AFTER THE BATTLE.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 189, 24 June 1862, Page 5

AFTER THE BATTLE.

Advices from Fortress Monroe to the 16th report the arrival of a committee from Washington to inquire into the recent naval engagement:— . "These gentleman, arrived at an early hour this morning, and at otice proceeded to' iuspeet the vessels in the harbor, and report upon their condition, as also to examine the Monitor, and make a full report to Congress. - They first tooka steamer and proceeded to Newport News, but nothing was to be seen of the noble Cumberland but her upper yards, which were above the water.- The, Congress had disappeared. The Whitehall lay a charred mass. The Minnesota was next visited and inspected;'she-is not injured in any. material way. .The little Monitor was next the subject of inspection. The committee were shown over every part—the various places where shot had strucjj, the blow she received from the prow of the Merrimac, then the deck, the interior arrangements, the tower—every part was carefully and critically examined. The en-giaeer-in-chief, Mr. Stinier, explained everything to the committee. Tne .committee leave to-night, delighted with the Monitor, aud unauimously believing she will whip the Merrimac next time she ventures out. The Merrimac is looked for daily. The committee will recommend permanent batteries for harbors, and vessels for sea : coast defence, on the same plan of construction."