VOL. V/ NO. 252. 16pp. [673-688], ills., measuring 16 x 11.5”.Neatly taped, front & rear, on left margin. Exhibits light yellowing, soiling at extremities, & chipping a corners. Rear page displays 6” tear inward from upper left margin. Else VG. 

This early war issue was published two weeks prior to General Grant’s maiden fight at the Battle of Belmont [November 7, 1861]. Cover illustrations feature “A night Reconnaissance On the Potomac,” and a bust sketch of Lieutenant Braine, U.S.N., commander of the U.S. steamer “Monticello”. 

Interior illustrations include a full-page sketch of Monticello shelling rebels ashore at Hatteras inlet, October 5, 1861. Also a double page naval spread of ships at anchor—“Our New Gunboats” [above]: Chippewa, Scioto, Ithaca, Winona, Ottawa, Pembinn, Senaca, Unadill, Sagamore, Taoma—“Merchant Steamers Converted into Gunboats” [below]: Nashville, Alabama, Quaker City, St. Jago de Cuba, Mount Vernon, Massachusetts, South Carolina, Florida, De Sota, Augusta, James Adger, Monticello, Bienville, Blenville, R.R. Cuyler. 

Editorially, this issue addresses the question of  “why the war moves slowly”, and counsels patience. To the editors, given the vast extent of territory and ocean covered by war, the slowness of military and naval operations to date is not surprising. In other words, it is still a bit early [in October to become overly disgusted with General McClellan’s sluggishness]. 

Solid wartime newspaper collectible.