o Mr. Wattles, a
clerk, to-day, that we were now arrived at the last days of the
Confederacy. Mr. Wattles told me that the judge had been convinced, as
far back as 1863, that the cause was nearly hopeless.

Some 1200 of Fitz Lee's cavalry passed through the city at 2 P.M. Gen.
Longstreet has been ordered by Gen. Lee to attack Sheridan. He
telegraphs back from north of the city that he "cannot find them," and
this body of cavalry is ordered to reconnoiter their position. I know
not how many more men Fitz Lee has in his division, but fear at least
_half_ have passed.

MARCH 16TH.--Clouds and sunshine; warm. Splendid rainbow last evening.

We have nothing new in the papers from any quarter. Sheridan's position
is not known yet, though it must be within a short distance of the city.
There was no battle yesterday. Sheridan reports the killing of Commodore
Hollins, and says it was done because he attempted to escape at
Gordonsville.

Sherman's march through South Carolina is reported to have been cruel
and devastating. Fire and the sword did their worst.

Congress, the House of Representatives rather, yesterday passed a bill
suspending the privilege of the writ of _habeas corpus_. The Senate will
concur probably. Also the President's suggestion amending the Conscript
act has been passed. The President has the reins now, and Congress will
be more obedient; but can they save this city? Advertisements for
recruiting negro troops are in the papers this morning.

It is rumored that Sheridan has crossed the Chickahominy and got off
without hinderance. If this be so, Gen. Lee will be criticised.

One P.M. It is ascertained that Sheridan has withdrawn to the York
River, and abandoned any attempt on Richmond.

And it is supposed by high military authority that but for the
providential freshet, Sheridan would have succeeded in crossing the
James River, and cutting the Danville Railroad, which would have
deprived Lee's army of supplies. The freshet rendered his pontoon bridge
too short, etc. This may be claimed as a direct interposition of
Providence, at a time when we were fasting, praying, etc., in accordance
with the recommendation of the government.

MARCH 17TH.--Bright and cool. A violent southeast gale prevailed last
evening, with rain. Of course we have no news in the papers from any
quarter. Sheridan having retired, all the local troops returned
yesterday.

After all, the President does not reap a perfect triumph ove