Kerosene torches flickered beyond, flanking a poster on which was printed in big black letters: "WASHINGTON, April 13, 1861, 6 A.M.
"At half-past four o'clock this morning fire was opened on Fort Sumter by the rebel batteries in the harbour.

Major Anderson is replying with his barbette guns." "8 A.M.
"A private despatch to the N.Y.Herald says that the batteries on Mount Pleasant have opened on Sumter.

Major Anderson has brought into action two tiers of guns trained on Fort Moultrie and the Iron Battery." "3 P.M.
"The fire at this hour is very heavy.

Nineteen batteries are bombarding Sumter.

The fort replies briskly.