In the mechanical and artistic execution of the work, the publisher has evinced an enthusiasm which corresponds nobly with the great subject of the history, and has been even lavish in pictorial embellishments. These have been all drawn and engraved expressly for this work, at great cost; and in the truthfulness and beauty of their execution, add to the high reputation already attained by the artists, Messrs. WATERS and SON. NEW YORK, _October 1, 1862_. ANN S. STEPHENS. CONTENTS. PAGE Introduction 7 Inauguration of President Lincoln 17 The coming tempest—The national forbearance—Mustering of rebel troops—Efforts for conciliation—The Border States—South Carolina—Investment of Fort Sumter—The Star of the West—Gen. Beauregard. Fortifications in Charleston Harbor 25 The iron floating battery—Cummings Point battery—Castle Pinckney. Bombardment of Fort Sumter 28 Storming of Fort Sumter, viewed from the land—Naval expedition for the relief of Fort Sumter. The Nation’s Response 40 Startling effect of the news of the attack on Sumter—The President’s Proclamation—Departure of troops for Washington—Enthusiasm of the people—Their devotion to the national Union—Large contributions to aid the Government. Reinforcement of Fort Pickens 46 The harbor of Pensacola—Forts McRae and Barrancas—Description of Fort Pickens—Its investment by rebel troops under Gen. Bragg—The Federal fleet in the harbor—Successful landing of troops and supplies. Burning of Harper’s Ferry Arsenal 49 Through Baltimore 50 Arrival of the Massachusetts Sixth, Col. Jones, in Baltimore—Blockade of the streets—Attack by the mob—Defence of the military—Terrible results—The regimental band—The city authorities—Intense excitement of the citizens—Pennsylvania troops—Mayor Brown and Marshal Kane. Military Occupation of Annapolis, Md. 61 The Eighth Massachusetts and the Seventh New York—Gen. Butler—Gov. Hicks—the frigate Constitution—the Naval Academy—March to the Junction. Maryland 66 Efforts of secessionists to involve the State in rebellion—Patriotic devotion of loyal citizens—Gov. Hicks—The State Legislature—Gen. Butler in Maryland—Gen. Cadwallader—The _habeas corpus_ act—Chief-Justice Taney.