Staunton Spectator

Alexander Stuart reflects on the problems of the Confederate economy, in particular the devaluation of the currency and the inflation of prices. He sees the primary obstacle in dealing with the economic crisis being the inability to coordinate the policies of all the states of the Confederacy. In order to aid the economy, Stuart advocates a national program that will include the following steps: 1. stop issuing new treasury notes; 2. retire one-half to two-thirds of the present issue; 3. enact a specific export duty on all the productions of field and forest to pay the interest and principal of the debt; 4. obtain funds through the sale of bonds, not by the issue of treasury notes.

An article that lists the fourteen acts passed into law by the legislature during the previous session.

A physician describes the symptoms and treatment of diphtheria. The paper urges readers to cut this article out and keep it ready for a time of need.

Discusses the state of various theaters of conflict. In Tennessee, it appears the Union forces are on the move, and a large battle is expected in Lookout Valley. In Virginia, a number of smaller engagements have taken place with mixed results.

Clarifying an earlier editorial, the Spectator reports that a local distillery is actually consuming thirty bushels of grain a day, rather than the one hundred bushels reported.

While an earlier article argued that the previous legislative session hadn't passed any bills of importance, this article asserts that in fact three worthwhile bills were passed. These include measures to provide for the support of the indigent families of servicemen; the outlawing of gambling; and a measure to prohibit the production of spirituous and malt liquors. The bulk of the article is a defense of the last measure against charges that it represents an unconstitutional measure violating the prohibition against any law "impairing the obligation of contracts."

While declaring themselves insufficiently knowledgeable to judge the merit of Mr. Stuart's financial plan (printed on page one), the Spectator urges the General Assembly to consider the measures recommended and, if deemed beneficial, to adopt the plan.

Provides further details on the escape of Dr. Rucker. This report describes his narrow escape from authorities outside Covington. At the present time, it is not known if he has managed to reach the enemy lines.

Ten men from Rockingham County were arrested on charges of aiding and abetting deserters. After three days of deliberation, Judge Halyburton of the Confederate State District Court determined that the offense was not committed in his district, and he ordered the prisoners discharged. The men were then arrested and transported to Staunton for trial.

A recent measure that provides every non-commissioned officer and soldier with a furlough of not less than forty days if he secures a recruit and causes him to be mustered into the army has been a success.

A recounting of the exploits of General Morgan during his career.

During a recent interview with a representative of a South American republic, President Lincoln conveyed his reluctance to intervene in Mexico until the war is concluded.

A recent decision by the French judicial tribunal recognized the Northern states and the Southern states as "two nations in a state of war."

Reports that Prince Maximilian has decided to accept the Mexican throne despite rumors from Europe to the contrary.

A recent editorial in the London Times asserts that an analysis of the latest intelligence indicates "no progress whatever on the part of the North."

A short piece noting that the women of Georgia have contributed 11,818 pairs of socks for the soldiers.

An account of President Davis's decision not to replace General Bragg of his command. It is noted that when the President visited the general, Bragg's behavior was exemplary.

Calls for self-sacrifice in support of the soldiers and the cause to which they are committed.

A correspondent associated with Bragg's army predicts a battle in Tennessee and Kentucky that will dwarf earlier engagements and will compare with the complexity of Napoleon's most ambitious efforts.

The Advertiser reports that President Davis disagrees with General Bragg's decision to arrest General Polk. Davis would prefer that Polk return to the army of Tennessee. However, General Polk does not want to assume that command and desires a full investigation of the charges brought against him.

It is alleged that the "Yankee commander at Murfreesboro, Tennessee" has issued orders prohibiting the grinding of any grain for the wives and families of those who are enlisted in the Southern forces. Those violating this prohibition are subject to confiscation of their property, while the offender faces capital punishment.

Discusses the relish with which Northern papers report the escalating cost of food in the Confederacy, but reminds readers that the British did the same and yet failed in their attempt to subjugate the colonists.

Announces the marriage of Mr. Simeon E. Miller, of Barnwell, S. C., and Miss Maggie A. S. Hawpe. Miss Hawpe is daughter of Mr. Adam M. Hawpe of Augusta County.

Mr. George W. Marshall died on October 3, 1863 at the residence of his father in his 26th year.

Advertisement for a runaway slave named Osbert who was owned by Thomas Reeves of Mt. Solon.