[correspondence of the Richmond Dispatch]
going into winter quarters — improved Health of the soldiers — Prevalence of the scarlet fever, &c.
Fredericksburg, Va., Dec. 18, 1861
The 30th Virginia Regiment Col. Milton Cary, will leave their present locality in a few days to winter-quarter in town, and, though the move has very many serious objections, yet it will lesson somewhat the expenses of the Government, as nearly half the regiment reside here — hence will eat in their own households, and many can resume their trades while off duty;
There is a considerable number of soldiers here constantly, some sick and some on furlough; but I am glad to say that disturbances are unfrequent, and the sick in the hospitals are fewer than usual. There is nothing important from the Potomac, except the firing into passing vessels, which almost daily occurs at Evansport and other points.
In the town, especially among the children, a very virulent type of scarlet fever has been raging for some time past, but is reported to be on the decrease now. Two or three have died in each of several families.
Much satisfaction has been expressed at the large offer of bounty made to soldiers re- enlisting, for (because of various reasons) it is probable many would not re-enter the service who will now de so, even in justice to their families. There is also a power to employ two thousand seamen, but, as we have not very much of that sort of material in the South, it is thought a bounty ought to be offered in their case. What provision has been made as to a C. S. Marine Corp? It is understood that enlistments therein are not more than four hundred, when a proper recruiting officer stationed even here could certainly have picked up several valuable men, some of whom have served in the old Marines.--Congress will, it is hoped, make some provision in regard to the matter, because a Marine works better as a Marine than in any other capacity, and such men will have to be placed on board of certain vessels likely to do good service.
If anything of importance occurs in this vicinity, you shall know it by the first mail
Amicus.
