Raining gently, and
cool.
As early as 4 A.M.
there was an incessant roar of artillery, the vibrations of which could be felt
in the houses. It could be heard distinctly in all parts of the city. And ever
and anon could be distinguished great crashes of musketry, as if whole
divisions of infantry were firing at the word of command. It continued until 11
o'clock A.M., when it ceased. A dispatch from Lee stated that his line (behind
breastworks, center and left) had been repeatedly assaulted, and every time the
enemy was repulsed. The attack, it was supposed, was made to check a flanking
movement made yesterday afternoon, by Gen. Ewell, on the enemy's left, to cut
his communications with the White House, his base of supplies. No doubt the
slaughter has been great!
The dispatch from
Beauregard indicates that he may be still on the other side of the river. It
may be a ruse de guerre, or it may be that the general's
enemies here in the government) are risking everything to keep him from
participation in the great battles.
Mr. Hunter, being
short and fat, rolls about like a pumpkin. He is everywhere, seeking tidings
from the field. It is said the enemy, at last, has visited his great estates in
Essex County; but he'll escape loss "by hook or by crook.” He has made
enormously by his crops and his mills: nevertheless, he would sacrifice all for
the Presidency—and independence.
The President,
yesterday, forbade details from the Department Battalion to remain in the city.
The Southern Express
Company has bribed the quartermasters, and is at its work again, using fine
horses and stout details that should be in the army. Its wagon was at the
department to-day with a box of bacon for Judge Campbell.
About 800 prisoners
were marched into the city this afternoon, and it is believed many more are on
the way.
Cannonading was
heard again in a northeast direction this evening from 6 till 8 o'clock, when
it ceased-perhaps the prelude to another scene of carnage to-morrow!
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