Clear and cool.
To-day, heavy firing
is heard on the south side of the river. It is believed a general engagement is
in progress.
It is the
anniversary of the battle of WATERLOO. If we gain the day, it will end the war.
It is now said Gen.
Early (with Ewell's corps) has reached Lynchburg, where a battle must occur.
Gen. Ewell has been
assigned to the command of this department, Gen. Ransom going West.
We have advices (4
P.M.) of a terrific battle at Petersburg last evening, which raged until 11
o'clock at night. The slaughter of the enemy is reported as unprecedented. Our
troops repulsed the assailants at all points but one, and that, which was
carried by the enemy, was soon recovered.
At 11 P.M. Lee's
reinforcements came up, and it is supposed, from the sounds of cannon, that the
battle was recommenced at dawn to-day, and continued all day. The result has
not transpired. This tremendous conflict must be followed by
decisive results. If Lee and Beauregard gain the day, peace must follow
speedily, I think. If they are beaten, Richmond's fall can hardly be averted.
Our shattered army could hardly get back across the Appomattox, with Butler's
army interposed between—if he still has his army at Bermuda Hundred.
