The Buchanan County Guardian

Correspondence of the Guardian.
WASHINGTON, Sept. 3, 1861.
Friend Rich:—My correspondence was interrupted last week by severe indisposition—a circumstance which occasioned no loss to your readers, and which you appreciated, probably, as giving you more room for news items. Indeed, there was nothing of any special interest to communicate. During the past week, however, quite a number of stirring incidents have transpired, of which the telegraph has already apprised you. The brilliant naval victory off the North Carolina coast has filled our city with joy. When the news was received, so good was it, that it was with difficulty believed. It was very easy to see the difference on the countenances of the Northern and Southern sympathizers. One was radiant with joy and hope, the other depressed with emotions of fear and regret. This latter class, however, to the honor of the city be it said, was a very small proportion of the population. It will be smaller a month hence.
The proclamation of Gen. Fremont in Missouri, received here almost simultaneously, was well received, and added to the general joy. Although an extreme measure, it is regarded as a necessary and judicious one.
Army movements here are progressing in fine style. Gen. McClellan, who is so busy that he cannot acknowledge the compliment of a serenade, is constantly on the alert, and seems to be bending his whole energies to his great work. Those versed in military matters, say that the progress is wonderful, and that McClellan's consummate tact is showing itself in all the arrangements of the grand army. God be praised, that the country has a man who has the talent for this emergency, and who is so admirably fitted to lead the thousands of patriots who have rushed to the defence of the country.
I had the pleasure of witnessing a grand review by the President, on Saturday last, of Gen. Baker's Brigade. A great crowd was present, but I had the good fortune to get a "stand," within a few feet of the President, and had a fine opportunity to "examine" him. His dress was exceedingly plain; his hat (a black beaver) being, in such a connection, positively "shocking." His countenance betrayed, very sensibly, the great care and anxiety that rests upon his mind. Amid all the "pomp and circumstances of glorious" parade, bands playing and colors flying, his features, though occasionally lit up with a smile of hope, exhibited the same careworn appearance.
I had the pleasure of meeting our friend Tom Drummond, at the "National," a few days ago. He is the same impetuous, whole-souled fellow, and he engages with his usual earnestness in the great struggle. He makes a fine officer, and will do credit to our State.
There are quite a large number of Iowans connected with the different departments here, civil and military. For the first time in the history of the nation, the Northwest seems to be recognized in the distribution of patronage, and hereafter she is bound to be a power in the shaping of affairs.
C. E. L.