July 16.
Major-General Dix, preparatory to assuming command of the Eastern Department, relinquished the command of the Department of Virginia, to Major-General J. G. Foster.--General Heckman returned to his quarters at Morehead City, N. C., having been absent four days on a reconnaissance toward Swansboro. The objects of the expedition were fully accomplished without casualty.--Jackson, Miss., was evacuated by the rebels.--(Doc. 98.)
The steamboat Imperial arrived at New Orleans, La., from St. Louis, Mo., the first boat, between the cities for more than two years.--the rebels made an attack on General Terry's brigade on James Island, S. C., but were repulsed. The monitors and mortar-boats kept up an al. most constant fire upon Fort Wagner all day, but most of them withdrew at night.
A force of National troops visited the salt works, near St. Mark's, Florida, and succeeded in destroying them completely, besides carrying off fifteen slaves.--the rebel forces under General Morgan passed through Piketon, Ohio.--the Colored Convention of the State of New York, met at Poughkeepsie, and issued a manifesto and call to the colored population, defining their position.--the draft riot continued in New York.--A sharp cavalry fight occurred near Shepherdstown, Va.--(Doc. 145 1/2.)
