From Norfolk.
the Occupation of Accomac by the Federals--Assistances N for our privateers in New York — the M. B. Confederate--Promotion, &c.[special Correspondence of the Dispatch.]
Norfolk, Nov. 20, 1861.
Reliable information has been received here that eight thousand Federal troops have marched into Accomac, on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, and taken possession of the county.
Large forces were expected yesterday in Northampton county.
The Confederate force being very small, and almost entirely without arms, but little resistance was made.
A letter has been received here from Jas. Reilly, John Williams, Patrick McCarty, and Archibald Wilson, formerly of this city, privateersmen of the Florida, and who are now confined in the Tombs, in New York.
They state that they are in great need of clothing and money, and appeal to their friends for assistance.
Their trial will not take place until next April.
It is hoped that the needed help will not be delayed.
The Methodist Conference commenced its session here this morning, at 9 o'clock, Dr. Wm. A. Smith presiding.
Bishop Andrew is expected to arrive to-day, at 11 o'clock, by the Petersburg train.
Many of the ministers arrived yesterday, and a large number are expected to-day.
The trial of young Claiborne Hughes is expected to take place to-day.
Judge Baker has great difficulty in impaneling a jury to try this important case, but expects to be ready to commence the examination of witnesses to-day or certainly to-morrow.
On Monday afternoon, two gun-boats left Newport News with a large number of troops, proceeded about four miles up James river, and came to anchor.
It is thought the troops were landed on Monday night, as the gun-boats returned to Newport News yesterday morning.
It is stated that there is much activity at Newport News, and the impression is that the Federal forces are preparing for an attack at some point on the river.
Col. Wm. Mahone, of this city, has been promoted to be a Brigadier-General in the Confederate Army. Lieut. Col. Thomas J. Corprew has been appointed a full Colonel.
The New Opera House will be opened tomorrow evening for the first appearance in our city of the Queen Sisters, from Charleston, S. C.
The case of those persons arrested on a charge of keeping a gaming house, will come up for examination in the Mayor's Court today.
Hon. S. T. Sawyer, formerly editor of the Southern Argus, recently passed through our city, and is now in Government service in North Carolina.
His family are sojourning at the Atlantic Hotel in this city.
The children of the Howard Orphan Asylum have been removed to the handsome building on Holt street, known as the Norfolk Female Orphan Asylum, and the two institutions combined in one, are under the supervision of Mrs. Walker, who had charge of the last-named establishment several years ago.
We had a heavy frost here this morning, and there are now indications of stormy weather. 