February 11, 1861; The New York Herald
Since the secession movement commenced resignations in the army and navy have been plentiful. In the army two lieutenant colonels, two majors, eight captains, ten lieutenants and four cadets have resigned. In the navy three captains, three commanders, three pursers, two surgeons and two assistants, sixteen lieutenants, three masters, four midshipmen and twenty acting midshipmen, have retired from the service, believing that their first allegiance is due to the soil upon which they were born, and that they cannot under any circumstances draw the sword against the South. the resignation of these gentlemen, many of whom are dependent upon their pay for support, is another proof, if any more were needed, that the South is willing to give up everything for the sake of the principle at stake in this conflict.