The most active military preparations are still going on at Charleston, notwithstanding the statement which has been made repeatedly, and which bears some appearance of truthfulness, that Fort Sumter will be evacuated. Gen. Beauregard has made a thorough examination of the coast for fifteen or twenty miles on all sides of the city. He and Gov. Pickens have determined to erect fortifications at Stono Point. Two large Dahlgren guns have been placed in full battery low down on Morris island, commanding the main ship channel.—Thirty three hundred and sixty kegs of powder have been ordered by Gov. Pickens, in addition to the present supply, much of which is probably by this time at Charleston. Also two ten-inch mortars, four hundred nine-inch shells, and a large amount of shot and other munitions of war. The coast is guarded at every accessible point; and the most vigilant precaution is taken to prevent a reinforcement of Sumter by surprise.
The Courier, to which we are indebted for these items, authenticates the assertion that the Fort will be evacuated. It will not be surrendered; but left in the hands of a “corporal’s guard” in all probability. Of course, the corporal’s guard will give it up on demand.
The Floating Battery has been completed; and a salute of seven guns fired from its port holes in honor of the seven seceded States and the Southern Confederacy. It is bomb-proof ; and carries, we believe, nineteen pieces of heavy ordnance.
The Mercury states that the People’s Bank has offered for $200,000, and the Bank of Chester for $100,000, of the $15,000,000 loan of the Confederate States.
Green Peas for a month past, have been a luxury of some Charleston tables.
Yorkville Enquirer, Yorkville, SC