New York Herald
April 19, 1861
WASHINGTON, April 18, 1861.
The question of peace or war, so far as Virginia is concerned, is settled. Gov. Letcher’s reply to the President proclamation is full of war spirit. He emphatically refuses to respond, and defies the government of the United States. He says Virginia accepts the issue of war.
A gentleman, who has just arrived, states that the secession ordinance was passed two days ago. The seven men who voted against it were driven out of the city, and barely escaped with their lives.
The government has just received reliable intelligence that a large force, under command of Governor Wise, was about to start for Washington. The War Department has no doubt of its authenticity. The most active preparations are being made to bring all the force now here into active operation.
At two o’clock this morning the booming of cannon was distinctly heard in this city. What it was, or where it was, is not now known.