From the War Department, April 4, 1861.
"SIR: Your letter of the 1st instant occasions some anxiety to the President.
"On the information of Captain Fox he had supposed you could hold out till the 15th instant without any great inconvenience; and had prepared an expedition to relieve you before that period.
"Hoping still that you will be able to sustain yourself till the 11th or 12th instant, the expedition will go forward; and, finding your flag flying, will attempt to provision you, and, in case the effort is resisted, will endeavor also to re-enforce you.
"You will therefore hold out, if possible, till the arrival of the expedition."
Secretary of War Simon Cameron went on to say that the President expected Anderson to do his duty to the best of his ability, but, "in your judgement, to save yourself and command, a capitulation becomes a necessity, you are authorized to make it."
Getting tense Out There in Charleston Harbor. -- Old B-R'er
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