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To his Excellency the Governor of South Carolina.
SIR - Two of your batteries fired this morning on an unarmed vessel bearing the flag of my Government. As I have not been notified that war has been declared by South Carolina against the United States, I can not but think this a hostile act committed without your sanction or authority. Under that hope I refrain from opening a fire on your batteries. I have the honor, therefore, respectfully to ask whether the above mentioned act — one which, I believe, is without parallel in the history of our country, or any other civilized government — was committed in obedience to your instructions, and notify you, if it is not disclaimed, that I regard it as an act of war. And I shall not, after reasonable time for the return of my messenger, permit any vessel to pass within the range of the guns of my fort.
In order to save, as far as it is in my power, the shedding of blood, I beg you will take due notification of my decision for the good of all concerned. Hoping, however, your answer may justify a further continuance of forbearance on my part, I remain, respectfully,
Fort Sumter, January 9, 1861.
More Resources
- Robert Anderson
- Source:
- Within Fort Sumter; or, A View of Major Anderson's Garrison Family for One Hundred and Ten Days, 1861
