. When a ship is thought to be sinking, even the cook may be
appointed captain! Anything, now, to keep out of the _field_--such is
the word among the mere politicians.

It is rumored that Gen. Pegram (since confirmed) was killed in the
enemy's attack on our right near Petersburg, and that seven brigades
were engaged and repulsed the enemy. Still, there is no official
confirmation--and the silence of Gen. Lee is interpreted adversely.

Senator Haynes, of Tennessee, and Senator Wigfall, of Texas, denounced
the President yesterday as mediocre and malicious--and that his blunders
had caused all our disasters.

Our commissioners were not permitted to land at Fortress Monroe, but
Lincoln and Seward came on board.

Judge Campbell is still acting as Assistant Secretary; but he looks very
despondent. If Beauregard gains a victory ----.

FEBRUARY 8TH.--Rained all day yesterday--slush--bright this morning and
cool--ground still covered with snow. It is reported by Gen. Lee that
the losses on both sides on Monday were light, but the enemy have
established themselves on Hatcher's Run, and intrenched; still menacing
the South Side Railroad. It is also said fighting was going on yesterday
afternoon, when the dreadful snow and sleet were enough to subdue an
army!

We have nothing from Charleston or Branchville, but the wires are said
to be working to Augusta.

A deficiency of between $300,000,000 and $400,000,000 has been
discovered in the amount of our indebtedness! the present Secretary
being led into the error by the estimates of his predecessor, Memminger.
Congress is elaborating a bill, increasing taxation 100 per cent! An
acquaintance, who has 16 acres near the city, says he will sell, to
escape a tax of $5000.

Senator Brown, of Mississippi, has introduced a resolution for the
employment of 200,000 negroes, giving them their freedom.

Gen. Kemper is strongly recommended as Assistant Secretary of War.

The wounded are still coming in from the fight beyond Petersburg.
Horrible weather, yesterday, for fighting--and yet it is said much of it
was done.

Vice-President Stephens was in the department to-day. He has a ghostly
appearance. He is announced to speak in Richmond to-morrow; but I
believe he starts for Georgia _to-day_. He may publish a letter. He had
a long interview with Judge Campbell--with locked doors.

Twelve M. The sun is melting the snow rapidly.

The Legislature of Virginia has passed resolutions in fa