Louis Weichmann

[Pamela]

I've posted here all the sources that I know of for the Weichmann spy scenario and it's so thin, it's transparent. Did even one clerk make statements about suspicious activity in the office involving Louis? Was anything reported as missing from the offices? Was any pilfered information traced back to Louis?

As for Weichmann continuing to live in the Surratt House even after he became aware of rebel and suspicious activity--there are many factors to be considered, including the reality of the war ending and his optimism that John would settle down to a sensible life, the horrible idea of reporting his friend and theology schoolmate to authorities based on suspicions, and an idea that was inconcievable for him at that time, which was Mary Surratt participating in a deadly conspiracy. Just for starters.

Does this sound like a man who would participate in spying?

Dear sir;

I received your kind and welcome letter only on Tuesday and I would have answered immediately has not some business with respect to you prevented me. I was surprised at the sudden resolution you have formed of quitting Texas by the first of May. Yet I do not blame you for leaving so lonely and deserted a place as the romantic village in which you are now at present stationed. I have made several applications by letter to some of my most influential acquaintances but up to this period I have not recieved any answer either favorable or unfavorable. I expect a reply in a few days. I also wrote to my friend Jno Surratt about the position of which he spoke when in Texas. As soon as he gives me an answer I shall inform you of the result.

Do not be disheartened, dear friend, cheer up; better times are coming. After rain comes sunshine, after storm comes a calm. You do not know what is in reserve for you.

Rest assured that I shall do all that is in my power. I have no doubt that if you come to Washington you will by your exertions eventually obtain some position. I am sure of it. You must also excuse me for not writing in French; my mind this morning is not sufficiently settled. I promise you however, that the next one shall not fail to meet your your expectations. Let me know, if you please, whether you intend to come to Washington as soon as you leave Texas. I shall certainly be very happy to receive you. In the meantime have courage; all things will be right bye and bye. Wishing you as all my friends in Texas, the complements of the season.

I am
Truly yours
Lewis J. Wiechmann
PS Excuse my haste as I am on the point of commencing school.
dated April 23 1863 and postmarked April 26, Washington, to Henri B. de Steve Marie