The New York Crowd

[SSlater]

Thanks everybody. I think that each posting contributed something to this topic. I have not had time to read further on the references, but they are GOOD leads. Over the years, I have read some comments on this subject, but because I was just not interested, I never made notes. Now, I need to go back and find pertinent material. I will cite every quote that we use. For example: I recall reading that Jacob Thompson withdrew considerable funds and placed them with someone. (What a useless sentence!), to be paid to the assassin, when the job was completed. Perhaps, the Southern Government created a "competition", and was willing to pay the first party, who accomplishes the task. (To the Merchants, this could be ANOTHER source of income). I have a "Life of Jacob Thompson", I'll bet that is where I read about his "Fund". This is a thick volume, so that will take time. Right now, I am pressed for time. We have a sick Mama in the hospital, so I have little time for my hobby.
I agree with Roger's "hazy" brain situation. I also grew up wondering why anyone would want to shoot Lincoln. He was so perfect. I also agree with the April 14 execution was all Booth's plan. That was in the terms of the reward. However, this does not preclude other plans waiting in the wings.
Jerrod. I am always cautious when I read something that Sanders says. I do not neglect him, because sometime he does tell the truth. (As a sarcastic aside: what name was he using when he read the letter from Davis?) I will include this Crew, in future research. I wonder if Sanders really got a letter from Davis? I am not questioning you, only what you read - In mid Feb '65, I would guess that Booth was still thinking Abduction. Wasn't the plan to use Lincoln as a Pawn, to get the prisoners released? He'd be no good dead. Let me point out a contradiction that we all need to work on. If Sanders meeting was in mid-Feb, then Booth's thinking could not have included Beall's death - he wasn't hanged until 24 Feb. 1865.
Gene C. Hatred of Lincoln's Reconstruction Plans, is a third Plan that bears investigation in this study. That is sufficient reason for QUICK.
Please, everybody, contribute to this study. Don't let it become a "Neff Theory". If we can PROVE something - wonderful. If we can't - then so be it. But, I feel we are already doing a good job, even if it dies an unproven theory.