Extraordinary Naval and Military Preparations
There is no doubt of the fact that Lincoln is fitting out a large force at New York and Boston, and they are about to embark immediately for the South, and that events of fearful moment will soon transpire. These facts were clearly foreshadowed to our dispatches published last Saturday. The New York Times of Friday announces that Lincoln and his Cabinet have adopted a "line of policy" which will speedily test the strength of the government, and its ability to enforce the laws.
It then adds:
"In less that a week--our correspondent telegraphs--it is probable that every port of importance South of Charleston, through which inland communications can be had will be blockaded and that the revenue laws will be enforced if the navy is strong enough to do it.
Elsewhere on the same page:
The News
For the last five days the papers from the East, North, and South have been filled with articles and telegraphic reports indicating that the administration has at last determined upon action, and that war between the Federal Government and the Seceded States will soon be inaugurated. . . . There is no doubt that some movement has been agreed upon, and that a large number of United States troops and munitions have been shipped from New York, but all is speculation as to their destination or for what object.