It is rumored that Gen. Pegram (since confirmed) was killed in the enemy’s attack on our right near Petersburg, and that seven brigades were engaged and repulsed the enemy. Still, there is no official confirmation—and the silence of Gen. Lee is interpreted adversely.
Senator Haynes, of Tennessee, and Senator Wigfall, of Texas, denounced the President yesterday as mediocre and malicious—and that his blunders had caused all our disasters.
Our commissioners were not permitted to land at Fortress Monroe, but Lincoln and Seward came on board.
Judge Campbell is still acting as Assistant Secretary; but he looks very despondent. If Beauregard gains a victory ——.
February 8th.—Rained all day yesterday—slush—bright this morning and cool—ground still covered with snow. It is reported by Gen. Lee that the losses on both sides on Monday were light, but the enemy have established themselves on Hatcher’s Run, and intrenched; still menacing the South Side Railroad. It is also said fighting was going on yesterday afternoon, when the dreadful snow and sleet were enough to subdue an army!
We have nothing from Charleston or Branchville, but the wires are said to be working to Augusta.
A deficiency of between $300,000,000 and $400,000,000 has been discovered in the amount of our indebtedness! the present Secretary being led into the error by the estimates of his predecessor, Memminger. Congress is elaborating a bill, increasing taxation 100 per cent! An acquaintance, who has 16 acres near the city, says he will sell, to escape a tax of $5000.
Senator Brown, of Mississippi, has introduced a resolution for the employment of 200,000 negroes, giving them their freedom.
Gen. Kemper is strongly recommended as Assistant Secretary of War.
The wounded are still coming in from the fight beyond Petersburg. Horrible weather, yesterday, for fighting—and yet it is said much of it was done.