DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA]
January – April 1864 

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 3, 1864, p. 1, c. 1
           
“The Proudest Words.”—Writes a Chaplain in the force sent from the Army of Northern Virginia to the Army of Tennessee:
           
[“]When the din of war shall have died away and the sweet notes of peace shall be heard through our happy and redeemed country, the proudest words any lips may utter are, “I served as a private through the fierce struggle for Southern Independence. [”] 

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 3, 1864, p. 1, c. 3

New Shoe Store
and
Gaiter Manufactory
L. Louis & Co.,
Broad Street.
Opposite Planters’ Hotel,
Augusta
, Georgia
. 

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 3, 1864, p. 1, c. 4

Blankets for the Soldiers.

            A liberal friend had given me fifty blocks of Thread to exchange for Blankets for the soldiers.  I offer one block of 5 lb Factory Thread for a blanket, the blankets so raised to be sent to the needy soldiers in Tennessee.
                                                                                                                                                                     
R. H. Vickers, Ag’t
                                                                                                                                                                     
Geo. Relief & Hosp Asso’c.
                                                                                                           
                                                       Washington Geo. 

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 3, 1864, p. 1, c. 6

Blankets for the Soldiers.

                                                                                                                                           Office of the Ga. Relief and Hospital Asso’n.}
                                                                                                                                           
December 7th, 1863.}
To the People of Georgia —
           
In view of the fact, now well ascertained, that our soldiers cannot be supplied during the present winter with a sufficient number of blankets, the Georgia Relief and Hospital Association, by its executive committee, have determined to try and supply this want to some extent by the manufacture of what are called comforts or comforters.  These can be made out our thinnest factory cloth, padded with bats of carded cotton, and quilted.  The cloth should be as light as possible, and the cloth not too thick, otherwise the article will be heavy for transportation.  Even with these precautions they may not be easily transported by the soldier, and may be soon lost; still we hope that with the increased experience of our troops, this may not be an invincible inconvenience; and that at all events, they may secure warmth for the present winter.  If no more be effected, this result will amply repay the cost and trouble.
 
           The undersigned have been appointed a committee for the purpose of invoking the aid of our people in this work.  We have already sought and found the assistance of the ladies of Augusta and its vicinity, whose energy during this unhappy war has been as untiring as their patriotism is ardent.  These ladies, according to their custom, have responded to our call with an alacrity which has inspired our hearts with thankfulness and our minds with increased zeal and which encourages us to call upon patriotic citizens, especially the women, in all parts of our State, and invite them, wherever such cloth and cotton batting can be procured, to unite with us in this enterprise, this effort to protect our gallant defenders from the cold of the winter's night.  The officers of the Augusta factory in a spirit of the most liberal patriotism, have offered to furnish us with the materials upon very low terms, and in such quantities as will enable us if all will assist who can do so, to send forward to the army several thousands of these comforts in a week or ten days.  Other factories in our State will do the same, we doubt not, if application be made.  The articles when finished, can be sent to our rooms in this city, and will be immediately forwarded to the troops.  A vigorous effort on the part of our people can thus almost entirely remedy the grievance which we desire to remove, certainly among our own soldiers.  Past experience teaches us not to doubt but that this effort will be made elsewhere in Georgia with energy like to that which inspired it here.
           
The cloth used by us here is thinner than shirting.  Shirting will do--and is cut seven and a half or eight feet long by six feet wide.  It would be better if dyed some color, but we have no time to wait for this to be done.|
            All packages sent to be forwarded by the association should be addressed W. H. Potter, General Superintendent, Augusta, Georgia.
                               
                                                                                                                                     H. Starnes,}
                                                                                                                                                                    
C. J. Jenkins,} Committee.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 3, 1864, p. 2, c. 2
           
Outrages at Elizabeth City.—The Raleigh State Journal says it has the best authority for the following statement of the treatment to which the people of that unfortunate town are subjected by a portion of troops, negroes and Yankees from Beast Butler’s Department.  The death of every man, woman and child in the confederacy would be preferable to association, in any capacity, either as political equals or subjugated province, with the abolition savages who permit such barbarities.  The Journal says:
            [“] The negroes compel white women of delicacy and refinement to cook and wash for them.  In one instance we heard of a body of these negroes entering a private house and demanding dinner, which they insisted should be cooked by the lady of the house.  Whilst engaged in preparing the food for her negro guests, the scoundrels indulged in the most loathsome ribaldry, one of the, with his foot throwing the lady’s clothes over her back and shoulder, while the rest sent up loud peals of laughter!  These statements are surely enough to stir the blood of those who would go back to a fellowship with a nation of whites who cannot only permit this, but encourage it.   

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 5, 1864, p. 2, c. 7
Summary:  Concert Hall—“Ingomar;” “P. P., or The Man and the Tiger”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 6, 1864, p. 1, c. 3
           
Beauregard Skirts—A hoop skirt manufactory has been established at Wytheville, Va., where the proprietors are said to be turning out an excellent article, called the Beauregard skirt.  Would not the Belle Boyd, or Emma Sansom, or some other feminine name be more appropriate.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 6, 1864, p. 2, c. 6
Summary:  Concert Hall-- “Ben Bolt;” double dance; “Spectre Bridegroom”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 7, 1864, p. 2, c. 6
Summary:  Concert Hall—“Faint Heart Never Won Fair Lady;” music; “Gale Breezely.”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 7, 1864, p. 2, c. 6
Summary:  Concert Hall on Friday—“Macbeth”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 8, 1864, p. 2, c. 2
           
Letters to Soldiers—An Incident.—the army correspondent of the Atlanta Intelligencer relates the following incident to show how welcome a letter from home is to a soldier, and how depressing it is when those at home neglect to write to him:
           
[“] I witnessed an incident yesterday going to show how welcome a letter is to the soldier, and how sad he feels when those at home neglect to write him.  As I was riding to town I heard a man on horseback hail another in a wagon, and going up, handed him a letter.  Another man in the same wagon inquired if there was no letter for him, and the reply was “none.”  It was at that moment I noted the feeling between the two men by their changed countenances.  The features of one lit up with pleasure as he perused the epistle in his hand—doubtless the letter of some dear wife or mother—and as he read it, a smile of joy would illumine his weather beaten face.  This was happiness.  It was an oasis on the desert of his rough life of danger and suffering, and no doubt was welcomed by him as the dearest gift a relative could send.  With the other the opposite effect was observed.  As soon as the word “none” had passed the lips of the man addressed, the look of anxiety with which the question was put faded away, and an appearance of extreme sorrow could have been seen plainly stamped on his features, while a feeling of envy at this more fortunate comrade was very apparent.  This was unhappiness.  The song of hope that had illuminated his heart when he inquired if there was any letter for him, had died away, and a feeling of loneliness and regret at the neglect of those at home took possession of him.  Happy are they who have homes and loved ones to hear from!  While it is the cruelest of all neglect not to write to those relatives in the army, if it makes them sad and unhappy, how much more must those feel whose homes are in possession of the enemy, and they cannot hear from their relatives.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 8, 1864, p. 2, c. 4
           
The Present Appearance of Vicksburg.—A correspondent of the Philadelphia Inquirer, writing from Vicksburg, gives the annexed account of the present appearance of that city:
           
[“] Situated as an amphitheatre, Vicksburg rises gracefully from the water, the tall spire of its Court House looking majestically down upon the minor edifices below it, while on the bluffs back of it, to the north and south of it, are fortifications bristling with artillery.  To look at the city from the door, a stranger not knowing of the famed siege, would not at first see that any harm had been done, but, by the aid of a good glass, the marks of shot and shell are visible on nearly every building, notwithstanding the efforts being made to patch them.  A shell hole, made by a fifteen inch projectile, may be seen on the roof of the Court House, which crushed entirely through the building and was found on the floor below in fragments.  The windows of many houses have not an entire sash in them. The eaves and corners of houses are knocked out, door steps are broken by shells, doors are minus of pannels [sic], limbs of trees are scattered about in reckless confusion.  The marks of street barricades yet remain; the caves where the women and children hid themselves during the terrible storm of battle, which waged furiously for six weeks, still remain, some of them alas! having fallen in, burying in their ruins the aged and helpless.  Mourning habiliments meet one at every corner telling of the death of near relatives and loved ones.  Back of the fortifications lines of graves of friend and foe cover the remains of graves of brave men who sleep the sleep which knows no waking.  Such are the remembrances of the siege of Vicksburg
.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 8, 1864, p. 2, c. 6
Summary:  Concert Hall—“Macbeth”; to conclude with an Olio—“ France I Adore Thee!”; dance, La Esmeraldo  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 9, 1864, p. 2, c. 6
Summary:  Concert Hall—“Faint Heart Never won Fair Lady;” song “The Valiant Conscript;” melodrama “Idiot Witness”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 10, 1864, p. 2, c. 7
Summary:  Concert Hall—“Love Chase;” “P. P. or the Man and the Tiger”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 12, 1864, p. 1, c. 1
           
Mrs. Anne Johnston, who formerly resided in Cincinnati, says the Nashville Dispatch, is on trial before the Military Commission here, for acting as a rebel spy, and smuggling saddles and harness from Cincinnati into the rebel lines.  The articles were packed in barrels purporting to contain bacon, for the shipment of which permits had been regularly obtained.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 12, 1864, p. 2, c. 5
           
Musical Publications.—Blackmar & Bro., the untiring publishers of this city, are continually issuing gems of composition which will suit all manner of tastes.  They have published a neat edition of the “Monastery Bells,” “Mollie’s Dream Waltz,” “The Silver Shower,” and several other first class pieces.  They have also on their counter Mr. Hewitt’s new song of “Dixie the Land of King Cotton ”—the words by Captain Hughes, of Vicksburg.  The air is spirited and of the right character to become popular.  We advise our lady friends to give Blackmar & Bro. a call—they will find a very large and choice collection of music.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 12, 1864, p. 2, c. 7
Summary:  Concert Hall—“Macbeth;” olio “France I Adore Thee,” dance  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 12, 1864, p. 2, c. 7

Osnaburgs, Shirtings, &c.

10 Bales 4-4 Sheetings
15 Bales Hickory Stripes
20 Bales Heavy Osnaburgs
           
For sale by                                                                               Jackson & Miller.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 13, 1864, p. 2, c. 5
           
“Economy is the Road to Wealth”—How to Save Money.—Coming leisurely across Broad street, yesterday, we met a spirited friend of ours going in great haste to the back part of the city.
           
“What’s your hurry, Ned?” we asked.
           
“Going to make six dollars,” was the se[  ]ientious reply.
           
“To make six dollars?  why, how are you going to do that, Ned?”  we again asked.
           
“Why, you see,” was the reply, “Lager Bier is only fifty cents a glass to-day; and as I understand it is to be raised to one dollar a glass to-morrow, I’m a hurrying out to Charley’s to take 12 drinks of it before the advance takes place.  So you see by that operation I’ll make exactly six dollars;” saying which he passed hastily on.
           
We could not help reflecting upon the philosophy of our friend’s economy, wondering what ails the beer selling; and what our re-porter will do for his lager at $1 a drink.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 13, 1864, p. 2, c. 7
Summary:  Concert Hall—“Macbeth;” olio—“France I Adore Thee,” dance  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 14, 1864, p. 2, c. 1-2

[Special Correspondence of the Constitutionalist,]
Letter from Longstreet’s Army.

                                                                                                                                                            Camp 10th Ga. Regiment,    }
                                                                                                                                                           
Near Russellville, Tennessee,}
                                                                                                                                                           
December 31st, 1863.         }
           
Mr. Editor:  As I am lounging lazily in my cozy tent, with a cheerful fire blazing in my rude but substantially built chimney, I have concluded to while away an hour or two in writing something, however uninteresting the news may be, to yourself or others who may read what is here penned by this “isolated rebel,” who has not heard from the “old folks at home” for lo! these many weeks.  I hope, however, the mail will soon come through, bringing a host of letters and copies of the Constitutionalist. . . .
           
From Bean’s Station we proceeded to our present camp, where we are making preparations for the winter; and while we are making ourselves as comfortable as circumstances will admit, let not our friends at home be unmindful of us; let them bear in mind that while we confront the enemy and give him battle upon all occasions, we too have to contend with the bleak and chilly winds of winter.  I regret to say that we are in bad condition for a winter campaign.  Two thirds of the men composing this regiment, and in fact of the brigade are in want of that very essential article of wearing apparel—shoes, without which, at this season of the year especially, soldiers must suffer severely, as we are called upon to do our duty under any and all circumstances.  The weather is extremely cold and disagreeable, and as one of the many in the above unfortunate condition, I speak feeling on this very serious subject.  Soldiers, (and the 10th Georgia have a world-wide reputation for being such) like cavalry horses, to be effective, should be well shod. . . There is an eruption (not volcanic) in this camp which is quite prevalent, known as the “camp itch,” and very troublesome, in some instances rendering the victim “unfit for duty.”  My hands are now very much swollen from it, and is quite painful at times.  Medicine for the treatment of such cases, like shoes, is beautifully scarce, and growing “more so.”
           
Jan. 1st, 1864.—This morning was ushered in by a snow storm, and it is now falling pretty freely, otherwise things remain in status quo.   . .
   
                                                                                                                                                                                             J. W. T.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 14, 1864, p. 1, c. 2
           
A letter from a highly intelligent lady in Knoxville to Captain Shirley, dated on the 31st ult., states that “it was a great disappointment to all that Longstreet did not take Knoxville.  If he had made an attack at once he might have been successful, but he waited until they had fortified the place too strongly.  The Yankees say that Knoxville is more strongly fortified than Vicksburg ever was.  There is nothing to sell or buy, except what the sutler’s [sic] bring.  Everything is scarce and high.  I suppose the road will be opened to Nashville in a few days.”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 14, 1864, p. 2, c. 7
Summary:  Concert Hall—“The Factory Girl; or All that Glitters is Not Gold;” “Slasher and Crasher.”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 14, 1864, p. 2, c. 7

A Grand Soiree,

Will be given by Thomas Russell at Masonic Hall, on Thursday Evening, Jan. 21st, for the benefit of

Longstreet’s Corps,

To enable them to purchase Shoes, &c.
Tickets, $10 each.  To be had at the Book, Music and Jewelry Stores, and at the Hotels.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 15, 1864, p. 2, c. 2

Texas News.
[From the San Antonio Herald of Dec. 5th.]

            We hear that the whole country below us is rallying to the rescue.  Everything is put upon a war footing.  We predict that Gen. Magruder seconded by his gallant soldiers and the patriotic people of the coast counties, will give Banks, Hamilton & Co., a sound drubbing, or drive them to their ships before many weeks elapse.  Meantime is San Antonio doing all that she ought?  We fear not.  There is too much traffic and speculation among us.
           
Since the appearance of the Yankees on our coast the people of Goliad, Karnes and DeWitt have turned out most gallantly in defence of their homes—and better fighting men are not to be found in the South.  We have no doubt other counties have done as well, but we have not heard the particulars.  Should the heartless invaders get into the interior of Texas, they will meet with a reception that Jack Hamilton and Judge Davis have not led them to anticipate.  These were brave leaders when at a distance; and their uncurbed imaginations pictured out to the credulous Yankee Union sentiment in Texas and Union sympathizers by tens of thousands, that have never existed.  Now is the time to show their faith by their works.  The would-be Governor of the great State of Texas, and the renowned and patriotic Davis should lead on their deluded followers to the easy conquests they have promised them, instead of taking shelter behind negro regiments, who are sent in advance to demonstrate to Texans the beautify of the Lincoln dynasty.
           
We take the following from the Victoria Advocate of Dec. 5th:
           
Little if anything was done (at Esperanza) on Saturday, but early on Sunday morning fighting was resumed with considerable severity by the enemy, which was spiritedly replied to on our side, both from the rifle pits and from the fort.  The artillery practice on both sides is said to have admirable.  Our men during the day were obliged to retire from the rifle pits, which were then occupied by the enemy, and rifled cannon planted on the south side of the fort, which completely commanded it on that face, throwing balls with great precision into the fort.  The firing continued until dusk.  Our loss was one man killed, Booth, and two wounded.
           
Shortly before the moon rose, signals were discovered showing that a gunboat has passed the fort during the darkness, and was near Decrow’s Point. The movement completely commanded Saluria Bayou and the road to the fort, and the situation of the fort became critical.  It was resolved to evacuate and destroy it.
            The movement began at 9 o’clock, and the fort was blown up at about 11 o’clock.  We are sorry to say that the destruction of stores and munitions was considerable, as well as of heavy siege guns.  Whose the fault for building a fort in such a position, or whose the want of foresight for not providing adequate force to defend its weak points, we know not; certainly a large amount of time, labor and means has been used to little purpose.
           
Our men retired safely and without loss.  G. Onderdonk, Hobby’s regiment, one of the party sent to blow up the fort, is missing, and is probably a prisoner.  Mr. J. C. Moody, of this place, is also missing.
           
On Thursday evening information was received here that the Yankees had landed in strong force at Deckrow’s [sic] Point, and were marching across Matagorda peninsular [sic] with the presumed intention of reaching Velasco at the mouth of the Brazos.
           
Yesterday an express arrived stating that they were still below Saluria, and that two hundred tents were stretched.  Allowing ten men to each tent, this will give them two thousand men.—But we must wait further development, and in the meantime carry on the good work of preparation.
           
Victoria .—The excitement we noticed in our last issue has culminated to a point in the right direction.  We have had seven days of trial, to which the true character, the principle and the pluck of our people have been put to the severest test, and it is with pride we record it, that they have come out of the fiery trial like pure gold from the crucible.
           
According to the spirit and words of the resolutions passed last week, all the males in Victoria from sixteen and upward have been enrolled—the aged and decrepid for police duty, the able-bodied for service; and the result is a fine company of exempt volunteers, with a large reserve of others.  This is very gratifying, but a thorough system of drill and discipline should be gone into at once, to make their service effective.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 15, 1864, p. 2, c. 6
Summary:  Concert Hall—“Richelieu;” “Irish Lion”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 15, 1864, p. 2, c. 6

Wanted to Hire,

Two good Moulders
One good Pattern Maker,
One good Machinist and Engineer.
Apply to                                                                                   John D. Gray & Co.,
                                                                                                           
Columbia, Ga.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 16, 1864, p. 2, c. 6
Summary:  Concert Hall—“Ben Bolt;” double dance; “Dumb Belle”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 17, 1864, p. 2, c. 7
Summary:  Concert Hall—“Robert Macaire;” song “ France I adore thee”; “The Loan of a Lover”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 19, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
           
Lecture of Rev. C. W. Howard.—The Rev. C. W. Howard, will, on to-morrow evening, deliver a lecture at the Masonic Hall on the “Women of the Present Revolution.”  The subject is one of such attractive interest, and the lecturer so well and so favorably known to the citizens of our community, that it is unnecessary for us to do more than remind the public of the rich treat in store for all who attend.  We hope that the reverend lecturer will have a large audience, and that a liberal sum will be realized for the benevolent purpose of the Georgia Relief and Hospital Association.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [ AUGUSTA, GA], January 19, 1864, p. 2, c. 3

The Rev. Capt. C. W. Howard.
“The Women of the Second Revolution.”

            Mr. Editor.—The Lecture which is to be delivered to-night has been prepared at the instance of our Association.  It will make history.  For nearly a year, the distinguished author has been preparing this address; which whilst it will impart to us the knowledge which belongs to history, will no doubt present the pleasing grace of an attractive elocution.  For the first time during this crisis, justice will in this way be done to our woman, to whom for the elements of such success as has attended our efforts, we have been as much indebted as to our armies in the field.  It is time that this tribute was paid to their virtues, and their untiring patriotism.
           
The proceeds will be for the benefit of our Wayside Home, now greatly needing such aid.
           
                                                                                                                                   E. Starnes.
                                                                       
                                                                      Chairman, Georgia Relief & Hos’pt Ass’n. 

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 19, 1864, p. 2, c. 3
           
Condition of the Army of Tennessee.—The regular army correspondent of the Columbus Enquirer, writing from Dalton on the 9th, makes the following gratifying statement:  “In consequence of the extreme cold weather for the past two weeks, drillings in camp have ceased; fatigue parties grow slim every day; no business is carried on whatever, except what is absolutely necessary to be done; the trains arrive very irregular from Atlanta, our commissaries find it a difficult matter to keep a sufficient supply of the staff of life on hand to supply our wants.  The severity of the weather will induce many of your readers to think that the troops must necessarily suffer.
           
Such, however, is not the case.  I have yet to meet up with the first individual case of suffering in our division for the want of shoes and clothing.  In making this statement I know very well that I run afoul of and contradict the statements of nearly every army correspondent upon this subject.  My position in the ranks, with a gun on my shoulder, affords me a better opportunity of ascertaining the condition of the troops than those men who have snug quarters about the General in town.  Dalton is not a “ Valley Forge ,” nor is there much likelihood of its becoming so.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 19, 1864, p. 2, c. 6
Summary:  Concert Hall—“Robert Macaire”; “Charcoal Sketches”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 19, 1864, p. 2, c. 6

Wanted,

Twelve Negro Teamsters to drive Post Teams.  Wages for good drivers $60 per month.  Apply to
                                                                                                                                                                   
J. T. Winnemore,
                                                                                                                                                                   
Major and Quartermaster.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 20, 1864, p. 1, c. 1
           
The City Council of Macon, in order to relieve as far as possible the pressure upon the necessitous families of soldiers and upon the poor generally, growing out of the extraordinary price of provisions, have determined to establish a city store, where provisions shall be bought by wholesale at as reasonable rates as possible, and sold to consumers at prime cost and expenses.  To take charge of this business they have selected Elijah Cond, Esq., a gentleman of well known probity, and the owner of a large and commodious warehouse adapted to the business, and it will be carried on under his management, supervised by a special committee of the City Council.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 20, 1864, p. 2, c. 1

Lecture of the Rev. C. W. Howard.

            The appearance of this gentleman was greeted by a large, select and appreciative audience.  The subject—“the Women of the Present Revolution”—was handled in a masterly manner.  His remarks were chaste, eloquent, and in every way appropriate to the noble theme selected for the occasion.  He paid an eloquent and deserved tribute to the steadfast devotion and self sacrificing conduct of the women of the South, who have devoted themselves heart and soul to the great cause of Southern independence.  Speculators, extortioners, stragglers and skulkers were denounced in unmeasured terms, and held up to the contempt and scorn of our fair women as being unworthy the name of man.  The discourse was listened to throughout with undivided attention, and frequently elicited enthusiastic applause.  After the conclusion of the address a number of young ladies, assisted by a few gentlemen, sang a beautiful piece in harmony with the sentiments and views of the lecture.  We regret that the lateness of the hour precludes a more extended notice.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 20, 1864, p. 2, c. 2

Letter from a New Correspondent.

                                                                                                                                                                         Atlanta, Jan. 16, 1864.
. . . The war affords no topic of interest or special promise, save Gen. Morgan, whose triumphal progress back to the war-path is the current sensation of the time.  His new command is reviving the volunteer spirit which has been long at low ebb, and every train contains young men in high spirits, on their way to the point designated for the reorganization of his command.  I am not sure but recent legislation has had much to do with the exhibition of a volunteer spirit, but certain it is that Morgan’s men evince a degree of ardor and enthusiasm, suggestive of the early period of the war, and which none of our other leaders inspire.
           
On the cars from Augusta to Decatur there were quite a number, whose merry voices could be heard above the whirr and rattle of the train, and whose elastic double-quick at the supper house evinced their capacity for successful foraging.  The vigor and dash of such men will be an invaluable accession to our strength next spring, and afford cheering promise of a return of the brilliant campaigns which marked the early progress of the war.  Young men in all portions of the State are raising companies or recruits for this part of the service, and large contributions are being raised for their outfit.
           
An entertainment is to be given for this patriotic object to-night, at the Atheneum, in which Wm. H. Barnes takes a conspicuous part.  Mr. Barnes has, in connection with a select company of amateurs here, raised many thousands of dollars for objects connected with the war, and his zeal in the good work is unabated.  I observed Capt. Ellsworth, Gen. Morgan’s famous telegraph operator, selling tickets in the street, for this benefit of the command with which his name has been indelibly linked.
           
“From the front” there is nothing of importance.  Both armies appear to be securely waiting in their winter quarters for the return of better weather.  I heard a rumor to-day that the authorities of the State Road sent to ask General Johnston if he thought it advisable for the road to remove a large supply of cross ties which are now lying along the upper part of the line.  Gen. Johnston’s reply is said to have been that he considered the portion of the road now in use to be secure, and the removal of the cross ties or other property unnecessary.  I give this only as a rumor.
           
Atlanta presents more than its usual phases of the bustle and variety of busy life.  The scene as we arrived at the depot was peculiarly touching.  The air was keen, and the ground stiff with ice and frost.  As the motly [sic] throng hurried through the depot to the hotels it was heart-rending to see wounded soldiers crouched here and there under inadequate cover, waiting, perhaps, for the departure of the train which is to bear them home, perhaps, for the coming of some of the ministering angels which attend upon the Wayside House, perhaps waiting for—they know not what—simply because they have o where else to wait.  A little further, is hovering around a few coals, which faintly glimmered in the freezing wind, we observed a woman with three children, all half-clad in the off-cast rags of some inadequate charity.  The children were all screaming with cold, and their emaciated appearance told too plainly a want of food.  Handing them the little store a prudent hand had provided for the rations of the day, I proceeded to test the hospitality of one of the hotels.
           
I alluded to the busy aspects of the place.  The streets are thronged constantly—the military elements predominating.  What so many “gay and festive” men in the garb of soldiers are doing here, it is difficult to conceive.  Guards may be seen on every hand, and supposing they were on duty for some purpose, I went to the Provost Marshal and got a pass.  The guard, however, failed to discover men, and in all the throng I did not see a man halted.  I therefore concluded that guard duty in Atlanta is a complete humbug—a soft place that has been provided for some favorite corps, or an empty excuse for keeping men on duty who had better be at home.  Atlanta surely has not grown so great or so turbulent as to require an army stationed on its streets to preserve the peace.  On the contrary, every thing looks peaceable and well ordered.  True, every body is hurrying “in hot haste”—auctioneers—jump out on the pave and harrangue [sic] the passing throng on the virtues of their wares, engines whistle, drays rattle, news boys cry in clarion notes the latest editions of the city papers—papers which it is just to say evince a very high order of ability, enterprise, and independence, and a dignified tone most creditable to the profession.  In all this hurry and tumult one is prone to stop and look around him, and inquire if it be possible that an inland city of a few year’s growth, has assumed such metropolitan aspects?  So it is.
           
Business is called dull here, goods do not bring the fabulous rates that they have commanded.  I saw several horses sold at auction—all good and desirable, at prices ranging from $400 to $1000.  These horses would have brought nearly double these rates three months ago.
           
Recent advices through the lines of the enemy indicate that there is but a single corps of 15,000 men in Chattanooga, and that his main forces are scattered between Bridgeport and Stevenson, to be convenient to supplies. Flagrant outrages on all classes of people— Union as well as Secesh, are reported.  Many of them are committed by the bushwhackers in the mountains, more for purposes of plunder than from any attachment to either side.          
           
Are we making preparations adequate to the work of driving the enemy from the fastnesses of the Appalachian chain, and bringing the people in these loyal districts back under the folds of our national ensign?
   
                                                                                                                                                                                         Viator.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 20, 1864, p. 2, c. 4
           
Soiree at Masonic Hall.—A Soiree will be given at the Masonic Hall to-morrow, Thursday evening,--the proceeds of which will be appropriated to the benefit of the soldiers of Longstreet’s corp.  Distressing accounts are now being received of the clothless [sic] and shoeless condition of these brave and gallant men.  An opportunity is hereby afforded our pleasure-seeking friends to spend a pleasant evening, and to contribute to the alleviation of the suffering of our heroic defenders.  Let all who can attend.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 20, 1864, p. 2, c. 6
Summary:  Concert Hall—“Ben Bolt;” “Crossing the Line”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 21, 1864, p. 2, c. 2

Letter from Atlanta.

                                                                                                                                                                         Atlanta, Jan. 17th, 1864.
. . . The streets are thronged with men in the attire of soldiers—many of them officers—and it cannot be that so many are here by authority.  The local or Provost Guard of the city seem to have become oblivious to this stream of stragglers, and seldom interrupt them.  Atlanta is crowded with all sorts of people, and Whitehall street presents a continuous panorama of faces.  In such a crowd, all classes are represented, and yet good order is preserved, and an outward respect for law and decency maintained.  This is doubtless owing to the earnest efforts of the Mayor and Council to suppress the liquor traffic.  At a late sitting of Council various parties were fined $75 for selling liquor without license.  In consequence of this law the outward and shameless phases of intemperance are seldom seen.  Here and there a “blockade runner” wends his winding way, a tottering monument of the evils of this elicit traffic.
           
There is a complete dearth of army news, our troops being quietly “cribbed, cabined and confined” in their winter quarters.  Furloughs are being granted quite liberally, both in Johnston’s and Longstreet’s armies, and numbers may be found on every train on their way to see the loved ones at home.  I have been glad to observe little evidence of despondency or demoralization among them.  Let the people at home beware how they indulge in croaking and contaminate these heroes with the cringing spirit painfully prevalent in some of our avarice-smitten towns and cities.
           
Rumor says that few of Grant’s forces remain in Chattanooga, and that his army is scattered through the adjoining districts, on whose inhabitants they are visiting the most cruel indignities.
           
In the absence of news from the front, permit me to make a suggestion, in the name of humanity, relative to the comfort of soldiers and others.  I have recently witnessed the most heart-rending suffering for want of fires at the depots, while waiting for the arrival or departure of trains.  I this morning went in vain to each of the hotels, to warm, finding nothing but the most pitiful excuse for fires, and returned to the smoking embers in the open air near the car shed, to find a crowd of women, children, and wounded soldiers, almost freezing.  It may not be the duty of the railroads to furnish fires for the crowds always gathered here, but it would be a noble charity if they, or the State, would give the matter immediate attention.  I appeal in behalf of the hundreds of soldiers who daily wait here in these piercing winds, for the provision of some place where they can have fires, if shelter is impossible.  I am happy in hearing witness to the unremitting and kind attention of the conductors and train hands on the Georgia road.  Each car is usually well supplied with wood and water, and the soldier is made to feel that his comfort is thought of, and attended to with politeness and fidelity.  The road is proverbial for the good management of every department, and the remark is common among the soldiers who have been annoyed by delays on other roads:--“We are on the Georgia Road , and are sure to make the connection.”  The track is in good order, and well lined with wood-piles, and the cars exhibit little of the dilapidation of the times.
           
The provision for keeping war at the depot in Augusta is inadequate, but is not so much needed as here, where people are waiting at all hours for the arrival or departure of trains.
           
The recent action of Congress in reference to those having substitutes, has created a sensation here.  Several circumcised commercial patriots have left on the underground railroad, and others are checking their baggage for the same route.  In consequence, and perhaps owing to other causes, in part, goods here are somewhat easier.  There is room for a further decline.
   
                                                                                                                                                                                         Amicus.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 21, 1864, p. 2, c. 7
Summary:  Concert Hall—“Toodles;” “Milly, the Maid with the Milking Pail”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 22, 1864, p. 2, c. 7
Summary:  Concert Hall—“The Stranger;” comic song; “Slasher and Crasher”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 22, 1864, p. 2, c. 6

Cloth for Blankets.
Comforts for Blankets.

                                                                                                                                                     Office Ga. Relief & Hospital Ass’n,
                                                                                   
                                                                 Augusta, Ga., Jan. 20, 1864.
           
Through the liberality of the Augusta Factory Company, I am prepared to exchange cloth and comforts for blankets for the soldiers.  I will give fifteen yards of light 7/8 shirting for one blanket, or two comforts, large size, for three blankets.  Persons at a distance can send the blankets by Express to my address and write me their address and instructions how to send the cloth or comforts.  Here is a good chance to supply the soldiers with blankets without depriving your families of bed clothes.  Send the Blankets at once.
   
                                                                                                                                                                 W. H. Potter, Gen’l Sup’t.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 23, 1864, p. 2, c. 3
           
“God Save the South.”—Blackmar & Bro., of this city have sent us their new issue of this patriotic anthem.  This, they assure us, is the real simon pure, which so many pretenders have tried to imitate, being a copy of the original, published by Miller & Beachman, of Baltimore.  It is handsomely printed, and is highly creditable to the publishers.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 23, 1864, p. 2, c. 7
Summary:  Concert Hall—“Toodles;” “The Secret; or a Hole in the Wall”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 24, 1864, p. 1, c. 2

Home Industry.

            As the time is at hand when families are making their plans and preparations for the ensuing year, we deem it appropriate to offer a suggestion.  Much more than heretofore, should house keepers and farmers make their arrangements for meeting all their wants by home industry and enterprise.
           
It will not do to rely on importations.  Already the blockade has closed all our Atlantic ports, except Wilmington, and twenty grim steamers lie as watchers off the mouth of the Cape Fear, like so many grimalkins at a mouse hole.  We shall have no reason to be disappointed or surprised if the port of Wilmington should be closed ere many months.  Nor must we rely on our factories.—Look how the prices of their products have already ascended, until they have become unpurchasable by the multitude.  This is all according to “the laws of trade” we are told, and therefore to be approved and applauded; but a protection must be found, and it is to be found in home production.  Besides, the number of these mills have been reduced by fire, and the machinery of those that remain will not last forever.
           
A hundred reasons combine to urge upon every family to look to its own resources.  The hand card and the hand-loom and the spinning wheel, whose music is sweeter far than that of the piano, should be found everywhere.  All who can should grow their patches of flax and cotton.  All should have sheep, if but a few.  Our forests furnish dyes as various and as bright as the tints that make their foliage so glorious at “the turn of the leaf.”  With these materials, there is no reason why our ladies should not be clad in beautiful apparel, the product of their own industry and taste; while they may clothe their husbands and sons fine enough for kings.  There is not a farmer’s wife who may not easily provide clothing for all her servants, and make some to sell besides.
           
And how much more independent and happy should we all be, if thus providing for ourselves.  A pig for blockades, we might well exclaim; nor would we be any longer exposed to the extortioner’s grip.  And those eventualities of the future to which we have alluded would bring no terror to us.  Earnestly, therefore, do we advise every one to use every means and make every arrangement in his power to provide for the clothing of his family from his own resources, and thus make himself independent of manufacturers and blockaders.—Rich. Sentinel.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 24, 1864, p. 2, c. 7
Summary:  Concert Hall—“Still Waters Run Deep;” “The Rough Diamond or Cousin Joe”  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 24, 1864, p. 2, c. 7

“Reduced.”
DeLaines, DeLaines.

5000 Yards beautiful DeLaines, at $8 per yard.
                                                                                                           
G. R. Crump & Co.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 26, 1864, p. 1, c. 1

[Correspondence of the Constitutionalist.]
Letter from Charleston.

                                                                                                                                                                 Charleston, Jan. 28, 1864.
           
War intelligence from the beleaguered city presents few new phases of interest, beyond the stereotyped reports which appear in the city papers.  The enemy continues his fiendish bombardment, with little change, save in the adoption of shells with time fuses, which are designed to burst in the air, and to be more destructive than those heretofore used.  Thus far, they have not realized the object sought, and during the last week the only injury inflicted to life or limb, has been the stunning of a soldier, and a slight wound on a colored woman.  The number of shells thrown during the week, has been about one thousand, some of them from hundred pounder Parrott guns, and some from the Wiard [?] rifle. . .
           
The God of Justice reigns—and from the day when our flag was flung to the breeze on Sumter until now, the marks of His favor have been unmistakable in the preservation of the lives of the people, and in the success of our efforts for defence.  The limited destruction of property by the protracted rain of shells, is as wonderful as the small loss of life.  I walked through the streets where the effect of the shells is most apparent.  Here a cornice is knocked off, there is a small round hole through the side of building, and at remote intervals the earth is torn where a shell exploded, and looks like the work of a porker in search of some hidden treasure.
           
Venders of the staples of the market sit serenely by their little stores, unmindful of the pyrotechnic salutations of their Yankee deliverers.
           
I bought delicious apples and cakes at one fourth the price charted two hundred miles away in the interior, where abundance and extortion seems to go hand in hand.
           
In reply to a question if she were not afraid, one of these old women replied, “Lor mars, we no feard now—we’s usen to em.  Dey make big noise and fro trash all about—dat’s all—de good Lord pertects us.”  Thus is the radiant trust of these people exemplified even in the spirit of this simple African.  I confess that I could not feel thus indifferent to these missiles of destruction, and as they came screeching across the bay, I felt an instinctive inclination to change my base of observation.  Extending my ramble to other portions of the city, the track of shells was here and there discernible, but they have not effected a tithe of the injury sustained by the great fire of two years ago, whose blackened outline stretches across what was once the heart of the city.  In only two or three instances have fires been occasioned by them, and then the loss was trifling.  In localities most exposed to the shells the old tide of business is suspended.
           
Here and there a pedestrian moves hurriedly along, and the rattle of a cart or dray is heard for a whole square.  The blinds are closed, vases of rare exotics droop and wither on the lonely window sill, because there is no tender hand to twine or nourish them.  The walk glistens with fragments of glass, rattled thither by the concussion of exploding shells, and little tufts of bright green grass are springing up along the pave once vocal with the myriad tongues of busy trade.  If this be food for exultation to the malevolent foe, he is welcome to the tender morsel.  I do not mean to say that any part of the city is abandoned.  Here and there stores are opened, machine shops are active, and labor incident to the public defence is pushed vigorously forward, even in the most exposed districts.  Still many branches of ordinary business, and most of the residents are removed, because it would be foolhardy for those not compelled by special duty to remain.
           
The Mills House and Charleston Hotel—those princely abodes of comfort and good cheer are closed; the Pavillion still invited the sojourner to its hospitable roof, most of the habitues of Hayne and parts of Meeting and King streets abandoned the merchants desk for the camp, or transferred their wares to points secure from Yankee guns.
           
That part of the city to which the cowardly vengeance of the foe has not penetrated is “a map of busy life.”  The newspapers, post office, express office, banks, and many business houses are in successful operation and streets present a scene of animation not at all suggestive of a state of siege.
           
I trust the allusions to the effects of the bombardment will not be considered contraband.  I have penned them for the eye of those who have known Charleston in other days, and who feels an interest in its destiny.  It cannot aid or gratify the enemy to know how fruitless are his efforts to destroy a place which has so nobly resisted all the efforts for its conquest.  You may hear from me at Wilmington.
                                                                                                                                                                                              
Viator.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 26, 1864, p. 1, c. 3
           
Did You Ever.—Did you ever know a lodging-house landlady who would own to bugs?
           
Did you ever know a dancing-master’s daughter who was not to excel Tagliano?
           
Did you ever know a man who did not think he could make sallad [sic] better than you could?
           
Did you ever know a house-maid who, on your discovering a fracture in a valuable China jar, did not tell you it was “done a long time ago!” or that it was “cracked before?”
           
Did you ever know a man who didn’t consider his razor a better razor than your razor?
           
Did you ever know a shirt-maker who was not prepared to sell you as good a shirt for eighteen dollars the dozen as the one you’ve got on at thirty?
           
Did you ever know a red-haired man who had a very clear notion of where scarlet began and auburn terminated?
           
Did you ever know a lady with fine eyes wear green spectacles?
           
Did you ever know an amateur singer without a “horrid bad cold?”
           
Did you ever see a cool fat woman in black in the dog-days?
           
Did you ever know an author who had not been ill-used by the publishers?  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 26, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
           
The Marietta Rebel says that when the history of this war is written by an impartial hand, the chapter which records the noble conduct of our Southern women will constitute the most brilliant chapter.  But what pen will be able to do justice to the glorious theme?  What words can properly describe and give to future generations anything like a clear outline of the unyielding devotion, the sturdy fortitude and the unshaken faith which has marked their attachment to the cause of Southern independence from the commencement of the rebellion up to the present time.  Their enthusiasm, the promptness with which they yielded up their loved ones to the support of what they believed to be a holy cause, the activity and earnestness they have displayed in providing for the comfort of the soldiers, their watchful and unceasing care of the sick and wounded, the angelic tenderness with which they have bent over the couch of the dying, and the words of comfort and consolation they have poured into the expiring hero’s ear; these things can all be told.
           
But the story of uncomplaining anguish, of the unbearable sorrows of loving hearts, bereft of all that was dear, and about which the tendrils of affection had twined and wound themselves, until separation was the ruin of all hope, and entailed enduring woe—this must constitute the unwritten, but the saddest feature in the narrative of this horrid conflict, and must be transmitted down the stream of time, through the families, from generation to generation.  Few families will there be, who will not have their tale of a father, husband, son or lover, who perished in a holy effort to prop the reeling cause of human rights, assailed by overwhelming odds, but defended with an unfaltering spirit and resolution, which considered not the numbers of the foe, but with eyes fixed upon the sacred banner to be upheld, staked all upon the issue, and poured out life upon the bloody field.  And what untold wretchedness they left behind?  How unmurmuringly endured?  The stifled sob, the heaving breast, the quivering lip, and grief’s rough lines made daily deeper and more lain, by the iron finger of despair, speaks a language not given to words to tell, or pen to portray.
           
Can it be supposed that a God of justice takes no note of these bereaved hearts, and that he will not hold to a stern accountability the authors of all this woe?  Does any one doubt, that when the great account shall be made up, at the general judgment, every tear and sigh will demand indemnity, and every sorrow recoil with fearful power upon its guilty authors?  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 26, 1864, p. 2, c. 6
Summary:  Concert Hall—“Little Blanche;” “The Swiss Cottage"  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 26, 1864, p. 2, c. 6
                       
Imported Goods.
                       
Dry Goods.
1 bale Red Flannel
3 bales White do
4 cases Merino Shirts
2 cases Linen Cambric Hdkfs
25 cases Fancy Prints
25 cases Bleached Shirtings
2 cases White Shoe Thread
3 cases Brown Shoe Thread
                       
Hardware.
2 M. sett Knives and Forks
500 doz Pocket Knives, Ass’td
500 pair Wool Cards
10 pair Trowels, Assorted
200 pair Shovels and Tongs
20 doz Sledge Hammers
75 doz Rivetting [tear in paper]
200 doz Files, Assorted,
                       
For sale by
           
Chamberlain, Isaacs & Co.,
                                   
262 Broad Street.  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 27, 1864, p. 1, c. 1

Augusta Powder Mills.

            A correspondent of the London Times gives a very interesting account of the Augusta Powder Mills, and pays a deserved tribute to the skill and untiring energy of Colonel Rains and the officers connected with the Government Works in this city.  Col. Rains is a native of North Carolina, and the Old North State should feel justly proud of one who, by his indefatigable exertions, scientific researches and admirable tact and skill, has contributed so much to further the great cause in which we are engaged.
           
[“] A long conversation with Col. Rains, the Superintendent of the Government Powder Mills in Augusta, and also the manager of the Arsenal of Construction and of the cannon foundry in this city, has taught me more than ever to admire the ingenuity and energy which the Confederates have brought to bear upon their struggle.  Starting without any powder mill in the Southern States, except a small one at Nashville, which soon passed out of their hands—without any large establishments for making machinery, and without a single trip hammer between the Chesapeake and the Rio Grande—deficient in iron, lead, copper, tin, saltpetre, cannon, small arms, everything save food, they have taught the world a lesson in regard to the impossibility of subjugating a brave people, which will point a historical moral for ages to come.
           
There are two men whose names are seldom heard in connection with the history of this war, but who have probably contributed more to the Confederate success than any other persons, with the exception of Lee, Jackson and Longstreet—I mean Colonel Rains and Captain Brooks.  Each of them modest and unobtrusive men, absorbed in scientific researches, inexhaustible in the fertility of their resources, indefatigable in energy, they have presented during the last thirty months a record for the study of their countrymen, which will everywhere be read with profit whenever the history of this great revolution is fairly told.  I have seldom had the advantage of encountering any man whose conversation was so instructing as that of Colonel Rains.  His recapitulation of the difficulties which he has every day to supplement and circumvent by ingenuity, and the results of his work, as evidenced by his contributions to the Confederate armies, is such as to awaken amusement.
           
In a former letter, written some months ago from this town, I gave a short sketch of the Augusta Powder Mill.  From that time up to the present hour the efficiency has been constantly on the increase, and as evidence of its prolific working, I may mention that since its opening on the 27th of April, 1862, Col. Rains has sent a million and a half pounds of powder to Richmond alone, exclusive of his contributions to Vicksburg, Charleston, Mobile and the armies of Gens. Bragg and Johnston.  From his Arsenal of Construction he has sent off six million cartridges for small arms and 50,000 round shot and shell, to say nothing of caps, hand grenades and torpedoes.  From his cannon foundry he is continually turning out 12 pounder Napoleons, 20 pounder Parrotts and howitzers; but the wealth of artillery already possessed by the Confederates is such that he has ceased to produce Napoleon guns with the rapidity which at one time characterized his proceedings, his rate of production having been one Napoleon gun per diem.  The daily yield of the powder mills is now at the rate of 3,400 pounds a day, which might, if occasion required, be indefinitely increased.
           
But, with every important station in the Confederacy already surfeited with powder, with large supplies in the hands of Generals Beauregard, Bragg, Johnston, and at Mobile and Wilmington, (Gen. Lee, of course, draws his supplies from Richmond,) and with two other powder mills in active operation, it is of little importance that even this rate of production should be maintained.  The ordinary consumption of powder in the Confederacy is rated at two thousand pounds per day; that is, of course, greatly increased by such sieges as those of Vicksburg and Charleston, which bring up the average to ten thousand pounds a day, occasioned by the large demands of the heavy artillery employed.  It is a singular commentary upon this war, that a nation which, two years ago, produced not a pound of powder, should now think nothing of a daily consumption of ten thousand pounds, produced entirely from their own resources.[“]  

DAILY CONSTITUTIONALIST [AUGUSTA, GA], January 27, 1864, p. 2, c. 2

[Correspondence of the Constitutionalist.]
Letter from Wilmington.

                                                                                                                                                                         Wilmington, January 24.
           
Leaving Charleston by the North-eastern railroad at one o’clock P.M., passengers reach Florence—the junction with the Wilmington & Manchester road—about eight o’clock.  The distance is 102 miles.  The country is monotonous and uninteresting.  The lands appear to be unproductive, though here and there the commodious residence of rice planters may be seen half-hid among the distant pines.  Is it not strange that so little respect is paid to this majestic growth, one of the most graceful and useful trees that adorn our native soil?  What more beautiful park can be found than one adorned with a carpet of wire grass or rich Bermuda, and shaded by the stately forms of these towering monarchs of the forest?
           
And yet they are usually destroyed to make room for a second growth of gnarled and scrubby oaks, or a motley growth of sickly exotics, whose chief attraction is in the expense and trouble by which they are made to supplant those indigenous to the soil.  It is refreshing to find here and there an exception to the ruthless custom of exterminating the pine from its proper place among the ornamental growth of our country.
           
From Florence to Wilmington the distance is, I believe, 104 miles.  Daylight finds the train dragging its slow length into the smoky suburbs of this favorite emporium of turpentine and blockade trade.  Sixteen years have made few changes in the features that then impressed my youthful observation; the ferry boat still subserves the purpose of a bridge across the Cape Fear, and the smoky turpentine distilleries adorn the vicinity, though they have long since suspended operations.  Flat boats ply up and down the river, laden with the surplus staples of the country, which are doled out to purchasers at the levee.  Steamers are plying between the city and the defences below, and the heterogeneous piles of army stores, country produce and blockade merchandise present quite an array of commercial activity.
           
A walk up town reveals many new and spacious business blocks, and elegant private residences which do not meet the eye of the traveler in passing through the city.  I observe also new churches of very tasteful architecture which are the unmistakable evidences of refinement and virtue.
           
Trade is dull.  The frequent disasters that have attended the blockade trade, have somewhat interrupted the regularity of communication with foreign ports.  The latest Nassau dates are to the 13th.  They contain nothing worthy of note.  The levee presents a miniature picture of commercial life.  Several splendid clyde built Steamers of spotless white swing leisurely at their piers, or lie at anchor down the river.  The increased vigilance of the blockade fleet has not caused any relaxation of enterprise or daring by these bold cruisers, though several have recently fallen into the hands of the enemy.  I believe the Steamer, Advance is the last that has attempted to run in.  She was run ashore on Monday, but it is understood that she will be saved, with a valuable cargo.  Two large sales take place next week; one by Wilks Morris, Esq., whose name is familiar to every merchant in the Confederacy, and the other by Crenshaw Bros., a reputable Richmond house.  These sales embrace a very large amount of goods, and the impression seems general that prices will rate low.  Confidence is expressed by holders that after a temporary depression prices will continue to advance.  They offer as a reason, that the quantity of importations is much diminished, while the old supplies of the country are exhausted, and the demand must therefore increase.
           
From my observation here, I am led to believe that the character of the blockade trade has been somewhat misunderstood.  Their stocks embrace few positive luxuries or articles not essential to the comfort of our people, while they have added invaluable stores to the supplies of the Government.
           
Considerable uneasiness is felt here on account of the rapid spread of small pox.  This loathsome disease is not confined to any particular class or condition, but has invaded some of the most respectable circles.  The Mayor has issued an order that the people be vaccinated, and appealing to all exposed persons to preserve the utmost caution not to communicate the disease. . . .
           
While the spirit of endurance and confidence is most encouraging here, occasional evidence of the evil work of croakers and traitors is observable.  I saw three poor fellows tied together, under sentence of death, for desertion.  I learn that they belong to this State.  They are the victims of the traitorous teachings of Holden, who, if justice were done him, would fill their places.
           
I have had the pleasure of meeting a lady recently from Halifax, Nova Scotia, where she saw Mr. Charles Hallack, formerly of the New York Journal of Commerce, and more recently from your city.  She reports him to be working and writing zealously for our cause, and enjoying excellent facilities for the exercise of his fine abilities.  He desired her to assure any of his friends whom she might meet in the South, of his fidelity to the Confederacy, and of his hope and purpose to return.  This lady is Mrs. N., a refugee from Louisiana.  Her suffering among the Yankees and the blue noses would fill a volume.  She was captured at Memphis, and subsequently confined in a loathsome dungeon, six feet under ground, at Alton, Ill., for talking with rebel prisoners.  Her husband having been an Englishman, she appealed to the British Consul to protection, and through his influence was allowed to go through to Canada.  Here she met kind friends, who soon arranged for her to run the blockade.  She was on the ill-fated Margaret and Jessie, and subjected to a severe shelling from the Yankee fleet, in which she was struck in the hand, and somewhat disabled.  She was finally put ashore at Beaufort, and taken to Fortress Monroe.  Her British papers did not avail her with the beast, who is in authority there; and she was permitted to go to Washington, to communicate with Lord Lyons.  After six or seven ineffectual attempts, she succeeded in obtaining a passport to go South per flag of truce.  She then hastened back in triumph to the Beast, and exultingly showing her passport, told him that she had been to see his master, and had come to demand admittance through his lines.  The bling-eyed old sycophant at once became most bland and conciliatory, and craved permission to secure her comfortable accommodations, until the truce boat left.  She replied that one who had been so long exposed to the cruelties of the United States authorities had learned to provide for herself.  Just before the boat sailed, he came in person to escort her to the boat.  She ingeniously avoided accepting the offer, and declares that she would have sooner perished in Fortress Monroe, than be seen in company with the black-hearted outlaw.  On the truce boat she met good friends, and is stopping here to seek rest from her long and toilsome adventures, which would have crushed the spirits and broken the heart of any but a true Souther