January 16, 1861, The New York Herald
Our Washington despatches reveal the object of the mission of Colonel Hayne, the envoy of South Carolina to Washington. It is to demand of the federal government the surrender of Fort Sumter. The South Carolina authorities notified Major Anderson of their determination to capture the fort if it was not given up, and the Major in reply stated that he had no alternative but to defend it. He, however, agreed to refer the subject for decision to his superiors. It is stated that the president will not yield to the proposition of Colonel Hayne. There appears to be no doubt that if the fort is not surrendered the South Carolinians will attack it.
In Congress yesterday the Senate was engaged in discussing the Pacific Railroad, having, by a large majority, refused to postpone its consideration in order to take up the Crittenden resolutions. In the House Mr. Reagan, of Texas; Stanton, of Ohio; and others, discussed the perilous condition of the country.
The proceedings of the Legislature yesterday were important, but we have no space for a more extended reference to them. Full details are given in our despatches and reports.
An enthusiastic demonstration of the working men of New York City against coercing the Southern States was held in Broome street last night. The attendance was very large, and the sentiments expressed and resolutions passed were of the most decided character. The meeting was addressed by several well known gentlemen. We supply a report of the proceedings elsewhere in this day’s paper.
A spontaneous Union demonstration took place at the Oliver street Baptist church last evening. The occasion was the Sunday School anniversary, and Mr. Lucius Hart was the speaker. An account will be found elsewhere.