MY DEAR ANDREW,--Last evening I was greeted by the first instalment of the commissioners. The rest I expect this morning. Be assured, I shall do all that I can for their comfort and information. I am relieved to know that there is not a single weak joint in them.… I pray constantly for courage at home. Let Massachusetts be true and firm, and keep our friends from division. The news from Virginia continues to reveal the same tendency,--secession, unless constitutional guaranties are secured for Slavery. Without some change, contrary to all legislative and other declarations, Virginia must go out. I hope that our Legislature will not pause in offering its guaranty to the bonds of the National Government. It ought to be done at once. Did I ever tell you how much I enjoyed and admired your old musket speech? It was well conceived and admirably done. I am glad that Theodore Parker’s name is enrolled in the Capitol. I find your commissioners noble, true, good characters, able to support Massachusetts. God bless you! Ever yours, CHARLES SUMNER. * * * * * WASHINGTON, February 10, 1861. DEAR ANDREW,--It is much to be regretted that our State has hesitated so long in giving its indorsement to the United States bonds. Let us give Government the means of procuring money at once, and put her credit on its legs. There is tranquillity now. The Peace Conference has not reached any point. It is evident that Virginia and the other Border States will have to decide the question, Which to choose, Union or Slavery? If they remain, it must be in subjection to the Constitution and the antislavery policy of the Fathers. I do not tremble at anything from our opponents, whoever they may be, but from our friends. The New York commissioners, the majority, are stiff and strong. Every word of concession thus far has done infinite mischief,--first, by encouraging the Slave-Masters, and, secondly, by demoralizing our own friends, and filling them with doubt and distrust. God bless you! Ever yours, CHARLES SUMNER. * * * * * SENATE CHAMBER, February 20, 1861. MY DEAR ANDREW,--I lost no time in seeing the Attorney-General and placing your letter in his hands. At the same time I pressed the pardon. He will give the subject his best attention, but I thought he was rather fixed against it. Nothing has occurred to change my view of our affairs. It seems to me that Virginia will secede. At all events, if you expect this result, you will be best prepared for the future.