[Correspondence of the Dispatch.]
Derangement of the Mails — cold weather — ordered South--a militia draft — Death of an old negress. Isle of Wight Co. Va., Dec. 7th 1861.
One or two late letters, containing items of some interest, I perceive failed to reach you. There must be some unpardonable delinquency somewhere on the route to the Metropolis.
We are having a spell of genuine winter weather, and our citizens are already preparing to secure a supply of ice. Ice-houses are being erected in every direction, and no precaution will be neglected to assert our independence of our Yankee brethren (!) in reference to this commodity.
The detachments in this county are all snugly in their winter quarters, and prepared to pass the season in comparative comfort.
There exist but little sickness in the hospitals, and all seem to be buoyant and cheerful.
Gen. Pemberton, recently in command here, has been ordered South--I believe to South Carolina.
I have heard both Cols. Pryor, of the 3d Va., and Daniel, of the 4th N. C. regiment both are now stationed in this county-- suggested as his successor.--Either would doubtless make an efficient chief of a brigade.
Another draft for local purposes will probably soon be made, as the term of those now in service will soon expire.
One for the same object was made last week in Nansemond.--Much disaffection is manifested, especially by the volunteers, with the ordinance recently adopted by the Convention for the reorganization of the militia.
Produce is advancing in price.
Corn is selling at from $3 to $3½; pork from $10 to $12.
Intense excitement exists in relation to the supply of salt.
Agents have been dispatched to the salt-works, and hopes are still indulged that a supply will be obtained in due time.--If not, let speculators beware of avenging the Nemesis clambering at the thresholds.--More anon.
Rusticus.
P. S.--An old negress, supposed to have passed her hundredth year, died in the vicinity of Carrsville a few days since.
Her recollections of our first revolution were distinct, and her narratives of characters and events quite interesting. R. 