The western Democrat. [volume] (Charlotte, N.C.) 1852-1870, 1864-08-16

The object Of the explosion of our mine on Fri
day afternoon the 9Th inst, was to blow up a sap
which the enemy was running towards an impor-
tant' position on our centre. This, it is believed
was very efcctually done, as it is known that the
enemys gallery very close to the point at which
the mine was sprung. 1t is thought that this af-
fair will completely check further mining opera
tions on the part OF the Yankees at this point, and
render them exceedingly cautious elsewhere.
What the Ell 7niys loss was, cannot of course be
estimated, and while it could not have been severe
the mine not extending to their breastworks-
1t is thought that number Of men event up" or
were buried beneath the earth. Those who were
engaged at the time in prosecuting their under
ground work must have persisted, while portion
Of their skirmish line shared similar fate.
The enemy were taken completely unawares, and
were thrown into considerable confusion. From
their running to and fro it could be seen that they
were scared, and partially demoralized, even by
the explosion out side of their works. 1t was not
intended, however to make any attack, though
amidst the heavy cannonading that ensued, our
men poured voliey or two of musketry into the
ranks OF the frightened fellows.
Grant is believed to be muug at several points,
but as in the above instance, he will be likely to
find himself foiled. He is closely watched and
will scarcely be able to serve us as he did on the
30th He missed his opportunity then, and it will
never return to him.
1t has been several times reported within the
last two or three days. that the enemy gradually
removing their heavy guns from immediate
tront5orfld taking them in the direction of CITY
Point. We have no means of ascertaining the cor
rectness OF this report but feel inclined to doubt
1t. At any rate, Grant could have no other object
III view IN removing his heavy artillery than event
ually evacuatlng his present position
From the great dust kicked up in Grants cau,b >.
and the movement of wagous-vsible from eleya
ted points around the city, it is thought that rant
may be sending troops towards City Point, to en-
Dark them for some other quarter Probably
Early Is again disturbing the quetude of our
Washington and Pennsylvania friends, and that
they are calling upon him for aid. He cannot re-
fuse such an appeal, for he is bound to save Wash
Ington if he cannot take Richmond or PETERSBURG
-Peters6u'y Erprcss.
RIcHMQND, Aug. ll.-On Tuesday last the ord
nance depot at City Point exploded killing large
number Of \ ankee soldiers.
Ihe New York Times says large force is con-
eehtratns on the upper Potomac to operate against
the rebels in that section
Gen. Grant and staff visited Harnnr,s frerrv
Private aayioes from Kentucky renresent onta
q revolution in public sentiment proeressina in
that State. Several prominent citizens barptofore
Union men, are now cooperating with the peace
party.
AEoTHER VICToRY-90O Negroes Captu.e5
jackson, Aug. 2.-The following dispatch was
received last night from the Trans Mississippi De-
partment
General Polignac attacked Vidalia on the 22d
uitlmo, killing forty negroes and five whites, and
capturing 800 negroes. His loss was five killed
aad four captured