The Abraham Lincoln Papers at the Library of Congress
W. H. West to Abraham Lincoln, Wednesday, April 03, 1861 (Fort Sumter)
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Abraham Lincoln Papers at the Library of Congress. Transcribed and Annotated by the Lincoln Studies Center, Knox College. Galesburg, Illinois.
W. H. West to Abraham Lincoln, Wednesday, April 03, 1861 (Fort Sumter)
From W. H. West to Abraham Lincoln, April 3, 1861
Bellefontaine Ohio
April 3. 1861--
Sir--
The reinforcement of Fort Sumpter under existing circumstances, would secure to you an immortality of fame, which Washington might envy-- The Surrender of Fort Pickens under any circumstances, will consign your name, and fame, to an ignominy, in comparison with which that of your immediate predecessor, will be tolerable, and Arnolds illustrious.
I but reflect the universal sentiment when I say, the loyal people of the North West would tolerate any stretch of power on your part, & prefer to see you, "wade through Slaughter to a throne" rather than have our country humiliated, and it glorious flag dishonored by a voluntary Surrender. Pardon this obtrusion but Save us from Shame-- Yours Truly--
W H West
A Chicago Delegate