Lorenzo Thomas to Winfield Scort, January 4, 1861

Lieut. Gen. WINFIELD Scort, Washington, D. C.:

DEAR GENERAL: I had an interview with Mr. Schultz at 8 o’elock last evening, and found him to Be, as you supposed, the commission, and together we visited Mr. M. O. Roberts. The latter looks exelusively to the dollars, whilst Mr. S. is acting for the good of his country. Mr. R. B. required $1,500 per day for ten days, besides the cost of 300 tons ‘ of coal, which I declined ; but, after a long conversation, I became satisfied that the movement could be made with his vessel, the Star of the West, without exciting suspicion. I finally chartered her at $1,250 per day. She is running on the New Orleans route, and will clear for that port; but no notice will be put in the, ‘papers, and persons seeing the ship moving from the dock will suppose she is on her regular tri Major Eaton, commissary of subsistence, fully enters into my views. He will see Mr. Roberts, hand him a list of the supplies with the places where they may be procured, and the purchases will be made on the ship’s account. In this way no public machinery will be used. ,

*Nos. 2 and 3 not found.

Onar-T]_ “CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.—UNION.

To-night I pass over to Governor’s Island to do what is necessary, i. é., have 300 stand of arms and ammunition on the wharf, and 200 men ready to march on board Mr. Schultz’s steam-tugs about nightfall tomorrow, to go to the steamer, passing very slowly down the bay. I shall cut off all communication between the island and the cities until Tues_ day morning, when I expect the steamer will be safely moored at Fort Sumter. I have seen and conversed with Colonel Scott, and also saw your _ daughter at your house. After leaving you, I obtained the key of the – outer door of the office, but could nowhere find the key of your door or of mine, so failed to get the chart. This is of little moment, as the captain of the steamer is perfectly familiar with the entrance of Charleston. I telegraphed you this morning, as follows :

Arrangements made as proposed; to leave to-morrow evening; send map.

I will now leave the office, where I am writing, to proceed to the island.

Very sincerely, General,

your obedient servant, —