It was inspired by Francis Blair's plan to launch an attack against the French, a scheme which was supposed to help create a "continental regulator.
When one member of this gathering cited the example of Charles I, another quipped that "he lost his head," to the dismay of Robert Hunter.  Major Thomas Eckert, the head of the Telegraph Office, was sent out to meet one party at City Point before it took place.  It was inspired by Francis Blair's plan to launch an attack against the French, a scheme which was supposed to help create a "continental regulator." The proposal included a refusal to recognize future treaties and an offer of $400 million to a certain group. This meeting took place aboard the "River Queen," where Alexander Stephens was forced to refuse a proposal of emancipation and reunion, since he was only authorized to accept independence. FTP, name this February 1865 peace conference meant to end the Civil War.
When one member of this gathering cited the example of Charles I, another quipped that "he lost his head," to the dismay of Robert Hunter.  
Hampton Roads Peace Conference