F. C. Humphreys to John Cunningham, December 29, 1860

q : December 29, 1860.

Sir: In the morning, after reporting yourself to Major-General Sehneirle, and informing him of this order, you are directed to get from him a detachment of select men, and in the most discreet and forbearing manner you will proceed to the U. 8. Arsenal in Charleston, and there demand, in my name, its entire possession, and state distinetly that you do this with a view to prevent any destruction of

: public property that may occur in the present excited state of the public mind, and also as due to the public safety. You will then proceed

to take, in the most systematic manner, a correct inventory of everything in said arsenal, and the exact state of all arms, Xc.

You will read this order to Captain Humphreys, who is the United States officer at the arsenal.

I do notapprehend any difficulty in giving up the same, but if refused, then you are to take it, using no more force than may be absolutely – necessary, and with the greatest discretion and liberality to Captain Humphreys, who is at perfect liberty to remain in his present quarters . as long as it may be agreeable for himself, and he is requested to do so. Report as soon as possible to me.

CHARLESTON ARSENAL, S. C., December 30, 1860. Sr: I am constrained to comply with your demand for the surrender of this arsenal, from the fact that I have no force for its defense. I do _ 80, however, solemnly protesting against the illegality of this measure h in the name of my Government. *

I also demand, as a right, that I be allowed to salute my flag, before lowering it, with one gun for each State now in the Union (32), and that my command be allowed to occupy the quarters assigned them until instructions can be obtained from the War Department.

Very respectfully,