Charleston Mercury
April 18, 1861
(From Our Own Correspondent.)
WASHINGTON, April 17.—The National Intelligencer of this morning throws off the mask, and comes out boldly in favor of coercion.
The streets are lined with the military—regulars and volunteers—and squads are seen everywhere anxiously discussing the probable action of Virginia. It is the impression here that had the Border States seceded promptly after the organization of the Confederate States Government there would have been no collision. As it is, the preparations for subjugating the South are pushed steadily forward, although many of the leading Republicans seem startled at the first results of their own policy.
Sympathy for the Southern movement is fast on the increase in this District, and the Administration scarcely knows whom to trust.
It is currently stated, although the rumor lacks confirmation, that the Government will shortly call for a levy of 150,000 additional troops from the States. Of course they must all be got from the North. The army Engineers in the Arsenal, which commands the approach to this city by the Potomac river, are busily engaged devising plans and choosing their positions for the defence of the city from the dreaded attack by the Southern troops.
THE LATEST.
WASHINGTON, April 17—9 1/2 p.m.—The Administration is exultant over the war feeling in the North, and LINCOLN says, bluntly, that the South shall have war just as long as the Free States will furnish the men and money.
Gen. SCOTT proposes to concentrate 35,000 men at this point; 25,000 at St. Louis; 5000 in Western Texas; 25,000 at Fort Pickens; and 1000 to cruise off the coast of the Carolinas. It is generally believed that his suggestions will be acted on.
The most feverish anxiety is manifested to hear news from Richmond. LINCOLN fully anticipates the secession of the Old Dominion, and fears that from that quarter the thunder and the lightning may come together.
The necessary orders will be issued tomorrow to throw heavy reinforcements in Fort McHenry, near Baltimore. This move, it is hoped, will keep Maryland quiet.