Courtesies of war.
Messrs. Editors of the Baltimore American:--
A happy circumstance took place in the middle of the Potomac River a few days since at Conrad's Ferry, 25 miles above Georgetown, which, if you deem worthy an insertion in your paper, you can publish, and may the Supreme Ruler of the Universe grant that the rulers of the two sections of our country may follow the example set by the patriotic actors in this scene.
A detachment of the Federal troops were stationed on the northern bank of the river.
On the opposite, or southern bank, were stationed a detachment
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of the Confederate troops, all within hailing distance, (the river not more than one-quarter of a mile wide at this point.) A challenge was proclaimed by some two or three of the Federal troops to meet the same number of the Confederate troops in the middle of the river, (which is fordable below the ferry,) shake hands and drink each other's health.
The challenge was accepted, and divesting themselves of their arms and a portion of their clothing, they met, exchanged salutations and drank together in mutual friendship.
These troops had been skirmishing across the river some six or eight days previous, with cannon, rifles, and musketry.
Yours, &c., B. B. P. Sugarland forest, June 25, 1861.
