1. In firing upon Fort Sumter.
2. In believing there would be a divided North and an apathetic Federal Government.
3. In believing that they would have the hearty sympathies of Europe. [11]
4. In believing that the bonds of their Confederacy would be readily taken in Europe.
5. In believing that the military power of the North would be directed in a crusade against slavery rather than employed for the overthrow of treason, and the establishment of the Union and the Constitution.
6. In believing that Northern courage and physique were no match for Southern, or that in battle one Southerner equalled five Yankees.
7. In believing that the flag of the Cotton Oligarchy would wave above the Capitol at Washington, and the roll of slaves be called on Bunker Hill.
8. In believing that the fancied omnipotence of Cotton would dominate the commerce of the world.
