The Diary of Sarah Espy, 1866, Cherokee, Alabama http://files.usgwarchives.net/al/cherokee/history/espy_diary_7.txt ======================================================================== USGENWEB NOTICE: All documents placed in the USGenWeb Archives remain the property of the contributors, who retain publication rights in accordance with US Copyright Laws and Regulations. In keeping with our policy of providing free information on the Internet, these documents may be used by anyone for their personal research. They may be used by non-commercial entities so long as all notices and submitter information is included. These electronic pages may NOT be reproduced in any format for profit. Any other use, including copying files to other sites, requires permission from the contributors PRIOR to uploading to the other sites. The submitter has given permission to the USGenWeb Archives to store the file permanently for free access. This file was contributed and copyrighted by: Martha Lyle ==================================================================== September 2003 Original of this diary is held at the Alabama Department of Archives and History (ADAH), Montgomery, Alabama. Transcribed by Martha Lyle and used with permission from ADAH. SARAH R. ESPY, PRIVATE JOURNAL 1859-1868 Alabama Department of Archives and History, Montgomery, Alabama January 1866 1. New-year's day. Rainy and cold; cut out a good deal of work and commenced sewing. Thos. called twice today. 2. Inclement day; making pants of F. Brewer. 3. Very cold; making pants for Virgil; T. goes this evening to officiate at the marriage of A. Thornton and Miss Turner. Tomorrow he will do the same for P. Hays, and Miss Shew. 4 and 5. Still severely cold; B. went this evening to TŐs. They were at Mr. HaysŐs today to dinner except W. Campbell. 6. Thawing some; went to Yellow-Creek with T. & G. Bearden; T. who is pastor now preached from the Parable of the Prodigal Son. 7. 1st Sabbath. Cold; B. and Virgil went to Church; this evening she, and I went to Thos. Susie was wild with delight on seeing us and wished to come home with us. We miss her much here. Everything is so quiet with only B., Virgil, and I. 8. Cloudy morning, but cleared off and is getting very cold; the boys resumed oat- sowing 9. Very cold; VirginiaŐs birthday; John came today and borrowed the Corn- sheller; I did a regular-days-washing for the first time in my life; it was not the dreadful job I always took it to be. We had 3 large pots and warmed all the water we used. Dick very badly off with pain in the hip. 10. Severe morning; Dick not much better; V. went to a house-raising at Mr. BeardenŐs. 11. Cold. L. and I spent this day with Mrs. Truitt very pleasantly; she looks badly for her health has not been good, but she is cheerful. It is five months today since the Captain's death. 12. Commenced raining; Dick still bad off; T. called; this evening Lieut. P. 13. Cloudy; preparing for stockings; T. called; this evening Lieut. P. Mr. Brewer witnessed the signing of the contract between me and Dick. The Lieut. informed that Congress has passed a law confiscating our lands after the present year but that it was vetoed by the President. It seems, they are determined to ruin the South, and perhaps, the sooner the better. The good Lord help us. 14. 2nd Sabbath. Some appearance of fair weather this morning; B. went to stay with L. as T. has an appointment today; raining again; Dick much better. 15. Rainy. 16. Still inclement; Dick improving. 17. Clear and cold; we washed today; the boys resumed plowing, but Dick cannot half work; Cousin Agnes and boys dined here. 19. Pleasant; J. Trippe dined here; T. called this morning. 20. Cold. Lizzie called this evening. 21. 3rd Sabbath. Very cold; I am reading Brnyan's Holy-War, and thoŐ I have read it often before yet it seems new to me now. It was my MotherŐs book and each word in it has been looked on by her eyes that have long been coffin-dust. Went with B. this to Mrs. CampbellŐs who, with her son-in-law Mr. Battles has moved to the next place above us on the road. 22. Still cold; killed our shoats today; Dick still hardly able to get about. They weighed a little short of 30 lbs. We have over 400 lbs of meat which with our milk and butter will be sufficient. 23. Warmer; we finished the lard and sausage-meat getting on finely with it. Mrs. Isham called today. 24. Rainy; made souse meat; Mrs. F. Hale sent me a coat to make. 25. Cloudy; sewing on the coat; B. went to T.'s this evening. 26. Still cloudy; T. called this morning; B. staid with L. tonight. 27. Rainy morning; Mr. Hale came this evening for the coat. 28. 4th Sabbath. Still cloudy; Virgil went to Cedar Hill. Mr. Wilder called this evening. 29. Clear and cold; Mrs. Truitte spent the day here. John brought the corn- sheller home; had the children with; he also a web of flannel for me to weave for Virginia. 30. Fine weather; preparing the flannel. 31. Cold clear day; T. brought Susie over to stay awhile, as her mother wished to wean her before warm weather. February 1866 1. Very cold morning; washing-day; Susie is perfectly contented here and in fact, more quiet I presume than if at home. 2. Cold; B. and L went over the river to visit Mrs. McGhee; L. took Susie home with her this evening, which I think was silly as she was doing so well here; T. wished her at home however. Turned warmer, and this evening late a shower. Mrs. Campbell called; finished the flannel. 3. Very cold but clear; I went to Hale's this morning, bought a few things, and also to Yellow-Creek. A goodly number out considering the day. 4. 1st Sabbath. Snowing this morning and severely cold; V. went to Church but no preaching; Jane and her husband came to see us to day; I sent the cloth to V. by her as she lives near by. 5 Snowing lightly this morning. 6. Rainy; I went over to T.Ős this evening; rainy night. 7. Cloudy; wrote letters to M. and Mr. Yarbrough, to send by the new Boat Undine which is to carry the Mail. Mrs. Hale's sent a coat to make. 8. Still inclement; worked on the coat. 9. Clear and cold morning, but fine day. 10. Fine day; there is that feeling which reminds one of spring; finished the coat, T. called this evening; his mare is not doing well. 11. 2nd Sabbath. Cloudy and warm; B. went to stay with L. who is alone to day; rainy afternoon and night. A strolling-woman and her children staid here to night. I did not like it, but as it was raining I could not do otherwise. 12. Cloudy; B. came early and brought Susie with her. 13. Fine warm day; Thos. birth-day. Our pet-sheep has a lamb I see. L., Mrs. Campbell, Mrs. Battles, spent the afternoon here. L. took Susie home. 14. Cloudy and soon commenced raining; we washed however. Virgil in running a mule this evening had the misfortune to get badly hurt. She fell with him and in falling he sprained both wrists. I had Mr. Rudd to come and bleed him, I feared at first his left wrist was broke. Getting cold. 15. Very cold and windy; as disagreeable a day as I ever knew I think. V.'s. arm pains him a good deal. We poultice with egg and flour. 16. The hardest weather yet; VirgilŐs arm some better. Thos. called. 17. Still very cold; V. improving; I called this evening at Mrs. B.'s 18. 3rd Sabbath. A close rainy day and cold too. 19. Still rainy; T. called. 20 and 21. Pleasant; I wish much to sow seeds, but my ground is not ready. 22. Pretty day; B. staid to night with Lizzie as T. has to attend an ordination. 23. Inclement; J. T. came after me this evening to stay with V. who gave birth to a daughter last night. Both are doing well. He brought Vivia to stay with B. during my absence; hard rains to night. 24. Tremendous rains this morning; clearing off this evening and getting very cold; V. and babe doing finely. 25. 4th. Sabbath. Very cold day; Mr. Trippe and daughters, Mrs. Lybass, Miss Sandford in this evening. 26. and 27. Pretty moderate weather; Mr. McSpadden, the Misses Trippe here this evening; V. is doing as well as I could wish; the babe too. 28. Fine weather; I sat awhile at Mr. T.Ős this morning; Mrs. Wood visited here this evening. March 1866 1. Mild pretty day; March has come in as a lamb. 2. Fine weather; John brought me home this morning; found all well; Lizzie and Susie spent the day here; she and B. went to Dublin. I sowed a good many seeds this evening. 3. Warm; Virgil's birthday; John came after B. this morning as the hired girl will leave tonight. She (B.) will go down tomorrow; T. and myself went to Yellow Creek. Two received in the church 4. 1st Sabbath. Cold; went with B. and V. to church; Communion-day; Mr. Wilder came home with us; J. T. came, and B. went home with him. 5. Clear and cold; Bens. Hale brought a girl to me today to stay with me for her victuals and clothes. She is 10 yeas old and can help very much if she will. Sowed beet-seeds this evening. 6. Still pleasant; my new girl indulges in protracted fits of crying to go home, otherwise she does very well; is handy and pretty brisk. 7. and 8. Still clear and getting very dry; Mrs. Campbell, Mrs. Battles here this morning. I have Julia spinning. She does pretty well on a coarse-thread. 9. 10. Very dry and cold; this afternoon Julia ran away and went home I suppose. I hardly think she will stay here contentedly as there are no children. 11. 2nd Sabbath. Fine day; V. went to Thos. this morning; Alfred Espy and Cynthia Hays marries this morning; T. officiating at the ceremony. 12. Cloudy; I tried to reason with Dick on some of his neglect of duty but he flew in a passion and would hear none of it; he thinks that being free makes him free indeed; nothing to do but what he chooses. He may find out better after a while. Tonight B. Hale brought the girl back; I was very careless about it, in fact I had rather she had not returned for I suppose she will be troublesome. I think those who have the least to do with the negroes will be the best off. 13. Cloudy and warm; the wild geese are going over now, but I fear we will have cold weather yet. It is too warm for the season. T. came with Susie. 14. 15. Still cloudy and warm; my seeds are coming up finely and some of the orchard fruits are blooming. B. returned this evening; left V. and babe well, the children came here, but then Pa. took them back with him. 16. Fine warm day; washed today; remodeling the garden walks. 17. Cold and windy; L. came by on her way to Shady Grove and left Susie here. 18. 3rd Sabbath. A more pleasant day than I expected; B. and V. went to Concord to hear the new preacher Parson Hood, I let Julia go home today but she has not returned. 19. Fine day; J. returned this morning with one of her sisters, but she ran off again after her sister. Her mother came afterwards, and says she will compel her to return and stay but I doubt it much. Columbus's birth-day. 20. Fine warm day; set out things in the yard; Julia returned this evening at night. I sent by T. and got 1/2 bushel Irish - potatoes. Rain to night. 21. Tremendous rains from the east; sun crossing the line; one year ago tonight Marcellus reached home from Prison. I feel thankful that our situation is so much more peaceful than it was then but we were happy that night Ňas we well could be.Ó 22. Warm fine day; L. came with Susie this evening. 23. Rainy morning. 24. Fine clear day; B. went to T.'s this evening. 25. 4th Sabbath. Clear, cool and windy; L. came and leaving Susie, went with B. to Cedar Hill; Virgil also; Julia ran away again this morning but soon returned. I have no idea she will do much good here for when ever she take the notion, she will go home. Mr. Wilder and Mrs. Howard came with the girls to dinner. Getting cloudy and colder. 26. Rainy and uncomfortably cool; we find that our sweet - potato- seed which we put up in dry sand and thought they were so safe are nearly all rotten; this is bad for there are not any to be had. 27. Cloudy; bedded about 1 bushel of potatoes which are all we have. Visited Mrs. Rudd this evening. 28. Inclement; I was sent for tonight by Mrs. B. and before morning she gave birth to a son --- illegitimate child.--- This is a bad thing. She is an ignorant and weak-minded woman, but, she knew better than that. Has a large circle of relatives who deplore her fall. 29. Rainy and uncomfortably cool. Called in this evening to see Mrs. B. She must not be neglected, and I think, will not, -- all the neighbors are calling,- --for her husband's sake. 30. Hard ice this morning; Good Friday; planted beans,cucumbers, squash. A total eclipse of the moon tonight, drew in web of jeans for summer wear today. Corn-planting. 31. Still cool; B. went to church to day; Jane came this evening. April 1866 1. 1st Sabbath. Pleasant day; I went church; V. also; T. preached to a good congregation; went with B. to take Susie home this evening . Psalms (?) and 11th verse 2. Fine weather; busy with the weaving. 3. Warm for the season; the sixth anniversary of my brother Horace's death; How time flies, and leaves but little trace of good behind, L. here this evening. 4. Very warm; planted Irish - potatoes this evening. 5. Warm as summer it seems; shaped a hat for Virgil to day. 6. Fine but too dry; planted grape-cuttings; I put bones at the roots of my vines as it is said to be the best manure for them. Cloudy; the boys worked on the road today. 7. Slight rain; I transplanted a pink Dahlia this morning putting charcoal at the root to see if I can produce a crimson. I never heard of the experiment being tried on the Dahlia, but it will change the Rose; hard rain this evening and very cool. 8. 2nd Sabbath. Rainy morning, but seems like clearing up; B. went to stay with L. as this is T.Ős day to preach on the mountain; very cool, in fact disagreeable, the cattle appear to suffer more than during winter, B. brought Susie home with her. This seems more like home to her. We covered our things tonight for I fear we shall have frost. 9. Still cool; Mrs. B. sent for me to day as her babe is sick, I found it very sick indeed, L. came this evening and took Susie home. 10. Cool; had house-washing today and scalding. I did more at it today than I ever did before. Cloudy. 11. 12. Pleasant; busy; got out the jeans this evening. 13. Fine day; washed today; I visited Mrs. Campbell and Mrs. Battles this evening; looked a little for Olivia and Marcellus, but they came not. 14. Pretty day; worked a good deal in the garden which never looker better; O. and M. came this evening. Her health is not much better; she is however, taking medicine which I hope will improve her, M. does not look so well as when he left; complains of his back a good deal. They left all well in Georgia 15. 3rd Sabbath. Rainy; O. and M. went to Thos. this evening and brought Susie home with them, T. went to Shady Grove yesterday. 16. Warm; I went with T. to RoseŐs Spring as it is Tax Assessing, but the Assessor did not come, I had the misfortune to lose my cloak. T. took Susie home with him this evening. O. and M. went to see Virginia. 17. Showery; making pants for M. They returned this evening. 18. Still showery; T. went to Centre to get cotton-seed for us, but did not succeed, we will have to send to Cedar Bluff tomorrow to get some, I went with O. to Mr. HaleŐs this evening. M. came by there, he had been for the doctor as Susie is quite sick; O. remained at Mr. Hale's. I went on to T.'s and found Susie very sick indeed; does not notice anything. She thinks it is worms and gave her Calomel. Had no effect on her and she grew worse all tie time; we did not lie down all night except Mrs. Campbell. She lay in a seeming stupor and could not be roused. We did all we could for her, but that was all nothing in her fearful disease and she died about 3 oŐclock. Thus had ended the life of one of the most interesting children I ever saw, she was possessed of a most astonishing intellect and was a general favorite. She was sick about 24 hours. It could be only Inflammation of the Brain and Congestion. This is a severe stroke on us all, but particularly so to her parents. 19. Showery; I came home after the neighbors began to come in. She is to be buried here tomorrow morning, V. went to Cedar Bluff after cotton seed, and to let the McNeely family know it who live there, Miss E. Patterson called this evening. O. returned from T.'s and B. went to spend the night. The boys were there till after after midnight 20. Still showery; we buried Susie early; Service by Mr. McNeely. A good many of the neighbors present. Mr. Mcn. and Kate, T. and L. remained to dinner. It is a desolate home to which they return now, for as Thom. says "the light of that home has gone out.Ó She was his idol and now he is Punished for it. O. getting ready to leave in the morning. 21. Cloudy, but they would start home; we planted Beans; hard and continued rains this evening. A bad time for O. and M. to travel. 22. 4th Sabbath. Still rainy; V. went to Cedar Hill; I went with B. this evening to see how L. is getting on. The air is full of perfume; the honeysuckle and the fragrant Crab-apple lined the way over there; I wished for some to decorate Susie with in her coffin; we used the white jonquil and the Star of Bethlehem which is also white, L. was not at home; gone we supposed to someone to stay with her as T. has gone to Mill Creek, It is a desolate looking place now. We did not see Susie, the sound of her chirping voice and little pattering feet will be heard here no more forever. We staid till nearly night, but L. did not come, she will have company no doubt; hard rains again to night 23. Showery; L. and Mrs. Bearden, who staid with her came this morning, B. went home with them as it is uncertain whether T. will come home today or no, there has been so much rain the waters are up. Set out cabbage plants this evening. 24. Seems like being clear; B. came home; T. returned yesterday with Kate Reeves who will stay this week with L. Washed and made soap and planted my indigo and also, mine and B.'s cotton- patch. 25. Fine weather; planting cotton; B. went with the family at Thos. to a singing at Mr. Bearden's. 26. Pretty day; warped and drew in a dress for Berenice. L. and Kate this evening; K. spent the night with us. 27. Still fine weather; finished the cotton and planted sugar-corn. 28. Warm; T. called this morning; I visited Mrs. Jones this evening. 29. 5th Sabbath. Fine warm morning; B. and V. went to Yellow Creek. Parson Glazner preaches a funeral sermon there today. Jane and Aaron came up. J. Reaves brought his little sister Alice to stay with L. and took Kate home. L. came this evening, Elder Livingston preached this evening at Mr. Bishop's. 30. Pretty day; I met Mr. Amberson this morning at Patterson's and gave in my tax; also sent to Mr. Bearden's; had a hive of bees brought. May 1866 1. Warm; finished the dress; B. went on the mountain this evening with L. a fishing. Hard rains. Mrs. A. Espy visited here. 2. Pretty day; Mr. Wilson called. 3. Rainy day; T. dined here; helping B. make her dress. 4 and 5. Clear fine days; went to Yellow Creek. Elder Hood preached to small congregation. He came to assist at the deacon-ordination tomorrow. 6. 1st Sabbath. A morning of steady rain; farmers are getting behind with their way to church. L. remained it was so rainy. 7. Rainy; set out cabbage-plants this evening. 8. and 9. Still rainy; I hardly ever knew such a time in May. A letter came from Mr. Yarbrough, Bad news as I feared. He has allowed the people to pay over eight thousand dollars in confederate money. He says he was compelled to it or be counted disloyal to the South. I think myself he could have managed better. It is a fearful slam on us, and I fear he will not do right about the land. 10, and, 11. Still rainy; the earth is flooded with water and no chance to do any thing in the way of work on the farm. 12. Clear and pleasant; I went after Mrs. Wilson this morning. I had her to come and divide the pigs I kept through the winter on the halves. Mrs. Campbell, Mrs. Rudd here this evening. Mr. Hudgins dined here. 13. 2nd Sabbath. Beautiful May morning; I hope we will have a little fine weather now, Virgil went to Sabbath School; B. to stay with L. today; John, Virginia and the children came up. The baby is growing finely; V. herself is looking better than I have ever seen her; is getting quite fleshy. She and I went after dinner over to see Lizzie, she and Alice came back with us and staid till night. Getting cold. 14. Cool morning; worked in the garden a good deal. I am feeling very low and depressed from many causes. I thought while the war raged that I could be happy under any circumstances if we only had peace; but it is not so for carking care still follows and multiplies in a most alarming manner, uneasiness about my childrenŐs interest being the greatest. Mr. F. Hale called this evening. 15. Hard rains this evening; it is now looking really frightful, so much rain and no chance of working the crop. 16. 17. Still rainy; V. unwell with cold. Clearing off this evening. 18. Fine clear day; washed and dyed thread. Miss J. Patterson, Lizzie, and Alice here this evening. 19. Pretty day; it is now one month since the death of Susie. It seems like several have elapsed since I saw her, I cannot say though, that I would have her back if I could in this world of care and sorrow; besides I know that it is best as it is, worked hard today and feel tired. 20. 3rd Sabbath. Beautiful day; I went with Miss P. to Concord and heard Parson Hood preach a fine sermon to a good congregation, B. and Virgil went this evening as he preaches again at 7 o'clock. Lizzie and Alice took supper here. 21. Fine day; went with L. and Mrs. Campbell to see Cynthia Espy this evening; she is in low health and looked badly. Thos. unwell. Miss E. Patterson visited us. 22. Warm; warped and drew in cloth for the negroes. 23. Fine weather and the boys are trying hard to get over the croup but V. is hardly able to work; looks thin and has little appetite. T. came this evening; he is better; set out a few potato-slips. 24. Fine day; 25. Cloudy; I went to T.'s; spent the day as L. is alone; T. went to Mill Creek, taking Alice home as he goes, a steady morningŐs rain. I came home this evening and B. went to stay with her; poor thing; she feels so badly since Susie died. I felt badly to be there and miss the little thing. 26. Tremendous rains this morning; looks a little like clearing off this evening. 27. 4th Sabbath. Hard rain this morning; L. spent the day here; B. went home with her. 28. Fine day. 29. Fine cool weather; I went with L. to visit Mrs. F. Hale, but she was not at home. 30. Fine weather; Miss A. Patterson came this afternoon and B. went with her to visit at Thomas's. He brought Alice back with him. 31. Still fine weather; went with L. to the Store this evening; bought only a few articles. They have but few goods; Mrs. Hudgens, Miss R. Rudd here this evening. The white Lilly and Dahlia is now in their fullest glory and beautiful they are. June 1866 1. Fine weather; the boys make the most of it trying to get over the croup; T. called this evening. 2. Hard rains this morning and again this evening. We witnessed near sunset the most beautiful double rainbow I ever saw; did not go to Church today. 3. 1st Sabbath. The mountain this morning is shrouded in mist; I suppose that we will have more rain. I feel thankful that we are not today as we were two years ago. The Yankees were pillaging us for the first time and our army with my sons in it, going further from us. We now have peace if it is under subjugation. L. came by on her way to Church, B. and V. went too. B. went this evening to Robert Espy's. 4. Rainy morning; it is a bad time for harvest -- so much rain. 5. A morning of incessant rain; sunshiny this evening. Our folks cut some wheat. This is the 21st birthday of Marcellus. It seems too, like it was only a short time ago when he was a little boy. Five years ago, we spoke of him as such. 6. Tremendous rains awhile before day; it really looked frightful. If the wheat cannot be saved, nor the crop worked, I cannot imagine what we will do. Mr. Patterson called. 7. No rain today for which we are glad. 8. Fine day; I went to see Mr. Battles about cutting wheat; he and son helped us this evening; had house-washing. 9. Still fine weather. 10. 2nd Sabbath. Very warm; I went to see L. this morning; Mrs. Campbell with her; B. went to Mr. RuddŐs this evening, Mr. Paterson called. 11. Sultry day; our folks and T. cutting wheat in the Truitte-bottom; Mr. Battles helped us again, making pair of Slippers. 12. Still dry, fine weather for graps-killing, a letter from O. by the Boat this evening; she writes that all are in usual health, I think her own health is better. She says she is stronger, looks better and has a good appetite; and from the amount of work she has done she must be better than when she left here. They got as wet as water could make them the day they went home. 13. Very warm and the ground getting hard; I went to T.Ős this evening, he has been sick ever since Monday; his work in the harvest-field was too heavy for him. L. came back with me, our bees swarmed this morning; had good luck in hiving them. 14. Still very warm; B. spent the day at Col. Hale's. Miss Mackey came home with her; spent the night. 15. Fair and warm; did up the washing; remodeling a dress. 16. Fine day and somewhat cooler, T. called on his way to Shady Grove. 17. 3rd Sabbath. A cool rain falling for sometime this morning; B. went over to see L.; she came back with her to attend preaching but it was too inclement; several showers of rain and hail with wind. 18. Very cool indeed; sowed cabbage-seeds and set out potato-slips. 19. Still cool; Mrs. F. Hale called this morning; she brought sewing; this is a fine interesting woman who will be a great accession to the neighborhood. T. called this evening, to Mrs. Hampton's this evening; robbed our bees, but got little honey. 20. Still rather cool but clear; finished the pants for Mrs. H. 21. Warmer; B. went to Centre with the Hale-family to attend the examination of the Centre-High-School; quite sultry this evening, wrote letters to send to Olivia and Marcellus by Thos., who thinks of going there from Mill-Creek the longest day in the year, but the days seem shorter than in former years. 22. Cloudy and quite warm; T. came by early on his way to Yellow Creek. L. called. 23. Very warm; B. returned this afternoon; had a pleasant time; I went over to see L. this evening; Miss Stimpson with her to night. Virgil went down to John's; found all well there. 24. 4th Sabbath. Warm growing weather; V. went to Sabbath School; John, Virginia and the children came up; V. has had 13 teeth drawn and has now quite a sore mouth; I went with them this evening to Cedar Hill; Mr. Brindly preached; called at Patterson's; L. here this evening B. went home with her tonight. Five years ago today (occurring on the Sabbath) my husband died. 25. Very warm; spinning a piece of ticking. (with T. yesterday evening.) 27. Fine cool day; L. called this evening, T. and G. Bearden also. 28. Hard rain today; John Reeves called this evening; he came home. 29. Very cool; our folks commenced hauling their wheat at Mrs. Truitte's. 30. Still cool; I went to Yellow Creek; dined with Mrs. Campbell; finished the wheat today; we had 30 bushels in all, but the rent and other expenses will bring it down half at least, Jane and Aaron came tonight. July 1866 1. 1st Sabbath and Fine cool morning; T. and L. came by on their way to preaching; B. and V. went over there this evening. Jane and Aaron left. 2. Pleasant day; Mrs. Truitte spent the afternoon with us; she leaves on Wednesday. 3. Very pleasant; in fact it is rather too cool of a morning; crops not doing so well in consequence. L., Alice, and John called. 4. The 90 th anniversary of American Independence, so called; I and Virgil attended the Sabbath-School-Picnic at Cedar Hill; several addresses made but no other exercises; not so many there as I expected to see; called at Patterson's returning. 5. Very warm; we want rain now; light rain tonight. 6. Very warm; Lizzie taking Alice, went home with John; dyeing a coat-pattern of jeans. 7. Still very warm; B. and Miss Rudd visited at Mr. MackeyŐs. T. came to dinner; he is lonely during L.'s absence. 8. 2nd Sabbath. Warm; Virgil went to Sabbath-School; we need rain badly now. 9. Still warm; L. returned this morning. 10. Very warm; commenced spinning; I make a better hand at it than I expected, not having spun much cotton since my girlhood. 11. Sultry; a shower this evening, and another to night; Mr. S. Smith spent the night with us. He had letters lately from Texas and his sister Mrs. Brown and family were well. How I wish I could see her. 12. More pleasant; Mr. S. Hale brought pants for me to make. 13. 14. Still warm; we need rain much, B. and L. went to Shady Grove. 15. 3rd Sabbath. Very warm; Virgil unwell; T. came by going to Concord, a pretty shower today; B. returned this evening. 16. 17. Sultry; we are needing rain very much; the ground is very hard after so much spring-rain, took some honey tonight; had letters from O., Maggie, and Marcellus. All well. 18. 19. Still sultry; cut a Saggne for Virgil this evening. 20. Still dry and hot; finished the coat; making pants for F. Brewer; sent a letter to T. who will go there from Mill Creek. 21. Very warm; B. staid with L. last night. 22. 4th Sabbath. Still warm; V. went to Sabbath-School and attended the negro- meeting afterwards, L. came this evening; B. went to PattersonŐs. 23. Dry and sultry; Mr. Patterson called this evening. 24. Still hot and so dry; started Dick to Crouch's Mill this evening with Mr. T. 25. I went with L. today on the mountain visiting at Mr. Bearden's; rains in sight this evening. 26. Warm; Mr. Daniel the Census-taker called this morning. The boys making draw-bars. I visited Mrs. F. Hale this evening. 27. Sultry; clouds going this evening, but none came here; sent Dick to haul wool for Lizzie. B. spent the night with her. 28. Still hot and dry; we were visited today by a great calamity in the death of our best mule. He was haltered and turned out and in a few hours found dead. I think he suffocated from the tightness of the rope around his Nostrils. At any rate he is gone and his loss to us is I fear irreparable. But one left now; our team is broken. Truly misfortunes never come singly. Ours come thick and fast; it seems that utter ruin is to be our lot. A very light shower this evening. 29. 5th Sabbath. Clear and warm; I am not well. Passed a sleepless night: today T. preaches at Armuchee Church; he is with his brothers and sisters and relatives; may they have a good time together, in happy ignorance of my troubles. Oh, that we could have rain; our corn will burn up soon without it. 30. Still dry and so warm; Virgil started early to Georgia to see his brothers and get a horse if he can; we filled our dryers with apples 31. Clear and warm; had house-washing done by Dick; this evening I went to see L. but she was not at home. Oh, for rain, rain. August 1866 1. Still clear and warm; we refilled our dryers today. 2. 3. Still dry and hot : vegetation is drying so fast, V. returned this evening in good health and left all well; he brought back the mare of Thos. that James had; he says O. and Jos. will be down next week. Signed the contract with Bens. Hale today. 4. Very warm; called to see Mr. Battles who is very sick on my way to church; a good deal of business in Conference today. 5. 1st Sabbath. Still dry and hot; B. and Virgil went to church, today; V. and myself tonight; had foot-washing; a few brethren participated. 6. Very hot and there is a good deal of sickness along the river; spent this day with Mrs. Mackey very pleasantly; our boys are clearing a piece of ground for turnips. 7. Still warm; L. came today; Mrs. Hale this evening with coat for me to make. 8. Dry and hot; heard today that V. and her children are sick, B. went down there as I cannot go having engaged to finish a coat tomorrow. If they are very bad she will return and I will go. 9. So warm; marked closely all day, but as B. has not returned I take it they are better at John's. I am very ill it ease about it. 10. Cooler but still no rain; this evening Jos. and Olivia arrived, she is not looking much better, but her health is improving, they left all well, but they are completely burned up there and will not make any thing. She says M. speaks of going to Tenn.; is much depressed, I wish he had remained at home, I believe he could have better here. 11. Very warm; Jos. went over our cornfield and found it much better than I expected it was; he is pleased to find us well off. M. will be glad to hear it too. He and O. went over to Thos. this evening. B. returned bringing Vivia with her. She says they are all up again, V. looks pale and thin. John was down too. O. unwell to night. 12. 2nd Sabbath. Still warm, O. very unwell this morning, but I hope she will mend after this as one cause of her sickness is removed. B. and J. visited at Mr. BattlesŐs this evening; he is much better. Thos., L. & Elder Culberson spent the night here. 13. Still dry and hot; went with Jos. down to John's; found all up. John missed his chill today; brought Percy home with us; Olivia pretty well today. 14. Cooler; Joseph started home this morning; O. getting on very well. 15. Still dry; worked on the coats. B. and L. went to preaching on the mountain where T. is having a lively meeting; several have professed religion; she staid with L. tonight. O. pretty well today. 16. Very warm; I went to see Mrs. Pollard this evening who is sick. 17. Filled our dryers with peaches; worked on a coat. 18. Still dry and warm; finished the coat today; visited Mr. Rudd this evening, who is sick. On my return found Percy in a fever, gave him pills. 19. 3rd Sabbath. Cloudy; Percy seems well this morning; John and Virginia came up and went with B. and Virgil to Concord; rain this evening and again tonight. Vivia unwell tonight, L. spent the night. 20. Cooler; L., John. and family left early; I went with them as far as Mr. Hannah's to see his sister who is sick. O. still improving. 21. Fine day, sowed turnips in the garden. O. and J. spent the day with Mrs. Campbell; Mr. Battles very sick again. 22. Cloudy; threshed our home-wheat; 14 bushels only. Jane came up. 23. Threshed rye; cut a coat for Mr. B. and commenced sewing on it. 24. Very cool, refilled our dryers; O. and B. went see L. O. remained all night; T. gone to Mill Creek. Starch-making. 25. Still cool; and clear; the fodder is so burnt it is useless; the boys are cutting tops instead. B. still with L. tonight. 26. 4th Sabbath. Very cool day; O., V. and myself went to Cedar Hill; Mr. Brinkley preached. Mrs. Bearden, Mrs. Hays, here this evening. L. spent the day. B. went home with her. 27. Rainy; B. returned this evening. 28. 29. Still rainy and cool. 30. Clear and warm; O. and V. went down to see Virginia. V. returned tonight; O. will return on Saturday. 31. Cloudy; commenced house-washing; Mrs. Hale, Miss Susan spent the day with us. September 1866 1. Cloudy and seemed so much like rain I did not go to church; L. came with (?). Mr. Bankson came back with him; Virginia and children came home with O. and shortly afterwards Marcellus arrived with his cousin Mary and little girl Minnie; left all well in Ga. Joseph is to come for O. on Thursday. 2. 1st Sabbath. Very warm day; all went to church except myself and V.'s baby Mattie. John came to day, but he is sick again with chills. The baby is not well. Mr. B. left this evening, Miss Patterson, Miss Rudd came to see us. 3. Variable; O. went with Mary and Marcellus over to Thos's. She and M. returned this evening. We put out our last peaches today. 4. Showery; I went to Hale's and got lining for a coat for M. He brought Mary back this morning and took her to John's this evening; cut a coat and vest for M. and commenced sewing. L. spent the day here; T. went to Mr. Davis's. 5. Still variable; busy sewing; rains this evening. M. and Mary returned this morning. John, Percy, and the baby not well. Joseph came this evening. O. not well today. Mary and B. went this evening to see Cousin Agnes. 7. Still rainy; I never knew a worse time for fruit-drying. O. no better today, but they are thinking of starting tomorrow, finished M.'s. clothing. He wished to go to Tenn. as he is making nothing where he is, the crops having failed rendering the people unable to pay him. 8. Still so likely to rain that O. did start home. Joseph went with Mary leaving M. to come with O. when the weather clears up. I went and staid with L., while T. went to his appointment on the mountain. O. quite unwell today; the boys got a sugar-mill home today and set it up. 9. 2nd Sabbath. Cloudy; M. and V. went to Sabbath-School; commenced raining; 10. Inclement; T. called for me this morning before day; I took with me Matilda Bruce, a black woman, Mrs. Hays was there also. This afternoon Dr. Matthis delivered L. of a very fine boy. O. came over, and I returned with her. B. went to stay with L. 11. Still inclement but O. and M. would start home; showers all day and this evening a storm of wind and rain. If O. is out in it I fear she will get wet, and her health is quite delicate. She is well provided however, for the weather. B. came back tonight. L. and her boy very comfortable. He weighs 11 lbs. 12. Pleasant day. I went to stay with L. but as they can do without me I came home at night. She is getting on very well. Mrs. Williams, Mrs. Hays in today. 13. Fine weather; rode over to T.Ős this morning; all well enough. 14. Clear fine day; went to see L. Mrs. Bearden came to see her. 15. Clear morning. Moses Hampton, a black man came for the gin I received of W. Cunningham, but as no person was with him to receipt me for it I withheld it. I wish he would do what is right and take it away, for I am much perplexed about it. B. went to stay with L. tonight. 16. 3rd Sabbath. Inclement morning; B. went to Concord; small congregation. J. Nelson came with him to dinner; B. went this evening to Mr. Battles. V. to Thos. T. received a summons from the Probate Judge to appear before him and give a new bond as Aldm., or shew cause why he shall not be removed. He is requiring it of all it is said. 17. Cloudy; we commenced grinding sugar-cane but the mill does not do well. I went to Concord; T. preached to a small congregation and the meeting closed. Our mill broke and the boys are at work on it; T. called this evening; L. and baby very well. They have named him Adoniram Judson. Trippe dined here today. 18. Rain this morning; R. Espy worked on the mill half the day; he thinks it will do now. The boys also rebuilt the furnace. Tonight a letter came from Miss Nanie Smith of Texas, the daughter of my old friend Margaret Brown (formerly). She told me of her grandmother, Mrs. Brown, the best friend I ever had outside my family, her uncle Will, also. How I wish I could see them. It is very sickly there this season she says, but crops are good. They were happily situated, the war did not much affect them. 19. Pretty day; tried the mill again, but it broke again immediately and we gave it up. Sent to see if we could get thence of Mr. Brewer's but cannot any time soon I fear, I also fear we shall lose our crop if we do not get a mill soon. V. went to John's this evening. B. staid tonight at T.'s. 20. 21. Still pretty weather; preparing thread for the loom. 22. Cool; Mrs. Mackey spent the day here. 23. 4th Sabbath. Very cool morning; went with B. down to see how the are getting on at John' s. Found all well but Percy who looks badly. 24. Still cool; drew in our cloth and commenced weaving; Dick helping at Brewer's to pay for the use of the mill when we can get it. 25, 26. Pretty weather; I staid with L. tonight as T. has not yet returned from Mill Creek. Mr. McBrown staid there also. 27. Fine day; and house-washing. 28. Pretty weather; meeting commenced today at Yellow Creek, there is one going on at Cedar-Hill also. 29. Still fine weather; I went to Yellow Creek; few persons there; this evening I helped with our syrup-boiling; Mr. Bankson here tonight, we were in the night finishing. Rainy. Dick unwell. 30. 5th Sabbath. Cloudy; we all went to church to day; had basket- dinner and spent the day: Parson Hood preached the funeral sermon of Mr. and Mrs. Hendreick; Mr. Dean preached this evening. Mrs. F. Sparks joined the church. Mr. D. came home with us. October 1866 1. Fine day, I did not go to church to day; L. came with T. as he went (?) The babe is growing finely. Parson D. returned tonight. I went to see Mrs. Battles this evening who is very low. She sank today under the operation of an emetic, but her pulse is rising now under the stimulants we have given her. But she is very low; 2. Fine warm day; went to church. Parson D. preached. Mrs. Sparks (the elder) joined to day. We finished our syrup, It is but little. B. and V. went tonight as they have changed the order of the meeting . 3. Pretty weather; B. and V. went to church today and again at night, Parson Glazner came here tonight. Mrs. Hudgens visited us this evening. 4. Fine day; baptism this morning at Whitts Mill. Mrs. Hartwell joined at the water and was also baptized. I went over to see Judson this morning as T. thinks he is sick. From there I went to church. Parson P. preached and the meeting closed. Parson G. dined here. 5. Rain this morning; T. came by on his way to the Association, picking cotton this evening; J. Bruce spent the night here. 6. Fine morning; J. went with L. and spent the day with Mrs. Hay's. 7. 1st Sabbath. Rainy morning; B. went this evening to Mr. BattlesŐ. 8. Rainy morning; this evening John brought the family to stall awhile as they all have the chills yet. They are getting to look badly. 9. Pretty day; B. went with L. to Mr. Bearden's, Virginia had her chill and was very sick. The children also, but not so bad as she . 10. Fine warm day; T. came this morning. He was at Centre yesterday and learnt that owing to some neglect on the part of the Probate Judge (McDaniel), the deed we hold to this place is illegal. I went to see M. Hale, the maker of it, and he promised to go to Centre and have it rectified. I bought a sack of salt at 3 cts. per lb. Called to see Mrs. Milhollen and Mrs. Rudd, who are sick. V. had her chill but not so bad. 11. Pretty weather; V. missed her chill today, she rode home this morning for medicine which I think helped her. L. spent the day here; her babe grows very fast. 12. Fine weather; hay-making; V. missed her chill, but the children still have them, except the baby. Preparing wool for the carder. 13. Still fine weather; the sick ones are all mending; hauling corn. 14. 2nd Sabbath. Pretty day; Mr. Bankson here today; John came and took his family home; I think the ague is broken with them for this time. 15. Fine cool weather; preparing for quilting. I went over to see T. this morning, who is going today to Centre. 18. Fine weather for corn-gathering; ours is turning out better than we expected; put in a quilt for Olivia. 17. Beautiful Indian Summer weather. Busy quilting. 18 and 19. Still fine weather. L. came and helped us quilt today. Parson Glazner, Mr. Alexander and Mr. Hyatt spent the night here on their way to the Association. The most atrocious murder I ever knew of was perpetrated on last Sunday night at the ferry of Chattooga River by some negroes on a family of emigrants. A man, woman and two children were attacked while sleeping and all killed, but the woman, who still survives, but cannot live long. They have apprehended two negroes and put them in jail. One of them confessed the deed. 20. Fine day. The gentlemen left early; finished the quilt. L. came this evening; she is afraid to stay by herself even in daytime. 21. 3rd Sabbath. Beautiful day; went with V. to Concord; small congregation. L. and B. went over home awhile this evening. B. and V. went tonight to meeting. 22. Rainy. A. Espy called this morning. He told us it is thought that the wounded woman will recover. Her lot will be a sad one poor thing! Some movers dined at the well today, ten of whom have the ague. 23. Fine cool day. Parson G., Mr. Alexander and Hyatt dined here, they had a fine meeting; anticipating frost, I gathered Chrysanthemums and the most splendid Dahlias I have ever seen. Helped B. put in a quilt this evening. 24. Very cool. Mr. Finley came and spent the night with us; he left his family well. Mrs. F. wrote me by him. They will not return here for some years at least and fear they never will. I would be pleased to live by them again. 25. Ice this morning and seems very cold indeed; mailed a letter to M. this morning, also one for Mr. Finley. Mr. Wheeler called. 26. Still cold. I went this evening and spent the night with Lizzie. 27. Fine day. B. spent the night with L. 28. 4th Sabbath. Beautiful day. L. came home with B. She, Virgil and I went to Cedar Hill. Agreeably surprised by hearing Dr. Ralls preach. He spoke from the 4th chapter of Amos and made a most appropriate discourse. Mr. Bearden came home with us. 29. Rainy morning. L. went home today. Sowing rye. 30. and 31. Still fine weather. Commenced wheat-sowing. November 1866 1. Fine Indian Summer weather. L. called this evening. T. brought a little girl from Mill Creek to stay with her. 2. Still fine weather. Making pants for Dick. 3. Fine warm day. Went to Yellow Creek. Parson Hood preached. The church elected T. pastor for next year, and Mr. Whitton clerk. Cousin Agnes came to dinner. I went to see Miss P., who is unwell. 4. 1st Sabbath. Lovely morning. L. came and went with B. to church. Parson Hood, Mr. Hardwick, Mr. Bankson came to dinner. 5. Warm. I went to Mr. Hale's this evening, but did not get to see him. 6. Pleasant. T. very unwell with cold and cough. A welcome letter from M. 9. Still fine weather. T. here today; he is still quite unwell. 10. Very warm; I went over to T.'s this evening. Tonight the family of Franklin Oats, a nephew of Mr. E.Ős came by on their way to Texas and camped intending to remain till Monday. There is a jolly crowd of them, just 19 in all, while himself and eldest son remain behind to sell their property. The women- folks sleep in the house. 11. 2nd Sabbath. Rainy morning. It has been long since I was in so much company. R. Espy called. Turning quite cold this evening. 12. Cold. T. came this morning to see them; they have come greatly out of their way; T. takes by his house to put them in the Memphis road; I went with them that distance; they still have a long road before them to north-western Texas; may they reach it in safety. John came tonight; we finished wheat-sowing today. 13. Somewhat cloudy. The boys made arrangements for us and went down to help John with his work; they still have chills there occasionally. 14. Writing to M. I went over to P.'s and to Mr. Jones's to learn something about the price of corn as M. wishes to know before sending any. I also wrote to the mother of Mr. Rowe informing her of his death. He was killed on Christmas- day and requested a man by the name of Patman, who was with him to inform me of it and for me to write to his mother. Mr. P. was carried north which accounts for the news not getting here sooner, thoŐ I have known it for some time, I will now discharge that duty and I feel easier. Commenced raining this morning. Mr. Leath the tax-collector came this evening, he is in poor health and has lost an eye in the service of his country. 15. Clearing off; Mr. L. took quinine to avoid his chill, but it would come; he remained till after dinner; T. came to dinner. I went to PattersonŐs and got him to mail my letters. I paid my tax. Money is so scarce that but few are able to do so. 16. Cold and windy. Parson McNeely, Mr. Harbin spent the night here. 17. Fine weather. The gentlemen left early. Mr. Bankson came this evening; the boys returned from John's. They still have chills there. 18. 3rd Sabbath. Cold and cloudy. Virgil went to Concord, but there was no preaching. Mr. B. left after dinner. B. and V. went to R. Espy's. 19. and 20. Cold and clear. This morning awhile before day there came a report more like thunder than anything else causing houses to shake and windows to rattle, but there was no cloud, a meteoric explosion. 21. Still cold. Spent the day with Mrs. Bearden. 22. Warmer. Put in a quilt for B.; went to see Mr. Hays this evening about making a pair of shoes. Called at Mr. Battles. 23. Still cold. B. spent this night with Lizzie. 24. Cold. Quilted during the warmth of the day. 25. 4th Sabbath. Very cold. John, Virginia and two children came today. They are not near clear of the chills yet, but they look better. Virgil went to afternoon preaching to Cedar Hill. 26. Still cold and windy. Mr. Brewer called this evening with news from (Babe?). He is well and sent us a fine treat of apples. Sent our cotton to the gin. 27. Rainy. Writing to O. and Nannie Smith. Mr. Snodgrass called this morning to buy our cotton; he offered .07 in the seed and gives us the seed; I was sorry that we had sent the cotton off, but it is our usual luck; it seems that everything goes wrong. 28. Still showery. V. went to the boat last night, but no letter from M. We got out cotton home today; our part 172 lbs. B. went to Mr. HannerŐs. Made O. matrass and wrote a letter to her. 29. Inclement. Started the letter to O. by Mr. B. Very busy. 30. Cloudy; I am much depressed for troubles gather and it seems I stand alone; there is no one else to advise me. I look around think that everyone else is more happily situated than I am. Mr. Patterson called today twice. December, 1866 1. Fine day. B. went to Yellow Creek; few there; Jane came back with her. L. came this evening. Mr. Trippe is very sick. 2. 1st Sabbath. Cold. J. and V. went to church; small congregation. T. came to dinner; this is a very cold day. 3. Still cold. Cloudy . John came by going for his sister. Mr. T. is very bad. He brought my wool rolls. 4. Rainy. The boat came before night and brought a letter from my sister-in- law in Tenn. She says she heard from M. a few days ago and that he was well. She wished me to visit her very much. 5. Very cold. Hearing Hale had received some goods I went down there; he was not at home. I went again this evening and exchanged dried-fruit for factory yarns. Mrs. Jones, Miss P. visited us this evening. 6. Still cold. Drew in a web of cloth today. 7. Rainy and warmer. Hard rains tonight. My 51st birthday. 8. Clear cold day. V. and children came this evening. Mr. Trippe is better, but too low for John to leave him yet. B. went to T.'s. 9. 2nd Sabbath. Very cold day. L. came home with B. this evening. V. left this evening; getting colder. 10. Very cold weather. T. took dinner here. 11. Still very cold; warped thread for V. The boat brought a letter from M., but it is dated November 26. He wished the neighbors to join in with him in buying corn there and by chartering a car we can get it cheaper. 12. Very cold indeed; I went to see Patterson and Rudd, both corn buyers if they would join. They would be willing if they had the money. Spent the day with Mrs. R. Dr. Pratt also dined there. I spoke to him concerning BereniceŐs account, which I paid on the 5th Sept. 1863, $13. He still has the account open. I was in a hurry and took no receipt. He says, however, he will rectify it. Peggy Ray washed for us today. 13. Still cold. Drew in V.'s cloth. People are much excited about the negro- execution tomorrow; a great many will attend. It is the first one that has taken place in this country; even ladies will go. 14. Rainy. V. and Dick started early to Centre. Slight rain falling all day; he was hung at 12:00. He made under the gallows a full confession--he said the other negro, Richard, killed the man and children and he killed the woman; that Richard incited him to the murder. A good many there. 15. Very inclement; finished the cloth; V. went to stay with L. Mr. Bankson called this evening. A great deal of rain. 16. 3rd Sabbath. Still rainy; the waters are up now; clearing off this evening. 17. Very cold morning. Mr. B. left early; we killed our hogs today. We have 595 lbs for the next, year. 18. Not so cold. We salted our pork, dried away the lard and made sausage- meat. 19. Moderate; we made our souse today; we have had a fine time with our meat. Jane came by on her way to Mills Valley. I wrote to Nannie Smith and Mrs. Brown and took the letters to the office, but had to go to Dublin with it. I was just in time to get it on board as the Boat was nearly ready to leave. Thomas and Lizzie went to Centre this evening to attend her brotherŐs and Miss Mollie Haynes's marriage. Mrs. Campbell called. 21. Clear, pretty day; house-washing. I took Mrs. Campbell some sage. Virgil cut wood for Mr. Hays --- Dick the two last days gins for Mr. Hudgens. 22. Cloudy and cold like snow. L. sent us a treat of the wedding cake. Sent D. down to John's after corn and oats. Thomas Espy arrived this evening; he left all we!l at home. O. wrote by him that her health is still improving; she sent me a nice apron and some apples. I was looking for her a little. 23. 4th Sabbath. Slight rain falling. B. and the boys went to Mr. Mackey's. Mrs. Campbell sat with me this evening. The boys spent the night with Lizzie. 24. Very cold; as Hale has received goods B. sent me to purchase some for her. I got her a Poplin and a calico dress and some other things. Got a dress of calico for myself also. The boys went down to John's this afternoon. 25. Christmas day. T. dined here. The boys returned today and making our calico dresses. Fine cold day, but getting cloudy. A letter from M., he is well and coming home next spring. 26. The largest flakes of snow falling this morning I ever saw. The boys went to T.'s. I wrote to Marcellus and his Aunt and Olivia. 27. Clear and very cold. Thomas started early. I forgot to give him the letter for O., Virgil went to Mr. Glenn's this evening. Mrs. Richardson invited him and B. to a party tomorrow night. 28. Cloudy and very cold. B. and V. went to Hale's. V. went tonight to a party at Mrs. Richardson's. It was nearly day when he returned. A very good many there and they danced all night. 29. Extremely cold. Thomas and family spent the day here. A good deal of snow fell today. The coldest weather we have had this winter. 30. 5th Sabbath. Still very cold. The snow is still lying on the ground. Mr. Bankson came tonight. 31. And last day of 1866. A very cold one too. Mr. B. left early; he conversed with me this morning about his intended marriage with B. Dick who is preparing to leave came at dinner time, of more sorrowful on perchance, than any other. May we at the end of another year be as happily situated as we are now, and wiser and better by far. May our country rest in peace, and war with its attendant horrors be known to us no more.