sa Lincoln!" could be heard above the din, then
came "My country, 'tis of thee," "Hail Columbia," sung as only coloured
people can sing. The band on the _Blackstone_, which was anchored near,
played "The Star-Spangled Banner," and in the evening all the men-of-war
in the harbour were illuminated to celebrate the news of the victory.

The next morning all was bustle and activity, getting ready to go down
to the fort, and every available sailing craft was brought into service
to carry the people of Charleston to the ceremonies of the day. At
eleven o'clock we were assembled inside the walls of Sumter, as
distinguished a gathering as ever assembled since the signing of The
Declaration of Independence. High officers of the Army and Navy, United
States Senators, members of Congress, officers of the Government,
clergymen and distinguished citizens from all over the United States,
and a number from England.

At the hour of noon Major Anderson, who had been a long time in feeble
health, came upon the platform. Sergeant Hart took from a mail-pouch the
old flag and fastened it to the halyards. Major Anderson, taking hold of
the rope, said, "I thank God that I have lived to see this day and
perform probably the last act of duty of my life for my country." (He
died soon after.) As he slowly raised the flag over the ruined walls of
the fort, from Forts Moultrie, Ripley, Pickney, Putnam and Johnson,
Cummings Point and Battery B, and from every United States gunboat in
the harbour there broke forth a mighty salute. The thunder of the cannon
fairly shook the earth and the clouds of smoke enveloped the fort in
almost midnight darkness. When they rolled away Old Glory waved
peacefully as though it had never been fired upon by rebel cannon. The
audience sang "Victory at last."

Mr. Beecher came forward to the front of the platform to deliver the
oration. There was a cold wind blowing in from the sea, the wind playing
havoc with the leaves of his manuscript. As he commenced he took off
his hat, but immediately arose the cry, "Put on your hat, Mr. Beecher."
He obeyed and went on with his address, holding the close attention of
everyone for over an hour. It has taken its place in the history of
memorable addresses delivered on great occasions. The history of the
country will place it second to none among the most patriotic and able
orations.

The next two or three days were spent in and about Charleston, visiting
the scenes of desolation