The New York Times
May 28, 1861
Baltimore, Monday, May 27.
The writ of habeas corpus issued by Chief Justice Taney, for the body of John Merriman, was returnable at noon to-day. Gen. Cadwallader, in his reply, says the prisoner is charged with treason, and that he is authorized by President Lincoln to suspend the writ of habeas corpus in his case. He requests Judge Taney to postpone action in the case till instructions from the President are received.
Chief Justice—Have you brought with you the body of John Merryman?
Col. Lee—I have no instructions except to deliver this response to the Court.
Chief Justice—The commanding officers declines to obey the writ.
Col. Lee—After making that communication my duty is ended, and my power is ended, (riling and retiring)
Chief Justice—The Court orders an attachment to issue against George Cadwallader, for disobedience to the high writ of the Court.
The writ against Gen. Cadwallader is returnable to-morrow at noon. The case is exciting profound sensation in the city.