One of the most common rumors held that the biggest threat came from Baltimore, where [6,000] men were reputed to be armed and prepared to act. As the date of the count neared, [100] police officers from New York and Philadelphia converged on Washington to further ensure its successful completion.”

“General Scott’s troops and cannon were visible throughout the city [Washington], a potent symbol of the Army’s resolve to ensure that the electoral count and certification of Lincoln’s election, set for February 13 [1861], would occur without disruption.