An Old Confidence Transaction

Here is an anecdote of a confidence man, told by M. Pasquier, who was a Prefect of Police in Paris under the first Emperor:

“A magnificent carriage drove up, one day, to the door of a rich jeweler in Paris, and a well-looking, important, and overdressed gentleman alighted from it.  He said he wanted a complete wedding parure, consisting of a lady’s set of diamond ornaments, the price limited to 200,000 francs, equal to $40,000. – From several designs, which he examined with the evidently practiced eye of a connoisseur, he selected one, which he desired might be executed within five days, and insisted on leaving four thousand francs with the jeweler as a deposit.  He also selected a ring, worth 120 francs, which he begged might be sent to him the next day, giving his address as Prince Gargarin, Hotel Hollande, Rue de la Paix, which was a more fashionable house in 1805 than it is in 1862.

“The jeweler’s messenger called at the appointed time, and was shown into an apartment in the second story.  There were five or six liveried lackeys in the antechamber, one of whom escorted him to the Prince, who received and examined the ring, paid for it and presented ten francs to the messenger, who returned home, joyfully congratulating the jeweler on having so wealthy and liberal a customer.

“On the fifth day, as agreed, the jeweler carried home the diamonds and found the Prince in his study, sitting before his cylindrical secretaire.  His Highness minutely inspected the jewels with a glass, and suddenly one of the valets announced ‘Prince Dolgoronki.’  ‘Ah!, my brother-in-law,’ exclaimed his Highness.  ‘I do not which him to see the presents with which I intend surprising his sister.  Request him to stay in the drawing room and I will immediately join him.’

“Touching the table, the cylinder moved and the secretaire closed.  The diamonds were within it – but on the table was an open box filled with plump leather bags, and numerous rouleaux of louis were huddled together confusedly.  On his arrival the jeweler had noticed all this treasure, and more especially a large Russia leather port-folio, well lined with bank notes, the rough edges of which were visible.

“The Prince quitted the room, saying that he would immediately return.  The polite jeweler begged him not to hurry himself.  Twenty minutes elapsed, which seemed like three hours to the jeweler, over whom a vague apprehension crept.  The door opened – Oh! Here is his Highness, he thought.  No.  It was the master of the hotel, who asked if he was waiting for any one. ‘For the return of Prince Gargarin,’ said the jeweler.  ‘I have just sold him a set of diamonds for 200,000 francs.  Are you his secretary?’  The maitre d’hotel shook his head and sadly said, ‘I am his dupe, and so are you, I suppose.’  ‘Impossible!  The diamonds are shut up in that secretaire.  Besides, look at all this money.’

“Alas, the leathern bag which he seized was filled with nails.  The rouleaux were of wood.  The Russian leather portfolio contained scraps of waste paper.  However, there was one consolation – the diamonds were safe.  A locksmith was sent for – the secretarie opened, and found – empty!  It stood flush up against a wall, in which a hole had been made, and there being a corresponding hole in the back of the secretarie, the jewels had readily been removed into the next room.  The jeweler, as he well might be, was in despair.  The master of the hotel had been swindled.  All the servants were his except the valet de chamber, who was the confederate of ‘the Prince.’  They had decamped, without suspicion, at the door of the hotel.  All efforts to discover them were ineffectual.

“The poor jeweler nearly ruined by this robbery, had to remove his much diminished business to another part of Paris, where his name sunk in that of his partners.  Many years after he received a message from one Monsieur Teron described as a gentleman holding an official situation, who desired to purchase some rings.  Instead of sending a clerk he went himself, and was shown into a partially lighted bed chamber where, in the invalid in bed he recognized his old customer the cidevant Prince Gargarin. – The recognition was not mutual, and the jeweler held his tongue and bided his time.

“From the rings exhibited, a few were selected to the value of 6,000 francs, and M. Teron, declaring that he had not the means of paying in cash, asked if the jeweler would exchange against a curious snuff-box, which he declared to be of great value.  This was an octagon shaped china snuff-box, ornamented with ten miniatures by Clinchsteil, set in gold and rubies.  No one knew its value so well as the jeweler, for it was one which had been stolen from him shortly before Prince Gargarian’s visit.  Moreover, he knew what few others did, that it had a secret spring by means of which all the miniatures could be taken out of their settings and their reverses exhibited, on which were painted subjects treated with admirable skill, in the indelicate style peculiar to the age of Louis XV.

“Without any hesitation, the jeweler valued the box at 50,000 francs, which was more than M. Teron expected.  The jeweler on the other hand, said it was probably worth even more and made this proposal:  “Take the rings you have chosen, and put the box in an envelope, stating it to be my property – if it does not bring more than 50,000 francs, you shall have the rings for nothing.”

“Gratified al the idea of being able to obtain the rings without opening his purse, M. Teron assented.  Two of his neighbors, one of them a notary, were sent for, and the invalid asked “Who shall fix the price of the box?”  “You, sir,” said the jeweler.  “I will lay a wager that you will value it at 500,000 francs.  Let me tell you in private a circumstance connected with this box which will enable you to perceive its true value.”

“M. Teron, curious and anxious enough now, gave his consent, and the two referees retired.  Then the jeweler said, “Sixteen years ago that snuff-box was stolen from me, when I traded on the Boulevard des Italiens – a few days before I was robbed of 200,000 franks’ worth of diamonds by yourself, under the assumed name of Prince Gargain.  My evidence relative to the loss of the box is on the records of the police.  You now declare the box to be yours.  I have already sworn that I purchased it at a public sale.  The man who sold it to me is still alive.  I know a secret about the box which will further prove my ownership – a secret which you have not discovered.  Unless you fully repair all wrong you have done me, I shall at once have you arrested as a thief.  I give you five minutes to determin.”

Within that time thus driven into a corner M. Teron, who really was an invalid, handed his keys to the jeweler and bade him open a drawer, in which he would find 300,000 francs in billets la banque, and signed a cheque for 200,000 francs more, payable at his banker’s that same day.  This done the witnesses were recalled.

“Gentlemen,” said the jeweler, exhibiting the bank notes and check, “you see that M. Teron has become aware of the value of the box.  He has purchased it back from me for five hundred thousand francs.  Is it not so?”  “Yes,” sighed M. Teron, “I have given him that sum.”  “Then,” said the jeweler, “here is the box, and I will let you have the rings into the bargain.  You may explain the mystery as you please; for my part, I promise eternal secrecy.”

The jeweler retired, leaving the witnesses in amaze and M. Teron in dismay.  The notary was unable to keep silent, and the police eventually unraveled the mystery, though the jeweler faithfully observed his promise of secrecy.  M. Teron, who was so immensely rich as to leave three millions of francs to his heirs, never recovered from the mortification of having been detected and compelled to refund, with compound interest.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Gov. Andy Johnson’s Policy

You must not suppose, from any signs of discontent observable in my letters I have despaired of seeing the Government show its teeth at Nashville.  Governor Johnson has always cherished a passion for first hoodwinking and then catching the politicians; and I am disposed to believe he is tickling his fancy, in the morning of the Provisional Government, as well skilled anglers amuse themselves and accomplish their purpose in trout fishing.  He is waiting perhaps to see the cork sink well under water.  There is something ominous in his very sweet language, when he says: “I feel called upon to appeal, not only to the charitable, but especially to those who have been instrumental, in seducing their misguided citizens to this sad degree of suffering, and who have been co-laborers in the unholy work in which they are engaged, to come forward and contribute to their relief.”  There will be some sport soon, I guess, for the people’s amusement, and for the edification of political puppies.

There was a slight symptom of activity on Saturday in the arrest of T. M. Brennan, who figured and fattened so largely as manufacturer of cannon here, with his brother, J. C. Brennan.  The proceeding rather took us by surprise, and I suppose it agreeably disappointed the Federal soldiery.  The Alderman and Common Council elected to their position by the disordered public stomach, have been trying to persuade our policemen to refuse the oath of office required by the Governor.  But in spite of all efforts, and the mutual hesitation meeting in the City Hall, many of the police have come forward and subscribed heartily to the oath of allegiance. – Nashville Cor. Cin. Gaz.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Friday, May 2, 1862

It is warm and pleasant. The water is very scarce at this camp and poor in quality. We hear the sound of cannon in the front every day. The Sixth Division is in the second line of battle, but we are building no fortifications, as we are moved from right to left, as the case may be, in support of either wing of the army whenever reinforcements are called for.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 47

A letter writer who visited the Pea Ridge battle ground, a few days after the fight, says:

The tremendous effect of shot and shell among the trees, the rows of fresh graves where the dead soldiers were buried, and the intolerable stench rising from the decaying carcasses of scores of dead horses and mules, I must confess, had a tendency to take out some of the poetry and romance of war from me, and picture rather vividly the prose of this scourge.  In one place our men saw about one hundred cold Cherokee Indians, whose carcasses are respected no more than so many mules. – They came into the battle with one side of their faces painted black, and the other red, signifying that they would give no quarter.   But they were of no account in the battle, as a shell thrown near them would put them to rout in no time.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Accepts The Invitation

The other evening a humorous member of the New York Legislature wrote a note to a sensitive member from an extreme Western county, saying that a lady in the gallery had been attracted by the fine appearance of said member, and would like to meet him.  If the desire was mutual, the “lady” wished the gentleman from C_____ to hold a newspaper in each hand, so that she could see the signal.  The note having been dispatched to the member, the wicked author posted all those around him, and soon half the Chamber awaited the developments.  The unfortunate legislator read the note, cast a sentimental glance at the ladies’ gallery, and seized two Tribunes, and held them aloft with all due energy.  A loud laugh from those around him followed, but this will be about the first notice he has received of the rather practical sell. – He is yet looking for “that woman.”

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

We have sent our old friend Roger Hanson . . .

. . . a five-gallon demijohn of good whiskey.  Roger is still a zealous rebel and will soon be recruiting in Fort Warren. – {Louisville Journal.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

The Free Negro Population

The subjoined table, compiled from the census of 1860, is interesting at this time.  It will be seen that the free negro population of the South is considerably in excess of the North:

NUMBER OF FREE NEGROES
In the Free States.		In the Slave States
California	3,816	Alabama	2,680
Connecticut	8,542	Arkansas	137
Illinois	7,069	Delaware	19,723
Indiana	10,869	Florida	908
Iowa	1,023	Georgia	10,146
Kansas	623	Kentucky	10,146
Maine	1,195	Louisiana	18,638
Massachusetts	9,454	Maryland	83,718
Michigan	6,823	Mississippi	731
Minnesota	229	Missouri	2,988
New Hampshire	450	North Carolina	30,097
New Jersey	24,947	South Carolina	9,648
Ohio	36,225	Texas	339
Oregon	121	Virginia	57,579
Pennsylvania	66,373	Dist. Columbia	11,107
Rhode Island	3,918		259,078
Vermont	582
Wisconsin	1,481
	222,747

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Thursday, May 1, 1862

We received marching orders, and striking our tents moved four miles further toward Corinth. All of the Sixth Division moved forward today. We went to work and cleaned up our camp in a heavy piece of timber. This is camp number 3.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 47

4th Iowa Cavalry: Regimental Flag

4th Iowa Cavalry Regiment

Cloth (silk, cotton); pigment

American Civil War

NOTE:  Of special interest in the canton of this regimental flag.  The design reflects that of a regimental flag.  The eagle carries a ribbon in its beak which has the State of Iowa motto painted on it.  On talon grasps a cache of lightening bolt arrows and the eagles head faces toward the hoist.  These are indications that this is a war flag.

SOURCE:  Interpretive sign (at right) next to the flag.  Displayed at the museum of the State Historical Society of Iowa, Des Moines, Iowa, November 2012.

Andrew Johnson and the Traitors

Col. Forney writes from Washington to the Philadelphia Press:

Andrew Johnson is as bold in denouncing treason in Nashville as he was in Washington.  He does not hesitate, as some of our Northern politicians do, when seeking to find the authors of our calamities.  In Tennessee he could safely locate this responsibility upon the Abolitionists and Black Republicans;  he could imitate the Breckinridgers of Pennsylvania and other Free States by criticizing and condemning Republican legislation.  Disdaining all such shallow tricks, however, he tells the rebels that it was not Mr. Lincoln and his friends who refused all compromise, but the Secession leaders, and that these later could have carried the Crittenden proposition if they had not persistently determined to break up the government and to dissolve the Union.  When the day of reckoning comes, when the public stewards go before the people to render an account, Andrew Johnson’s words will drive the plausible falsehoods of the Breckinridgers away, like so much chaff driven by the whirlwind. – They will talk against the tax, against the republicans, against confiscation and in favor of a dishonorable peace.  He, and the millions who believe in him, will assume a high and manly ground – that, as the war was begun by the rebels, they must be made to feel the indignation of the Government they have assailed, and that they are no patriots, who in their sympathy with the rebels, labor only to restore them to power by embarrassing and misrepresenting the Administration.  This will be the ground of Johnson and the honest masses of the United States.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Chivalric Warriors

It was the chivalry of South Carolina who started the rebellion.  It was they who led off in the drama of secession.  The first company of volunteers against the Union was raised in the Palmetto State.  The first rebel gun was fired on the sacred soil of that wayward and pettish Commonwealth.  From Charleston and Columbia, its only cities, came the original statements of the universal cowardice and poltroonery of the “Yankees,” and those lofty boasts of the invincible courage of the citizens of South Carolina, who “could whip five to one of Lincoln’s mercenaries.”  Well, we have had nearly a year of war.  Where have the South Carolinians distinguished themselves?  They gathered some eight or ten thousand men, with the assistance of North Carolina and Georgia, about the harbor of Charleston, planted miles of batteries, drove out to sea the Star of the West, an unarmed transport, and compelled a garrison of less than one hundred men to evacuate Fort Sumter.  This is the sum of their glorious achievements.  At Bull Run the South Carolina troops were the first to run, whilst the Federals were in the tide of their first successes on that bloody field.  At Port Royal they scampered like sheep at the approach of the Federal fleet.  And this is the whole record of the Palmetto chivalry in the secession war.  Amongst the killed and wounded rebels in the bulletins of the engagements of this year, you look in vain for those belonging to South Carolina regiments.  They do not die in the last ditch.  They fail to offer themselves up as sacrifices for their bleeding country.  They do not exterminate the race of Yankees.  Whilst the record of the rebel Virginians, Tennesseans and others of the more Northern States of Secessia is full of valor and heroic daring, South Carolina, with all her vain-glorious vaunting, presents a page that is densely blank.  So much for barking dogs that will not bite!

The original seceders made a good thing of it when, finding there was going to be fighting to do, they coaxed the border States into their causeless and cruel war.  This explains their anxiety to get Missouri, Kentucky and Maryland into their Confederate concern, after they had succeeded in seducing Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina and Arkansas. – The brunt of the hard work, the raising of men and means, and the fighting itself, has all fallen on the poor dupes that were cajoled into Secessionism after the rebel government was organized at Montgomery, whilst the aristocratic gentlemen of the cotton States have had comparatively an easy time of it.  These latter congratulated themselves that the horrors of war would be kept far away from their immediate neighborhoods, but they are soon to find out – indeed, they are having a taste of it already – that they reckoned without their host.  We feel exceedingly sorry, of course, for the people of Charleston, whom late reports represent as getting very much frightened. – {St. Louis Republican.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

From Fortress Monroe

FORTRESS MONROE, April 5. – The Mobile Advertiser of the 4th has a special message from Memphis stating the Buell’s army reached Savannah, on the Tennessee river, and there had been brisk skirmishing, and great activity on both sides for the great struggle.

MOBILE, April 4. – Wednesday a Yankee force of 2,000 strong landed at Biloxi and cut the telegraph lines between Mobile and New Orleans.

There is authority from the War Department for saying that dispatches from Fortress Monroe, dated 3 P. M. Sunday had been received.

A reconnoissance had been made towards Yorktown.  The headquarters of our army are now about five miles from Yorktown.

There had been some cannonading, but with out injury on either side.

FORTRESS MONROE, April 5. – The latest intelligence received of the Virginia, otherwise Merrimac, is dated Norfolk, last night.  She was then coaling at the Navy Yard and was expected to come out to-day.  Capt. Pegram is still mentioned as likely to command her.

The Yorktown, Jamestown and Teazer and four other gunboats are at Norfolk.

A deserter who came in this morning reports the force on the Peninsula not so large as supposed.

Magruder’s headquarters are at Lee’s Mills.

Three tugs arrived from Newberne Thursday, bringing little news of interest.

Reports are current that Burnside has been ordered to evacuate Newberne within six days, and he replied that he would not.

The rebels at Goldsboro’, Raleigh and fort Macon still hold out.  Extensive preparations are being made for the reduction of the Fort. – A few shells had been already thrown at it.

FT. MONROE, April 7. – Nothing has been done in front, Yorktown except reconnoissance in that direction and some skirmishing.

A telegraph has been established at headquarters near Yorktown.

The Spaulding came in this morning from Shippings Point.  The rebel works abandoned there are quite formidable.  The rebels took off their guns.  Shippings Point is about eight miles from Yorktown, affording a fine base of operations.

A great crowd of Norfolk people assembled on the shore near Sewall’s Point on Sunday, including men, women and children, all eagerly engaged in watching the Yankees.

A Norfolk paper of this morning contains a dispatch from Mobile, dated the 6th inst., announcing the reception of news from Corinth that morning of a great battle – that the Confederates had taken Buell’s batteries, and a large number of prisoners.  It was expected that the whole Federal army would be swept away.  This is given as a specimen of the rebel mode of keeping up the spirits of the people, and the courage of the army.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Wednesday, April 30, 1862

We were routed from our beds of leaves at 4 o’clock and moved on two miles farther in the direction of Purdy, when we received word from General Wallace that we were not needed. We marched back to camp, arriving here about noon, in a heavy rainstorm, soaked to the skin and covered with mud. We had lain all night with rifle in hand, in a heavy timber, on beds of leaves, without blankets, and some of the boys caught cold. The Eleventh Iowa was inspected today for pay. Thus ends this month in old Tennessee.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 47

First Session -- 37th Congress

WASHINGTON, April 4. – HOUSE. – The House went into Committee of the Whole on the States of the Union, Mr. Webster in the Chair.

On motion of Mr. STEVENS, the bill to establish a branch Mint at Denver, in Colorado Territory, was taken up, and debate limited to five minute speeches.

Mr. VALLANDIGHAM said an allusion had been made in the Senate recently, to a Democratic conference held last week.  As to what took place there, he had no right to speak, but the injunction of secrecy did not apply to the call – which was in these words:

Democratic Conference. – We, the undersigned, members of the Democratic party, of the United States, determined to adhere to its ancient principles, and maintain its organization unbroken under all circumstances, as the party able to maintain the Constitution, to restore the old Union of the Sates, do hereby united in this call for a conference of all who may sign the same approving the objects indicated.

This call was signed by some thirty-five members of the Senate and House of Representatives.

Mr. STEVENS asked who signed it.

Mr. VALLANDIGHAM &c.  He continued, all of them are able to read and right.  No one made his mark.  If this did not refer to a political organization, he was not capable of understanding language.  The movement thus commenced would go on, and it was the determination of some that the organization should be completed.  Beyond this he was not able to speak.  His name was appended to the call.

The Committee rose and the bill for the branch Mint ad Denver passed.

The House went into committee of the whole.

Mr. BEAMAN expressed his views in favor of establishing Territorial Governments in the so-called Confederate States.

The committee rose and the House adjourned till Monday.

Several bills relating to the District of Columbia, were passed, and after Executive session the Senate adjourned till Monday.

WASHINGTON, April 8. – HOUSE. – Mr. VALLANDIGHAM offered a resolution, which was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, proposing with the consent of the Senate to adjourn on the third Monday in May.

Mr. ARNOLD read a dispatch from Com. Foote to Secretary Wells, dated Island Nol. 10, saying that two officers of the rebel Navy from Island 10, boarded the Benton yesterday, offering to surrender the Island.  The dispatch was received with rounds of applause.

The House resumed the consideration of the amendments to the tax bill.  Among other amendments concurred in, are the following:

Every person owning a dog to pay a tax of one dollar; pleasure or racing vessels, under the value of six hundred dollars, shall pay a tax of five dollars, when not exceeding one thousand dollars in value, ten dollars, and for every thousand dollars additional, ten dollars; organs and melodeons kept for use [or on] sale, according to value, from 60 cents to $6.  All dividends in scrip or money or sums of money hereafter held due or payable to the stockholders of any railroad company, as part of the earnings, profits or gain of said companies, shall be subject to pay a duty of 3 per cent on the amount of all such interest or coupons or dividends, whenever the same shall be paid.

Duties of dividends of life insurance shall not be deemed due until such dividends shall be payable by such companies, banks, trust companies or savings institutions.

Insurance companies are authorized and required to deduct and withhold from all payments made to any persons or parties on account of any dividends or sums of money that may be due and payable as aforesaid from the 1st of May next, the said debt or sum of 3 per cent.

Foreign bills of exchange or of credit drawn in, but payable out of the United Sates, if drawn singly, or if drawn in sets of more than one according to the custom of merchants and bankers.  For every bill of exchanged State or drawn on any Foreign country, but payable to the United States, where the sum made payable shall not exceed five hundred dollars, or the equivalent thereof, in any foreign currency, in which such bills may be exposed according to the standard value fixed by the United States, shall pay a stamp duty of five cents; the manifest of a part of a cargo of any vessel or custom of clearance shall pay a duty of twenty-five cents; a manifest in the custom house entry or clearance of the cargo of any ship, vessel or steamer, if the registered tonnage does not exceed three hundred, shall pay a duty of $1; upon every protest of every note, bill of exchange, acceptance, check or draft, in any marine paper, whether protected protested by notary public or any other officer who may be authorized by the law of any State to make such protest, there shall be paid a duty of 25 cents.

The proceedings were agreeably interrupted by Mr. COLFAX sending up to the clerk’s desk to be read:

______ Landing, Tenn., April 8, 8 p. m.

To Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War:

The enemy evacuated Island No. 10 last night.  It is occupied by Col. Buford of the 27th Illinois regiment.  Gen. Pope will capture all that remains on the high lands to-day.  The movement on the rear has done this work.

(Signed.)

THOMAS A. SCOTT.

This was received with loud applause and cries of good.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

How the Virginia is to be Used Up

In the debate in the Senate, on the Stevens’ floating battery, Senator Pomeroy of Kansas expressed his opinion that it will soon be demonstrated that any wooden vessel, and large ocean steamer, for instance, can run down such a battery as the Virginia and sink her.  He said if he was captain of the Minnesota he would lighten her, except for the stem and put her at her highest speed, and run her upon the Virginia and sink her.  The Boston Commercial Bulletin says on the same subject:

“If the Minnesota, or any other vessel of the same size, should run bows on with a speed of twelve knots an hour, striking the Merrimac on her broadside, she would sink her.  As for instance, in 1839 the ship Columbian, 500 tons, lying a Damon’s wharf, Charlestown, parted her bow hawser, and swinging with the tide run bows on against Charlestown bridge and cut it through.  In 1841, the ship Eli Whitney, of 400 tons, coming up the harbor with her three topsails set, run three quarters of her length into the end of Long wharf.  In 1850, a ship going up to the Docks in Liverpool became unmanageable and ran into the stone pier head, moving the stones some twelve or thirteen feet, and doing but comparatively little damage to the ship.  We believe there is tact and skill enough in our navy to dispose of the Merrimac if she ventures out of Norfolk.”

These sagacious and prophetic hints are getting common, and since half the people hereabouts already know what the project to be tried in Hampton Roads is, and the rebels are unquestionably well informed on the subject, there can be no harm in printing the fact that the ocean steamers Vanderbilt and Arago have been armed with strong iron prows, and are now awaiting the appearance of the Virginia, to try upon her the experiment suggested.  It is also stated that their upper works are protected by a covering of cotton bales, which are more impervious to cannon balls than iron.  The experiment will be a novel and exciting one, and if it shall turn out that iron-clad vessels can thus be destroyed by vessels of superior speed and momentum, new and important elements will be introduced into the calculation of the value of mailed ships of war.  The Virginia is undoubtedly ready to come out, and if she does not soon appear it will indicate that the rebels have lost confidence in her impregnability.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

1st Lieutenant William D. Templin, Company D, 32nd Iowa Infantry

The Flag Of The Red, White And Blue

Additional Verses to an Old Song.

BY REV. J. G. FORMAN.

I.

Blest banner of Freedom! Thy pinion

Floats wide o’er the land and the sea;

The emblem of peaceful dominion,

Our eyes turn with rapture to thee.

Though war-clouds and danger are o’er us,

Thy folds are still dear to our view;

With the flag of our country before us,

We march to the Read White and blue,

We march to the Read White and blue,

We march to the Read White and blue;

With the flag of our country before us,

We march to the Read White and blue.

II.

The glorious ensign ne’er sever,

Let it float in the ether above,

Its stars the bright symbol, forever,

Of Union and Freedom and Love.

May they never grow dim in their shining,

Nor fade from their colors so true,

The stars and stripes still entwining,

Hurrah for the Red, White and Blue.

III.

Though traitors shall meet and dissemble,

And armies of Rebels shall rise,

Our banner shall cause them to tremble

As it waves in the bright Southern skies;

And millions of patriot voices

Shall the chorus of Freedom renew,

And shout as the nation rejoices,

Hurrah for the Red, White and Blue.

Benton barracks, St. Louis, Feb. 1862.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Tuesday, April 29, 1862

We received orders this afternoon to march out towards Purdy, about twelve miles, to be in readiness as a supporting column to General Wallace in command of the right. He was expecting to be attacked by the rebels and sent for reinforcements. We went in light marching order without knapsacks, and we have to lie on our arms at night.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 47

Civilian Generals At The South

The southern civilian Generals have been very unfortunate in the present war.  There are eleven of this class, who received no military education, and who never before had a military command.  The following are their names:

Henry A. Wise, whipped in Virginia.

John B. Floyd, whipped everywhere.

Robert Toombs, never been in battle.

Richard Taylor, never been in battle.

Thos. B. Flournoy, never been in battle.

L. Pope Walker, whipped in the West.

F. K. Zollicoffer, killed in his first engagement.

Wm. Mahone, never heard of.

L. O. B. Branch,, whipped at Newbern.

Wm. H. Carroll, never on a field.

R. E. Rhodes, never on a field.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Battle In Tennessee

CHICAGO, April 8. – A private telegram was received in this city this evening dated Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, April 7, saying, we have fought and won the hardest battle ever fought on this continent.

The dispatch was from one of Gen. Grant’s staff.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Surrender of the Rebels at Island No. 10!

CHICAGO, April 8, P. M. – Island No. 10 surrendered last night to Com. Foote.  No Particulars yet.

CAIRO, April 8. – The Steamer Alps has just arrived from below with the cheering announcement that Island No. 10 is ours.  It was surrendered at midnight last night to Com. Foote, and Col. Buford’s forces now occupy it.  The rebels’ guns, transports, stores and provisions on and around the Island are in our possession. – The number of prisoners and guns taken is not yet ascertained.

Nothing from the Tennessee river, but news of a battle at Corinth is now anxiously looked for.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

From New Madrid

NEW MADRID, April 4. – A severe storm passed over camp this forenoon, and during its continuance we heard nothing of artillery practice at Island No. 10.

This afternoon the shower had passed, and the roar of the mortars is heard continually.  A furious bombardment is progressing; the peculiar rolling roar of the mortars reverberates across the country to the camp like the artillery of heaven.

The entire army will be paid off this week. – The Paymaster, escorted by two companies of cavalry, arrived to-day from Birkestown with the necessary funds.

The promulgation of Gen. Pope’s order relative to depredations upon the telegraph is creating the [liveliest] satisfaction.  The General means business, and holds the inhabitants individually responsible for the safety of the line.

A teamster who has just returned from Commerce, reports that S. G. Ritchen, the well known Colonel of the rebel Thompson’s band of thieves is in the swamps back of that post, with a squadron of rebel cavalry estimated at 200, and that fears are entertained that the Union men in that vicinity will be subjected to fresh persecutions.

Another report is current this evening that Jeff Thompson has assembled a force of considerable strength at Holand’s Island, at the terminus of the plank road extending westward from Point Pleasant, about 12 miles from this camp.  His position is represented by scouts as exceedingly strong and his defences so arranged that with an insignificant force he can withstand almost any army we can bring against him.

On Board the U. S. Gunboat Carondolet,

New Madrid, April 5.

At last the blockade is passed – the gauntlet is run – the navigation of the Mississippi is proved possible in spite of rebel guns and rebel fortifications.  The U. S. gunboat Carondolet, Capt. H. Walker, arrived this morning, at one o’clock having passed the fortifications of Island No. 10 and the batteries upon the main land opposite, and now lies safely moored to the shore under the guns of the upper fort at New Madrid.

The Carondolet left the fleet last evening at 10 o’clock, during a terrific thunder storm, and having taken barge in tow, laden with hay and coal to serve as protection from the enemy’s balls, extinguished her lights, put on steam and rapidly sailed down the river.  The first intimation the rebels had of the attempt to run the blockade, was the fire which issued from the burning chimney of the gunboat, and immediately thereafter it was greeted with a shower of balls from the infantry stationed at the upper battery – the same which was so effectually spiked a few days since by Col. Roberts.

A signal rocket was then sent up.  In an instant the entire line of batteries were a flame.  Four batteries on the Kentucky shore and one on the point of the Island fired in quick succession, but the Carondelet passed them all in safety, and unmindful of the leaden and iron shower which fell around, passed through the fiery ordeal unharmed, not a man injured, and excepting musket balls which struck the iron plated sides of the gunboat she was untouched.

The floating battery is located three miles below the Island, and bestowed a parting shower of blazing compliments as the Carondelet glided quietly by.

The Hollings’s Ram Manassas did not appear.

Officers and men acquitted themselves with admirable courage and fidelity.  During the intense darkness the officers could not make an extensive and satisfactory reconnoissance of the batteries, but the enemy probably did his best.  The fire was tremendous.

Mr. O. T. Fishback, of the Missouri Democrat, was on the Carondelet, while running the blockade, and to him we are mainly indebted for the above particulars.

NEW MADRID, April 5, 5½ P. M. – Mr. Scott, Assistant Secretary of War visited the Carondolet to-day with Gen. Pope, to congratulate Capt. Walker upon the achievement in running the blockade.  The Capt. visited Camp Donald and was escorted back to the gunboat by a company of cavalry.

There is nothing further from the fleet since the Carondelet ran the blockade.  Nothing has transpired, so far as we can learn, as to the damage the cannonading has already caused.

Prof. Steiner arrived this evening with his balloon to make a reconnoissanse of the enemy’s position along the river.

The Government Telegraph between this camp and Cairo is now in operation.

The steamer J. C. Cowan arrived to-day from St. Louis, bring two batteries of artillery.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Latest from Island No. 10

FLAGSHIP BENTON, ISLAND NO. 10,

EVENING of April 3.

At an early hour this morning a large object was seen moving up along the Island, and glasses revealed it to be the floating battery, which the rebels were towing into position, from which to command good range of the mortar boats. – When it got sufficiently near, a brisk fire was at once opened upon it, and in the course of half an hour the battery was struck several times – splinters being thrown in all directions, and several beams displaced.  One mortar shell fell and exploded directly inside, wrapping the inside in a cloud of smoke.  The fire must have been terribly destructive to the gunners, for the battery was immediately sunk to the water’s edge by the rebels, and towed back out of range.  The few shot previously fired from it fell some distance short, but evidently only from unskillful gunnery, as the ordnance as at other times proved of long range.

A shot from one of the new rifled Dahlgrens on the Benton, carried away the smoke-stack of the steamer thought to be the Lackland, which attempted to run reconnoitering along the Kentucky shore.

At one time a crowd of rebels could be seen busily at work on their upper battery, the guns of which were spiked two nights ago.  They were repairing the work apparently endeavoring to unspike the cannon.  Some shell were thrown at them, when they immediately disappeared, and did not return again.

A great source of annoyance for some time has been the steamer Winchester, lying sunk in the stream some distance from the island, and used by the enemy’s spies, who could from there watch easily every movement of the fleet.  An effort was accordingly made this morning to destroy it, and a mortar shell being lodged successfuly, the boat was soon in flames, and burned to the water’s edge.

The skillful firing to-day has rendered the foe extremely cautions; all their tents are moved back far out of range, and it is only at rare intervals that individuals show themselves.

Advices from New Madrid report affairs here quiet, and the fact is fully ascertained that the rebels have erected batteries on the Kentucky shore opposite New Madrid.  The ballon has been taken from herp.

The river is falling very rapidly, and it will soon be possible to land troops at any point wished along the banks here.  This will much facilitate operations.

CAIRO, April 5. – The firing at Island No. 10 last night disabled a floating battery of the rebels.  One shell struck directly in it, killing three of the men and disabling it so that it floated down towards the foot of the Island.  The firing to-day has been more active and has done good execution.

A messenger from New Madrid this evening reports that the rebels erected a battery last night opposite Point Pleasant, and this morning opened fiercely upon our works.  After firing for some time the battery was silenced by our guns, and a warehouse on the Kentucky shore was fired by our shells.  It and its contents were consumed.  No casualties on our side reported, and the loss of the rebels is not known.  Several must have been killed.  All quiet here.  No news from the Tennessee.

The bombardment to-day upon our side had been very heavy.  The mortars have kept up a regular and splendid fire.  The work admirably and with great precision.

At 2 o’clock this afternoon one o four shells struck the sunken steamer Winchester, which the rebels sank in the shoot.  The shell set her on fire and she was soon consumed.  She has been used as a rebel picket house.  The enemy has replied but a few times, and then wildly.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Monday, April 28, 1862

We had company drill at 9 a. m. The weather is getting very warm; the sun shines hot, and we are sweeping our camp with brush brooms. We are being kept quite active, the doctors, we hear, having told the officers that the men would have better health if kept at work.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 46-7

From Tennessee

ST. LOUIS, April 7. – Despatches from Gen. Halleck state that Gen. Sturgis and Gen. Craig have been sent to the Indian territory.

Gen. Buell’s advanced guard has reached Gen. Grant.

Andrew Jackson Nulty, of Tennessee, reports the arrest of several prominent persons engaged in the rebellion, and that the Union cause is working well.

Gen. Jackson is near New Market, Virginia.  Gen. Johnson is a Gordonsville.

A refugee who came in today reports that one thousand Union men in Rockham county have taken to the mountains at Elk river on the Blue Ridge with a determination to resist, with arms, their impressments by the rebels.  This statement is believed.  Gen. Jackson threatens to subdue them by force, which they determine to resist.

The forces in front of Fremont are retreating towards the Shenandoah mountains.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Washington, April 7 [1862]

A telegraph dispatch was received here yesterday announcing that Gen. Mitchell with the forces under his command, had reached Shelbyville, Tennessee, and had been received with great enthusiasm by the inhabitants of that place.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

A correspondent of the Utica Observer . . .

. . . writing from Missouri, speaks of the discovery of divers[e] interesting relics found in the rebel camp.  Among others two human ribs, bearing the following inscription: – “The ribs of a New York Zouave, July 21, 1861,” soup dishes made of human skulls, &c.  In a railway car on a road running out of Macon, Georgia, hangs, or did hang a human skull, purporting to be that of a Yankee soldier killed at Bull Run.  It is useless to talk about southern society declining towards barbarism – it is already there.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Washington News

WASHINGTON, April 4. – Attorney General Bates has given his opinion that acts of January, and August, 1813, granting pensions for wounds or disabilities are applicable only to the forces thereby created, and will not cover the cases of those called into service by the acts of 22d July last, nor are their widows and orphans entitled to pensions under the act of 4th of July 1836.

Grave doubts may be suggested whether the existing laws make provision for pensions to the widows of those now in service who may die from disease or be killed in battle, and upon the whole question the Attorney General inclines to the opinion that there is no adequate provision of law by which such widows are entitled to a pension in addition to the bounties conferred by the acts of July last, the militia received under the Presidents Proclamation of the 15th of April 1861, which was in accordance with the law of the 2d August, 1813, and in cases of wounds and disabilities, entitled to pensions under its provisions.

Previous to adjournment to-day Senator Trumbull gave notice that he would call up the confiscation bill, and press it until disposed of.

An official war bulletin from the War Department creates two military departments.  First, that portion of Virginia and Maryland, lying between the mountains and the Blue Ridge, to be called the Department of the Shenandoah, to be commanded by Gen. Banks.  Second, that portion of Virginia, east of the Blue Ridge and west of the Potomac and the Fredericksburg and Richmond Railroad, including the district of Columbia and the country between the Patuxet to be called the Department of the Rappahannock, to be under command of Gen. McDowell.

WASHINGTON, April 4. – A military hospital has been ordered to be established and New Albany, Indiana, and Jefferson Barracks, near St. Louis, has been converted into a military hospital.

The Secretary of War has communicated to Congress his opinion that the present organization of the Medical Bureau is inadequate to the service.  He has authorized the Surgeon General, of New Jersey, under the direction of the Governor, to organize a Volunteer Surgeon Corps, to render medical aid when requested.

A similar organization has been made under the Governor of Pennsylvania, and valuable service has been rendered.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Beauregard Out-flanked and Compelled to Fall Back!

NEW YORK, April 5. – The World’s special says private information, derived from a responsible source, has reached here that Beauregard has been out-flanked near Corinth and compelled to fall back, , and that a heavy body of troops is between the enemy and Memphis, and not far from the Mississippi.  Glorious news, adds the world, may be expected in a day or two.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Sunday, April 27, 1862

Today we had company inspection. We had to go to work and clean up our camp and parade ground. The camp is in the timber. The water is very scarce and poor at that.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 46

A Reconnoissance by Gen. Sickles

WASHINGTON, April 14. – The Times’ correspondent telegraphs to-night from Budd’s Ferry as follows:

Hooker’s Division, Thursday, April 3.

A corps of picked men belonging to the Excelsior Brigade left Liverpool Point under command of Gen. Sickles, early on Tuesday morning for Stafford Court House, on a reconnoissance; the troops landed at the Shipping Point Batteries and marched from thence past Dumfrees through Acqua [sic] to Stafford, C. H.  There was skirmishing between a body of 600 rebel cavalry and the advance corps of Sickles’ command, six miles this side of Stafford, and firing on both sides was continued until we reached that place.  The rebels in their retreat set fire to the town and all the stores.  Our forces promptly stopped the conflagration.  A lot of provisions, horses, stores, &c., fell into our hands.  From Brooke station a force of 1,200 rebel infantry and a battery of 6 field pieces were moving up to support the cavalry.  After remaining in Stafford C. H. for three hours, camp fires were built on the hill to deceive the rebels while our force withdrew from the place.  Gen. Sickles with part of his corps arrived back at Shipping Point this morning; the rest came to Budd’s Ferry opposite Liverpool Point.  Our casualties were two wounded and a few missing.  The corps marched forty-eight miles in seventeen hours over the worst mountain roads.  At Fredericksburg there are few troops, they are falling back to Richmond.  The citizens state that the Confederate Government intend abandoning Virginia.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

A Spirited Chase After Secesh

NEW YORK, April 5. – A special dispatch to the Philadelphia Inquirer, dated Middleburg, via Baltimore, April 4, says Col. George’s advance encountered 100 of Merrit’s and White’s cavalry and Price’s infantry at Middleburg, Va., last Saturday.  He drove in the rebel pickets outside of Middleburg, when he entered the town and discovered the infantry in retreat, and cavalry posted to make a stand.  One gun was placed to command the main street, and the 28th advanced by the approaches to the town, while the main body rushed through it with bayonets fixed and on a double-quick, driving the enemy before them.  Col. George dashed at the head and at one time he was within 200 yards of the rebel cavalry.  Col. George’s command scoured the country as far down as Albu, from which place it returned as far as Scietarville to assist at Winchester, but the battle there was decided before it could get further.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4.

Editor’s Note:  This article has been transcribed as it appeared in the Hawk-Eye, and seems to be riddled with errors.  A more accurate but still slightly differing versions of this article appear in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, April 7, 1862, p. 1 and The New York Times, April 6, 1862.

Distinguished Arrival

WASHINGTON, April 5. – The arrival here of Lord Edward Cavendish, son of the late Duke of Devonshire, Lord Cecil, of the Rifle Brigade, stationed in Canada, and Col. Percy of the Northumberland Percy’s, now also stationed in Canada, is regarded as an event which claims for them a cordial reception, they being considered as a type of  a more friendly class in England than the members of Parliament, correspondents of the Press, and others, who, after visiting the South, return to Great Britain sympathizing with the rebels.

The Secretary of War directs that hereafter no persons belonging to the United States service shall be permitted to take passage in any public transport without special permission of the War Department.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Saturday, April 26, 1862

Our regiment is now brigaded with Iowa soldiers, the brigade being completed today. Our brigade is composed of the Eleventh, Thirteenth, Fifteenth and Sixteenth Iowa Infantries, with Colonel Crocker in command.¹  We were inspected today by the general inspector of the army, and had all our accouterments on.

__________

¹ The brigade dating from April 27, 1862, became known as "Crocker's Iowa Brigade." It remained together throughout the war and maintains an organization to this day. — A. G. D.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 46

Army Regulations

WASHINGTON, April 5. – Complaints having been made by the commanders of military posts that movements are impeded and discipline relaxed by the presence of male and female visitors, the Secretary of War has ordered that no passes be granted to visit Fortress Monroe or other military posts to any person not engaged in military service, and has authorized commanders of military posts to remove all persons not engaged in the service.  Passes for the purpose of trade and business are also refused.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Sent to Fort Warren

PHILADELPHIA, April 5. – The Bulletin learns from a gentleman just from Washington that Surgeon General Clement A. Finally, who has been removed from the head of the Medical Department of the Army, has been sent to Fort Warren, and that he passed through here last night.  The cause has not been ascertained. – Dr. Finally is a native of Ohio, but a resident of Lafayette City.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Telegraph Cable

WASHINGTON, April 5. – A telegraph cable to reconnect Fortress Monroe with Cape Charles will soon be in working order, as the materials are already there, and three hours’ uninterrupted work, with favorable weather and smooth water will be sufficient for the enterprise.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

A Skirmish In Tennessee

ANOTHER GUNBOAT RUNS THE BLOCKADE.

__________

CHICAGO, April 6. – The Tribune’s Cairo special says:  A gentleman who left Pittsburgh, Tennessee, Saturday evening, confirms the rumor of a skirmish with the enemy on Friday evening.  He made a reconnoissance in force on Sherman’s Division.  The party consisted of two regiments of infantry, two pieces of artillery and 500 cavalry.  Our force lost one man killed and some half dozen were wounded.  The loss of the enemy is not known, further than that Gen. Sherman took 10 prisoners.  After a short skirmish the enemy retired.

Gen. Oglesby arrived from Tennessee this morning on a short furlough.

The officers in command up the Tennessee are actively engaged in brigading the troops.  The opposing armies are within twenty miles of each other and one may attack the other at any time.

Very heavy firing was heard here last night.

Arrivals this morning report that the Carondelet came up from New Madrid and attacked the floating battery of the rebels on Island No. 10.  The gunboats at the same time commenced firing.  The result had not transpired when the messenger left.

It is reported that Gen. Halleck is to be here to-day en route for Tennessee.

10 P. M. – We have glorious news to-night from New Madrid.  Last night the gunboat Pittsburgh ran the blockade in safety, under a terrible fire from the rebel batteries.  Four steam transports and five barges were also got through the slough from Phillips’ Landing above Island No. 10, by Col. Bissell.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

From Banks’ Advance

EDINBURG, Va., April 5. – The enemy attempted to retard the operations of our bridge builders, but we shelled them off.  One of the enemy’s videttes was killed 600 yards distant, by a sharp shooter of the Wisconsin 3d.  The enemy are encamped near Mount Jackson.

The positions occupied by our advanced batteries, commanding all elevations beyond Stony Creek, were selected by Gen. Banks on Tuesday amid the hottest fire of the enemy.  Jackson’s force is principally composed of impressed men, who refused to fight against us.  Those from Page and Rockingham counties retired to a point between these two counties and there entrenched themselves, defying Jackson’s attempts to compel them to join him.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Diary of Alexander G. Downing: Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, Friday, April 25, 1862

We struck our tents early this morning and marched about three miles to the southwest, and went into camp again, camp No. 2. We were brigaded over again. It rained all day.

Source: Alexander G. Downing, Edited by Olynthus B., Clark, Downing’s Civil War Diary, p. 46