Decision of Judge Leavitt, of Ohio, in the Vallandigham habeas corpus case

Octavo (8 3/4 X 5 3/4 inches) Philadelphia: Printed For Gratuitous Distribution, 1863. Original First Edition. 16 page sewn paper pamphlet in wrappers, minor discoloration to edges of covers, old $2 price, and old library call numbers written in pencil on top of front cover, old 15 cent price, and calculation figures not related to text written in pencil on back cover, contents clean and unaffected.

In this pamphlet, Judge Leavitt states his reasons (based on historical fact and the Constitution) for his ruling that denied a writ of habeas corpus for the defendant C. L. Vallandigham; leader of the "Peace Democrats," and Supreme Commander of the "Sons of Liberty."

The accused was charged with "mischievous disloyalty" in his opinions and statements; and subsequently arrested at the orders of General Burnside. Lincoln became involved when, in May of 1863, he wrote to Stanton stating that suspension of habeas corpus, as Stanton wanted, would not be necessary in this case.

Lincoln is not referred to in this decision by name, but several references to the "President" are made, including his suspension of habeas corpus in 1861. Judge Leavitt upheld the arrest, denied the writ, and Vallandigham was sentenced to prison.

Lincoln eventually overruled the decision, and banished Vallandigham to the Confederacy.