History of the American Nation (Volume 4)

Book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1911. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER LVIII. 1861 LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION. The Inauguration.--Effect of the Inaugural.--Bombardment of Sumter.--The President's Call for Volunteers.--The Responses.--Riot in Baltimore.--The Spirit of Loyalty.-- Confederate Congress at Richmond.--Feeling in Missouri and Kentucky.--Advance into Virginia.--Col. Ellsworth's Death. -- Proclamations of Generals. -- Instructions to United States Ministers Abroad.--English Neutrality.-- Big Bethel Skirmish.--West Virginia's Loyalty.--Enemy Driven Out.--Battle of Bull Run.--The Effect.--Missouri. --Battle of Wilson's Creek.--Death of General Lyon.-- --Kentucky's Legislation.---Finances and the Army.-- Ball's Bluff Disaster.--Hatteras Expedition.--Mason and Slidell.--Battle of Belmont.--The Invasion of Kentucky. --Battle of Mill Spring.--Davis's Special Message.-- Meeting of Congress.--The Union Army.--Edwin M. Stanton.--Capture of Forts Henry and Donelson.--Confederate Retreat. The day of Mr. Lincoln's inauguration drew near; as it approached the painful suspense and anxiety of the people increased. Rumors were afloat of plots to prevent the new President from assuming office, and indeed of threatened injury to his person. The military were called out under the orders of General Scott; the first time in our history thought necessary to protect a Chief Magistrate from banded conspirators. In his inaugural the President announced that he should enforce the laws of the Union in accordance with his oath of office. The power confided to me will be used to hold, occupy and possess the property and places belonging to the government, and collect the duties and imposts. Alluding to the secessionists, he says: The government will not assail you; you can have no conflict without being yourselves the aggressors. His manner betokened a man cool a...