March 21, 1861; The New York Herald
Our despatches from Washington this morning reiterate the assurance that both the Lincoln administration and the government at Montgomery are disposed to preserve the peace. It is stated that the Commissioners from the Confederate States have the positive assurance from the administration that no movement of troops, or reinforcement of forts in the seceded States will be permitted for the present. On the other hand, the Montgomery government will do nothing to disturb the existing condition of affairs.
The two indictments against Mr. Floyd, late Secretary of War, for conspiring to defraud the government, and for malfeasance in office, were yesterday dismissed by the Court at Washington as untenable.
In the United States Senate yesterday, Mr. Hale offered a resolution, which lies over, that the Senate adjourn without day at one o’clock on Saturday next. The consideration of Mr. Douglass’ resolution in relation to southern forts, &c., was then resumed, and Mr. Bayard, of Delaware, made a speech on the troubles of the nation. He considered a reconstruction of the Union impossible, and there remained but one of two courses to pursue, namely, war, with a view to subjugation, or the recognition of the independence of the Southern republic. He indicated a proposition which he should offer, investing the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, with power to accept the declaration of the seceded States, that they are an alien people, and authorizing him to conclude with them a treaty acknowledging their independence as a separate nation. At the conclusion of Mr. Bayard’s remarks the Senate held an executive session, and confirmed a number of appointments.