April 6, 1861 – Charleston Affairs

The South Carolinians are evidently tiring of the vascillating policy of the Administration, and we expect to hear of some determined action on their part in a few days, if we are to judge from the following paragraphs, taken from the papers of Charleston of Thursday:

It is said now that the last mortar is in its place, and that the ammunition and supplies are all in our possession, so that every means for the speedy reduction of Fort Sumter may be said to be entirely accomplished. There is no possibility of supplies or reinforcements being thrown in from the sea, for there is not the power in the United Stales Navy to do it, and of course the reduction of Fort Sumter is only a matter of time.

There is one thing clear, that if the Government resorts to force and a sectional war, there must be a very strong and powerful party at the North opposed to them. This party constitutes the commercial cities and monied men and those interested in the industrial pursuits of that section. This division being made at the North, compels the Government, in an issue of force, to rely exclusively upon the Black Republican party for the supply of men and money. Whereas, on the contrary, the Confederate States will present one united and unbroken front, with no division, but all ready to defend their homes and their altars – In such an issue, there can be no doubt as to the final result. In addition to this, if there be an appeal to force, it will at once throw the Border States of the Southern country against the Black Republican party and the Government. In such a struggle as this, the total overthrow of the Government at Washington is inevitable, and confusion and revolution will be inaugurated in the Northern States, that must end in their entire and final destruction.— Courier.

A CHANGE OF POLICY.

We understand the liberal supplies heretofore permitted to Major Anderson will shortly be cut off. Yesterday a despatch was received from the Commissioners to Washington, advising a change of policy. In their opinion, no more roast beef—no more barrels of potatoes—in short, no more supplies of any description, should be suffered to reach Fort Sumter. A decision has been reached here. Fort Sumter must shortly provision itself. To-morrow the garrison must fall back upon its own stores. Its licensed intercourse with the city must cease. But there is something more to be mentioned. A despatch has been sent to President Davis, in which immediate action is not indirectly hinted at. No reply has yet been received, but a telegraph reply is hardly to be looked for. The mail will undoubtedly bring an answer. Our citizens, we are aware, are excited in regard to these matters. Patience with them, however, has be come a cardinal virtue. Let them exercise it.—Mercury.

The Courier also has an article of similar import upon the subject. It gives in addition the following significant paragraphs:

We learn that Governor Pickens and General Beauregard go to-day to visit and inspect all the batteries for the last time, and to arrange matters for decided action, as all the batteries are now thoroughly ready. They go in a private conveyance and alone.

The Daily Exchange, Baltimore, MD

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