Pursuing Powell event from Seward House Museum

[Dennis Urban]

There is no evidence that the CS Richmond government knew of Booth's plans, however the same cannot be said for the CS Canadian "cabinet". Booth met with them several times in Montreal and they provided him with letters of introduction to Dr. Samuel Mudd and Dr. Richard Stuart as well as some funds to finance the operation. The CS Canadian folks were probably aware of the kidnap plot but not that it developed into a murder plot.

On the other hand, Powell and Booth met many times and had many conversations. Powell was an essential player in the kidnap plot, providing the "muscle". I believe Powell was referring to the many others in southern Maryland and King George, VA who would assist in moving the kidnapped President along to Richmond; namely folks like those mentioned above plus Harbin, Jones, the Cox father and son, Mrs. Quisenberry and others. Stanton got the principals he wanted and let the rest walk.