The Indian children of the west have the following exquisite chant to this flitting white-fire insect as they denominate it : --

"Fire-fly, fire-fly, bright little thing, Bright little fire bug, night's liltle king."

-- SchoolcrofV a Oneota.

Near the banks of the Canopus, or Peekskill hollow, is situated the site of the old Continental village, which once contained barracks for 2,000 men. The following account of its destruction is given in the dispatches of Gen. Sir William Howe to Sir Henry . Clinton, dated Fort Montgomery, October 9, 1777.

"The little army consisting of about 3,000 men arrived off Verplanck's Point, preceded by the gallies under the command of Sir James Wallace. On our appearance the enemy retired without firing a shot, leaving a 12-pounder behind them; and Sir James moved up to Peekskill creek to mark the only communication they had across the river on this side the Highlands."

" P.S. -- Major Gen. Tryon was detached this morning with Emmerich's chasseurs, SO yagers, and royal fusiliers and regiment of Trumback, with a thrcepoundcr to destroy the rebel settlement called the Continental village, has just returned and reported to me, that he has burned the barrack for 1,500 men, several store-houses and loaded wagons. I need not point out to your excellency the consequence of destroying this post, as it was the only establishment of the rebels on that part of the Highlands, and the place from whence any body of troops drew their supplies.""

The Hudson River Rail Road Bridge now crosses the mouth of the Peekskill creek near Annsville, where the old bridge formerly stood, leading to Roa or Rah way Hook. The total length of the latter, which was built of wood, was fourteen hundred and ninety-six feet. Upon the highest ground of Rahway Hook stood "Fort Independence Hotel," erected by Col.