“Tuscumbia, Ala., Nov. 8th, 1864.“Gen. S. Cooper, A. and I. General.“Gen. Forrest reports on the 5th instant that he was then engaged fighting the enemy at Johnsonville, having already destroyed four gun-boats, of eight guns each, fourteen steamers, and twenty barges, with a large quantity of quartermaster and commissary stores, on the landing and in warehouses, estimated at between seventy-five and one hundred thousand tons. Six gun-boats were then approaching, which he hoped to capture or destroy.“G. T. Beauregard.”
“Tuscumbia, Ala., Nov. 8th, 1864.
“Gen. S. Cooper, A. and I. General.
“Gen. Forrest reports on the 5th instant that he was then engaged fighting the enemy at Johnsonville, having already destroyed four gun-boats, of eight guns each, fourteen steamers, and twenty barges, with a large quantity of quartermaster and commissary stores, on the landing and in warehouses, estimated at between seventy-five and one hundred thousand tons. Six gun-boats were then approaching, which he hoped to capture or destroy.
“G. T. Beauregard.”
November 15th.—Fair and cold; ice. Quiet below; rumors of further successes in the Southwest, but not official.
Congress did nothing of interest yesterday in open session, but spent most of its time in secret session. There will probably be stringent martial law, for the strong hand of unlimited power will be required to correct abuses, repress discontent, and bring into the field the whole military strength of the Confederacy. The large majorities for Lincoln in the United States clearly indicate a purpose to make renewed efforts to accomplish our destruction.
It is now contradicted that Lincoln has called for 1,000,000 men.
Threep.m.Cloudy, and threatening snow.
An attack upon the city seems to be apprehended. All men must now have passes from Mr. Carrington, Provost Marshal, or be liable to arrest in the street. Such are the changes, indicatingpanicon the part of official dignitaries.
November 16th.—Bright and frosty.
This is the day designated by the President for worship, etc., and the offices and places of business are all closed. It is like Sunday, with an occasional report of cannon down the river.
I doubt whether the clerks in the trenches will pray for the President. Compelled tovolunteerunder a threat of removal, they were assured that they would only be called out in times of greaturgency, and then be returned to their offices in a few days. They have now been in the front trenches several months; while the different secretaries are quietly having their kinsmen and favorites detailed back to their civil positions, the poor and friendless are still “left out in the cold.” Many of these have refugee families dependent on them, while those brought in are mostly rich, having sought office merely to avoid service in the field. The battalion, numbering 700, has less than 200 now in the trenches. Hundreds of the local forces, under a sense of wrong, have deserted to the enemy.
Gen. Breckinridge has beaten the enemy at Bull’s Gap, Tenn., taking several hundred prisoners, 6 guns, etc.
Mr. Hunter was at the department early this morning in quest of news.
Gave $75 for a load of coal.
Messrs. Evans & Cogswell, Columbia, S. C., have sent me some of their recent publications: “A Manual of Military Surgery, by I. Julian Chisolm, M.D., 3d edition;” “Digest of the Military and Naval Laws,” by Lester & Bromwell; “Duties of a Judge Advocate, etc.” by Capt R. C. Gilchrist; and “A Map of East Virginia and North Carolina;” all beautifully printed and bound.
November 17th.—Dark and dismal—threatening rain or snow. Quiet below; but we have no papers to-day, yesterday being holiday.
It is rumored that Gen. Sheridan (Federal) is sailing from Washington to reinforce Grant, and that Gen. Early is marching hitherward from the Valley. There may be renewed operations against Richmond, or Grant may penetrate North Carolina. No one knows what will happen a month or a week hence.
Mr. Hunter was again with Mr. Seddon this morning.
Governor Smith’s exemption mill is yet grinding out exemptions, sometimes fifty per day. Constables, department clerks, and sheriffs, commonwealth’s attorneys, commissioners of the revenue, etc. etc., who win his favor, get his certificate of exemption, as necessary for the State administration.
A dispatch from Gen. Wheeler, Jonesborough, November 14th, says Sherman has three corps atAtlanta, and is destroying railroads between him and Marietta, probably intending to move forward—farther South.
Another dispatch from Gen. W., dated 14th inst., Lovejoy’s, Georgia, says scouts from enemy’s rear report that Sherman left Atlanta yesterday morning, with 15th, 17th, and 21st corps, in two columns, one on the Jonesborough, and one on the McDonough Roads—cavalry on his flanks. Many houses have been burned in Rome, Marietta, and Atlanta, and the railroad bridge over Chattanooga River (in his rear)! Enemy advancing this morning. To Gen. Bragg.
Twelvem.Still another dispatch from Gen. Wheeler to Gen. Bragg, dated Jonesborough, 3p.m., 15th inst. “Enemy advanced early this morning with infantry, cavalry, artillery, and wagons—have driven our cavalry back upon this place—strength not yet ascertained, etc.”
Still another dispatch:
“Griffin, Ga., November 16th, 1864.“To Gen. Bragg.“Enemy checked this evening near Bear Creek—enemy evidently marching to Macon.“Jos. Wheeler,Major-General.”
“Griffin, Ga., November 16th, 1864.
“To Gen. Bragg.
“Enemy checked this evening near Bear Creek—enemy evidently marching to Macon.
“Jos. Wheeler,Major-General.”
The dispatches from Gen.Wheelerhave produced no little commotion in the War Office.
Gen. J. E. Johnston’s report of his Georgia campaign concludes by asserting that hedidintend to defend Atlanta; that he retreated before overwhelming numbers; that the President did not favor him with any directions; that Lee retreated before Grant, and everybody praised him for it; that Gen. Hood professed to be his friend, when seeking his removal, or cognizant of the purpose to remove him; and that the vituperation heaped upon him in certain papers seemed to have Executive authorization at Richmond.
The President indorses this growlingly; that it all differs with his understanding of the facts at the time, etc.
November 18th.—Bright, calm, and pleasant.
All quiet below, save our bombardment of Dutch Gap Canal.
The Senate passed a resolution yesterday, calling on the President for a statement of the number of exemptions granted by the Governors. This will, perhaps, startle Governor Smith, of Virginia, who has already kept out of the army at least a thousand.
Perhaps it will hit Governor Brown, of Georgia, also; but Sherman will hit him hardest. He must call out all his fighting people now, or see his State ravaged with impunity.
Both Houses of Congress sit most of the time in secret session, no doubt concocting strong measures under the influence of the existing crisis. Good news only can throw open the doors, and restore the hilarity of the members. When not in session, they usually denounce the President; in session, they are wholly subservient to him.
Hon. R. L. Montague has written to the Secretary of War, on behalf of the entire Virginia delegation, requesting a suspension of the impressment of slaves until further legislation by Congress; what that legislation will be, the President might tell, if he would.
A dispatch from Gen. Wheeler, dated to-day, 12 miles from Forsyth, states that Sherman advances by the most direct route toward Macon, Ga.
My wife presented me to-day an excellent pocket-handkerchief, my old ones being honey-combed and unfit for another washing. Upon inquiry (since the cost of a single handkerchief is now $20), I ascertained it to be a portion of one of my linen shirts bought in London in 1846.
We have now 200 pounds of flour in the house; 1 bushel meal; 1 bushel sweet potatoes; 1 bushel Irish potatoes; 3 half pecks white beans; 4 pumpkins; 10 pounds beef; 2 pounds butter, and 3 pounds sugar, with salt, etc. This seems like moderate stores for a family of seven, but it is a larger supply than we ever had before, and will suffice for a month. At the market price, they would cost $620. Add to this 1½ loads coal and a quarter cord of wood—the first at $75, the last at $80—the total is $762.50. This sum in ordinary times, and in specie, would subsist my family twelve months.
November 19th.—Rained all night, and still rains. All quiet below, save the occasional bomb thrown by our iron-clads.
Gen. and Hon. R. K. Wright, of Georgia, is said to have gone to Washington to negotiate a peace for Georgia.
A dispatch from Gen. Wheeler, dated yesterday, 12 miles from Forsyth, says: “I think definite orders should be sent to officers in command here, as to the line of policy to be pursued—particularlyas to defending Macon, Augusta, or Columbus. If not to be defended, government stores should be removed, on enemy’s approach, if possible. An officer should be sent to command everything, who knows the views, wishes, and plans of the government.” I think so too!
The papers think that Grant is about to try again to force his way into Richmond, as soon as the weather will permit.
We had a delicious treat of persimmons to-night—a quart bought for a dollar. They were delicious, and we enjoyed them hugely. Also a quart of apples, for which we paid a dollar.
November 20th, Sunday.—Rained all night—raining this morning. A dispatch from Gen. Wheeler, 18th, at Forsyth, Ga., says: “The enemy rapidly advancing.”
It is said Gov. Brown has called out the menen masse. I think Sherman is in danger.
Mr. Foote made what is called “a compromise speech” in Congress yesterday. But although there is vacillation in the government, no compromise measures will be tolerated yet—if ever. Everything still depends upon events in the field. I think the government at Washington and the people of the United States are very weary of the war, and that peace of some sort must ensue. We shall be recognized by European powers upon the first symptoms of exhaustion in the United States; and there soon will be such symptoms, if we can only keep up a determined resistance.
Besides, the seizure of our cruiser Florida in a neutral port (Brazil) will furnish a pretext for a quarrel with the United States by the maritime powers.
I am amused by our fireside conversations at night. They relate mostly to the savory dishes we once enjoyed, and hope to enjoy again.
Gen. Butler’s speech in New York, suggesting that the rebels be allowed a last chance for submission, and failing to embrace it, that their lands be divided among the Northern soldiers, has a maddening effect upon our people.
November 21st.—Wet, dark, and dismal. Quiet below.
In Congress, Mr. Staples, of Virginia, unfortunately exhibited a statement obtained from the Bureau of Conscription, to the effect that while 1400 State officers, etc were exempted in Virginia, there were 14,000 in North Carolina. This producedacrimonious debate, which is not the end of it, I fear. I don’t believe the statement. Gov. Smith, of Virginia, is exempting a full share of constables, etc. etc. The Bureau of Conscription strikes, perhaps, at Gen. Bragg, a North Carolinian. It is not the end.
An anonymous letter to Gov. Bonham states that Capt. Hugener and all his officers at Fort Sumter are drunkards or gamblers, and that the place is in great danger. Gov. B. sends the letter to the President, who directs the Secretary of War to make inquiry, etc. Perhaps it will be done in time—since the fall of Plymouth.
Gold, to-day, brings $40 for $1.
Oak wood sells to-day at $100 per cord.
A large amount of apple-brandy has been made this year. A lady, whose husband is a prisoner in the North, writes to the Secretary, asking the release of her apple-brandy (in Virginia) from the clutches of the impressing officer. She and her daughters had distilled 500 gallons, upon which they depended to procure other supplies, etc. Brandy is selling at $75 per gallon—$37,500. Pretty well for the old woman and her three daughters! Apples are worth $100 per barrel; but the currency (Confederate) is nearly worthless.
November 22d.—Rained in torrents last night; cold this morning and cloudy.
All quiet below. But there was an alarm, night before last, growing out of a stampede of some 50 of the enemy’s beeves. They charged upon our line, regardless of the fire of cannon and musketry, and were all captured after penetrating our works. Brave cattle!
Gov. Vance writes that if Wilmington be attacked by a large force in the rear of Fort Fisher, its fall is inevitable, unless two brigades of veteran troops be sent from Gen. Lee’s army. He says the defense of Wilmington is as important as that of Richmond. The President directs the Secretary of War to communicate with Gen. Lee on the subject.
We learn that Gen. Grant is on a visit to his family at Burlington, N. J.; and yet the departmental troops (clerks) are still kept in the trenches. It is said thePresident’s familykeep them there by the most imploring appeals to Gen. Lee, and that the President himself does not feel altogether safe while the Federal army is so near him. His house is on the side of the city most exposed, if asudden attack were made, of which, however, there seems to be no danger at present. Several brigades of Gen. Early’s troops have arrived from the Valley.
Gold sells to-day at $42 for $1. And it rises in the United States. This produces trepidation in the cabinet.
Snowed afewminutes to-day, 4p.m.The clouds are breaking—cold.
What appetites we have! Shin-soup and bean-soup alternately are relished with shark-like appetites.
November 23d.—Snowed last night three inches. Clear and cold this morning; ground frozen.
Had a dream last night—that meeting a few men in mywood and coal-house, I nominated R. Tyler for the Presidency, and it was well received. I must tell this to Mr. T.
I narrated my dream to Mr. T. Before I left, he said a clerkshipwas at the disposal of my son Thomas; but Thomas is clerk in the conscription service, getting rations, etc. etc., better than the $4000 per annum. But still that dream may be realized. He is the son of President Tyler, deceased.
John Mitchel is now editor of theExaminer, and challengedMr. Foote yesterday—the note was borne by Mr. Swan, of Tennessee, Mr. Foote’s colleague. Mr. Foote would not receive it; and Mr. S. took offense and assaulted Mr. F. in his own house, when Mrs. F. interposed and beat Mr. S. away.
Gen. Winder has been appointed, byGen. Cooper, commander of all prisons east of the Mississippi.
Gen. Winder has been made Commissary-General of all prisons and prisoners of war. The Bureau of Conscription is yet sustained in power. All this is done by Gen. Cooper,—unwise, probablyfatalmeasures!
November 24th.—Clear and frosty. Ice half an inch thick this morning. All quiet below.
Col. St. John, Niter and Mining Bureau, required 13,000 men to furnish ammunition, etc.
Col. Northrop, Commissary-General, reports only 15 days’ bread rations in Richmond for 100,000 men, and that we must rely upon supplies hereafter from the Carolinas and Virginia alone. The difficulty is want of adequate transportation, of course. The speculators and railroad companies being in partnership, very naturallyexclude the government from the track. The only remedy, the only salvation, in my opinion, is for the government to take exclusive control of the railroads, abate speculation, and change most of the quartermasters and commissaries.
Hon. J. B. Clarke proposed a resolution of inquiry in the House of Representatives, which was adopted, calling for the number and name of employees in the departments, and the State they were appointed from. Virginia has more than half of them.
Gen. Cooper, the Adjutant-General, Northern by birth, turned out twenty of his eighty clerks yesterday, to replace them with ladies.
It is said and believed that Sherman’s cavalry has reached Milledgeville, and destroyed the public buildings, etc.
We have nothing from Wheeler since the 18th inst.
November 25th.—Bright and frosty.
A report from the Bureau of Conscription shows after all that only some 3000 men have been sent to the army during the last two months, under General Order 77, revoking details, etc. I don’t wonder, for there has been the natural confusion consequent upon a conflict of authority between Gen. Kemper and the Bureau of Conscription. About as many details have been made by the one authority as have been enrolled by the other.
November 26th.—Clear and frosty.
The following dispatch was received to-day from Gen. Bragg:
“Augusta, Nov. 25th, 1864.“Arrived late last night, and take command this morning. We learn from Gen. Wagner, who holds the Oconee Railroad bridge, that the enemy has not crossed the river in any force. He has concentrated in Milledgeville, and seems to be tending South. Our cavalry, under Wheeler, is in his front, and has been ordered to destroy every vestige of subsistence and forage as it retires; to hang upon his flanks, and retard his progress by every possible means. I am informed the brigades from Southwest Virginia have joined Wheeler. President’s dispatch of 23d just received.“Braxton Bragg,General.”
“Augusta, Nov. 25th, 1864.
“Arrived late last night, and take command this morning. We learn from Gen. Wagner, who holds the Oconee Railroad bridge, that the enemy has not crossed the river in any force. He has concentrated in Milledgeville, and seems to be tending South. Our cavalry, under Wheeler, is in his front, and has been ordered to destroy every vestige of subsistence and forage as it retires; to hang upon his flanks, and retard his progress by every possible means. I am informed the brigades from Southwest Virginia have joined Wheeler. President’s dispatch of 23d just received.
“Braxton Bragg,General.”
When I carried this dispatch to the Secretary I found him sitting in close conference with Mr. Hunter, both with rather lugubrious faces.
Another dispatch from Bragg:
“Augusta, Nov. 25th, 8p.m.“The enemy has crossed the Oconee; was met this morning, in force, at Buffalo Creek, near Sandersville. His movements from that point will determine whether he designs attacking here or on Savannah.”
“Augusta, Nov. 25th, 8p.m.
“The enemy has crossed the Oconee; was met this morning, in force, at Buffalo Creek, near Sandersville. His movements from that point will determine whether he designs attacking here or on Savannah.”
Hon. I. T. Leach from North Carolina, yesterday introducedsubmissionresolutions in the House of Representatives, which were voted down, of course,—Messrs. Logan and Turner, of North Carolina, however, votingforthem. A party of that sort is forming, and may necessitate harsh measures.
The President orders detail of fifty men forexpress company.I feared so!
November 27th.—Cloudy and warmer; slight rain. Nothing from Bragg this morning. Nothing from below the city.
When I entered the Secretary’s room this morning, I found him as grave as usual. L. Q. Washington, son of Peter Washington, once a clerk under President Tyler (and he still remains in the United States), and grandson of Lund Washington, who, we learn by one of the published letters of Gen. Washington, was his overseer, with no traceable relationship to his family, was seated with him. He is chief clerk to Mr. Benjamin, a sinecure position in the State Department. He was placed there by Mr. Hunter, after writing a series of communications for theExaminer, as Mr. Pollard informed me, denunciatory of Mr. Stephens, Vice-President Confederate States. Mr. Kean and Mr. Shepherd, the clean chief clerk, were also present, enjoying the Hon. Secretary’s confidence. They are all comparativelyyoung men, whom the Secretary has not assigned to positions in the field, althoughmenare alone wanted to achieve independence. They were discussing a resolution of Congress, calling for the names, ages, etc. of the civil and military officers employed by the Secretary in Richmond, or it might have been the subject of the removal of the government, or the chances of success, etc., or the President’s appointment of Gen. Bragg to command the army in Georgia, or Mr. Hunter’s prospects for the Presidency. No matter what.
It is a dismal day, and a settled vexation is on the faces of many of the officials. But if the time should come for flight, etc., I predictmany will have abundance of funds in Europe. The quartermasters, commissaries, etc. will take care of themselves by submission. The railroad companies have already taken care of themselves by their partnership with the speculators. The express company bribes all branches of the government, and I fear it hasobligedsome of the members of the President’s military or domestic family.
By a report from the Niter and Mining Bureau, it appears that thirteen furnaces of the thirty odd in Virginia have ceased operations. Several have been destroyed by the enemy; the ore and fuel of others have become exhausted; and those in blast threaten to cease work for want of hands, the men being put in the army.
November 28th.—Calm and warm; clouds and sunshine, without wind.
All quiet below. It is reported that one of our picket boats in the James River deserted last night. It is said the crew overpowered the officers and put them ashore, and then the boat rowed down to the enemy.
I am informed by Capt. Warner that there are 12,000 graves of Federal prisoners at Andersonville, Ga. That climate is fatal to them; but the government cannot feed them here, and the enemy won’t exchange.
A dispatch from Gen. Bragg:
“Augusta, November 27th, 1864.—We have lost communication with the front. A small cavalry raid cut the Savannah Railroad and telegraph, this morning, at Brier Creek, twenty-six miles from here. Gen. Wheeler was, yesterday, confronting the enemy’s infantry at Sandersville. An officer, who left Macon on the 23d, states that one corps of the enemy was still confronting us there; our force not exceeding 5000, nearly all militia. The force here, including all available reserves, does not exceed 6000 effectives: only one battery. I am not yet advised from Charleston and Savannah, but know the means are small. Neither point could long resist the enemy’s whole force; hence my remarks about concentration. Gen. Hardee has gone to Savannah. Wheeler will continue to confront and harass the enemy. I have not learned the strength of his command. He estimates the enemy’s force at about 30,000.”
Gen. Beauregard has published a short proclamation, sayinghe will soon arrive to the rescue in Georgia. Here, then, will be war between the two B’s—Bragg and Beauregard; and the President will be as busy as a bee. Meantime, Sherman may possess the land at pleasure.
A long letter (twenty-five pages) from Gov. Brown, Georgia, came to hand to-day, combating, in replication, one from the Secretary relating to calling out all the militia ofGeorgia, etc.State rightsand the Constitution are discussedin extenso, and many a hard blow is aimed at the President. The Governor regards the Secretary as merely the instrument or head clerk of the President, whom he sneers at occasionally. But he denounces asvilethe President himself,and refuses to obey the call. What he will do with the militia must soon be known, for Sherman isthere.
A great stir among theofficerson bureau and department duty in Richmond! Congress has called on the President for a list of all commissioned officers here, their ages, etc., and how many of them are fit for duty in the field. This will be dodged, of course, if possible.
November 29th.—Clear, and warm as summer almost.
Another dispatch from Bragg:
“Augusta, November 28th, 1864—On the 26th instant, the enemy started a heavy cavalry force in this direction, from his main body near Sandersville; Gen. Wheeler promptly following, leaving a portion of his force to confront Sherman. Kilpatrick reached vicinity of Waynesborough yesterday, where Wheeler overtook and attacked him. A running fight has continued to this time; the advantage with us. We are driving them toward Millen. Young’s command has just arrived, and will go forward to Wheeler, who will, I hope, be able to mount most of them from his captures. Devastation marks the enemy’s route. Hear nothing from the movements of the enemy’s infantry, since Wheeler left their front. I fear they may cross the Savannah, and make for Beaufort. It is perfectly practicable.”
The number of deserters, under General Order 65, received here and sent to Abingdon, Va., is 1224 men.
Senator Waldo P. Johnson, Missouri, told me he would move, to-day, to allow the civil officers, etc. to buy rations and clothes of government, at schedule prices. This would be better than an increase of salary.
No movements below, to-day, that I hear of.
Gen. Jos. E. Johnston was at the department to-day, and was warmly greeted by his friends. If Sherman’s campaign should be a success, Johnston will be a hero; if the reverse, he will sink to rise no more. A sad condition, for one’s greatness to depend upon calamity to his country!
November 30th.—Clear, and warm as summer. No fires.
It is reported that Gen. Hood is still marching North, and is near Nashville.
The following telegrams were received this morning:
“Augusta, November 29th, 1864.—It is reported,viaSavannah, the enemy, with infantry and artillery, entered Millen yesterday. Wheeler is rapidly pursuing Kilpatrick, who retreats in that direction from Waynesborough.—B. B.”
“Augusta, November 29th, 1864.—6½p.m.—Gen. Jones telegraphs from Charleston: ‘Ten (10) gun-boats with transports landing troops at Boykins on Broad River. Four gun-boats with transports and barges are, by this time, at Mackay’s Point, junction of Pocotaligo with Broad River. I am sending all assistance from here, and think we must make the struggle near the coast.’ As this movement relieves Wilmington, might not some of the North Carolina reserves be sent to Gen. Jones?—B. Bragg.”
The following items were in the papers this morning:
“Negro Pickets.—Monday morning negro pickets were placed in front of Gen. Pickett’s division. Our men, taking it as an insult, yesterday fired upon them, causing a stampede among them. Their places have been supplied with white Yankees, and the lines have resumed the usual quiet.
“Two negroes, captured by Gen. Hunter in the Valley last summer, and forced into the Yankee army, deserted yesterday and came into Gen. Pickett’s lines, and were brought over to this city.”
“Capture of Gen. Pryor.—TheExpressgives the following account of the capture of the Hon. Roger A. Pryor, on Monday morning:
“While riding along the lines on our right, he stopped at one of our vidette posts, and left his horse and private arms with one or two other articles in charge of the pickets, stated that he intended, as was often his custom, to go forward and exchangepapers with the enemy’s videttes. He advanced in the direction of the Yankee lines, flourishing a paper in his hand, in token of his object, and after proceeding some distance was met by a Yankee officer. An exchange of papers was effected, and Gen. Pryor had turned to retrace his steps, when he was suddenly seized by two or three armed men, who were lying in ambush, and hurried away. The whole transaction, we understand, was witnessed by some of our men, but at too great a distance to render any assistance. Gen. Pryor had frequently exchanged papers with the enemy, and his name and character had, no doubt, been reported to them. They resolved to have him, by fair means or foul, and descended to the basest treachery to accomplish their purpose.
“We trust that some notice may be taken of the matter by our military authorities, and every effort used to secure his early return. During the last few months the general has been acting as an independent scout, in which capacity he has rendered valuable service.”
Desertions.—Bragg and Kilpatrick.—Rents.—Gen. Winder’s management of prisoners.—Rumored disasters in Tennessee.—Prices.—Progress of Sherman.—Around Richmond.—Capture of Fort McAlister.—Rumored death of the President.—Yankee line of spies.—From Wilmington and Charleston.—Evacuation of Savannah.
Desertions.—Bragg and Kilpatrick.—Rents.—Gen. Winder’s management of prisoners.—Rumored disasters in Tennessee.—Prices.—Progress of Sherman.—Around Richmond.—Capture of Fort McAlister.—Rumored death of the President.—Yankee line of spies.—From Wilmington and Charleston.—Evacuation of Savannah.
December 1st.—Bright and warm.
It is said there is a movement of the enemy menacing our works on the north side of the river. There was shelling down the river yesterday and day before, officially announced by Gen. Lee—two of the enemy’s monitors retired.
Gen. Longstreet says “over 100 of Gen. Pickett’s men are in the guard-house for desertion, and that the cause of it may be attributed to the numerous reprieves, no one being executed for two months.” Gen. Lee indorses on the paper: “Desertion is increasing in the army, notwithstanding all my efforts to stop it. I think a rigid execution of the law is mercy in the end. The great wantin our army is firm discipline.” The Secretary of War sent it to the President “for his information.” The President sent it back with the following biting indorsement: “When deserters are arrested they should be tried, and if the sentences are reviewed and remitted, that is not a proper subject for the criticism of a military commander.—Jeff. Davis.November 29th, 1864.”
Another dispatch from Gen. Bragg:
“Augusta, November 30th, 1864.—Following just received from Major-Gen. Wheeler:‘Four Miles West Buckhead Church, November 29th, 9p.m.—We fought Gen. Kilpatrick all night and all day, charging him at every opportunity. Enemy fought stubbornly, and left a considerable number of their killed. He stampeded, and came near capturing Kilpatrick twice; but having a fleet horse, he escaped, bareheaded, leaving his hat in our hands. Our own loss about 70, including the gallant Gen. Robertson, severely wounded. Our troops all acted handsomely.’
“Gen. Robertson has arrived here. His left arm is badly broken at the elbow, but he is doing well.—B. B.”
Another dispatch of the same date: “To establish our communications west, I have ordered the immediate repair of the Georgia Railroad to Atlanta. With the exception of bridges, the damage is reported as slight. We should also have a line of telegraph on that route.—B. B.”
I succeeded to-day in buying of Government Quartermaster (Major Ferguson) four yards of dark-gray cloth, at $12 per yard, for a full suit. The merchants ask $125 per yard—a saving of $450. I hope to have it cut and made by one of the government tailors, for about $50, trimmings included. A citizen tailor asks $350!
The Senate passed a bill, yesterday, increasing my salary and Custis’s $500, which we don’t thank them for unless we can buy rations, etc. at schedule prices. The money is worthless when we go into the open market.
My landlord, Mr. King, has gone into the grocery business; and, although he did not raise the rent for the present year, still asked more upon my offer to pay the amount of the first quarter to-day—$500, six months ago, were really worth more than $1000 to-day. At that time I acknowledged the house would bring more than $500. To-day it would rent for more than $1000. He leftit to me to do what was right. I think it right to pay $800 or $1000, and will do so.
This evening our servant stepped into the yard just in time to save some clothes drying on the line. A thief was in the act of stealing them, and made his escape, springing over the fence into the alley.
December 2d.—Warm, and raining moderately.
My landlord gets $400 of the $500 increase of my salary.
Dispatches from Gen. Bragg:
“Augusta, December 1st, 1864.—Following received from Lieut.-Gen. R. Taylor, Savannah, Ga.: ‘Gen. Hardee is at Grahamville. No fighting there since yesterday evening, when the enemy was driven five miles, leaving their dead upon the field.—B. B.’”
Another:
“Augusta, December 1st, 1864, 12m.—The (enemy’s) cavalry having been driven in, the enemy’s main force was yesterday found near Louisville, with strong outposts in this direction. They have secured large supplies in the country; but our cavalry is now all up, and it is hoped they will be prevented to a great extent in the future. The report from Savannah, of the enemy’s entrance into Millen, on the 27th, was premature. Telegraphic communication was reopened to Savannah by that route yesterday. The enemy is just now reported as at Station 9, on Central Railroad, advancing.—B. B.”
During the last month, 100 passports were given to leave the Confederate States by Provost Marshal Carrington and War Department.
Mr. G. B. Lamar, Savannah, Ga., tenders his services to go to New York and purchase supplies for our prisoners in the hands of the enemy, and to negotiate the sale of 1000 bales of cotton, etc.
Twelvem.Heavy and pretty rapid shelling is heard down the river.
Col. Chandler, Inspecting Officer, makes an ugly report of Gen. Winder’s management of the prisons in Georgia. Brig.-Gen. Chilton appends a rebuking indorsement on Gen. W.’s conduct. The inspector characterizes Gen. W.’s treatment of the prisoners as barbarous, and their condition as a “hell on earth.” And Gen. W. says his statements are “false.”
December 3d.—Very warm—clouds and sunshine, like April.
Roger A. Pryor, who resigned his brigadiership, and has been acting as ascout(private), fell into the hands of the enemy the other day while exchanging newspapers with their pickets. They have him at Washington, and the United States newspapers say he makes revelations of a sad state of affairs in Georgia, etc. This is doubtless erroneous.
A “peace resolution” has been introduced in the North Carolina Legislature.
Hon. Mr. Foote yesterday introduced a resolution in Congress, calling for a convention of the States—or appointment of commissioners from the States. Voted down by a large majority.
Gen. Rosser (two brigades) made a descent, a few days ago, on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, capturing some nine guns altogether, including four siege, which he spiked. The others he brought off, with 800 prisoners. He destroyed 200 wagons and a large amount of quartermaster and ordnance stores.
Per contra. Grant has pounced upon one of our depots at Stony Creek, Weldon Railroad, getting some 80 prisoners, and destroying a few stores. It is said he still holds the position—of some importance.
Gen. Ewell still thinks the aspect here is “threatening.”
Brig.-Gen. Chilton, Inspector-General, has ordered investigations of the fortunes of bonded officers, who have become rich during the war.
A strong effort has been made to have Gen. Ripley removed from Charleston. He is a Northern man, and said to be dissipated. Senator Orr opposes the change; the Secretary recommends his retention, and the President indorses: “I prefer that Gen. Ripley should remain.—J. D.”
Sunday, December 4th.—Bright, clear, and warm.
A dispatch from Gen. Bragg. “Augusta, December 3d, 6p.m.—A strong force of the enemy’s cavalry and infantry advanced from Louisville and encamped last night six miles from Waynesborough. They turned off this morning toward Savannah. Our cavalry is pressing in the rear, and all available means is being thrown to their front by rail. There is time yet for any assistance which can be spared, to be sent by way of Charleston.—B. B.”
The Northern papers say our army under Hood in Tennesseehas met with a great disaster. We are still incredulous—although it may be true. If so, the President will suffer, and Johnston and Beauregard will escape censure—both being supplanted in the command by a subordinate.
Brig.-Gen. Preston is still directing orders to Col. Shields, who is under the command of Major-Gen. Kemper, and the conflict of conscription authorities goes on, while the country perishes. Preston is a South Carolina politician—Kemper a Virginian. Mr. Secretary Seddon leans to the former.
The law allowing exemptions to owners of a certain number of slaves is creating an antislavery party. The non-slaveholders will not long fight for the benefit of such a “privileged class.” There is madness in our counsels!
We are still favored by Providence in our family. We have, at the market prices, some $800 worth of provisions, fuel, etc., at the beginning of winter, and my son Thomas is well clad and has his order for a month’s rations of beef, etc., which we get as we want it at the government shop near at hand in Broad Street. His pay and allowances are worth some $4500 per annum.
Major Ferguson having got permission of the Quartermaster-General to sell me a suit of cloth—there being a piece too dark for the army, I got four yards, enough for coat, pants, and vest, at $12 per yard—the price in the stores is $125; and I have the promise of the government tailor to make it up for some $30 or $40, the ordinary price being $350; the trimmings my family will furnish—if bought, they would cost $100. Tom has bought a new black coat, made before the war, for $175, the peace price $15, in specie, equivalent to $600. And my daughter Anne has made three fine bonnets (for her mother, sister, and herself), from the debris of old ones; the price of these would be $700. So I fear not but we shall be fed and clad by the providence of God.
December 5th.—Bright and beautiful.
Anne Samuels and many other ladies, Harrisonburg, Virginia, have petitioned the government for authority to organize themselves into a regiment for local defense.
Great excitement was produced in the House of Representatives (Congress) this morning by the entrance of a lady who proceeded vigorously to cowhide the Hon. Mr. V——, from Missouri.
Congress has passed a resolution declaring that it was not meant, in calling for the ages of the clerks in the departments, to include the ladies.
Vice-President Stephens has arrived in the city.
Our people think, in the Federal accounts of a victory over Gen. Hood, at Franklin, Tenn., they perceive a Confederate victory. It is understood that the enemy fell back upon Nashville after the battle, pursued by Hood.
We are also hopeful of the defeat of Sherman—a little delay on his part will render it pretty certain. If it should occur, will it give us peace?
TheTribunesays President Lincoln is more determined than ever to restore the Union. But disaster will surely dishearten either side—that is, the people.
The following dispatch has been received from Gen. Bragg:
“Augusta, December 4th, 1864.—The column is moving on what is known as Eastern Road, to Savannah. There are several ferries from the mouth of ---- Creek to Charleston and Savannah Railroad bridge—none below that. Gen. Hardee reports he is patrolling the river with a gun-boat. I have had all ferry boats destroyed, and ordered all roads to and from the river to be broken up and blockaded by felling heavy timber. The roads are all passed by causeways to the river on both sides over dense swamps. None of enemy’s forces remain near Macon; and from best information I can obtain, it is thought all of ours have left there for Savannah. The Georgia militia, who were on Central Railroad, moved back toward Savannah, and at last accounts were at Station 4½; our cavalry, however, far in advance of them.—B. B.”
At night—mended broken china and glassware again with white lead, very successfully. Such ware can hardly be bought at all—except by the rich.
December 6th.—Bright and beautiful. Indian summer apparently.
All quiet below—but it is anticipated by some that a battle will occur to-day, or in a day or so.
The enemy’s negro troops have been brought to this side of the river, and are in full view on picket duty.
The Signal Bureau reports a large number of transportsdescending the Potomac a few days ago; probably Sheridan’s army, to reinforce Grant.
And yet our conscription superintendents, under orders, are busily engaged furloughing and detailing the rich slaveowners! It is developing a rapidly growingEmancipation party, for it is the establishment of a privileged class, and may speedily prove fatal to our cause. Our leaders aremad, and will be destroyed, if they persist in this policy.
December 7th.—Raining, and warm.
It is said several hundred of the prisoners taken by Rosser in the Valley escaped, on the way to Richmond. A relaxation of vigilance always follows success. How long can this war last?
Hon. Mr. Staples procured four and two months’ details yesterday for two rich farmers, Messrs. McGehee and Heard, both rosy-faced, robust men, and yet found for “light duty” by a medical board. Thus we go. The poor and weakly are kept in the trenches, to desert the first opportunity.
It is said a dispatch came from Bragg yesterday (I saw it not) stating that Wheeler and some infantry had a sharp battle with Sherman’s advance, near Millen, in which the latter suffered greatly. But reinforcements coming up, our forces fell back in order, disputing the way.
Tea is held at $100 per pound! Wood still $100 per cord.
I saw Gen. Rains to-day. He says he has over 2000 shell torpedoes planted along our lines around Richmond and Petersburg.
Col. Bayne reports the importation of 6400 packages salted meats, fish, coffee, preserved vegetables, from Nassau, Bermuda, and Halifax,since October 1st, 1864, in fourteen different steamers.
December 8th.—Rained hard in the night; clear and pleasant in the morning.
A letter from John T. Bourne, St. Georges, Bermuda, says he has some 1800 barrels government gunpowder under his care, of which he desires to be relieved.
Gen. Lee sent to the Secretary the following dispatch this morning: “2d and 5th corps, Gregg’s division of [enemy’s] cavalry, are moving South, on Jerusalem Plank Road. Cavalry reached Sussex Court House at 7p.m.yesterday. Hill andHampton [Confederate States generals] are following. Appearances indicate they are moving against Weldon, where I am concentrating all the depot guards I can.
“R. E. Lee,General.
“Petersburg, Dec. 8th, 1864.”
There are rumors of the enemy having effected a lodgment on the south side of the river, between Howell and Drewry’s Bluff. This may be serious. I do not learn (yet) that the Dutch Gap Canal is finished; but the enemy landed from barges in the fog. Gen. Lee, some weeks ago, designated such a movement and lodgment as important and embarrassing, probably involving the holding of Petersburg.
Nothing from Bragg.
One of Gen. Early’s divisions is passing through the city toward Petersburg.
December 9th.—Cold and cloudy; surface of the ground frozen.
Cannon heard below. More of Gen. Early’s corps arriving. The papers contradict the report that Howlett’s Battery has been taken. The opinion prevails that a battle will occur to-day.
It appears that but few of the enemy’s forces were engaged in the demonstration on the south side, below Drewry’s Bluff, and no uneasiness is felt on account of it.
We have nothing so far to-day from the enemy’s column marching toward Weldon.
Gov. Smith, in his message to the Legislature now in session, recommends the employment of negro troops, even if it results in their emancipation. He also suggests an act, putting into the army civil officers of the State under forty-five years of age. At the same time he is exempting officers (State)under forty-five, and there is no compulsion on him.
A dispatch from Gen. Lee last night states that from the great number of wagons taken by the enemy on the Weldon Road, the movement is formidable, and indicates a purpose of prolonged operations.
At night—and snowing—a terrible night for the poor soldiers in the field!
December 10th.—Snowed two inches last night. Cloudy and damp this morning.
Guns were heard down the river last night at a late hour. Perhaps it was nothing more than shelling the enemy’s canal.
We have nothing yet authentic from Georgia; but many rumors of much fighting.
It is said Gen. Hampton has got in front of the enemy’s column at the Weldon Railroad, and is driving them back. Gen. Hill, it is presumed, isthisside of them.
It is also reported that Gen. Longstreet is now (12m.) attacking the enemy onthisside of the river, and driving them. Distant guns can be heard southeast of us, and it may be true.
Major Cummings, Confederate States, Georgia, dispatches that the railroad between Atlanta and Chattanooga should be repaired immediately, to bring off supplies from Middle Tennessee. Gen. Bragg concurs.
The following was received from Gen. Bragg to-day, 11a.m.:
“Augusta, December 10th, 1864.—The following dispatch is just received from Gen. Wheeler, twenty-seven miles from Savannah, 10p.m., 8th December. Enemy are still moving toward Savannah, obstructing the road in the rear, and resisting warmly this morning. I cannot learn that any have crossed the Savannah River. I hear artillery firing, far in my front; do not know what it means: 14th corps and Kilpatrick’s cavalry on the river road; 15th on middle ground road; and 17th, and probably 20th, on Central Railroad.
“I think the force on the right bank of Ogeechee must be small.”
December 11th, Sunday.—Cloudy and melting—snow vanishing rapidly. The thousand and one rumors of great achievements of Gen. Longstreet on the north side of the river seem to have been premature. Nothing official of any advantage gained over the enemy near the city has been received so far as I can learn. Gen. Lee, no doubt, directed Longstreet to make demonstrations on the enemy’s lines near the city, to ascertain their strength, and to prevent more reinforcements being sent on the south side, where the struggle will occur, if it has not already occurred.
There is no doubt that the enemy’s column sent toward Weldon has been checked, and great things are reported of Gen. Hampton’s cavalry.
A battle must certainly occur near Savannah, Ga. Shermanmustassail our lines, or perish between two fires.
President Lincoln’s message to the Congress of the United States, republished in our papers, produces no marked effect. His adherence to a purpose of emancipation of the slaves, and his employment of them in his armies, will suffice for an indefinite prolongation of the war, and perhaps result in the employment of hundreds of thousands of slaves in our armies. The intimation, however, that all applications for “pardon,” etc. have been and are still favorably entertained, will certainly cause many of our croakers who fall into the lines of the United States forces to submit. Others, though so disposed, have not an opportunity to signify their submission. But everything depends upon events in the field.
December 12th.—Clear and cold. Ice half an inch thick.
Gen. Longstreet is again in the old lines on this side of the river. The reconnoissance, however, is said to have been successful. Only a few were killed and wounded on either side.
And Grant’s column was turned back from Meherrin bridge. Results of the movement unimportant, and the supposition is that both armies will now go into winter quarters, after a taste of this rigorous weather.
It is rumored and believed (though I have seen no dispatch to that effect) that Sherman has beaten and out-manœuvred our generals, and got into communication with the Federal fleet.
I read President Lincoln’s message carefully last night. By its commissions and omissions on Mexican affairs, I think he means to menace Louis Napoleon, who mayspeak outJanuary 1st, 1865. Lincoln says:
“Mexico continues to be a theater of civil war. While our political relations with that country have undergone no change, we have at the same time strictly maintained neutrality between the belligerents.”
And his reference to England is so equivocal, and his grouping of the Central and South AmericanRepublicsso prominent, and the boastful allusion to the “inexhaustible” resources of the United States, may be considered as a premeditated threat to Great Britain.
A “confidential” letter came in to-day from Mr. Benjamin to the Secretary of War.
Dr. Powell has sent us a dozen ruta baga turnips, and a coupleof quarts of excellent persimmons, which the family enjoys most thankfully.
Dispatches from Lee: