tates Armies." He suggested the
falling back on the defenses of Richmond, and detaching 15,000 to the
south side to crush or drive away Butler. He would then not only return
the 15,000 to the north side, but bring over 25,000 additional to crush
Grant.

This scheme was rejected by Bragg on the 19th, after consultation with
the President and the Secretary: the latter indorsing _his_ concurrence
in the rejection, the President not _committing himself in writing_. But
Beauregard was ordered to attack Butler without delay, which was done,
and successfully; but he was not crushed, and still threatens our
railroads with a portion of his army, while the rest has been sent to
reinforce Grant.

Nevertheless, Beauregard is here with some 20,000, and Lee _did_ fall
back to the defenses of Richmond.

Congress has passed a bill increasing the compensation of themselves 100
per cent. Perhaps they will not adjourn now, but remain and await
events.

Senator Hunter and the Secretary of War promenaded the Square yesterday
afternoon in a long "confabulation," supposed by some to relate to
political matters.

5 O'CLOCK P.M.--Heavy and quick cannonading heard some eight or ten
miles east of the city. It continued until night, when it was raining
and cold; and Custis had no blanket, not anticipating such a change.

JUNE 3D.--Raining gently, and cool.

As early as 4 A.M. there was an incessant roar of artillery, the
vibrations of which could be felt in the houses. It could be heard
distinctly in all parts of the city. And ever and anon could be
distinguished great crashes of musketry, as if whole divisions of
infantry were firing at the word of command. It continued until 11
o'clock A.M., when it ceased. A dispatch from Lee stated that his line
(behind breastworks, center and left) had been repeatedly assaulted, and
every time the enemy was repulsed. The attack, it was supposed, was made
to check a flanking movement made yesterday afternoon, by Gen. Ewell, on
the enemy's left, to cut his communications with the White House, his
base of supplies. No doubt the slaughter has been great!

The dispatch from Beauregard indicates that he may be still on the other
side of the river. It may be a _ruse de guerre_, or it may be that the
general's enemies here (in the government) are risking everything to
keep him from participation in the great battles.

Mr. Hunter, being short and fat, rolls about like a pumpkin. He is
everywhere, seeking t