March 28, 1863, Memphis Daily Appeal (Jackson, Mississippi)

A gentleman who for many years was engaged in manufacturing cotton yarn and cloth in this State, has furnished us with the following estimate of the cost:

 When cotton was selling at eight cents per pound, the cost of manufacturing a five pound bunch of cotton thread, including the raw material, was about seventy cents, and including labor, wearing of machinery, etc. Then, the usual selling price was ninety cents a bunch paying a profit of about thirty per cent. nett to the manufacturer. Suppose the raw cotton is at this time worth sixteen cents a pound, (most of the manufacturers had already laid in more than six months supply at half that price) and the cost of manufacturing to be double former expenses, (which is not true); but at double rates for material, labor, etc. the nett cost of producing five pounds of yarn will not exceed $1.40 at the outside. Add seventy five per cent to this which is allowed by the conscription law ($1.05, a very large profit on one bunch of yarn) and the selling price will be $2.45 per bunch.

 The same rule will apply to cotton cloths, and restrain the manufacturer’s price to a trifle less than twenty-five cents per yard.–Iredell Express.

March 28, 1863, Nashville Dispatch

There is terrible destitution among the sufferers from the bombardment of Fredericksburg. A correspondent of the Richmond Examiner writes that the despoiled population numbers about six thousand. Of these, about one-fourth are destitute. This proportion has been fed by charity for about twelve weeks. The contributions, in the aggregate, were $200,000, and this sum is rapidly being exhausted. Families recently in the enjoyment of wealth are now beggars, living in negro cabins, and wandering about the country in search of food.

March 28, 1863, The New York Herald

The latest news from Vicksburg and Yazoo expeditions reaches us from Cairo last night. It appears that on last Saturday night another barge, containing one thousand bushels of coal, floated past the batteries at Vicksburg safely, for the use of Admiral Farragut’s fleet.

We have it on the authority of the Memphis Bulletin of Wednesday, that three of Admiral Porter’s gunboats have reached the Yazoo river by the Sunflower route and reached Greenwood.

The same journal says that our forces above Greenwood had abandoned the undertaking to force a passage, and were returning, when they met General Quimby’s division en route to reinforce them. A conference was had, the result of which is unknown, but it is thought that in consequence of the success of the new route the whole force would return.

The rebel accounts of affairs in the Southwest conflict somewhat with ours. Richmond papers of the 26th say that the Hartford and Monongahela were allowed to approach within four hundred yards of the rebel batteries at Grand Gulf, when they opened fire upon them, the vessels replying with broadsides several times. A dozen shots struck the vessels. Parties were seen carrying the wounded below. The Natchez Courier says the Hartford, with Admiral Farragut on board, anchored in front of that city on Tuesday afternoon, the 16th, and sent a small boat with a flag of truce ashore, with a note addressed to the Mayor, stating that if the United States gunboats were fired upon by the people of Natchez or by guerillas he would bombard the city. The Hartford remained all night and left with the Monongahela in the morning.

The Richmond Sentinel of the 24th, in giving their account of the situation in the Southwest, says: – “The last papers from the United states are jubilant over false reports of the success of the Yazoo expedition. Our own reports are several days later than theirs, and represent the expedition as thoroughly whipped, and in full retreat by the way they came. Thus far the enemy has utterly failed in every one of his late moves. Farragut was whipped at Port Hudson; Banks broke [continue reading…]

March 28, 1863, San Antonio Herald

The affair at the mouth of the Rio Grande was highly brilliant, glorious, and gratifying, and adds another bright chaplet to the brows of our Texas boys–we mean the capturing of those notorious traitors and renegades Judge E. J. Davis, (now a Federal Colonel) and the equally traitorous Montgomery, late of Lockhart, who immediately “went up a tree.” What a great pity Davis had not been sent up at the same time. The particulars will be found in another column.

We learn that Davis has since been surrendered on demand of the Mexican authorities.

March 28, 1863, San Antonio Herald

(Extract from a private letter.)

Brownsville, March 17th, 1863.

 Exciting occurrences have transpired here in the last day or two. Judge Davis now Col. Davis, and the notorious Montgomery (Major) of Lockhart, were over in Matamoras, last week; they enticed away many of our Regiment, who for $50 went over and swore into the Northern army. Last Friday the above named renegade officers left Matamoras with about 120 renegades and deserters, to embark on a Yankee steamer at the mouth, which was there to take them to New Orleans. A party of Confederates went down at the same time on this side of the river, to watch their operations. On Friday and Saturday the sea was so rough that they could not go out to their steamer. On Sunday morning at day-break the Confederate boys crossed over to the Mexican side and took Davis and Montgomery prisoners, and killed and captured about a dozen of the deserters. Two men on our side were wounded. Col. Davis was sent prisoner to this place, and Montgomery went up a tree on the end of a rope. He was a wealthy man, and has a family in Lockhart. The Mexicans were very angry at our having violated the sacred neutrality of their soil. Yesterday their blood went up to 100 degrees on the subject, but in a day or two it will be down below zero. Last night at about 11 o’clock the whole Regiment was called to arms, it being reported that the Mexicans were about to cross over. The men were under arms nearly all night. They have cooled down considerably on the other side to-day, and I believe everything will go on as smoothly as ever. Davis has been sent into the interior. He looked “awfully” down hearted when I saw him.

March 28, 1863, The New York Herald

To form a correct idea of the affairs of Texas, particularly of that portion of the State bordering on the Mexican frontier, and from which it is divided by the Rio Grande, it is necessary to take into account the geographical nature of either portion of the two countries bordering on that river and the feelings of the people with regard to the rebellion of the Southern States. The two nearest adjoining States of Mexico to Texas on the lower Rio Grande are Tamaulipas and New Leon and Coahuila – the latter being a State formed a few years since by the consolidation of the two States whose joint names it bears. These two States are by far the most powerful in population and wealth of any in that portion of Mexico. Confronting them for many miles there are, on the Texas side of the river, but three military posts. These are Fort Brown, Ringgold Barracks and Fort Duncan. These are old United States forts, and the only posts ever permanently occupied by our troops at any time. After the withdrawal of our forces, through the treason and treachery of Gen. Twiggs, the State rebels took possession of these forts. Fort Brown, the nearest to the mouth of the Rio Grande, was subsequently (in July, 1862) abandoned by the rebels for political reasons, which will be hereafter explained. At the time of their withdrawal they dismantled the fort, seized upon the Mexican steamboats then on the river, in defiance of the protest of Colonel Quiroga, Mexican commandant at Matamoros, and by this means conveyed the heavy guns from Fort Brown to Ringgold Barracks, higher up the river. Since that time the fort has never been occupied by military force, although it commands the two important towns of Brownsville and Matamoros, on either side of the river, being but a half mile distant from the former, and even less than that from the latter, and its defences are fast becoming worthless. The rebels have now concentrated a small force at Ringgold Barracks, not far from Rio Grand City. In the month of June last some few guns that had not been removed from Fort Brown were lying in an unserviceable condition. The bombproofs were in bad order, and there was not a solitary sentinel to be seen in the fort. It was formerly considered an important post, and its means of defence were considerable. It was surrounded by a wide ditch, a broad glacis, with breastworks and had bombproofs inside. About a year ago one of our informants started a covey of quails on the parade ground, near the bombproofs. The other military posts, though dignified by the high sounding titles of forts, possess little claim to be considered as such. They are neither defended by raised earthworks, ditch nor fosse. The ground so designated is merely surrounded by a picket fence, enclosing the shanties of the officers and soldiers. Last summer the [continue reading…]

March 28, 1863, The New York Herald

It is currently reported that President Lincoln will visit New York shortly. We hope that this report is well founded. The President has had very hard work at Washington with the hordes of office seekers, and contractors, and Congressmen, and other such troublesome fellows, and really needs relaxation. Let him come on, then, and bring Mrs. Lincoln and Secretary Seward along with him. Secretaries Chase and Welles have just been here, and were received and treated accordingly to their deserts. Consequently they need not come again at present. Secretary Stanton had better be left behind; for if he is caught outside of Washington he will probably be arrested, indicted and sent to prison. There are warrants issued against him already, we understand. The other Secretaries are of no importance, and might as well remain where they are and attend to their departments. The President, Mrs. Lincoln and Mr. Seward will meet with a splendid reception in New York, and will undoubtedly enjoy themselves wonderfully.

It is no joke to be President during such a crisis as this, and Mr. Lincoln must feel that he requires amusement. “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” says the ancient proverb. Mrs. Lincoln has labored quite as well in her graceful, benevolent womanly way as Mr. Lincoln has in his, and a change of scene and society will reinvigorate her. Secretary Seward is the hardest worker in the Cabinet, and the most successful, and the President should give him a holiday. We know how wearisome it is to be perpetually writing, and Secretary Seward’s diplomatic correspondence alone is enough to overfatigue any ordinary man. Fortunately New York is now just in the proper trim to entertain her distinguished guests, and to surpass the displays in London in honor of the marriage of the Prince of Wales. The bright sun of spring beautifies everything with its radiance. The pure air, fresh from the sea, will be most refreshing to lungs clogged with the miasmas of the Washington swamps. The Central Park is beginning to develop its charms, and its drives are most delightful. Wind and weather permitting, a fete champetre could perhaps be arranged for the President’s party by the residents of Washington Heights. There has never been a gayer winter in New York, and our fashionable openings are just taking place, and Mrs. Lincoln can delight herself with bonnets and robes of Parisian elegance and taste, while the [continue reading…]

March 28, 1863, Nashville Dispatch

The market is rather poorly supplied with vegetables, while prices of almost every article are very high. Sweet potatoes are selling at the rate of five dollars, Irish at three to four dollars, and turnip greens at two dollars per bushel. Fish and poultry of all descriptions are very scarce. Chickens sold in market yesterday at seventy-five cents a piece.

March 27th. We are still lying at our anchorage above Warrenton; everything quiet.

Friday, 27th–We started down the river at daylight this morning and landed about three miles below Lake Providence. We pitched our tents on the lawn of a fine plantation, some distance from the house. We found plenty of boards with which to build our bunks. We are situated about ten feet lower than the water in the river, but the levee is strong here, being well sodded over. Our camp is in the open, unprotected by shade trees. On coming down the river we saw our camp ground on the Sparrow plantation all flooded over, and the country as far as we could see was under water. The town of Lake Providence looked desolate with the houses standing in the water.

27th. Got into Columbus at 1. After a cup of coffee and lunch, walked out to camp. Delivered letters and packages. Wrote hastily to Fannie. Commenced instruction on Outpost and Picket. Got a lesson and recited in the evening. Read some in “Guide to the Savior.” My heart received new life in my visit home with F. and Mother. So anxious for us to do well. May we not disappoint them.

Pitching Camp.

March 27. We have cleared off the debris from a portion of the burnt district and pitched our camp there. The colonel might take a little more pride in showing us up to the naval officers at dress parade than he did when we were here last fall, but he is in command of the post; Lieut. Col. Moulton is in command of the regiment and he will do the honors. The 46th Massachusetts has arrived and will pitch their camp on the right of us, in the burnt district.

Work on the Fort.

Work commenced today on the defences. Capt. Foster of Company D is to he superintendent and general boss. I was detailed to take command of a working party from my company. Now this was all new business to me. 1 knew nothing about building forts, so I stood with my men and looked on. This was not very hard work, but after a spell the captain said, “Bring your men this way.” The order was promptly responded to, and the boys set to work. I thought they worked well enough, although I noticed that the bank in front of them did not rise very fast, but I supposed that was owing to the hardness of the soil. After a while they complained of feeling tired; I told them to rest, and they squatted. After that they seemed to be tired pretty much of the time. The captain would come along and ask me why my men were not working. I would answer him that they were tired, and after resting would handle their spades right smart. At night we had a bank thrown up about a rod long and nearly a foot high, but the boys worked well and I know they will sleep well after it.

Companies A, K and H arrived yesterday, and also the companies of the expedition who left with the general, except company I, which remains at Edenton for a few days.

27th.—To-day was set apart by the President as a day of fasting and prayer. Some of us went to Richmond, and joined in the services at St. Paul’s. The churches were all crowded with worshippers, who, I trust, felt their dependence on God in this great struggle. The President was in church, and, I believe, most of the dignitaries. One of the ladies of the hospital, seeing this morning two rough looking convalescent soldiers sitting by the stove, exhorted them to observe the day by prayer and fasting. They seemed to have no objection to the praying, but could not see the “good of fasting,” and doubted very much whether “Marse Jeff fasted all day himself—do you reckon he does” The lady laughingly told him that she would inquire and let them know, but she reckoned that such was his habit. In the course of the morning she met with Mrs. Davis, and told her the anecdote. “Tell them from me,” said Mrs. D., “that Mr. Davis never eats on fast-day, and that as soon as he returns from church he shuts himself up in his study, and is never interrupted during the day, except on public business.” Of course this was soon given as an example, not only to the two convalescents, but to the whole hospital.

MARCH 27th.—This is the day appointed by the President for fasting and prayers. Fasting in the midst of famine! May God save this people! The day will be observed throughout the Confederacy.

The news from the West, destruction of more of the enemy’s gun-boats, seems authentic. So far we have sustained no disasters this spring, the usual season of success of the enemy by water.

Mr. G. W. Randolph was the counsel of the speculators whose flour was impressed, and yet this man, when Secretary of War, ordered similar impressments repeatedly. “Oh, man! dressed in a little brief authority,” etc.

Mr. Foote has brought forward a bill to prevent trading with the enemy. Col. Lay even gets his pipes from the enemy’s country. Let Mr. Foote smoke that!

A gentleman Said, to-day, if the Yankees only knew it, they might derive all the benefits they seek by the impracticable scheme of subjugation, without the expenditure of human life, by simply redoubling the blockade of our ports, withdrawing their armies to the borders, and facilitating trade between the sections. We would not attack them in their own country, and in a month millions of their products would be pouring into the South, and cotton, tobacco, etc. would go to the North in vast quantities. I wonder the smart Yankee never thinks of this! Let both sides give passports freely, and an unlimited intercourse would be immediately established.

March 27, 1863, The Charleston Mercury

It is understood that Mr. DEBOW, the Confederate States Agent, has negotiated the purchase of between one hundred and fifty and one hundred and seventy-five thousand bales of cotton in Louisiana and Mississippi, at an average of about 12 cents. This is one-half of the late purchases of the Government in this cotton district. Four-fifths of this cotton, it may be fairly assumed, will be saved and materially strengthen our bonds in Europe. A large foreign credit is already predicated upon it, and the tangible results will soon be felt by the army and the navy. Agents are authorized to pay the market value of the cotton, which is ascertained by reference to what private parties are willing to pay.

March 27, 1863, American Citizen (Canton, Mississippi)

Impelled thereto by business engagements, we last week made a short visit to Vicksburg, taking in our route Calhoun, Madison, Tagaloo, Shotwell’s tank, Jackson, Clinton, Bolton’s, Edward’s, Bovina, “and all intermediate landings.” From the route we took, as indicated by the above names, it will be reasonably inferred that we traveled “by rail.” Such was certainly our intention, but in it we failed. “The best laid schemes of mice and men gang aft aglee.”

 In our peregrinations we saw but little that was interesting or noteworthy, consequently we took no “notes,” though we did take “note of time,” as TIME–however much “tempus” may “fugit,” was not a fast fugitive to us, but rather hung heavily upon our hands while away from “the young folks at home.” In former times–before grim war’s dreadful alarums resounded throughout the land–it was a pleasure and a benefit to any man to take a short respite and recreation from business in a trip to the “Hill City,” or the “Crescent City;” but now, in these times of “war and pestilence and famine,” the very worst punishment that could be inflicted upon a man would be to compel him to leave home and travel on railroads and take lodgings and meal-s at the hotels.

 The first feature that presents itself to the mind of the wayfaring man is, the great number of soldiers that are continually “going to and fro, up and down in the earth,” crowding all the cars on all the railroads;–the next is, the vast number of soldiers–officers, especially,–that are found at all the railroad depots of any note, and in all the towns along the lines of railroads. At Jackson we tarried a day. The city was alive with soldiers, and it seemed to us that every third man we met was an officer, had on shoulder straps, or a “spangle” of some sort to indicate that the wearer was something more than a “common soldier.” The inquiry naturally arises, What are all these officers and soldiers doing out of camps? Why are they not with their regiments, on duty, in active service? There were, it seemed to us, a sufficient number of officers and men walking about the streets of Jackson to form a full regiment. How it is that so many men, able-bodied and healthy, are enabled to shirk their duty and keep out of the service, passeth our comprehension. While thousands are thus loitering about the cities, towns and railroad stations, all over the Confederacy, of no benefit whatever to the great cause in which we are engaged, the plea is made here in Mississippi by our sapient Governor, that the danger at present is so imminent that not a man can be spared from the field, and that the very salvation of the country depends upon retaining the militia in active service!–many of whom are old men not fit for military duty, but who ought to be at home, superintending their crops and raising bread and meat to supply the demands of the army and the people. The Confederate authorities should at once call all stragglers to the field, and Governor Pettus should disband the militia without further delay. He has committed an error in keeping them in the field up to the present time; the longer he persists in that error–to gain a reputation as “a man of firmness and decision of character”–the greater will be the detriment to the agricultural interests of the State, and to his own fair fame. Disband the “melish,” Governor, disband the “melish,” and let them raise corn, and you’ll raise yourself in the estimation of everybody.

 We found Jackson decidedly “a hard road to travel,” and had we traveled in a ‘chaise,’ we would have found it much more so. The several roads from the depot to the business part of the city are the worst we have ever seen–an almost unfathomable mass of mud. We saw a large horse in a small wagon containing a small trunk, threading his way through this loblolly. He “made the trip,” but it was by straining every nerve and sinew to its greatest tension. We saw a four-mule team, with only one box in the wagon, come to a dead stall, while only two of the wheels were in the mud, the other two being on hard ground. The mules had to be taken out and the wagon abandoned for the time. But the mud is not all that makes Jackson a “hard road to travel.” The spirit of speculation and extortion and extortion runs rampant in Jackson, as, indeed, does it in almost every other place in the Confederacy. We priced some things, which will give an idea of the whole catalogue of commodities. Seed Irish potatoes are $30 per bushel; molasses, $2.50 per gallon; sugar 50c., butter $1.50 per lb; eggs, $1.50 per doz.; soft hats $30; boots, $60; &c. “That is sufficient!” as Tom Haines said when he saw the elephant.

 In reference to the important matter of something to eat, the following, told by the Hinds Co. Gazette, accords admirably with our experience:

 ” A hungry friend of ours went into a hotel, not twenty miles from Raymond, one day last week. In due time the bell announced that dinner was ready. Our friend made rapid strides for the dining room. On entering it an official reminded him that $1 was to be paid. He paid it and took a seat at the table. The table was large and well filled with hungry men, but contained but two dishes–poor beef and the commonest sort of corn bread. Our friend doubted the ability of two such dishes, without support, to appease his appetite. He modestly inquired of a waiter if there was no butter. The reply was affirmative, but with the remark, “that’s extra.” “Very well,” said our friend, “bring me some any how.” A piece as large as a turkey’s egg was brought, with the intelligence, “four bits, if you please, sir.” The four bits were paid. “Have you no milk?” inquired our friend. “Yes,” replied the waiter, “but that’s extra.” “Give me a glass any how,” said our friend. In due time a glass of milk appeared, with “four bits, if you please, sir.” The four bits were paid. And thus our friend and the waiter when through with four eggs for four bits and a cup of rye and sweetened water for four bits, and two hard biscuits for four bits, &c., &c. When our friend got through he found that he had swallowed a very common dinner, and very little of it, and that it cost him just four dollars and a half! Is the country exhausted, or does that man at Jackson who wants “all the corn, all the meal, all the pork, and all the rice,” get it all, and then let it out by the four bit’s worth as above illustrated? “

 In the still more important matter of lodging, this is our experience: we lodged at the “––––– House,” slept–or, rather, assumed a recumbent posture during a part of the night–with another gentleman, on a single mattrass, (not much margin on either side,) with about a handful of feathers to bolster up our head; not a single chair in the room nor to be had, and “everything else in proportion.” For these elegant and commodious accommodations we tendered to the clerk one dollar, on receiving which he remarked that a half dollar more was due. We were glad that it was not a dollar more, and handed it over with “promptness and dispatch.”

 On Wednesday, we reluctantly continued our trip towards Vicksburg on the cars. It was very desirable to have our life insured before entering upon this perilous journey, but so dangerous is it considered to travel on this road, that no company would insure a man’s life for a sevenpence who intended to pass over it. We were glad, however, to perceive evidences of improvement along the road. The new President, Victor F. Wilson, is said to be an energetic, working man, and has gone to work vigorously in repairing the track……We got on very well until we arrived within about six miles of Vicksburg when the iron horse was suddenly reined up, and it was soon announced to the anxious passengers that a culvert had caved in, and it was impossible for the cars to proceed.–The alternative was thus left to the passengers either to wait until word could be sent to the city and a flat car sent out, or to walk the distance of six miles. A majority, we believe, chose the latter horn of the dilemma, sharp as it was, and proceeded as rapidly as possible to lessen the distance between them and the city. We had not proceeded far before we came to a very long bridge spanning a very deep ravine; at each end of this bridge was stationed a soldier whose instructions were to let no footman pass. This is one instance of the foolish, absurd and preposterous orders sometimes issued by military men. Here we were with our Provost passes, permitting us to go to Vicksburg, but because we were not in the cars, we were not allowed to cross on the bridges, but were compelled to walk down and up three long hills, such hills as Warren county and the city of Vicksburg alone can boast of. As it was the last feather that broke the camel’s back, so it was the walking up the last of these hills that “got us down.” When we arrived at Vicksburg we were pretty much in the condition of the Yankee’s “keow”–we had “well nigh gin eout.”

 What we saw and heard in the “Hill City” we must reserve for another chapter, as, since we commenced this article, much copy has come in of a more important and interesting character. We will say, however, our observations induce us to believe that Vicksburg can be held in defiance of any number of men that can be brought against her.

March 27, 1863, Southern Banner (Athens, Georgia)

Persons indebted to the Southern Banner office, from one dollar up to one hundred, can now discharge their indebtedness in clean cotton or linen rags, at five cents per pound, delivered at this office. This is a fair proposition, and we hope every body will avail themselves of it.

We will also pay the same amount in cash for rags delivered at this office.

March 27, 1863, Peoria Morning Mail (Illinois)

 The Democracy of Pekin Township assembled in large numbers at the Court House in the city of Pekin, on Saturday evening last; and organized by calling J. McDonald to the chair and appointing H. P. Finnigan Secretary.

 After the nomination of a town ticket, and the transaction of other business the following Preamble and Resolutions were unanimously adopted.

 Whereas, the Union has no existence separate from the Federal Constitution, but being created solely by that instrument, it can only exist by virtue thereof; and when the provisions of that Constitution are suspended either in time of war or in peace, whether by the North or the South, it is alike disunion; Therefore

 Resolved, That the acts of the federal administration in suspending the writ of habeas corpus; the arrest of citizens not subject to military law, without warrant or authority, transporting them to foreign States, incarcerating them without charge or accusation, denying them the right of trial by jury, prescribing, in many cases, arbitrary; illegal test oaths on their discharge, and finally attempting to indemnify those responsible for the same under the law; in abridging the freedom of speech and of the press; in suppressing newspapers; in establishing a secret police; in declaring martial law over States not in rebellion, where the courts are open to punish crime; in attempting to enforce a compensated emancipation; in proposing to tax white men to purchase and elevate the negro; in the dismemberment of the State of Virginia–are each and all subversive of the Federal and State Constitutions, and the reserved rights of the people, and tend to a consolidated military despotism. In deep reverence for our Constitution, which has been ruthlessly violated, we do hereby enter our most solemn protest against these usurpations of power.

 Resolved, That while this war was conducted with the avowed purpose on the part of the administration and of congress to restore the constitution and the Union, and the constitutional authority of congress over the whole Union, we gave it our hearty support, and continued to do so until the administration made it a war for the liberation of the negro, and destructive of the constitutional rights of the States, and individuals; that we are and ever have been opposed to a war for the freedom of the negro, or the destruction of any right of any State or individual under the Constitution.

 Resolved, That the conscription and indemnification bill recently passed by Congress are subversive of the sovereignty and rights of the States, and designed to make them mere dependencies upon the central Government, unconstitutional in their provisions, and dangerous to the liberties of the people.

 Resolved, That the Government of the United States is vested with full power by the Federal Constitution to prosecute war; and that there is no “war power” outside the Constitution; that the President can execute the laws only by such means as the Constitution and the laws give him power to employ; and that the establishment of the doctrine that the President possesses, or that Congress can confer upon him, unlimited power over the land by a declaration of martial law, with immunity for wrongs and trespasses upon the rights of the people, is a calamity little, if any, less to be deplored than the success of the rebellion.

 Resolved, That we will maintain our soldiers in the field, and at home, in all their social, political and military rights; and while we are proud of their capacity, and glory in their achievements, we deprecate their treatment by the Administration, and many of their officers; and we declare that they did not enter the military service to steal either negroes or cotton, nor to be treated like the serfs of a Czar, but as citizens, the equals in character, in spirit, in patriotism and in social relations, of any of their officers, or of the President of the nation; and we protest against their being compelled, in the ranks of the army, to become the associates of negroes, and the equals in degradation of the slaves in the South.

 Resolved, That we condemn and oppose all secret political associations; they are the dens of demagogues, the enemies of the republic, and the assassins of liberty.

 Resolved, That there can be no liberty where there is no freedom of the press; and that it is the ancient and constitutional right of the people to canvass public measures, and the merits of public men.

 Resolved, That, under no circumstances are we willing to submit to the illegal and arbitrary arrests of our citizens; that the writ of habeas corpus must be restored, the rights of citizens respected, and civil, not military law be supreme, so long as civil law can be maintained; that we will protect and defend the constitution of the state of Illinois and the rights of her citizens against all and every violation, whether civil or military, from any quarter whatsoever.

 Resolved, That the recent arrest of the Hon. Charles H. Constable for discharging his duty as an officer and a citizen, was an open attack by the military power upon the liberties of the people, and an attempt to destroy the judiciary of the State, whose duty it is by law to protect and preserve to the public their rights; and we call upon the governor of the state to demand his instant release, and the prosecution of the parties who were in complicity with the outrage.

 Resolved, That we tender to Judge Constable the assurance of our heartfelt sympathy in this outrage upon his rights as an officer and a citizen; that we will not forsake him in any emergency, but will see that the majesty of the law is as amply vindicated as it has been grossly violated in his person.

 Resolved, That at all times, and more especially the present, the people should keep themselves informed concerning the condition of State and National affairs, and to this end the circulation of good democratic newspapers should be encouraged; we therefore recommend the Tazewell Register, Illinois State Register, Chicago Times, and Peoria Morning Mail as reliable sources of information, and worthy of public patronage.

 On motion the secretary was directed to forward a copy of the resolutions to Judge Constable, and also to Gov. Yates.

 On motion the following gentlemen were appointed by the chair to act as the township committee for the ensuing year:

J. B. Cohrs, James Haines, B. S. Prettymen, C. A. Roberts and H. P. Finigan.

 The chair announced that a meeting of the German Democrats will be held in the Court House next Wednesday evening, for the purpose of organization.

 In response to the calls of the meeting, Mr. Prettyman took the stand, and in a speech of about an hour, ably and successfully vindicated the position of the Democracy as indicated in the resolutions. His speech was listened to with interest, and gave great satisfaction to the Democracy, who evinced their approbation by frequent applause.

 Jonathan Haines, who had just returned from Washington, made some interesting remarks concerning matters and things in that locality.

 On motion it was ordered that the proceedings of the meeting be published in the Tazewell Register, and that the Chicago Times, State Register, PEORIA MAIL, and other Democratic papers be requested to copy the same.

March 27, 1863, Southern Banner (Athens, Georgia)

–The Columbus Sun says:

“If you would like cheap newspapers, a good supply of writing paper and envelopes–all of which are almost as indispensable as clothing–save your rags. Let the rag bag become a recognized institution in every household. Nothing would tend more to increase the quantity of paper, and cheapen its price, than the general institution of the rag bag. Let every scrap of cloth, rope and thread, refuse cotton, flax or hemp forms the fibre be diligently saved, and sold to the paper mills and paper will become abundant and be furnished at reduced rates.

“People of the South, if you would read and write, save your rags.”

March 27, 1863, The New York Herald

The only news from the Potomac Army today is that Governor Curtin, of Pennsylvania, visited the troops from his State and made quite a sensation among them.

The forces of Union cavalry under Major Stratton, which was sent from Suffolk to relieve the garrison of General Foster command, who were hemmed in at Winfield, N.C., as we reported yesterday, has just been heard from. They were in full pursuit of the enemy, who fled on their approach across the Chowan river with the aid of flatboats and rafts. General Foster subsequently destroyed these appliances of escape by the fire of his gunboats. The fight was of short duration, but while it lasted was kept up on both sides in a spirited manner. We had eight of the Eleventh Pennsylvania cavalry wounded in the encounter.

General Burnside has assumed command of the Department of Ohio, and has issued his order announcing the fact, which is declared most satisfactory. Indiana is made a separate military district, under General Carrington, who reports to General Burnside. The rebel advance force in the Kentucky invasion is variously estimated at from thirty-five hundred to ten thousand. Our troops are concentrating rapidly. Skirmishing was going on yesterday at Camp Dick Robinson, Ky., where a grand engagement was expected to come off soon.

We are in possession of news from Memphis, by way of Cincinnati, dated yesterday, to the effect that Admiral Farragut’s flagship Hartford discovered the Indianola at Hard Times Bend and recaptured her without resistance. The rebels had been at work on her, and she was nearly ready for service. The Queen of the West is up the Black river out of the reach of our vessels. The Jackson Appeal of the 18th instant says that General Banks had failed to make a land attack, and that Farragut went into the fight alone and passed the rebel batteries at Port Hudson at night under a terrific cannonade.

The Royal Gazette of Georgetown, British Guiana, of the 26th of February, contains the following: – It is rumored that his Excellency has issued instructions to the pilot department to the effect that, in the event of the Alabama calling here shortly on the plea of requiring supplies, the pilots are to inform Captain Semmes that as his vessel has recently received supplies at Jamaica, none can be obtained here within the time allowed by the home regulation.

March 27, 1863, Richmond Enquirer

It is said that there is a certain gloom and anxiety over our people, greater than that which was observed even during the winter of 1861–1862; that disastrous season which witnessed the reverses of Fort Donelson, Nashville, Roanoke Island, Memphis and New Orleans. Yet there is no cause for despondency in the military situation, nor does any exist amongst military men. It is the peaceable trading citizens who exhibit this sombre gloom. An officer visiting Richmond from the camp near Fredericksburg, declares that it makes him sad to see the long countenances, and he hurries back to his regiment. From the army of Tennessee, from Vicksburg, Fredericksburg, Charleston, the accounts of our armies and of the state of our defences are every day more and more cheering. What, then, is the meaning of this civilian despondency, if any there be?

It is due, in the first place, to the feigned alarms of those who seek to inflate prices still further, under the influence of a sort of general panic, so that they may amass sudden fortunes. The greedy rage of speculation has increased in intensity within twelve months, and seized upon all classes. – Cunning speculators have found, in the disordered condition of the currency, while Congress had not yet matured plans of curing the evil, infinite facilities to gamble in all sorts of products, and make prices to suit themselves. During the preceding winter all were patriotic and the spirit of self-sacrifice was stronger than avarice, both amongst solders and civilians. These last few months a greedy madness has seized on most of the latter class, and that noble patriotism finds finds refuge in the camp.

Another cause of the present collapse of public spirit amongst merchants and politicians is the bursting of the great Northwestern bubble; a foolisher craze, perhaps than even those two previous hallucinations which did us such deadly harm – the King Cotton delusion first, and then the French intervention bowl of Tantalus. Singular as it may appear, many thousands of persons of intelligence did for a while dream and dote, that Vallandigham and the intelligent lady would somehow bring us peace in thirty days – or say thirty-five. The future historian of the struggle will have to relate [continue reading…]

March 27, 1863, The New York Herald

NEWS FROM WASHINGTON.

WASHINGTON, March 26, 1863.

Four hundred and eighty-four rebel prisoners were sent South tonight by the flag of truce boat State of Maine, under charge of Captain Mulford. The number was made up of two hundred and forty prisoners that reached here last night from Sandusky, Ohio, captured mostly in Missouri, and two hundred and forty-four from the Old Capitol and Carroll prisons of this city. Among the prisoners were twelve officers captured prior to the proclamation of Jeff. Davis and the interruption of interchanges of officers caused thereby; also Dr. Wilmer, of rebel smuggling notoriety. The steamer State of Maine takes the place of the regular flag of truce boat New York while the latter is having her boilers repaired in Philadelphia.

Something of a scene took place as the prisoners were being marched on board the boat, in consequence of a party of rebel sympathizers, mostly females, making so demonstrative a display of their affection for the prisoners as to cause the guards to require them to vacate the wharf. The females seemed inclined to hold their ground, waving their handkerchiefs and kissing their hands to the prisoners, who replied by noisy cheers and shouts. The Union soldiers were greatly excited by this impudent demonstration, and expressed their indignation by groans and warm expressions of feeling. In view of the inhuman treatment of Union prisoners at Richmond, nothing restrained them from pitching into both Butternuts and sympathizers but the fact that the first were prisoners in their hands and the latter were women.

March 27, 1863, Peoria Morning Mail (Illinois)

Pish!Pshaw!Pooh!–The Washington correspondent of the Chicago Times has the effrontery to declare that there is a movement on foot in New York city, looking towards the impeachment of the President at the opening of the next session of Congress, in the manner provided by the Constitution.The movement, he says, originated with the most eminent constitutional lawyers of the country, including two from the West, and is in the hands of men whose character for decision and firmness, as well as for courage, is a sufficient guarantee that they will carry it through.

We presume that this statement is a falsehood, “made out of whole cloth.”The Copperheads may have the will, but they lack the courage, to attempt an outrage of this nature–Buffalo Commercial Advertiser.

March 26th. To-day the men have been at work forming barricades on the poop deck and forecastle with hammocks and old sails; it will prove to be quite a protection to the men who are exposed at these points, as Minie balls are dealt out to us in a profuse manner generally.

We were honored to-day with a visit from Major-General Grant and staff. A consultation of war was held on board by them and our Admiral.