Dispatch from Gen. J. E. Johnston.--Dispatch from Gen. Lee.--Mr.
Saulsbury's resolution in the U. S. Senate.--Progress of the enemy.--
Rumored preparations for the flight of the President.--Wrangling of
high officials.--Position of the armies.
MAY 1ST.--Cloudy and showery, but warm, and fine for vegetation. My
lettuce, cabbage, beans, etc. are growing finely. But the Yankee corn
and lima beans, imported by Col. Gorgas, Chief of Ordnance, have rotted
in the ground.
No war news.
Yesterday a paper was sent to the President by Gen. Pickett,
recommending Gen. Roger A. Pryor for a cavalry command in North
Carolina. But the President sent it to the Secretary of War with the
curt remark that the command had already been disposed of to Col.
Dearing, on Gen. Hoke's recommendation. Thus Gen. P. is again whistled
down the wind, in spite of the efforts of even Mr. Hunter, and many
other leading politicians. It is possible Gen. P. may have on some
occasion criticised Lee.
MAY 2D.--A cool day, sunshine and showers.
To-day Congress assembled, and the President's message was delivered,
although he buried his youngest son yesterday, who lost his life by an
accidental fall from the porch on Saturday.
We have abundance of good news to-day.
First, the Florida has captured one, and destroyed another of the
enemy's vessels of war in the West Indies.
Second, we have authentic intelligence of the evacuation of Washington,
N. C. by the enemy, pursued by our forces toward Newbern.
Third, four steamers have arrived at Wilmington laden with quartermaster
and ordnance stores. Col. Gorgas, Chief of Ordnance, says we now have
arms and ammunition enough.
A letter from Gen. Lee indicates the propriety of Gen. Imboden retaining
his recruits (which the Secretary wanted to take from him, because they
were liable to conscription) in the Shenandoah Valley. This does not
look like a purpose of an advance on Lee's part. He will probably await
the attack.
The President, in an indorsement, intimates to the Secretary of War that
Gen. Pryor might be assigned to a brigade of the Reserve class.
About 5 o'clock this afternoon we had a tornado from the southwest which
I fear has done mischief in the country. It blew off half a dozen planks
from my garden fence, and I had difficulty in nailing them on again with
such rusty nails as I could find. Nails are worth almost their weight in
silver.
The gardeners sell tomato-plants for $10 per dozen, and cabbage-plants
for 50 cts. each! But I am independent, having my own little hot-beds.
MAY 3D.--A cold, windy day, with sunshine and clouds.
It is rumored that Grant's army is in motion, and the great battle is
eagerly looked for. The collision of mighty armies, upon the issue of
which the fate of empire depends, is now imminent.
The following dispatch was received to-day from Gen. Johnston:
"DALTON, May 2d, 1864.
"Two scouts, who went by Outawah and Cleveland, report the enemy
sending all Southern people and heavy baggage to the rear, stopping
rations to the inhabitants, collecting a large supply of trains at
Graysville, and bringing their cavalry from Middle Tennessee. An
officer just from Columbia reports 13,000 had been collected there.
All scouts report Hooker's troops in position
here. J. E. JOHNSTON, _General_."
MAY 4TH.--Bright, beautiful, and warmer; but fire in the morning.
The following dispatch from Gen. Lee was received by Gen. Bragg to-day
and sent to the Secretary.
"ORANGE C. H., May 4th, 1864.
"Reports from our lookouts seem to indicate that the enemy is in
motion. The present direction of his column is to our right.
"Gen. Imboden reports the enemy advancing from Winchester, up the
Valley, with wagons, beef cattle, etc. R. E. LEE."
There is a rumor of fighting at Chancellorville, and this is the
anniversary, I believe, of the battle there. May we be as successful
this time! But the report is not authentic. Firing is heard now in the
direction of York River.
MAY 5TH.--We have many rumors to-day, and nothing authentic, except that
some of the enemy's transports are in the James River, and landing some
troops, a puerile demonstration, perhaps. The number landed at West
Point, it seems, was insignificant. It may be the armies of the United
States are demoralized, and if so, if Grant be beaten, I shall look for
a speedy end of the invasion. It is said some of the advanced forces of
Grant were at Spottsylvania C. H. last night, and the great battle may
occur any hour.
Gov. Smith is calling for more exemptions (firemen, etc.) than all the
governors together.
Col. Preston asks authority to organize a company of conscripts, Reserve
classes, in each congressional district, the President having assigned a
general officer to each State to command these classes. The colonel
wants to command something.
The Commissary-General, Col. Northrop, being called on, reports that he
can feed the army until fall with the means on hand and attainable. So,
troops didn't starve in thirty days several months ago!
A Mr. Pond has made a proposition which Mr. Memminger is in favor of
accepting, viz.: the government to give him a bill of sale of 10,000
bales of cotton lying in the most exposed places in the West, he to take
it away and to take all risks, except destruction by our troops, to ship
it from New Orleans to Antwerp, and he will pay, upon receiving said
bill of sale, 10 pence sterling per pound. The whole operation will be
consummated by the Belgian Consul in New Orleans, and the Danish
Vice-Consul in Mobile. It is probable the United States Government, or
some members of it, are interested in the speculation. But it will be
advantageous to us.
"A PERTINENT RESOLUTION.--The following was offered recently in the
United States Senate, by Mr. Saulsbury, of Delaware:
"'_Resolved_, That the Chaplain of the Senate be respectfully requested
hereafter to pray and supplicate Almighty God in our behalf, and not to
lecture Him, informing Him, under pretense of prayer, his, said
chaplain's, opinion in reference to His duty as the Almighty; and that
the said Chaplain be further requested, as aforesaid, not, under the
form of prayer, to lecture the Senate in relation to questions before
the body.'"
MAY 6TH.--Bright, warm, beautiful.
We have a sensation to-day, but really no excitement. A dispatch from
Gen. Lee (dated last night) says the _enemy_ opened the battle
yesterday, and the conflict continued until night put an end to the
carnage. He says we have many prisoners, captured four guns, etc.,
losing two generals killed, one, Gen. J. M. Jones. But our position was
maintained, and the enemy repulsed. Doubtless the battle was renewed
this morning.
Some _fifty-nine_ transports and several iron-clad gun-boats, monitors,
etc., came up the James River yesterday and last night. A heavy force
was landed at Bermuda Hundred, within a few miles of the railroad
between Richmond and Petersburg.
And the enemy likewise came up the Peninsula, and there was fighting
this morning on the Chickahominy.
Thus the plan of the enemy is distinctly pronounced, and the assaults
were designed to be made simultaneously. Yet there is no undue
excitement.
A dispatch from Gen. Pickett at Petersburg, this morning, to Gen. Bragg,
asked if he (Bragg) intended to defend the railroad between Richmond and
Petersburg. He said, "the enemy will attack the road to-day, marching
from Bermuda Hundred, I think."
At 3 P.M. we are waiting with anxiety for news from all quarters.
Both my sons marched out in the Department Battalion. Two Tennessee
regiments marched down to Drewry's Bluff yesterday, and Hunton's
brigade, that left there yesterday, were ordered back again last night.
It is said troops were passing south through the city all night. And I
know heavy forces are on the way from North Carolina. Gen. Pickett
likewise has the greater part of his division in supporting distance.
So, if the enemy have not cut the road by this time, it is probably
safe, and the expedition will be a failure. If Lee defeats Grant, the
city will certainly be saved. All the local troops are out.
Gen. Beauregard is expected to-day, but it is reported he is sick at
Weldon. On the 3d inst. the following dispatch was received from him:
"KINSTON, N. C.
"GEN. COOPER.
"Orders should be given for the immediate re-establishment of
fisheries at Plymouth and Washington, also to get large supplies of
pork in Hyde County and vicinity.
"G. T. BEAUREGARD, _General_."
On this the Commissary-General indorsed that the matter had been
attended to--had, indeed, been anticipated.
The best indication of the day (to me) was the smiling face of Mr.
Hunter as he came from the Secretary's office. He said to me, "The ball
is opening well."
The President and his aids rode over the river to-day: what direction
they took I know not; but this I know, he has no idea of being taken by
the enemy. And he cannot think the city will be taken, for in that event
it would be difficult for him to escape.
MAY 7TH.--Bright and warm. The following is Gen. Lee's dispatch,
received yesterday morning--the _italics_ not his.
"HEADQUARTERS ARMY NORTHERN VIRGINIA,
"May 5th, 1864.
"HON. SECRETARY OF WAR.
"The enemy crossed the Rapidan at Ely's and Germania fords. Two
corps of this army moved to oppose him--Ewell by the old turnpike,
and Hill by the plank-road.
"They arrived this morning in close proximity to the enemy's line
of march.
"A strong attack was made upon Ewell, who repulsed it, _capturing
many prisoners and four pieces of artillery_.
"The enemy subsequently concentrated upon Gen. Hill, who, with
Heth's and Wilcox's divisions, _successfully resisted repeated and
desperate assaults_.
"A large force of cavalry and artillery on our right was _driven
back_ by Rosser's brigade.
"By the blessing of God, we maintained our position _against every
effort_ until night, when the contest closed.
"We have to mourn the loss of many brave officers and men. The
gallant Brig.-Gen. J. M. Jones was killed, and Brig.-Gen. Stafford,
I fear, mortally wounded, while leading his command with
conspicuous valor.
"(Signed) R. E. LEE."
A dispatch from Gen. Lee this morning says Hill's corps was thrown into
confusion yesterday by an attack of the enemy when some of the divisions
were being relieved. But afterward we recovered the ground, strewn with
the dead and wounded of the enemy. Then we attacked their whole line,
driving them behind their breastworks. He concludes by thanks for our
ability still to withstand all assaults. No doubt Grant has overwhelming
numbers, and Lee is under the necessity of sparing his men as much as
possible, while his adversary leads into action a succession of fresh
troops. Gen. Longstreet is wounded.
Gen. Beauregard is at Petersburg, charged with the defense of this city
and the railroad. Troops have been marching toward Drewry's Bluff during
the day. If the attack be delayed 24 hours more, we shall be strong
enough to repel even the then greatly superior numbers of the invader.
But there is more anxiety manifested to-day. Senator Hunter and Mr.
Ould, the agent of exchange, have been in the office next to mine once
or twice, to drink some of the good whisky kept by Mr. Chapman, the
disbursing clerk of the department. Mr. H.'s face is quite red.
5 P.M. The tocsin is sounding, for the militia, I suppose, all others
being in the field. It is reported that the attack on Drewry's Bluff, or
rather on our forces posted there for its defense, has begun. Barton's
brigade marched thither to-day. It is said the enemy have 40,000 men on
the south side of James River--we, 20,000.
There is now some excitement and trepidation among the shopkeepers and
extortioners, who are compelled by State law to shoulder the musket for
the defense of the city, and there is some running to and fro
preliminary to the _rendezvous_ in front of the City Hall. The alarm,
however, I learnt at the department, is caused by reports brought in by
countrymen, that the enemy is approaching the city from the _northeast_,
as if from Gloucester Point. It _may_ be so--a small body; but Gen.
Ransom, Gen. Elzey's successor here, doubts it, for his scouts give no
intelligence of the enemy in that quarter. But the 19th Militia Regiment
and the Foreign Battalion will have the pleasure of sleeping in the open
air to-night, and of dreaming of their past gains, etc.
MAY 8TH.--Bright and hot.
The tocsin sounded again this morning. I learned upon inquiry that it
was merely for the militia again (they were dismissed yesterday after
being called together), perhaps to relieve the local battalions near the
city.
The Secretary of War received a dispatch to-day from Gen. Lee, stating
that there was no fighting yesterday, only slight skirmishing. Grant
remained where he had been driven, in the "Wilderness," behind his
breastworks, completely checked in his "On to Richmond." He may be badly
hurt, and perhaps his men object to being led to the slaughter again.
There has been no fighting below, between this and Petersburg, and we
breathe freer, for Beauregard, we know, has made the best use of time.
It is said another of the enemy's gun-boats has been destroyed by
boarding and burning. We have three iron-clads and rams here _above_ the
obstructions, which will probably be of no use at this trying time.
A few days more will tell the story of this combined and most formidable
attempt to take Richmond; and if it be the old song of failure, we may
look for a speedy termination of the war. So mote it be!
Meantime my vegetables are growing finely, except the corn and lima
beans (Yankee), Col. Gorgas's importation, which have not come up.
A cow and calf now sells for $2500. My friend, Dr. Powell, has just
sold one for a great price, he would not tell me what. But I told him
that the greed for gain was the worst feature in our people, and made me
sometimes tremble for the cause. I fear a just retribution may entail
ruin on the farmers, who seem to think more of their cattle than of
their sons in the field.
MAY 9TH.--Bright and sultry.
A dispatch from Gen. Lee says the enemy is moving down toward
Fredericksburg, and yesterday the advance of our army encountered his
right wing at Spottsylvania Court House, and repulsed it "with great
slaughter." Strong language for Lee.
A dispatch received this morning said the enemy was advancing on the
railroad. Subsequently cannon could be heard in the direction of
Drewry's Bluff.
The tocsin has been sounding all day, for the militia, which come
slowly, after being summoned and dismissed so often. I fear, when they
are sent over the river, if all the men at the defenses on the north
side are sent over also, that a cavalry raid from the north may dash
into the city and burn the bridges on, the James; then our army would be
in a "fix." I have expressed this apprehension to the Secretary, and
asked him to arm the old men, for the defense of the bridges, public
buildings, etc. He awaits _events_. Mr. Hunter and other public
characters are looking very grave.
The following dispatch was received to-day from Weldon, via Raleigh and
Greensborough, N. C:
"May 8th.
"The enemy destroyed the wire from Stony Creek to within three miles
of Belfield, a distance of about fifteen miles. Our men and
employees are repairing it, and we hope to have communication
reopened to-morrow. W. S. HARRIS."
Col. Preston, Superintendent of Bureau of Conscription, has written
another letter to the Secretary, urging the promotion of Captain C. B.
Duffield, who threatens to leave him for a position with Gen. Kumper, at
Lynchburg, where he can live cheaper. He says he has urged the
President, to no avail.
The Secretary has roused himself. Since 3 P.M. he has issued a call "TO
ARMS!" All men capable of bearing arms are requested to report to Gen.
Kemper, Franklin Street, to be armed and organized "temporarily" for
the defense of the city. Gen. Ransom had previously issued a placard,
calling on officers and men on furlough to meet in Capitol Square for
temporary organization. This may involve some etiquette, or question of
jurisdiction between the generals. Gen. Winder is utterly ignored.
I have just heard that the Departmental Battalion has been marched
across Mayo's Bridge to the fortifications of Manchester, on the south
side of the river. The militia regiment will go to the place on the
north side heretofore occupied by them.
Another dispatch from Gen. Lee, received since 3 P.M. to-day, says Grant
attacked him again yesterday, after the slaughter by our Gen. Anderson,
and was handsomely repulsed. Grant's tactics seem to be to receive his
stripes by installments.
MAY 10TH.--Bright, but windy and dusty.
There is an excitement at last; but it is sullen rather than despairing.
No one seems to doubt our final success, although the enemy have now
some 200,000 in Virginia, and we but little over half that number.
We have nothing from Lee to-day, but it is believed he is busy in
battle.
A portion of Grant's right wing, cut off at Spottsylvania Court House,
endeavored to march across the country to the Peninsula. They cut the
railroad at Beaver Dam, and destroyed some of our commissary stores. But
it is likely they will be captured.
The enemy beat us yesterday at Dublin Depot, wounding Gen. Jenkins.
On the other hand, Gen. McNeal (C. S.) has cut the Baltimore and Ohio
Railroad, destroying millions of property. Thus the work goes on!
There was no general engagement down the river.
At 12 o'clock last night a column of infantry passed our house, going
down Clay Street. Many thought it was the enemy.
I saw a letter to-day from Gen. Beauregard to Gen. Bragg, dated Weldon,
April 29th, giving the names of the Federal generals commanding forces
on the Southern coast, so that the arrival of any of these officers in
Virginia would indicate the transfer of their troops thither. He
concluded by saying that if it were desired he should operate on the
north side of James River, maps ought to be prepared for him, and
timbers, etc. for bridges; and that he would serve with pleasure under
the immediate command of Gen. Lee, "aiding him to crush our enemies, and
to achieve the independence of our country."
Gen. Bragg, May 2d, sent this to Gen. Cooper, who referred it to the
Secretary of War. Gen. Bragg indorsed on it that several of the Federal
generals named had arrived at Fortress Monroe.
The Secretary sent it to the President on the 7th of May.
To-day the President sent it back indorsed as follows: "Maps of the
country, with such additions as may from time to time be made, should be
kept on hand in the Engineer Bureau, and furnished to officers in the
field. Preparations of material for bridges, etc. will continue to be
made as heretofore, and with such additional effort as circumstances
require.
"I did not doubt the readiness of Gen. Beauregard to serve under any
general who ranks him. The right of Gen. Lee to command would be derived
from his superior rank.
"JEFFERSON DAVIS.
"9th May, 1864."
MAY 11TH.--Bright and pleasant--breezy. This has been a day of
excitement.
At midnight the Departmental Battalion were marched from the south side
of the river back to the city, and rested the remainder of the night at
Camp Lee. But at 9 A.M. they were marched hurriedly to Meadow Bridge.
They came past our house. Custis and his brother Thomas ran
in--remaining but a moment. Custis exclaimed: "Let me have some money,
mother (I had to go to the office), or we will starve. The government
don't feed us, and we are almost famished. Cook something, and get
Captain Warner to bring it in his buggy--do, if possible." He got $20.
They looked worn, and were black with dust, etc. My daughter said "they
looked like negroes."
The Secretary issued this morning a new edition of his handbills,
calling the people "to arms."
Mr. Mallory's usual red face turned purple. He has not yet got out the
iron-clad Richmond, etc., which might have sunk Gen. Butler's
transports.
Lieut.-Col. Lay was exhibiting a map of our defenses, and predicting
something,--whether good or evil, I did not stay to learn. But I thought
such maps ought not to be shown in the public hall of the department.
The armory was open to-day, and all who desired them were furnished with
arms.
The Governor, I hear, issued a notification that the enemy would be here
to-day, etc. I did not see it.
All classes not in the army were gathered up and marched to the
defenses.
2 P.M. Respectable men just from the vicinity report a great victory for
Lee, yesterday, though we have nothing from him. The Secretary believes
these concurring reports, which state that the battle, beginning near
Spottsylvania Court House, ended at Fredericksburg, indicating a
WATERLOO.
And a dispatch from Gen. Ransom from the south side of the river, states
that Butler's army is _retreating to the transports_. This is regarded
as confirmation of Lee's victory.
Several dispatches from Gen. Stuart state that the raiders have been
severely beaten in several combats this morning, and are flying toward
Dover Mills. They may come back, for _they_ have not heard of Grant's
defeat.
Mr. Memminger is said to have been frightened terribly, and arrangements
were made for flight.
MAY 12TH.--Thunder, lightning, and rain all day.
The report of Gen. Lee's victory was premature, and Butler has not gone,
nor the raiders vanished. On the contrary, the latter were engaged in
battle with Stuart's division late in the afternoon, and recommenced it
this morning at 3 o'clock, the enemy remaining on the ground, and still
remain, some five miles from where I write. Major-Gen. J. E. B. Stuart
was wounded last evening, through the kidney, and now lies in the city,
in a dying condition! Our best generals thus fall around us.
The battle raged furiously; every gun distinctly heard at our house
until 1 P.M.--the enemy being intrenched between our middle and outer
line of works. Meantime our ambulances are arriving every hour with the
wounded, coming in by the Brooke Turnpike.
The battalion my sons are in lost none of its men, though shelled by the
enemy early in the morning; nor do we know that our battery did any
execution. Capt. Warner delivered the provisions their mother cooked
for them yesterday. He saw only Custis, who gladly received the bread,
and meat, and eggs; but he and Tom were both drenched with rain, as they
had no shelter yesterday. But a comrade, and one of Custis's Latin
pupils, whom I saw, returned on sick leave, says Thomas stands the
fatigue and exposure better than Custis, who was complaining.
About 11 A.M. to-day there was very heavy reports of cannon heard in the
direction of Drewry's Bluff, supposed to be our battery shelling the
country below, for some purpose.
I understand one or more of our iron-clads will certainly go out this
evening, or to-night; we shall know it when it occurs, for the firing
will soon follow.
Worked in my garden; set out corn and (yellow) tomatoes; the former
given me by my neighbor, to whom I had given lettuce and beet plants.
My wife spent a miserable day, some one having reported that the
Departmental Battalion was cut to pieces in the battle. When I came in,
she asked me if Custis and Thomas were alive, and was exceedingly glad
to know not a man in the company had been even wounded.
I shall never forget the conformation of the clouds this morning as the
storm arose. There were different strata running in various directions.
They came in heaviest volume from the southeast in parallel lines, like
lines of battle swooping over the city. There were at the same time
shorter and fuller lines from the southwest, and others from the north.
The meeting of these was followed by tremendous clashes of lightning and
thunder; and between the pauses of the artillery of the elements above,
the thunder of artillery on earth could be distinctly heard. Oh that the
strife were ended! But Richmond is to be defended at all hazards.
It is said, however, that preparations have been made for the flight of
the President, cabinet, etc. up the Danville Road, in the event of the
fall of the city. Yet no one fears that the present forces environing it
could take it. If Lee withstands Grant another week, all will be safe.
My greatest fear is the want of provisions. My wife bought a half bushel
of meal; so we have a week's supply on hand, as we were not quite out. I
hope Beauregard will soon restore communication with the South.
MAY 13TH.--Cloudy and showery all day.
Last night my youngest son Thomas came in, furloughed (unsolicited) by
his officers, who perceived his exhaustion.
The enemy disappeared in the night. We suffered most in the several
engagements with him near the city. I suppose some sympathizer had
furnished him with a copy of our photograph map of the fortifications
and country in the vicinity.
But the joy of many, and chagrin of some at his escape so easily, was
soon followed by the startling intelligence that a raid from Gen.
Butler's army had cut the _Danville_ Road! All communication with the
country from which provisions are derived is now completely at an end!
And if supplies are withheld that long, this community, as well as the
army, must be without food in ten, days! Col. Northrop told me to-day
that unless the railroads were retaken and repaired, he could not feed
the troops ten days longer. And he blamed Gen. Lee for the loss of over
200,000 pounds of bacon at Beaver Dam. He says Gen. Lee ordered it
there, instead of keeping it at Charlottesville or Gordonsville. Could
Lee make such a blunder?
Most of the members of Congress, when not in session, hang about the
door and hall of the War Department, eager for news, Mr. Hunter being
the most prominent, if not the most anxious among them. But the wires
are cut in all directions, and we must rely on couriers.
The wildest rumors float through the air. Every successive hour gives
birth to some new tidings, and one must be near the Secretary's table
indeed to escape being misled by false reports.
For two days no dispatch has been received from Gen. Lee, although one
hears of a dispatch just received from him at every corner of the
streets. A courier arrived to-day from the _vicinity_ of our army. He
saw a _gentleman_ who saw Gen. Lee's son _Robert_ yesterday, and was
informed by him that our army was five miles nearer Fredericksburg,
having driven the enemy farther down the river.
Our iron-clads--Virginia, Richmond, and Fredericksburg--I understood
from Lieut. Minor, this morning, will not go out until in readiness to
cope successfully with the enemy's fleet of gun-boats and monitors. How
long that will be he did not say. It may be _to-day_. And while I write
(4-1/2 P.M.) I can distinctly hear the roar of artillery down the river.
It may be an engagement by land or by water, or by both; and it may be
only the customary shelling of the woods by the enemy's gun-boats. But
it is very rapid sometimes.
A courier reports the raid on the Danville Road as not formidable. They
are said, however, to have blown up the coal-pits. They cannot _blow_
coal _higher_ than our own extortionate people have done.
I directed my wife to lay out all the money about the house in
provisions. She got a bushel of meal and five pounds of bacon for about
$100. If we must endure another turn of the screw of famine, it is well
to provide for it as well as possible. We cannot starve now, in a month;
and by that time, Gens. Lee and Beauregard may come to our relief. Few
others are looked to hopefully. The functionaries here might have had a
six-months' supply, by wise and energetic measures.
The President has had the Secretary of War closeted with him nearly all
day. It is too late now for the evacuation of Richmond, and a
_desperate_ defense will be made. If the city falls, the consequences
will be ruinous to the present government. And how could any of its
members escape? Only in disguise. This is the time to try the nerves of
the President and his counselors!
Gen. Bragg is very distasteful to many officers of the army; and the
croakers and politicians would almost be willing to see the government
go to pieces, to get rid of the President and his cabinet. Some of the
members of Congress are anxious to get _away_, and the _Examiner_ twits
them for their cowardice. They will stay, probably.
MAY 14TH.--Warm, with alternate sunshine and showers.
With the dawn recommenced the heavy boom of cannon down the river. It
was rumored this morning that our right wing at Drewry's Bluff had been
flanked, but no official information has been received of the progress
of the fight. I saw a long line of ambulances going in that direction.
To-day it is understood that the battle of Petersburg will be fought by
Beauregard, if he be not withheld from attacking the enemy by orders
from Richmond.
We have been beaten, or rather badly foiled here, by orders from high
authority; and it is said Gen. Ransom finds himself merely an
instrument in the hands of those who do not know how to use him
skillfully.
The enemy is said to have made a bridge across the James River, either
to come on the north side, or to enable the raiders to reach them. They
are also planting torpedoes, for our iron rams. They are not yet ready.
Gen. Lee is prosecuting the defensive policy effectively. Couriers to
the press, considered quite reliable, give some details of a most
terrific battle in Spottsylvania County day before yesterday, 12th inst.
Our men (with extra muskets) fought behind their breastworks. The host
of assailants came on, stimulated by whisky rations, ten deep, and
fearful was the slaughter. Their loss is estimated at 20,000; ours,
2000. The enemy were still in front. Grant says he will not recross the
Rappahannock as long as he has a man left. Lee seems determined to kill
his last man.
A great deal of time is said to have been consumed in cabinet council,
making selections for appointments. It is a harvest for hunters after
brigadier and major-generalships. The President is very busy in this
business, and Secretary Seddon is sick--neuralgia.
Last night Custis came home on a furlough of twelve hours. He got a
clean shirt, and washed himself--not having had his shoes or clothes off
for more than a week. He has not taken cold, though sleeping in the
water, and not having dry clothes on him for several days. And his
appetite is excellent. He departed again for camp, four miles off, at
5-1/2 A.M., bringing and taking out his gun, his heavy cartridge-box,
and well-filled haversack (on his return).
Half-past four o'clock P.M. A tremendous cannonade is now distinctly
heard down the river, the intonations resembling thunder. No doubt the
monitors are engaged with the battery at Drewry's Bluff. It may be a
combined attack.
Gen. Pemberton has resigned his commission; but the President has
conferred on him a lieutenant-colonelcy of artillery. Thus the feelings
of all the armies and most of the people are outraged; for, whether
justly or not, both Pemberton and Bragg, to whom the President clings
with tenacity, are especially obnoxious both to the people and the army.
May Heaven shield us! Yet the President _may_ be right.
MAY 15TH.--Clouds, sunshine, and showers.
The tremendous cannonading all day yesterday at Drewry's Bluff was
merely an artillery duel--brought on by the heavy skirmishing of
pickets. The batteries filled the air with discordant sounds, and shook
the earth with grating vibration. Perhaps 100 on each side were killed
and wounded--"not worth the ammunition," as a member of the government
said.
Gen. Lee's dispatches to the President have been withheld from
publication during the last four days. The loss of two trains of
commissary stores affords the opportunity to censure Lee; but some think
his popularity and power both with the people and the army have inspired
the motive.
I saw to-day some of our slightly wounded men from Lee's army, who were
in the fight of Thursday (12th inst.), and they confirm the reports of
the heavy loss of the enemy. They say there is no suffering yet for
food, and the men are still in good spirits.
Both the Central and the Fredericksburg Roads are repaired, and trains
of provisions are now daily sent to Gen. Lee.
The Danville Road was not materially injured; the raiders being repulsed
before they could destroy the important bridges. Supplies can come to
Petersburg, and may be forwarded by wagons to the Danville Road, and
thence to Lynchburg, etc.
Fresh troops are arriving from the South for Beauregard; but he is still
withheld from decisive operations.
The Departmental Battalion is still out; the enemy still menacing us
from the Chickahominy.
During the last four days correspondence has ceased almost entirely, and
the heads of bureaus, captains, majors, lieutenant-colonels, adjutants,
quartermasters, and commissaries, have nothing to do. They wander about
with hanging heads, ashamed to be safely out of the field--I mean all
under 50 years of age--and look like sheep-stealing dogs. Many sought
their positions, and still retain them, to keep out of danger. Such
cravens are found in all countries, and are perhaps fewer in this than
any other. However, most of the population of the city between 17 and 50
are absent from the streets; some few shopkeeping Jews and Italians are
imprisoned for refusing to aid in the defense, and some no doubt are
hidden.
Most of the able-bodied negro men, both free and slave, have been taken
away--in the field as teamsters, or digging on the fortifications. Yet
those that remain may sometimes be seen at the street corners looking,
some wistfully, some in dread, in the direction of the enemy. There is
but little fear of an insurrection, though no doubt the enemy would be
welcomed by many of the negroes, both free and slave.
At 1 P.M. to-day a train arrived from Guinea's Station with 800 of our
wounded, in Sunday's and Thursday's battles.
The following prices are now paid in this city: boots, $200; coats,
$350; pants, $100; shoes, $125; flour, $275 per barrel; meal, $60 to $80
per bushel; bacon, $9 per pound; no beef in market; chickens, $30 per
pair; shad, $20; potatoes, $25 per bushel; turnip greens, $4 per peck;
white beans, $4 per quart, or $120 per bushel; butter, $15 per pound;
lard, same; wood, $50 per cord. What a change a decisive victory--or
defeat--would make!
MAY 16TH.--Warm--sunshine and light showers.
Memorable day--not yet decided at 2 P.M. Early this morning Gen.
Beauregard attacked the enemy on the south side of the river, and by 9
A.M. he had sent over to the city Gen. Heckman and 840 prisoners, the
entire 27th Massachusetts Regiment. Subsequently it is said 400 were
sent over. By 12 M. the firing had receded out of hearing from the city,
and messengers report that the enemy were being driven back rapidly.
Hon. Geo. Davis, Attorney-General (from North Carolina), told me that
Gen. Whiting was coming up from Petersburg, in the enemy's _rear_, with
13,000 men. So, at this hour, the prospects are glorious.
Gen. Pickett has been relieved--_indisposition_. Brig.-Gen. Barton has
also been relieved, for some cause arising out of the failure to capture
the raiders on this side the river.
Gens. Bragg and Pemberton made an inspection of the position of the
enemy, down the river, yesterday, and made rather a cheerless report to
the President. They are both supposed to be inimical to Gen. Beauregard,
who seems to be achieving such brilliant success.
The President rode over to Beauregard's headquarters this morning. Some
fear he will embarrass the general; others say he is near the field,
prepared to fly, if it be lost. In truth, if we were defeated, it might
be difficult for him to return to the city.
Gen. Breckenridge has defeated Sigel in the Shenandoah Valley.
Gen. Lee dispatches that he had no fighting Saturday and Sunday. To-day
Grant is retiring his right wing, but advancing his left east of
Spottsylvania Court House, where Lee's headquarters are still
established.
MAY 17TH.--Sunshine and showers.
The battle yesterday decided nothing, that I am aware of. We captured
1000 prisoners, stormed some of their intrenchments; losing altogether
probably as many as the enemy. But we drove them back to Bermuda
Hundred, behind their fortifications, and near their ships.
Gen. Johnston was attacked at Dalton by 80,000 men last week; accounts,
some five days old, say he repulsed the assaults of the enemy.
The Departmental Battalion is out yet; the city being still in danger.
The government is almost suspended in its functions. The Secretary of
the Treasury cannot get money from Columbia, S. C., whither he foolishly
sent the girls that sign the notes.
Some of the idle military officers, always found about the departments,
look grave, and do not hesitate to express some apprehension of the
success of Grant in forcing Lee back, and spreading over all Northern
and Northwestern Virginia. The Secretary of War is much secluded, and I
see by a correspondence between him and the Secretary of the Treasury,
relating to the _million and three-quarters_ in coin, belonging to the
New Orleans banks, that the Secretary of the Treasury can make no "valid
objection to the proposition of the Secretary of War." I do not
understand what disposition they propose to make of it.
A list is being prepared at the War Department (by Mr. Assistant
Secretary Campbell) for Congress to pass, authorizing the seizure of all
the railroads in the Confederacy. Also one establishing and reorganizing
the Bureau of Conscription.
If Butler remains between Richmond and Petersburg, and is reinforced,
and Grant is strong enough (two to Lee's one) to push on toward
Richmond, our perils and trials will be greater than ever.
Vice-President Stephens has not yet arrived. I do not understand that he
is ill.
MAY 18TH.--Showers and sunshine, the first preponderating.
Our killed and wounded in Beauregard's battle amount to some 1500. The
enemy lost 1000 prisoners, and perhaps 1500 killed and wounded.
Railroad men report heavy firing this morning near Fredericksburg, and
it is believed another battle is in progress.
From the West we have a report, derived from the enemy at Natchez, that
Gen. Banks has surrendered to Lieut-Gen. Smith.
It is rumored likewise that President Lincoln has called for 60,000
militia, _to defend Washington_.
A fortnight ago, Mr. Benjamin procured passports for one or two of his
agents "to pass the lines at will." They may have procured information,
but it did not prevent the enemy from coming.
Attended a funeral (next door to us) ceremony this afternoon at 5 P.M.
over the body of Abner Stanfield, a nephew of Mrs. Smith, our next door
neighbor, who fell in battle day before yesterday, near Drewry's Bluff.
By the merest accident his relatives here learned of his fall (by the
paper we loaned them), and Mr. S. had his body brought to his house, and
decently prepared for the grave. His bloody garments were replaced by a
fine suit of clothes he had kept with Mr. S.; his mother, etc. live in
Northern Virginia, and his cousins, the Misses S., decorated the coffin
beautifully with laurels, flowers, etc. He was a handsome young hero,
six feet tall, and died bravely in his country's defense. He was slain
by a shell. The ceremony was impressive, and caused many tears to flow.
But his glorious death and funeral honor will inspire others with
greater resolution to do and to dare, and to die, if necessary, for
their country. The minister did him justice, for the hallowed cause in
which he fell.
MAY 19TH.--Sunshine and showers, the former predominating.
Gen. Lee sends a dispatch saying the enemy's attack yesterday was
repulsed easily--our loss very light.
It is said, however, that the enemy have Guinea's Station, 12 miles this
side of Fredericksburg.
Gen. Beauregard intends shelling Butler in his fortifications
to-morrow.
From the West, in Georgia, and beyond the Mississippi, all seem bright
enough.
Congress has passed a resolution to adjourn on the 31st inst., in
obedience to the wish of the President. He has a majority in both
Houses, it seems; and even the bills they pass are generally dictated by
the Executive, and written in the departments. Judge Campbell is much
used for this purpose.
Gen. Bragg sent in a manuscript, derived from a deserter, stating that
of Gen. Butler's two corps, one, the 10th, is from the Southern coast,
no negroes in it, leaving only negroes in the Southern garrisons. We
learned Butler was in command, and dismissed all apprehensions--and one
day we had but 5000 opposed to his 40,000!
MAY 20TH.--Fog; then sunshine all day, but cool.
Troops have been marching through the city all day from the south side.
I presume others take their places arriving from the South. Barton's
brigade had but 700 out of 2000 that went into battle last Monday. Our
wounded amount to 2000; perhaps the enemy's loss was not so large.
Col. Northrop is vehement in his condemnation of Beauregard; says his
blunders are ruining us; that he is a charlatan, and that he never has
been of any value to the Confederate States; and he censures Gen. Lee,
whom he considers a general, and the only one we have, and the Secretary
of War, for not providing transportation for supplies, now so fearfully
scarce.
I read an indorsement to-day, in the President's writing, as follows:
"Gen. Longstreet has seriously offended against good order and military
discipline in rearresting an officer (Gen. Law) who had been released by
the War Department, without any new offense having been alleged.--J. D."
Mr. Mallory, Secretary of the Navy, wrote a pungent letter to the
Secretary of War to-day, on the failure of the latter to have the
obstructions removed from the river, so that the iron-clads might go out
and fight. He says the enemy has captured our lower battery of
torpedoes, etc., and declares the failure to remove the obstructions
"prejudicial to the interests of the country, and especially to the
naval service, which has thus been prevented from rendering important
service."
Gen. Bragg writes a pretty tart letter to the Secretary of War to-day,
desiring that his reports of the Army of Tennessee, called for by
Congress, be furnished for publication, or else that the reasons be
given for withholding them.
We have no war news to-day.
Mrs. Minor, of Cumberland County, with whom my daughter Anne resides, is
here, in great affliction. Her brother, Col. Rudolph, was killed in the
battle with Sheridan, near Richmond; shot through the head, and buried
on the field. Now she learns that another brother, a cadet, just 18
years old, was killed in the battle of Gen. Breckinridge, in the valley,
shot through the head; and she resolves to set out for Staunton at once,
to recover his body. Her father and sister died a few months ago, and
she has just heard of her aunt's death.
A lady living next door to us had two brothers wounded on Monday, and
they are both here, and will recover.
Gen. Breckinridge is now marching to reinforce Lee. It is said Butler
will set sail to join Grant. If so, we can send Lee 20,000 more men, and
Beauregard's victory will yield substantial fruits.
MAY 21ST.--Sun all day, but a little hazy; perhaps a battle.
There was quite a battle yesterday on the south side. The accounts in
the morning's paper fall short of the whole of our success. The enemy,
it is said to-day, did not regain the works from which they were driven,
but are now cooped up at Bermuda Hundred. Nothing is feared from Butler.
Nothing from Lee, but troops are constantly going to him.
I saw some 10,000 rusty rifles, brought down yesterday from Lee's
battle-field. Many bore marks of balls, deeply indenting or perforating
the barrels. The ordnance officer says in his report that he has
collected many thousands more than were dropped by our killed and
wounded. This does not look like a _Federal_ victory!
MAY 22D.--Clear and warm, but the atmosphere is charged with the smoke
and dust of contending armies. The sun shines but dimly.
Custis was with us last night, and returned to camp at 5 A.M. to-day. He
gets from government only a small loaf of corn bread and a herring a
day. We send him something, however, every other morning. His appetite
is voracious, and he has not taken cold. He loathes the camp life, and
some of the associates he meets in his mess, but is sustained by the
vicissitudes and excitements of the hour, and the conviction that the
crisis must be over soon.
Last night there was furious shelling down the river, supposed to be a
night attack by Butler, which, no doubt, Beauregard anticipated. Result
not heard.
The enemy's cavalry were at Milford yesterday, but did no mischief, as
our stores had been moved back to Chesterfield depot, and a raid on
Hanover C. H. was repulsed. Lee was also attacked yesterday evening, and
repulsed the enemy. It is said Ewell is now engaged in a flank movement,
and the GREAT FINAL battle may be looked for immediately.
Breckinridge is at Hanover Junction, with other troops. So the war rolls
on toward this capital, and yet Lee's headquarters remain in
Spottsylvania. A few days more must tell the story. If he cuts Grant's
communications, I should not be surprised if that desperate general
attempted a bold dash on toward Richmond. I don't think he could take
the city--and he would be between two fires.
I saw some of the enemy's wounded this morning, brought down in the
cars, dreadfully mutilated. Some had lost a leg and arm--besides
sustaining other injuries. But they were cheerful, and uttered not a
groan in the removal to the hospital.
Flour is selling as high as $400 per barrel, and meal at $125 per
bushel. The roads have been cut in so many places, and so frequently,
that no provisions have come in, except for the army. But the hoarding
speculators have abundance hidden.
The Piedmont Road, from Danville, Va., to Greensborough, is completed,
and now that we have two lines of communication with the South, it may
be hoped that this famine will be of only short duration. They are
cutting wheat in Georgia and Alabama, and new flour will be ground from
the growing grain in Virginia in little more than a month. God help us,
if relief come not speedily! A great victory would be the speediest way.
My garden looks well, but affords nothing yet except salad.
MAY 23D.--Fair and warm, with pleasant breezes.
Gen. Johnston, without a defeat, has fallen back to Calhoun, Ga.
Gen. Lee, without a defeat, has fallen back to Hanover Junction, his
headquarters at Ashland. Grant is said to be worming his way eastward to
the Peninsula, the field occupied by McClellan in 1862. Why, he might
have attained that position without the loss of a man at the outset!
On Saturday night Gen. Butler made the following exploit:
"On Saturday night the enemy renewed his assault, assailing that portion
of our line held principally by Wise's brigade. In some manner our men
had become apprised of the intention of the enemy to make a night
attack, and were fully prepared for it. The enemy were allowed to
advance, our men deliberately reserving their fire until they were
within 20 or 30 yards of them, when they poured into their ranks a most
terrific volley, driving them back with great slaughter. The repulse is
said to have been a most decided success; the enemy were thrown into
great confusion and retreated rapidly.
"The enemy's loss is said to have been very severe, and is estimated at
hardly less than four or five hundred _in killed alone_, while we are
said to have lost none in killed, and some thirty or forty wounded."
There was an immense mail to-day, and yet with my sore eyes I had no aid
from my son, still at the intrenchments. I hinted my desire to have him,
but young Mr. Kean opposed it.
MAY 24TH.--Clear and warm.
No fighting yesterday besides small collisions near Hanover Junction. It
is said to-day that Grant threatens the Central Railroad, on Lee's left.
This is regarded as a serious matter. We want _men_.
An armed guard is now a fixture before the President's house.
Peas were in market on the 18th inst.; price $10 a half peck.
Strawberries are $10 per quart. There has been no meat in market for a
long time, most of the butchers' stalls being closed during the last
three months. Unless government feeds the people here, some of us may
starve.
MAY 25TH.--Sunshine and showers.
Custis is back again, the battalion of clerks being relieved, after
three weeks' service in the field.
Yesterday there was skirmishing between the armies, near Hanover
Junction--25 miles distant from the city.
Nothing of importance from the south side. But our iron-clads are
certainly going down the river--they _say_.
To-day it is thought a battle commenced between Lee and Grant. It will
be, perhaps, a decisive engagement, whenever it does take place. And yet
there is no trepidation in the community; no apparent fear of defeat.
Still, there is some degree of feverish anxiety, as Lee retires nearer
to the capital followed by the enemy. A little delay would make us
stronger, as reinforcements, especially of cavalry, are daily arriving.
The trains run from the city to Lee's headquarters in one hour and a
half.
A letter from Senator Henry, of Tennessee, to the Secretary, suggests
that Forrest's cavalry be now sent to the rear of Sherman's army in
Georgia, to cut off his supplies, etc., resulting in his destruction.
Perhaps this is the purpose. And Lee may have some such design. A few
days will develop important events. May they put an end to this
desolating war.
MAY 26TH.--Sunshine and showers.
Senator Henry's letter was referred to Gen. Bragg, who returned it
to-day with the indorsement that the suggested movement had not escaped
attention, and a good result might soon be looked for. And sure enough,
a dispatch was received from Atlanta to-day, announcing the capture of
some 250 of the enemy's wagons laden with stores!
It is to be hoped that Gen. Lee has some scheme of a similar character,
to relieve Grant of his supply trains. Troops are daily coming hither,
infantry and cavalry, whence in one hour and a half the former reach
Lee's army. The great battle still hangs fire, but to be of greater
magnitude when it does occur.
Gen. Bragg did a good thing yesterday, even while Senator Orr was
denouncing him. He relieved Gen. Winder from duty here, and assigned him
to Goldsborough, N. C. Now if the rogues and cut-throats he persisted in
having about him be likewise dismissed, the Republic is safe! Gen.
Ransom has now full charge of this department.
Mr. Secretary Seddon is sick, and Mr. Assistant Secretary Campbell is
crabbed--Congress not having passed his Supreme Court bill. And if it
were passed, the President would hardly appoint him judge.
It is said one of our iron-clads is out--the rest to follow immediately.
Let Butler beware!
MAY 27TH.--Clouds and sunshine; cooler.
Nothing additional from the West. Several thousand Georgia mounted
troops have arrived during the last 24 hours, in readiness to march to
Lee. One Georgia regiment has 1200, and a South Carolina regiment that
went up this morning 1000 men.
Lee's army is at Ashland--17 miles distant. The enemy are marching down
the Pamunky, north side. They will doubtless cross it, and march through
New Kent and Charles City Counties to the James River, opposite Butler's
army. Grant probably intends crossing his army to the south side, which,
if effected, might lose us Richmond, for the city cannot subsist a week
with its southern communications cut. We should starve.
But Beauregard means to make another effort to dislodge Butler,
immediately. It will probably be a combined movement, the iron clads
co-operating. It is a necessity, and it must be done without delay, no
matter what the cost may be. If Butler remains, the railroads will be
cut. If the city be taken, not only will the iron-clads be lost, but a
large proportion of the army may be cut off from escape. Immense
munitions would certainly fall into the hands of the enemy.
The _Whig_ and _Enquirer_ both denounced Gen. Bragg to-day.
Senator Orr's assault in the Senate on Gen. Bragg was followed by
another from Wigfall, who declared there was a want of confidence in the
President. Mr. Orr said his appointment was discourtesy to the Secretary
of War, whereupon the Secretary fell ill yesterday, but to-day he is
well again. Nevertheless, the Senate voted Gen. B. the salary, etc.
allowed a general in the field.
And Gen. Winder has been treated as cavalierly as he treated me.
Retribution is sure.
The city is excited with rumors. One is that Beauregard, when about to
engage the enemy last week, was ordered by Bragg to evacuate
Petersburg--certainly an insane measure. Gen. Beauregard (so the story
runs) telegraphed the President (who was with him, as I heard) to know
if such an order had his sanction. The President replied that Gen.
Bragg's orders were authorized by him. Beauregard _disregarded_ the
order and fought the battle, saving Petersburg. Then Beauregard tendered
his resignation, which was not accepted. It is also said that the order
was directed to the commandant of the garrison; but the courier was
stopped by Generals Wise and Martin, who gave the paper to Beauregard.
There is another rumor that Bragg's orders caused Lee to fall back; and,
of course, the credulous people here are despondent; some in despair.
There may be some design against the President in all this.
MAY 28TH.--Showers and sunshine.
Grant has crossed the Pamunky, and Lee is at the Yellow Tavern--not more
than _six miles_ from the city. The hostile armies are only a few miles
apart, and the GREAT BATTLE may occur at any time, at any hour; and we
shall hear both the artillery and musketry from my dwelling.
All is quiet on the south side of the river. Nothing from Georgia,
except a short address from Gen. Johnston to the army, stating that,
having the enemy now where he wants him, he will lead the soldiers to
battle.
War and famine develop some of the worst instincts of our nature. For
five days the government has been selling meal, by the peck, for $12:
and yet those who have been purchasing have endeavored to keep it a
secret! And the government turns extortioner, making $45 profit per
bushel out of the necessities of the people!
I saw a dispatch, to-day, from Gen. Johnston to his Chief Commissary, at
Atlanta, ordering him, after reserving ten days' rations, to send the
rest of the stores to Augusta!
It is said Mr. Memminger and certain members of Congress have in
readiness the means of sudden flight, in the event of Grant's forcing
his way into the city.
It is thought, to-day, that Bragg will resign. If he does, then the
President will be humiliated; for the attacks on Bragg are meant
principally for Mr. Davis. But I doubt the story; I don't think the
President will permit Bragg to retire before his enemies, unless affairs
become desperate by the defeat of our army in this vicinity.
MAY 29TH.--Bright and quite cold.
There was skirmishing yesterday evening on the Chickahominy.
The armies are confronting each other, but Grant is moving gradually to
the right of us, as if with an intention to reach the James River; but
probably it is with the view of enveloping us with his superior numbers,
and the GREAT BATTLE may occur at any hour. The train of cars, laden, in
Broad Street, destined a few days ago to transport provisions, etc. to
Gen. Lee's army, are visited hourly by wagons from the army, now in the
immediate vicinity.
This morning the Secretary's time is occupied in giving audience to
citizens who have fled from the vicinity of the enemy, but whose
exaggerated accounts really furnish no reliable information. Of what
benefit, in such a crisis as this, is the tale of desolation in the
track of Grant's army, the destruction of crops, the robbery of children
of their silver cups and spoons, etc.? And yet these are the things
which occupy much time.
MAY 30TH.--Fair and cool; hot at noon.
It is rumored that Mr. Memminger will resign. If he does, it will cause
much rejoicing. Mr. Foote censured him severely in Congress; and moved a
resolution of censure, which was _not_ laid on the table--though moved,
and voted on--but postponed.
Gen. Lee has been a little ill from fatigue, exposure, and change of
water; but was better yesterday, and is confident.
Messrs. Cardoza and Martin, who sell a peck of meal per day to each
applicant for $12, or $48 per bushel, flour at $1.60 per pound, and
beans $3 per quart, are daily beset with a great crowd, white and black.
I do not think they sell for the government, but they probably have
facilities from it. The prices are only about half charged in the shops.
But Messrs. Dunlop and Moucine are selling meal (on their own account, I
believe) at $25 per bushel, or 50 cts. per pound, allowing each white
member of the family about five ounces per day; and selling them twice
per month, or nine pounds per month to each. The rule is to sell to only
the indigent, refugees, etc. My friend James G. Brooks, Clay Street,
informed me this morning that he got half a bushel there. He is rich!
MAY 31ST.--Clear, with hot sun.
Last evening there was some fighting on Lee's right, and 125 prisoners
were sent in.
This morning cannon and musketry could be distinctly heard east of my
dwelling; but at 3 P.M. I have not been able to learn the extent of it
or the result.
But the GREAT BATTLE is imminent. Troops have been coming over from the
south side (Beauregard's) for twenty hours, and marching down Main
Street toward the Williamsburg road. It is doubtless a flank movement
of Beauregard, and an attack on Grant may be expected any hour; and must
occur, I think, to-morrow at furthest.
I have not learned that Butler has retired from his position--and if
not, our communications must be in peril. But no matter, so Grant be
beaten.
All the local troops are ordered to be in readiness to march at a
moment's warning, this evening or night.