July 26th.–Isabella went with me to the bulletin-board. Mrs. D. (with the white linen as usual pasted on her chin) asked me to read aloud what was there written. As I slowly read on, I heard a suppressed giggle from Isabella. I know her way of laughing at everything, and tried to enunciate more distinctly–to read more slowly, and louder, with more precision. As I finished and turned round, I found myself closely packed in by a crowd of Confederate soldiers eager to hear the news. They took off their caps, thanked me for reading all that was on the boards, and made way for me, cap in hand, as I hastily returned to the carriage, which was waiting for us. Isabella proposed, “Call out to them to give three cheers for Jeff Davis and his generals.” “You forget, my child, that we are on our way to a funeral.”

Found my new house already open hospitably to all comers. My husband had arrived. He was seated at a pine table, on which someone had put a coarse, red table-cover, and by the light of one tallow candle was affably entertaining Edward Barnwell, Isaac Hayne, and Uncle Hamilton. He had given them no tea, however. After I had remedied that oversight, we adjourned to the moonlighted piazza. By tallow-candle-light and the light of the moon, we made out that wonderful smile of Teddy’s, which identifies him as Gerald Grey.

We have laughed so at broken hearts–the broken hearts of the foolish love stories. But Buck, now, is breaking her heart for her brother Willie. Hearts do break in silence, without a word or a sigh. Mrs. Means and Mary Barnwell made no moan–simply turned their faces to the wall and died. How many more that we know nothing of!

When I remember all the true-hearted, the light-hearted, the gay and gallant boys who have come laughing, singing, and dancing in my way in the three years now past; how I have looked into their brave young eyes and helped them as I could in every way and then saw them no more forever; how they lie stark and cold, dead upon the battle-field, or moldering away in hospitals or prisons, which is worse–I think if I consider the long array of those bright youths and loyal men who have gone to their death almost before my very eyes, my heart might break, too. Is anything worth it–this fearful sacrifice, this awful penalty we pay for war?

Allen G. says Johnston was a failure. Now he will wait and see what Hood can do before he pronounces judgment on him. He liked his address to his army. It was grand and inspiring, but every one knows a general has not time to write these things himself. Mr. Kelly, from New Orleans, says Dick Taylor and Kirby Smith have quarreled. One would think we had a big enough quarrel on hand for one while already. The Yankees are enough and to spare. General Lovell says, “Joe Brown, with his Georgians at his back, who importuned our government to remove Joe Johnston, they are scared now, and wish they had not.”

In our democratic Republic, if one rises to be its head, whomever he displeases takes a Turkish revenge and defiles the tombs of his father and mother; hints that his father was a horse-thief and his mother no better than she should be; his sisters barmaids and worse, his brothers Yankee turncoats and traitors. All this is hurled at Lincoln or Jeff Davis indiscriminately.

JULY 26TH–Many amusing scenes occur daily between the Chief of the Bureau and applicants for passports. Those not included specially in the Secretary’s instructions, are referred to the Chief of the Bureau; .and Col. Bledsoe cannot bear importunity. Sometimes he becomes so very boisterous that the poor applicants are frightened out of the office.

–The Eighth and Seventy-first Regiments N. Y. S. M., returned to New York this afternoon, and met with an enthusiastic reception. Broadway was thronged, and vociferous cheers greeted them at every crossing.–N. Y. Times, July 27.

–In the Mississippi Legislature Mr. Harrison presented a series of resolutions, expressing the gratitude of the Senate of that State in the late brilliant achievement by the Confederate arms on the battle-field at Bull Run, which being amended by Mr. Drane, were adopted.– (Doc. 126.)

–A fight occurred at Lane’s Prairie, fifteen miles from Rolla, Mo., between a party of sixty-five rebels, and fifteen Home Guards from Rolla. The Guards were surrounded, but they made a determined stand, and after a few volleys dispersed the rebels, killing their first lieutenant and mortally wounding three others. One lieutenant and two privates on the National side were slightly wounded.–N. Y. Times, July 30.

–The Fourth Regiment of New Jersey Militia, and the First Regiment of Rhode Island, left Washington on their return from service.– Phila. Press, July 27.

–Since the disaster to the national arms on Sunday last at Bull Run, the State of Pennsylvania has thrown forward, to meet the requirements of the National Government, ten full regiments of infantry. On Sunday night, July 21st, the Governor was urgently requested to push on his forces, and his response within the ensuing four days was a magnificent army of nearly 11,000 picked men, thoroughly uniformed and furnished, and having most of them been regularly drilled in camps of instruction for two months.

Great pains have been bestowed by the State authorities upon this fine army. It has been organized under the supervision of George A. McCall, long an officer in the regular army, through all the grades of which he has passed with distinction to the rank he now holds in it of Brigadier-general. The State has also an artillery regiment and a regiment of twelve hundred cavalry nearly ready for service, both of which have been accepted by the Secretary of War. To the foresight and wise energy of Governor Curtin is chiefly owing the ability of the State to contribute so promptly and efficiently to the national safety in the present emergency.–Philadelphia Pres, July 27.

–To-day, in Virginia, Col. McLeod Murphy captured three rebels in uniform, while out scouting on his own account. He saw three of them getting water, while their arms were leaning against a tree but a few feet off. Col. Murphy rode up, and, without firing his revolver, collared the crowd and brought them into camp.–N. Y. World, July 27.

–The Second Regiment of Georgia volunteers from Savannah, passed through Charleston, S. C., on their way to Virginia.–Charleston Mercury, July 27.

–Brevet Second Lieut. Clarence Derrick, of the Engineer Corps, Brevet Second Lieut. Jas. P. Parker, Fourth Infantry, and Brevet Second Lieut. Frank A. Reynolds, having resigned just after graduating from West Point a few weeks since, were dismissed from the service of the United States.–Philadelphia Inquirer, July 27.

James H. Otey, Bishop of Tennessee, issued a pastoral letter to the clergy of the Protestant Episcopal Church in his diocese, promulgating a prayer and service to be used on the Sunday preceding the day of thanksgiving fixed by the “Confederate Congress,” and suggesting to the clergy that in the prayer for the President of the United States, and in the prayer for Congress also, the words “United States” be omitted, and the words “Confederate States” be substituted in both places.–(Doc. 127.)

–A Correspondent at Fortress Monroe, Va., in a letter of this date, says: It became apparent, early last evening, that the rebels meditated an attack on Hampton. Gen. Butler determined to abandon the town in case of a formidable advance, and at seven o’clock the order was given for families and goods to be removed. Within one hour, orders were also issued to burn the town rather than have it fall into the hands of the enemy. The General well understands that the possession of Hampton by the rebels will be of no particular importance.

A stampede of the colored population took place all night, and to-day the road has been lined with refugees to the fortress, and army wagons, and carts bringing in goods from Hampton. The road has presented a most remarkable appearance; nearly 1,000 contraband men, women, and children must have come in during the last twenty-four hours.–N. Y. Times, Aug. 1.

July 26, 1861

• George McClellan appointed commander, Army of the Potomac, replacing Irvin McDowell. Some sources give the date as July 27, the day he received the orders.

A Chronological History of the Civil War in America¹

• Union troops drove out the rebels and occupied Forsyth, Mo.

1. A Chronological History of the Civil War in America by Richard Swainson Fisher, New York, Johnson and Ward, 1863

July 25th. Nearly all the men are back again to-night, and military duty is to be resumed to-morrow, but our three months have expired, and we are ordered back to New York to be mustered out of service. The President has called for three hundred thousand men to serve for three years, or the war. The country is just beginning to realize the magnitude of the undertaking, and the first thing it is going to do is to organize a regular army, which will last at least for three years. Our views of war are somewhat modified by the past three months’ experience, but I am determined to return, and under more favorable conditions, try to find that exaltation and glory that I have always associated with arms.

We shall go home and refit for a long period, organize and discipline an army, and when officers and men have learned to adjust themselves to their new positions, and know each other and their duties thoroughly, then commence afresh, and go on to victory, or sustain defeat with dignity. The cause is just as great to-day as it was the day we left New York, and, while we have been temporarily overthrown, there is no cause for despondency. We shall as certainly win in the end, as though we had never seen, or heard, of the disastrous battle of Bull Run.

For myself, I have served in the ranks for the last time; and shall go home and apply at once for a commission in some of the regiments now forming to serve for three years or the war, which will be more to my taste than serving in the ranks.

JULY 25th.—Bartow’s body has arrived, and lies in state at the Capitol. Among the chief mourners was his young friend Barton, who loved him as a son loves his father. From Lamar I learned some interesting particulars of the battle. He said when Bartow’s horse was killed, he, Lamar, was sent to another part of the field for another, and also to order up certain regiments, Bartow then being in command of a brigade. Lamar galloped through a hot cross-fire to the regiments and delivered the order, but got no horse. He galloped back, however, through the terrible fire, with the intention of giving his own horse to Bartow, if none other could be had. On his return he encountered Col. Jones, of the 4th Alabama, wounded, his arms being around the necks of two friends, who were endeavoring to support him in a standing attitude. One of these called to Lamar, and asked for his horse, hoping that Col. Jones might be able to ride (his thigh-bone was terribly shattered), and thus get off the field. Lamar paused, and promised as soon as he could report to Bartow he would return with that or another horse. Col. Jones thanked him kindly, but cautioned him against any neglect of Bartow’s orders, saying he probably could not ride. Lamar promised to return immediately; and putting spurs to his noble steed, started off in a gallop. He had not gone fifty yards before his horse fell, throwing him over his head. He saw that the noble animal had been pierced by as many as eight balls, from a single volley. He paused a moment and turned away, when the poor horse endeavored to rise and follow, but could not. He returned and patted the groaning and tearful steed on his neck; and, while doing this, five more balls struck him, and he died instantly. Lamar then proceeded on foot through a storm of bullets, and, untouched, rejoined Bartow in time to witness his fall.

Our prisons are filled with Yankees, and Brig.-Gen. Winder has employment. There is a great pressure for passports to visit the battle-field. At my suggestion, all physicians taking amputating instruments, and relatives of the wounded and slain, have been permitted by the Secretary to go thither.

July 25.–Last night I went in to Columbus to bid good-bye to the boys; on the road met Lucy, Laura, and Mother Webb; advised them to return. After we were at home (Platt’s), Lucy showed more emotion at my departure than she has hitherto exhibited. She wanted to spend my last night with me in Camp Chase. I took her out. We passed a happy evening going around among the men gathered in picturesque groups, cooking rations for three days at the camp fires. Early in the morning, as she was anxious Mother Webb should see the camp before I left, I sent her in by a hack to return with Mother Webb which she did, and they saw us leave the camp.

I marched in with the men afoot; a gallant show they made as they marched up High Street to the depot. Lucy and Mother Webb remained several hours until we left. I saw them watching me as I stood on the platform at the rear of the last car as long as they could see me. Their eyes swam. I kept my emotion under control enough not to melt into tears.–A pleasant ride to Bellaire; staid in the cars all night.

Dear Girls: Your full, interesting letters have come in and given great relief. G’s of today is certainly altogether more cheerful in tone than Eliza’s of Tuesday, and very naturally. We are beginning to “look up “ a little, too. Your rebuff by Miss Dix has been the subject of great indignation, but we all devoutly hope you will not mind it in the least. . . . Whatever you do, go in and win. Outflank the Dix by any and every means in your power, remembering that prison visitors and hospital visitors and people who really desire to do good, have taken no notice of obstacles except to vanquish them, and as soon as one avenue was closed have turned with perfect persistence to another. We shall be very much disappointed if you do not establish some sort of relations with the hospitals, at least enough to give you free access, and to make a reliable channel for such things as we can send. You ought certainly to get those boxes to-day if not sooner. . . All your details are very interesting. Pray, send any that you collect, and make Joe write out or dictate to one of you a connected story of what he saw and did from the time of the advance up to the Monday morning when he came in. It will be invaluable, and ought to be done while it is fresh. Your “mémoires pour servir” may immortalize you yet.. .. We have seen only a few people the last day or two, Mr. Denny, F. Bond, and Col. Perkins. All cheerful, hopeful and undaunted, say we can have ten men to every one lost now; that there is settled determination to use every resource to the uttermost. Uncle E. says, setting his teeth, “to the last drop of my blood!” Abby desponds. Thinks Scott to blame, that his tide of fortune is turning, or that he is childish, or, at best, that he let the cabinet have its way this time for the sake of saying, “I told you so.” We begin to grin now when Abby begins to croak, but there is certainly something in what she says. Don’t keep drumming about our going away. We should have been crazy if we had been in suspense in some small country place the last week or two. When things subside, and look nearly settled for the present, we will take our own time and go. . . Frank Goddard is in the rebel army at Sewall’s Point. “Hopes it will make no difference in our pleasant relations.” Hm!!! perhaps it won’t.

Why don’t you come home? Now’s your chance, if at all. The rebel army before Washington will melt away like a cloud and come down again suddenly in Kentucky, Missouri, Jeff knows where, where we are weak and unexpecting, and leave us sitting like fools behind our laborious entrenchments that nobody means to take. . . . How can you doubt Fremont? There has been no positive charge against him from any respectable source, only malevolent rumors, filling the air, coming no doubt from the Blairs and other malignant personal enemies who hate him, because they are slave-holders and he is just now the apostle of liberation. I announce my adhesion still and my painful anxiety that he should retrieve himself in Missouri against all the heavy odds of fortune. . . . It is pitiful to see how great and general a defection from him has grown out of absolutely nothing (so far) of any authority. . . . Take some measures to make Frank Bacon let his beard grow; tell him to go to Jericho with his “Victor Emmanuel.” He is in the late fashion, by the bye; so much the worse. Why should a man who can look like a knight of the table of the blameless King voluntarily look like a Lynn shoemaker?

“Yet, oh fair maid, thy mirth refrain,

Thy hand is on a lion’s mane.”

Quote me to him; who’s afraid? . . . Goodbye. I hope the highly accommodating Providence which directs, or rather acquiesces in all G.’s movements, will afford you both every facility for whatever you want to do. . . .

THURSDAY 25

Tho not engaged in the patent office officialy, my time has been occupied from day to day the past week in looking about and visiting the Regts encamped around the City. This evening, myself and Julia & H N Jr went over to the RI Camp and visited the officers, Col Burnside, Capt Dexter and Surgeon Genl Wheaton. The 1st Regt left this evening for Home. From there we went to the Old Capitol and visited the Secession prisoners (over one hundred). Col Boone and many others were interesting men.

______

The three diary manuscript volumes, Washington during the Civil War: The Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft, 1861-1865, are available online at The Library of   Congress.

Washington July 25 1861

My dear Wife

I met a few moments ago, Col Henry Van Rentzelear¹ one of Genl Scotts aids who says he carried in my name and that of Rufus King² as appointments for Brigadiers. So that matter is a fixed fact. I was requested not to resign and [illegible] till the military bills are carried through the House. You will have seen the mean announcement made by the Tribune the thing of Fitz Henry Warren³ who has bitterly and boastfully opposed my promotion. I have said and done little or nothing for the responsibilities of such places are so great they should not be sought after.

It comes directly from the President on the recommendation of General Scott and I feel the more proud of the appointment for that reason. It is of no use for me to consider the advantage or disadvantage of thus going into another duties I am called and must go. I will draw less pay than I would if I remain in Congress and at least 3000 $ less than I would if I retained both my place in Congress and my position as Colonel. But to refuse the military appointment would never do, so I would not raise the question as to whether one or the other would be most profitable.

I am to be a Brigadier nolens volens and will resign my seat in Congress as soon as I have done all I can to secure proper military bills through Congress. I dine with General Scott to day and hope to get his views of matters very fully.

The terrible disorganization of the army caused by the foolish stampede of Sunday evening⁴ is being gradually overcome but things are not safe and an attack on the city to-day would be dangerous to the country. [continue reading…]

Arkansas True Democrat [Little Rock],
July 25, 1861

From our own Correspondent.

Richmond, July 9^th, 1861.

Notwithstanding the oppressively warm weather, the city of Richmond presents a stirring and lively appearance. There is great activity in the various departments of the newly formed government, particularly those of the war and navy, and their subordinate branches, the quartermaster’s and commissary’s departments. There are several large encampments in the purlieus of the city, where fresh troops are drilled and made acquainted with the rotine of a soldier’s life. The drill masters of the raw recruits are generally the cadets of the State Military Academy at Lexington, who, I understand, receive $30 a month for their services. Some of these cadets are mere boys, yet their education admirably fits them for the office of instructors of tactics. Recently a company of about 100 stalwart mountaineers passed my window under charge of a lad of about fourteen years old–there were some in the ranks old enough to be his grand-father, and yet the men obeyed him and seemed to improve vastly under his instruction. He was tied to a sword almost as long as himself, and with a penny-trumpet voice gave out the word of command with all the stern dignity of a veteran. That boy is the son of a lieutenant of the Public Guard, and has a fine company of juveniles under his command, whom he calls the Junior Home Guard, for the protection of the city. He will be a general some of these days. . . .

Quod.

Arkansas True Democrat [Little Rock],
July 25, 1861

We see from the subscription list that Mrs. Elizabeth R. Wright, of this city, has subscribed the liberal amount of four hundred bales of cotton to the confederate loan. Mrs. Wright represents one of Arkansas’ oldest and noblest families; one that has ever stood high among the honored and cherished of the State, and its old honor and renown will surely gather a yet a fairer lustre from the unselfish devotion of its patriotic daughter.

Thus it is with the glorious women of the South. Fearlessly, gloriously they have offered themselves to their country. The laughing maiden, the busy mother and the mourning widow have vied in their efforts to advance our cause. Day by day, and night by night, they have toiled at the work until an army of heroes, clothed by beauty, grace and worth, stand forth, as did Achilles on the Trojan plain, invincible. And throughout our land the spirit of the Switzer’s wife is heard crying–

“We shall not be oppressed,
No we must rise upon our own southern sod,
And man must arm and woman call on God.”

Daily Times
Leavenworth, Ks
July 25, 1861

Men from Fort Scott say they heard the firing of Sigel’s cannon, at the battle of Carthage, a distance of thirty-five miles.

The French Zouaves have been mustered into the U. S. service at the Fort. They are for the most part composed of men who have seen active service in the French army, many of them having belonged to the far-famed Zouaves. Capt. Block, if we are correctly informed, served with the Zouaves in Algiers, under the great Pellessier. He is a fine officer, a brave man, and a true soldier.

July 25th.–The unfortunate General Patterson, who could not keep Johnston from getting away from Winchester, is to be dismissed the service–honourably, of course–that is, he is to be punished because his men would insist on going home in face of the enemy, as soon as their three months were up, and that time happened to arrive just as it would be desirable to operate against the Confederates. The latter have lost their chance. The Senate, the House of Representatives, the Cabinet, the President, are all at their ease once more, and feel secure in Washington. Up to this moment the Confederates could have taken it with very little trouble. Maryland could have been roused to arms, and Baltimore would have declared for them. The triumph of the non-aggressionists, at the head of whom is Mr. Davis, in resisting the demands of the party which urges an actual invasion of the North as the best way of obtaining peace, may prove to be very disastrous. Final material results must have justified the occupation of Washington.

I dined at the Legation, where were Mr. Sumner and some English visitors desirous of going South. Lord Lyons gives no encouragement to these adventurous persons.

–In the Missouri State Convention, in session at Jefferson City, this morning, Mr. Broadhead, from the Committee of seven, presented the report of the Committee. The report alludes at length to the present unparalleled condition of things, the reckless course of the recent Government, and flight of the Governor and other State officers from the Capital. It declares the offices of Governor, Lieutenant-Governor, and Secretary of State vacant, and provides that their vacancies shall be filled by the Convention, the officers so appointed to hold their positions till August, 1862, at which time it provides for a special election by the people. It repeals the ninth section of the sixth article of the Constitution, and provides that the Supreme Court of the State shall consist of seven members; and that four members, in addition to the three now comprising the Court, shall be appointed by the Governor chosen by this Convention to hold office till 1862, when the people will decide whether the change shall be permanent. It abolishes the State Legislature, and ordains that in case before the 1st of August, 1862, the Governor chosen by this Convention shall consider that the public exigencies demand, he shall order a special election for members of the State Legislature. It recommends the passage of an ordinance repealing the following bills, passed by the Legislature, in secret session, in May last: The military fund bill, the bill to suspend the distribution of the school fund, and the bill for cultivating friendly relations with the Indian tribes. It repeals the bill authorizing the appointment of one Major of the Missouri Militia, and revives the militia law of 1859.

A resolution was also passed that a Committee of seven be appointed by the President to prepare an address to the people of the State of Missouri.–Missouri Republican, July 26.

–A meeting of the Charleston Presbytery was held at Columbia, S. C., at which a preamble and resolutions were unanimously adopted, dissolving the ecclesiastical relations existing between that Presbytery and the Presbyterian Church of the United States, and declaring the necessity of an independent organization of churches in the South.–(Doc. 118.)

–Is general orders of this date, General Rosecrans assumed command of the “Army of Occupation of Western Virginia,” lately commanded by General McClellan.–(Doc. 119.)

–General Cox occupied Charleston on the Kanawha, the rebels retreating and burning the bridges. A rebel steamer was abandoned and burned. It is supposed the rebels will be met by Colonel Rosecrans’ column, sent out some days ago to intercept their retreat.–N. Y. Times, July 21.–(Doc. 119 ½.)

–In the Senate of the United States, Andrew Johnson, of Tennessee, moved a resolution, stating that the present civil war was forced on the country by disunionists in the Southern States, who are now in rebellion against the Constitutional Government; that in this emergency Congress, banishing all passion and resentment, will only recollect its duty to the whole country, and that the war was not waged with any spirit of oppression or subjugation, or any purpose of overthrowing the institutions of the States, but to maintain and defend the supremacy of the Constitution and laws, and as soon as this is accomplished, the war ought to cease.

Mr. Polk, of Missouri, moved to amend the resolution so as to read “that the present civil war has been forced on the country by the disunionists in the Northern and Southern States,” and to strike out what is said about being in arms against the Government. The amendment was disagreed to by yeas four, nays thirty-three.

Mr. Breckinridge, of Kentucky, and others spoke on the resolution, which was finally carried by yeas thirty, nays five.–(Doc. 120.)

–A General order was issued from the War Department at Washington, defining the extent of the new command of General McClellan.– (Doc. 121.)

–A Letter from Pensacola, Florida, gives what purports to be a digest of Admiral Milne’s Report to the British Government upon the United States blockade of rebel ports.–(Doc. 122.)

–General McClellan passed through Philadelphia, on his way to Washington, to take command of the Army of the Potomac. In answer to the calls of the people, he made the following short but pertinent speech : “My friends and old townsmen, I thank you for your reception, and might reply, if this were not a time for action, and not for speech. Your applause, as I take it, is intended for my brave soldiers in Western Virginia. I am going to fulfil new duties, and I trust that your kindness will give me courage and strength. Good-bye.” –Philadelphia Press, July 26.

–The Seventeenth Regiment of Pennsylvania Militia, Colonel Francis E. Patterson, commanding, returned to Philadelphia, from the seat of war at Harper’s Ferry, Va.–Philadelphia Inquirer, July 26.

–Several of the Potomac fleet arrived at Washington to-day. Among them is the Resolute, which has been absent several days on an expedition across Chesapeake bay, and until her appearance to-day, it was thought she had been captured by the rebels. Important discoveries were made by Lieutenant Budd during her cruise. It was ascertained that the rebels are organizing large forces on the eastern shores of Virginia, and that a large amount of provisions and army stores are carried there across the bay into the Rappahannock and York rivers, and thence transported by way of Fredericksburg, and by the Richmond & York River Railroad to the rebel army on the Potomac. These supplies are introduced into Accomac Co. by two routes. They are brought from New York, around Piney Island, into Chingoteague inlet on the Atlantic side, and from Baltimore into the Pokomoke river on the Chesapeake side, and the whole of the lower part of Somerset Co., Maryland. The rebels are said to be actually swarming there. A stage line is running from Princess Anne through Newtown, across the line to Horntown, Virginia, by which the recruits for the rebel forces pass into Virginia. They and the supplies from New York and Baltimore are transported at night by small vessels, across the bay, into the Rappahannock and York rivers, the blockade of which for some unaccountable reason has been abandoned. The vessels carrying these supplies leave ports as coasters for Maryland, and manage to land their cargoes just below the Maryland line.

The rebels have erected batteries on either side of Onancock, between that and Pontegan on one side, and between Onancock and Chesconnessy on the other. A rebel picket guard is maintained at the mouth of the Onancock creek. Opposite to the month of this creek on the Chesapeake bay is Tangier Island, upon which there are about 800 Union men, comprising the whole adult male population, with one exception. At Watt’s Island, where there is a light house, the people are also Union. These people are in continual fear and in danger from the rebels on the eastern shore of Virginia.

The Resolute brought up three prizes–the schooners Artist and McCabe, and the sloop Chesapeake, which had been engaged in the transportation of men and supplies to the eastern shore of Virginia. The Artist is a neat first-class sailing craft, and it is believed that she was about to be converted into a rebel privateer.–N. Y. Times, July 20.

–The Sixth Indiana Regiment of State Militia, under the command of Colonel Crittenden, returned to Indianapolis from the seat of war. The troops were welcomed home in short and patriotic speeches by Governor Morton and Mayor Coburn.–Louisville Journal, July 26.

–Governor Morgan of New York issued a proclamation, in accordance with the request of President Lincoln, calling for twenty-five thousand men to serve for three years or during the war.–(Doc. 123.)

–Private G. W. Fox, a member of the Twenty-fourth Regiment of New York, was shot by the rebels, while performing picket duty near Ball’s Cross Roads, Va. He died soon after.–N. Y. Evening Post, July 26.

–General McClellan arrived at Washington, from Western Virginia.–Philip Kearney of Newark, N. J., was appointed Brigadier-General in the Federal army.–General Fremont arrived at St. Louis, Mo., this morning, and made his head-quarters at the residence of the late Colonel Brant.–The Fourteenth Regiment of Ohio State Militia returned to Toledo from Western Virginia, their term of enlistment having expired.–The Tenth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteers, under the command of Colonel Henry I. Briggs, embarked from Boston for Washington.–N. T. Times, July 26.

–General Banks arrived at Harper’s Ferry and assumed command of the army lately under Gen. Patterson, who left the same day.–(Doc. 124.)

–Kentuckians who have escaped from Pensacola and arrived at Louisville, Ky., say there are only about 6,000 Confederate troops at Fort Pickens, and that they are miserably fed and clothed, and have received no pay since March. Large numbers had died of typhoid fever. There have been many deserters, and almost the entire force are disgusted, and would return home if they could get away.–Louisville Journal, July 26.

–The rebels are putting the city of Memphis, Tenn., in a state of complete defence. The Appeal published in that city says:–The city proper is about to be put in trim for welcoming uninvited visitors to stay “till Gabriel blows his horn.” The bluff is to be protected by breastworks of cotton. Yesterday the bluff between Court and Adams streets was lined with bales. Each of the streets of the city, with the exception of Madison and Jefferson, is to be thus barricaded. The superintendence of the construction of these defences has been intrusted by Gen. Pillow to Messrs. E. M. Apperson and John Martin, esqs. With breastworks on the bluff and breastworks in the streets, Memphis will be in war trim.–N. Y. World, July 27.

–Captain Robert Garland and First Lieutenant Edward J. Brooks, Seventh Infantry, having given evidence of disloyalty, were dropped from the rolls of the Federal army. First Lieutenant James Leshler, Tenth Infantry, having overstayed his leave of absence, and failed to report to the Commanding Officer of the Department of the West, was dropped from the rolls of the army.–Army General Orders No. 47.

–Robert Toombs of Georgia tendered to the President his resignation of the Secretaryship of State of the Southern Confederacy, and it was accepted. The President nominated to Congress R. M. T. Hunter, of Virginia, for this office, and that body confirmed the nomination. Thus that distinguished post has lost the services of one of the ablest men in the Confederacy, only to be filled by another occupant equally as able in intellect and statesmanship. Mr. Toombs was of a temper to prefer the active duties of a soldier, in such a crisis as the present, to the monotony of an office, which, for the present, is little more than nominal; and we are glad to learn that the President has acknowledged his distinguished claims upon the confidence of the country by nominating him as a Brigadier-General in the Confederate army. Virginia’s position in the Confederacy has been acknowledged by assigning to one of her statesmen the highest post in the Confederate Cabinet Mr. Hunter is so well known to the country that it would be supererogatory to dwell upon the qualities of mind and character which fit him so eminently for the post to which he has been called. It would be difficult to define an instance in which the trite phrase of speech so justly applies–”The right man in the right place.”–Richmond Dispatch, July 26.

–A Convention of the principal banking corporations in the seceded States was held at Richmond. During the session C. G. Memminger briefly addressed the Convention, expressing his gratification, and that of the Confederate Government, at the liberal manner in which the Banks responded to the call of the Government, and offered several valuable suggestions for the consideration of the Convention. A report was adopted recommending that one hundred millions of dollars in Confederate notes should be put in circulation by the Government; that the people and banks should take them as if specie, and that the interest on larger bills should he at the rate of 7 3-10 per cent, per annum. Notes of the denomination of $5, $10, $20, in the opinion of the Committee, ought not to bear any interest; these would more appropriately perform the functions of a currency; and they are of opinion that the larger notes, such as $50 and $100, would be largely taken up by a patriotic class of citizens, who are not in the practice of making such investments. These notes would pass into their hands in the course of business, and they would very soon discover the advantage as well as the merit of thus contributing their aid in support of the Government of their choice and of their affections.– (Doc. 125.)

–The Charleston Mercury of to-day states that Washington has slipped through the fingers of the rebels merely for want of an adequate number of troops. It says:

“So weak have we been on the Potomac that until recently it was deemed almost criminal to tell the truth to the people of the South, because the knowledge of the truth transmitted to the North might have exposed our forces to annihilation from the overwhelming force about Washington.”

It anticipates another battle immediately, of greater magnitude, and calls upon the rebel States to gird up their loins for the renewal of the conflict.

–The Legislature of Mississippi assembled at Jacksonville, and received the message of Governor Pettus, who congratulated their body on the “prosperous and successful revolution, inaugurated last Fall,” and assured them success in the future.–(Doc. 125 ½.)

July 25, 1861

• With his troops’ enlistment expiring, Robert Patterson is relieved of duty in the Shenandoah Valley. He had failed to hold Joseph Johnston in Winchester to prevent Johnston from moving east to support Beauregard at Bull Run.
• The United States Congress passes the Crittenden–Johnson Resolution, stating that the war is being fought to preserve the Union and not to end slavery.
• The U. S. Congress approves the use of volunteers to put down the rebellion.

A Chronological History of the Civil War in America¹

• Governor of New York called for 25,000 additional troops.
• Skirmish at Harrisonville, Wa.
• Gen. McClellan takes command of the Army of the Potomac.

1. A Chronological History of the Civil War in America by Richard Swainson Fisher, New York, Johnson and Ward, 1863

July 24.–A.M. our regiment was reviewed by the Governor and Major-General Frémont. It was a gratifying scene. The Colonel (Frémont–I must always think of the man of fifty-six [as] the colonel) looked well. How he inspires confidence and affection in the masses of people! The night before I was introduced to him at the American. He is a romantic, rather perhaps than a great, character. But he is loyal, brave, and persevering beyond all compare. Lucy and Laura were present.

CAMP CHASE, July 24, 1861.

DEAR UNCLE:–I am surrounded by the bustle and confusion attendant upon a hurried leaving of camp. We go tomorrow at 5 A. M. to Zanesville by railroad, thence down the Muskingum on steamboats to Marietta, and on the Ohio to Ripley Landing, a short distance from Point Pleasant in Virginia. We are to be a part of General Rosecrans’ force against Wise.

Last night I had a good chat with Frémont. He is a hero. All his words and acts inspire enthusiasm and confidence. He and the governor reviewed our regiment today. Lucy, Laura, and many friends were present. It was a stirring scene. I wish you could have been here. You would subscribe heartily to General Fremont. Good-bye. My saddest feeling–my almost only sad feeling–is leaving you in such bad health.

Affectionately,

R. B. HAYES.

P.S.–Always send me full sheets of paper–the blank sheet is so useful. The use and scarcity of paper is appalling.

S. BIRCHARD.

July 24th.–Here Mr. Chesnut opened my door and walked in. Out of the fulness of the heart the mouth speaketh. I had to ask no questions. He gave me an account of the battle as he saw it (walking up and down my room, occasionally seating himself on a window sill, but too restless to remain still many moments); and told what regiments he was sent to bring up. He took the orders to Colonel Jackson, whose regiment stood so stock still under fire that they were called a “stone wall.” Also, they call Beauregard, Eugene, and Johnston, Marlboro. Mr. Chesnut rode with Lay’s cavalry after the retreating enemy in the pursuit, they following them until midnight. Then there came such a fall of rain–rain such as is only known in semitropical lands.

In the drawing-room, Colonel Chesnut was the “belle of the ball;” they crowded him so for news. He was the first arrival that they could get at from the field of battle. But the women had to give way to the dignitaries of the land, who were as filled with curiosity as themselves–Mr. Barnwell, Mr. Hunter, Mr. Cobb, Captain Ingraham, etc.

Wilmot de Saussure says Wilson of Massachusetts, a Senator of the United States, ¹ came to Manassas, en route to Richmond, with his dancing shoes ready for a festive scene which was to celebrate a triumph. The New York Tribune said: “In a few days we shall have Richmond, Memphis, and New Orleans. They must be taken and at once.” For “a few days” maybe now they will modestly substitute “in a few years.”

They brought me a Yankee soldier’s portfolio from the battle-field. The letters had been franked by Senator Harlan. ² One might shed tears over some of the letters. Women, wives and mothers, are the same everywhere. What a comfort the spelling was! We had been willing to admit that their universal free-school education had put them, rank and file, ahead of us literarily, but these letters do not attest that fact. The spelling is comically bad.

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¹ Henry Wilson, son of a farm laborer and self-educated, who rose to much prominence in the Anti-Slavery contests before the war. He was elected United States Senator from Massachusetts in 1855, holding the office until 1873, when he resigned, having been elected Vice-President of the United States on the ticket with Ulysses S. Grant.

² James Harlan, United States Senator from Iowa from 1855 to 1865. In 1865 he was appointed Secretary of the Interior.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24, 1861.

This has been a delightful day and one full of excitement and interest. The Ave has been thronged all day with soldiers. Small squads of them have been strolling into the City and all had their story of hair breadth escapes to tell surrounded by an eager crowd of listeners. Most of the Regts who were in the Action have returned to this side and taken up their old quarters, and other fresh troops have been sent over the River. I was at Willards this evening. The City is now overflowing. Sergent M Goodrich stayed with me tonight.

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The three diary manuscript volumes, Washington during the Civil War: The Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft, 1861-1865, are available online at The Library of   Congress.

JULY 24th.—Yesterday we received a letter from Col. Bartow, written just before the battle (in which he fell, his letter being received after the announcement of his death), urging the appointment of his gallant young friend Lamar to a lieutenancy. I noted these facts on the back of his letter, with the Secretary’s approbation, and also that the request had been granted, and placed the letter, perhaps the last he ever wrote, in the archives for preservation.