No fighting yesterday besides small collisions near Hanover Junction. It is said to-day that Grant threatens the Central Railroad, on Lee’s left. This is regarded as a serious matter. We want men.
An armed guard is now a fixture before the President’s house.
Peas were in market on the 18th inst.; price $10 a half peck. Strawberries are $10 per quart. There has been no meat in market for a long time, most of the butchers’ stalls being closed during the last three months. Unless government feeds the people here, some of us may starve.
May 25th.—Sunshine and showers.
Custis is back again, the battalion of clerks being relieved, after three weeks’ service in the field.
Yesterday there was skirmishing between the armies, near Hanover Junction—25 miles distant from the city.
Nothing of importance from the south side. But our iron-clads are certainly going down the river—they say.
To-day it is thought a battle commenced between Lee and Grant. It will be, perhaps, a decisive engagement, whenever it does take place. And yet there is no trepidation in the community; no apparent fear of defeat. Still, there is some degree of feverish anxiety, as Lee retires nearer to the capital followed by the enemy. A little delay would make us stronger, as reinforcements, especially of cavalry, are daily arriving. The trains run from the city to Lee’s headquarters in one hour and a half.
A letter from Senator Henry, of Tennessee, to the Secretary, suggests that Forrest’s cavalry be now sent to the rear of Sherman’s army in Georgia, to cut off his supplies, etc., resulting in his destruction. Perhaps this is the purpose. And Lee may have some such design. A few days will develop important events. May they put an end to this desolating war.
May 26th.—Sunshine and showers.