War matters.
further Federal reports of the fight at Somerset, Ky.
interesting from New Mexico.
&c. &c. &c.
Our Northern news summary this morning in made up from papers as late as the 221 inst. It will be found of an interesting character.
The Batter at Somerset, Ky.--Fourth Federal account.
Our forces followed the rebels, who ran before them in the wildest confusion, like a flock of sheep, close up to their entrenchments on the north bank of the river.
In front of their entrenchments the rebels laid all night, expecting that we would storm them in the morning; but with the aid of their boats and barges they managed to get across the river before daylight.
They left behind all their artillery, ammunition, horses, and tents, and eighty wagon loads of quartermasters' and medical stores fell in to our hands.
Our troops had possession of their entrenchments early in the morning.
After reaching the opposite side of the river the rebels dispersed in every direction.
Two hundred dead and wounded rebels were picked up on the field.
General Zollicoffer was found in a wagon, mortally wounded.
Our loss is not definitely ascertained, but it must be considerable.
The Surgeon of the Tenth Indiana regiment telegraphed that his regiment had 70 killed and wounded.
General Thomas' division embraces some of the best regiments in this department.
As far as I can learn, the Ninth Ohio, the Tenth Indians, the Second Minnesota, the Eighteenth Regulars, the Fourth Kentucky and the Tenth Kentucky regiments were among those engaged.
Colonel Manson's Brigade, including the Tenth Indians, the Eighteenth Regulars, and some Kentucky regiments, reinforced Gen. Thomas during Saturday night. They made a forced march of twenty-five miles through heavy roads, and managed to arrive three hours before the commencement of the fight, in which they took a glorious part, in spite of their fatigue.
The tenor of all the official dispatches received goes to show that the affair resulted in the most brilliant victory of the war.
No prominent officers are said to be killed on our side.
General Schoepff was unable to cut off the retreat of the enemy, owing to the fluffy character of the country and the obstruction of the roads by felled timber.
Louisville, Jan. 21--There is no news from General Thomas to-day.
No details of the Federal loss have yet been received.
General Thomas has taken the steamer and the line barges in which the rebels conveyed their forces across the Cumberland, and which in their precipitate flight they failed to destroy.
The theory at headquarters is, that using that boat to convey his troops across the river southward, and providing other means of transportation, General Thomas has been too busy to send the details of the recent fight.
No private telegraphic dispatches of military matters can come over the Southern line to Louisville, and no private information has been received.
Interesting from New Mexico--the Texas Confederates Threaten an attack on Fort Craig.
An express from Mesilla arrived at Santa Fe on the evening of the 4th inst., bringing news that fifteen hundred Texans, with seven pieces of artillery, were marching on Fort Craig, and were within thirty miles of that post.
The scouts from the fort had been drawn in.
A severe battle is expected, as the Texans were fighting principally for food.
Governor Connelly had called out the entire militia.
A letter express arrived the night of the 5th inst., which says that the enemy had retreated without making an attack on the fort.
It was not known whether Col Canby intended to follow him or not.
The scouts from Pecot's had not arrived when the mail left.
Colonel Canby has 1,000 regulars and 1,500 volunteers and militia in his command.
All is excitement at Santa Fe.
Martial law has been declared in the district.
Among the through passengers by the mail coach are Col. Street, J. Howe Watts, and John Gwinn.
The female prisoners in Washington.
From the special Washington correspondence of the Philadelphia Press, under date of the 19th, we make the following extract:On Saturday afternoon, at five o' clock, the female traitors confined in the Sixteenth at prison, were, by order of Provost Marshal Porter, removed to the Old Capitol Prison, where quarters have been provided for them. Before entering the carriage that was to convey them to their new quarters, the prisoners took an appropriate farewell of all their guards--Mrs. Greenhow saying to one of the soldiers,--‘"Good bye, sir; I trust that in the future you may have a nobler employment than that of guarding defenceless women."’ Mrs. Greenhow and Baxler then advanced to Lieutenant Sheldon, who had charge of the prison quarters, and thanked him for the uniform courtesy and kindness he had shown them during their confinement; while little Rose Greenhow, who, at the request of her mother, will be imprisoned with her, threw her arms around the Lieutenant's neck and embraced him.
When Rose Greenhow entered the prison at Old Capitol Hill she naively remarked to Lieutenant Wood, ‘"You have got one of the hardest little rebels here that you ever saw. But," ’ said she, ‘"if you get along with me as well as Lieut. Sheldon, you will have no trouble."’ Mrs. Greenhow then, turning to her daughter, said to her, ‘"Rose, you must be careful what you say here."’ Rose, however, did not seem to think that the caution was at all necessary, and that she would fare well in her new quarters
The prisoners are quartered on the second floor, in the northeast and of the jail. Each room is furnished with a round table, two chairs, and a bed — comfortable, though not extravagant in style. The prisoners are incarcerated in separate rooms, and to Mrs. Greenhow was given the choice of her accommodations — the daughter being provided for in the same room with her mother, Each of the apartments contains a grate fire. In fact, their accommodations are of the most comfortable character, and, although not so rich in adornment as those of the Sixteenth street prison, still they will have no cause of complaint.
The New York herald upon the death of ex-president Tyler.
The New York Herald, of the 23d inst., has a long editorial upon the death of ex-President Tyler, from which we make the following extract:‘ Mr. Tyler's course in advocating rebellion has long since alienated from him all personal sympathy and respect — that due to age alone excepted. To the usual comparative obscurity which awaits the ex-Presidents of this republic, and to the shades of declining years, Mr. Tyler added the darker gloom of treason, and closed his life in the capital of the rebels, surrounded by armed traitors, and making the last weary days of his long life in famous by earnestly assisting a wretched attempt to break up the Government of that country over whose destinies he had once presided, and in whose service he had enjoyed at least official honors. He died, therefore, unmourned and unhonored, and the interesting reminiscences which his career interesting reminisces which his career suggests alone make his death noticeable.
’
From the Eastern shore of Virginia — arrest of a Baltimore Secessionist.
The Baltimore American, of the 20th inst., says:‘ Information has been received here of the capture of Louis Warrington, a son of Mr. Thos. J. Warrington, of East Baltimore, near Drummontown, Accomac county, and who is now confined at that place to await the orders of Gen. Dix. Young Warrington left this city during the latter part of last spring, with a view of joining the Confederate army, but it seems had not got any further than the Eastern Shore of Virginia, where he acted with the secessionists who were dispersed by the force under General Lockwood. Matters are represented as being still quiet in that part of Secessia, the inhabitants having returned to their allegiance, and are pursuing their avocations as in former times.
’ The Baltimore American,
Interesting from New Orleans.
[Special Dispatches in the New York herald]
product of the War, he stated positively that he was in favor, and always had been in favor, of active operations, and a speedy suppression of the rebellion, and was doing his utmost to bring about such a result.
The reported abandonment of Manassas by the rebels.
The report that the rebels have abandoned Manassas is a great humbug. Gen. McClellan knows better. The roads are so bad that they cannot leave Manassas if they would, and it is believed that they would not if they could.
The reported intended attack of Norfolk.
The statement that General Wool gave notice to the authorities of Norfolk to remove all their women and children from the place is not true, nor was there any preparation of our vessels in the vicinity of Fortress Monroe for operations against Norfolk.
Arrival of a contraband.
A middle-aged female contraband this morning came within the picket lines of Gen. McCall. She says she is the slave of Mr. Jackson, brother of the Jackson who kept the Marshall House in Alexandria, and who killed Colonel Ellsworth. She was brought to this city and committed to the capital prison.
Reconnaissance towards Fairfax Courthouse.
Capt. Mott, of Mott's battery, attached to Gen. Smith's division, in defiance of rain, darkness and mud, started out last evening on a reconnaissance towards Fairfax Courthouse, accompanied by Col. Lord and a detachment of dragoons. He returned a little after daylight this morning. They scouted first about Hunter's Mills, and around Peacock and Freedom hills. Disgusted at coming across none of the enemy, they pushed for Fairfax Court-House, where they found a body of cavalry pickets. Capt. North threw up a signal light, and gave the command of ‘"fire. "’ This bold demonstration frightened the mounted pickets. Returning the fire, they plunged spurs into their horses and sped away at their utmost speed. Our men did not pursue, and none were hit by the exchange shots. Captain Mott ascertained the fact, that the rebel picket lines have been removed considerably inside from where they were a short time ago.
The rejection of Mr. Segar's claim to a seat in the House of representatives from Virginia.
The rejection of the claim of Col. Joseph Segar to a seat in Congress, as the representative of the 1st district in Virginia, was reported against by the Committee on Elections entirely on technical grounds, the election being altogether informal in reference to the recognised requirements. In concluding, the Committee pay a just compliment to Col. Segar, and allude to the gratifying evidence laid before them of the esteem in which he is held in the district, and the testimonials of patriotic gentlemen to his great services in behalf of the Union cause, and to the belief that he would be most acceptable to the Union voters of the district as their representative, but that this is not evidence of an election, and was not offered as such, but rather at the request of the Committee.
The President's levee.
The President's levee to-night was largely attended, and was one of the most brilliant of the season, not withstanding the weather was exceedingly unfavorable in consequence of the muddy streets and a raging snow storm, which commenced about 8 o'clock.--The President was in fine spirits over the news of the victory in Kentucky, and the safe arrival of Gen. Burnside in Pamlico Sound. He had a cheerful word to say to most every person who paid their respects to him. Mrs. Lincoln appeared in pure white, her dress being an elegant figured brocade. She was escorted through the great East Room by Gen. Cameron, ex-Secretary of War.Mr. Stanton, the new Secretary of War, was present, and was most cordially received by the President and distinguished guests present. Among the foreign Ministers present were the representatives from Russia, Spain, Sweden, Italy, and New Granada.--Most of the Cabinet ministers and families were present. The rich dresses of the ladies, mingling with the bright uniforms of the officers of the army, presented a varied and beautiful scene.
More secession prisoners for Fort Lafayette.
The New York Herald, of the 22d inst., says:‘ The rebel schooner Venus was taken off Galveston by the Rhode Island, and the following prisoners have been brought on:--Andrew Nelson, captain; Peter Hanson, mate; Edward Hicklet, cook; Cornelius J. Haven, Charles Eastwood, Charles Smith, Timothy Canards, Edward English, Jos. Parker, Francis Callahan, James Smith, Alfred Johnson, and Jacob Johnson.
’ The following prisoners deserted Tatnall's fleet, off Savannah;--Daniel B. Harrington, John King.
Those who follow were taken at Hilton Head, and confined for some time on board the Wabash: --Jacob Judy, James T. Bryan, James J. Colson, Capt. Geo. J. Mahe.
Mr. Mahe is a citizen of Louisiana. He is a nephew of Charles M. Conrad, Secretary of War, under President Fillmore. He was also Assistant Secretary of Legation, under Mr. Faulkner, to France. He was at the battles of Bull Run and Ball's Bluff. From the latter place he went on to New Orleans, on furlough. He was taken while fishing off that port.
The Philadelphia train brought them on yesterday afternoon. They were taken to the South Ferry, and thence by the Hamilton Avenue cars to Fort Lafayette.
The Burnside expedition.
We copy the following, from the Norfolk Day Book, of the 24th inst.:‘ A gentleman who reached this city, direct from the North Carolina coast, addresses us a communication, in which he states, that the report of Gen. Gatlin and others as to a large Federal fleet being in Pamlico Sound, with the purpose of making an attack on Roanoke Island, Newbern, and other places in the vicinity, turns out to be entirely unfounded.
He further states that this report reached Edenton on Monday night, and such was the credit given to it that Judge Biggs immediately adjourned the Confederate Court in session at that place; but that reliable information has since been received by letter from Roanoke Island, dated Wednesday, 5 o'clock A. M. to the effect that no such fleet is in Pamlico Sound, and that no fears are entertained there of an immediate attack. Reliable information from Hyde county also corroborates this statement.
’ Our correspondent concludes his communication by saying:
‘ I think, therefore, it may be confidently asserted, that neither the Burnside expedition, nor any other fleet is to be found in the waters of Eastern Carolina with a hostile purpose toward Roanoke or Newbern.
’
Affairs at the Philadelphia Navy-yard.
It is stated that the order for the Rhode Island to go to Boston has been countermanded upon the representation that the workmen are willing to resume work.
News from Kansas--trouble between the Jayhawkers.
Under this decision, Robinson, the present incumbent, holds over for a year longer.
Considerable excitement exists at Atchison to-day, owing to a collision between the citizens and a band of Jayhawkers. Some arrests have been made, and more trouble is expected.
Affairs on the Upper Potomac.
It is also stated that Gen. Lander, following out his instructions, fell back on Gen. Jackson's approach.
There are rumors of a fight having occurred, but this is discredited by those who assume to be best informed.
It is estimated that 300 refugee women from Jefferson county are now in and around this county. Many of them left children at home, and are now grieving to return to them, but a strict: blockade is kept up by Cols. Geary's, Leonard's, and Link's commands.
There is no exciting news along the river line.
Concessional proceedings.
A new section, repealing the act allowing the discharge of enlisted minors, providing that no persons under 18 years of age shall be mustered into the military service, and that the cath of enlistment shall be conclusive as to age, was agreed to. Also an amendment imposing the death penalty upon spies, and persons fording safeguards. The bill was then laid aside until to-day.
The consideration of the report of the Judiciary Committee, adverse to the reputation of Senator Bright, of Indiana, was then resumed, and Messrs. Sumner, Lane of Indiana. And Bright made interesting speeches to the subject, but without taking a few
be paid on printed matter carried outside the mails, was taken up. Mr. Colfax advocated its passage, and stated that he believed over a million dollars would be realized, and if so, with the franking privilege abolished, and the California mails paid for out of the Treasury, as provided by law, the Post Office would be nearly if not quite self-supporting. Several amendments and a substitute offered by Mr. Colfax, were voted down, and finally the original bill being before the house for action, on motion of Mr. Dawes, of Massachusetts, it was laid on the table by a vote of seventy-five against sixty-six, thus effectually disposing of the subject, and relieving the newspaper interest from the apprehension of a vast deal of annoyance, without any corresponding benefit to the Treasury. In the course of the debate on the bill, Mr. Morrill, of Vermont, a member of the Committee of Ways and Means, remarked that the Committee propose levying a tax in some form — perhaps by stamp — on all newspapers, and also a tax on telegraphic communications. A stamp on each printed sheet is the only proper method of raising revenue from this source.
Federal Expeditions.
The New York Herald, of the 22d instant, says:‘ Forty-nine vessels of the Burnside expedition, arrived safely at Pamlico Sound on Monday. It is thought that the tempestuous weather may have induced them to seek a temporary haven at that place.
The troops of General Butler's expedition, which arrived at Fortress Monroe on the Constitution, had been disembarked there, under permission of General Wool, and allowed to refresh themselves after their two weeks voyage, by marching for several hours on terra firma.
’
Miscellaneous.
In New York, on the 21st inst., Virginia 6's sold at 50 a 50½; Tennessee 6's, 48½ a 44½ North Carolina 6's, 62; Missouri 6's, 42 a 42½.Thomas L. Price, elected to fill the vacancy from the Fifth Congressional district of Missouri, occasioned by the expulsion of Reid, rebel, was on the 21st inst. sworn in as a member of the House.
The Federal Treasury Department has stopped payment of a claim of Calhoun Benham for ten thousand dollars, for services alleged to have been rendered the Government at San Francisco, California.
Colonel John Jacob Astor, who, as reported, resigned his position in General McClellan's staff, has withdrawn his resignation.
