No. 58.
Fort Sumter, S. C.
Feby 28th, 1861.
Colonel:
I have the honor to report that they are continuing the work reported
in my communication No 57. I send, herewith, Memoranda, hastily prepared, by
the officers of this command, giving their individual opinions as to the number
of men which would be required to re-enforce us. The problem is one of
considerable difficulty – as the Southern Confederacy have the advantage of
knowing the intentions, even, of our Government, and are thus enabled to make
suitable preparations- These gentlemen were directed to consider the harbour
closed – it is fair to consider that all of the channels would be closed as
soon as information is received of the intentions of the Government.
I confess that I would not be willing to risk my reputation on an
attempt to throw reenforcements into this harbour, within the time for our
relief rendered necessary by the limited supply of our provisions, and with a
view of holding possession of the same, with a force of less than twenty
thousand good and well disciplined men.
Enclosed is also a sketch of the present appearance of the works on
Cummings Point, prepared by Capt Seymour.
I am Colonel,
Very Respectfully,
Your obdt Svt.
Robert Anderson
Major 1st Artillery, Commanding.
SOURCE: Abraham Lincoln Papers
at the Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.
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