Note Asking Cabinet Opinions On Fort Sumter

Executive Mansion, March 15, 1861

THE HONORABLE SECRETARY OF WAR.

MY DEAR SIR:—Assuming it to be possible to now provision Fort Sumter, under all the circumstances is it wise to attempt it? Please give me your opinion in writing on this question.

Your obedient servant,
A. LINCOLN.

[Same to other members of the Cabinet.]