Suffolk Christian Sun

April 4, 1862

Page 2

THINGS ABOUT SUFFOLK

Things about Suffolk have been more quiet for a week or two past and many ladies, who left town when a fight was expected, are returning to their homes. There is no doubt but it was laid out in the pregramine of the Burnside expedition to attack Suffolk after the fall of Roanoke Island, and by getting possession of Suffolk and the two Railroads at this place. Norfolk might be attacked in the rear, and probably forced to surrender. The plan was to approach Suffolk from the direction of Edenton, Winton or some point on the Chowan, by a land force, while the gunboats at Old Point would attempt to ascend the Nansemond river, at the same time. But while Burnside was maturing his grand scheme, the iron clad Virginia paid a visit to Hampton Roads, and demolished everything in her way. This made the proposed attempt to ascend the Nansemond with gunboats wholly impracticable and changed the whole programine of Burnside. He immediately concentrated his fleet at Hatteras and determined to attack Newbern. Thus, it will be seen that, what saved us from conflict here, plunged Newbern into ruin.

As soon as it was certain that Burnside had gone toward Newbern, things became more quiet here, and have thus remained. What, however may be the next move of Burnside, remains to be revealed. He may proceed up the Neuse and attempt the capture of Kinston and Goldsboro; he may attack Wilmington, or he may suddenly return to Albermarle Sound, and by a land march attempt to reach Suffolk, where he may imagine we have become less vigilant. We are glad to see that no less vigilance is exercized by our Military authorities, now, than when the enemy was expected every day.

Col. Armstead of the 57^th Regiment has been promoted to Brigadier General and assigned to this place, and Maj. Gen. Loring assumes command of this whole section, between Smithfield and Albermarle Sound.

[Transcribed by Sharon Strout]