HUNTSVILLE, ALA.,
February 3, 1861.
Hon. L. P. WALKER, Montgomery:
MY DEAR SIR: There is at Pensacola an immense quantity of powder, shot, and shells, which ought to be removed to the interior at the earliest possible moment. Where they now are they are constantly exposed to the danger of recapture, and if they are permitted to remain, one of Lincoln’s first movements will be to concentrate a sufficient force at that point to retake them.
In my judgment there is no hope of a peaceful settlement of our difficulties with the Government of the United States, and all our calculations should be made with reference to the breaking out of a war of vast magnitude and almost unparalleled ferocity. We had the subject of these munitions before the military committee of our Convention, but as they were on the soil of Florida, and beyond our jurisdiction, we could do nothing. Your convention will have more extensive powers.
There is still much discontent here at the passage of the ordinance of secession, but it is growing weaker daily, and unless something is done to stir it up anew will soon die away.
Last week Yancey was burned in effigy in Limestone, but I suppose it was rather a frolic of the “b’hoys” than a manifestation of serious feeling on the part of the older citizens.
I shall be glad to hear from you from time to time during the session of the Convention.
Very truly and respectfully, your friend and obedient servant,
JERE. CLEMENS.