July 25, 1864
The Charleston Mercury

MATTERS IN FLORIDA. - The Lake City Columbian of the 20th
inst., says: The enemy came out from Jacksonville last week,
in numbers not known, but variously estimated at from 40 to 400
consisting of negro cavalry, infantry and deserters. They went
out to Callahan Station on the Fernandina Road where they
burned some buildings, and then proceeded to Mr. HIGGINBOTHAM'S
where they stole a number of negroes, and committed the usual
depredations. - It is supposed by some that this move was a
feint to cover the evacuation of Jacksonville by the enemy, as
it is stated that two transports were seen going down the river
loaded with troops. Our troops were promptly reinforced, and,
at last accounts, the enemy had retired into Jacksonville.

Fears are entertained for the safety of Colonel JOHN
BROWARD, and his son WASHINGTON, who went down to look after
matters on their desolated plantation, and have not been heard
of since the raid. The Yankees had made particular inquiries
after them on a former occasion. All is quiet now.