The New York herald. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1840-1920, 1861-04-20

SPLENDID SUCCESS OF THE CHEvALIER WEBBs
LATEST MILITARY MANGUyRE.-There is an old
proverb to the effect that every man is obliged,
in the course of his life, to eat his peck of dirt
Our terrible and trenchant friend, the Chevalier
Webb, has already had more than his proper
share in the peculiar vocation alluded to; but,
as it appears, he is not yet satisfied. His paper
Of yesterday prepares us for the most notable
example of the science Of backing down that
ever he, in the course Of life especially de-
voted to the study Of that fine art has afforded
to an admiring public
few days ago our pre,,y Chevalier opened
his batteries upon Major Anderson; and, as
was supposed in the Courier Office, completely
demolished that brave officer and high
toned gentleman. Day before yesterday
the Baltic hove in sight with the COM
mander of Sumter and bis gallant garrison.
As the ship steamed towards the Hook and
became distinctly visible from the Battery, the
graceful figure Of the Chevalier Webb was seen
in the dim distance, receding towards larry.
town, whether to hold converse with the
shades of Andre, Arnold, Paulding or Van
Wart, we cannot say. Hence apmes an
arunt courier Of the magnificent retraction
which we may confidently expect to-day. The
astonished world is informed that, as Webb is
cat his country residence, nobody can 71esk for
him upon SO important subject as IA Isurrer-
dering Of Fort Sumter" Somebody does
"speak for him." however Somebody does say
that he was all wrong; that his differences, as
well as his supposed facts, have entirely disap-
psared; and that "he will rejoice in an early
opportunity Of doing Major Anderson full
justice"
So we may expect that Tie Courier and En-
q,tirer to day will present US a view of
Webb in his favorite character. He cannot
evacuate his fortress with the honors of war;
be has made no defence; he must surrender
Internationally.
This is proud day, therefore, for "Gene-
raj" Webb. The Generals" military expe-
rience has been various. He has fought many
a time, and many time run away. He is one
of those valorous captains who make tremen-
dous assaults upon distant or discharged bat
teries, ard are quite petrifed to find, once in
way, an answering volley. In the case of
Anderson, the chivalric rashness and tremen-
dous vigor of the Generals assault can only
be equalled by the remarkable promptitude of
bis unconditional surrender. The bays Of vic
tory are easily assumed, but the white flag is
at all times disagreeable emblem for the
wearer. To-day, however, the Chevalier Webb
will display 1t fun high advanced Never
since his memorable conflict with Duff Green
the epoch Of the mahogany stock and per-
custom lock, nine-inch barrel pistos-has the
General" seen so proud period in his event
full history. His position is at once grand, i'm
posing, sublime, magnificent superb. His SER
vices to the country are emineutIy deserving
Of immediate notice and adequate reward. We
suggest that MIR. Chase should Immediately
draw his warrant in favor Of General Webb
to the amount Of fifty-two thousand seven hun
bred and forty-fve dollars, sixty two and a half
cents (S52,745 621e); or, If that triHing sum
cannot be readily spared from the federal
treasury Just in these perilous times, suppose
that Mr.. Cameron transmits to the doughty
Chevolier the full commission OF Major General,
end orders him for active duty to the seat OF
war in Virginia. The General" distinguish
ed taert for advancing, and retreating with
equal celebrity, too, will be Of the highest ser
vice in war times, and we trust that the govern
nent viii not neglect to notice this most admi-
rable display Of his peculiar tactics-ihe case
OF Major Anderson. Such public virtue, such
patriotism, such Roman irmness, should be
properly received by generous government
and a grateful people.