The following letter was written previous to . . .

. . . the date of the dispatch from Mr. Gifford, published yesterday, but contains some facts in relation to the work of aiding sick and wounded soldiers not heretofore laid before our readers:

STEAMER CITY OF ALTON,

CAIRO, Ill., May 15, 1862 – 9 A. M.

REV. A. J. KYNETT, Sec. &c.

I have very fortunately got passage on boat City of Alton in charge of Gov. Yates; through the kindness of Gen. Strong and E. Folsom.  Having a few moments before the boat leaves, I write you all the information I can obtain so hurriedly.  Gov. Yates has commissioned Mr. Raub, of Chicago, as agent, who has had a good deal of experience in sanitary matters.  He tells me the only way to reach the wants of the suffering, is to have an agent, to whom all goods shall be sent, and said agent to make it his duty to distribute the same.  He also tells me that the thing most needed is nourishment in shape of jellies – fruits (can and dried); good liquor, (whiskey and brandy.)  Also the best wines, (the home-made wine is not of any use, as it ferments, sours, &c.)

You had better make a collection of the above articles, and forward to me at Cairo, in care of E. Folsom; also send the best porter and ale in bottles, well packed – send a good quantity of it, not less than one gross.  I cannot tell you of course of all that would be of service, but things will suggest themselves to you while packing.  The Jamaica ginger (essence) is good.  I paid $3.50 a dozen for it here; if you can get it there send it.

Now in regard to clothing, I can tell you nothing, except that Rev. E. Folsom says there is a great scarcity of thin cotton drawers, of anything else he could not tell me. – Perhaps it would be as well to suggest the same to the ladies, and if you have them on hand send on.  Direct to me at Cairo in care of Folsom.

I made some inquire about steamboat accommodations, and was told that every facility would be granted by the commander at Pittsburg Landing, and that a boat could be secured there to load with wounded, if necessary and the opinion here prevails that a battle will very soon take place.  If so, we are none too soon at work, and there is plenty of it to do.  Center is useful and energetic.  Gen. Strong welcomed me very cordially and thanked the Governor for this noble effort to aid his brave soldiers.  I wrote you a few lines a moment ago, but since learned the facts above, and while the boat was still at the landing, improved the opportunity of stating them over again partially.  All well. – the weather quite warm.

Very respectfully yours,

IRA M. GIFFORD.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Wednesday Morning, May 21, 1862, p. 1

Cairo, Ill., May 15, [1862].

CAIRO, Ill., May 15, [1862].

A. J. KYNETT AND E. RUSSELL, SEC’Y., &c.:

We just arrived at this place, and through the assistance of Gen. Strong, got passage on the steamer City of Alton, (hospital boat) for Hamburg.  We think it fortunate, as the next boat does not leave till Saturday.

I saw Rev. Folsom, he does not know what is most needed, but says that there is a great scarcity of thin drawers.  Would it not be best to suggest the same to our ladies, that they may make up some.

I purchased a dozen essence ginger and some ale, but have no time to look around here after the sick.  Gen. Strong tells me he has made arrangements to send them all home.  We met a very sick man at Centralia of the 14th Iowa, lives in Wisconsin, name H. J. Matthews, Co. H., and assisted him to food and some funds.  We are both well and confident of being able to do great good.  Thanks to Folsom and Gen. Strong.  Boat off – good bye.

Yours, &c.,

IRA M. GIFFORD

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, May 19, 1862, p. 1

From Cairo

CAIRO, May 14.

We have received the following dispatches from our correspondent, written just as the mail tug was leaving the Mississippi flotilla, off Fort Pillow, May 13, 12 o’clock m.

A rebel tug has this moment been around the point on a reconnoissance.  Everything seems to indicate a renewed activity on both sides.  We are expecting an attack momentarily.

From Pittsburg we have a dispatch from our own reporter, who had been in front of the lines, and judged that our attack would not be made upon the enemy’s position for several days.  Our siege guns were not yet in position.  Capt. Madison’s battery reached Monterey only on the 9th inst.

The general impression in the army was that the enemy would make no stand at Corinth, but he believes this opinion wrong.

Gen. Halleck is advancing upon the place continuously, and carefully fortifying as he advances.  All his movements are predicated upon the supposition that the enemy is in large force at Corinth, and that he intends to make a stand there.  Grand Junction is being fortified by Beauregard with the evident intention of falling back there if beaten at Corinth.  The number of the enemy’s troops at Corinth is estimated at Gen. Halleck’s headquarters at from 120,000 to 170,000.

The gunboat Mound City was considerably damaged in her bows in the late naval engagement at Fort Pillow, and is now at Mound City awaiting an opportunity of going into dry dock for repairs.

Gen. Strong yesterday visited the hospital at Mound City.  There are only fifty patients in the hospital at present.  Additional apartments are being prepared and improvements effected to accommodate the wounded at the expected battle of Corinth.

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

Surgeons's Report

MR. EDITOR:  In order that the following report be rightly understood by your readers, it may be necessary to say that, though the whole is signed by Drs. Maxwell and Gamble, it is a joint report only up to the 29th ult., from which date it is continued by Dr. Maxwell alone, Dr. G. having entered the U. S. service as surgeon of the Iowa 3rd Infantry.  It is also proper to state that Dr. Maxwell is now in the employ of the State, and is therefore no longer under the direction of the Scott Co. Soldier’s relief Association, but is now acting under Dr. Hughes, Surgeon General of Iowa.  Respectfully,

EDWARD RUSSELL, Corres. Sec.

To H. Price, President Scott County Soldiers Relief Society; Rev. A. J. Kynett, Corresponding Secretary Iowa Sanitary Commission:

The undersigned surgeons, deputed by your respective societies to visit the scene of the late sanguinary conflict at Pittsburg Height, Tenn., beg leave to report:

We, together with Messrs. Burwell and Brown, as nurses, left Davenport on Thursday morning, April 11th, by railroad, and arrived at Cairo on the morning of the 12th, at 6 o’clock’ where we immediately reported to Dr. Taggart, medical surveyor, and Gen. Strong, commander of the post; also to Dr. Douglas, agent for sanitary commission.  The medical surveyor tendered us the position of surgeons in charge of rebel prisoners on their way to Columbus, Ohio.  This position, as well as several others of a similar character which would have interfered with our special mission, we respectfully declined.

To facilitate the purpose for which we were sent, at 8 o’clock on the morning of Friday we held a consultation with Gov. Yates and the Surgeon General of Illinois, at the St. Charles Hotel, Cairo, which resulted in many fair promises on their part, but which promises were afterwards studiously evaded by his Excellency and suit.

At 9 o’clock a. m., by order of Gen. Strong, we proceeded to Mound City Hospital, to care for about seven hundred wounded soldiers, just arrived from Pittsburg on board the steamer “City of Memphis.”  Here we were tendered the position of ward surgeons, by contract, but deeming the position incompatible with your instructions to us, we declined the same.  Among the wounded on board the Memphis, your committee labored several hours in dressing wounds and supplying the immediate wants of such Iowa troops as we could find on board – of which there were about seventy.  A full list of their respective names, regiments and the character of their wounds was also obtained.  Here Dr. Maxwell, by detail, remained until the next day, to assist in several surgical operations; and when he left the troops were all in comfortable quarters in the hospital.  And by special request, Dr. Cottle, of Albany, Ill., promised to see such as needed particular attention.

Dr. Gamble and Messrs. Burwell and Brown returned to Cairo and took passage on the steamer Empress for Pittsburg. – They arrived at Savannah on Sunday morning, and learning that there were many wounded soldiers there, and in need of surgical aid, Dr. Gamble remained whilst Messrs. Burwell and Brown proceeded up to Pittsburg.  At Savannah were found about three thousand wounded and sick solders, among whom were about four hundred Iowa troops.  Among these Dr. Gamble labored assiduously until Tuesday, rendering such professional and pecuniary assistance as could be conferred under the circumstances.  Here were found several regimental surgeons, with whom we most cheerfully co-operated.  It is but right that we should here state, that the regular as well as the volunteer surgeons were seriously embarrassed in their efforts to relieve the wounded, by the want of material to dress wounds, and also the want of medicines and proper food for the sick. – The preparation for the sick and wounded was very imperfect.  They were crowded into any and every place without regard to location or comfort, and often left for days together without medical aid, or even the common attentions of camp life.

On Tuesday your committee met at Pittsburg and reported to Dr. Simons, Medical Director, and solicited and obtained transports to remove our wounded and sick soldiers to a more northern clime.  We also spent a portion of our time in visiting the several Iowa regiments then in camp – Ascertaining the names of the wounded, their condition and the character of the wounds, and also the location of such as had been removed previous to our arrival.  In our efforts to obtain transportation for the wounded, we were ably assisted by Mrs. Wittermyer [sic] of Keokuk, and by Mrs. Senator Harlan, of Iowa; also, by our fellow citizen, Hiram Price of Davenport, and Mr. E. Clonky, of Iowa City.  By the steamer D. A. January we removed nearly all our wounded remaining at Pittsburg, and all at Savannah except about one hundred.

On Thursday we returned to Savannah, and have since been diligently laboring in the various hospitals, which number about thirty, among the wounded and sick, rendering such aid as we could.  We have also labored most assiduously, day and night in getting our wounded men on board transports on their way north.  Those remaining here will be removed as soon an opportunity offers.

On our way up from Cairo, care was taken to visit all hospital boats, and make inquiries as to the condition and destination of the troops on board; and when opportunity offered, accurate lists of the names, regiments, and casualties, were made.  At Cairo a meeting of the surgeons, nurses, and citizens of Iowa there present, was held, and Dr. Emeis, of Iowa, at his on request, was delegated to remain and visit all the hospital boats arriving at that point, and obtain the names, destination, and character of the wounds of such troops as were on board. – This was done that none should be overlooked.

While at Savannah, we co-operated with the Wisconsin delegation, at the head of which was Gov. L. P. Harvey, whose suite consisted of some of the most eminent men of that State; among them were general Broadhead, Quartermaster General; Gen. Wadsworth, Com. General; and Dr. Wolcott, Surgeon General of the State.  In them we found accomplished gentlemen, and active and efficient co-laborers.  Our intercourse served but to create an unusual respect for them, which will long be remembered with pleasure.  This intercourse was suddenly terminated, on the evening of the 19th, by the accidental drowning of Gov. Harvey.  While we were sitting in the cabin of the steamer Dunleith, counseling as to the best plans for accomplishing our humane mission, the steamer Hiawatha came alongside, and the Governor stepped out to obtain passage for a portion of his suite.  A moment after, we were startled by the cry of “A man overboard!”  Immediate investigation proved it to be the Governor. – Prompt and heroic efforts were made to render him assistance, but in the extreme darkness of the night, the rapid current, and amidst steamboats and barges, all proved useless. . .  Gov. Harvey, the accomplished gentleman, the friend of suffering humanity, and the devoted practical Christian, was thus in a moment taken from his field of usefulness to his reward.

Mr. Brown, being sick, was put on board the Hiawatha for home; Mr. Burwell had previously left on the D. A. January, with our wounded for St. Louis.

What of the future?  In view of coming events, your committee would earnestly recommend that efficient agents be appointed, by authority of the State, and be assigned to positions with the army, and at the nearest post hospitals, whose duty it should be to take charge of the sanitary goods, and be on hand and ready at all times to render immediate and efficient aid to our forces in the field, and to the sick and wounded of the battle.  They should also be required to communicate with our State officers and communities, from time to time, and advise them of the particular wants of the sick and wounded.  After the battle, and until the wounded soldier is removed to the hospital, is when assistance is most needed – immediate and efficient aid then would save hundreds of lives.  Here let us most earnestly protest against States, or cities sending large delegations, calculated to interfere with the operations of the army near the scene of conflict.  This is worse than useless.  A few efficient agents can do great good, but a multitude does great harm.

When it is practicable, the State should have a large, well-ventilated steamer. Properly furnished for hospital purposes, and provided with able surgeons and practical nurses, to visit the nearest navigable point to the scene of the battle.  This course, your committee think, would prove more beneficial to the soldiers and meet more directly the intentions of the people than any other; and in a pecuniary point would not be objectionable.  The States that have adopted this plan have done much more for their men than those who have relied entirely upon government transportation.

Your committee having thus given you a brief memoranda of their labors, deem it but just to themselves to state some of the difficulties with which they have had to contend.  From the time of leaving Iowa they have fared as the common soldier.  They have been obstructed at almost every step by official arrogance and egotism – more especially was this the case by the Regular Army Medical Staff.  While traveling on boats they have had to furnish their own provisions and bedding, and when on land, they have traveled through drenching rains and deep mud – the latter such as only Tennessee can produce.  At night they have frequently slept on the ground with only a thin blanket for a covering.  When they did rely on the public for accommodations, the charges were enormous, and the fare most miserable.  Your committee, however, do not regret their hard fare, as amidst it all, many were cheering evidences of kind appreciations received from the suffering soldiers, and many the kind and gentlemanly courtesies tendered them by the surgeons of the volunteer regiments, among whom we take pleasure in mentioning Drs. Gibbon, of the 15th; Nassau, of the 2d; Staples of the 12th, and Watson and Loyd of the 11th Iowa regiments.  Also Dr. Leggitt, of the Ohio 15th.  To Dr. Taggart, Medical Purveyor, and Dr. Douglas, Sanitary Agent, of Cairo, we are also under obligation for many gentlemanly courtesies.

On the 24th we proceeded to Pittsburg Landing, to visit all Iowa regiments, to learn their condition, and found men and officers of the 7th, 11th and 13th in good spirits.  The 8th, 12th and 14th were somewhat dissatisfied, having been, contrary to their wishes, forced into a “Union Brigade” with the 28th Ill. regiment, and commanded by a Captain of that regiment, being rank officer.  I think it, however under the circumstances, the best that could be done.

On the 25th, by the kindness of Capt. G. Dodge, of Port Byron, of the 4th Ill. Cavalry, we were provided with horses and equipments to visit regiments.  We were able to find all but the 15th and 16th – they being on the front lines, we did not reach them.  There are not less than 500 sick in our regiments – 200 in hospitals here – principally camp fever.

On the 26th, Dr. Gamble, with a view of being assigned to the 3d Iowa regiment, which was without a surgeon, entered the U. S. service by contract; since which, I have operated single-handed in both the field and hospitals.  On my return to Savannah, I found the steamer Tycoon taking on the wounded.  I succeeded, by the politeness of Dr. Woods, of Cincinnati, in getting on, in comfortable quarters, all of the Iowa’s sick and wounded here that would come under the general order, in all 30 – destination Cincinnati.  During our absence on the 25th, a number of sick and wounded were taken by the City of Memphis to St. Louis.

29th. – Visited all hospitals here and had our remaining sick and wounded put into the best hospitals, being about thirty still here.  I. H. Work hand his leg amputated, on the 24th, and died 28th.

May 1st. – I visited, by order of Dr. McDougal, of Gen. Halleck’s staff, Hamburg, six miles above Pittsburg Landing, and aided in establishing hospitals for the convalescing soldiers.

2d. – Returned, after putting into quarters 3,700 sick; and having everything in running order under surgeon Vairous of N. Y.  But few Iowa sick are there, but those that are there are in good condition and fair quarters.

3d. – This morning I have the promises from surgeon in charge of Black Hawk to take on a few of our worst cases here and leave them at Quincy, Ill.  I have to report to Dr. McDougal this morning.

On the 2st inst. I received Adj. Baker’s orders, and Mr. E. Russell’s of the 12th ult. – the only communication, save the telegraph dispatch to remain here until otherwise ordered.  I am doing all I can to relieve our sick and wounded.  You will see by my financial report I have expended but little money safe for board and traveling expenses.  This owning to the fact that I used in all cases, when I could get them, sanitary supplies for soldiers.  I have reported by letter to Prof. Hughes for instructions, &c.  Below I give you the character and number of Iowa wounded:  Head 27, face 39, neck 21, chest 107, abdomen 13, back and spine 31, upper extremities 422, lower extremities 381, large joints, 52.

Respectfully submitted.

A. S. MAXWELL, Chn.

JAS. GAMBLE

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, May 9, 1862, p. 2

From Cairo

Special to Chicago Times

CAIRO, May 6.

The steamer Ella, from Pittsburg Landing, with advices to nine o’clock last night, has arrived.

Gen. Halleck has issued an order restraining civilians and all others from visiting the army.  The steamers going up during the last week have been crowded with civilians, going to gratify their curiosity by the sight of a battle, none of whom have been allowed to pass the lines.

Four deserters came in on Sunday, and reported that the enemy had not evacuated Corinth, but, on the contrary, had been largely reinforced of late.  Other deserters, however, report that Beauregard has withdrawn the greater part of his forces.  It has been impossible to ascertain which of these reports is correct.

The guerilla Morgan again made an attack on our pickets at Savannah on Sunday, but was driven back after light skirmishing.

The steamer Brown reached here this morning from Ft. Pillow, but brought nothing of interest.  The rebel fleet had not made its promised attack.  Preparations were quietly making for an active bombardment of the rebel stronghold.

At the election held here to-day for a member of Congress from the 9th Congressional district, votes were cast as follows: Judge Allen, of Williamson county, 210; Haynie, 83; Marshal, 29; Dougherty, 22; Sloan 1.

The nomination of Marcellus V. Strong for asst. Adjt. Gen. on the staff of General Strong, commanding at this post, has been confirmed by the Senate.

The steamer Bowen, which arrived here this p. m. from above, brought intelligence that a party of Capt. Hollin’s company of flying artillery, while out on a scouting excursion near Paducah last night, were captured by a company of rebel guerillas.

Up to Monday night no general engagement had taken place at Corinth.  Orders had been issued to troops to march on Sunday night but the movement was prevented by condition of roads, which heavy rains had made impossible on Sunday morning.  Gen. Pope, by placing a battery of artillery in an open field at Farmington, in sight of three rebel regiments, succeeded in drawing them on to take the artillery, and took the whole force prisoners, numbering nearly 2,000.  Several deserters [came] into our camp on Monday, and reported that great dissatisfaction exists in the rebel army, both among officers and men.  Beauregard had made a speech to some of the troops saying that he would make a desperate stand, and force the Federal army to retreat, and he appealed to them to stand by him.

A band of guerrillas still maintain warfare on all passing steamboats, and on Sunday drove in our pickets around Savannah, but fled on the approach of our infantry.  The Gunboat Tyler is now plying between Clifton and Pittsburg Landing, shelling the woods where the rebels are supposed to be located.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 8, 1862, p. 2

Scott County Relief Association

At a regular meeting of the Scott County Solders’ Relief Association, at Le Claire Hall, May 5, 1862, H. Price, Esq., in the chair, the following letter to the committee on establishing a hospital was read:

HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES,

CAIRO, Ill., April 24th, 1862.

MESSRS. GIFFORD AND PUTNAM, Davenport Iowa –

GENTS:  I respectfully direct your attention to my letter of the 20th, in which I stated that I had referred the matter to Col. I. C. Kelton, Assistant Adjutant General Headquarters Department for the Mississippi, who has replied as follows:

“Such hospital arrangements have been made at St. Louis and on the Ohio, as to render it unnecessary to establish hospitals at Davenport, at least for the present,

Very respectfully,

(Signed,)

I. C. KELTON, A. A. G.

DEPARTMENT OF MISSISSIPPI, April 22, ’62.”

Thus you see I have no control of the matter, and should it be necessary to establish a hospital at Davenport, I will confer with you.

Very respectfully,

WM. K. STRONG, Brig. Gen. Com.,

Per. A. H. HOLT, Lt. and A. D. C.

The Treasure reported whole amount of contributions received $903.61; expended $325.65; money on hand $577.96.

On motion it was

            Resolved, That the committee appointed at a meeting of citizens to administer relief to our wounded, previous to the organization of this society, holding some fifty dollars in their hands, be requested to place the money at the disposal of the Treasure of this association.

ERNST CLAUSSEN, Secretary.

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

Further Particulars Of The Fight

CAIRO, April 10. – Particulars are arriving hourly bringing more accounts of the great battle.  The Chicago Batteries gained new laurels in the struggle.  Taylor’s Battery did fatal execution; their praise is in the mouth of every one.  Waterhouse’s battery was in the first attack and was badly cut up and mostly killed.  Taylor is said to have practiced his men by particular movements that dealt destruction to the enemy.

Company A, Chicago Light Artillery, under command of Peter Wood was in the hardest of the fight and performed wonders.  Their feats could not have been surpassed.

Taylor’s Battery followed the enemy within four miles of Corinth.

The 20th Illinois regiment was badly cut up.  Col. Marsh was slightly wounded; his Aid was killed.

The 15th Illinois regiment, under command of Col. Ellis, was badly cut up; most of its field officers killed, among them Col. Ellis, Major Godard, Capt. Wayne, and others.

Col. Davis, of Freeport, was shot through the lungs, but is still alive.

Gen. Wallace was shot through the head, the ball entering back of  the left ear and coming out at the nose, taking out one eye, but he is not dead as reported.

Gen. Johnson [sic] was certainly killed.

General Halleck and staff, have just passed here, en route for the Tennessee river, on the steamer Continental.

Gen. Cullom has arrived here to look after the river defences.

Gen. Strong and Secretary Scott met General Halleck on the boat and had a conference.  Gen. Halleck did not come ashore.

Col. Scott, Assistant Secretary of War, has gone down to New Madrid.

The list of prisoners captured at Island No. 10 foots up to 4,346, rank and file.  Transports have gone down to bring the prisoners to Cairo.  What disposal will be made of them is unknown.

The value of property captured at No. 10 amounts to over two millions of dollars.

As the Continental rounded to at Cairo this morning, Gen. Strong had a salute of 10 guns fired in honor of Maj. Gen. Halleck.

ST. LOUIS, April 10. – Two steamers, fitted up as floating hospitals, left here yesterday for the Tennessee river.  Large contributions of all kinds and supplies are being made to-day, to furnish more steamers, which will leave this evening.

The Western Sanitary Commission are moving earnestly and energetically with this matter, and every effort will be made for the speedy relieve of our wounded soldiers at Pittsburg Landing.

Col. Kellon, 1st Adj. General, and General Ketham are in charge here, while Gen. Halleck is in the field.

EVANSVILLE, Ind., April 10. – The steamer Charley Bowen left here at 11 a. m. for, for Pittsburg Landing, with a delegation of Surgeons and nurses, and a full supply of hospital stores from Indianapolis and Warwick county, Indiana.  They will take on board another delegation of Surgeons and supplies from Posey county, and Mount Union.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

The Great Battle

FUTHER PARTICULARS

CAIRO, April 9. – No official accounts have been received from the great battle near Pittsburg.  A few persons who witnessed most of it have arrived, and as many of their reports are as follows they differ somewhat from the first report to you:

The Federal army was posted between two streams about four miles apart that runs into the Tennessee nearly at right angles.  It is about two miles east of Pittsburg.  The left front was commanded by Gen. Prentiss, who had several raw regiments and in his rear was Gen. Sherman with his division.  The right front was headed by Gen. McClernand, with Gen. Smith in his rear.  Gen. Hurlburt [sic] was in the center, somewhat in the rear of the front line.

Beauregard attacked Gen. Prentiss’ division at 4 o’clock on Sunday morning, surprising them and driving them and Sherman’s Corps near the river, till protected by the gunboats, and taking Prentiss and two regiments prisoners.

While driving in Prentiss and Sherman, a large force of the enemy got in the rear of Gen. McClernand’s division, completely cutting it off from the main army.  Gen. McClernand put himself at the head of his troops and cut his way through the rebel hosts and rejoined the army.

The fight had now become desperate, and Gen. Grant assuming command, the enemy was driven back and the Federal forces occupied at the right nearly the same position they did in the morning.  The fight lasted fifteen hours.

During the night Major General Lew Wallace came up from Crump’s Landing with 19,000 troops, and in the morning the battle was resumed with great fury; neither party seemed disposed to yield, and between 10 and 12 the fight was terrific.

Soon after noon General Buell d crossed the Tennessee and attacked the enemy in the flank with 40,000 men, and the rout soon became general.  Buell pursued with 12,000, mostly cavalry.  The last rumor was that he had taken Corinth.

Our informants can give no accounts of our loss, further than it is terrible.  Eight hundred wounded are reported on the steamer which will be brought down.

Col. John Logan (not the General) is reported wounded in the shoulder.

The enemy took 36 pieces of our artillery on Sunday.  They are reported all returned and 40 of the enemy’s on Monday.

Gen. Strong certainly expects Gen. Halleck here in the morning, en route for Tennessee.

It was Gen. Cowan McCall that was taken by Gen. Pope’s forces.

Gen. Strong has received notice of a large number of physicians, nurses and hospital stores coming from Chicago, Springfield, St. Louis and other places.

Several barges of ice are ordered up the Tennessee for the wounded.

The Silver Wave is expected up from New Madrid to-night with a load of rebel prisoners.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

Particulars of the Surrender at Island No. 10

CAIRO, April 8, 8 p.m. – I have been able to gather a few more particulars from Island No. 10.  Four hundred and seventy-eight prisoners, including seventeen officers, seventy pieces of artillery, a large amount of ammunition, muskets and small arms, were captured on the Island.  It is said our mortar shells proved very destructive; wherever they struck and exploded, great execution was made in the earth.

It is reported that the Confederates had become perfectly demoralized; in many cases entire regiments would refuse to obey orders. – Much ill feeling prevailed among the officers and none, including the soldiers, had any confidence in their commanding officer.

No farther information has been obtained in reference to the number of prisoners captured on the Tennessee shore, and it will be impossible to get anything further before morning.

Much excitement prevails here over the news of the battle at Pittsburgh.  It is regarded as most fortunate that Gen. Buell came up as he did, with one Division to reinforce Gen. Grant.  It evidently was the expectation of Beauregard to fight the battle before Gen. Buell could form a junction with Gen. Grant.

We hope to get further particulars to-morrow.

At one o’clock, last night a boat came to the flag-ship with a messenger carrying a letter from the commanding officer at Island No. 10 to Flag Officer Foote, proposing capitulation for the surrender of the Island.  Flag Officer Foot replied that he would accept no other terms than an unconditional surrender.  At one o’clock this morning the enemy surrendered unconditionally to Com. Foote.  Several transports and it is supposed one or two gunboats, the celebrated floating battery, cannon, ammunition and stores have thus fallen into our hands.  Too much praise cannot be awarded to the Flag Officer and the gallant officers under his command for this brilliant achievement in capturing the Gibraltar of the Mississippi river, without the loss of a single life.  We have no information at this time as to details, but it is supposed that most of the rebel troops on the Tennessee shore have effected their escape.  It is supposed they commenced leaving soon after the Carondolet succeeded in turning their batteries, as that destroyed all hope of their maintaining their position.  Fleet Captain Hennock, who has achieved wonders in fitting out and repairing gunboats and transports, and furnishing supplies to the fleet, ahs reason to believe that our mortars did terrible execution among the rebels.  It is reported that Gen. Pope had 18,000 troops across the river from New Madrid last night, ready to march and bag the enemy but is believe that he was too late.

Boats commenced running to New Madrid to-day.  The river has fallen four feet within the last two days, greatly facilitating the operations of Gen. Pope opposite New Madrid.

Hon. Jesse Dubois is here en route for the Upper Tennessee.

Hon. Emerson Etheridge has telegraphed to three hundred citizens of Bourbon county, Tennessee, driven out by the rebel troops, to come down and return with him.  They will probably leave to-morrow.

Reliable reports from Jeff. Thompson a week ago place him in the swamps, some eighty miles from here, with a few hundred marauders.  Several men who have heretofore been in his army from the vicinity of Charleston, eight miles from here, in Missouri, have petitioned Gen. Strong for privilege to take the oath and return to their allegiance.  The General authorized the County Clerk, a good Union man, to take and administer the oath.

Dr. Simpson, of the Medical Department leaves this evening for the Tennessee with two large hospital boats most completely fitted out under direction of J. E. Yeatman, Esq., of the St. Louis Sanitary Commission.  They contain 800 beds for the wounded.  The hospitals here have accommodations for 1,400.

Dispatches from New Madrid have been received.  The gunboats Carondelet and Pittsburg, yesterday morning shelled and silenced the batteries on the opposite shore, when Gen. Pope ordered the troops across.  It was effected without loss.

The rebels fled towards Lisbon sinking several of their transports, among others the Grampus.

The floating battery of the rebels, mounting ten guns, drifted down last night, and is aground near Point Pleasant.  It will be recovered with its armament.

The Belle West covered Gen. Paine in the advance on the batteries.

Gen. Pope at once took the Pittsburg and Carondelet, and with a part of his army, turned to and attacked the enemy this morning, and took 2,000 prisoners, mostly from Arkansas and Louisiana.  He will probably get as many more before night.

The rebels fled to the swamps in great consternation.

The victory is complete and decisive.  Great quantities of stores, cannon, and ammunition have fallen into our hands.  All their baggage and supplies are taken.

Gen. McCall, of the rebel Adjutant General’s department, is a prisoner.

The country between New Madrid and Island No. 10, on the east side of the river, is being scoured by our troops.  Many prisoners will doubtless be taken there.

Gen. Bissell, with his transports, is ordered down to Tipton by Gen. Pope, which is twelve miles below New Madrid, to bring cannon and other property up to New Madrid.

Divisions of our army are pursuing the fleeing rebels in all directions.  Their entire force at and about Island No. 10, is either taken prisoners or utterly routed and demoralized.

Hon. Emerson Etheridge has just arrived from Paducah.  To him the news of our success is especially gratifying.  His residence is thirty-five miles south of Hickman.  Gen. Strong will send an escort with him to his home to insure his safety.  Thousands of his former friends will great his arrival with a glorious welcome.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

Gen. Grants Column --- A Reconnoisance ---- Rebel Prisoners Seized, &c. &c.

CAIRO, March 28. – A gentleman returned here this morning from Pittsburg and Savannah, on the Tennessee river and reports that on Sunday and Monday last Gen. Sherman made a reconnoissance in force to Pea Ridge, near the line of the Mobile and Ohio Railroad, where it had been reported the rebels were fortifying.  The reconnoissance was completed in every particular, no enemy was found, however, in the neighborhood.  The expedition returned to Pittsburg on Tuesday.

Our forces at Pittsburg are being rapidly augmented.  Steamer after steamer are continually arriving laden with fresh troops.

The latest advices from the rebel camp at Corinth gives the strength of their force there at 170,000 and the apparent efforts of the rebels to fortify the town of Corinth would seem to demonstrate an intention to make a vigorous resistance there.  It is, however, the general belief of all prominent officers of Gen. Grant’s command, that the rebels will retreat on our approach, but should a battle occur Corinth will doubtless be one of the hardest fought and bloodiest affairs of the present war.

On Sunday last information was received at headquarters of Gen. Grant that a considerable amount of pork was stored at a point on the river called Nicholas Landing, sixty miles south of Savannah.  Major M. Smith of the 45th Ill. with one hundred and fifty infantry and Capt. Osband’s company 5th Illinois cavalry was dispatched on a steamer to secure said property. – Arriving at Nicholas Landing information was given by contrabands regarding the locality of the pork in question.  Within a circuit of fifteen miles fifteen thousand pounds of fresh pork, forty-five thousand pounds of pork hams and shoulders were discovered and confiscated and placed on board the steamer and brought to Savannah and turned over to the Commissary Department.  Nicholas Landing and vicinity has been the mart of the pork business for a long time, and immense quantities have been brought there and stored for the use of the confederate army.  Had the information been received two weeks earlier it would have secured to the United States upwards of two hundred thousand pounds of meats.  Within that time the rebels have transported large quantities southward by teams.

On Monday the gunboat Taylor [ran] up the river to the vicinity of Eastport, near which point a masked battery opened upon them at a distance of two hundred yards, one shot striking the smoke stack of the Taylor.  A number of shots were exchanged, but with what effect on the enemy’s works is unknown.  The engagement was spirited while it lasted; upwards of fifty shots were fired.  The Taylor received no other injuries and nobody was hurt.

Captains Bernard and Corson of Gen. Smith’s scouts returned to Savannah from Nashville, overland, on Tuesday night as bearer of despatches from Gen. Buell.  Capt. Bernard reports a strong loyal sentiment in several districts of Tennessee between Columbia and Savannah. – He overtook certain bodies of marauding rebels, but their identity not being suspected they were allowed to pass unmolested.  Union men live in extreme fear of these marauders prowling about the vicinity, and are anxious for the approach of the Government forces.

A man named Morris, one of the Jesse scouts, was hung at Savannah on Sunday for stealing thereabouts.

Gen. Grant has entirely recovered from his recent illness.  Gen. Smith is still confined at his headquarters, but is convalescent.

A steamer arrived early this morning from the flotilla and reports no change in the condition of affairs at Island No. 10.  The bombardment continues with but little interruption, but the results are not indicative of any signs of evacuation by the rebels.

Rumors were afloat that the rebel gunboats had passed Pope’s batteries at Point Pleasant, from below, but they can be traced to no reliable source.  The store is undoubtedly a canard.

The rebels are impressing citizens of Kentucky and Tennessee into service and arming them with axes and pikes.

Four rebels armed with Arkansas toothpicks were arrested near Charleston yesterday, and brought to Bird’s Point; they claim to be refugees from Tennessee.  Their story is disbelieved.  They remain in custody.

Gen. Strong visited the Island to-day.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 5, 1862, p. 4

Cairo Budget

CAIRO, 2. P. M. April 2. – Brig. Gen. John A. Logan has so far recovered from his wound received at Fort Donelson as to be able to rejoin his brigade, and to-day started for the seat of war on the Tennessee.  His wound is still very painful.

Lieut. Col. Ranford has been appointed Colonel of the 11th regiment to fill the vacancy occasioned by the promotion of Col. Wallace to Brigadiership.

Lieut. Col. Dunlap of the 29th regiment has resigned and arrived [at] Cairo, as have also several other officers of a lesser grade.

Brig. Gen. John Cook, of the 7th regiment is here, in route, for the theater of operations in Tennessee.

It is a very singular fact that those who have resigned, are invariably those who have hitherto escaped unharmed, while the wounded ones are as invariably returning to their duties.  Comment is unnecessary.

Gen. Strong is absent to-day, at Island 10.

The Hospital boat, Louisiana, started for the Tennessee river with a full compliment of doctors and nurses on board.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 5, 1862, p. 3

First Session -- 37th Congress

WASHINGTON, March 7. – HOUSE. – Mr. COLFAX concluded saying that while Fremont was hunting rebels his enemies in St. Louis were hunting evidence to overwhelm him.  As the gentleman from Missouri had preferred charges against Fremont, it was but just for the Secretary of War to put him on his defense.  The meanest man in the world was entitled to a fair hearing.

SENATE. – The Senate to-day confirmed as Brig. Gens. Bell, Paine, and W. A. Richardson of Illinois, W. T. Ward, Lockwood and W. K. Strong and St. George Cook.

WASHINGTON, March 10. – SENATE. – Mr. HARRIS presented a petition, asking that the Democratic newspapers, now excluded from the mails, whose editors are not convicted of treason, be allowed the same privileges as are allowed loyal newspapers.

Mr. SUMNER presented several petitions in favor of the emancipation of the slaves.

Mr. HOWE presented a memorial asking Congress to permit no abridgement of the freedom of the press.

Mr. COLLAMER, from the Committee on Post Offices, reported back the bill to provide for carrying the mails.

The House considered the Senate bill providing for the appointment of sutlers in the Volunteer service and defining their duties.

Mr. BLAKE made a successful motion to abolish such sutlership.

Mr. LANE, from the Committee on Military Affairs, reported a bill to provide for the payment of bounty and pensions to soldiers actually employed in the department of the West.

Mr. GRIMES offered a Joint Resolution, that in the opinion of the Senate, no person should be appointed commander of a division, except such as exhibit superior competency in the command of men, or gallantry in the conflict against the enemy.  Referred to the Committee on Military Affairs.

Mr. KING moved to take up the Cavalry bill.

Mr. GRIMES objected.

Mr. GRIMES offered a resolution tendering the thanks of Congress to Com. Foote.

Mr. KING objected, as the Senator had needlessly objected to the Cavalry bill.

Mr. GRIMES said he hoped it would go to the country that the Senator from New Jersey objected to giving thanks to a brave and gallant officer.

Mr. WILSON, of Mass., offered a joint resolution tendering aid to the States of Maryland and Delaware for favoring voluntary emancipation.

Mr. SAULSBURY objected.

The joint resolution was laid over.

On motion of Mr. WILSON the bill to encourage enlistments in the army was taken up.

The question being on the motion of Mr. Fessenden to amend by adding the bill to organize the Cavalry.  It was adopted.

On motion of Mr. THOMPSON the number of Cavalry Regiments was reduced to 30.

Mr. WILSON, of Massachusetts said there was a story going abroad in the newspapers that there was something wrong in the bill.  The fact is the bill was reduced before to 37 Colonels, 37 Lieut. Colonels, 111 Majors, 450 Captains and 940 Lieutenants, making a saving of $2,900,000 to the Treasury.

The Senate passed the bill to encourage enlistments in the regular army, and the bill in relation to Staffs, and the bill to organize the Cavalry, put in as amendments.

The Senate then took up the confiscation bill, Mr. BROWNING speaking against it.

HOUSE. – The Sutler question was discussed a long time.  The bill passed after being amended.  It requires a schedule of articles permitted to be sold, together with prices thereof, to be prominently posted.  Sutlers are prohibited from leasing out their offices, nor are they allowed to sell to the soldiers an amount exceeding one-fourth their monthly pay, nor shall a sutler have lien on the same.

Mr. POMEROY asked leave to offer the following:

Resolved that the United States ought to co-operate with any State which may adopt a gradual abolishment of slavery, giving such State pecuniary aid, to be used by such State at its discretion, to compensate for inconveniencies, public and private, produced by such change of system.  Adjourned.

WASHINGTON, March 11. – HOUSE. – Mr. BAKER introduced a bill, which was referred to the Committee of the Whole on the State of the Union, for the establishment of National foundries at Chicago, Ill., Pittsburg, Pa., and Poughkeepsie, N. Y., for the fabrication of cannon and projectiles for the Government.  It proposes the appropriation of half million dollars for each foundry.  It also provides for the establishment of an Armory and Arsenal at Columbus, Ohio, appropriating half a million dollars therefore.

Mr. KELLOGG of Michigan, introduced a bill for the establishment of a Naval Depot and Navy Yard on the Lakes.  Referred to the Select Committee on Lake Defences.

The House concurred in the report of the Committee of Conference on the disagreeing Judicial appropriation bill.

Mr. STEVENS reported back from the Committee on Ways and Means, the bill to establish a Branch Mint at Denver City.  Referred to the Committee of the Whole.

The Speaker announced the next business in order to be the motion to postpone until Thursday the resolution introduced yesterday, providing for co-operation with any State for the abolishment of slavery, with pecuniary compensation.

Mr. CRITTENDEN of Ky., asked permission to make a statement.

Mr. STEVENS of Pa., and Mr. LOVEJOY of Ill., objected.

Mr. STEVENS said, if consent was given to Mr. Crittenden, the House would have to give similar consent to others.

The House refused to postpone the resolution till Thursday, by one majority.

The House, by two majority, refusing to postpone the resolution till Monday next, left the resolution open to debate.

Mr. BLAIR, of Mo., offered to following proviso that nothing therein shall be construed to imply that Congress will consent to any portion of the Territory now held by the United States, but that on the contrary it is again offered as the unalterable resolution of the House, to prosecute the war until the Constitution is restored to all supreme, every every State rightfully a part of the Union.

Mr. PENDLETON suggested an amendment which was read for information as follows: – And that Congress, in order to redeem this pledge at the present session, ought to pass a bill for the levying and collection of a tax within the current year for the payment of the pecuniary aid so tendered to the State.

Mr. WICKLIFFE, of Ky., Opposed the pending resolution as unwise and unconstitutional.

SENATE. – Mr. SUMNER presented a petition for emancipation.

Mr. LATHAM gave notice that he should introduce a bill to repeal all acts providing for foreign vessels carrying the mails to Panama and Aspinwall.

Mr. WILSON, of Mass., offered a resolution that the Committee on Naval Affairs be instructed to inquire into the late engagement with the rebels steamers near Fortress Monroe, and the destruction of property there, and all the circumstances.

Mr. HALE said he did not wish to make any objection, but so far as he knew or had reason to believe, since the commencement of the rebellion, no matter what disasters occurred on sea or land, that neither the War or Navy Department, except in a single instance, has made the least enquiry in regard to the matter.

Mr. WILSON said from his absolute knowledge, the attention of the Department has been called to the rebel ship Merrimac.  It has been known for months that she has been fitting out, and people everywhere felt anxious, and the notice of the Government was called to it over and over again, and he thought the matter ought to be looked into.

Mr. GRIMES said in regard to the disaster a Month of the Mississippi, Government had done all it could.  The responsibility of the late disaster rests on the Government for not long ago sending a military expedition against Norfolk.  Officers of the Navy had been ready at all times to break to Potomac blockade, and the flotilla was under orders for several days for that purpose, but the supineness of a military officer, who commanded all the forces provided for the expedition prevented, and the responsibility did not rest on the Naval Department.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 15, 1862, p. 4

From Cairo

CHICAGO, March 13. – Special dispatches to the Post from Cairo 12th, say matters are little changed.

A lieutenant of the 60th Ohio arrived to-day from New Madrid.  His intelligence is not permitted to be telegraphed.  No change in matters at Fort Henry and beyond.

The Times’ special says the steamer Southwestern arrived to-day with troops.

Gen. Cullom left this morning for St. Louis.  Gen. Strong has taken command of this post.

(Tribune’s Special.)

Capt. Blodgett, of Boston has been assigned the command of the [Conestoga], retiring Capt. Pritchard.

The bodies of the 27 killed at Fort Donelson were brought down to-day, and will be sent to their friends to-morrow morning.  Part of them belong to Col. Logan’s regiment.  Col. Logan is improving.

It is reported that Gen. Paine was wounded in a skirmish near Sikestown, Mo., yesterday p. m., not seriously.

Several sick of the 7th Iowa came down from Fort Donelson this morning.  Their regiment has suffered severely in several engagements.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 15, 1862, p. 3

Second-Hand Chicago News

CHICAGO, March 12. – A special dispatch from Cairo, March 11th, to the Tribune says:  A brigade of our troops went around New Madrid on Saturday last and arrived Sunday at a small settlement on the Mississippi, called Point Pleasant, about ten miles below that place, and took possession of it.  The occupation of this place by our troops cuts off communication of the rebels at New Madrid.

The bridge upon the Cairo and Fulton Railroad has been repaired and trains run regular from Bird’s Point to Scoville.

A large number of scouts from the 51st Illinois regiment arrived last night.  The regiment is now with Gen. Pope.

Waterhouse’s Chicago Battery is now encamp[ed] just north of the city.  Twenty-eight are on the sick list.

Brig.-Gen Cullom, Chief of Gen. Halleck’s Staff and Chief Engineer of the Department of Missouri, returns to St. Louis immediately, impaired health rendering a change necessary. – Gen. Strong relieves him.

Authentic news received says the rebels have strongly fortified Island No. 10.  Our gunboats are thoroughly prepared for the emergency. – Steamers are also in readiness.

The Transport Hiawatha arrived this morning with supplies destined up the Tennessee.

The Times Special Cairo dispatch says it is learned that the rebels intend making a desperate stand at Fort Pillow.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 15, 1862, p. 3

Special to Evening Journal

CAIRO, April 10.

Your Chicago batteries have gained new laurels in the late struggle.  Taylor’s battery did fearful execution.  Their praise is in the mouth of every one.  Waterhouse’s battery was in the first attack, and was badly cut up, and its horses mostly killed.  Taylor is said to have protected his men by peculiar movements that dealt destruction to the enemy.  His batter followed the enemy within four miles of Corinth, and fought and performed wonders.  Their feats could not have been surpassed.

The 15^th Illinois regiment, under Colonel Ellis, was badly cut up, and most of its officers were killed.  Among them were Ellis, Maj. Godard, Capt. Wayne, and others.

Col. Davis, of Freeport, was shot through the lungs, but is still alive.  Gen. Wallace was shot through the head, the ball entering back of the left ear and coming out at the nose, taking out an eye, but he is not dead as reported.  The 20^th Ill. regiment is badly cut up.  Gen. Cullum arrived here to look after the defences of the river.  The list of prisoners captured at the Island foots up to 4,386 rank and file.

Transports have gone down to bring the prisoners to Cairo.  What disposal will be made of them is unknown.

The value of property captured at Island No. 10 amounts to over $2,000,000.

As the Continental rounded Ft. Cairo this morning Gen. Strong fired a salute of 13 guns in honor of Maj. Gen. Halleck.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, April 12, 1862, p. 2

Special to the Chicago Tribune

CAIRO, April 8.

Dispatches from New Madrid are received.  The gunboats Carondelet and Pittsburg shelled and silenced the batteries on the opposite shore, when Pope ordered the troops across; it was effected without loss.  The rebels fled toward Tipton, sinking several of their transports, among others the Grampus.

The floating battery of the rebels, mounting ten guns, drifted down last night, and aground near Point Pleasant.  It will be recovered with its armament.  The Ohio Belle was also recovered.

Gen. Paine led the advance on the batteries.  Gen Pope at once took the Pittsburg and Carondelet, and with a part of his army hastened to Tipton, attacked the enemy this morning and took 2,000 prisoners, mostly from Arkansas and Louisiana.  He will probably get as many more before night.  The rebels fled to the swamps in great consternation.

The victory is complete and decisive.  Great quantities of stores, cannon and ammunition have fallen into our hands.  All the baggage and supplies are taken.

Gen. McCall, of the rebel Adjutant General’s department, is a prisoner.

The country between New Madrid and the Island, on the east side of the river is being scoured by our troops.  Many prisoners will doubtless be taken there.

Gen. Bissell, with transports is ordered down to Tipton by Gen. Pope, which is 12 miles below New Madrid, to bring cannon and other property up to New Madrid.

Divisions of our army are pursuing the fleeing rebels in all directions.  Their entire force at and about Island No. 10 is either taken prisoners or utterly routed and demoralized.

Hon. Emerson Etheridge has just arrived from Paducah – to him the news of our success is specially grateful.  His residence is 35 miles southeast of Hickman.  General Strong will send an escort with him to his home, to insure his safety.  Thousands of his former friends will great his arrival with a glorious welcome.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, April 10, 1862, p. 2

CHICAGO, April 9 [1862].

The Tribune’s special from Cairo, of the 8^th says:

Boats commenced running to New Madrid to-day.  The river has fallen four feet within the last two days, greatly facilitating the operations of Gen. Pope opposite New Madrid.

H. Jesse K. Dubois is here, en route for the upper Tennessee.

Hon. Emerson Etheridge has telegraphed to three hundred citizens of Bourbon county, Tenn., driven out by the rebel troops, to come down and return with him.  They will probably leave to-morrow.

Reliable reports from Jeff. Thompson a week ago, place him in the swamps some eighty miles from here, with a few hundred marauders.  Several men who have heretofore been in his army, from the vicinity of Charleston, twelve miles from here, in Missouri, have petitioned Gen. Strong for privilege to take the oath and return to their allegiance.  The general authorized the county clerk, a good Union man, to take bonds and administer the oath.

Dr. Simons, medical director, leaves this evening for the Tennessee with two large hospital boats, most completely fitted out under the direction of J. E. Yeatman, of the St. Louis Sanitary Commission.  They contain eight hundred beds for the wounded.  The hospitals here have accommodations for 1,400.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, April 10, 1862, p. 2

From Tennessee

Special to the Tribune.

CAIRO, March 28.

A gentleman who has just returned from Pittsburg and Savannah, on the Tennessee river, reports that on Sunday and Monday last Gen. Sherman sent a reconnoisance in force to Pea Ridge, near the line of the Mobile and Ohio RR., where it had been reported the rebels were fortifying.  The reconnoisance was complete in every particular.  No enemy, however, was found in the neighborhood.  The expedition returned to Pittsburg on Tuesday.  Our forces at Pittsburg are being rapidly augmented, steamer after steamer arriving continually, loaded with fresh troops.

The latest advices from the rebel camp at Corinth give the strength of the rebel force there at 170,000.  Recent indications relative to the persistent efforts of the rebels to fortify the town of Corinth would seem to demonstrate an intention to make a vigorous resistance there.

It is, however, the general belief of all prominent officers of Gen. Grant’s command that the rebels will retire on our approach, but should a battle occur Corinth will doubtless be one of the hardest fought and bloodiest affairs of the present war.  On Sunday last information was received at the headquarters of Gen. Grant, that a considerable amount of pork was stored at a point on the river, called Nichols’ Landing, sixty miles south of Savannah, Tenn.  Maj. M. Smith, of the 45th Ill., with one hundred and fifty infantry and Capt. Osbonad’s Co., 48^th Ill. Cavalry, was dispatched on the steamer to secure said property.  Arriving at Nichol’s Landing information was given by contrabands, concerning the locality of the pork in question.  Within a circuit of fifteen miles, fifteen thousand pounds of fresh pork, forty-five thousand pounds cured hams, shoulders &c., were discovered and confiscated.  They were then placed on the steamer, brought to Savannah and turned over to the Commissary department.

Nichols’ Landing and vicinity has been a mart of the pork business for the C. S. A. for a long time.  Immense quantities have been sought and stored there for the use of the Confederate army.  Had information arrived two weeks earlier it would have secured to us two hundred thousand pounds of meat.  Within that time the rebels have transported large quantities southward by teams.

On Monday the gunboat Taylor ran up the river to the vicinity of Eastport, near which point masked batteries opened upon them at a distance of two hundred yards, one shot striking the smoke-stack of the Taylor.  A number of shots were exchanged, with what effect on the enemy’s works is unknown.  The engagement was extremely spirited while it lasted.  Upwards of fifty shots being fired.  The Taylor received no other injuries than those above stated, and nobody was hurt.

Captains Bedard and Carson of Gen. Smith’s scouts returned to Savannah from Nashville, overland, on Tuesday night, as bearers of dispatches from Gen. Buell.

Gens. Nelson’s, Thomas’s and McCook’s divisions of Buell’s column reached Duck River on Sunday last.

Capt. Bedard reports a strong loyal sentiment in several districts of Tennessee.

Between Columbia and Savannah he overtook certain bands of marauding rebels, but their identity not being suspected they were allowed to pass unmolested.  Union men live in extreme fear of these marauders, who are prowling about in the vicinity, and are anxious for the approach of Government forces.

A man named Morris, one of the Jessie Scouts, was hung at Savannah on Sunday for horse stealing and other depredations from private citizens thereabouts.

Gen. Grant has entirely recovered from his recent illness.  Gen. Smith is still confined at his headquarters, but convalescent.

A steamer arrived from the flotilla early this morning, and reports no change in the condition of affairs at Island No. 10.  The bombardment continues with but little intermission, but results are unknown.  No sign of evacuation by the rebels.

Rumors were current that rebel gunboats had passed Pope’s batteries at Point Pleasant from below, but they can be traced to no reliable source.  The story is undoubtedly a canard.

The rebels are impressing citizens of Kentucky and Tennessee into service, and arming them with axes and pikes.

Four rebels armed with Arkansas “toothpicks” were arrested near Charleston yesterday and brought to Bird’s Point.  They claim to be refugees from Tennessee, but their story is disbelieved.  They remain in close custody.

Gen. Strong visited the Island to-day.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, March 31, 1862, p. 2