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March 25th. This morning, at five thirty, heard heavy firing up the river in the direction of Vicksburg, which continued until six A. M., at which time we got under way and steamed up the river, beat to quarters, and shelled the rebel earthworks at Warrenton. The rebels returned our fire with rifled field pieces and musketry. At seven fifteen A. M., passed the batteries and discovered ahead the U. S. ram Switzerland and Lancaster, both having just passed the batteries at Vicksburg. The former vessel received a shot through one of her boilers, and the latter sunk from injuries received in the action. Three of the Switzerland’s men were very badly scalded; the crew of the Lancaster were all saved. At seven thirty A. M. brought ship to anchor above Warrenton. This afternoon Mr. Gabaudan, the Admiral’s Secretary, returned.