From Norfolk.
capture of the Federal steamer Fanny--the Chase — character of the prize — effect of the News in Norfolk — the Federals on the North Carolina coast--Lord Tempest, &c.
[special correspondence of the Dispatch.]
It is stated that there was a considerable amount of specie on board the captured steamer — said to be about $30,000--which was also taken. This, however, requires confirmation.
The guns of the Fanny are said to be 24-pound rifled cannon. The Confederate steamers are provided with 32-pound rifled guns.--The Fanny surrendered before she was hurt; indeed, there was nobody hurt in the action.
It is stated that the engineer of the Fanny became alarmed and left the engine, which soon ceased to carry the boat ahead, and that she was run ashore unintentionally by some inexperienced person, who attempted to put her ahead again. She was gotten afloat by two of our steamers; after which, she was taken, with four of the Confederate steamers, to Chicamacomico, where the enemy has landed in considerable numbers. Before this time the Hessians have, no doubt, been captured.
The above important information has caused much rejoicing here. The news was announced last night at the Opera House, during the performances by the Amateur Minstrels, causing tumultuous cheering and great excitement in the large audience.
The concert last night, by the way, was decidedly successful, the hall having been filled in every part, at an early hour. The performances exceeded the expectation of the multitude in attendance. The acting, music, and burlesques, were all done in admirable style, and elicited the enthusiastic applause of all present. The performances will be repeated this evening.
Lord Adolphus Vane Tempest, whose departure North, via Old Point, I have already announced, made a very favorable impression here by his urbane and gentlemanly address and manner, the enlightened views which he expressed, and his general intelligence. Here, as well as in other sections of the country, where he has been, he received those courteous attentions and manifestations of regard to which his high character and liberal sentiments entitle him. No attempt was made when he landed at Fortress Monroe to examine his papers, or to offer him any indignity whatever. Had the Federal authorities there acted otherwise or less wisely, it would have doubtless resulted to their cost and proved a hazardous undertaking.
A New York merchant and his wife, whom he married here, were among the recent arrivals at Old Point from the North, and who were destined for this place. His wife only was allowed to come up to Norfolk. They own property here, which they probably desired to look after and secure for their benefit if possible. But they will perhaps be disappointed in their efforts and expectations.
The steamer William Selden goes to Fort Monroe to-day under a flag of truce, and a considerable number of persons will go down, hoping to succeed in getting North. The number includes those who went down recently and were not allowed to land at the fort.
