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Appendix to Chapter III.
Captain Fox to Lieutenant-General Scott.General Scott to Captain Fox.Sir,—The proposition which I have had the honor to submit to you fully, in person, is herewith presented in writing. Lieutenant Hall and myself have had several free conferences; and if he is permitted by the South Carolina authorities to re-enter Fort Sumter, Major Anderson will comprehend the plan for his relief. I consider myself very fortunate in having proposed a project which meets the approval of the general-in-chief; and I ask no reward but the entire conduct of the post, exclusive of the armed vessels. The commander of these should be ordered to co-operate with me, by affording me protection and destroying their naval preparations near the bar, leaving to me, as the author of the plan, the actual operations of relief. I suggest that the Pawnee be immediately sent to the Delaware Breakwater to await orders, the Harriet Lane to be ready for sea, and some arrangement entered into by which the requisite steamer and tugs should be engaged—at least, so far as not to excite suspicion. I should prefer one of the Collins steamers. They are now being prepared for sea, and are of such a size and power as to be able, fearlessly, to run down any vessel which might attempt to capture us outside by coup de main. I could quietly engage one, and have her ready to start on twenty-four hours notice, without exciting suspicion. I shall leave for New York at 3 P. M., and any communication will find me at Judge Blair's. If the Pawnee's pivot-gun is landed, it should certainly be remounted. Very respectfully, etc.,
Secretary Cameron's Instructions to Captain Fox.Headquarters of the army, Washington, March 19th, 1861.Dear Sir,—In accordance with the request contained in a note of the Secretary of War to me, of which I annex a copy, I request that you will have the goodness to proceed to Charleston, S. C., and obtain permission, if necessary, to visit Fort Sumter, in order to enable you to comply with the wish expressed in the secretary's note. Very respectfully, etc.,
War Department, Washington, April 6th, 1861.Sir,—It having been decided to succor Fort Sumter, you have been selected for this important duty. Accordingly, you will take charge of the transports in New York, having the troops and supplies on board, to the port of Charleston harbor, and endeavor, in the first instance, to deliver the subsistence. If you are opposed in this, you are directed to report the fact to the senior naval officer of the harbor, who will be instructed by the Secretary of the Navy to use his entire force to open a passage, when you will, if possible, effect an entrance, and place both the troops and supplies in Fort Sumter. I am, sir, etc.,
Simon Cameron, Sec. of War.
