Based on that single order for the "hiring of the ships", one could incorrectly think that and be deceived. This one order has often been quoted by supporters of that myth, and that is why I posted it followed by the order in post 434, which reveals the true and stated mission. I presented them as a pair to expose that myth for what it was, a myth. The second order is but one that very clearly shows the true purpose of the mission.
He said as much in letters to Governor Pickens and Major Anderson, and Wells is repeating those instructions here with orders to support the landing of supplies if opposed.
He lied. Read the second order where it is revealed what the true and exact nature of the mission was. The first order only deals with the "hiring of the ships", and the real mission was not revealed in that order. That is common military practice. Lincoln lied.
Had Davis not chosen to begin a war then the status quo would have been maintained and a peaceful resolution might have been achieved. But that didn't suit his purposes I guess.
LOL - It was Lincoln who did not want a peaceful resolution, and that is why he sent US Agent Fox to devise and lead a mission guaranteed to cause an incident sufficent for his warmongering purposes.