From Norfolk.
the difficulty among the Polish brigades — activity among the Federals is Hampton Roads — the Price of Fuel — the Markets — heavy firing.[special correspondence of the Dispatch]
Norfolk, Dec. 11th, 1861.
I regret to state that an unfortunate difficulty occurred yesterday among some of the officers of the corps known as the Polish Brigade, stationed at Bowers's Hill, about eight miles from this city.
Three of the officers were wounded, one, it is feared, fatally.--They were promptly removed to the General Hospital, near this city, and are as comfortable as could be expected under the circumstances.
There is still much activity among the vessels in the Roads.
They are passing often and rapidly between Fort Monroe and Newport News.
There seems to be active arrangements making for some special and important movement.
Some weeks ago I mentioned in a letter for the Dispatch that the fears entertained by many persons here, that the price of fire wood would be exceedingly high this winter, were groundless; that any great advance in the article would cause large quantities to come into market, and bring down the price.
It seems that this prediction will fortunately prove to be some what correct.
Large quantities are coming in to market.
Thousands of cords of superior wood, hard and dry, are piled up along the canals and water courses of Virginia and the Old North State, (especially the latter,) all ready for this market, and which will be shipped here as rapidly as means of transportation can be obtained.--Good, hard wood, such as has been selling at $5 and $6, sold here yesterday at $1 and $4,25, and I hope soon to quote this indispensable article of necessity at $2,50 and $3--fair paying prices.
With regard to coal, it seems that Norfolk and Portsmouth are to be deprived of its use. Persons here who recently ordered the article from a party in Petersburg, were informed in reply that dealers there were not allowed to send any coal to Norfolk, or to sell any to go there — that none comes hither, except from the mines direct to coal dealers here — This matter is not generally understood here, and may be explained hereafter.
The supply of corn is sufficient for all present demands of dealers or consumers.
Old and new are selling at 45a50 Lumber is unchanged.
The grocery market continues about as recently reported.
Yesterday rapid and heavy firing was heard in this city and vicinity coming from the direction of James river, and some very loud reports have been distinctly heard here this morning.
I cannot ascertain particulars.
War rumors are numerous as usual. 