Alexandria gazette. [volume] (Alexandria, D.C.) 1834-1974, 1860-05-05
Letter from Petersburg, Va.


PETERSBURG, May ,, lS60.-The month of
April, 1860, will long be remembered in this
community, on account of the variable and
extremely unpleasant character of the wea-
Their, as we'll as for the number of loved ones
who have been borne to their last resting
place, during its passing hours. A success
sion of easterly winds for the most part, has
rendered winter clothing and fires necessary
whilst part Of the time the sun beamed
down upon us with an intensity which would
have done credit to the burning cline of
Africa, producing changes which, after a
varied experience, have never before en-
durcd, and which will very willingly fore
go throughout all time to come. Yet, not
withstanding the backwardness of the sea-
son, the budding beauties of Spring are
everywhere visible, rendering the verdant
landscape beautiful and attractive to the eye,
and filling the hearts of the thoughtful with
the most sincere gratitude to Him who 50
literally provides for the physical and men
tai wants Of the creatures he has formed.
Extensive revivals of religion have recently
occurred here, which have resulted IN large
accessions to the Methodist and Baptist so
cieties. both white and colored; and some
idea NAV be formed of the extent Of this e1-
element amongst the latter, when it Is
known that l64 were baptised in the Apo
mattox. by Rev. Mr. Butler, on Sunday, 29th
ult., aud that 1874 are now awaiting the
administration Of this ordinance, having
given the requisite pledges for the reception
Of this rite.
j. K. Thompson. esq, the accomplished
editor of the Southern Literary Messenger,
delivered his celebrated lecture on Edgar
Allen Poe, a short time since, IN the presence
of large and highly intelligent audience,
and I think may safely say, that it was
one of the best lectures ever pronounced IN
this city. The fame of the lecturer had pre-
cedei him, and high expectations had been
raised in consequence thereof, yet the pro-
found attention he received during its deliy-
ery, gave evidence that the theme and the
speaker were appreciated, and the most las
t,dious critic rendered impotent for blame.
The lecture was divided into four parts, no.
ticing this brilliant but erring child of genius,
as Critic, Romancer, Poet, and Man, and the
different parts were handled in such man
ner as to reflect the highest credit upon MIR.
T., as q scholar and poet, while it excited
within the bosomg of the most Indifferent, the
strongest emotions Of pity for the fate OF
this highly gifted, but sadly misguided
child of song; and whatever may have been
the various opinions of the aSsemblage, IN
relation to the merits Of poor unfortunate
Poe. there could have been but one opinion
in relation to this exalted tribute to his
genius. Mr.. Thompson has a voice OF much
sweetness, which, combined with a graceful
manner. and a purity Of diction unsurpass-
ed, renders him one Of the most attractive
speakers of tie day, and if he could be in
duced to repeat this brilliant discourse IN
your midst, | am sure that your citizens
would Join me in the opinions have here
expressed. ;.
4 lecture on Fools, by DR.. Bagby, alias
"Moziz Addums," is announced to be dellv-
cred here on Tuesday, Sth inst, and doubt
less q large crowd will be in attendance to
learn what he may have 10 say on this novel
subject, as from the reputation he has ac-
CURED, humorous treat may be expected
Ills cards Of admission bear the following
inscription: Lecture on FOols-admlt one. -
1t has been raining here steadily for two
days, and at the present, it bids fair for
many more, which is almost equivalent to
suspension of outdoor business for the time;
and as the rain is accompanied by cold
north east wind, it must very much rctard
vegetation. IL.
"a NATIONAL UNION ORGANIZATION can
alone save the country" says the New York
Express:
These signs of the times only 60 to show,
more and more, the absolute necessity of
great Constitutional Union Party, now in
process of formation, quietly but SURELY
With Democratic party South, and Dem
ocratc party North-each at open enmlty
with the other-how long will it be before
the national element will be as thoroughly
eliminated from it as it is already eliminated
from Rebublicansm 4 national Union
organization can alone save the country from