[DiogenesLamp]

...and you will under no circumstances communicate to the Navy Department the fact that she is fitting out.

...The object and destination of this expedition will be communicated to no one to whom it is not already known.

This order, its object, and your destination will be communicated to no person whatever...

And I say again, what possible use does a "re-supply" mission have for secret orders?

[PeaRidge]

Did you know that they painted out the name “Baltic”?

[BroJoeK]

DiogenesLamp: "And I say again, what possible use does a 're-supply' mission have for secret orders? "

So, now do you admit we know perfectly well what those "secret orders" said?
If so, then you also know they said just what Lincoln told South Carolina Governor Pickens directly: resupply only, no reinforcement if not resisted.

Remember, President Buchanan's similar mission in January, Star of the West was fired on and withdrew.
Doubtless Lincoln hoped his resupply ships would have better luck.