And, in support of this impression, we would add that
we have the positive assurance of gentlemen of the highest possible
public reputation and the most unsullied integrity--men whose name and
fame, secured by long service and patriotic achievement, place their
testimony beyond cavil--that such suggestions had been made to and urged
upon you by them, and had formed the subject of more than one earnest
discussion with you. And it was this knowledge that induced us to urge
upon you a policy which had to recommend it its own wisdom and the
weight of such authority. As to the second point, that the authorities
of South Carolina, instead of asking explanations, and giving you the
opportunity to vindicate yourself, took possession of other property of
the United States, we would observe, first, that, even if this were so,
it does not avail you for defense, for the opportunity for decision was
afforded you before these facts occurred. We arrived in Washington on
Wednesday. The news from Major Anderson reached here early on Thursday,
and was immediately communicated to you. All that day, men of the
highest consideration--men who had striven successfully to lift you to
your great office--who had been your tried and true friends through the
troubles of your Administration--sought you and entreated you to act--to
act at once. They told you that every hour complicated your position.
They only asked you to give the assurance that, if the facts were so--if
the commander had acted without and against your orders, and in
violation of your pledges--you would restore the _status_ you had
pledged your honor to maintain.
Pages:
936
937
938
939
940
941
942
943
944
945
946
947
948
949
950
951
952
953
954
955
956
957
958
959
960