[correspondence of the Richmond Dispatch.]
the war — a Great invention — paper mills — Prosperous times, &c. Wilmington, N. C., Jan. 11, 1861.
It is truly a treat to the weary traveler ‘"to lie over"’ a day in this city.
‘"It pays."’ if he will only stir about enough to see and hear what may be seen and heard.
Wilmington was probably, in the early history of the war, a greater sufferer than any city in the South.
She had been wholly dependent upon the North for almost every article of food.
But now butter, chickens, and everything one could ask for his table is pouring down from the mountains.
Nice butter may be had from 40 to 45 cents; bacon at 20 cents, and other things in proportion.
I take pleasure in informing you of an important invention, by means of which our soldiers are being shielded from the cold and dampness of tent life.
Blankets are being made of the moss which is to be found in such immense quantities around the trees in many portions of the South.
Yesterday six hundred of these blankets passed through this city — They are thick and as warm as any blanket.
Here then is another great instance of the inventive genius of our sunny South.
We rob the trees of their clothing rather than that our brave boys shall suffer for lack of raiment.
There are 4,500 soldiers in and around Wilmington.
Gen. Joseph R. Anderson of your city is in command here.
He seems to be quite popular.
Though within eight miles of the ocean the people here seem to have no fear of the Lincoln fleet.
All is quiet at present.
The editors of the Daily Journal, (the only paper published in this city, though formerly there were five,) tell me that the paper mill by which they are supplied continues to make and sell paper at the same old prices.--I record this fact with pleasure as it proves that there is one man in the South who is not disposed to use these war times for his own aggrandizement.
Paper mills are going up in different portions of this State and several powder mills are being erected.
You will probably hear from me again before I leave this point. Rambler.
