[DiogenesLamp]

In short, DiogenesLamp is correct in that Chase did not equate secession with treason. But he is as wrong as he could possibly be by implying that meant Chase thought the Confederate secession was legal.

Then what are we to make of his "Lincoln wanted Davis to escape, and he was right. His capture was a mistake. His trial will be a greater one." Point?

Such a statement doesn't make sense in your explanation.

[DoodleDawg]

Then what are we to make of his "Lincoln wanted Davis to escape, and he was right. His capture was a mistake. His trial will be a greater one."

Without seeing the quote in context it's hard to tell. What is Foote's source?