seven o'clock
Sylvia stood close beside Mrs. Carleton , and they were all silent . Aunt Connie brought up hot coffee and a tray of food , but none of them cared to eat . Mr. Fulton waited anxiously for the sound of answering guns from Fort Sumter . But not until seven o'clock that morning did Fort Sumter open its fire . `` War has begun , '' said Mr. Fulton gravely , turning away from the window . `` Will the President 's ships come soon , Father ? '' asked Sylvia .