The New York Herald Newspaper, February 27, 1865, Page 5

WILMINGTON. Particulars of the Capture of the City. Forty Pieces of Artillery Left in the Works Around the Town. ~————~—rnr* Frightful Condition of the Released Union Prisoners. General Terry’s Corps Again Concentrated. Thanks of New York and the Nation to Porter and His Fleet. Reception of the Resolutions and Letters by the Admiral, on, &o., Our Special Wilmington Despatch. Wnaacrow, N. C., Feb. 22, 1865. Washington's birthday has been fitly celebrated in this department. Wilmington has followed Charleston, and the last rebel seaport has fallen. General Bragg in person left tho city on the morning Of tho 2ist. The troops began to move out in the even- fing, tho last leaving before daylight of the 22d. About forty pioces of heavy artillery wore left in the works around the city and in the batteries on the river, and five hundred stand of rifles were found at the City Hall, and one Whitworth gun at the depot. Some five thousand dollars worth of commissary stores were also abandoned. Three locomotives and a dozen cars fell {nto our hands, Seven hundred bales of cotton were ‘burned in the government sheds, and about three hun- red belonging to private individuals, A rebel ram, partly finished, three steam mills, three large Qurpentine works and adjacent wharves, and ‘the railroad and pontoon bridge, were destroyed. Tho railroad depot, car houses, machine shops and most of the warchouses were uninjured. The exten- sive government stables were set on fire, but oxtinguished by the citizens. Theram Chickamauga, and two trans- Ports, escaped up the river. The Raleigh Confederate, two days before the evacua- ‘tion, charged that fifteen thonsand bales of cotton were Concealed in the city, Citizen merchants place the num- “ber at ton thousand, and put a high estimate upon tho turpentine concealed. Both the cotton and turpentine ‘will bo sent North by Genorul Schofield. ‘Tho evacuation of Fort Anderson early Sunday morn fing, tho 19th, was followed by an immediate advance on the part of the fleet and the land forces, The fleet was sean by a skirmish line of yawls connected by drag which effectually removed all torpedoes. Tho $ebel roar was overtaken *by Colonel Morris’ brigade, Becond division, Twenty-third corps, from Fort Ander- on, in time to extinguish the fire of tho bridges leading Over the swamps and streams in its rear; and this force, uniting with General Cox, who the night before had nearly reached the line of retreat of the @nemy pushed on to Town creek where the enemy was Strongly posted in works which secmed to defy assault, Meantime the fleet advanced to the mouth of Town Greek and reconnoitered the fort on the loft bank of the river, six miles below the city. Gen, Terry marched ‘threo miles beyond the Hine which Hoke abandoned on Foderal Point simultaneously with the evacuation of Anderson, He met with no resistance, and at night was by Gen. Ames, who had been operating under . Cox in the flanking movements against Anderson. On tho 20th General Terry moved Paines’ Third divi- gion, Twenty-fifth corps of colored troops, in advance, and with a loss of ten killed and forty-tive wounded rove the rebels into a strong line of fleld works, five from Wilmington. General Ames’ Second division, -fourth corps, supported the advance, losing two &. Qn the right bank of the river General Cox wae performing a most brilliant movement, result- fng in the rout of the rebels at Town @reek. This creck, about seven miles below ‘Witmington, on the right bank of the river, ts thirty feet deep, skirted with swamps decmed impassablo by the robels. The only bridge crossing it was approached by a long cruseway completely covered by artillery. The works opposite were carefully con. Gtracted, and constituted the principal line upon which the onomy depended for the defence of the city on that Dank. The works were strongly manned. In searching the swamps near the river, General Cox, Third division, Twenty-third corps, found an old scow Oapablo of holding thirty men. Leaving a single brigade (Colonel Henderson’s), with battery D, First Uhio light artillery of his division, to occupy the attention of the enemy in his front, he carefully withdrew his three Femaining brigades—Casoment’s, Reilly's (Colonel Stell @ommanding), and Moore's, and concealing them fn the swamp, began to cross them into the thick swamp beiow the enomy’s lino with this one crazy cow. This was accomplished without discovery, the @nomy deeming any tank moveinent impossible. After crossing, these three brigades waded through the swamp waist deep for half a mile, and finding a cir- @uitous path through arice field aftera march of four files emerged into the woods in rear of the enemy's works, and on the telegraph road from Wilming. ton to Smithville upon which the rebel were situated, While Casement’s and Mtrsuceye moved rapidly down this road, the One Hundredth Ohio in advance as skirmishers, Colonel ‘Moore was sent to the old public road, further west, and the only line of retreat left tothe enemy. At this juncture the rebels discovered thata crossing had ‘deen effocted, and hastily constructed rifle pits to protect their rear. The moment our troops came in sight of the works they assaulted impetuously and with the wild est enthusiasm, all seeming to understand and enjoy the Brilliant game. The enemy opened rapidly with grape and cannister; but, firing hurriedly and with ill dirocted ‘aim, our loss was only three killed and twenty-seven woundod. The works were carried at the point of the bayonet, the enemy routed, two twelve-pounder guns captured, ‘with caissons complete, and one Whitworth dis- abled, together with Colonel Simonton, of the famous Charleston City Battalion, thirty-two of- foors and three hundred and fifiy men. The Test escaped in confusion, Colonel Moore not being able to reach the public road in time to intercept the fugi- tives, Buch a move reflects tho greatest crodit upon General @ox, and is worthy of the Twenty-third corps. It proved ‘tho key to Wilmington. On the night of the 20th the rebels sent down eighteen Aloating torpeddes through the fleet. One struck a picket ‘Boat and exploded, killing two men. The others passed Barmlessly by. On the 21st all was quiet on Federal Point, oxespt that General Ames roconnoitered the forts on the left of Torry’s lino, and found them too strong to justify an as Gault, His loss was one killed and cieven wounded, The floet continued to bombard them briskly during the day, the enemy replying vigorously with very long range 8, Genoryl Cox moved from Town Creck at c o’olock A. M., and roached Brunswick river, oppo- site Wilmington, as oleven o'clock P.M. ‘The rebels did fot resist, but burned the railway bridge crossing to Eagle island, fired the pontoon’ bridge and ent it adrift, Pho Sixteenth Kentucky, Colonel White, secured a fow Pontoons, partially burned, and, crossing his regiment, Skirmiahed across tho ‘sland, establishing outposts on the Causeway over a swamp, and within musket range of the wharves. Upothis narrow way the rebels opened from Ghe city with two Whitworth gu Still before our skirmish line was established in the swamp, Qrtillory forriod over and a fgw shell thrown into the city $ convince tho rebels that we wore In force, On tho first appearance of our troops on tho island the ts wot fire to the nent cotton sheds and to an foished tron-clad, and withdrew into the city. Tho @onstornation of the enemy at our unex pected mncoess in reaching the city was plainly geon in thoir actions. This success was quite as unox- (petted by us, and not lovked for uaul ator (he arvivel of NEW YORK HERALD, a the two remaining divisions of the Twenty-third coaps, then at Smithville. But for the sound judgment of General Cox we should have lost the great advantage gained. Just as Genoral Schofield was preparing to follow General Cox, at noon, a message arrived from General Terry, saying that the enemy was in very heavy force in his front, and ‘that from information which he deemed trustworthy re- inforcements had arrived from Charleston, and that he could not hold his lineif attacked. This information was Sent 10 General Cox with orders to return at once to the mouth of Town creek, where boats would be in readiness to cross his command to Terry’s assistance, Fortunately the order did not reach Gen. Cox until dark, and he, feoling confident from his own observation that the information upon which the order was given was fuise, concluded to remain and report the fact, and sent Moore’s brigade back to report, and begin the crossing if still deemed advisa- ble, General Schofield at once approved his action, — ordered him to remain. The result proved the wisdom of this conclusion. the rebels began to withdraw at dark, and at daylight tho place was evacuated. General Cox’s skirmishers crossed into the city at this hour, and General Terry's forces marched through the place at nine A. M., and pressed on after the enomy. The ferry boats being destroyed, Gene- ral Cox could not cross his main force until noon. ‘The fleet arrived at the wharf about the middle of the afternoon, and immediately fired a salute, am. important matter which the land forces had forgotten. Although, as a matter of prudence, the robels had re- ‘moved their public stores from the city, still they fully expected to hold-our forces in chock for several weeks, Teiying for this upon tho groat strength of their works and upon expected reinforcements. The prompt and unlooked for oocupation of Eagle Island alone compelled them to retire. It was not until [this was in possession of our forces that the removal of the Union prisoners in the city began. There wore between four and five thousand of these, the majority having just been brought from Florence, 8, C., to prevent their falling into Sherman's hands. In the of eminent engineers, the Cape Fear river, from Wilmington to the ocean, is more strongly fortified than any oue of our Northern harbors or any other river in the world. Nineteen forts and batteries line its approaches within the short distance named, all of the heaviest character, most scientifically construct- ed, and thoroughly armed. Besides these the rebels had placed in the stream three lines of formida- ble obstructions, consisting of piles, torpedoes, sunken ships and cribs, chain cables and rafts of heavy timber fastened together. The city itself stands upon 4 terrace rising some thirty feet above the river and the low land to the South on Federal Point. Along this crest, about two miles from the city, were the Southern defences, and, both from position and construc- tion, they were most formidable. The entire front of this lino was covered by a succession of lakes and deep swamps, stretching from the river to the ocean, and only crossed by two narrow causeways. Then three miles out- side of their works was a second very strong line. The city was capable of stronger defence than any other we have taken during the war. Its only lack was in men. General Schofield was most heartily congratulated on all sides for this most flattering result of his combina- tions, It must be remembered, in this connection, that only one division—the Third—and one brigade—Moore’s— of the Second, of the Army of the Ohio, were ongaged, the remainder ,of the Twenty-third corps not haviug arrived. ‘The total loss on both sides of the river, after General Schofield took command, will fall a trifle below two hun- dred. This was owing t6 the fact that no position was assaulted which could be turned. But few citizens left the city, except such as the enemy forced to enter the ranks and follow. All able-bodied men hid themselves, and thronged the streets as soon as our forces entered. The ladies were also out in force, and the-negroes crowded all the avenues. Not a symp- tom of animosity was displayed by man, woman or child thronghout the day. Early in the morning a large class of citizens began to help themselves to the goods in the stores; but a provost guard soon stopped this traffic, so poculiar to rebel towns, ‘The city contains # number of very fine chureh ed fices and public buildings and many beautiful private resi- dences; but these serve to make the general as of the rest more conspicuout. The Union prisoners had been confined at camp Lamb, about a mile from the city. Their treatment was worthy of what might be infliced by fiends from Heil. Though the arrangements for general exchange have been completed at Richmond, the — star- ving process goes on. For three days before the evacuation those prisoners had not received a mouth- ful to eat. To the credit of the citizens, many attempts were mude to relieve them; but the food was in all cases taken from them by ordor of the officer in command, and. trodden into the ground before the eyes of tho prisoners and the citizens, It was thought that four hundred were recovered ; but many were in a dying con- dition, All that has appeared in the public prints in regard to this matter utterly fais to prepare one for the awful reality, After nerying my self for the visit, and trying to picture all the horrors while riding slowly over tho half mile to the house where they had been collected, my brain reeled for the moment, as the sickening reality burst upon me. Olticers came in, and those who had never quailed on the fled of death, whose cheeks had never blanched, there stood aghast, with tears in their eyes, grinding thoir tweth, clenching their hands, and thanking God that thore was a Hell. Pale, haggard and emaciated, skeletons glared on us from glassy eyes where the light of reason was just expiring. With matted hair and skin blackened with pine smoke, scarcely covered with the filthiest shreds of cast-off rebel clothing, without blankets, and most of them without coats and shoes, half gazed at us with an almost idiotic stare, while the majority could with difficulty be roused from their listlessness. Many had forgotten their nam some could be roused and their momories quickened by asking them of their homes, their wives and children, these macic words bringing them back frou: the grave into which they wore sinking so fast, Many were dying of starvation, with their bands clutching the bread our soldiers had brought them,‘and as they lay there dying an old negro Woman passed from one to another, tender- ly smoothing their awful passage to the grave. Knowing that the authors of all this miacry had escaped, it was consoling to repeat “ Vongeance is mino; I will repay, saith the Lord,” Mr. Thomas M. Cook's Despate! Usrrap States Fracame MALveRs, Care Fran Riven, Feb, 19, 1965, ASCENT OF CAPR YRAR RIVER BY ADMIRAL PORTER'S FLEET. My communications to you of this morning's date left our army in uncertain positions on either bank of the river, and the navy preparing to pass Fort Anderson. After removing the torpedoes in the vicinity of the fort the naval vessels pressed on up the stream, a long line of sinall boats preceeding them and feeling out the channel, No difliculty was met with until we reached a point about five miles below Wilmington, where the small boats were opened upon by a battery planted at Drumtree Point. Here the fleet came to anchor and pre- parations were at once begun to attack the enemy with- out delay. Unfortunately, howover, the Monitor Mon- tauk grounded ona bar incoming up, and before she could be got off, or other dispositions made, it was too late in the day to¥justify the commencement of an action, MOVEMENT OF THR TROOPS. Just at dark General Torry’s troops made their appear- ance on the east bank of the river, directly abreast of Big Island, and those of General Cox's division on the west bank, further down, and in the vicinity of Fort An- derson. General Cox, on learning of the fall of Fort Anderson, had directed his march in that direction in- stead of towards Wilmington, They came out on the baak of the river lato in the day, Likving failed to tnter- cept any of the flying rebels, TRANSFER OF GENEKLAL AMBS’ DIVISION TO THR RAST SIDR OF ‘THR RIVER, As write every available vessel is at work ferrying General Ames’ sion from the westeru bank of the river to Terry's present position on the eastern bank. This position can scarcely be more than six miles from Wilmington, in a direct course, and but two or three railes from the outer defences of that city. The move- inent of Ames’ division to the reinforcement of General Terry is tadicative of General Schoticll’'s design to press forward on the east bank of the river. It also restores to the immediate command of Gonoral Terry, intact, the far-famed band of heroes who so gloriously accomplished the reduction of Fort Fisher. It is more than probable that the baglo will sound, at early daylight to-morrow morning the advance on Wilmington, Jost in the bend of tho river at Dramtree Point the rebels have a tine of very formidable obstructions, which have beon strengthened quite recently by the sinking of a largo Bloamer againat them, the two amoke stacks and Whool Lo.sog of Which, boing yisibio from our prosout position, indicate her great size. By moving up the river about half # mile a good view of Wilmington is secured, and three or four steamers are seen in the river. RECEIVING IHS THANKS OF CONGRESS AND THR NEW TORK LNGELATURE. Ta the enormous batch of mail received by the Admi- ral to-day—the first received in the flet fora week past— the usual great number of congratulatory letiors were found, and also a letter from the President of the United States, transmitting, elegantly engrossed on parchment, the vote of thanks passed by Congress to the Admiral, his officers and soldiers; and also one from Governor Fenton, transmitting tho thanks of the State of New York, passed by the Legislature of that State. The Pre- sident’s letter Is as jie — ECUTIVE Mamstoy, Feb. 10, 1865. Sie—It is made my weet duty to ‘enclose herewith the joint roaaltiony approved January 24, 1865, tendering the thanks of ress to yourself, the Siicors and and men under your command, for their , falltry and good con- duct in the re of Fort Fishor, and through you to pil who participated in that brilliant and decisive victor, under your command. Vers Tepeuls, i Rear Admiral Daviv D. Porter, Atlantic blockading squadron. ry PUBLIC RESOLUTION—NO. 7. A resolution tendering the thanks of Congress to Rear Admiral David D. Porter, and to the officers, se C~ cers, seamen and marines under his command, for PS pepiih and good conduct in the recent capture of fort and House req tion to Admiral Porter, and through him to the officers, seamen and marines under his command. ‘Approved January 24, 1865, It is a noteworthy fact that this is the fourth time dur- ing the present war that Admiral Porter has been the recipient of the thanks of Congress—first, with Farragut, for the capture of Forts Jackson and St. Philip and the city of New Orleans; next, with General McClernand, for the reduction of Arkansas Post; again, with Grant, for the grand Vicksburg triumph, No other officer in the national sorvice has won and received so frequent and numerous marks of official approbation and commenda- tion, General Terry is made the recipient of a similar mark of appreciation for the Fort Fisher affair. Governor Fenton’s communication runs as follows:— Sears ov New Yor«, Executive Deranrannt, "ALBANY, Feb. ‘11, 1865. To Rear Adm'ral Davy D. Porter, United States Navy:— S1x—In compliance with the request of the Legislature of the State I have the honor to transmit to you a copy of a resolution of thanks passed by that body on the 9th inst., for the skill and pear displayed by yourself and associates in the bombardment and capture of Fort Fisher, At the same time I must, in my own behalf, add my cordial endorsement of the Tesolution as well a8 my imony in honor of your conduct and the invaluable service then rendered to our (ate Ae by. ey Lo pa achievement. Respectfully, yours, EN] Concurrent resol.ition of thanks to Rear naan David D. Porter, Major General Albert H. Terry and others:— Resolved, That the thanks of the Legislature, repre- senting the people of the State of New York, are hereby tendered to Rear Admiral David D. Porter, and to Major General Alfred H. Terry, and the oflicera and men of their respective commands, for the skill and gallantry displayed in the bombardment and capture of Fort Fisher—an achievement which adds to the renown already won by both branches of the service, and admin- isters a heavy Dlow to the alroudy staggering rebellion, Resolved, That his Excellency jovernor is hereby respectfully requested to transmit : copy of the above re- solution to each of the above officers named therein. Srare or New Yore, 1s Assuwnty, Feb. 9, 1565. Resolved, That the Assembly concur in the passage of the foregoing. By order, J. B. CUSHMAN, Clerk, whe f tATB OF iw Yon, 1% bqeronl Jan. 3, i t ¢ foregoing resolution was duly puased. By order of the fonates JAS. TERWILLIGER, Clerk, The discrepancy in the name of General Terry occur. ring in the title and body of the above is found in the Original, and is doubtless the fault of the engrossing clerk. The name is correctly spelled in the body of the reso- lution, Our Special Washington Despatch, Wasurnatow, Feb. 26, 1865, Additional advices received here to-night from Wil- mington represent that most of the cotton stored there had been removed before its capture by our forces. About five thousand bales had been found hid away in collars and wususpected places, It was generally be- lieved that there were still some ten thousand bales stored away within the limits of the town, It is also ropresonted that @ much stronger Union feeling manifested itself among tho inhabitants than was anticipated. Many of the resi- dents volunto-red their services to furnish information and point out the places where cotton and other valuable goods and supplies bad been hidden. Scarcvly any of the scowling visages herctoforo so prominent in other Southern cities wore met with hore, and none of them among the females. The ladies of Wilmington, especi- ally, are said to bo intensely Union in their sentiments, and receive our gallant troops with all the courtesy and cordiality appropriate to their situation. REBEL ACCOUNTS. Cotton in Wilmington. From the Raleigh Confedorate.} ‘We hear incidentally, from such authority as we can- not doubt, that at least fifteen thousand bales of cotton aro now hid away in the town of Wilmington, waiting the advent of Terry. If this be #0, we hope our authori- ties will ferret it ont and take care that a digrare similar to that which has befallen Savannah does not happen in Wiltuington. Let the enemy who conceals cotton be reconnoitred. Lot him be discovered before he gets across the peninsula and intrenches. It is easior to attack him on the march than behind intronchments. These cotton hiders are as sharp as Yankees, und gee who are dexpatched to watch them will have to kee their oyos open and roport, of the tieves will be fount to have worked thoir way across our flank. Not a bale Of cotton should the enemy find in Wilmington, oe’ ets there. 0 if he If we cannot save it, at least do not let ‘ankees _ it. NEWS ‘FROM ‘WASHINGTON. Wilden Feb, 26, 1966. THK BUSINESS REFORE CONGRESS, The largo amount of business necessary to be trans acted will engage the attention of Congress both day and night until the adjournment, without affording an oppor tunity for the doliberation which their importance de. mands, The larger number of public bills, including those necessary for the support of the army andthe navy, have not yet become laws, and the Amenda tory Enrolment bill ‘is still ponding. The Indian Appropriation bill is yet, with other important: measures which have passed the House, to be acted upon by the Senate, including the Bankrupt and the Ilnois and the Niagara Falls Ship Canal bills, These, however, will, according to present appearances, fail to be favorably acted om by tho Senate, for want of tima The House too have yet to consider various important bills whieh originated im the Senate, Tho Amendatory Internal Revenue bill is the order for to-morrow in the Sonate, and this will, with amendment, be returned to the Honse, The latter body will, however, probably consider the Arkansas and Louisiana election cases, the Committee on Elections having heretofore reported fa- vorably on receiving representatives from these States. It ta matter of wonder to gentlemen familiar with Con- gressional affairs how even the necessary public bills can be passed within the short remaining time of the pro- sent Congress. The Six Hundred Million Loan bill has not been considered in either house, ORDER IN REGARD TO NAVAL ENLISTMENTS. ‘The Socrotary of the Navy has issued the following order:— GENRRAT. ORDER—NO, 48, Navy Drranrment, Fob 14, 1965. Commanding officers will not permit agents or brokers to Vinit vessels of the navy for the purpose of inducing men to sign certificates or claims for bounties or credit’, nor will they certify to such papers, nor «ign them; but refer the nner ts or the claims of the men to the Hurean of Equipment and recruiting. Any person serving on board a jy vessel who shall receive a cireular or notice from any broker or other person inviting his co-operation in procuring eredite shall imme. diately deliver snch circular of paper ts the com. Maading officer, under penalty of court martial. When @ person enlists on board, and ts a county of town agent, exhibiting authority ax such to pay tlw local bounty which such credit is to receive, a Feceipt may be given the any! Reunea by the com listment, with amount of which credited, and whet tod, ag volunteer or substitute, and fameteety reported to the Bureau of WEI LES, Secretary of the Navy, THe “BLUFF GAME" OF THK REBELS, ‘The declaration of the rebel pap ns that preparations have been made to moet and check Sherman is received here as conclusive prgif that be will meet with no serious opposition in his present progross through South Carolina. It is noticeable that the evacuation of Fort Anderson ‘and the capture of Wilmington havo uot yet beon noticed in avy Richmond papes. RICHMOND. LARGE INFLUX OF DESERTERS. AVERAGE ONE HUNDRED PER DAY. South Carolina Troops at the | Our Bermads Ha Head. MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 1865. ‘They also say that most of the guns have been removed from the works, which will acoouat for the firtog from their battorics for the past day or two. They say one or two guns are left in each fort to keep up appearances. I give the report for what it is worth. A SHOTTED SALUTE IN HONOR OF THR OCCUPATION OF WIL- MINGTON. 5 known artists—Madam Varian, Teresa Carreno, Mr. George Simpson, the excellent tenor, and Mr. Hoffman, pianist. ‘The grand monthly concert of the National Pianoforte Association and Conservatory for Musical Instruction will take place on Saturday evening, the 4th of March. Mr. Edward Mollenhaver, th ii known violinist, e report of the occupation of Wilmington was re- | principal of the institute. He is well aud ably supported Pres in the army today. A shotted salute was fred at four P. M. in honor of the event. The New Jersey brigade band of the Sixth corps sere- naded Gen. Parke at the headquarters of the army this evening. dired (Va.) Correspond- ence. Came Ove Hunprep anp Fourta Penxevivanta Vos, Dsrences or Baxauva Huypren, Va., Feb. 21, 1865: The statement that the attack on the picket line of The Rebel General Lee Gone | these defonces on the morning of the 16th instant was South to Direct Operations Against Sherman. General Joe Johnston in Command of the Bebel Army at Richmond, bo, do. ke, Mr. 8. Cadwaltader’s Despatch. FHM ARMY QUIETLY AWAITING DEVELOPMENTS. The foverish feeling of anxiety and expectation that has pervaded the Army of the Potomac for a few days past is mow dying out. All are settling down into the | and sensible opinion that as the rebels are in no condition to | during the attack of attack with any hope of success, they are too shrewd and sensible to throw away lives they can illy spare on such | tably woul Orrx Poor, eb. 26, 1885. | vate altied repulaca by the colored troops 1# incorrect. Thore has ‘not been a colored soldier in the defences of Bermuda Hundred since the Ist of January. The attack was made upon that part of the line picketed by the One Hundred and Fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers (a voteran regiment), and was gallantly repulsed without loss on our part. The following is the congratulatory order issued by the brigade commander: GENERAL ORDER—NO. 6. Heapqu: Finst BriGapx, Provisional Division, KEMUDA ml Va, Feb. 18, here The Colonel commanding derires to agen oo he notice good ponduct of of the troops under his command the Co. B, 104th venuiyTvania; Wim ‘in. James Erwin, Co. B, 104th Eastburn, Co. B, 104th Feineraais Mer B, ania; Jeremiah 8, Hulick, Co. B, 1 Ponnaylvania; Win. H. Smith, Co. ltt Pomnayl- venia; Martin W. are ae Pennsylvania, Grimes, Co. Pennaylvan'a, who, the enomy on our lines in the night, the 16th to the 16th inst,, hold thelr posta against freatly superior numbers, thus saving lives thet inevi- |d have been lost had the enemy been allowed ‘a forlorn attempt. The enemy has been in commotion | poys the abatis and rifle pits in wit front, for nearly a week. Troops have been moving from point to point along the line. Deserters declared Leo was in- tending to attack and surprise us. His growing despera- tion would be some apology for the venture. There was, then, some reason for the vigilance manifested by us for der of ‘M, HEINE, ., Comd’g Brig. WV, AA ALG. REBEL ACCOUNTS. Col. 108d N, Y. V. H. Burivon, First Liout., dist N. @ woek past to thwart the execution of any such purpose | General Grant Massing Troops on the were it seriously contemplated, REBEL TROOPS MOVING FKOM PETERSBURG TO RICHMOND. Yosterday soveral cars passed from Petersburg to Rich- mond loaded with troops, which gave life to the old re- port of rebel evacuation. The popular expectation is astonishingly ardent and widespread. Scarcely an officer or private can be found in the army who does not so firmly believe they will shortly evacuate that he is ex- cocdingly credulous on the question and willing to believe the wildest rumor. CONTINUED DESERTIONS OF THE REBKL SOLDIERY. Desertion has really become fearful from the rebel army. Nothing like it was ever known before. Since Sherman's triumphal march into South Carolina and the fall of Charleston the troops of that State seem for the first time to have grown disheartened, and are now coming to us in as great, if not greater, numbers than any others. One entire company came in on the Sixth corps? front yesterday morning, after daylight, bringing their arms and equipments, and individuals straggle in at all hour. We are receiving over a hundred per day regularly. THK REBKL GENERAL LEE CONE SOUTH—JOHNSTON COMMANDS AT RICUMOND, The Richmond papers state that Gen. J. E. Johnston has been assighed to a command by Gen. Lee, but singu- larly, for them even, omit to state what it is or where he will servo. On the 23d they intimated that his succeed- ing Beaurogard in command of the army in front of Sherman was a foregone conclusion, It is now apparent from other sources of information that quite a different disposition has been made of him, An escaped Union soldier from a Richmond prison brings the news that Johnston is incommand of the rebel army defending Richmond, and that Lee started South two days ago to join the forces fader Beauregard, to take the immediate direction of affairs if nesessary, and to determine the Rebel Right. (From the Richmond Sentinel, Feb. 24.] It is reported that the enemy was again massing on the Vaughn road, the scene of the last advance; but if such was the fact the rain of yesterday will provent any ac- tive operations for some time to come. The Petersburg Express says that trains conveying troops were seen marina to City Point on Weduesday, AMUSEMENTS, Approaching Close of the Seaxon—Gay and Brilliant Scenes—Balls, Parties, Masque- rades, Germans, Concerts, Operas, Lectures, The Liederkranz and Turnverein—Literary and Musieal Entertainments, oy &e. &e The regular season of winter amusernents, for wliich the motropolis is everywhore famous,,is now gradually drawing to a close, and will presontly disappear alto- gether with the advent of balmy spring, the return of green leaves to the trees and singing birds to their forest homes, The winter has been a long and severe one; but it has passed away joyously and merrily, notwithstand- ing the great amount of poverty which has needed relief. In fact, the closing season has been one of the most bril liant that has been seen in this city for many years, ‘The clash of arms and stern alarms of battle have been kept far from our borders; and in the full enjoyment of pro- found security the poople have given way to mask and goneral features of operations in that quarter in any | mirth and dance and revelry. There has scarcely been a event. There is very little doubt of this being true. Heavy operations may certainly be expected within the next fow weeks. ABRIVAL OF GENERAL SINGLETON AND JUDGE GUGHES AT GENERAL GRANT'S HEADQUARTERS, General Singleton and Judge Hughes arrived at Gene- It ts understood that they are en route to Richmond by permission of the President to make one more attempt to bring about an | gach in their own way to the universal carnival. ral Grant's headquarters this morning. honorable peace. ‘The attempt may be made in good faith, but noone possessing the least practical knowledge of the subject expects anything but mortification and com plication to result from such missions, The confederacy is materially stronger to-day for the recent peace fase at Fortress Monroe. So it will be from all ‘COROT: until other battles have been fought and other feclings and inclinations born of victory or defeat, Mr. 8. T. Bulkley’s Despatch. Hranqvarrers, Any ov Tir Porowac, Fob, 24, 1865. %} ARTILLERY PRACTICR, Artillery practice has been indulged in quite exten sively for the past two days between the Ninth corps, occupying the line of works immediately in front of Potersbury, and the enemy. It comimonced yesterday morning on the extreme right of the line, in G Wilcox’s division, and continued for several hours. 7 First Connecticut battery was engaged on our side, aad directed their Gre at Fort Chestertield, situated on the opposite side of the Appomattox river. The fring was exceedingly accurate on both sides. We could see with perfect distinctness our shell ex plode within the enemy's works, while their own was no less aceurate, Our Ic wounded. The los# of the enemy must have been equally large. This morning the firing was resumed, but upon another part of the line. Forts Sedgwick and Morgan were the recipients of the enomy’s fire to-day. The firing on their part was not equal to that of yesterday, most of the shells explo too high to do any datuage. IMPORTANT MOVEMENTS ON FOOT BY THE KRMELA It is surmised by many that the ivcrowsed activity on the part of the rebels for the past fow days is to cover some important movement. Reliuble informavion hae boen received 90 many times of the evacuation of Peters burg that we are very skeptical on that point; but that movement is on foot there is burdly room for doubt, We learn from various sources that a large part of the rebel army have beca under marching orders for a number of days, and that portion have already left to reinforce Beauregard, General Lee will be compelled to make 4 move of some kind very soon, or he will find himself without an army. Desertions continue to increase instead of decreasing, and the class of men pow coming in are superior in in telligence and dreas to any I have previously seen. Not Joss than one hundred havo been reported at the head. quarters of the Provost Marshal during the last twenty- four hours, Of these a large proportion bring in their arms and equipments, for which they are paid a liberal price in greenbacks, Many of the cavalry bring in horses algo, To-day fifty-seven of the chivalrous sons of South Carolina came over in @ body. They style themselves “peace commissioners," and say that as Jeff, Davie wae unsuccessful in establishing peace for thom they have come over to try it for themselves. Each and all con- firm the story that to every one who enters our Lincs thore are ten who desert to the rear, At this rate, without fighting another battle, the rebel army would be dissolved in two months. A DESRATER ReCrITED, George Maynard, of the Forty sixth New York Volun. toors, sentenced to be hung at noon to-day for devertion, has beon respited by the President, Preparations were all completed to carry the sentence, execution near the headquarters of the Firat divie Lb corps, when 3 Was seven men killed and the order arrived giving the prisoner leave of life. PREHONAL, Brigadier Goneral Patten is in command of the Ninth corps during the obsence of General Parker, temporary commander of the Army of the Potomac. General Griffin is In command of General Patton's division. EY RCTS OF THY LATE STORM. ‘The a vore rain storm of yesterday and last night how loft the ronds in a terrible condition, Riding for ie wholly out of the question, and only the most pres#ing necessity could induce one to move from one part of the army t ihe other COMPLETION OF TH RAILROAD TO HATERS RUN. To morrow the now branch railroad, fro House, at Warren station, to the vieinity of Hatcher's ran, will be completed and in ronning ARKIVAL OF MORK DRSERTRY RH nURY IS TO TM RYACUAT Singe writing the above another batch of deverters has arrived. They report th citizens of Petersburg notice that they must remove their tobacco and stores of diferent kinds within four order, ee THAT Permit Fen. Lee haa given the days (rom to-day, propacatory Ww evaouating tho viace, | wt Niblo’s Saloom, Sg Will bo pamaled Uy several Wolk | Gig, i n’ght during the whole winter which has not been cele brated by some grand gala entertuinment, The numor- ‘ous social clubs and societies that exist here—and thei name is legion—bave all had an opportunity of hav- ing their annual reunions, when friends long parted meet together, aud for one night at least, bask in the sunshine of each other's association and friendship. Our citizens of every clime and nationality have contributed We have had balls, and routs, and masquerades; grand fancy dress demonstrations and sober quadrille parties; public banquots and private dinner parties; operas of the bigh- est order and concerts of more or less pretension; public performances in our numerous theatres and private thoatricais in superabundance; poacefit folks have de- liberately gone to ruilitary balls, while military balls (not peaceful ones by any menns) have gone to people who loast desired them, and in many cases have deprived them of life or limb, In short, such a gay and festive time we Imve rarely enjoyed. Nor are our people yet exhausted in their means of rational amusement, If the earlier part of the season was brilliant, its close will be more magnificent still, The occupation of the skaters is about gon, but there are yet several balls, germans and other parties to come olf, so that Old Winter shall go out in « blaze of glory. In order to keep our readers fully posted as to the gay things yet im store for them, we 4s ni soe brief Qotices of amusoments that are ann nd to take place dusing this and the coming month Virst, we have the geand charity ball, forthe benoft of the Nursery and Child's Hospital, to take place this (Mon. day) evening, at the Academy of Music, in this city. ‘There is no doubt whatever that this will be a big thing— ver magne ext, a8 Terence hath tt—and no mistake, The ancients used to judge of Hercales by the size of his foot—er pede Hercul-um—and, judging by the big curd and the long fist of managers of this ball, it will be au im menve althir, On Tuesday evening next we are to have the annoal ball of the Young Bachelors’ Clob, This affvir te to “come off’ at the Everett Roome, corner of Thirty fourth street and Broadway, One curions feature of thi that the bachelors generally make matebes at th nual gatherings, and rumor says thas this is thy why they are always «0 crowded with “ladies fair." ‘This evening our German fellow citizens will also give one of their inimitable entertainments, in the shape of the Masken Ball dex New Yorker Turnverring, geholten am 21 Februar, in City Awembly Rone, anfang 8% nbr. After the Liedérkranz and Arions, this is the most famous Gorman fancy dtees ball, and it will be doubtlgse just as successful as it was last year. The New York Siate Volunteers’ Inetitute also give an entertainment this evening, for the benefit of the sons of deceased soldiers. It will take place ab the Cooper fusti- tute, and is expected to be a fine alfair, On Friday evening, the Sd of March, the annual ball of the Seventy-ninth regiment (Highlanders) will take place, at the City Assembly Rooms, ‘This is usually one of the moet unique and pleasing entertainments of the season, the Scottish lad picturesque costume, The proceeds are to be devoted to the relief of the widows, orphans, and disabled soldiers of the regiment. While speaking of military balls, we may mention that the ball of Company B, Gertuan Horse, First regiment National Guard, took place last Monday evening, at the City Assembly Rooms, The display wax beantiful, and the whole a‘fair very successful, Captain Reise com mands the company yrritania, nob to be entirely eclipsed by New York, will be the scene this evening of a grand fancy dress ball, to be given by the “Original Seventeen,” at Morrisania Hall. The village has been astir for upwards of a month, tuaking extensive preparations for thin grand «plunge; and, judging from appearances, we have not the slightest hesitation in saying that the affair promives to be one of the most recherche tw of the season, The gen te 6 aflair deserve a great deal of credit for the carefal manner in which they have carried out the arrengements, No person will be admitted unlews in full faney costume, and every gentleman must bring a lady, We trust thet our “country cousins’ will enjoy thomselyos iinmensoly at the annval reception this even jug of the “Original Seventeen. Turning from the festive da will glanee at the musical treats still reraalning to be enjoyed :— ITALIAN OPERA—BENEPIT OF MYR. ZUGCHT A grand extra night of opera will bo given ta Brooklyn having char this evening, when Mme, Zuechi takes her bonetit | Aynani will be sung with ite original vast, for tho only time, we believe, In that city, Am immense house, of course, may be expected, the opora itself, whieh ty a favorito one, and the pleasant incident of Mme Zucehi'e benefit combining to render the occasion most aitractive, CAMILLA URSO'S CONCERT. This evening Misa Camilla Urso gives her tast concart by some of the most distinguished artists of the city. This concert.will be an admirable affair in every respect. LITERARY. The first of « series of literary evenings begins at Clinton Hall to-night, when Mr. J. J. Spear will read selections from the English and American pocts. Mr, Alfred Burnett will also appear at Dodworth Hail, for the first time, thisevening. His performances are Said to be quite original. In concluding these brief notices we must mention thas Professor Benjamin Silliman will deliver an address a6 the Cooper Institute on Monday evening, the 6th of March, for the benefit of the United States Christian Com- Mission, The subject chosen relates to the discovery and development of the mineral and other resources of Calt- fornia, and the newer States and Territories of the United States. This is a practical question, and will be well handled by the learned lecturer, Thus, there is plenty of amusement—operatic, theatri- cal, lyric, literary, and of every other form—still remain- ing for the delectation of the public, Let all, therefore, go in with a will and enjoy themselves to the full of their bent while the winter season goes slipping by. NEWS FROM HAVANA, Our Havana Correspondence. Havana, Feb. 21, 1866. Arrival of the Prince de Polignac—The Autherilies @& Matamoros Refuse to Recognize the United States Cmaut— A Blockade Running Feat—Arguelles Ouce More—Spen- cer's Annual, dc., dc. The Evening Star arrived rather unexpectedly about six o'clock last evening, and leaves for New York this forenoon. The steamer Mexico, from Matamoros, arrived og Sua- day, bringing, among other passengers, the Princo de Polignac, who, with two officers of his staff, is on his way to Kuropo—some say to get married, Ho wears the uniform of a major general of the reb ang looks quite the soldier, as he has shown hi Trade between Matamoros and United Stat it appears, is about to stop, in consequence of some dif culty between the imperial authorities and United States: Consul at that port, the latter having been accredited to the government of Juarez, and Gen ral Mejia refusing te acknowledge the commission. The Consul has, there- fore, ahut up shop and retired. If trade should be stopped between there and the United Statés Havana will benofit greatly, and our merchants aro not very sorry for what has happened. Our old acquaintance, Commodore Leon Smith, left Havana for Galveston, on board the steamer Wren, some ten days since, and when nearing the Texax coast’ was perceived and pursued by the blockading ficet. So close was the pursuit and so sharp the firing that the crew took to the boats and deserted the steamer, leaving captain and our friend, the Commodore, to do the oe they could. Nearly ¢ undred shots were fired at the unhappy Wren, three of them passing clean through her; nevertheless, the bold Commodore stood his ground, and took the vessel into Galveston. Plucky, eb? Another steamer, whose npame is not unknown to you, the Will-o’.the Wisp, wus not so lucky. She ran aground near Galveston bar, and was soon knocked to pieces by the guns of the blockading fleet, The above items constitute all the news brought us by the Mexico, except those of a purely commercial charac- ter, one of these being the existence at Matamoros of @ pretty considerable stock of cotton. Local Havana news of any interest ia very scarce. E find it slated in one of this morning's papers that Cole- nel Arguclies, whose name must be still fresh in your memory, has requested to be removed from the Morte Castle to the common prison of Havana, which request has been complied with Spencer's Annual Report for 1864 1s just out. Your merchants are too fainiliar with Mr. Spencer's pubdlica- tions to need a word from me to commend them. If @ word of praise were permitted where pralze is needless, Lwould para remark that, of latey the duily Commercias Bulltin, pudlished by Mr. Spencer, appears to me to bave much improved in utility and interest... I wish bie an increased subscription lst. ‘The Morro Castle arrived early th Exchange on New York iitty- Accident on the Hudson River Rafiroad. ONK MAN FATALLY AND ANOTHER SERIOUSLY IN- SURED, Povcucerrsr, Feb. 26, 1865. This morning about two o'clock, as the locomotive Pacific, on the Hudson River Railroad, was nearing Hast- ings, coming north, she ran intoa sand obstruction whiem had sl'd down, upsetting the engine and breaking it te pieces, The engineer, Cicero Phelps, of this city, was dangerously hurt, and cannot recover, The firemam, Theodore McCoy, was badly cut in the head, No traia was attached tot the « eng i morning. discount. The Missourt Bi of RI St. Low, ‘The bill of rights adopted by the mitteo of the Whole was rejected on the final vote before the Convention, and a substitute introduced. nts. National Celebration of Un Victories on the 4th of March, at Union Square, at Three o’Clock. The Committee of Arrangements for the proposed cele- bration will be in constant se.sion at the Astor House, room» Nos, 18 and 19, during the week. All communica- tions relating to the military parade, civic procession, telegraphic despatchos from other cities, and othee matters relating to the active details of the celebration, may be addressed to Colonel Frank E. Howe, Secretary of the Committee of Arrangements. Civic societies, public bodies, private manufacturing and industrial ea tablishments, with their e: ns of trade and comméroe, are respectfully invited to unite in this patriotic demon- stration, The workingmen of New York always form @ marked feuture on such occasions, and it is hoped thas they will participate iv celebrating the triumphs of the army and navy of the Union, Private citizens, mounted, are invited to form a part of the procession, under sual direction as may be designated. | By order of the Genorai Committee, MOSES TAYLOR, Chairmaa. 8S. B Cuntexoes, ) Sin eau +} Seoretarten MAILS FOR . EUROPE, The Capture of Fort Andersen id Occa- pation of Wilmington—Progress of Gen. Sherman—Affairs in Front of Rieh- mond—Late News from Central Amert- ca, Mexico, Cuba, &e. . The Cunard mail steamship Furopa, Captain Moodie, willl ave Rosjon on Wednesday for Liverpool, ‘The mail« for Europe will close in this city ut a quarter. past one and at balf past five o'clock to-morrow after- noon. The New Yorn Hreave—Fdition for Kurope—will be published at ten o'clock to-morrow morning. hingle copies, in wrappers, ready for mailing, six coats. Prizes C hea all Legalized Lotteries, Drawings sent. TE, Broker's offie, No. 176 Broadway. Royal Havana Lottery Prizes ee fn gold. 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