April 11, 1861; The New York Herald
The News from Washington.
WASHINGTON, April 10, 1861.
This city has been the scene of the wildest excitement throughout the entire day, troops marching, drums beating, and flags flying the entire length of Pennsylvania avenue.
Ten companies, or about one fourth of the volunteer militia of the District of Columbia, are mustering today for inspection, the order having been issued from the government headquarters last night. Several days ago the company officers were directed to immediately report the number of effective men. This unexpected movement has given rise to many surmises, especially as reports prevail, believed to be correct, that these ten companies are to be drafted into immediate service.
There is no doubt that the military movements here in progress are connected with precautionary measurers for the defence of the capital from an apprehended attack from the South.
The fear of an attack from an invading army from Virginia and Maryland, under command of that celebrated Texas ranger, Ben McCollough, is the cause of all these movements.
President Lincoln says he has positive knowledge in his possession that an attack on this city is in contemplation. He has communicated this information, not only to Gen. Scott, but to several of the Governors of Northern and Western States.
It is understood that he desires them to call out the militia, and to hold them in readiness at a moment’s warning. Mr. Lincoln is evidently alarmed. He says that when the bail is once opened this city will be the first that will be attacked. He has been notified, in anonymous letters that he will have to leave here and take refuge in some Northern city. He has no idea of doing any such thing. He says he will remain here, even if he has to be protected and surrounded by the military arm of the government.