[Editorial Note: The interval between Lincoln's election in November
1860 and his inauguration in March 1861 was filled with rumors
of first one state and then another deciding on, or against, secession.
The invention of the telegraph meant that these rumors appeared
in Northern newspapers, often in the sequence in which they were
received, almost as rapidly as they swept through the South. The
"underground line" referred both to the telegraph and
also to the "underground railway," as those who helped
fugitive slaves escape termed their efforts. Many in the North
were convinced that the "fire-eaters" in the Southern
states were bluffing and that the proper policy was to "call"
the bluff. This piece made fun of the credulity of those in the
North, such as the abolitionists, who both called for an immediate
end to slavery and believed the South would secede. How better
to mock the dangers they foresaw than to picture Southern women
and children in arms?]
. . . . . . . .
Charleston, Supper-time, February 20th. --All the babies in the
entire South are in arms, and many in this city are now employed
at the breastworks.
Two and one half Minutes Later. --Hundreds of the noblest women
of South Carolina are behind the breastworks, and they boldly
express their determination to remain there.
Later Still--Three Quarters of a Minute. --A number of young ladies
were in arms during the greater part of last evening, and many
more are extremely anxious to follow the self-sacrificing example
of their sisters. Shame on the young men!
One Quarter of a Minute Later. --We have learned from a reliable
source that the study of military tactics will be introduced into
the female schools of this State immediately, as the spirited
girls declare their willingness to take charge of South Carolina
'Infantry,' which is to be raised.
A report from the interior says the negroes wear drilling,[2] but it needs confirmation.
Still Later --Everybody is in a blaze of enthusiasm, and the gas
company has suspended in consequence.
[1]Clipping from Civil War Caricatures folder,
AAS; no date, no attribution.
[2]A pun: drilling is a kind of cotton fabric
used in work clothes.