February 4th.—Clear, but rained last night. From the South we learn that Sherman is marching on Branchville, and that Beauregard is at Augusta.
The great struggle will be in Virginia, south of Richmond, and both sides will gather up their forces for that event. We can probably get men enough, if we can feed them.
The City Council is having green “old field pine” wood brought in on the Fredericksburg railroad, to sell to citizens at $80 per cord—a speculation.
The Quartermaster’s Department is also bringing in large quantities of wood, costing the government about $40 per cord. Prior to the 1st inst., the Quartermaster’s Department commuted officer’s (themselves) allowance of wood at $130 per cord!
The President still suffers, but is said to be “better.”
Yesterday much of the day was consumed by Congress in displaying a new flag for the Confederacy—before the old one is worn out! Idiots!
I have just seen on file a characteristic letter from Major-Gen. Butler, of which this is a literal copy:
“Headquarters Dept. Va. And N. C,
“Army Of The James In The Field,
“Fortress Monroe, Oct. 9th, 1864.
“Hon. Robt. Ould—Sir:
“An attempt was made this morning by private Roucher, Co. B, 5th Penna. cavalry, to commit a rape upon the persons of Mrs. Minzer and Mrs. Anderson, living on the Darbytown Road.
“On the outrage being discovered, he broke through the picket line, and fled for your lines. Our soldiers chased him, but were unable to overtake him.
“I have therefore the honor to request that you will return him, that I may inflict the punishment which his dastardly offense merits. I cannot be responsible for the good conduct of my soldiers, if they are to find protection from punishment by entering your lines.
“I have the honor to be, your obt. servt.,
“(Signed) B.F. Butler,
“Major-Gen. Comd’g and Com. for Exchange.”
The ladies were Virginians.
I got my barrel (2 bags) flour to-day; 1 bushel meal, ½ bushel peas, ½ bushel potatoes ($50 per bushel); and feel pretty well. Major Maynard, Quartermaster, has promised a load of wood. Will these last until ——? I believe I would make a good commissary.
