September 19, Friday. Am vexed and disturbed by tidings from the squadron off Mobile. Preble, by sheer pusillanimous neglect, feebleness, and indecision, let the pirate steamer Oreto run the blockade. She came right up and passed him, flying English colors. Instead of checking her advance or sinking her, he fired all round, made a noise, and is said to have hurt none of her English crew. This case must be investigated and an example made. Had been dismissed, this would not have occurred.
Nothing from the army, except that, instead of following up the victory, attacking and capturing the Rebels, they, after a day’s armistice, are rapidly escaping over the river. McClellan says they are crossing and that Pleasanton is after them. Oh dear!
I am not writing a history of the War or its events herein. That will be found in the books. But I record my own impressions and the random speculations, views, and opinions of others also.
