Following the American Civil War Sesquicentennial with day by day writings of the time, currently 1863.

Post image for Intent to retake S. C. Forts if surrendered

Intent to retake S. C. Forts if surrendered

December 24, 2010

The American Civil War,Uncollected Letters of Abraham Lincoln © 1917

To Lyman Trumbull

SPRINGFIELD, ILLS. Dec. 24, 1860

Hon. Lyman Trumbull—

My dear Sir. I expect to be able to offer Mr. Blair a place in the cabinet; but I can not, as yet, be committed on the matter, to any extent whatever.

Despatches have come here two days in succession, that the Forts in South Carolina will be surrendered by the order, or consent at least, of the President.

I can scarcely believe this; but if it prove true, I will, if our friends at Washington concur, announce publicly at once that they are to be retaken after the inauguration. This will give the Union Men a rallying cry, and preparation will proceed somewhat on their side, as well as on the other.

Yours as ever

A. LINCOLN.

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