The papers say “Captain Hollins of the navy has broken the blockade at New Orleans, sunk the “Vincennes,” and captured a sloop, without the least damage to himself and men.”—Diary of a Southern Refugee, Judith White McGuire.

October 16.—We had a pleasant evening. While N. read the papers we were knitting for the soldiers. An account is given of some small successes. Our men, near Pensacola, have broken up the camp of “Billy Wilson’s Zouaves,” of which we have heard so much; and Captain Hollins of the navy has broken the blockade at New Orleans, sunk the “Vincennes,” and captured a sloop, without the least damage to himself and men. Rosecranz has retreated before our men at Big Sewell Mountain. For these things we desire to be truly grateful, without rejoicing in the misfortunes of our enemies, except as they tend to the welfare of our invaded and abused country.