the Apprehended attack on Norfolk — Movements of the Federal fleet-- a good invention — release of John Williams, &c.
Norfolk, Dec. 17, 1861.
During the past week it was widely rumored that Norfolk would surely be attacked.
Indeed, so sanguine were some that the prediction would come true, bets were freely made; but as yet they have not made their appearance.
Nor is it probable they will for some time to come, as they are little disposed to undertake an adventure to our city, fraught as it would be with such dangerous consequences.
The heavy firing of yesterday was merely the practicing of heavy ordnance.
When the wind is from the North the sound is very distinct, but when from the South, to us it is sometimes scarcely audible.
We were recently shown a new invention in the way of a splendid rifle cannon, which far surpasses anything of the kind we have ever seen. It was made in Petersburg, and from the name of its maker, receives the name of the ‘"July Sun."’ The great advantage gained, is the frequency with which it can be fired,--the breach never becoming hot from constant firing. Every difficulty in our old pieces is entirely obviated, and as a field piece it is highly useful, and we would say indispensable.
we learned yesterday that about thirty ships were in the Roads, but we understand they are destined to different points along the coast.
A few days ago, some splendid shooting was done at Craney Island by one of our large guns at that point, which we deem worthy of mention. A buoy was placed some distance down the river as a mark. Before ten shots had been fired it was torn in pieces. Sirs, what think you, if a ship should attempt passage? What would be the consequences? The gun was aimed by a Sergeant in one of the Petersburg companies. Colonel Smith, of the Virginia Military Institute, was present, and was highly pleased with the result.
Our worthy Mayor, yesterday, called a meeting at the Court-House to devise means for the relief of our unfortunate brethren in Charleston. Appointments were made in the several wards to collect funds, and no doubt a good sum will be realized. This heavy calamity upon the good citizens of Charleston must excite the deepest sympathy of us all.
Mr. John Williams, whose arrest and imprisonment in Fort Lafayette has been mentioned, we are glad to say has been released, and is now with his family in Baltimore. He is under bonds for $10,000 not to return again to Virginia, or take up arms against the Federal Government. Mr. W., by his many good traits, was endeared to many of us, and his urbanity and kindness will long be remembered in connection with the Boston line of steamers, of which he was agent. By his direction, all of his household and kitchen furniture was disposed of yesterday at public auction.
The winter quarters for our volunteers in this section are rapidly advancing toward completion.
Entrenched Camp, distant about two miles from this city, in a pleasant location, is one of the most agreeable encampments we have lately visited. We have often heard the expressions, as perhaps we would sit down to a nice, well-spread table, ‘"Oh! the poor soldiers."’ But could you see, Messrs. Editors, the Richmond Grays, for instance, of your city, feasting on the many delicacies that our market affords, you would at once see how unnecessary the expression. We may safely say our troops want no better fare. And there, too, are the ‘"Juniors,"’ and many other companies we have not the space to mention, and all attempting to vie with each other whenever ladies are on the ground, to show them the greatest attentions. Luna.
