Brigadier General George G. Meade to Margaretta Sergeant Meade, January 26, 1862

CAMP PIERPONT, VA., January 26, 1862.

To-day being Sunday, I had an invitation from General McCall to dine with him, which I accepted, and had a very pleasant time discussing matters and things in general. McCall thinks France and England will recognize the Southern Confederacy and interfere in their behalf. I am not of this opinion, unless we should fail in the next six months to make any further progress in suppressing the revolution than we have as yet done. I cannot believe that eight millions of people, however great their spirit and individual gallantry may be, can hold at bay twenty millions, unless the latter are dastards and ignoramuses. If our men will fight, as men ought to do who pretend to be soldiers, and our resources are properly managed and directed, we must whip them so badly and distress them so much that they will be compelled to accept terms of peace dictated by us, provided we ask nothing of them but what we have a right to do, viz., to return to their allegiance under the old Constitution, and agree that the will of the majority shall govern. Here, however, is our great danger, and it lies in the effort that the ultras are making to give a character to the war which will forbid any hope of the Southerners ever yielding as long as there is any power of resistance left in them. I still trust, however, in the good sense of the mass of the people to preserve us from a condition from which I fear it would take years to emerge.

SOURCE: George Meade, The Life and Letters of George Gordon Meade, Vol. 1, p. 243-4

Arrival of the Niagara – Foreign News

HALIFAX, May 14.

The Niagara, Capt. Stone, from Liverpool and Queenstown 4th, arrived this evening.

GREAT BRITAIN. – Vague rumors of the threatened intervention in America continue in circulation, and the dullness and decline in cotton is attributed to them.

The Paris correspondent of the Daily News, writing on the 1st, says it is positively stated to-day in official circles, that the French and English Ministers at Washington have received identical instructions to attempt a moral intervention, exclusive of any idea of forcible intervention, in the hope of putting an end to the war.

The Paris correspondent of the Independence Belge reiterates the statement relative to the contemplated intervention of France and England for re-establishment in the most absolute manner, and has reason to believe the project will soon be made known officially to the public.  It is said certain conditions will be imposed on the South, having for its object the gradual emancipation of the slaves.

The Times publishes a letter from Mr. Russell, explaining the difficulties thrown in his way by Secretary Stanton when he sought to visit the British Man-of-war.  He says the difficulties amounted to prohibition, and thinks Secretary Stanton would order away the Rinaldo if be.  Russell Further says: “In conclusion, I may be permitted to add that I have received assurances that Gen. McClellan has expressed himself strongly, in reference to Secretary Stanton’s conduct to himself in the matters, and that he and his staff have been kind enough to declare to my friends how deeply they regret my absence from their command.”

On the 2d, Sir G. C. Lewis said the House could soon have ample opportunity to discuss the question of defences, as it would be his duty shortly to ask leave to bring in a bill for another loan for national defences.

Mr. Maguire called attention to the distress in the common manufacturing districts, and reported deaths from starvation in Ireland.  He asked what the Government intended doing.

Sir Robert Pool admitted that distress did exist to some extent, but the accounts were greatly exaggerated.

The Times says that England has withdrawn her stake in the military part of Mexican enterprise, and will get redress for the past and guarantees for the future.

Italians in Paris believe that Rome will be occupied soon by Piedmontese troops.

The Paris Constitutionel asserts that the re-call of Gen. Guyon won’t change French policy in Rome.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, May 16, 1862, p. 2

General Robert E. Lee to G. W. Custis Lee, December 29, 1861

December 29, 1861.

The news from Europe is indeed good, but I think the U. S. Govt., notwithstanding their moral and political commitment to Wilkes’s act, if it finds that England is earnest and that it will have to fight or retract, will retract. We must make up our minds to fight our battles ourselves, expect to receive aid from no one, and make every necessary sacrifice of comfort, money, and labor to bring the war to a successful close. The cry is too much for help. I am mortified to hear it. We want no aid. We want to be true to ourselves, to be prudent, just, and bold. I am dreadfully disappointed at the spirit here. They have all of a sudden realized the asperities of war. If I only had some veteran troops to take the trust, they would soon rally and be inspired with the great principle for which we are contending. The enemy is quiet, and safe in his big boats. He is threatening everywhere around, pillaging, burning, and robbing where he can venture with impunity, and alarming women and children. Every day I have reports of their landing in force, marching upon us, etc., which turns out to be some marauding party. The last was the North Edisto. I yesterday went over the whole line in that region from the Ashepro to the W. and found everything quiet and could only see them by black ships lying down the Edisto, where the water is too broad for anything we have to reach them. They will not venture as yet in the narrow waters. I went yesterday 115 miles but only 35 on horseback. I did not get back until 11 P. M. I took Greenbrier the whole distance. Take good care of Richmond. Draw his forage on my account. Send him to me if opportunity offers, if you do not want him. I have two horses now with me. Good-by, my dear son.

R. E. LEE.

SOURCES: John William Jones, Life and Letters of Robert Edward Lee: Soldier and Man, p. 157

Brigadier General George G. Meade to Margaretta Sergeant Meade, December 9, 1861

CAMP PIERPONT, VA., December 9, 1861.

Most persons here pooh-pooh the news from England, but I think it very serious, as it confirms my apprehension that England would feel herself compelled to intervene in our domestic troubles, and would seize the first plausible pretext for doing so. There is no earthly doubt but that we were justified by the laws of nations in arresting Mason and Slidell. It is, however, a question whether it was done in the right mode, and whether Wilkes ought not to have captured the vessel and carried it into port, where an admiralty judge could have settled the legal points involved, and have ordered the release of the prisoners, in case their arrest was contrary to national law. This I understand is the point England now makes, viz.: that no naval officer is empowered to decide on the spot questions of international law — which can only be settled by admiralty courts.

SOURCE: George Meade, The Life and Letters of George Gordon Meade, Vol. 1, p. 234-5

General Robert E. Lee to Mary Custis Lee, December 25, 1861

COOSAWHATCHIE, S. C, December 25, 1861.

I cannot let this day of grateful rejoicing pass without some communion with you. I am thankful for the many among the past that I have passed with you, and the remembrance of them fills me with pleasure. As to our old home, if not destroyed it will be difficult ever to be recognized. Even if the enemy had wished to preserve it, it would almost have been impossible. With the number of troops encamped around it, the change of officers, the want of fuel, shelter, etc., and all the dire necessities of war, it is vain to think of its being in a habitable condition. I fear, too, the books, furniture, and relics of Mount Vernon will be gone. It is better to make up our minds to a general loss. They cannot take away the remembrances of the spot, and the memories of those that to us rendered it sacred. That will remain to us as long as life will last and that we can preserve. In the absence of a home I wish I could purchase Stratford. It is the only other place I could go to now acceptable to us, that would inspire me with pleasure and local love. You and the girls could remain there in quiet. It is a poor place, but we could make enough corn-bread and bacon for our support, and the girls could weave us clothes. You must not build your hopes on peace on account of the United States going to war with England. The rulers are not entirely mad, and if they find England is in earnest, and that war or a restitution of the captives* must be the consequence, they will adopt the latter. We must make up our minds to fight our battles and win our independence alone. No one will help us.

__________

* Mason and Slidell.

SOURCES: John William Jones, Life and Letters of Robert Edward Lee: Soldier and Man, p. 153; Fitzhugh Lee, General Lee, p. 129

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Saturday, December 27, 1862

Nothing of importance.¹

__________

¹ The days of the latter half of the month of December were the darkest we had seen up to that time and, as it proved, they were the darkest days of the entire Union army during the whole four years of war. Our armies, all along the line, East and West, had not been successful. The second 600,000 men had been called for during the summer, and the loyal men of the North responded nobly, most of them being on the field by December, ready for action. But there was an element in the North holding nightly meetings and declaring that the war was a failure; there was also talk of England's recognizing the Confederacy; then there were discouraging letters from the home folks to the men In the field, for the times were hard and the situation looked very bad to them. They would, in writing to us, ask what we thought of the outlook, and almost to a man, the reply would be that we would push ahead until we were successful, for our loss already had been too great to give up the struggle short of going to the bitter end. — A. G. D.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 89

From Washington

WASHINGTON, May 4.

The War Department has received advices from Gen. Halleck, which indicate that important events will take place in the neighborhood of Corinth in two or three days.

This is authority for stating that there is not a shadow of foundation for the rumor of French intervention for an armistice with the rebels.

WASHINGTON, May 4.

The U. S. steamer Mercidita, on the 27th ult., near Hole in Wall, captured steamer Bermuda, having 4,200 pounds powder, seven field carriages, a number of cannon, swords, pistols, shells, fuses, cartridges, saltpeter, saddles, tin, &c.  She was taken to Philadelphia for adjudication.

After the 1st of June all letters mailed in the U. S. for Nova Scotia will be required pre-payment of postage.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, May 6, 1862, p. 2

The Merrimac makes her Appearance.

FORT MONORE, May 4.

The Merrimac made her appearance beyond Sewall’s Point at 1 o’clock to-day. – She stood off the Point, and up to 4 o’clock has not changed her location.  She is not attended by other gunboats.

BALTIMORE, May 5.

The regular news letter from Old Point is received.  The Merrimac remained out till 4 o’clock on the 4th inst. and then disappeared beyond Sewall’s Point.  Since her last appearance she has had a ram twenty feet in length added to her bow.

The French minister at Washington, Mr. Mercier, arrived at Yorktown on Sunday morning in a special boat form Washington.  The Gasendi was to go for him last night.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, May 6, 1862, p. 1

Diary of John Beauchamp Jones: Wednesday, July 15, 1863

There was a rumor of another battle beyond the Potomac, this morning, but it has not been confirmed.

From Charleston we have no news; but from Jackson there has been considerable fighting, without a general engagement.                                                               

The Enquirer and Sentinel to-day squint at a military dictatorship; but President Davis would hardly attempt such a feat at such a time.

Gen. Samuel Jones, Western Virginia, has delayed 2000 men ordered to Lee, assigning as an excuse the demonstrations of the enemy in the Kanawha Valley. “Off with his head — so much for Buckingham!”

There is some gloom in the community; but the spirits of the people will rebound.

A large crowd of Irish, Dutch, and Jews are daily seen at Gen. Winder's door, asking permission to go North on the flag of truce boat. They fear being forced into the army; they will be compelled to aid in the defense of the city, or be imprisoned. They intend to leave their families behind, to save the property they have accumulated under the protection of the government.

Files of papers from Europe show that Mr. Roebuck and other members of Parliament, as well as the papers, are again agitating he question of recognition. We shall soon ascertain the real intentions of France and England. If they truly desire our success, and apprehend danger from the United States in the event of a reconstruction of the Union, they will manifest their purposes when the news of our recent calamities shall be transported across the ocean. And if such a thing as reconstruction were possible, and were accomplished (in such a manner and on such terms as would not appear degrading to the Southern people), then, indeed, well might both France and England tremble. The United States would have millions of soldiers, and the Southern people would not owe either of them a debt of gratitude.

SOURCE: John Beauchamp Jones, A Rebel War Clerk's Diary at the Confederate States Capital, Volume 1, p. 379

War with England

Shall we have a war with England?  Nothing but a speedy settlement of the difficulties with the South will prevent it.  The rebels are now hemmed in on every side, and vigorous attacks from various points must result in their overwhelming defeat.  The longer the Southern Confederacy stands, the stronger is it becoming in the eyes of foreign nations.  There is no way in which hostilities with England can be prevented, but by the speedy subjugation of the South.  If this war continues six months longer, we shall have old England, with perhaps one or two allied powers, upon us.

The telegraph informs us that the governments of England, France and Spain are mediating an early recognition of the Confederate States.  Their plea is said to be that of “humanity” – a plea that our Government might have used with a thousand fold more plausibility toward either Ireland or the Indies.  Since the rendition of Mason and Slidell, England has been vigorously preparing for war.  Her North American colonies are especially the object of her solicitude.  They have been more strongly fortified, while one hundred thousand men have been raised to protect them from aggression.

Our Government is aware of the preparations that this power has been making for war.  It knows that they are not all intended for the conquering of Mexico, and it must know that there is no way left under heaven to prevent hostilities with England, but the speedy suppression of the rebellion now raging in our own country.  Knowing all this, why there has not been a general advance of the Federal troops ere this time, is more than we can fathom. – But we “possess our souls in patience,” hoping each day that the next will bring us news that the belligerents which have so long been threatening one another on the Potomac have at last concluded to measure strength.  We have the confidence in McClellan to believe that the news of an advance of the Federal troops under his Generalship would be akin to the heralding of a great victory and the postponing of the recognition by humane England of the rebel confederacy.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, February 4, 1862, p. 2

The Rebels taking a gloomy View of their Situation

The following significant article from the Richmond Examiner of the 16th inst., shows that the rebels are uncomfortably oppressed by the view of their present situation:

* * * “While the political leaders of the South have been reposing in dreams of approaching peace and while our accomplished captains of engineers have been expending their remarkable scientific ingenuity in the erection of works as wonderful, and almost as extensive and quite as valuable as the Chinese wall to resist invading forces from a given direction, the enemy have gradually and at leisure gathered up their immense resources and concentrated their tremendous energies to envelope the Confederacy with their armies and fleets and to penetrate the interior from some one of many alternate points.  Although they can now do nothing, they have their general programme in perfect order for execution when the weather changes in the ordinary course of the earth around the sun and it this moment we find ourselves in the face of superior forces wherever we look whether to the North, the East, or the West, or the South itself.  General Sydney [sic] Johnston has to strain every nerve to prevent the military as well as the geographical heart of the country from slipping out of his grasp.  Generals Joseph Johnson [sic] and Beauregard are held by McClellan on the Potomac as in a vice.  A gigantic armament is ready to attempt the descent of the Mississippi, and their fleet on the Atlantic seacoast and the Gulf are too freshly before the attention to require remembrance.  Such are the fruits of a policy purely defensive.  Without even the hesitancy which would come of a possible interruption, the enemy have thus surrounded the Southern Confederacy, and if permitted to repeat as often as may be desired their efforts to penetrate its heart, they will necessarily attain the place and the time where success awaits them.

“There is now but one chance of success from the net that has been coolly drawn around us. – it is to concentrate our energy on one point, and cut it through, to convert our defensive into an offensive war, and transfer the scene of at least part of these hostilities to the enemy’s own country.  Situated as we are it is only possible at one point – and that is Kentucky.  If the forces that we are dispersing to the four corners of the continent every day to meet the new menaces were collected under the hand of General Sydney Johnson [sic] till a column was formed sufficient to enable him to manoeuvre with some possibility of success over the plains of that region he might hurl back the army in front of him, at present, and penetrate the State of Ohio.  The attainment of the object would render worthless all the plans of the enemy.  The circle of armies would be in the condition of the constrictor whose back has been broken, the scene of war would be transferred to his own territory, and everyone who has witnessed the ravages of armies in any of the invaded districts of Virginia knows what a precious blessing is designated in that brief phrase.  He would be attacked beyond his defences.  The alarm and confusion of the United States would paralyze its Government and its Generals, and the entire arrangement by which we suffer now and dread great disasters in future would be immediately reversed.

“At present Gen. Johnson confronts superior forces of the enemy under Buell, one of the most cautious painstaking and able Generals on the other side.  General Buell has now; immediately in front of Johnson, an army of seventy six thousand men (Yes, 110, men – Eps) and can bring to bear on us, and other given points, thirty thousand more.  What the Confederate commander has may not be stated, but it is probably enough to hold his present strong position against any numbers that might attack him there or pass him on either side, get to his rear and cut off his supplies.  This he can do by leaving a sufficient army in front of Gen. Johnson while he can still send upon the right or left flank a force as large as he leaves behind.  That this is the plan of Buell is now no longer doubtful.  He has placed a force of 8,000 men at Glasgow, thirty miles to the eastward of Bowling Green threatening the rear of Gen. Johnson while it is within easy supporting distance of two other posts held in strong force by the enemy.  If the plan of Buell is successful it may result in a great disaster.  To defeat him it is absolutely necessary that more men should at once be sent to Bowling Green.  Gen. Johnson must have a force sufficient to attack Buell in front with a good chance of success and by so doing will not only defeat his scheme on the centre of the Confederacy, but immediately transfer the war to the State of Ohio, and thus save the whole South from the great danger of being overrun in the first fine weather of the coming spring.

“We are satisfied that, beyond the flattering possibilities of a foreign intervention, the only rational hope we can entertain of a speedy termination of this war, is to be found in an offensive campaign across the Ohio, from the point that Gen. Johnson now defends.  The best line of advance imaginable to strike at the vitals of the North which are the Lake States, is that through Kentucky.  The country is a plain, the people are not actively hostile, supplies without stint and the great resources of the North are beyond.  The enemy understand this and are making tremendous efforts to secure Kentucky to them without the possibility of escape.  This season of inaction, from the inclemency of the skies, is a precious boon of Providence to us, we can now determine on a plan, and prepare for its execution in a short time, that will render naught and abortive all the costly and complicated devices of the adversary.”

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 1, 1862, p. 4

A pamphlet has just appeared in Paris . . .

. . . with the title “The American Union and Europe.”  It is signed by M. Renouf.  He argues that the war between North and South is not a war for abolition and consequently that great sentiment ought not to affect political action or the sympathies of mankind.  They should remember only that the Union has repeatedly extended itself, that its statesmen claim the whole continent, and that a federal republic can absorb all races.  He therefore suggests that as the war is not one of abolition as the political Union involved great political danger, as the contest embarrasses France, and as England must commence a campaign. England and France united should guaranty to the South her independence on condition of emancipation.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 1, 1862, p. 3

Later From Europe

Arrival of the Anglo Saxon.

PORTLAND, MAINE, Jan. 30. – The Anglo Saxon from Liverpool, 16th, via Queenstown, 17th, arrived here this morning.  Her dates are five days later.

The steamship Teutonia, from New York, arrived at Southampton on the 12th, with the steamship America, from New York, and the Novascotian arrived at Liverpool on the 14th.  The Edinburg, from New York arrived at Liverpool on the 15th.

The news by the Anglo Saxon is unimportant.

It was rumored that the rebel steamer Nashville had been sold to English ship owners.  The Tuscarora continued to blockade her.

Corn, easy, market closed steady, with an upward tendency for wheat.  Provisions, quiet.

Consols, for money, 93¼.

The London Globe announces that the Washington Cabinet had given orders for the release of the two Americans taken from the English schooner Eugenie and the steamer Santiago de Cuba.

But little business was doing at Loyd’s [sic] in war risks.  There was continued activity in all the departments at the Portsmouth dock yard.

It was stated that the Tuscarora’s movement in leaving her moorings on the 13th inst., was to prevent the Nashville from getting under way for 24 hours.  It was understood that the Tuscarora’s orders were never to leave sight of the Nashville, to blockade her in Southampton, and if she should leave, to chase her as long as she is at sea.  In addition to the Frigate Dauntless, the war steamer Argus, had been placed at the mouth of the Southampton docks, to watch the movements of the two vessels.

The London Times says that mercantile letters from New York represent that the cry for promoting insurrection among the slaves was gaining force, and looking at the threatened horrors, whispers were at length heard of a wish that for the sake of humanity European intervention might be fount practicable.

Additional correspondence had been published in regard to the Trent affair, including Lord John Russell’s reply to Mr. Seward’s dispatch, dated January 11th.  It expresses much satisfaction at the conclusion arrived at by the Washington Government, which it considers most favorable to the maintenance of most friendly relations.  The English Government, however, differs from Mr. Seward in some of his conclusions, and as it may lead to a better understanding on several points of international law.  Lord John Russell proposes in a few days to write another dispatch on the subject.  In the mean time he says that it is desirable that the commanders of United States cruisers shall be instructed not to repeat acts for which the British Government will have to ask redress, and which the United States government can not undertake to justify.  Lord Lyons is thanked for his discretion.

Mason and Slidell had been expected by the America, and a good deal of interest was felt as to the reception they would get at Liverpool. – Various expedients were adopted to secure anything but a flattering one.

There has been no reply to the strictures on the stone blockade of Charleston.

The extra workmen at the dock yards will be discharged at the end of the financial year.

The Shipping Gazette says that war of further diplomatic strife is certain between England and America.

Liverpool Breadstuffs. – W. N. & Co. and others, report flour dull and declined 6d@1s, wheat declined 1d@2d – red 11s@12s 4d, white western 12s 6d@12s 9d, white southern 12s 9d@13s 3d.  Corn easier, mixed 31s@31s 6d.

(Latest via Londonderry.)

Liverpool, 17. – Flour steady, wheat active with an upward tendency, corn quiet but steady, provisions ditto.

LONDON, Jan, 17. – Consols for money 93¼.  I. C. shares 42 7/8 @ 43 1/8 disc., Erie shares 28 N. Y. C. 71@73.

The Times predicts a speedy collapse in America under the suspension of specie payment. – It also published extracts from Mr. Russell’s diary to the 3d of January.  He says it requires an augmentory faith to believe there will be any success in subjugating the South, for the army of the North will be stricken down for the want of means.  The troops sent to points along the coast are suffering from sickness.  The pretense of there being Union men at the South is fast vanishing.  Mr. Russell sees an extraordinary lack of ordinary political common sense in American Journals.

Capt. Symmes of the Confederate States Navy, and commander of the Sumter has addressed a letter to the Times defending his ship against the insinuations of the Secretary of the Federal Navy who in his official report describes the Sumter as a piratical rover.

Paris Bourse steady.  Rentes quoted 69f 20c.

The French journals generally compliment the Washington Cabinet for their action in the Trent affair.

PRUSSIA. – The King of Prussia, in his speech at the opening of the Chambers rejoiced at the happy issue of the Anglo American difficulties.

SPAIN. – The privateer Sumter continued at the port of Cadiz.

London Money Market. – Consols experienced a further decline of ½ per cent.  Money very easy.

The publication of the correspondence in relation to the Trent affair, has lead to some very bitter strictures on the dispatch of Mr. Seward, particularly as regards that part of it where it is announced that the prisoners, Mason & Slidell would have been retained had the interests of the Union required it.

The London Times doubts whether any nation ever committed a blunder so palpable and so enormous.

The London Morning Post says it is clear that the law of the stronger is the only law ruling in the United States.

The London Herald says that the last four lines of Mr. Seward’s dispatch is the only part of it that can be accepted as an answer to British Demands.

(Very Latest per Anglo Saxon.  Telegraphed to Londonderry.)

Liverpool, Jan. 17. – Notwithstanding the rumored sale of the Nashville she continued to fly the Confederate flag.  No sale has been registered at the Admiralty.

Berlin, Jan. 17. – It is reported that England has no objection to examine the question of guarantee for the rights of neutrals by diplomatic correspondence, but would be opposed to a Congress on the question.

Several members of Parliament had been addressing their constituents.  America was the main topic.  Mr. Gladiator made a speech at Leith.  He was very friendly towards America, and hoped the concession of the American Government would be conceived in a most generous spirit and irritation not to be increased by minute criticism.  He thought the North had undertaken a task which would prove too much for them.

Mr. Gilpin, of Northampton, declared that the lack of sympathy with the North was because the North had not identified themselves with the first principles of the Constitution, which declares all men are born free and equal.  But he believed the question had now become Slavery or Freedom.  He called on Englishmen to hesitate before they directly or indirectly sanctioned a premature and unnecessary acknowledgment of the South.

Lord Henry at the same meeting uttered similar sentiments.

Mr. Peeresford took rather opposite ground, he believed that if the Southern Confederacy established its independence it would lead to an amelioration of the condition of the slave.

The frigate Mirror was expected at Plymouth in a day or two on her way to the North American Station.

ITALY. – The Pope in announcing to the Cardinals that Russia had consented to the re-establishment of the Papal Nuncio at St. Petersburg, said he hoped this fresh concession on the part of the Emperor would be the signal for others in favor of the unfortunate Polish nation.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 1, 1862, p. 2

What Will England Do?

The great body of the English people are far from having a distaste for war, though they may not so much fancy an increase of an already burdensome taxation.  Let me be as frank as I ever have been and tell you the truth in this matter.  The great body of the English, and still more the Irish people, are disappointed and disgusted.  They expected a war.  It is not too much to say that they wished for one.  They expected war, and prepared for it at a cost of two or three millions.  Even the Guards were sent off in hot haste to Canada.  And England, this day, is ready to seize upon any pretext which will allow her to take a belligerent position.  When Lord Palmerston went to the meeting of the Privy Council, which met to consider the Trent affair, his first remark, on laying down his hat was “I don’t know whether the English people are going to stand this American business or not, but I’m d----d if I do!”

There can be no reasonable doubt that the United States must either fight England within the next twelve months, or submit to a series of terrible humiliations.  One question will be raised after another.  The first issue will be on the doctrines of Mr. Seward’s recent dispatch.  Then will come a protest against the permanent closing and destruction of the Southern ports, as against the laws of nations and of nature. – The question of recognition of the independence of the Southern Confederacy will be one of the first brought before Parliament.  Gen. McClellan has little time to lose.  The only logic to which Europe will listen is the unanswerable argument of un fait accompli.  The South must be subjugated, or it will be recognized.  If you do not end the war, France and England will.  France to-day is more the friend of the South, and more interested in her success, than is England, even.  Sympathy with the North, strangely enough is rarer in France and Spain than here.  Further more if you make the war one for abolition, you will have a large party both in England and France.  But it is not a powerful party.  The powerful of both countries have too much sympathy with freedom. – {London Cor., N. Y. Times, Jan 15.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2

From the South

A letter appears in the Richmond Enquirer from a gentleman just arrived there from Europe, apparently one of the numerous secession emissaries, which contains some interesting statements.  Although evidently desiring to put the best appearance on the prospects of the confederacy, he frankly acknowledges the defeat of its expectations of foreign aid thus far.  He says:

“When I left Richmond in June last there was a very general expectation that the manufacturing necessities of England and France would force them to a speedy recognition and interference with the federal blockade.  There was, too, an equally confident impression that the commercial enterprise of England would spring at once to the enjoyment of the high prices the blockade established by sending forward cargoes of arms, munitions, medicines and other stores most needed in the confederacy.  The first thing I learned after my arrival was the great error of these expectations. – Immediately on getting to London I endeavored to start some shipments to the confederate states that had been suggested by certain parties from whom I carried messages, but soon I found it up hill work.  When I told of hundred per cent profits, they said ‘ten per cent without risk, or even five, and we are your men but no range of profits however high, will tempt us to risk uncertainties.”  Those who came back some months ago know what untiring efforts we made for this purpose, but I am sorry to say without the success we confidently anticipated.  This matter however, shows signs of continual improvement, and I hope the channels of trade will soon be opened.  The fallacy of popular expectations in reference to speedy recognition and interference with the blockade was even more strongly apparent, and should in my opinion, be taken into account in simple justice to the confederate commissioners in Europe.  The difficulties in the way of a speedy interference on the part of England and France, I consider among other things to have been – First – The fact that both of those governments are eminently conservative, which, coupled with the fact of both possessing important colonial possessions made them naturally cautious in encouraging innovations on the existing status of nations, and of encouraging a disposition to revolution that might be turned against them in some day of future trials of their own.  Second – A prevalent impression among nearly all classes that the differences between the South and North would be speedily settled, either by a peaceful division of the Union or a peaceful reconstruction.  Third – A very general fear among those particularly friendly to the South that she would be over run and conquered, in which case they said we should find a difficulty on our hands from interference, which would be anything but advantageous or agreeable.  Fourth – The influence of the old national party of England, especially to encourage within her own borders an independence in the monopoly of manufacturing stables.  Fifth – And the last, in this hurried letter is the abolition element of England and her people.  It is not to be distinguished that abolitionism at the outset of the war was the prevailing sentiment of the British nation.  This sentiment, planted by the labors of Wilberforce and Clarkson, and of late years by the active fanaticism of many of her most powerful writers, preachers and politicians, stimulated by the artful and insinuating fictions of writers of the Harriet Beecher Stowe order, and total ignorance of the mitigating features which have made America the greatest possible boon to the African, had grown not only the general, but the active and determined sentiment of the people.  It is true that many of the strongest abolitionists have been pitching into the Lincoln government, but it was from anything but a friendly motive to the South and constituted an influence from which nothing advantageous to her cause could be expected.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2

The Desperation Of The Rebel Cause – The Federal Military Cordon – A Wail From Rebeldom – The War Drum To Be Beaten – Plenty Of Work For Court House And Cross Road Orators.

(From the Richmond Enquirer January 27.)

If the plans of McClellan are indeed now developed, and if he has been placing a military cordon around us, with a view to crush us by a simultaneous constriction as the anaconda crushes its victim, there is one element of resistance the force of which he has not allowed for.

The very difficulties with which our enemies hope to surround us – the very danger with which they urge us on every side – will add to the heroism of our fighting and the energy of our movements.  Press the war home upon us, cut off all retreat and all temporizing, cause every man to see and feel that his immediate safety depends upon the instant success, and it will add vigor to our blows and an endurance to our courage that will make every soldier count at least double.  Pent up even a coward and he will fight.  Make a brave man desperate and he is irresistible.

* * * In the threats that fall upon our ears, and the great fleets that they are sending to our various frontiers, our enemies are giving us a call to arms that should rouse every spirit in the land.  Their great boasts and small performances heretofore, in the true style of Mexican grandiloquence, have tended to make us careless and almost lethargic.  We have learned to despise our enemy – always a source of danger.  We have heard his battle sound so often when there has been no battle, that we have ceased to notice it.  There is peril in this.  The enemy knows that what they purpose to do they must now do quickly.  Their own people are dividing.  Some are weary of an inglorious and fruitless war.  Others are in despair at the dilatory proceedings.  The funds are fast failing.  Europe, too is weary of waiting and will soon interfere in behalf of the interests of commerce.  The appearance of vigor is absolutely necessary to keep the cotton manufacturers from outbreak.

Hence McClellan is moving his legions, and probably in earnest.  Are we ready?  The war drum should sound throughout our confederacy.

The war spirit must be revived.  We want war speeches at our court houses and crossroads.  Our people should rouse up and organize as one man, and prepare for the most determined war.  See ye not the circle of fire that is uniting around you?  Here ye not the tramp of the enemy’s advancing lines and the rush of his coming steps?  The shock of tremendous strife is upon us.  As a free and independent people we have either to conquer or to die, and we are resolved not to die.  The time is come when every one who has the spirit of a man must show it.

“The men who carried me to Mexico, are the men who kept me back from Richmond,” – as Scott is reported to have said to Lincoln. – Let McClellan’s experience be made as bitter.  Scott is a traitor to his State, McClellan is a traitor to the principles he formerly avowed. – Companions in infamy, let them be consigned to the fellowship of defeat.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2

Mason And Slidell – What Has Been Gained By Their Surrender

The following is an extract from and English letter written, says the New York Evening Post, by a most intelligent observer:

“Since the surrender of Mason and Slidell our position in Europe is much better than it has been at any time before since the rebellion.  A strong reaction has set in against the South and in our favor I am greatly mistaken if those gentlemen don’t find a cheerless welcome in Europe.  Mr. Seward’s dispatches are widely and strongly commended, as well as the magnanimity and sagacity of the Government.  That fact is, all Europe was frightened almost to death by the apprehension that we meant to resist, for which they every day had increasing evidence of our ability, if we were reckless enough of consequences about which they had not much doubt.  When they found the men were delivered up, and in such a spirit, their gratitude was proportioned to their selfishness and the feeling towards the South was changed in a corresponding degree.  The northern cause now stands a great deal better in Europe than it did before the seizure.  It was feared we were going to give England a triumph as the champion of the rights of neutral commerce.  When it was ascertained that we had caught her in a trap, and, while vindicating our traditional policy, had brought her mouth to the bucket, every one gave our Government the credit for having achieved a masterly triumph.  It will now be very difficult to awaken any hostile feeling towards the North in Europe, if it in any way can promote the interests of the Secession States.  England has paid about £4,000,000 for a false alarm, to say nothing of the depreciation in the sale of stocks, a good many times as much more, and the Government may cry “Wolf!” now as often as they please, they will not be headed.”

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 8, 1862, p. 2

Disunion is Anarchy

Mr. Yancy – who was not captured while running the blockade, disguised as the “ancient mariner” made a speech on his arrival in New Orleans, a sketch of which appeared in our last, as copied from a Southern journal. – Mr. Yancy, who went out to Europe in high feather as a Confederate Commissioner to solicit foreign recognition of Jeff. Davis’ Government, returned quite chop-fallen – a wiser if not a better man.  Plainly he told the Louisiana people, in his speech, that European intervention was out of the question, and that “the South” has no friends abroad.  In his intense disgust he became candid, and frankly stated that one of the reasons why European powers will not interfere in American affairs, is the hope and belief that the permanent dissolution of the Union will weaken a nation of whose prosperity and greatness they had become jealous.  True words and well spoken!  But is Mr. Yancy conscious that he has thus presented a sound, invincible argument against the mischievous faction to which he belongs, and in favor of an undivided, combined and powerful Government?

One of the most painful causes of apprehension, with us, from a contemplation of a possible success of the rebellion, is the belittled and contemptible position in which the separated parts of our country would stand in the eyes of other nations.  As a whole, America is justly respected and feared by the wealthiest and strongest governments of the world.  Dismembered, divided and broken up, exhausted by petty internecine wars, the fragments would be the scorn and scoff of kingdoms, foreign secretaries and statesmen – the subjects of constant insult and the prey, perhaps, of invasion and conquest.  National weakness is a synonym of inevitable ruin.  The power of the United States once destroyed, administration is forever gone, and the haughtiness or greed of other governments would soon compel it to sink into an insignificance so mortifying, and imbecile that the disdain of foreign nations would be scarcely more galling than the disgust of the citizens at home.  We wonder that Mr. Yancy and his confreres never thought of this before.

No differences that have existed or now exist between the people of the Northern and Southern sections will ever be settled in any more permanent manner through the establishment of two Governments than can be done under one.  Indeed, there is far less prospect of each in a separation than in a continued Union. – England and France see this, and hence, whilst professing neutrality, their dearest hopes will be fulfilled if there shall be a dismemberment of the American Republic.  The present rebellion if successful, it may [be] but a precedent for future insurrections and secessions.  In the very nature of the system of the Confederate Government now sought to be established, the States comprising it may be indefinitely divided, the league depending solely upon the pleasure of the people of the several parts forming the compact.  So whilst it is not out of the range of possibility that the existing loyal States might hereafter be disrupted by revolution aided by the South and by European Governments, the Southern States would almost inevitably fall into paltry fragments. – The seceded districts are now held together by an interest of common defense, and would doubtless be always united in any war against their late associates, but let their independence once be acknowledge, and if they could not find pretexts for quarrel with the remaining States, political incongruities would soon furnish material for strife amongst themselves. – The dissolution of the Union, then, is equivalent to unending contention and anarchy, tending directly and inexorably to public and private ruin in every section, and consequently to the downfall of all the power and government in America.  Mr. Yancy has stated premises correctly; let him and his allies in secession pursue them to the logical conclusion. – {St. Louis Republican

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 5, 1862, p. 2