The Situation of Affairs
Last week we announced that the rebels were about to invade Pennsylvania, since which time the most intense excitement has prevailed throughout the country. The rumors and accounts are, however, so conflicting that it is almost impossible to give a correct statement of the true position of affairs. But it is an established fact, that the invasion of Pennsylvania did take place. A rebel cavalry force of some 2,500 advanced upon and took possession of Chambersburg, extending their pickets about six miles on this side. They remained there several days, and during their stay they ordered the merchants to open their stores, when they helped themselves to such articles as they fancied; paying for the same in rebel script. On leaving the place on Wednesday, they took with them all the medicines, boots and shoes, and clothing that they could find in the town, and made their way back towards the Potomac.
Since then rumors have been numerous as to their whereabouts. It appears that they are in small bodies moving hither and thither, plundering. One party advanced upon Cumberland, and took possession of that place, which was afterwards said to be advancing upon Pittsburg, but nothing further is known of them. Another body crossed the mountains into Fulton county, where they destroyed some of the public buildings, and drove off numbers of horses, cattle, etc. The latest accounts, however, locate most of these marauders in different towns in Maryland, and one body in Greencastle, Penn’a, about eight miles from Chambersburg. No doubt much property has been destroyed, and stolen by them.
As to the whereabouts of the main body of Lee’s army, nothing definite is known; but it would seem that he was somewhere in the Shenandoah valley, threatening both Washington and Baltimore. No very serious results are apprehended by the Government from any movement that Lee can make—Gen. Hooker being in a position to check-mate him at all points.
So far as Pennsylvania is concerned, we have but little to fear now of an extensive invasion. Her brave sons have once more rallied to the defence of her border. Troops are rapidly concentrating at the several points threatened, and fortifications are being erected on the various lines of approach.
New York, New Jersey, and several other States have generously sent many regiments to aid in protecting our State from the invading foe; for which generosity they are entitled to the thanks of all true Pennsylvanians.
We hope to be able to give a more satisfactory account, of the true positions of affairs, in our next.
Raftsman’s Journal, Clearfield, PA
