Letter from the Army.
[from our own Correspondent.] Army of Northern Virginia,
March 1st, 1864.
As far back as Thursday last it was said by deserters and scouts that there was a movement on foot in the Yankee army, but none seem to have been prepared or the bold move which the enemy have attempted.
On Saturday the enemy, with a force of some two thousand cavalry, backed by infantry supports, and some , moved from Culpeper Court House by way of Madison Court-House, which they occupied about day light of Sunday.
From Madison Court-House they moved via Stadardsville, which they reached early day morning and occupied with their infantry, their cavalry meantime pressing forward to Charintteville, in sight of which they came yesterday evening.
Upon arriving near this place, however, they found a few cavalry and furloughed men, who were quickly brought together under Major Mason, Q. M, who, supporting St Horse Artillery, under Major Beekham, succeeded in driving back the enemy as they attempted to cross Rivanna river; thus saving the town of Charlottesville, our noble University, and the Rivanna river bridge.
Last night the enemy were encamped in four mites of Charlottesville.
Their camp fires being clearly discer
No further effort has been made to advance on Charlottesville; and this morning the enemy are slowly retiring, closely observed and followed by forces adequate, it is hoped, to ensure, their capture.
Whilst this movement was going on upon our left flank, the enemy stole steat across our lower fords and moved towards the Central railroad, which they reached about fifteen minutes after the up train passed, on board of which was no less a personage than Gen. Robert E Lee — The down train from Gordonsville left as usual, but when near Frederick's Hall was warned off and returned with the passengers to Gordonsville.
This raiding party did not do much damage, and did not. I hear, attempt to get any of our artillery stated near Frederick's Hall.
At Frederick's Hall, however, I learn that they captured Lt. Col. H. P. Jones and Capts. Page, Watson, Dement, and some other officers, sitting at that point on Court martial.
A heavy rain has been falling since last night, and the enemy are demonstrating on our front.
Gen. R. E. Lee is safe and in command. X. March 1st, 1864.
