September 26.–Capt. Stewart’s cavalry, numbering seventy-five men, to-day encountered forty rebel cavalry at Lucas Bend, Ky., whom they pursued into Jeff. Thompson’s camp at Belmont. Four rebels were killed, five captured, and many wounded. The remainder escaped to the woods. The Federal troops captured all the guns and pistols they could bring away with them. No Federal troops were injured.

–the Thirty-fifth regiment of Ohio Volunteers took possession of Cynthiana, Kentucky.

–at Louisville, Ky., W. G. Querton, formerly one of the editors and proprietors of the Courier, was arrested for aiding the Southern rebellion.

–The turnpike bridge over Green river, near Mumfordville, was burned by rebels.

–J. B. Archer, Captain of the steamboat Commercial, was arrested, but bailed in ten thousand dollars. The beat was also seized, but released on security being given to surrender her on demand to the Federal Government.– Louisville Journal, September 28.

–The Twenty-first regiment of Ohio Volunteers, left Findlay for Camp Dennison.–Ohio Statesman, October 2.

–In accordance with the recommendation of the President of the United States, published August 12th, this day was observed as a day of fasting and prayer.

September 25.–At Trenton, New Jersey, the Grand Jury came into the United States Court, and made a lengthy presentment “that complaints have been made before this Grand Inquest concerning certain newspapers published in this State, and copies of the following papers issued during the last few months have been submitted, and carefully examined, namely: The Newark Evening Journal, The Warren Journal, The Hunterdon Democrat, The New Brunswick Times, and The Plainfield Gazette; that during the most critical period, while the capital of the nation has been besieged by armed insurgents, while eleven States in actual rebellion have been striving, by invasion and treachery, to plunge other States still remaining loyal into open opposition to the National Government, these newspapers have been, up to a very recent period, persistently denouncing and libelling these to whom the great duty of National defence is necessarily intrusted; in thwarting their efforts for self-preservation, and fomenting rebellion by discouraging and opposing the only means by which it can be put down. While they cherish a due regard for freedom of speech they feel it their duty to repudiate and denounce the conduct of these journals; that while the Press may freely criticize public men and measures in the peaceful contests of party, yet in a war for the life of a nation, the Press, as well as individuals, should uphold the existing Government or be treated as its enemies. They consider their duty fully discharged in reference to these newspapers by this presentment, leaving them to the wholesome action of public opinion. They recommend all loyal citizens, all public officers, all municipal corporations, vigorously to withhold all patronage from such newspapers as do not hereafter give their unqualified support to the National Government.”

–Smithland, Kentucky, was occupied by the National troops to-day.–Stocking-knitting associations were organized by the ladies of Lebanon County, Pennsylvania,

–This day General William F. Smith, with a force of several thousand men from the camps in the vicinity of the Chain Bridge, on the Potomac, proceeded to Lewinsville, Va., for the purpose of reconnoitring and obtaining forage. Upon arriving at that place his troops were permitted to rest from about half-past nine o’clock A. M., till three o’clock P. M., when there came in sight a large force of Confederate troops, consisting of four or five regiments of infantry, one of cavalry, and six pieces of artillery. They came from Fall’s Church, and in a few minutes opened a fire of shot and shell upon the National troops, without, however, doing any other harm than slightly wounding one man. Their fire was returned by the batteries of Captains Griffin and Mott, who had thrown only Twenty-six shot and shell when the secessionists deemed it prudent to retire from the field. Their loss is not known. The object of the expedition having been accomplished, Gen. Smith, at about five o’clock, returned to his camp. He brought with him ninety-two loads of hay and corn, twenty sheep and twenty beef cattle– the sheep and cattle being the property of Quartermaster Means, of the Confederate service–and one prisoner, who mistook the National pickets for his own. He represents himself as an aid of Gen. Stuart. The Union troops of the expedition consisted of the New York Seventy-ninth, Third Vt., Nineteenth Indiana, and a portion of a Wisconsin regiment, with eighty regular cavalry, Griffin’s West Point battery, and a section, two guns, of Mott’s New York battery. [continue reading…]

September 24.–Louis Philippe d’Orleans, Comte de Paris, the heir of Louis Philippe, (the eldest son of his eldest son,) and Robert d’Orleans, Duc de Chartres, the brother of Louis Philippe d’Orleans, were duly commissioned as captains of volunteers in the service of the United States, and attached to Major-General McClellan’s staff as aids. These young princes made it a condition of their service that they should receive no pecuniary compensation.

–General Prentiss, U. S. A., assumed command of the National forces at St. Joseph, Mo. No man in the whole Western army could have been sent there who is more acceptable to the people north of the Hannibal and St. Joseph Railroad; and, under his command, the Union troops, whether Federal or State, are willing to do battle.–National Intelligencer, Sept. 28.

–A Portion of Colonel Geary’s force had an action to-day with five hundred rebels on the Virginia side of the Potomac, near Point of Rocks. They were sheltered on a high point on the Catochin Mountain, and in houses at the base. They were driven away by the rifles and battery of Colonel Geary, and the houses burnt. Several of the enemy were killed and wounded. None of the Federal troops were hurt.–N. Y. Times, Sept. 26.

–The Fifth regiment of Vermont Volunteers, under the command of Col. H. A. Smalley, passed through Jersey City, N. J., on their way to the seat of war. It numbers one thousand and seventy men.–Idem, Sept. 25.

–This night a party of about fifty mounted rebels rode into Warsaw, Ky., and broke into a building in which there were stored some arms belonging to the State, and carried them off. Six or seven Union men came up just as they were leaving, and were fired upon. The Union men returned the fire, killing one of the rebels and wounding several others. One of the Union men was wounded in the arm. The Union men had taken the locks off the guns that were stolen, intending to keep them off until they had organized their company.–Dubuque Times, Sept. 26. [continue reading…]

Sept. 23.–At Fortress Monroe, Va., Ross Winans, one of the Baltimore members of the Legislature, having taken the oath of allegiance, was this morning released.–Commodore Stringham was relieved by Captain Goldsborough.– Baltimore American, Sept. 24.

–This night a successful effort to burn the barn and haystacks around Munson’s Hill, Va., was made by Major Frank Lemon and Lieut. Chas. Dimoud, of the California regiment. At the forge of some blacksmiths they made some fifty or more conical slugs, and with these and a Sharp’s rifle they started for the line of our pickets, built a fire, and commenced heating shot. One of them with a cloth would drop the shot into the muzzle of the rifle, and the Major, being the best shot, blazed away. At the second shot the hay-ricks were in a blaze. In two more shots the barn caught. Out rushed the rebels, and made for the hill.

–Lieutenant Wilson, with a squad of the Fourth Cavalry, proceeded to Unity, a small place in the northern part of Anne Arundel County, Md., and seized a quantity of sabres, pistols, and muskets, in possession of secessionists in the neighborhood. They were a portion of the arms given to a volunteer company raised at the time of the John Brown raid.

–Five Hundred of the Fourth Ohio, with one piece of artillery; and Ringgold’s cavalry, seventy-five in number, under Colonel Cantwell; and four hundred of the Eighth Ohio, under Colonel Parke, make an advance from New Creek toward Romney, Va. They drove the rebels, seven hundred strong, out of Mechanicsburg Gap, and advancing stormed the town, causing the enemy, whose force numbered fourteen hundred infantry and cavalry, to retreat to the mountains with a loss of about thirty-five killed and a large number wounded. The National loss was three killed and ten wounded.

–At St. Louis, Mo., Charles G. Ramsay, the proprietor of the Evening News, was arrested this afternoon by order of the Provost-marshal, and taken to head-quarters for examination. His offence is publishing an editorial article today, entitled “The Fall of Lexington,” reflecting in bitter terms on the campaign of the military authorities in the department of the West. His paper has been suppressed, and all the manuscript found in the office was seized, and the building is now in possession of a provost guard.–(Doc. 58.)

Sept. 22.–This evening, eight pickets of the Iowa Seventh regiment, out at the Cross Roads, a mile and a half from Eliott’s Mills, eight miles above Columbus, Ky., were suddenly approached by fifty or sixty rebel cavalry. The pickets fired, when the rebels turned and fled. Two or three of their number were seen to fall, but were carried off on their horses. One of their horses was killed. The accoutrements and pistols fell into the hands of the Iowa boys, and a riderless horse from among them also fell into their hands. Their wounded and dead were carried away. The rebels returned the fire before fleeing, but did no damage.

–A skirmish took place near Hunter, Mo., four miles below Norfolk. Three of the National troops and four horses were lost–N. Y. Tribune, Sept, 24.

–General A. S. Johnston, of the Confederate Army, having assumed command at Memphis, Tenn., issued a proclamation relative to the armed occupation of Kentucky.–(Doc. 57.)

September 21.–General Lane’s command surprised a superior force of rebels at Papinsville, Missouri, and, after a severe engagement, routed them, losing seventeen killed, and a large number wounded. The rebels lost forty killed, and one hundred prisoners, and all their tents, wagons, and supplies.

The gang of rebels who recently sacked the town of Humboldt, Kansas, was defeated by a force from Fort Scott, and their leader, Mathias, killed. On his person was found an order from Ben McCulloch for the enrolment of the Quapaw Indians.–National Intelligencer, Sept. 28.

–The British schooner Revere, of and from Yarmouth, N. S., with a cargo of salt fish, arrived at Boston, Mass., in charge of Henry W. Wells, master’s mate, and a prize crew from the United States steamer Cambridge. The Revere was captured while attempting to run the blockade at Beaufort, N. C.–N. Y. World, Sept. 23.

–The steamer War Eagle returned to Jefferson City, Mo., from an expedition on the Missouri River this evening. This steamer, together with the steamer Iatan, with the Indiana Twenty-second and Eighteenth regiments aboard, accompanied the steamers White Cloud and Des Moines, with the Indiana Twenty-sixth, as high up the river as Cambridge, where they captured the steamer Sunshine, seized a short time since by Green. They encountered no rebel troops. Union flags were flying at Glasgow. The White Cloud and Des Moines went on up the river to reinforce Lexington. While all four boats were lying up for the night, a short distance below Glasgow, two detachments were sent out to reconnoitre. They encountered each other, each mistaking the other for the enemy, fired, and before their mistake was discovered, four men were killed and several wounded. Among the wounded was Major Gordon Tanner, of the Twenty-second.–(Doc. 55.) [continue reading…]

September 20.–At Lexington, Mo., Colonel Mulligan surrendered to the rebel general, Price, after a fifty-nine hours’ fight without water; the only supply–from the river–having been cut off by the rebels, after a severe fight. The camp ground contained no springs or wells, and embraced ten acres, with breastworks around it, except the river front. The rebels procured bales of hemp and rolled them in advance, and under their cover succeeded in securing a position in the rear. They made but few assaults, their object being to surround the fort and cut off supplies of water, and this accomplished, wait till necessity compelled Mulligan to yield. Previous to the surrender, Colonel Mulligan offered to take a position on a level spot of ground and give General Price the odds of four to one in a fair open fight, but he declined. After the surrender the rebels mounted the breastworks, mad with joy, and trailed the National flag in the dust. A large amount of gold, supposed to be a quarter of a million, fell into the possession of the rebels. It had previously been buried by Colonel Mulligan, but was unearthed by the enemy. The brave Colonel wept like a child when he found himself compelled to surrender. –(Doc. 33.)

–The rebels troops evacuated Mayfield, Ky., this day. They numbered about seven thousand, under the command of General Cheatham, were nearly all armed, but poorly clothed and indifferently fed.

Mayfield is a small town, the seat of Graves County, on the railroad from Paducah to Union City, and midway between the two places. It is about thirty-six miles east of Columbus, Ky. –Chicago Tribune.

–A Federal scouting party from the Thirty-fourth N. Y. regiment at Darnestown, Md., went across the Potomac near the mouth of the Seneca, and were attacked by a superior party of the rebels. One of the Nationals was killed outright and several were wounded; one of the latter was shot through the cheek, but fled, pursued by the attacking party; on reaching a creek he threw off his gun and plunged in himself laying on his back and resting his head upon a stone with his mouth and nostrils above the water. He avoided his pursuers, and after three hours’ submersion he crawled to the shore of the river; his companions, who were concealed on the Maryland side, discovered and rescued him while making a vain attempt to swim across.

A skirmish took place below Fort Holt near Cairo, Ill., between company I, of the Tenth regiment, and a small party of rebels, in which the latter were routed.–Ohio Statesman, September 24. [continue reading…]

September 19.–At Louisville, Ky., this morning, the United States Marshal seized the office of the Louisville Courier, arrested ex-Governor Morehead, Reuben T. Marrett, one of the proprietors of the Courier, and Martin W. Barr, telegraphic news-reporter for the New Orleans press, on charges of treason or complicity with treason.–National Intelligencer, Sept. 21.

–The brig Hannah Eastel, with a forged clearance from New York for St. Thomas, having a large and valuable cargo, was seized at Elizabethport, N. J., this afternoon. The captain and crew escaped.–N. Y. Herald, Sept. 20.

–The Seventh regiment of New Jersey Volunteers left Trenton, this afternoon, for the seat of war near Washington. The regiment is commanded by Colonel Joseph N. Revere, and numbers seven hundred and fifty men, who have been mustered and equipped during the last thirty days.

–This afternoon, about four o’clock, a skirmish occurred beyond Bardstown Junction, Ky., between the Boone Guards, Company H, Captain Paul Byerly, and a secession company, supposed to be the Bitterwater Blues. None of the Boone Guards were hurt, and, if any injury was done on the rebel side, the darkness concealed it. The secessionists made only a running fight, and a very poor one too.–Louisville Journal, Sept. 20.

–An immense Union meeting was held at Bangor, Me., this evening. Over five thousand people attended. The meeting was addressed by some of the most prominent citizens, and the greatest enthusiasm was manifested.

–The Quebec (Canada) Mercury wishes the South to persevere in its course, in order to “break up the hitherto boastful Union;” and it desires that England and France may recognize the confederacy as the speediest way of destroying the Government. After that work is accomplished, that paper thinks that England will, in a little time, by productions of cotton in India, make herself independent of the Southern States in regard to that staple, and that, it further says, would lead to the emancipation of the slaves, and the final overthrow of both sections.–N. Y. Herald, Sept. 18.

September 18.–The Louisville Courier, having been found to be an advocate of treasonable hostility to the Government and authorities of the United States, -was excluded from the mails and post-offices of the United States until further orders.–Post Office Order.

The Seventh regiment of Connecticut Volunteers, numbering one thousand and seventy-two men left New Haven for the seat of war near Washington. The regiment is commanded by Colonel A. A. Terry.–N. Y. Commercial Advertiser, Sept. 19.

A correspondent Washington says that the Government has just discovered that the rebels are carrying on a contraband trade between Worcester County, Maryland, and Virginia. Large supplies of army stores have been transported to the rebels’ lines by this route. The necessary measures have been taken to stop the traffic.–A regiment has just passed down Pennsylvania avenue, headed by a soldier who 1ost a leg at the battle of Stone Bridge. He carried his musket strapped to his back. The spectacle excited the greatest enthusiasm among our citizens.

–The new gunboat Sagamore was launched to-day from Sampson’s yard, East Boston, Mass. Her keel was laid sixty days ago.–N. Y. Herald, Sept. 19.

–Yesterday a skirmish took place between the Home Guard and some of Gen. Zollicoffer’s men at Barboursville, Ky., without resulting in any damage. It was resumed to-day, when seven rebels and one of their horses were killed. One of the Home Guards received six wounds, and another was taken prisoner. The Home Guards numbered thirty-seven, and the rebels three hundred.–Two miles of the Covington and Lexington Railroad were torn up yesterday near Cyantheana.

September 17.–A fight took place at Mariatown, Mo., between six hundred Federals under Colonels Montgomery and Johnson and four hundred rebels, in which the latter were completely routed with a loss of seven killed, and one hundred horses and all their tents and supplies captured. The Nationals lost two privates killed and six wounded. Col. Johnson, while riding at the head of his command, was pierced by nine balls and instantly killed. Three bullets took effect in his head, two buck-shot in the neck, one bullet in the left shoulder, one in the left thigh, one in the right hand, and one in the left. He died, urging his men to fight for the Stars and Stripes.–Buffalo Courier, September 23.

–The Legislature of Maryland was prevented from organizing at Frederick by the arrest of its clerk and several of the members. During the evening the Union members of the House and Senate met in caucus and resolved that, the action of the Senators present in not assembling having virtually brought the Legislature to an end, they would return to their homes and not attempt again to assemble.

–This evening a train on the Ohio and Mississippi road, containing a portion of Colonel Torchin’s Nineteenth Illinois regiment, while passing over a bridge near Huron, Ind., one hundred and forty-three miles west of Cincinnati, fell through, killing and wounding over one hundred soldiers.–Louisville Courier, September 10.

–A large concourse of citizens from all parts of the State assembled at Hartford, Conn., today, to listen to Hon. D. S. Dickinson and others. General James T. Pratt presided. All the political parties of the State were represented, and places of business were closed during the meeting. Mr. Dickinson’s speech was one of his best efforts, and had a powerful effect. Senator Latham, of California, sent a letter of apology for his absence, full of patriotic spirit. Thomas Francis Meagher sent a despatch as follows: ” I cannot go to Hartford to-day. I go to the war. Talking is over. Fight is the word.” –National Intelligencer, September 20.

–Two fights occurred at Blue Mills Landing, Mo., to-day. The first was between five hundred of the Third Iowa regiment, with one piece of artillery, under Lieutenant-Colonel Scott, and about four thousand rebels. After a desperate struggle of an hour’s duration, in which Scott lost one hundred and twenty killed and wounded and all his horses, he retreated slowly half a mile, dragging his cannon by hand. He subsequently took a position with his howitzer on an eminence, and waited for the enemy to renew the attack. But he was not pursued. Not long afterward Colonel Smith’s command, with four pieces of cannon, approached Blue Mills by another road and engaged and routed the rebels as they were about crossing the Missouri River.–(Doc. 53.)

–The Fifteenth regiment (Elmira Engineers) N. Y. S. V., under the command of Colonel C. B. Stuart of Geneva, left Elmira for the seat of war.–N. Y. Herald, Sept. 22.

–Clement Smyth, the Roman Catholic Bishop of Dubuque, Iowa, in a letter to the Adjutant-General of that State, held the following language: “I ever avoid all matters of a political nature as foreign to my sacred duties, yet in this present hour of trial, when the honer and the happiness of our nation are at stake; when some prejudiced mind may construe my silence into a disrespect for you, whose friendship I highly prize, or into a criminal opposition to our National Government– the Government of the United States, the only one to which I owe fealty–it may not be departing too far from my usual course to say that my feelings and sentiments are for the Union, and though peace is now the darling object of my ambition, yet I would not consent to purchase peace at the sacrifice of principle.”

–At Washington the following order was issued to-day from the War Department:

The commanding officer at Hatteras Inlet, N. C., is hereby authorized to accept the services of such loyal North Carolinians–not to exceed one regiment–as in his neighborhood may volunteer to take up arms for the United States, and to designate regular officers to muster them into the service. The recruits will be organized in the first instance into a battalion or regiment according to numbers. The mustering officer will make timely requisition for arms and other necessary supplies. The commanding officer will, on the recommendation of the volunteers, propose such persons as officers as he may deem suitable, to officer the companies that may, if approved, be commissioned by the President.

L. Thomas, Adj.-Gen.

–The anniversary of Washington’s Farewell Address was celebrated by Cassius M. Clay’s Washington Guards. Professor Amasa McCoy, Secretary of the Guards, delivered an Oration on “The London Times on the Rebellion and the war against the National Constitution.”

–The Continental Guard, Forty-eighth regiment N. Y. S. V., under the command of Colonel James H. Perry, left Fort Hamilton this morning for the seat of war. The regiment numbers about one thousand men, well equipped and armed with Enfield rifles. The uniform is the United States regulation. A considerable number of the men were formerly members of the Seventy-first. About sixty recruits, not yet uniformed, were left in charge of the camp, near Fort Hamilton, under Lieutenant Wallace. Colonel Perry, the commandant of the regiment is well-known as a West Point graduate. N. Y. Evening Post, Sept 17.

September 16.–An expedition from Hatteras Inlet, under the command of Lieutenants Maxwell and Eastman, of the steamer Pawnee, visited Ocracoke Inlet and destroyed Fort Oregon, a fine fortification at that place. The expedition was entirely successful.–(Doc. 51.)

–The gunboat Conestoga captured the steamers V. R. Stephenson and Gazelle, on the Cumberland River, Ky. The Stephenson had fifty tons of iron aboard. The Gazelle was without a cargo.–Louisville Journal, September 19.

–Ship Island, near the mouth of the Mississippi River, was evacuated by the rebels and immediately taken possession of by the National forces.–(Doc. 52.)

–Major French, the commanding officer at Key West, published the following important order; its promulgation caused a vast amount of commotion among the secessionists:

Headquarters U. S. Troops

Key West Florida, September 16, 1861

I. Within ten days from this date all male citizens of the Island of Key West who have taken the oath of allegiance will send their names to these head-quarters to be registered.

II. Within thirty days from this date all the citizens of this island are required to take the oath of allegiance to the United States.

III. At the termination of sixty days all citizens of this island who have failed or refused to take the oath of allegiance to the United States will be removed from Key West. This will also apply to their families and the families of these who have left the island to join the Confederate States.

Wm. H. French,

Brevet-Major U. S. A., Commanding.

–The Washington Grays, Forty-seventh regiment N. Y. S. V., commanded by Colonel Henry Moore, left East New York for the seat of war.–N. Y. Times, September 17. [continue reading…]

September 15.–The British brig Mystery, of St. Johns, N. B., was seized by the Surveyor of the port of New York, to-day, under suspicion of having run the blockade at Georgetown, S. C. Letters of instruction and the charter party, found on board, clearly show that there was a plan to land a cargo of ice at that rebel port, but the Consular certificate at Havana proves that the Mystery entered the latter port on the 7th of August, with the identical cargo of ice, and two days afterward cleared for Matanzas, where she received a cargo of sugar, and then sailed for the North, coming into the port of New York.–N. Y. Times, September 17.

–The Second regiment, of Kansas Volunteers, arrived at Leavenworth, from Holla, Mo. –Ohio Statesman, September 21.

–Col. F. P. Blair, Jr., was ordered by the Provost-marshal, at St. Louis, Mo., to report himself under arrest on the general charge of using disrespectful language when alluding to superior officers.–Louisville Journal, Sept. 17.

–About three o’clock this afternoon a force of five hundred rebels attacked a portion of the troops under Col. Geary, stationed about three miles above Harper’s Ferry, on the Potomac. Col. Geary commanded in person, and the fight lasted about three hours. The enemy were driven from every house and breastwork, and no less than seventy-five of them are reported, as killed and wounded. The National loss is one killed and a few slightly wounded. The troops behaved like veterans. Companies B, D, and I, of the Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania regiment, and two companies of the Thirteenth Massachusetts, were engaged in the conflict. During the fight a rebel was seen taking aim at Col. Geary, when the colonel grasped a rifle from a soldier and shot him on the spot.–(Doc. 50.)

–The Thirty-ninth Ohio, Colonel Groesbeck; Third Iowa, Lieutenant-Colonel Scott; Sixteenth Illinois, Colonel Smith, with a force of the Missouri State Militia and Iowa State troops, under Colonels Craynon and Edwards; three hundred regulars and irregular cavalry and six pieces of artillery, under Captain Madison, left St. Joseph and Chillicothe, Mo., in two columns for Lexington, to-day, on their way to reinforce Colonel Mulligan.–N. Y. Herald, September 20.

–This morning the Abbé McMaster, proprietor and editor of the Freeman’s Appeal, a peace organ of New York city, was arrested by the United States Marshal, Mr. Murray, and sent to Fort Lafayette, on a charge of treasonable matter contained in his paper.–N. Y. Herald, September 17.

September 14.–Last night an expedition from the United States steam frigate Colorado, under the command of Lieutenant John H. Russell, cut out the rebel privateer Judah, from under the guns of the forts at Pensacola Navy Yard, and totally destroyed her by fire. The National loss was three killed and fifteen wounded.– (Doc. 49.)

–The Philadelphia Inquirer, of this morning says: “It is understood that the property of Robert Tyler, a traitor, was seized yesterday at Bristol, Pa., by order of the Government of the United States. This property includes real estate and household goods. Robert Tyler first appeared before the public of Pennsylvania about twenty years ago, in the character of a lawyer without clients, and with no very good references as to his past career, he married the daughter of Thomas Cooper, the celebrated actor, having become acquainted with her at Bristol, the residence of her father. He took up his abode at that place during the summer months, and became an active orator in behalf of the Irish cause, in the excitement which preceded the riots of 1844. He won many friends by his oratorical powers. He was afterward appointed Clerk of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, a position worth ten or twelve thousand dollars per annum. While thus in the service of the Government, he lost no opportunity, during the early stages of this rebellion, to uphold the South and denounce the North. His denunciations became so violent, that immediately after the fall of Sumter he was obliged to leave the city, and now holds a subordinate position in the Treasury Department of the so-called Confederate Government at Richmond. His treason has availed him but little.”

–Considerable excitement was created at Kansas City, Mo., to-day, by the appearance of rebel scouts. A company of twenty mounted men was sent over from Kansas City in the morning, who discovered a rebel camp of from two hundred to three hundred men, some six miles distant from the Missouri River. An additional force was detailed in the afternoon, who killed seven of the rebels and took six prisoners, with the same number of horses, and destroyed their barracks. Only one of the Union men was wounded.–N. Y. Herald, September 21.

–A Detachment of Col. Young’s Cavalry, under Captain White, arrested three spies, today, near Port Tobacco, Maryland, and brought them to Washington, D. C. On their persons was found topographic and other information designed for transmission to the enemy.–N. Y. Times, September 18.

September 13.–In Western Virginia the rebels commenced to advance yesterday morning on both pikes toward Elkwater and Cheat Mountain summit. They succeeded in surrounding the fort on the summit and cut the telegraph wire. They continued to advance on Elkwater until within two miles of the National troops, when a few shells from Loomis’s battery dispersed them. Skirmishing was kept up all night, and this morning two regiments were sent to cut their way through to the summit. They succeeded in this expedition, the rebels retreating in all directions.

Two rebel officers who were spying around the camp at Elkwater this morning were surprised by our pickets and shot. The body of one of them was brought into camp, and proved to be that of Col. John A. Washington, of Mount Vernon, Virginia.–(Doc. 48.)

–General Sturgis of the National army with a regiment of infantry, two companies of cavalry, and one of artillery, took possession of St. Joseph’s, Missouri.

–The Second regiment of Delaware Militia, left Wilmington for Cambridge, Maryland.– Baltimore American, September 16.

–A Fight took place at Booneville, Mo., this morning between a party of rebels under Colonel Brown and the Home Guards under Captain Eppstein, which terminated in the victory of the latter. The Home Guards held their intrenchments against the rebels, one thousand strong, who were driven back with a loss of twelve killed and thirty wounded. The Home Guards lost only one killed and four wounded. Among the killed of the rebels were Col. Brown and Capt. Brown.–National Intelligencer, September 17. [continue reading…]

September 12.–Captain Kid’s Cavalry company from New Creek, and a company of Infantry from Fort Pendleton, made a descent upon a camp of secessionists at Petersburg, Hardy County, Virginia. One shot from a twelve-pounder scattered the rebels like chaff. Several of them were killed and wounded and a number of prisoners taken. The camp and all its equipage destroyed. Three six-horse teams, twenty horses, six thousand bushels of corn, and a lot of guns and uniforms were captured. The expedition was entirely successful and gallantly conducted.

–A skirmish occurred at Black River, twelve or fifteen miles southwest of Ironton, Mo., between three companies of Indiana Cavalry under Major Gavitt, and a body of secessionists under the notorious Ben. Talbot, in which five of the rebels were killed and four taken prisoners, and thirty-five horses and a quantity of arms captured. The balance scattered in all directions, and being familiar with the county, eluded pursuit.

–The anniversary of the battle of Baltimore was celebrated in that city to-day with more than ordinary demonstrations on the part of the loyal citizens. The National flag was displayed from the public buildings, hotels, and all loyal newspaper offices, numerous private houses, shipping, etc., and the various camps. Gen. Dix issued an order for firing salutes and dress parades in honor of the day at the various camps at three o’clock. The New York Fifth regiment, Zouaves, made a grand dress parade from their fortified camps on Federal Hill through the city, passing around the different monuments. The Association of Old Defenders made their usual parade with their old flag, which they have not deserted as yet. The only demonstration of a character contrary to the patriotic spirit of the day was in the manner in which a few secession storekeepers arranged their goods to indicate their Southern principles, such as hanging out rolls of red and white flannel, or, as in one instance, displaying three flannel shirts–two red ones with a white one in the centre.–N. Y. Tribune, Sept. 13. [continue reading…]

September 11.–Six rebels from Memphis, Mo., some of whom were identified as having served under Green, were arrested to-day near Salem, Iowa. They had with them a drove of one hundred and eighty cattle, which they said was for Chicago; the men were held as prisoners at Mount Pleasant.–N. Y. Herald, Sept. 13.

–A large party started out at seven o’clock this morning from the vicinity of the Chain Bridge, above Washington, under the command of Colonel Stevens, of the New York Highlanders. It consisted of several detached companies of infantry, a company of cavalry, and Captain Griffin’s battery. As the skirmishers advanced, the enemy’s pickets retired beyond Lewinsville, about seven miles from the Chain Bridge. The troops, having accomplished the object of their mission connected with the reconnoissance of the country, began to retrace their steps, when a large force of rebels, consisting of two regiments of infantry and Colonel Stuart’s regiment of Virginia cavalry, with a battery of four pieces, were seen approaching from the direction of Falls Church, evidently with a view of cutting them off and preventing their return to their camp; and line of battle was formed by the remainder of their forces. The rebel battery then opened with shell, which was replied to from Griffin’s battery. Several rounds were fired on each side, when the National troops ceased firing for about twenty minutes, in order to give the rebels an opportunity, which they would not embrace, of meeting them on the field–the rebels being for the greater part concealed in the woods. The National forces, on resuming operations, brought into action a thirty-two pounder, the shell from which soon silenced the rebel battery. The gun was then directed toward the cavalry, which appeared on the road leading to Fall’s Church, and soon sent them flying, a number reeling from their saddles and falling to the ground. The shells exploded in their midst. The command was then given to withdraw, and the Federal column fell back in good order to Chain Bridge, reaching there late in the afternoon.–(Doc. 42.)

–Thc Legislature of Kentucky adopted a resolution directing the Governor to issue a proclamation ordering the rebel troops encamped in that State to evacuate the soil of Kentucky. The resolution was passed by seventy-one yeas against twenty-six nays. A counter resolution, ordering both Union and rebel troops to leave the soil, was negatived under the rules of order. This action of the Legislature demonstrates the loyalty of Kentucky to the Union, without the slightest shadow of question or contradiction. [continue reading…]

September 10.–President Lincoln, Secretary Cameron, Governor Curtin and suite visited the Pennsylvania regiments to-day. The President introduced the Governor and Mrs. Curtin, Secretary Cameron and General McClellan, who were received with enthusiastic cheering. A hand-shaking then took place, General McClellan cordially greeting officers and men. Each man had something cheering to say to the General. One man said, “General, we are anxious to wipe out Bull Run; hope you will allow us to do it soon?” “Very soon, if the enemy does not run,” was the prompt response.

At last Captain Barker, of the Chicago cavalry corps, composing the escort, appealed to the troops not to crowd the General too hard, or shake his hand too much, as before he slept he had a long way to travel, and much writing to do with the hand they were shaking. He promised if they would fall back the General would say a few words to them. They instantly complied, when the General, removing his hat, spoke as follows:–

Soldiers: We have had our last retreat. We have seen our last defeat. You stand by me, and I will stand by you, and henceforth victory will crown our efforts.

– The Eighth regiment of Maine Volunteers, under the command of Colonel Leo Strickland of Livermore, passed through Boston, Mass., on their way to the seat of war. The regiment musters about eight hundred men, recruited from all parts of Maine. They are uniformed in the regular army uniform, a dark blue coat, light blue pantaloons, and a black felt hat. They marched in excellent order, although they have had but little opportunity to drill, as yet. They were without arms, but will receive them at the camp. – Boston Advertiser, September 11.

– The gunboats Conestoga and Lexington left Cairo and reconnoitred down the Mississippi River to-day. They encountered a battery of sixteen guns at Lucas Bend, on the Missouri shore, and two rebel gunboats. They silenced the rebel batteries and disabled the rebel gunboat Yankee, and would have captured her had she not been supported near Columbus. One of the Conestoga’s men was slightly injured. The loss of the rebels is not known. [continue reading…]

September 9.–The Richmond Examiner of this day says: “A few days ago Col. Albert Rust, commanding one of the regiments from Arkansas, and now stationed at Monterey, proposed to execute a most daring feat, which, but for untoward circumstances, would doubtless have proved successful and stamped him a hero. Calling for volunteers for his enterprise, he accepted the services of eleven hundred men, and with two days’ rations, and stripped of all superfluous clothing and accoutrements, he took a circuitous trail, intending and expecting it to bring him out in the rear of the enemy at Cheat Mountain. His plan was, so soon as they hove in sight of their camps, to fire but one round from their guns and then to close with the foe and to use the bayonet and bowie-knife. General Jackson was to cooperate with him by menacing and attacking the enemy in front so soon as Rust should develop his arrival in the rear by firing. Unfortunately for the success of the enterprise, the trail had not been previously explored, and, instead of carrying Col. Rust to the enemy’s camp, took him six miles behind it, in a direction which rendered it inaccessible, leaving them no other resources but to execute an immediate retreat. So confidently was success counted on that Gen. Jackson drove in the enemy’s pickets, and waited nearly half a day for the signal of Rust’s arrival in the rear to commence the attack in front.

–This morning a serious revolt took place among the New York Rifles, near the camp at Willett’s Point. An entire company, as far as it had been made up, attempted to desert en masse, at the instigation of Captain Cresto, their commander, in order to join another regiment in New York. They were stopped by a special patrol en route, and ordered to return to the camp, and on refusing they were fired upon by the patrol. Two men were killed on the spot and five were severely wounded. Captain Oresto and several of the men were arrested, and the affair was investigated.–N. Y. Herald, September 11.

–In the Senate of Kentucky, Mr. Whitaker introduced a series of resolutions declaring that the peace and neutrality of the State had been wantonly violated by the so-called Southern Confederacy, and calling upon the people to rise and repel the lawless invaders. Governor Magoffin transmitted to the Senate despatches from the confederate General Polk, in which he proposed that the national and “confederate” forces should be simultaneously withdrawn from Kentucky, and that both parties stipulate to observe the neutrality of the State.–(Doc. 40.) [continue reading…]

September 8.–Yesterday, at Hatteras Inlet, N. C., the schooners Mary Ward, of Edenton, N. C., Daniel Hayman, Captain; the Ocean Wave, of Washington, N. C., Adam Warren, Captain; the Susan Jane, of Plymouth, N. C., David Ireland, Captain, all from the Island of St. Martin, were taken prizes. The Ward and the Wave came square into the inlet, and were boarded by Lieut. Crosby, to whom the captains unsuspectingly committed themselves as being in the illegal trade, and by whom they were taken prisoners and their vessels secured as prizes. They were loaded with salt and molasses. The Susan Jane was seen in the offing standing off and on suspiciously. Lieut. Crosby took the Fanny, with Col. Hawkins on beard, and went out of the inlet to watch her movements. Apparently suspecting that something was out of joint, she stood off, when the Fanny pursued and gave her a shot at long range which did not have the effect to bring her to. At the suggestion of Colonel Hawkins, a secession flag was extemporized and let fly from the Fanny, in answer to which the schooner ran up the Palmetto flag of South Carolina, and at the same time tacked and came round. Soon after, however, seeming to smell a rat, she altered her course and stood off again, and tried to haul down her flag, but did not succeed, on account of its getting tangled. Perceiving that she was making off, Lieutenant Crosby let her have a shot across her bow, whereat she came round and made directly for the Fanny. On coming up, Lieutenant Crosby went aboard and directed the captain to follow the Fanny in. While on their way, Lieutenant Crosby had the following conversation with Captain Ireland: “Is that your flag?” asked Lieutenant C. “Yes, that is the flag I live, fight, and hope to die under,” replied the captain, and he added, “we have cheated the Yankees this time.” “I have to inform you,” said Lieutenant Crosby, “that on the 28th day of August the American fleet made its appearance off this place and commenced to bombard Forts Hatteras and Clark, while a land force landed; that Fort Clark was silenced that day; that on the day following Fort Hatteras was bombarded and captured, with more than seven hundred prisoners; that both forts are now occupied by Federal troops; that I am a United States officer, you my prisoner, and your ship a prize. It is all right, is it not, captain?” The captain instantly collapsed, and took to hard drink.

To-day the Hamet Ryan, Captain Wm. Nixon, appeared off the inlet, and finally stood in. Lieutenant Crosby, with the Fanny, went out, and took her in tow. She proved to be from Halifax, bound to Washington, N. C., with an assorted cargo, previously purchased in New York, consisting of one hundred and forty dozen army brogans, hats, caps, army supplies, and camp and garrison tools, for the rebels. Important papers were found on board, disclosing the extent to which this sort of trade is carried on under the English flag, and implicating certain leading New York houses in it.–(Doc. 39 ½.) [continue reading…]

September 7.–The Grand Jury of Westchester County, N. Y., in session at White Plains, presented to the Judge of the Circuit Court, the Yonkers Herald, the Highland Democrat, the Eastern State Journal of that county, and the Staats Zeitung and the National Zeitung of New York City, as disseminators of doctrines, which, in the existing state of things, tend to give aid and comfort to the enemies of the Government, and to prevent a vigorous prosecution of the war by which alone the supremacy of the Government is to be maintained, and National peace and prosperity again witnessed in the land. And they called upon the District Attorney of that county to prosecute the editors and proprietors of these journals if, after public notice, they should continue in their evil courses; and they also requested that a copy of the presentment be forwarded to Mr. E. D. Smith, the United States District Attorney in New York, that he might commence proceedings against the two German papers presented published there, and further requested that a stop might be put to the circulation of these papers in Westchester County.– N. Y. Commercial, September 9.

–Generals Pillow and Polk occupied Columbus, Kentucky, with seven thousand rebels. Jeff. Thompson was in Missouri, directly opposite, with the balance of Pillow’s forces. A reinforcement of Federal troops were sent today to Paducah, and another regiment follows immediately.–Baltimore American, Sept. 9.

–The Knoxville (Tenn.) Whig of to-day contains the following from Parson Brownlow, designed to correct some erroneous notions that prevail in regard to his position on the war question.

He says he entertains the same opinions he always has of “the heresy of secession and the leading men who brought about a dissolution of the Union, and of the motives that prompted them.” He “can never sanction the one nor confide in the other.” He wishes it understood, however, that, inasmuch as he is not a “candidate for martyrdom, or imprisonment” during the war, and has been overpowered by the action of the State at the ballot-box, and by the strong arm of the military, he has determined to “moderate in his tone,” to “cease the course of warfare” he has waged, and to “yield to the necessity upon us–a necessity none of us can avert.” After pledging himself to devote more attention hereafter to giving his readers the current news than abusing the South, he says: “I have fought, editorially, as long as I could accomplish any thing by lighting, and in my retirement to a position of neutrality, I carry with me my unchanged principles, and shall cherish them to my latest hours of life.” He further adds: [continue reading…]

Sept. 6.–To-day the National Guard at Conrad’s Ferry, on the Potomac, discerned a body of rebels at work across the river, which, on inspection with glasses, proved to be the erection of a two-gun battery. Word was sent to General Stone’s head-quarters, and a section of a battery was soon provided. The rebels discharged two shells without effect, which were responded to with spherical-case shot, causing a splendid specimen of racing by the rebels. The distance between the two batteries was not less than three-quarters of a mile.–National Intelligencer, Sept. 12.

–Tins morning at eleven o’clock, General Grant, with two regiments of infantry, one company of light artillery, and two gunboats, took possession of Paducah, Kentucky. He found secession flags flying in different parts of the city, in expectation of greeting the arrival of the Southern army, which was reported three thousand eight hundred strong, sixteen miles distant. The loyal citizens tore down the secession flags on the arrival of the national troops.

General Grant took possession of the telegraph office, railroad depot, and the marine hospital, and issued the following proclamation:

I have come among you not as an enemy, but as your fellow-citizen. Not to maltreat or annoy you, but to respect and enforce the rights of all loyal citizens. An enemy, in rebellion against our common Government, has taken possession of, and planted its guns on the soil of Kentucky, and fired upon you. Columbus and Hickman are in his hands. He is moving upon your city. I am here to defend you against this enemy, to assist the authority and sovereignty of your Government. I have nothing to do with opinions, and shall deal only with armed rebellion and its aiders and abettors. You can pursue your usual avocations without fear. The strong arm of the Government is here to protect its friends and punish its enemies. Whenever it is manifest that you are able to defend yourselves and maintain the authority of the Government and protest the rights of loyal citizens I shall withdraw the forces under my command.

U. S. Grant,
Brig.-Gen. Commanding.
–(Doc. 31.)

–Several families of Tennessee exiles arrived at Cincinnati, Ohio, in farm wagons today. They were driven from Jefferson County, Tennessee, on account of their Union sentiments, some weeks since.–Louisville Journal, Sept. 9. [continue reading…]

Sept. 5.–The Charleston Mercury of this day says: Under the Fabian policy, our army has remained stationary for the last six weeks, a prey to ennui and discomfort, discontent and disease, while the capitol at Washington could almost be seen from the generals’ tents. How long this policy of “masterly inactivity ” would have continued, God only knows. It was gravely announced in a Richmond paper, that they were intrepidly waiting for the enemy to come on again. The enemy, however, very wisely determined that, as they were left the range of the whole continent to attack, Bull Run was not the choicest place for their future operations. They accordingly make a descent on the coast of North Carolina. Perhaps our Government was astonished that they did not return to Bull Run; but seeing that such expectations were not in accordance with Yankee policy, they see the necessity of advancing on Washington. It is clear that our Yankee enemies, always pushing us into our best position, intend to force us into the alternative of a campaign in Maryland, or the devastation of our sea-coast. The Carolinas, Georgia and Florida, are to be defended in Maryland. It is there, by a firm and aggressive war, that the United States must, on our part, be forced to defend themselves.

–Two companies of Colonel Berdan’s sharpshooters took their departure from Weehawken, N. J., for the seat of war. They are the first of the regiment that have gone into actual service. The uniform of the regiment is peculiarly appropriate for their position as marksmen, consisting of green frock coats, gray pantaloon and green caps. The dress is made to accord with the colors of nature as much as possible and is intended to be worn in summer. In winter the uniform will consist entirely of gray pattern.–N. Y. World, Sept. 6.

–The Twentieth regiment of Massachusetts Volunteers, under the command of Colonel William Raymond Lee, passed through New York on its way to the seat of war. The regimen left Readville, Mass., yesterday. It numbers seven hundred and fifty men, and has been mainly raised in Springfield and Wareham The men are strong, hardy, and intelligent looking. They are armed with Enfield rifles and are uniformed according to the army regulation. They have with them twenty-five baggage wagons, two hospital wagons, five ambulances, and one hundred and twenty horses A company of sharp-shooters from Massachusetts, Capt. Sanders, with one hundred men, joined the regiment at New York. [continue reading…]

September 4.–Leslie Coombs, of Kentucky, in a letter to the chairman of the Syracuse (N. Y.) Conventions, held this language: “These peace meetings, with us, and, I presume, everywhere, arc mere soft words for treason, and we shall so treat them. I am gratified to find you still at your post, and have not caught the Bull Run panic, which has done some mischief in Kentucky. I am on guard all the time, and ready for action. If the rebels dare make a war upon us, we will sweep them clear, and that rapidly. We are wide awake, and defy their malice as much as we scorn their blustering. ‘The Union, the Constitution, and the enforcement of the laws,’ must be kept aloft everywhere, and all mere party platforms trampled under foot.”

–Leonidas Polk, general in the Confederate Army, issued the following proclamation at Columbus, Ky., this day: “The Federal Government having, in defiance of the wishes of the people of Kentucky, disregarded their neutrality by establishing camp depots of armies, and by organizing military companies within her territory, and by constructing military works on the Missouri shore, immediately opposite and commanding Columbus, evidently intended to cover the landing of troops for the seizure of that town, it has become a military necessity, for the defence of the territory of the Confederate States, that the Confederates occupy Columbus in advance. The major-general commanding has, therefore, not felt himself at liberty to risk the loss of so important a position, but has decided to occupy it in pursuance of this decision. He has thrown sufficient force into the town, and ordered to fortify it. It is gratifying to know that the presence of his troops is acceptable to the people of Columbus, and on this occasion he assures them that every precaution shall be taken to insure their quiet, protection to their property, with personal and corporate rights.”

–Colonel John Fitzroy De Courcy, an English officer of much distinction, tendered his services to the National Government, and the offer was accepted. Colonel De Courcy commanded a Turkish regiment during the Crimean Var.–Louisville Journal, September 11.

–At Portland, Me., Cyrus F. Sargent and Octavius F. Hill, of Yarmouth, were [continue reading…]

September 3.–The Pensacola (Fla.) Observer gives the particulars of the burning of the dry-dock there as follows:

The dry-dock, originally intended to have been sunk in the channel to obstruct the passage of war steamers into our harbor, but which, from necessity, not choice, was sunk in the bay, about midway between Pickens and the yard, was burned to the water’s edge last night. Who the perpetrators of this act were, is solely a question of speculation, as we go to press, though the Yankees have the general credit of it. Upon this point, however, we soon will be fully enlightened, but upon the point that we have lost over half a million of dollars by the operation our mind is perfectly clear and settled.

–Charles Henry Foster, Union member of Congress from North Carolina, arrived at Philadelphia, Pa., to-day, en route for Washington, to confer with the administration upon affairs connected with his State. Rebel scouts lay in wait for him in Virginia, whose vigilance he successfully eluded.–N. Y. Times, Sept. 4.

–The President of the United States made the following appointments of Brigadier-Generals : Captain George C. Meade, of the Topographical Engineers; Major Lawrence P. Graham, of the Dragoons, a Virginian by birth, and breveted for gallantry in Mexico; Colonel Abercrombie; Colonel Biddle; Colonel Duryea; Colonel Casey, who is lieutenant-colonel by brevet in the regular army; Hon. William A. Richardson, of Illinois; Eleazer A. Paine, of Illinois; Justus McKinstry, assistant quartermaster of the Army; O. O. Howard, of Maine; Charles D. Jameson, of Maine; A. McD. McCook, of Ohio; Ebenezer Dumont, of Indiana; Robert H. Milroy, of Indiana; Lewis Wallace, of Indiana.–Phila. Inquirer, September 4.

–This morning, Captain Julius L. Ellis, of the Seventy-first regiment, N. Y. S. M., and son of Dr. Samuel C. Ellis, died at his father’s residence, in Second Avenue, New York City, of a wound received when leading his company at the battle of Stone Bridge. It is a significant fact that five of Dr. Ellis’s sons fought under the Stare and Stripes at Stone Bridge. [continue reading…]