From Norfolk.
[special correspondence of the Dispatch]
Last night at 10 o'clock, a bright light was seen in the direction of Hampton, and it is supposed that some large building in the suburb of the late town was destroyed although a gentleman who saw the blaze thinks that some vessel was consumed, as the burning mass appeared slightly to change its position. Some persons on Craney Island believe that the Chesapeake Female College building was on fire; but the daylight revealed its lofty cupola and bold front standing proudly in its place upon the beautiful shore of the splendid roadstead.
The heavy booming of the great guns at Fort Monroe, on Saturday, announced the arrival of Gen. Wool, who has no doubt entered upon the discharge of his military duties.
Our citizens have concluded to make no pleasure trips to Old Point until the next season; so the grand fancy balls at the Hygeia and at Banks', the bountiful hog-fish dinners at Burcher's and Tabb's, and the pleasant walks on the "sounding sea-shore" by moonlight, have all been postponed. The enjoyment of these pleasurable recreations is only a question of time. If our brave commanders deem the possession of Fortress Monroe desirable, it will be taken, and at such time as may be thought proper by them. It should have been taken when it might have been ours without loss of life or limb. When it shall be in our possession, our new and powerful Government will probably build a splendid fortress at the Rip Raps. But we may have something further to say on this subject at another time.
This morning there is a fleet of five large vessels in Lynnhaven Bay, besides the Quaker City, that still cruises along the coast in search of mischief and plunder. Her rascally depredations are much less frequent than formerly, on account of the watchfulness and activity of our brave troops on the shore.
The five ships alluded to are supposed to be war vessels, but whether Federal or foreign, I have not yet ascertained. The fleet made its appearance on Saturday.
A portion of the Louisiana Regiment stationed on the opposite side of the river changed its position to-day.
The Richmond Greys will have a grand dress parade this afternoon.
No important arrests have been made for several days. The city this morning is reported quiet.
Pepper is out and getting well. Fish, who shot him, is still in jail. The weather continues very hot, although a delightful breeze comes in from over the "deep blue sea." Last week the thermometer fell 30 degrees; but soon rose again.
Crowds of passengers are hurrying down to the depot of the Norfolk and Petersburg Road; perhaps to a well the number of visitors to your beautiful city of hills Galerius.
