RICHMOND, Va., April 17, 1861.
His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS,
President of the Confederate States of America:
I came here last night. You may rely now that Virginia will secede, and promptly. Vessels sunk last night in the harbor at Norfolk to cut off the navy-yard, and troops ordered there to sustain the movement. Harper’s Ferry Arsenal to be seized at once. You shall hear as things advance. If you have anything to reply, telegraph to me here.
J.M. MASON
Sources
The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies. Series I, Vol. LI, Part II. Washington: Government Printing Office, 1897.
Spirit of '61 