March 16, 1861; The Charleston Mercury
A rumor was current yesterday that Mr. FORSYTH had sent despatches to the Governor, positively assuring him that the garrison would be withdrawn from Fort Sumter. This is incorrect. In his despatch, Mr. FORSYTH merely gave it as his impression that LINCOLN would pursue the course indicated.
Per contra, the following indicated despatch, from a reliable source in Washington, was received yesterday.
“Great efforts are being made to reconsider the withdrawal of the troops from Fort Sumter. I think they will fail. A final consultation is to be held tomorrow.”
So that the matter is still in doubt.