Council Chamber, Executive Mansion,
December 27th, 1860.
Sir:—It is
evident now, from the action of the commander at Fort Moultrie, that the solemn
pledges of this Government have been violated by Major Anderson. In my
judgment, but one remedy is now left us by which to vindicate our honor and
prevent civil war. It is in vain now to hope for confidence on the part of the
people of South Carolina in any further pledges as to the action of the
military. One remedy only is left, and that is to withdraw the garrison from
the harbor of Charleston altogether. I hope the President will allow me to make
that order at once. This order, in my judgment, can alone prevent bloodshed and
civil war.
john B. Floyd,
Secretary of War.
To The President.
SOURCE: John Bassett Moore, Editor, The Works of James Buchanan, Volume 12, p. 167
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