TREASURY DEPARTMENT, March 16, 1861.
Sir: The following question was submitted to my
consideration by your note of yesterday: "Assuming it to be possible
to now provision Fort Sumter, under all the circumstances is it wise
to attempt it?"
I have given to this question all the reflection which the
engrossing duties of this department have allowed. A correct solution
must depend, in my judgment, on the degree of possibility, on the
combination of reinforcement with provisioning, and on the probable
effects of the measure upon the relations of the disaffected States
to the National Government.
I shall assume, what the statements of the distinguished
officers consulted seem to warrant, that the possibility of success
mounts to a reasonable degree of probability, and also that the
attempt to provision is to include an attempt to reinforce, for it
seems to be generally agreed that provisioning without
reinforcements, notwithstanding hostile resistance, will accomplish
no substantially beneficial purpose.
The probable political effects of the measure allow room for
much fair difference of opinion; and I have not reached my own
conclusion without serious difficulty.
If the attempt will so inflame civil war as to involve an
immediate necessity for the enlistment of armies and the expenditure
of millions, I cannot advise it in the existing circumstances of the
country and in the present condition of the national finances.
But it seems to me highly improbable that the attempt,
especially if accompanied or immediately followed by a proclamation
setting forth a liberal and generous yet firm policy toward the
disaffected States, in harmony with the principles of the inaugural
address, will produce such consequences; while it cannot be doubted
that in maintaining a port belonging to the United States and in
supporting the officers and men engaged in the regular course of
service in its defense, the Federal Government exercises a clear
right and, under all ordinary circumstances, performs a plain
duty.
I return, therefore, an affirmative answer to the question
submitted to me.
And have the honor to be,
With the highest respect,
Your obedient servant,
S. P. CHASE.
