In March of 1861 there were 34 states. When seven of the Southern States seceded there were 27 States and a total of 54 Senators available to convene a quorum. There were 238 Representatives and only 33 walked out. With 205 Representatives available 86% of the Representatives were available which was more than enough to establish a quorum. This claim that Congress adjourned "Sine Die" and that Congress lacked a quorum to do business is not correct.