February 15, 1861; The Charleston Mercury
That our readers may not fail to understand the views and policy of LINCOLN, as regards the Confederate States, we call attention to his remarks at Indianapolis. In his opinion, the United States, holding those forts which have not yet been captured, and retaking those which have been captured by the Confederate States, and the collection of duties in their harbors, is neither coercion or invasion, but a gentle exercise of legitimate power towards so many rebellious counties, to bring them to their senses. LINCOLN is a cool man; an able man; a determined man; a man not of words, but of action, who says what he means, and means what he says; an earnest man withal, and no politician. Our readers may come to their own conclusions.