| From the Western Democrat (Charlotte,
N.C.) |
| |
| February 18, 1862 |
| |
| The Object |
| Various are the surmises as to
the object of the enemy at Roanoke Island. Some predict that an attack
on Norfolk will be made, while others think that the object is to reach
Weldon so as to cut off communication with Petersburg, Richmond and
Norfolk. In either case we do not fear the result, as we hope the
warnings of the past week or two have had the effect of arousing the
authorities and people to more prompt action. |
| But should the Yankees ever
reach Weldon and destroy the railroad bridge on the Petersburg road, the
public will be gratified to know that the communication will not be cut
off between Richmond and the South. At Gaston, twelve miles west of
Weldon, on the Roanoke river, is a connection with the Raleigh & Gaston
road -- intersecting the Petersburg road twenty-two miles north of
Weldon. This bridge across the Roanoke river is entirely out of range of
the enemy's gun-boats. Much of the freight from Richmond and Petersburg
going South now takes this road via Raleigh, Charlotte, Columbia, &c. It
is a fine road, and bridge comparatively new, and shorter by 12 miles
than the route via Weldon from Raleigh to Petersburg. However, a hot
reception will meet the Yankees before they reach Weldon. |
|