The heavy guns of the fleet, ninety in all, with an extreme range of fifteen miles, command practically the whole of Greater New York.
I am instructed by my Government to demand of you a ransom of five billion dollars, the bond for which, together with a first payment of five hundred million dollars in gold, must be delivered on board the flagship, twenty-four hours after the delivery of this ultimatum, that is to say, by 9 A.M. on April 2d. Failing the receipt of this at or before the hour named I shall open fire on your city.
If, during the twenty-four hours covered by the truce, any movement of troops, either of the regular army or of the National Guard, takes place, I shall immediately commence bombardment.
I have the honor to be
Buchner,
Commander-in-Chief.
