defensive work in the harbor of Charleston, S. C. Major Anderson had long urged his government, but in vain, to strengthen the military works in Charleston Harbor. The burden of the few replies was: "Be prudent; be kind; do nothing to excite the South Carolinians. It will not do to send you reinforcements, for that might bring on hostilities." At length he was satisfied that the people were about to attempt to seize Fort Sumter.