April 20.—When General Johnston took command of the army, he ordered that every tenth man should draw a two weeks’ furlough, and then, if they chose, could transfer it to any of their comrades, which is often done by those whose homes are in the enemy’s lines. There are many of the latter.
My brother has just called on his way to the army, having drawn a two weeks’ furlough and been to Mobile. While there, he went to a party every night. He brought a number of tobacco bags with him, given him by the ladies, for, to use his own words, “some poor fellows whose mothers and sisters are in the enemy’s lines.” Miss W. added to his stock, as the “poor fellows” are from Louisiana.
Lord John Russell has informed President Davis that he can not permit the building of rams for the “so-called” Confederate government, as that would be a breach of that neutrality which the British government has been so careful in keeping between the two nations. I think the less Lord Russell says on that subject the better; as, thanks to Smith O’Brien, and many others as good authority, we all know how that has been kept, and how Great Britain has aided the North in every possible way. If Britain feels that she can not consistently league with barbarians who have the crime of slavery dimming their national character, let her act honestly, and not cry neutrality with her voice while she is doing all in her power with her hands to aid our enemy: and to think how much stronger they are than we! I shall begin to think what I have often been told about Britain is true, that she is afraid of the North:
“Is it England mocks us with her grief!
Who hate but dare not chide the imperial thief!”
But from all we know, Lord Russell does not represent the feeling of the British people . Had they their way, we would have been recognized long ago.
President Davis’s answer is worthy of the upright man, which he is. He tells Lord Russell that it is useless for him to try and blind us, when not a day passes without ships, laden with deluded people, leaving Britain to aid our enemies. I am certain that Davis would not be guilty of resorting to such a subterfuge as this lord has, even to save the country and cause, which we all know he has so much at heart.
