A Naval engagement off Port Royal.
--We are indebted to an esteemed correspondent, says, the Charleston Mercury, of the 23d, for the following facts:‘ On Monday, 19th instant, about ten o'clock A. M., while on a visit to the camp of the Beaufort Volunteer Artillery, a severe cannonading was beard off Port Roval Bar. The clouds of smoke arising from two points on the horizon, distant about a quarter of a mile from each other, led to the supposition that a sharp engagement was going on. A perfect calm prevailed at the time. By the aid of a telescope were seen the masts of two vessels. The firing was irregular, and from guns of different calibre. Calculating by the interval betwixt the flash and report, the distance was estimated at about fourteen miles. Seventy-one shots were exchanged. The firing continued three-quarters of an hour, when the vessels seemed to close together, when the firing ceased, and the vessels disappeared. It need scarcely be mentioned that that veteran corps, the Beaufort Volunteer Artillery, were anxious spectators of the doubtful scene, and eager to participate, should occasion demand. The record will prove their undaunted courage and unerring aim.
’
