Alice Davis Civil War Diary, St. Helena Parish, La. Submitted to the USGenWeb Archives by Don Johnson, Mar. 1999 ************************************************ Submitted to the LAGenWeb Archives ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://usgwarchives.net/la/lafiles.htm ************************************************ ALICE DAVIS' CIVIL WAR DIARY (Diary of MRS. ALICE S. DAVIS, Jackson, La., from January 1862, exactly 120 years ago.) Sunday 12 Jan. 1862. Warm as spring. I am feeling so much better today indeed I am nearly well. I dressed myself this morning and paid Ma a visit. JESSE does not seem to feel as well as usual, he has cried a good deal. DARLING has gone to Clinton this evening to see MR. J O (?) HUNTER. I hope he will come back early. He leaves for camp in the morning. How lonely I will be. PUSS is here. Monday 13 Jan. Sleeting! Joy! DEAR did not get off this morning !! He got home from Clinton about 12:00 put "Moro W" in the stable, came in to sleep till 3:00 when he said he must start. But the fleas!!! DEAR and I fought a mighty battle. DEAR got up at 3:00 dressed and went out to saddle up his horse. lo ! and behold! no horse to be found !!! the consequence is he will remain with me until Thursday. OSCAR found the horse and carried him home. (Following sentence unreadable.) Got a letter from BRO. GEORGE. Tuesday 14 Jan. This is trabble weather! Poor Dear Brother this sudden change will go hard with you. MRS. MURE (?) called to see the Baby. MR. JOHN MILLS brought OSCAR home. Pa came home about 1 o'clock almost frozen. No turkey. Oh how delightful it is to have DARLING at home this cold spell.... I amd so glad he did not get away Monday, but the parting day is before me. MAY will miss her pa very much. Wednesday 15 Jan. Storming yet. DEAR has been trying all day to get conveyance to UNCLE ALEX'S but in vain. I hope he will not get off until next Monday! received a letter from BRO. GEORGE. he is in the hospital and is coming home. Oh I am so glad! Then UNCLE ALEX has come for DEAR -- They have gone! I do so wish I could be brave. I know I should please him more. BROTHER GEORGE has come!!! he's looking badly. Oh, how nice to have him home once more! PUSS is here. MRS. MITCHELL and THERSA (?) called. Thursday 16 Jan. It has cleared off beautifully. I hope DARLING will have a pleasant journey. The Baby was so good last night - - did not cry once. MAY slept alone last night. PUSS stayed with me. JESSE is two weeks old today. His grandma should bake him a cake. MRS. GOURLEY called on BRO. this morning. PUSS and MISS MARY NOSWORTHY spent evening. Had a "candy pulling" MRS. NASH, MARIA DELLA (?), and PUSS was here. Friday 17 Jan. Pleasant -- Been knitting on DARLING'S gloves. Ma has been ironing. MRS. POWERS and AUNT SOPHIA spent evening. It seemed like old times to see them again. THURIA (?) is making a riding cap for MARY. MRS. ROBINSON brought her shawl oer. PUSS came up minus her hoop and her sweet- heart face to face. Pa has gone to the Plains. Oh it is so nice to have BROTHER with us! I wonder where DARLING is. Saturday 18 Jan. Warm as spring. MRS. NASH came up to see her boy. She is nearly as fond of him as I am. PUSS, ABBIE, and EMMA spent the day. MRS. GEORGE JONES called this evening. MRS. KELLER gave us one of her flying visits. MRS. JONES brought Ma some niceties. JESSE has been unwell all day. I fear he is going to be delicate. I have nearly finished DARLING'S gloves. Bless his dear heart I wish I could see him. Sunday 19 Jan. Cloudy! PUSS and I had a great time telling our dreams this morning -- BRO. KANE sent us some oranges. He is so good and kind. PUSS and I spent the day reading old Godey's -- MISS MARY NOSWORTHY called. Tis very sultry tonight. I fear we will have rain soon. I suppose this is my last Sunday in Jackson for a while at least. I regret very much leaving my friends -- tis always so-- BRO. wrote to JEFF. Monday 20 Jan. Tis very cloudy this morning -- PUSS suffered with tooth ache all night -- this morning her face was very badly swollen. JESSE cried a large portion of the night-- poor little fellow !! MRS. ROBINSON drove "Mollie" out to "Franks" this morning --- Wrote to DARLING this evening - finished his gloves and they are oh so nice !! I hope he will be pleased with them. Tis pouring down rain. THURSIN (?) called. Pa came home before the rain. We will move about Thursday. Ma is "hacking up." FANNY POND (?) has a son. Tuesday 21 Jan. Cold and cloudy. MRS. SPENCER called this morning. UNCLE ALEX sent word to move tomorrow. Everything is turned upsidedown. I shall spend the night with PUSS if GEORGE gets back from MRS. POWERS in time. I hope JESSE will not feel the effects of his trip. I feel sad at the thought of leaving Jackson. I have found some very warm friends here. I do not know how I shall spend my time without the companion- ship of PUSS. I wish she could always be with me! Sent DARLING his gloves. Hope they will fit him nicely!! Poor DARLING !!! I feel real lonely. Wednesday 22 Jan. Cold! Cold! I came down to PUSS's last night, have spent such a nice time it makes me regret leaving more and more. Oh I wish I could either stay or take PUSS with me, I do not know what I shall do without her- even MAY will miss her. MRS. NASH has just returned from Ma's. She said the wagons have not come yet; perhaps I shall remain another day. I hope so. JESSE is cross today. PUSS had a beau. I heard today that JEFF SPURLARK is at Bajou (? unread- able), sick (foot infection). Thursday 23 Jan. Quite cold. UNCLE ALEX came for Ma and I this morning. We arrived at his house about dinnertime. Ma and Pa went over home to "fix up." I hope she will be pleased with her new home. The baby has the colic very bad. Poor little fellow! He is quite to young to be taken out this cold weather. It seems very natural to see MRS. PORTER here. Oh I wish, I could hear from DARLING. I wonder if he has written! Did not see JEFF. Friday 24 Jan. I am still at UNCLE ALEX'S. Pa did not send for me as I expected. UNCLE ALEX went to Jackson. JESSE has been very unwell all day. I did not sleep any last night. I wish I could see PUSS. MAGGIE is very busy sewing. MRS. WORLEY is here. She will spend the night. The baby is crying. JESSE has the colic again. Old MRS. MILLS is quite unwell. She has an enormous boil on her back. Saturday 25 Jan. Donation Day!!! Came home this morning. Am delighted with my new home. Ma has taken great pains in fixing my room so as to please me. There was very few here today. But Pa and Ma received some valuable presents. Among them was a barrel of flour from AUNT BETTIE and cow and calf from MR. DE LU (?) 16 hens (?). Ma has a nice garden, plenty of flowers. Oh it is such a nice and comfortable place. Pa preached the funeral of a little child. This evening MR. EAST sat until bed time. Sunday 26 Jan. Cold. I wonder how DEAR has spent his time today! A portion of it in writing to me I hope. I am very anxious to hear from him. Hope DR. PAINE (? Not clear) will not forget to give DARLING his gloves. Pa and OSCAR attended church this morning. BOBBIE MILLS dined with OSCAR. Pa accompanied UNCLE ALEX home from church. DR. DORCH called to see BRO. GEORGE. He gave him much encouragement. Wrote to DARLING. Monday 27 Jan. Warm and springlike, been busy all day regulating. JESSE does not seem well. BROTHER is some better... This warm spell agrees with him. Received a nice long letter from DARLING. Oh how much happiness his letter affords! I am rejoiced to hear of his pleasant trip and of the pleasant manner in which he was received. MRS. WORLEY called. Wrote to DARLING. He has christened his new home "Mose-Art Hall" -- what a strange name. Tuesday 28 Jan. Cloudy. BROTHER GEORGE and OSCAR went to Jackson. Sent DARLING's letter, also MAGGIE her tating. MR. PORTER'S house took fire while he was there it supposed by some that DANNY was the cause. UNCLE ALEX and ARCHIE rode over this evening on horseback. She is looking very bad. MISS LIZZIE McQ ____ sent me a beautiful bouquet. BROTHER brought me a note from "NELLIE" she is coming to spend some time with me. Wednesday 29 Jan. This is a most beautiful morning ! So spring- like! The birds are singing their sweetest songs. I am comparat- ively happy surrounded by so much lovelyness. I got up at five this morning dressed my babies, Cleaned up... Oh how swiftly time when the mind and hands are employed! The dreaded four months will soon roll round in this delightful spot. I shall have plenty of amuse- ment for DARLING when he comes. Wednesday Evening 9 o'clock. Since the above was written whole aspect has undergone a great change. the sky is black with the fury of the coming storm, the thunder and lightening is most terrific. Now the rain begins to come. God pity the poor helpless soldiers! Be with my Beloved Husband, protect him through the dangers of the fearful night. The baby is waking. Hiho! I am feeling very lonely tonight. MA and PA have long since retired. BROTHER has gone to his rooms. The babies are sleeping so sweetly. I am all alone. It makes me sad when I look around upon the comforts by which I am surrounded and compare my situation to that of DARLING. Poor dear. Perhaps tis for the best. Eleven o'clock. Thursday 30 Jan. Cold and cheerless, what inconsistent weather this is! JESSE was such a good little fellow last night. he only woke up once and then he did not cry. I hope this sudden change will not affect him. BROTHER is some better. he went out and picked me a beautiful bouquet this morning all glittering with rain drops. Been busy arranging some old magazines. BROTHER made him a bookcase. PA' and BROTHER EAST attended Prayer meeting. After meeting he came and took tea wiht us. Oh that there was more UNCLE ALEX'S and BRO. EAST'S in the world! Tis drizzling. drizziling ! I hate these drizzling spells more than anything else. Friday, 31 Jan. The Last day of January. how time flies! one more month has gone. DARLING has four more month's service in the Army. Oh, May he be permitted to remain with me then. Do I not deserve it after a separation of one year? Little MAY is quite unwell. she spent a very unpleasant night. Drizzling yet. MRS. CARTER sent MA a basket of vegetables and a nice piece of beef. Saturday, 1 Feb. 1862. Clear, but extremely cold. Do hope we will have a pleasant month. MAY is better this morning. BROTHER GEORGE went to bed sick last night, but is up this morning. This morning while MAY was playing on the gallery her foot slipped and she fell head-first into a barrel of water that was sitting close by. Trying to save herself she hit her hand on the edge of the barrel and I fear has sprained one of her fingers very badly. Poor little Dear - - she has suffered very much indeed. It seems as though something must happen to make her suffer always. She has been a most unfortunate child. PA went turkey hunting supposing that so fine a morning would not fail to bring a fine day, but he like the rest of us was disapp- ointed. He had nearly reached the spot where he expected to find "plenty of turkeys" when it began to rain and now it is pouring down. I am so sorry. Pa will not have much of a congregation tomorrow and MA will have to wait for a more suitable day to make her "debut". MRS. NEWPORT sent MA a basket of sausage and a bucket of butter. The neighbors seem very kind. I hope PA will be cont- ented! Sunday 2 Feb. Cold and very cloudy. I do not think storm is over yet. This is a most dismal day. I wonder what MORRIS will do to amuse himself. Sunday is such a long day when one can not attend service of some kind. PA and OSCAR started to church in the buggy but the met BRO. EAST coming for PA. OSCAR came back with the buggy. I took a nice ride. Saw millions of blackbirds. I would love to make a king's pie. Found the woods filled with yellow jesomin. UNCLE ALEX called on his way to MR. SCAILES. BRO. EAST dined with PA. I am feeling very unwell. Monday 3 Feb. Tis very warm and pleasant this morning. JESSE cried a great deal last night. I am in a lonesome fit perhaps it is because I do not feel well. I shall cheer up when I hear from MORRIS. Monday Evening. How provoking! Just as OSCAR was in the act of starting for the mail a dark cloud was seen rising and in a few moments a hard storm was on us. It has rained all evening, so I must content myself as best I can. No letter from DARLING this night. It has become a settled thing to have rain every evening. MA is quite unwell. I am not much better. Yes, I am sick. Tuesday 4 Feb. Cold and oh so gloomy. I believe one could cut the mist with a case knife. What is worse -- BROTHER OSCAR went to the office and no letter from DARLING. The weeks are so much shorter when they begin with a nice long letter from him. Well, I am shure to receive one the next mail which is tomorrow or Thursday. I forget which. JESSE has the colic very bad today. PA and BROTHER GEORGE are buisy playing chess. BRO. EAST sent MA some fresh meat. Wednesday 5 Feb. Cloudy still. I am feeling some better this morning. Of if I could hear from DARLING I would be quite well. I wonder if I shall hear today? I am really lonely, this spot reminds me of our first residence at "Oakwood" when I was made happy as the promised Bride of him who was my first and only love. Everything here carries me back to those happy days. I little thought then we should be separated so soon. Oh may this terrible cloud soon very soon pass over and return to us those who are most dear. MRS. SUMMERVILLE and her niece MARY COLLINS spent evening. BRO. GEORGE and PA spent day at UNCLE ALEX'S. Thursday 6 Feb. PA, MA, and I spent the day at MR. EAST'S and it was a most pleasant spent day. It reminds me so much of the good old times out to MRS. POWER'S. I have become almost as much attached to "AUNT ANN" or rather MRS. SUMMERVILLE as I am to ELLEN. She is a most noble woman. She is an exception. I do not blame ELLEN for saying "she is my favorite Aunt." MR. EAST and PA went to Prayer meeting, BROTHER GEORGE rode over to accompany us. I drove Charlie. Just as we got safely housed a very heavy rain came up. The roads are in a most terrible condition in some places the mud is hub deep. J.EAST came home with us and will spend the night with OSCAR. BROTHER GEORGE received letters from Bowling Green. No word from DARLING. What is the matter? Is he sick? Friday 7 Feb. This morning the sun came out most beautifully. I was sure of a fine day. About 10 o'clock it clouded up and we had three hard showers during the evening but about sundown a most dread- ful cloud was seen rising. We all set out to watch it. It was a most sublime sight. We have had a hard wind storm and as I write this rain is pouring down in torrents. Poor Darling MORRIS. Saturday, 8 Feb. Tis very cold this morning. The wind is whizzing around the house. Last night was a dreadful night. I wonder how many sufferers there were abroad. Oh how much the destitute must be pitied! I wonder if DARLING spent a sleepness night? I fear this spell will bring back that cough. I wonder if there is a letter in the office for me? I should love so much to hear from him. The baby ws very good last night. He only woke up once. BROTHER GEORGE and OSCAR made quite an early rise this morning. OSCAR spent the day with J. EAST. BOBBIE MILLS called on his way home. OSCAR accompanied him as far as teh bridge and found it nearly floating. He will have a most unpleasant ride home. MRS. PORTER sent Ma a piece of beef. The negro swam his horse across the bayou in front of the house. It has rained without ceasing all day. Sunday 9 Feb. Tis bitter cold this morning. The wind is blowing a regular Northeast accompanied with rain and hail.. God pity the poor soldiers in this unmerciful spell. Oh, that MORRIS could have spent this month at home!! JESSE has sore throat. UNCLE ALEX spent the day with us. We are always made glad when he comes. He reminds me very much of DARLING. PA accompanied him as far as MRS. PORTER'S on his way home. Monday 10 Feb. The sun is shining very bright this morning. I am in hopes we will have pleasant weather now. BROTHER GEORGE is buisy drawing up a plan for MRS. CARTER'S new house. He succeeds very well for the first attempt. Wrote to DARLING and mailed it but to my surprise I received none. It is very strange. It is two weeks today since I heard from MORRIS. The days are so long and tedious without my usual letter from him. Oh, I wish I could see PUSS. PA went turkey hunting this evening did not return until 10 o'clock...no turkey. Tuesday 11 Feb. Clear and very cold. PA started at 4 o'clock turkey hunting. Came in about 12 o'clock, no turkey. He is not quite as much of a Nimrod as he thinks. I had a slight chill this morning and sat moping over the fire all day wondering why I did not hear from DARLING. About 4 o'clock the dog commenced barking very violent- ly - something so unusual here that I jumped up to see the wonder- ment when lo and behold BRO. KANE stood on the Gallery. I do not think there is anyone in the world that I rather see than Dear unless it is BRO. KANE. He was the bearer of two long letters from DARLING and oh so much good news. Tis quite warm this evening and the moon shines beautifully. Wednesday 12 Feb. Very warm this morning. I have scarcely any fire. I was equally as much surprised this morning by seeing JENNIE BROWN and LAWRENCE as I was yesterday by seeing BRO. KANE. They came on horseback. JENNIE brought her baby and it is a beautiful little creature, clear complection, blue eyes, and she is the fattest little sprite. They have named her MARY ELLEN. And call her NELLIE. A most beautiful name. I wish I could see her namesake!! BRO. KANE left this evening for FRANK HAYNE'S. BRO. GEORGE has promised to meet him there in the morning enroute for Jackson. They will return Friday. I wrote few lines to DEAR this evening. MA and PA made candy. JESSE is quite unwell. He has a bad cold. Thursday 13 Feb. BRO. GEORGE started very early this morning for Jackson. PA and MA spent the day at MR. McCALLAY'S. MISS LIZZIE sent me some cake and nuts. I hope she will come over soon. I would like so much to become better acquainted. MR. W. AUSTAN of Jackson called this morning. He said that MR. McMINUS was buried today. He was one of BROTHER'S messmates. It is rumored that Bowling Green and Beauregard and his staff has captured by this evening. This is dreadful news if true. Friday 14 Feb. BROTHER came home last night from Jackson about 10 o'clock. We had retired so he made his entrance through the dining room window. He heard that BRO. KANE was not to return until Monday. It is storming and very cold. I wrote one sheet to DARLING. I want to have a good long letter for him when BRO. KANE returns. Rain! Cold! Friday evening. BRO. KANE has come. The 4th Regmt. has received marching orders and the boys are all ordered back to camp immediately. I finished a letter for DARLING. I suppose when I hear from him again they will be enroute for Ky. BRO. KANE gave me a ring sent by DEAR to me. It is a very ingenious affair made of a cow's horn. It is a perfect fit and has my name carved beautifully. It will be useful as a seal. He gave MA one imitation of cernicilon and is very pretty. It is doubly hard to part with him now that he is going into action. I did not know he was so near and dear. I tried to tell DEAR all that was in my mind but I am so startled by this terrible piece of news that I could not write. Oh that I could only see him once more before he goes and beg of him to be prudent. Lord, grant that he may return safe to the bosom of one who loves him almost to idolatry. Church Meeting Day, Sat., 15 Feb. Sleeting and very cold. BRO. KANE left this morning much to our regret. BRO. GEORGE took him to Port Hudson. When they arrived they found the boat pushing off. It was a very narrow escape. There was no meeting on account of the bad weather. BRO. EAST dined with us. He came to escort PA to BRO. GRIFFING to preach the funeral sermon of his brother-in-law, a MR. CROFT, one of the "HUNTER RIFLES." He died of thyphoid fever. It is still storming. The report is confirmed with reference to Bowling Green. This will be sad news to SALLIE GOURLEY. Oh, what is more terrible than suspense? Sunday 16 Feb. BRO. EAST called this morning. MA accompanied PA to church. There were fiveteen present. Oh these Sundays are so long. It seems so strange to remain home all day. I missed UNCLE ALEX'S accustomed visit. I hope he will come soon. I am anxious to hear what he has to say about DEAR. PA heard today that a dispatch has just reached Baton Rouge that the Federals were badly whipped at Ford Donalson. OSCAR has just returned from MRS. PORTER'S she is no better. I wish PUSS or NELLIE were here. Monday 17 Feb. Warm and springlike. BROTHER OSCAR went to the office and brought me a large letter from DARLING. He sent me some poetry (original) in honor of his little son, his "Christmas Gift", his "Winter Flower", Tis a perfect little gem. It is just like MORRIS, warm and loving. He informs me of the death of AUNT MARY PHILLIPS. Dear Aunt Mary. When last I saw you. I little thought we should meet no more! How wise are the ways of Providence! The last dispatch said "We have whipped the Yankees at Fort Donalson." LIET. BALLARD of Scott's Cavalry has just returned. He reports that 40 of that company has sickened and died this is dreadful news. It is horrible! Poor boys. Let us hope they were prepared. Thursday 18 Feb. I am so completely overjoyed I can scarcely write. PA called on MRS. PORTER this evening and met MRS. DR. PORTER and mother. They informed him that the 4th Regiment was not going to Columbus! Oh this is joyous news and I thank God from the depths of my heart for this kindness to me and mine. MRS. PORTER is no better -- MA made her a hoop "just as good as new." Tis raining again. This is the strangest weather I ever saw. Wednesday 19 Feb. Had a hard storm this morning. It has cleared off cold. Wrote to DARLING. UNCLE ALEX spent the evening. He informed us that Ford Donalson has been taken by the Federals and all of SCOTT'S Battalion killed. This is most terrible news. It has made BROTHER GEORGE quite ill. Little did we think we were parting with them for the last time!!! It was hard to give up the fort after four days' hard fight. My hand trembles so I can scarcely write. PA has gone turkey hunting. Thursday 20 Feb. Quite pleasant. Finished a letter to DEAR. BROTHER OSCAR mailed it and oh how good in DARLING -- I got one in return. I doubt if there ever was a more devoted husband than he. BROTHER GEORGE said, "Why, sister, he writes more like a lover, not like a husband of five years experience." He is more the lover now than he was before our marriage. PA and MA attended prayer meeting this evening. MISS LIZZIE sent me a most beautiful bouquet. MRS. SCOTT has just received a dispatch from her husband (The Colonel) stating that they were not engaged in the battle of Donalson. This has relieved us all of a very heavy weight. BROTHER has improved since the news came. Friday 21 Feb. Cloudy. BROTHER has been working in the garden and is much improved since the good tidings of his messmates arrived. MR. McCALLA sent two barrels of sweet potatoes. Quite a treat. We have not had any for some time. MAY and MORRIS have filled the hearth with them and can scarcely wait until they are done. This is the evening of the Grand Tableau at Jackson. I wish I could attend! I hope they will have good success. PA went turkey hunting. Brought home two squirrels. MRS. SUMMERVILLE sent me some reading matter. Saturday 22 Feb. We had three hard showers today. Hope it will clear off soon. BOBIE MILLS spent the day with OSCAR. PA spent evening with the EAST'S. The report just arrived that the Confederates have left Columbus. We may soon look for the Federals at Nashville. The government has ordered 5,500 more from this state. This will thin us out... There are 60 Gun Boats belonging to the enemy below New O ____. God save us. Sunday 23 Feb. Beautiful. A perfect spring day. I should love so much to go somewhere. Everything has such a lovely appearance. UNCLE ALEX and MR. JOEL MILLS called enroute for church. JOEL gave me quite a glowing description of the Tableau. He said they had a splendid supper. BROTHER GEORGE attended church today for the first time in this community. He was very much pleased with the appearance of things, also of MISS LIZZIE. MRS. EAST dined with us. PA has just returned from MRS. PORTER'S. WILL has come home from camp and reports that the 4th Reb. will start for Corinth, Miss., tomorrow morning. Monday 24 Feb. PA went turkey hunting; UNCLE ALEX and AUNT SUE came early this morning. She spent the day. UNCLE ALEX and PA went out in search of guns. They collected quite a number. OSCAR like a brave little man gave up his. He said it is all he can do for his country at present. I received three letters from DARLING which confirm WILL PORTER'S report. Oh, may the 4th Regiment be blessed with a safe return. I would love to have seen DEAR once more but it is best as the parting would have been so painful. God bless and Protect him. Tuesday 25 Feb. Warm and pleasant. We have all been feeling bad all day. I have been remodeling an old dress making it "just as good as new." PA has gone to MR. GRIFFING'S to spend the night. The children made some sugar candy. It is very nice. I suppose DARLING is at Corinth by this time. Oh, how desolate the very thought makes me. Wednesday 26 Feb. We had a most terrific thunderstorm during the night. It has been a long time since I heard such dreadful claps of thunder. I hope that the soldiers were not exposed. The air is so oppressive this morning I think we will have more rain soon. I am very much afraid "WILLIE" will not be able to come Saturday if the weather continues in this way. I wish she lived on this side of Thompson's Creek. MR. EAST killed two turkeys last evening. He sent over for us to dine with them. J. came and took me over in the buggy. I think I never saw such bad roads in my life. We spent a most delightful evening. JESSE was a good boy. He did not cry once while there. Thursday 27 Feb. Still quite pleasant. A great wonderment as we seldom have two succeeding days of pleasant weather. Wrote to DARLING. Also to BROTHER KANE. PA mailed them on his way to Prayer Meeting. I am feeling very unwell today. Fast Day. Friday 28 Feb. The last day of February !! Three months from today and DEAR'S year will be up. God grant that he may return in safety!! PA and MA attended services at the Presbyterian Church today. PA delivered a discourse. UNCLE ALEX called on the way from Port Hudson to inform me that DEAR'S valises had come. Saturday 1 Mar. 1862. Warm as summer! What a day this has been! MR. LOWELL and MISS ARCHIE dined with us. MRS. S. brought MA two pair of geese and PA a load of corn. But to my great joy MRS. POWERS, AUNT ANN, NELLIE, and ABBIE came. Nothing could have surprised us more. NELLIE and ABBIE will spend the night with me. They are busy pulling candy. PA is as much of a child as any of them. MR. S. brought DEAR'S watch. Sunday 2 Mar. I attended church this morning for the first time this year. JESSE was a little man and was above crying. Oh it was so nice! So like old times to sit beside ABBIE and NELLIE in church. ABBIE and MRS. POWERS went home this evening. They will have a dreadful ride as it is raining and blowing. UNCLE ALEX and BRO. EAST dined with PA. JESSE is two months old today. Monday 3 Mar. PA and BRO. EAST went turkey hunting. BRO. EAST got a turkey. We are all invited to dine with him tomorrow. MR. GRIFFITH sent for PA to preach the funeral service of a MRS. LEE ( a lady that was brought there for burial). MRS. CARTER breathed her last this morning at 8 o'clock. Poor sufferer! She is at rest. Her death weill cause many a tear of regret not only by her relatives but from her neighbors. The poor will miss her. She's truly a good woman. Poor WILLIAM it will be a sore trial for him ! Tuesday 4 Mar. One year ago today "Old Abe" took his "seat." What a terrible year this has been to one and all. Will he ever get forgiveness for the tears he has brought? MA and I came over to BRO. EAST'S. NELLIE and her aunt had gone to MR. CHAPMAN'S to see a relative (old MRS. WEST) breathe her last. They did not return until this evening. DR. EAST dined here. He is as handsome as ever. PA and BRO. EAST called on MRS. ADKINSON this evening. I will remain with ELLEN tonight. Wed. 5 Mar. Cold! BRO. GEORGE came for me this morning. NELLIE accompanied me home on horseback. We have spent a most pleasant day. MR. NEWPORT, MR. BROWN, and LADY came home with PA from the speaking and dined with us. She (MRS. BROWN) appears to be a very nice lady. MRS. CARTER was buried this evening. Sent MRS. MILLS JOEL'S socks. Received a letter from DARLING. The 4 Reg. was just starting for Columbus. I hope the order will be countermanded and that they will be stationed nearer home. I have not heard from DEAR'S trunk yet. I fear it is lost. Thurs. 6 Mar. Cold. BRO. carried MISS ELLEN over to her UNCLE EAST'S this morning. I am quite lost without her. It is decided that I am to go home with her Monday week. I shall see my old home and associates. PA attended prayer meeting alone. On his return he brought me a letter from DARLING which informs me that they are at Jackson, Tenn., acting as a body guard for BEAUREGARD. BRO. EAST came by with PA and extracted a tooth for me. Fri. 7 Mar. Still very cold. I had a hard chill this morning. I am feeling very unwell this evening. PA and BRO. GEORGE spent the evening with GEN. CARTER. UNCLE ALEX and DR. PORTER called during their absence. They are going to hear the new Baptist Minister at Jackson tomorrow. I wish PA to accompany him. I wish I knew where to direct my letters to DEAR. I feel lonely when I cannot write to him. I wonder if he received the one I sent to Corinth? I hope so! Sat. 8 Mar. Wintery. BRO. EAST and PA went turkey hunting and fishing. They started at 4 o'clock this morning. Came back at 8 o'clock. MR. EAST killed a fine large gobbler. MRS. McCALLAY and LIZZIE spent the day with us. She is a sweet girl. Sun. 9 Mar. MRS. EAST sent her carriage around for me to attend church, an opportunity that I was not slow to accept. AUNT ANN, AUNT SOPHIA, NELLIE, and I went in it. MISS ARCHIE and MISS MATTIE BLANTON was present. After church MR. EAST invited MR. MILLS, PA, MA, BRO. GEORGE, and I to dine with him and help eat up that big turkey. We had a very nice time indeed. Though MRS. DR. EAST was suffering from a headache. PA preached a splendid sermon to the negros. Mon. 10 Mar. MA is busy preparing for the fishfry. PA has gone turkey hunting. MRS. DR. EAST, AUNT SOPHIA, and MRS. EAST called. ANNIE looked beautiful. She is a sweet little creature. But I am not ashamed of MARY... wrote some poetry for DARLING about our little Bird -- in relpy to his Winter Flower. THE FISH FRY ! Tues. 11 Mar. Oh, this has been such a delightful day! and we have spent it so happily !! This morning PA and BRO. GEORGE started about daylight for the creek. (Sandy Creek) They were afraid MR. EAST would be waiting for them owing to a late breakfast. MR. EAST did not get off until after Seven. ELLEN, AUNT ANN, MA, myself, and JESSE went in his carriage. He substituted his Lordship as driver. We had a great deal of fun teasing him about turkey hunting. We had got about 5 miles from home when to our surprise we met PA and BRO. GEORGE coming back... They said that they supposed we were not going and told BOBIE MILLS (whom they met) that there would be no fish fry. It took a great deal of coaxing to get PA to go back... BRO. GEORGE went over to MR. MILLS to let them know that we were on the way, but they did not come. After a lovely ride through beautiful plantations of about ten miles we arrived at "Sandy Creek." Oh the fun we had!! After eating a lunch we made haste to bait the --- and set out lines. We seated ourselves on cushions to watch them, but did not get any bites until after dinner. PA was the more fortunate one. He caught two beautiful ones. Made NELLIE a present of the first one. I gathered up some turkey feathers and tied them up in two bunches, then pinned one on the tail of MR. EAST'S and PA's coats. Oh how they all laughed... After dinner PA and MR. E. went turkey hunting which they were creeping on a log across the stream-- Mr. E. before. PA'S rifle went off and the ball just grazed MR. E's leg. The force of the bullet was such that he would not believe but that he was shot until he took a good look. This accident made PA so nervous he would not hunt. So we did not get any turkeys. BRO. GEORGE, ELLEN, and I spent nearly all the evening sailing up and down the stream --- once we got off above our Camp and took my linen apron and constructed a flag. Then we decorated the sides of the boat with holly and yellow flowers that covered the banks. We seated NELLIE in the bow and made her carry the flag. When we hove in sight we all cried "Hurrah for Uncle Abe!! Hurray for Lincoln !!!" When we came ashore MA rushed out with a case knife and tried to take our flag. We pulled her in the boat and carried her off prisoner. A little while after we took a stroll over what was once the bed of the Mississippi River. This is bordered by high bluffs, higher than the tops of the trees that grow beneath them.. We spent a little while at a little spring. NELLIE, BRO., and I climbed up a very high bluff. We were doubly repaid for our troubles by the splendid sunset beneath us. All was so wildly grand. I could have spent hours in that spot but I left JESSE asleep in the carriage and I felt uneasy. A little before sundown we concluded to make a start as the fish were beginning to bite nicely. MR. EAST asked BRO. to drive us home and he would come with PA. When all was ready MA, NELLIE, and AUNT ANN said they would walk up to the gate. Bade me get in with the baby. BRO. went to turn around when one of the mules made a plunge, sprung around, and broke the tongue off. BRO. got on Charlie, rode up to MRS. HUSSTON'S distant one mile to get ax and augur. It was nearly dark when we started but were blessed with a beautiful moon. Did not get home until 9 o'clock. Wed. 12 Mar. Rained all night. This morning there is nothing to be seen but water. What a change since last evening! We all feel tired today. MA received a letter from BRO. KANE. He --- had enough now. Poor fellows, I fear they have seen their best days for awhile. Thurs. 13 Mar. Prayer meeting evening. Warm as summer. JESSE has been kicking about on the floor all day. His trip to Sandy Creek did not hurt him a particle. I sent a note to NELLIE by J. I do hope she will come this evening. I am so lonely. Wrote to DARLING, MA to BRO. KANE. GEORGE wrote to both of them, but PA was in such a hurry he went off without them. MR. EAST came by with him and brought me a note from NELLIE. She speaks of coming tomorrow. I hope she will. MR. ALBERT CARTER took tea with us. He bid up good-bye as he starts for the Wars Saturday. We have just heard that McCULHEN is killed. PRICE wounded at Boston Mountains. MR. CAPT. SCOTT is distinguishing himself. Fri. 14 Mar. PA expected to go turkey hunting, on getting up at three his horse could not be found. After daylight OSCAR found him in the pasture. Tis very well that he did not go, for it has been raining hard all day. He would have found it impossible to get in the swamp. ELLEN is to remain all night. I was very happy to see them. We were speaking of sending for her when she came. Sat. 15 Mar. Cold, but clear! Church meeting. PA has gone to Clinton to appear as a witness to MRS. CARTER'S last will. On his return he brought MA a most beautiful bonnet. ELLEN went over to her Uncle's this evening. I am very lonely. I wish I could always have her near me. She seems like a dear and near relative. I am in hopes I will go home with her. BRO. and OSCAR attended church meeting. BRO. mailed letters to DEAR and BRO. KANE -- three in number and brought me a good long one from DEAR. He is well. BEAUREGARD is still quite ill. LIET. COL. ALLEN is elected. COL. BARROR (?) has resigned much to his joy. Sund. 16 Mar. Very cold and wintery. UNCLE ALEX called and brought DARLING'S valise. I was very glad to get it although there was nothing of any value in it. Yet I was most anxious to get it. Perhaps he will soon return, if not it will be a treasure to me. NELLIE and J. rode over on horseback and spent the evening. PA preached at MRS. SUE MILLS this evening. Mon. 17 Mar. Warm and springlike. MR. JOHN KELLER and OLD MAN JONES or Grand Papa as I always call him dined here today. It was a pleasant surprise indeed he made a great to-do over the baby. UNCLE ALEX has sent BOBIE over for me to instruct. I concluded not to visit Jackson at present. I would not enjoy myself at all when I felt sure my duty is at home. MA concluded to go in my place. She left MORRIS in my care. I feel a heavy responsibility resting on me. I hope nothing serious will happen while she is gone. PA has gone to spend the night with BRO. LOWELL. Received a long pleasant letter from DARLING. He said he is delightfully situated. Tues. 18 Mar. We all felt quite lost last night. It is such an uncommon thing for MA and PA to be absent. MORRIS was quite ill for a while last night. I was very much frightened. PA came home while we were eating dinner. He brought me a letter from COUSIN MARY. Oh what thronging memories come trooping up while I - - - those pages. Dear COUSIN MARY! What would I not give to see you. She speaks of having seen MORRIS enroute for Columbus. She said he called and she provided him with sufficient provisions to last him on his way up. She saw my picture and termed MAY the "image of me." I wrote a letter to DARLING. I find BOBBIE quite pleasant scholar. Indeed it is a pleasure to teach him. BRO. GEORGE has been working in the garden all day. He is preparing a surprise for MA on her return. PA went out hunting this evening. Did not return until late. He took supper at BRO. EAST'S. BRO. and I spent evening playing checkers. It is lightning and think there will be rain before morning. Oh how I miss ELLEN. Wed. 19 Mar. Sultry. Had a hard rain last night accompanied by lightning. I think it will clear off without any more soon. I am in hopes it will be pleasant this week on MA'S account. It it so seldom that she goes from home I wish her to enjoy herself. I declare. I feel lost now that NELLIE has gone home !! I can not help wishing that I had gone with her. It is so lonesome here when MA is gone. BOBBIE did not come yesterday. I wonder what has happened ! Thurs. 20 Mar. Clear, but cold. PA went out hunting this morning. MA'S turkey gobbler died last night. PA and BRO. EAST dined at MR. TAILOR'S. Wrote to DARLING. BRO. OSCAR mailed it, but did not bring me any news. UNCLE ALEX called this evening. He is talking of enlisting. Oh I sincerely hope and pray he will not be received. The reason of BOBBIE'S absence from his studies is owing to a breaking out he has. UNCLE ALEX intends taking his letter from the church at Jackson Saturday. The enemy has taken Manasses. This is terrible news. Tis reported that they are shelling No. Ten Island. I hope it is false. Fri. 21 Mar. Very cold. PA went out hunting. Shot a fine turkey gobbler but did not get two. Oh I wish MA would come home. I am so lonely. Sat. 22 Mar. Cold. I have been very busy all day sewing and cleaning up. I want to surprise MA on her return. PA went over to BRO. EAST'S did not return until late. Some of SCOTT'S company are at home. It is reported that the enemy is cutting a passage through to Corinth... If this be so I fear DARLING will be cut off. Oh how terrible is the thought. I must not dwell on it... I shall lose all my bravery. Oh how weak I am. I thought myself a very brave person. Sun. 23 Mar. Bitter cold! The wind is blowing a perfect gail !!! PA and OSCAR attended church this morning. GEORGE went to Jackson this evening to bring MA home. Oh I wish I could hear from DARLING !! I am perfectly miserable. Mon. 24 Mar. White frost. BOBBIE MILLS has come back to his studies this morning. I am glad to have something to keep me busy or I should go crazy. I had a dreadful dream last night. I drempt that PA and JESSE was dead and MA and I were in mourning. I thought DARLING came home and did not know me. BUD went to the office. Mailed a letter to DEAR and BRO. KANE did not bring me any...PA did not get his paper as usual. Oh I fear the worst now. Is it possible they have been cut off? Oh my head. I can scarcely see my lines. I fear I am going to be sick. Tues. 25 Mar. MA came home about sundown looking so well and happy. She has had a delightful visit. I am paid doubly for not going and seeing her look so well. She said the measles (?) is all over Jackson. I spent a dreadful night with nervous headache. I am quite unwell this morning. Oh I hope I shall hear from DEAR soon. This suspense is too terrible. The report has reached us that Manassas has been taken by the enemy. The ---- is cutting their way through to Corinth. Oh this is dreadful. Where is DEAR ? If I knew that he was safe at Corinth I would feel at rest but this suspense. Oh tis more than I can bear !!! BROTHER GEORGE is talking of going to Corinth. All the young men from Jackson have gone. MA went over for LIZZIE this morning. She is a great comforter as she always looks on the bright side. I wish she had come before. MA called at the office. No letter. I feel confident that -- has happened to MORRIS. It is negligence that robs me of my letters. Oh that I could be omnipresent long enough to see what has become of DEAR!! MA and PA spent the evening at UNCLE ALEX'S. MR. and MRS. EAST spent the evening here. Also MR. and MRS. NEWPORT. We had a very pleasant time indeed. MRS. EAST has promised me her three children as scholars. This school teaching will be quite a surprise for DARLING. Little MORRIS is three years old today. Wed. 26 Mar. Warm. I have spent a very pleasant day with LIZZIE. I wish she could remain with me part of her time. BROTHER is suffering with his leg. J. EAST became my pupil this morning. PA and BRO. EAST spent the day in the woods turkey hunting. PA brought home a large one. UNCLE ALEX spent a portion of the evening here. Him and LIZZIE had a great battle with each other. BRO. GEORGE went home with him. His leg is very painful. UNCLE ALEX said that the fourth reg. is at Jackson, Tennessee. Oh, why doesn't DEAR write? Thurs. 27 Mar. MRS. McCALLAY, BRO. EAST, and the two MR. DeLEE'S dined here today. LIZZIE has gone home. I miss her very much indeed. She speaks of becoming my scholar and boarding here. I hope she will. PA and MA have gone to spend the night at BRO. NEWPORT'S. It has become very natural for GEORGE and I to keep house. We have become very domestic indeed. This is a most delightful evening, as warm and pleasant as mid- summer. Fri. 28 Mar. Sultry. PA and MA came home delighted with their visit. MA is looking so rosy and well. I expect to spend the day with AUNT SUE tomorrow. I hope it will be a pleasant day. No tidings from DARLING. Oh, what can be the matter. Sat. 29 Mar. Windy. Appearance of rain! Did not go to UNCLE ALEX'S. PA and BRO. EAST went hunting but did not meet with any success. I was disappointed. Perhaps I shall go over soon. I hope so at least. Sun. 30 Mar. Attended church. AUNT ANN came by for me. It was very kind in her...MR. YOUNG gave me a letter from DARLING. Oh, the joy it afforded. He is well and is stationed at Corinth, Miss. He is coming home in two months. It is rumored that the enemy has all the river on Island No. 10. God help the sufferers. Mon. 31 Mar. I am feeling unwell today! PA and GEORGE dined out. AUNT ANN and SUSAN spent evening here. Oh, I love her so much. NELLIE can not have all the claim on her. She brought me some fried fish. PA fixed my melodian this morning. Wrote to DARLING also to COUSIN MARY HILL (?). Tues. 1 Apr. 1862. APRIL FOOL'S DAY! My scholars have been trying all day to catch me off my guard but in vain. GEORGE sent an "APRIL FOOL" to NELLIE POWERS. I baked a dirt pie and carried it over to AUNT ANN. It was a complete disguise. I never saw any person so completely fooled in my life. I shall remain here tonight -- PA and BRO. EAST went hunting, there was seven in company. They killed a deer. PA brought home a hind quarter. It is very nice indeed. NEWTON DeLEE is here and is as lively as ever and has been playing out his pranks on a poor lame Dutchman. No news from DARLING. Wed. 2 Apr. PA sent for me this morning. I fear we shall have rain today which would be sad indeed as the planters intended plowing the fields. 5 o'clock p.m. UNCLE ALEX and AUNT SUE spent the day here. The field is all plowed and sowed. PA will be able to raise his own eatables this year. Thurs. 3 Apr. Warm. PA and MA have gone to MRS. READINGS to spend the day. They intend spending the night at the MR. McCAULEY'S. I have a dreadful headache this evening. I have been spitting blood. UNCLE ALEX has gone to Atchafflia. Fri. 4 Apr. Warm and pleasant. I spent a terrible night last night. I do not remember of ever having a more violent attack of sick head- ache. It is with difficulty I kept school today I am so nervous. MA came home to dinner. MRS. McC-- intends sending for me this evening. BRO. GEORGE went fishing with BRO. EAST and I fear he will not return in time to accompany me. HARRIET has gone to Jackson to see her "Old Man" -- PA has gone to MR. READINGS to spend a night and go turkey hunting in the morning. So MA will almost be alone. I am sorry to leave her, but would not like to disappoint LIZZIE. GEORGE did not come, OSCAR came with me. I had a delightful ride. MAY, dear little creature, was charmed with the scenery and kept up a continual cry of "look, Ma, flowers," "sweet flowers." Dear little one I wish she could ride out oftener. I received a letter from NELLIE. She intends to come down to her UNCLE EAST'S tomorrow and bring MARY COLLINS with her to become my scholar. I shall see her Sunday. No letter from DARLING. I felt certain that I should hear from him today. MAY is making herself at home here. They all seem to love her here. JESSE is asleep. Sat. 5 Apr. I have spent a very pleasant day indeed. BRO. GEORGE came over after breakfast he will remain until morning. MRS. READING and MRS. BRYANT spent the day here. They are very pleasant ladies. MRS. READING has two lovely little girls. After they went home LIZZIE, GEORGE, and I went fishing (OSCAR home this evening) I caught five fish. LIZZIE gave OSCAR a pair of pigeons. MAY is perfectly delighted and says she does not want to go home. Sun. 6 Apr. Came home this morning from MR. Mc--. Left the children with old Aunty and went back to church with them. Just as we was going in the avenue gate we met MRS. POWER'S carriage. I was so glad to see them. After church we all went to MR. EAST'S to dinner. After dinner MRS. POWERS started home. She carried AUNT ANN off with her. I feel very lonely indeed! No news from DARLING yet. I hope he is well and safe. Mon. 7 Apr. MA and PA have gone to call on MRS. ELDER who is sick, received the news of JOHNSON'S death. GEN. JON-- it is a great loss to us all. I am feeling very unwell indeed. Have been spitting blood several times today. Thurs. 10 Apr. MA and PA attended Prayer Meeting. UNCLE ALEX came over this evening and told me of the Battle of Shiloh. Oh, why did I not guess it before! I know now why MA and PA did not tell me more about JOHNSON. UNCLE ALEX said DEAR is safe. God grant that it is so!!! He is going to Corinth in the morning and I must write to DEAR. Oh I wish I could go with him! I feel as though I MUST see DEAR. I know it is foolish to fret when I have so much to be grateful for, but the hope and --- all things known I am grateful. Yet, I cannot help wishing for him. CAPT. HILLARD was killed. COLSTON wounded. SAM McNEALY has his arm shot off. It is rumored that OLIVER HAYNES is killed and MOSES ROBERTSON wounded. Oh, this will be a terrible blow to MR. ROBINSON. Received DEAR'S carpet sack in it I found to my great Joy three long letters from him and one from BRO. KANE. Oh how much they are to be pityed for their great suffering. Midnight. I have just finished a letter for DEAR and BRO. KANE. BROTHER GEORGE and OSCAR have written some to be enclosed with mine. I hope UNCLE ALEX will not be absent long. AUNT SUE will suffer much anxiety during his absence. UNCLE ALEX gave me some money this evening which was very gratefully received. Fri. 11 Apr. BROTHER OSCAR went to the Plains Store this morning early to meet UNCLE ALEX and give him my letter. He has gone on the wings of mercy. I intended to go over today and spend until tomorrow with AUNT SUE but this rain will prevent me. Oh I am so sorry to see this! I have been thinking all week about this visit, it is too bad to disappoint me so. Well Perhaps I shall be able to go next Friday. I dismissed school at 10 o'clock this morning on account of the rain. Sat. 12 Apr. Pleasant. Came over here this morning had quite an un- pleasant ride as the roads were filled with water. To my surprise I found UNCLE ALEX at home. He was not able to get a boat. About 1 o'clock MRS. MILLS received a dispatch that JOEL is wounded and in an hour DR. PORTER and UNCLE ALEX was enroute for Tangesprihio (Tangipahoa ?) to meet the midnight train. This is very sad news. God grant that he may be spared to his dear mother and loving sisters. Sun. 13 Apr. Cold !! PA came over to AUNT SUE'S this evening to preach to the blacks. He told me he had a letter for me but did not bring it. MRS. PORTER sent a boy for it. Was all enhopes it was written after the battle-- was disappointed. There was also one from UNCLE MARTIN. Dear UNCLE MARTIN! I was so glad to hear from him. I came home with PA this evening after spending a most delightful two days. I always enjoy my visits there so much. They are a gread advantage to me. Mon. 14 Apr. Warm and pleasant. I have a new scholar. TOMMIE WOODSIDE. He is a handsome little fellow. DR. FALLOR and Lady called this evening. Tues. 15 Apr. MR. EAST and UNCLE ALEX called, also MRS. McCOLLEY and LIZZIE. BRO. EAST gave me some money. MRS. McC-- gave MA and OSCAR each a pair of sheep. Wed. 16 Apr. This morning GEORGE and OSCAR went after the sheep. About 9 o'clock PA and MA started for LOURENCE (?) BROWN'S. They will remain until tomorrow. Thurs. 17 Apr. PA and MA got home about --- safe and sound. GINNIE gave MA soem star candles. PA got a fine turkey. I expect ELLEN and MRS. Mc -- will be here tomorrow. I shall be so happy to see them. I am so glad that AUNT ANN is coming home again. JOEL MILLS has come home. He was shot in the thigh. Fri. 18 Apr. ELLEN and her MA, AUNT ANN, MR. and MRS. EAST, UNCLE ALEX, and LAURENCE (?) BROWN dined here. MRS. POWERS intended to continue her journey some where near Baton Rouge this evening, but poured down rain all evening. she took MRS. EAST home in her carriage and ELLEN remains with us. Oh, it is so nice to have her with us. I am right glad it rained. UNCLE ALEX and BRO. EAST went to Port Hudson. there they met WILL JONES on his way home. They say he is looking very badly indeed. He has been quite ill. He brought me a letter from MORRIS. Oh I was so happy to hear from him. MA received one from BRO. KANE. He is quite ---. I wish it was possible that he could come home so that we could nurse him. He is just as near to us as he would be if he was our own brother. I hope he is not much sick. DEAR thinks there will be another battle soon. I hope God will spare those near and dear to me. Oh, May Victory be on our side. 9 o'clock. Still raining, and is very dark. Oh, this dismal rain, how I hate them. I fear UNCLE ALEX got dripping wet. Church Meeting Day, Sat. 19 Apr. Cloudy and cold. MRS. POWERS came by for ELLEN. This morning they will have a wet time of it. PA and MA attended church meeting this morning. This evening GEORGE and MA called on JOEL MILLS. MISS ARCHIE sent me my gloves. they are beautiful and I am very much obliged to her. Sun. 20 Apr. Cold as winter. MA and PA went to church and from church to BRO. EAST'S so I spent today alone. JESSE has been very unwell all day. Sun. 21 Apr.PA went hunting. No game. I heard today that the 4 Reg. was compelled to serve two years more.. Oh how I can do without DEAR two more years !! This is shameful. Tues. 22 Apr. BUD and MA dined at MRS. McCAULLEUY'S. Received a letter from DARLING, also some Yankee's fixings -- some of the plunder. DEAR thinks he will be home in about two weeks. Oh how happy I shall be then. Two more weeks. JESSE is sick. Wed. 23 Apr. 11 o'clock. Cold and windy. Came home with the little MISS EAST'S this evening. Have spent a most pleasant evening. After supper I told MR. EAST about "Just as good as new"; it pleased him very much. AUNT ANN and I have been sitting up here this two hours telling tales or rather "narratives." Thurs. 24 Apr. Pleasant ! Had a very pleasant walk home this evening. A MR. MATTHEWS dined with PA. MA and PA attended prayer meeting. PA brought me a letter from DARLING -- one written on the 16th, the other on the 17. In the first one he tells me he will be home on the first of May, In the second one he said he cannot come at all. A lettergram has reached them from Richmond to that effect. Oh, this is shameful. The gallant 4 reg. has been scandalously dealt with all along, if I belonged to them I would have my revenge in some way. Oh it is sad to think DEAR is not coming home at last. I have had his clothes all done up so nice. well I must be brave. All will be yet right. * Editors Note: Readers may be interested in the 1860 E. Feliciana Par. Census listing for Alice Davis (who is listed by her maiden name), her husband Morris, and her daughter May, in the household of Alice's parents. Also present are her 3 brothers, George, Oscar, and Morris: STAMBOUGH, M.W., age 42, Baptist minister, b. Penn. Pg. 39/#284 M.A., 38, female, b. Conn. E.A., 18, female, b. Ohio (Alice) G.E., 14, male, b. Michigan O.W., 11, male, b. Michigan M.B., 6, male, b. Mississippi DAVIS, M.B., 28, male, painter, b. Penn. M.A., 6/12, female, b. Ms. Fri. 25 Apr. 1862. At NELLIE'S. Cloudy. BRO. GEORGE and I started from home this morning at 9 o'clock for Jackson. Oh such a time we had getting off !! Before we reached UNCLE ALEX'S it began to rain and before we reached Jackson it poured down. I was afraid JESSE would get wet but he did not. We dined at MR. NASH'S. I was very glad to see MRS. N., but I missed PUSS so much. (GEORGE has promised to go for her in the morning.) After dinner we came over to NELLIE'S in the rain. Oh we had a delightful time. MRS. POWERS has gone to LAWRENCE'S. SOVIE GROOM is here. She is a lovely creature -- the most ladylike little girl I ever saw. Sat. 26 Apr. Cold. BROTHER and I went into Jackson this morning to make a few purchases. Here we met all in confusion, it is reported that the city of New Orleans has been captured by the Yankees. Saw MRS. ROBINSON. DR. PERKINS said "we are ruined." MRS. POWERS, AUNT SOPHIA came back this evening and brought both of the BROWN'S with them. MRS. L. BROWN can not use but one arm. It is sad to see her nurse her baby. DR. EAST called, he said the report is true. God help us. Oh what will become of my husband. Sun. 27 Apr. Pleasant. With many regrets I left NELLIE this morning and came to GRAND PA JONES on our way we called to bid MRS. ROBINSON and MRS. NASH good-bye. Wherever we go we meet sad and anxious faces. What is to become of us? We spent a most delightful day at MR. JONES'. WILLIAM is looking very bad indeed. He showed us some of his plunder. We called on MRS. GEORGE JONES. SIS is looking very sad. Poor MA---. It was hard for her to give up her only brother. MRS. JOHN JONES is there. She left her home and ill for fear of an overflow. Called at UNCLE ALEX'S (MAGGIE looked more beautiful than I ever saw her). There we heard that the Yankees have taken Baton Rouge and JOEL has gone down and they are very uneasy about him. God grant that he may yet be safe. PA has just returned from MR. EAST'S. He (EAST) thinks his boy and mules are captured. It is reported that BRO. KANE is dead. I can not and will not believe it. Mon. 28 Apr. This morning PA and BRO. EAST started for Baton Rouge about 4 o'clock. The boy and mules came back safe much to our joy. The Yankees are two miles below the city. So our friends are safe. Among the list JOEL MILLS. Tues. 29 Apr. I am feeling unwell this morning. I had a severe attack of sick headache last night. We heard this morning that our men sank seven of the enemy's gun boats yesterday. Oh I hope this is true. Is it possible that we shall whip them yet? UNCLE ALEX took supper with us. He brought me a letter from DARLING. Poor MORRIS! He said they are nearly starving but I must not dwell on this. I am doing all I can to be brave. I must not even glance at the dark side. Wed. 30 Apr. MRS. DR. PORTER has a fine son! I should love so much to see it. It was born last night. AUNT ANN spent the day with me. MA and PA are at MR. ELDER'S. The Yankees have taken Memphis. I wonder what we shall hear next. Thur. 1 May. We have just heard that the Yankees have captured Fort (or Port) Jackson and have taken one troop prisoners. We heard firing in the New Orleans direction. I suppose they are giving themselves a cannonading. One of the Hunter Rifles stayed all night at BRO. EAST'S last night. He said BRO. TOM is better and if he is dead he died since the 24th. I do not believe he is dead. MA is knitting him socks, or rather, has been knitting some, but she said she can not bear to look at them now. Dear BRO. TOM. It is hard to think of your being sick in Camp. I wish you was here then you would be waited on by willing hearts and hands. MR. EAST said the gentleman reported MORRIS in fine health. Oh I long to see him !! Oh how long must I be brave?? PA and MA attended prayer meeting. I took MAY and MORRIS to meet them, but as they took tea at BRO. EAST'S and did not return until bedtime the children was disappointed. Fri. 2 May. Warm and pleasant. OSCAR and GEORGE have gone to Jackson. I came home with the MISS EAST'S this evening. AUNT ANN is housekeeping. Old MR. DeLEE is here -- had such nice fish for supper. Sat. 3 May. This morning soon after breakfast MA came over here at MRS. EAST'S and brought PUSS with her. If a cannon ball had hit me I would not have been more astonished. Oh I feel real happy now she is to remain several days. I hope she will be pleased with the Cane-Break so she will be willing to come back again. We had a splendid time today. In the morning we all went fishing. After dinner went after sweet-gum. BRO. GEORGE, MR. EAST, and JAY captured two horses. BROTHER'S is a fine gray. PUSS drove CHARLIE home. MRS. DR. EAST'S sister and husband made their escape from the city and arrived at Jackson today. They came from Amite station on a cart. Sun. 4 May. We all attended church today- UNCLE ALEX came and took PUSS with him. AUNT ANN called for me. UNCLE ALEX brought me a letter from DARLING, also one for MA. He does not think it is possible for him to obtain a furlough. Oh this is too bad. Yet I still hope he will come home. DARLING sent me $40.00. I wish he had kept it. He needs it more than I. Mon. 5 May. Had a storm last night and it is quite cold this morning. Our noses are itching so badly we have an idea that DARLING and BRO. KANE are coming. Tues. 6 May. Warm and springlike. PUSS and I spent evening at UNCLE ALEX'S. Saw "The Little Man," and he is a large and fine child. MAGGIE is looking very well. Had a delightful ride. Thur. 8 May. PUSS and I took a walk got some sweet gum. Met MA, PA, and BRO. EAST coming home from prayer meeting. It is reported that Washington has been captured by the Rebels. I hope this is true. I fear no truth. We hear so many false reports. I have been looking for DARLING and BRO. KANE. Oh I hope they will come. I hope HE will come soon. Fri. 9 May. DARLING has come!!!! I belive I am a prophetess; and shall have faith in signs hereafter. DEAR is completely used up. His feet are a pitiful sight. Poor fellow. How severly he has suffered. Sat. 10 May. BRO. GEORGE took PUSS to UNCLE ALEX'S on her ride home. PA and DARLING dined at BRO. EAST'S who has a sprained ankle and is suffering very much with it. Oh it is so nice to have MORRIS at home once again. He suffers very much with his side and feet. Sun. 11 May. DARLING and I attended church together again. It seemed so natural to have him at my side. Dined at MR. McC. After dinner PA baptised 19 negros. Mon. 12 May. PA and DARLING have gone to Port Hudson to attend an election. They have returned. Saw ten gun boats (Federal) go up the river. Tues. 13 May. DEAR and PA have gone again. They took dinner at MR. KIRKLAND'S. UNCLE ALEX came over this evening and took DARLING home with him to accompany him to Clinton. I fear it will make him sick to ride so far. Am looking every day for BRO. KANE and hope he will come. Wed. 14 May. I feel lost without DEAR. It is so late I do not think he will come home tonight. Hope he is not ill. Thur. 15 May. DARLING came home this morning very unwell indeed. It is as I feared. He is so imprudent. Sat. 16 May. PA and DEAR attended service today. MR. S. NEWPORT was ordained. BRO. HALIBERTIN (?) was present. Felt sure that ELLEN, PUSS, ALBIE and EMMA would be here to dinner. MRS. DR. EAST and JOHN are at MR. EAST'S. Sun. 17 May. ELLEN came over this morning and took me to church with her. I was surprised to see PUSS who joined this church today, an act that surprised me not a little. I wonder why she did not confide in me. Mon. 18 May. DARLING has gone to UNCLE ALEX'S. DR. PORTER came home with DEAR this evening. Tues. 20 May. 1862. MISS ARCHIE and MATTIE spent the day here. UNCLE ALEX and DR. PORTER called. DEAR (Alice's husband) is some better. Wed. 21 May. NELLIE came over this morning and spent the day. DARLING and I came over to her UNCLE EAST'S with her. Have had a delightful time. Thurs. 22 May. Came home this morning. DEAR remained until evening. MA and GEORGE and children rode over to MR. EAST'S to see AUNT SUE. WILL CARTER called. DARLING attended prayer meeting with PA, MA, and BRO. EAST. DEAR and I intend to visit Jackson tomorrow. Fri. 23 May. Rain Rain!! BRO. GEORGE and OSCAR, DEAR and I started to Jackson this morning when we had got about two miles from home it commenced raining and continued to pour down until after dinner. When we got to GRANDPA JONES' we looked like drowned rats. Came through Jackson, did some shopping and BRO. GEORGE took PUSS in his buggy. We all went out to MRS. POWERS. Sat. 24 May. Spent day with NELLIE, PUSS went home this evening. Rain. The MISSES JONES did not come. GEORGE went home this morning. Sun. 25 May. Dined with PUSS had pleasant time. Called on MRS. SHIRCH (?). MRS. ROSELL is suffering from rheumatism. Call on MRS. MATINGLY. Saw MRS. MUIRE. She is the same MRS. MUIRE of yore -- PUSS rode out to MR. JONES with us. Met MRS. (?) GEN. JONES and Lady there. Got home one half of 8 o'c. Mon. 26 May. I am busy with my school again. I do not feel so well for my ride. The Federals have bounded Vicksburg. It is a shame. Wed. 28 May. DARLING has been at work on the melodian all evening. UNCLE ALEX took tea with us. Thur. 29 May. DARLING went to Clinton with DR. PORTER this morning. Will not return before tomorrow. 6 o'c. DARLING has come. he is going with COL. HUNTER to make an came from Atchofflia (Atchafalya ?) Sunday on account of the over flow. I would love so much to see her. Sat. 23 June. UNCLE ALEX called. The air is filled with the smoke from burning cotton. It is so sad but very heroic sight. MRS. NEWPORT dined here yesterday. Oh I wish I could hear from DARLING. It is reported that BEAUREGARD has taken all of his troops to Va. 37 gun boats past Bajou Tara ? (Sara ?) in a few hours -- enroute to Vicksburgh. Sun. 24 June. Attended church through the kindness of AUNT ANN who came by for me. UNCLE ALEX called and caught me dressed a-la-mode. PA baptised about 20 negros this evening. MA and I made a start but lost the way. Had a light shower. Tis just three weeks today that we had any rain. Mon. 25 June. MA and OSCAR started into Jackson this morning. I feel like a lost sheep. AUNT ANN sent me "Minnie Grey" to read; it will be a fine companion. I have been trimming PUSS' hat. I wish I had a yard of black velvet ribbon! GEORGE has just returned from the Post Office, while there he saw the smoke from three dwellings that were fired by the heartless Federals. MISS MAY STAPLES has commenced school. Tue. 26 June. We have just heard that CAPT. SAILS house was destroyed by fire yesterday. That makes 27 homes to my knowledge. Oh, when will the day of retribution come. Is it possible that they will lay this country in one complete desolation? MA came home about sunset. Wed. 27 June. AUNT ANN spent the day here. She has been busy helping me to alter a dress. The Federals are drawing near. MR. EAST is afraid to send his girls to school at present. MA called at DR. TAILOR'S. Thur. 28 June. I have just received a note from AUNT SUE MILLS and she said she has just received a note from JOEL. He writes that the 4th Reg. have given up their battery to Artillery men from Fort Pillow. The are in camp a mile from Vicksburgh-- are reorganizing anf form part of a brigade; it is thought COL. ALLEN will be elected Brigadier General. JOEL said it is rumored in camp that they will be sent to Arkansas under MAGRUDA -- No fighting at Vik. up to Tuesday. I heard that BUTLER has ordered all plantation burning to be stopped. We also heard that BRAG with 40,000 men is at Vik. -- VAN DORN supercedes LOVELL. The little EAST girls came back this morning. MA and PA spent day at MR. NEWPORT'S. It is a false report about CAPT. SAILS being burnt out. "Let the devil have his due." Fri. 29 June. Wrote to DEAR. Hope I shall have an opportunity of seeing WILL JONES tomorrow as he starts for camp on Monday. UNCLE ALEX called. PA and BRO. EAST spent day at MR. GRIFFITH'S. They heard today of the death of their son, JOHN, who was in Virginia. Sat. Evening or Sun. Morning. 12 o'c. This has been one of the days! GEORGE and I started for Jackson this morning at 4 o'c. Arrived at MRS. NASHES to breakfast. Had a most delightful ride. Stole some corn for PUSS. Was rejoiced to meet them all again. Called on all my friends went shopping. Took tea with the MISS JONES. Got home a few minutes ago. I must go to bed or ELLEN will come and catch me sleeping in the morning. Sun. 30 June 1862. Feel oh so tired today. Attended church. UNCLE ALEX called. He caught several negros last night. MRS. ROBINSON'S WILLIAM took her carriage and horses and started to Baton Rouge on Tues. night but was caught. Tis a pity he was not killed. Thur. 3 July. Had a fine rain this evening. Everything looks so fresh and green. PA and MA did not attend Prayer Meeting. Fri. 4 July. Gave the children Holly day. UNCLE ALEX called. MRS. McCAULLEY and LIZZIE spent day. Had a nice shower. Came home with LIZZIE will remain until Sunday Eve. Sat. 5 July. LIZZIE and I took a ride and called on MR. TOWNSEND. His wife is a most beautiful lady. I am so much pleased with LIZZIE. Sun. 6 July. Five years ago this morning DEAR and I were married. Oh it is too bad that we should be separated on the aniversary. God grant he may be spared. Attended church. Took MARY for the first time she behaved very well. UNCLE ALEX came to MR. McCAULLEY'S and accompanied me home. Talked of other days. LIZZIE came with me. Tues. 8 July. MRS. McCAULY, LIZZIE, MA and I spent day at BRO. EAST. Received three long letters from DEAR. MA received one from BRO. TOM. LIZZIE went home this morning. AUNT SOPHIA came home with us. Wed. 9 July. Came over to BRO. EAST'S with AUNT SOPHIA - enjoyed myself as pleasantly as usual. MRS. EAST has gone to visit her son. BRO. EAST is looking very bad. Sat. 12 July. MA and I, MRS. McCAULEY and LIZZIE spent day at DR. TAILORS. Was much pleased with DR. HILLARY, JESSE has been quite unwell all day. 11 p.m. I am most unhappy. Yes, miserable. GEORGE is going to Vicksburg Monday !! Sun. 13 July. BROTHER has gone to Jackson to bid Adieu to those kind friends there. I do not know how I am to live when GEORGE goes! He has been so kind to me since DEAR left. Sun. Evening. Attended church this morning. AUNT ANN came for me and I could not disappoint her. LIZZIE and her ma came over to bid GEORGE goodbye. LIZZIE will remain until tomorrow. 11 o'c. PM GEORGE has just returned. God grant that when we arrive at the mouth of the cave we may find the stone rolled away! Mon. 14 July. The Proclamation has arrived! And no man above 18 and over 45 (?) are allowed to leave the state. All others are drafted. It is well we heard this sooner else GEORGE would have found himself in a fine pickel. UNCLE ALEX has been promoted Capt. of a company of men for home protection. GEORGE will go with him. LIZZIE went home this evening. GEORGE and I rode over to UNCLE ALEX'S and sent DEAR and BRO. TOM long letters. Found AUN SUE and PATTIE quite ill. So not think UNCLE ALEX will get off before Thurs. Fri. 20 July. GEORGE and MA spent the day at MRS. McCAULEY'S. When she came home I went over. Will remain until Sunday evening. MISS EM POWELL and TOM CARNY was married last night. Hurrah!! Quite a surprise! Sat. 21 July. Attended Church meeting. MR. SHELLMIRE (?) died this morning. PA is to preach his funeral tomorrow at 9 oc at M. Went over home this evening to eat watermellon. Saw UNCLE ALEX and MR. BOWEN. Sun. 21 July. Attended the funeral- the family was much distressed. MRS. MURE was the very picture of death. Came home this evening. Mon. 22 July. PA was called upon to preach the funeral of one of MR. YOUNG'S nephews. Tues. 23 July. BRO. EAST and GEORGE has gone on picket guard. UNCLE ALEX came by and wished me to accompany him home. Had a fine visit, JESSE behaved like a man. MISS ARCHIE is quite sick. Wed. 24 July. Came home this morning. MRS. POWERS and ELLEN also AUNT ANN spent the day here. Had a delightful time. BRO. EAST and GEORGE came home "right side up with care." Thur. 25 July. MA and PA attended prayer meeting and took tea with BRO. EAST. Received two long letters from DARLING. Also a sketch of the Arkansas with description. MA got a letter from BRO. TOM. NR. NEWPORT'S son is dead !!! Fri. 26 July. Closed school until the first of Sep. -- feel very sad to part with my pupils. Sat. 27 July. MRS. BRIAN spent day here. PA spent day at MRS. NEWPORTS. She is nearly crazy about her son ROBERT. UNCLE ALEX called and brought letter from DARLING. Bless his dear soul. Had hard hemorage. Sun. 28 July. UNCLE ALEX came by and took me to church. I am very unwell. Tues. 30 July. Spent day at MRS. MILLS. The 4th Regmt. is at Tangipaho!! Have been sick all day. Wed. 31 July. JOEL MILLS is very sick at Jackson, Miss., and has sent for his mother. She and ARCHIE have gone accompanied by DR. PORTER who called this morning and gave me medicine. UNCLE ALEX and AUNT SUE called this evening. I am suffering very much. Am surely blistered. Oh that I could see DEAR. Perhaps I shall in a few days. Fri. 1 Aug. Am still quite sick. Had a slight hemorrage. AUNT ANN spent day here. Four years ago today her little son died. Sat. 2 Aug. MOTHER MILLS, AUNT SUE, MATTIE BLANTON spent morning here. I received seven letters from DEAR and twelve papers. He is so kind and ever thoughtful. He is only twelve miles from here. Oh I feel sure he will come home. Sun. 3 Aug. I am no better. Coughed a great deal last night. UNCLE ALEX called this morning. He and GEORGE are going to the Camp this evening. Sent DEAR and BRO. TOM a letter. MR. and MRS. BARKSDEL ( ? not sure of spelling) came this morning will remain until morning. AUNT ANN called. MRS. DR. EAST and ANNIE is quite ill. Mon. 4 Aug. I am oh so anxious to hear from camp!! LIZZIE came this morning and will remain several days. LITTLE ANNIE is dead!!! She died last night. PA has gone to preach her funeral. MRS. DR. EAST is not expected to live. Tues. 5 Aug. The firing from Baton Rouge is most indecent. Oh that I could hear from them!! Tues. evening. We have just heard that the Yankees were driving back into their garrison and the 4th Regt. is all cut to pieces. COL. ALLEN is wounded in both legs. JOEL MILLS is dead. He died Sunday last. His mother is expected home tomorrow. MRS. BOWEN is dead! Wed. 6 Aug. LIZZIE has gone!! Have just heard that DEAR is safe. Had his hat shot off. BRO. TOM was cut in two with a cannon ball and BRO. GEORGE shot in the arm! PA has gone down. AUNT ANNE and ELLEN spent evening here. Thur. 7 Aug. Low and behold!!! DEAR came home last night about 12 oc and BRO. TOM and GEORGE came on their way safe and sound. Oh how can anyone have the heart to tell such lies. Thur. evening 7 Aug. This evening BRO. GEORGE and TOM came home and I never felt happier than now. UNCLE ALEX and AUNT SUE called. MRS. SHELMIRE and MRS. (Somebody else). BRO. TOM is quite sick. MRS. McCAULEY is sick. Fri. 8 Aug. BRO. TOM is some better. DEAR does not feel so well. MA and I rode over to see MRS. Mc she is better. DEAR and PA took tea at UNCLE ALEX'S. Sun. 10 Aug. DEAR and PA attended church. PA preached at UNCLE ALEX'S this evening. BRO. TOM is improving. BRO. GEORGE is quite unwell. BRO. EAST called. MRS. FANSHAW came and brought me some jelly and bitter with MRS. SHELMIRE'S compliments. Mon. 11 Aug. BRO. TOM and GEORGE started for Jackson on horseback. I fear it will be a tedious trip. DEAR spent day with BRO. EAST. MA and I with MRS. McCAULEY who is very ill. I have been quite unwell all day. Stopped at the post office found a note from B. MOSSES (?) to DEAR and BRO. TOM requesting their presence at Clinton Wednesday night to officiate at a concert to be given for the benefit of the wounded. Baton Rouge is burning. Dog gone the Yankees!! Tues. 12 Aug. BRO. EAST came by and took DEAR to Jackson. DEAR will go on from there to Clinton. I would have loved so much to have gone but am not able. I am Always sick. MA and I went up to see SUSAN (?) EAST who is sick. Feel oh so lonely!! Wed. 13 Aug. MA and MORRIS and MARY rode over to see MRS. McCAULY she is worse this morning. 6 o'c p.m. raining!! Had a splendid rain this evening. PA has gone to MRS. READING'S will preach the funeral sermon of MR. OWENS (?) child who died this morning of fever. Baton Rouge is not burned-- it was a sawmill we saw. Hurrah!!! Thur. 14 Aug. I had quite a surprise last night! DEAR came home just as MA and I had retired. He had his trip all for nothing. COL. RUGGLES would not let the ban off. I hate him for his meanness. Had another hard storm this evening. JESSE is quite sick. OSCAR and DEAR went squirrel hunting. Killed three nice young ones. PA came home late. Fri. 15 Aug. MA and DEAR rode over to see MRS. McCAULEY. She is better this evening. DEAR and PA went over to MR. POWELL'S we had a terrific thunderstorm accompanied by wind and hail. Young POWELL is improving. Sat. 16 Aug. Warm and sultry. DEAR and PA spent evening at BRO. EAST'S. Sun. 17 Aug. Last night about 11 o'c GEORGE and TOMMIE came from Jackson. MRS. POWERS and ELLEN called on their way to church. TOMMIE accompanied PA this evening. DEAR, GEORGE, TOMMIE, PA, and myself attended church at BRO. EAST'S. Saw ELLEN and her Ma off met MR. and MRS. JOHNSON there. Mon. 18 Aug. PA took DARLING back to Camp. He was not met as chear- ingly as usual owing to a report one of his Friends circulated there about him and BRO. TOM. It is oh so lonely without him. I have one bright hope of seeing him soon again. Tues. 19 Aug. PA went back to Port Hudson this morning and carried BRO. TOM with him. On his return he reported DARLING "All Right." Oh it is so lonely! Wed. 20 Aug. I am feeling perfectly miserable!! AUNT ANN and AUNT SOPHIA called this evening. LIZZIE came and brought me home with her. MRS. MC. is quite ill. Received a letter from DARLING. Thur. 21 Aug. MRS. McCAULEY is some better. LIZZIE and I attended prayer meeting. Had a nice chat with Father GRIFING (?) who told me MORRIS would be home tonight!! JOHNNIE SHELMIRE sent me a fine watermelon on our return to MR. Mc. I found DARLING and I am so happy!! His shirt fits oh so nice. Fri. 22 Aug. DARLING returned this morning. MA called on her way to BRO. GRIFLING'S on her return she brought DEAR and BRO. TOMMIE. Had a terrible storm. Did not get home until quite late. MRS. Mc is worse. MRS. TOWNSIDE called on her this evening. Sat. 23 Aug. Oh it is so nice to have DEAR and BRO. TOM at home. It is just like old times! I have finished their shirts. Had another hard storm. Sun. 24 Aug. PA and MA attended church and dined at DR. TAILOR'S. They say the woods and plains are full of soldiers. Mon. 25 Aug. DEAR and BRO. TOMIE returned to camp this morning. After dinner MA and I rode over to see MRS. McCAULEY who is better. Passed Camp Beall. Gave the soldiers some flowers. LIZZIE was looking very pretty this evening. Tues. 26 Aug. This morning MA and I rode over to MRS. EAST'S. They all look very gloomy. The DR. has to go to war. It will be very hard to part with him. His poor wife will be lonely indeed I pity her. Poor afflicted one! There are two sick soldiers there- one of them is Very sick. This evening PA and GEORGE rode over to UNCLE ALEX'S. I was sitting alone feeling so sad when who should come in but DEAR! Oh I was so glad to see him; He had only one hour to stay, he was on his way to Clinton. Will be back in a few days. The report is that we have taken New Orleans. The Yankees burned Bayou Tara (Sara ?) a day or two ago. Wed. 27 Aug. MA and I spent the day at BRO. NEWPORT'S, had a delightful visit. I enjoyed the ride very much. Thur. 28 Aug. This morning MA and I called on MRS. McCAULEY. She is better. Heard firing at Port Hudson this morning. PA and MA attended prayer meeting. DARLING has come!! Accompanied by JIMMIE BLOW. Oh what thronging memories his presence crowds to my view. Dear sweet ALLIE, Beloved Cousin MAG. Lost RICHARD ! I see you all tonight. Oh could I recall the past but for one hour! Fri. 29 Aug. I dressed JIMMIE'S head this morning. The very thought of it sickens me. DEAR took him to Port Hudson this morning. I wonder if I shall ever see JIMMIE more. PA went over to UNCLE ALEX'S to meet DEAR. UNCLE ALEX is quite sick. I wish I could see him. MA and BRO. called to see MRS. McCAULEY this morning. She is better. Sat. 30 Aug. This has been a beautiful day. Been busy making old clothes "good as new." DEAR and PA spent evening at BRO. EAST'S. Sun. 31 Aug. MA and PA attended church. DEAR and I spent a delight- ful day at home. Oh it is so pleasant to have him all to myself. Mon. 1 Sep. Rain Rain. MA and I intended to spend the day with MRS. TOM BROWN but will be obliged to content ourselves at home. Monday evening-Cleared up, MA and I called on MRS. McCAULEY. Found her sitting up. LIZZIE was busy making cake for CAPT. McCLURE. Tues. 2 Sep. BRO. EAST and PA started for Miss - to get leather. I guess he will not get far as it rained all day. DEAR is quite unwell. Wed. 3 Sep. Warm and pleasant. DEAR and BRO. GEORGE went to Port Hudson this morning. I have been so lonely without them. This evening about 5 o'c BRO. KANE came. He made DEAR a nice present. DEAR and BRO did not return until after tea. PA came home later did not succeed in getting leather. I do not know what we shall all do for shoes. Thur. 4 Sep. BRO. KANE left for Port Hudson enroute for Baton Rouge. DEAR will leave in the morning. I hope I shall get the shirts done. ARCHIE, MATTIE and MAGGIE came over this morning. ARCHIE and MATTIE went home to dine. MAGGIE spent the day. MAY went over to see PATTIE. CHARLIE is an extraordinary baby, weighs 19 pounds. AUNT SOPHIA spent evening. Late this evening we were cheered by the sound of the "band" over to WILL CARTER'S. DEAR and GEORGE went over 11 o'c p.m. Heigho, I am so tired! MA and I have just finished DEAR'S and BRO. TOMMIE'S shirts and they are beauties. DEAR has not come yet. Fri. 5 Sep. DEAR has gone! WILL CARTER sent the band to B.R. in a wagon. Oh how lonely everything looks! PA has gone to Sandy Creek to preach tomorrow and Sunday. UNCLE ALEX called this evening. He is looking badly. Sat. 6 Sep. Finished a sock today. To our surprise PA came home this evening. The people have all moved away from Sandy Creek on account of the Army. Sun. 7 Sep. We was all aroused from sweet morning slumbers by the boom boom of cannons in the direction of P.H. It seems the Essexx (?) was being torn down and we fired into her. While they shelled us quite extensively killing a horse and blowing up a house. PA preached for HUGH'S Battalion this morning. Me an old acquaintance a MR. CLARK of Miss. Mon. 8 Sep. MA and I dined with MRS. EAST, MRS. DR. EAST is very sad indeed. Had a hard shower this evening. Tue. 9 Sep. We spent the day at MRS. JOHN BROWN'S had a delightful visit and a pleasant ride. Wed. 10 Sep. MRS. SIMPSON, IRENE NEWPORT, and SARA SKILLMAN (?) spent the day with us. Rain. Rain. Thur. 11 Sep. This morning MR. S. NEWPORT sent a request for PA to preach the funeral of FANNY WARD'S little son ALBERT. It died yesterday while MRS. NEWPORT was here of congestive of the heart. Received a long letter from DARLING. Oh I was so happy to hear from him. Wrote to him. Fri. 12 Sep. Sent over for DEAR'S shoes. They are not finished yet. MRS. McCAULEY and LIZZIE SHELMIRE spent the evening here. Sun. 14 Sep. UNCLE ALEX and AUNT SUE called on their way to church. AUNT SUE concluded to remain with me. I was very glad to have her and enjoyed myself very much.. DR. EAST and his father called. Finished DEAR'S letter. Mon. 15 Sep. This morning MA and OSCAR started for Jackson early. I spent a miserable night on account of the sand flies. BRO. GEORGE rode over to MR. POWELL'S and got DEAR'S shoes, and such shoes. They are not worth two pits. And he wants $8.00 for them after telling DEAR he would make them for $5.00. This evening GEORGE mailed my letter and gave the shoes to MR. MADOX to deliver. Tues. 16 Sep. 1862. Oh I have been so lonely this evening. Yes all day. I fear MA will not come home today for it is rain rain drizzel drizzel. MRS. FANSHAW called between showers. She brought me a beautiful ---- (piece of poetry ?). Wed. 17 Sep. This has been a day of sunshine and tears, one moment rain the next a stream of sunshine. MA did not return until quite late. She had a delightful visit and brought MAE several nice presents. She said VICK HUGH or rather MRS. DR. CARUTH has a fine daughter and they have named it VICTORIA CECELIA. MRS. F. HAYNES has another daughter. WILLIE NASH is improving slowly. Oh how I long to see my friends at Jackson!! Thur. 18 Sep. Thanksgiving Day. Attended service at the P.C. MR. GARY preached. This evening DEAR came home. Oh it was a joyfull surprise!! He will return to Camp in the morning. The 4th Reg. is to be stationed at Port Hudson. MRS. MITCHELL and MR. BUTCH are to be married tonight. Fri. 19 Sep. PA took DEAR to Port Hudson this morning. On his return he brought me a long sweet letter from MORRIS. He will be home tomorrow if he can get off. MRS. McCAULEY and LIZZIE spent day here. MRS. TAYLOR called this evening. About sundown LIZZIE came back on horseback escorted by CAPT. McCLURE in flying colors. Sat. 20 Sep. I have busy preparing for DEAR. MA and PA attended church meeting. MA and I called at UNCLE ALEX'S met several acquaintances there. Sun. 21 Sep. DARLING came home about 10 oc. returned to Camp this morning. Attend church this morning. have a severe headache this evening. Oh how lonely everything looks after one of DEAR'S visits!! Will this War ever close? Mon. 22 Sep. It is reported that there was 17 gunboats lying below Port Hudson yesterday evening. What Next? This morning about nine MRS. POWERS, NELLIE, MRS. EAST, and her crowd came by for MA and I to accompany them to Port Hudson. The report about the gunboats is all unjust. Had a most delightful time and had the delightful pleasure of DARLING'S and BRO. TOM'S company while there. We were well paid for our ride. I guess the Yankees will have a warm time of it when they pay the Hudsonites a visit. The Baker from Vicksburg came while we were there. She created some excitement for we did not know but what she was a "Yankee". Saw several "Brass Mounted Men" and a great many barefooted men which I did the most reverence to. My Dear Diary I can tell you the Brass Mounted Men are dome. About 5 o'c. LIZZIE came for me to accompany her home to meet CAPT. McCLURE. Had a fine time. I am much pleased with the Capt. He insists on our dining with them tomorrow. Tues. 23 Sep. Rain! rain! PA and MA dined at MR. McCAULEY'S did not attend the Dining on account of the rain. Will go tomorrow if pleasant. Sent word to that affect. DEAR came tonight. Thought I was Crazy Dan. Wed. 24 Sep. Heigho!! I am so tired I can not write much. Accompanied DEAR back to camp took a view of the guns, rifle pits, etc. Dined at GEN. BUELL'S canopy. Had a splendid time played chess with CAPT. McCLURE. Had a nice chat with CAPT. ROSS and DR. SEVERE. MAJOR STARLING is the most bashful man I ever saw. Like CAPT. SOCKDALE very much. At four attended Dress Parade. Saw DEAR and BRO. TOM. Thur. 25 Sep. MRS. McCAULEY brought me home this morning. I do not feel very well today. All the old folks attended prayer meeting. Fri. 26 Sep. This evening PA started for the Association. BOBBIE MILLS called. About dark DEAR came. He is quite sick of sore throat. BRO. KANE came about 8 o'c. HA-- is sick. Sat. 27 Sep. This morning about 9 o'c LIZZIE came on horseback through the rain. She will remain until Monday. BRO. TOM started for Camp this evening. DEAR is suffering intensely. Sun. 28 Sep. This morning MR. McCAULEY sent for LIZZIE. DEAR has been very ill all day. UNCLE ALEX and AUNT SUE spent the morning took MORRIS and MAY home with them. HARNITT is very sick of fever. Mon. 29 Sep. DEAR is much worse. DR. DORTCH prescribed for him this morning. MA has a chill. Tues. 30 Sep. OSCAR is fourteen years old today. MA made him a Confederate cake. DEAR is not much better. UNCLE ALEX and MISS ARCHIE called this morning and brought the children home. PA sent for more clothes will not be home before Saturday. HARRIET ( or Harnet ?) is worse. Sat. 18 Oct. PA and MA attended church meeting. UNCLE ALEX took me over to MR. McCAULEY'S. Had a splendid ride. Sun. 19 Oct. Attended church. Called on MRS. TOWSEND, saw PONE. Came home this evening to meet DEAR (Alice's husband MORRIS) but was disappointed. Mon. 20 Oct. BRO. GEORGE went to Pt. Hudson. MRS. MILLS and AUNT SUE spent day. PONE called. GEORGE was detained by the Guard. Tue. 21 Oct. GEORGE came "right sid up with care" this morning. This evening to our grate surprise JIM SELCER called. He has changed so much. Oh, it makes me homesick to see anyone from Oak Wood. Wed. 22 Oct. MA and GEORGE started for MRS. NEWPORT'S this morning but the Guard would not let them pass so the spent the day at MRS. McCAULEY'S. MR. EAST and lady spent evening here. UNCLE ALEX called. Thu. 23 Oct. GEORGE and I called at MRS. McCAULEY'S and on MR. TOWNSEND who is suffering severly. UNCLE ALEX dined with us and after dinner we went to the Port. I did not see MORRIS. The Band have gone to --- GEN. ALLEN. Fri. 24 Oct. MA and I dined at UNCLE ALEX'S. SALLIE CHEW came while we were there. She looks very bad. UNCLE ALEX is coming by for me in the morning to pay DEAR another visit. MRS. FANSHAW came this evening and will remain until tomorrow. Oh, I hope I shall see DARLING tomorrow. Sat. 25 Oct. Cold and -- . PA and BRO. EAST started this morning very early to the Port to fish. UNCLE ALEX and I went to see DEAR and lo and behold they have not come yet! Oh, this is too bad!! Took dinner with ELIZABETH GRIFFING. Her mother is quite ill. Formed the acquaintance of the WIDOW ADIEUSON (?) We nearly froze on our way home. Found MRS. FANSHAW still in the land of the living. Sun. 26 Oct. MRS. FANSHAW went home this evening. MRS. McCAULEY came for her. DEAR has not come yet! Mon. 27 Oct. MA and PA spent day at BRO. GIFFITH'S. It is reported that 12,000 Yankees are marching on us by land and 17 gun boats by water. Tue. 28 Oct. MARY is 3 years old today. God bless her little heart and spare her to us another year. BRO. GEORGE went to Pt. Hudson this morning, got home a few minutes ago. DEAR did not come. He sent MARY a beautiful poem and also me one on "The Firelight". It is a perfect beauty and I prize it. BRO. TOM sent MA and PA two beautiful handkerchiefs. Wed. 29 Oct. DARLING came home last p.m., just as I retired! He went back this morning. Oh, how well and happy he looked. He has left a bright day of sunshine behind. MRS. DR. EAST and MARY --(unreadable). Thu. 30 Oct. Warm and springlike. The old sow killed MA'S large gander. PA and MA went to MR. EAST'S and took tea. We are invited there to dine tomorrow. Fri. 1 Nov. MA and I spent day at MR. EAST'S. PA took NEWTON DeLEE to Pt. Hudson while there they heard that the Yankees are fighting us at Baton Rouge... this is dreadful news. I suppose they will be on us by tomorrow. Sat. 2 Nov. UNCLE ALEX came over and brought two of PA's old Miss. friends--- MR. LEWIS and DR. CATCHINGS. Sun. 3 Nov. Very warm. DARLING came home last night and will remain till Tues. The Yankees have gone back to New O. DEAR and I dined at MR. EAST'S. PA preached at Pt. H. Mon. 4 Nov. Warm as summer. Made DEAR a cap it is very nice. MA is making sausage. PA dined with his Mississippi friends at UNCLE ALEX'S. Tue. 5 Nov. DEAR went back this morning and I am lonely again. BRO. GEORGE and I went over to MRS. McCAULEY'S and as we were starting home Charlie took fright, ran away -- springboard against a tree, threw us all out --- hurt my hip and MARY'S leg and face but came very near breaking GEORGE'S leg over -- he could not guide the horse and the "ribbon" broke; the buggy has both shafts broke all to pieces. Came home in MR. MC'S buggy. Found BRO. TOM here. BRO. OSCAR, TOM, and PA went opposum hunting. Wed. 6 Nov. PA and BRO. EAST went fishing at Pt. H. BRO. TOM went back to camp. Thu. 7 Nov. UNCLE ALEX called enroute for Pt. H, he carried a letter to DARLING for me. Fri. 8 Nov. Cold! Been busy all day sewing. Sat. 9 Nov. Made me a dress. Wonder if DEAR will come home. Sun. 10 Nov. MA and PA attended church as usual. PA preached at UNCLE ALEX'S this evening. GEORGE'S leg is worse. Mon. 11 Nov. This evening PA and I rode over to BRO. EAST'S. I intended to have spent the night with ARABELLA, but just when we got there BRO. OSCAR came and told me DEAR was at home. This was such a happy surprise. He will remain till tomorrow evening. Tue. 12 Nov. BRO. EAST invited us to dine with him and help eat a fine wild turkey. MA, PA, DEAR, and I came. GEORGE was not able. JAY took DEAR this evening to meet the cars enroute for Clinton. I shall remain all night. Wed. 13 Nov. My birthday. 21 years old! Came home this morning. AUNT SOPHIA, AUNT ANN, and MRS. DR. EAST came with me and spent the day. MRS. DR. DORTCH called. They all went home in the rain. Thur.14 Nov. Rain and cloudy weather. PA, UNCLE ALEX, and BRO. EAST went on a deer hunt. Did not meet with any success. MRS. FANSHAW and LIZZIE spent evening. And we are very much afraid that BRO. will lose his leg. Fri. 15 Nov. GEORGE is worse. I wish I could hear from DEAR (Alice's husband MORRIS). Sat. 16 Nov. PA and I attended church meeting. MRS. McCAULY and LIZZIE and UNCLE ALEX spent evening. UNCLE A., LIZZIE and I rode over to the sugar mill. UNCLE A. invited me to accompany him to the Tableau to be given at Jackson on the 21st. He is always kind and thoughtful. Sun. 17 Nov. Attended church. MRS. DR. EAST is going to Jackson. The DR. is promoted assistant in the hospital. I am very sorry for I am much attached to her, but she will be happier. I hope she will get a house. MISS ALLIE BERRY and JOHN SIMMONS ( ? Limmons? ) was married last Thursday at 4 o'c. Mon. 18 Nov. Rain !! PA went with a company on a hunt, came home minus deer. Tue. 19 Nov. Rain Rain Rain! Oh I know I shall not go to the Tableau for it has set in for a general rain. Wed. 20 Nov. MRS. DR. EAST and AUNT ANN came down this evening. ARABELLA came to bid us adieu. Oh I shall feel her absence deeply. UNCLE ALEX came to tell me he would call for me. DARLING has come home. Fri. 21 Nov. DEAR left this morning for Jackson. PA and OSCAR have gone. PA is going 15 miles above Jackson for leather and OSCAR at MR. NASH'S to attend the tableau. UNCLE A. came for me. I called at TALLIE JONES' and dressed. EMMA is very sick. She looks dreadful -- ABBIE is at her brother GEORGE'S. His infant died this evening after spending one week in this world. Sat. 22 Nov. Got home this morning about 1 o'c. UNCLE A. went home. Bless his kind soul, when will I ever repay him for his kindness? About 11 o'c MR. JIM _____ and lady came. I was rejoiced to see KATE, she has not changed one iota. She has the sweetest little babe. About 12 a MR. CLARK and lady and child came. I never saw such a change or rather difference in two individuals in my life. I wonder how KATE ever came with her. She is a --- of the Piny woods --- they are both on a visit to their husbands who are stationed at Pt. Hudson. KATE brings a large bucket of news from our old home at Oakwood. Oh, how I long to get back. She has three children younger than MARY, two girls LUCY and ADA and the "little Man" IRA (or IKE ?). Sun. 23 Nov. Did not attend church, and no Pass. UNCLE ALEX and AUNT SUE called this eveing. GEORGE is worse. Mon. 24 Nov. Came over to UNCLE ALEX to meet DEAR. He did not come until dark. GEORGE rode over in the carriage with me. MR. CLARK and Lady have gone to visit elsewhere. Tue. 25 Nov. DEAR went with UNCLE JOEL to Clinton this morning. Spent a most pleasant day with AUNT SUE. PA did not send for me. Wed. 26 Nov. Oh, I wish I could go to Clinton to the concert! UNCLE A. and JOEL have gone to the salt mines. Thu. 27 Nov. Home again! Found all well. GEORGE came in the carriage for me. JIM has succeeded in getting a substitute and will go home with HATTIE. I am so glad. The cars ran through the bridge yesterday. Did not do any serious harm. I wonder when DEAR will get home and how! Fri. 28 Nov. DARLING came home this evening, reports a grand time at Clinton. My throat is very painful. Sat. 29 Nov. KATE, DEAR, and I went to Jackson, had a fine time. My throat is swollen dreadfully. I believe I have got the mumps. When we came to our horror we found MR. and MRS. CLARK dined with PUSS. MORRIS is sick with his throat. Sun. 30 Nov. We all attended church but MR. and MRS. CLARK had "nothing to ware." I am suffering severely with my throat. OSCAR and ENJO are in the same fix. MORRIS is some better. UNCLE A. dined with us. He said I have the mumps. Mon. 31 Nov. I have been sick all day. DEAR left this morning. AUNT ANN called on KATE. MRS. BEN WEST started here but would not come on account of the mumps. I think JESSE has them. MR. and MRS. CLARK have gone again. Tue. 1 Dec. Rain! OSCAR is quite sick, he has taken cold. KATE gave MARY and JESSE each a beautiful dress. Wed. 2 Dec. Rain Rain oh, this has been such a gloomy day. Thu. 3 Dec. UNCLE ALEX (?) called this evening and brought me a beautiful present. How will I ever be grateful enough! Fri. 4 Dec. GEORGE is very sick. I and also OSCAR are most well. Sat. 5 Dec. KATE and I went to Pt. Hudson, saw DARLING. --- Papers have not come yet. GEORGE is worse. Sun. 6 Dec. Went to church with PA, dined at MR. McCAULY'S. UNCLE ALEX also had a hemorage. Mon. 7 Dec. GEORGE is very ill. DR. BARNETT said he has typhoid pneumonia. He has very severe hemorage. ABBIE and EMMA came this morning, I was so glad to see them. EMY is looking very bad. We all went to Pt. Hudson, had a splendid time. JIM got his papers this a.m. Tues. 8 Dec. Bad. EMMA had a chill last night but got up this morning. Had another one which lasted two hours. PA and MRS. TILSIE (?) went to see GEN. BRATH (?). But it did no good, so she will go home without him. I am very sorry for her. ABBIE and I spent evening at UNCLE ALEX'S. Had a delightful time. Saw CAPT. SALES and FLOWERS. Wed. 9 Dec. UNCLE ALEX and AUNT SUE and CAPT. SALES called. I had a hard hemorage. DR. BARNETT gave me sugar of lead. (?) ABBIE and EMMA went home this evening. Thu. 10 Dec. AUNT ANN and NELLIE spent day. UNCLE ALEX dined --- had another hemorage. GEORGE is worse. DEAR (Alice's husband MORRIS) is here. Fri. 11 Dec. I am better. GEORGE is the same. BRO. KANE came this morning. Sat. 12 Dec. AUNT ANN and ELLEN spent day. MR. GRIFFITH and lady called. Also MRS. PORTER and ARCHIE. GEORGE is better. DEAR came. The Yankees shelled the other side of the river. Sun. 13 Dec. Spent day with NELLIE. GEORGE is worse. MRS. DR. GALLIOS (?) spent evening. Heavy firings at Port Hudson. Mon. 14 Dec. Rain Rain !! MRS. McCAULY and LIZZIE spend day. GEORGE is some better.. I am feeling very bad. Tue. 15 Dec. Beautiful as spring. Made MARY a gound. She began her lessons this morning and learned three letters. Wed. 16 Dec. PONE McMILLON called to engage PA to marry his sister ANNETTE to MR. FRANCIS CARCEY tomorrow night. UNCLE ALEX called. Was so glad to see him. Thu 18 (?) Dec. PA got $10 for the ceromonie. LIZZIE McCAULY was brides maid. UNCLE ALEX called. Fri. 19 Dec. UNCLE ALEX and PA have gone to Pt. Hudson. The bride will have a most beautiful day to go to her new home. I hope her whole life will be as bright. 12 o'c. MR. SELSER has just come. He has the mumps and is quite ill. AUNT ANN and AUNT SOPHIA spent evening. GEORGE is quite unwell. Sat. 20 Dec. MRS. POWERS, ELLEN and AUNT SOPHIA called. We attended church meeting and went on from there to Pt. Hudson. Everyone is moving from their homes. Oh it is a terrible sight! 30 negros from one place ran to the Yankees or rather started. The pickets caught them. 9 of the NEWPORTS ran away. BRO. TOM is sick in camp. Sun. 21 Dec. MRS. POWERS, ELLEN and AUNT ANN called and took me to church. I dined with them at BRO. EAST'S. They started home after dinner. AUNT SOPHIA brought me home. UNCLE ALEX called and has promised to go for BRO. TOM. Mon. 22 Dec. UNCLE ALEX came by in the carriage and I accompanied him to Pt. Hudson. Did not see DARLING but a few moments; found BRO. TOM som better. We brought him home. Found MRS. FANSHAW here. MR. SELSER is nearly well. Went home with UNCLE ALEX. Formed the acquaintance of MISS HATTIE GERMANY. SALLIE CHEW was there, also CAPT. SALES. Tue. 23 Dec. I suffered all night with neuralgia in my face. My eye is a perfect sight. UNCLE ALEX could not take me home this morning according to promise. MRS. BRANDON sent for him to assist on a search to be made for her little son who ran away last night. ARCHIE accompanied MISS HATTIE (?) home on the cars this evening. MRS. PORTER and SALLIE came home with me. Found BRO. TOM not so well. MR. TILSEN (SELSER ?) better. GEORGE is suffering. DARLING has come!! Oh this is joy indeed!! Wed. 24 Dec. DARLING left this morning early before breakfast. I have been quite unwell all day. The sick are all better. Thu. 25 Dec. 1862. This is the Birth Day of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ !! Lord, make me to feel thankful for all thy mercies. Make me meek and lowly, make me to draw near to thy thrown. DARLING came home last night and remained until evening. Oh it was so nice to have him here to eat Christmas dinner. UNCLE ALEX made me a nice present. Fri. 26 Dec. MRS. PUSS JEAN (?) has a fine daughter, born Christmas Eve. MRS. McCAULEY and LIZZIE spent the day. Sat. 27 Dec. BRO. TOM went over to MR. POWELL'S this morning. MR. TILSER received letters from home. KATE got home safe. MRS. EAST, AUNT SOPHIA and SUSAN spent evening. I came home with them and brought my children. It is reported that the Yankees are marching on to Clinton by the Plank Road. MR. READING'S negros have all run off. Sun. 28 Dec. Came home this morning. UNCLE ALEX called but I did no see him. He left word that DARLING is in the Guard House! They punish him for coming home. MRS. JOHN BROWN'S little son was buried today. This is a dreadful sorrow. It must be hard to part with an only child. MA accompanied PA and they dined at BRO. EAST'S. GEORGE had a severe hemorage. BRO. TOM has not got back yet. I am uneasy about him. What can have detained him ? Is he sick? Oh no they would certainly send us word I think. All of MR. READING'S negros ran away. Mon. 29 Dec. Cold and windy. I have been sick all day. GEORGE is no better. Have not heard anything from BRO. KANE. It is very strange. Perhaps he will come tomorrow. MRS. SELSUS' negro came this morning from home. He brought his master a Christmas cale and a letter also one for me. Oh how this letter awakens old memories... I long to take a peep at my old home. I fear I should not recognize it. Poor AUNT MARY is dead and UNCLE MARTIN is married again. He married an old maid by the name of WADE. JIM SILSES said he went to school to her when he was a "little shaver." SALLIE P. MOORE is married. She married old MR. ROBB whose wife has only been dead a few months. Oh "the ways of the world are many." BILLY BOGGS is dead, he left a widow and one child. KATE ANDERSON or rather MRS. BEN ANDERSON has ten children. He is in the army. KATE MONTGOMERY has a son almost as old as MARY. REBECCA GIBBS now MRS. BRUMBY has a son. She is in delicate health and I fear she will not live lone. Poor BECCY! HINRETTA BRUMBY married and is now a widow. WILL KELLY is married and has an heir. JOHN KELLY is dead. ELLICK WELLS (WILLS ?) is dead. MARY WELLS and JOHN HACKLER are married. MOLLIE ROBERTS has another child. Her father is dead. MRS. WELLS, JOHN WATSON'S mother, is totally blind, her little daughter is dead. SIMMOND BALDWIN is dead. With all these changes I should never know my old home. Ah no! I have no wish to see it. My heart aches for those who are mouners and I sigh for the lost! Tue. 30 Dec. MA and I rode over to MRS. McCAULEY'S found MISS SUSAN DE ARMIND (?) staying with LIZZIE. BRO. GRIFFITH called. 16 of MR. Mcc's negros ran away Sunday night. They have only 3 men on the place. This is most dreadful and shows how far they can be relied upon. On our way we met UNCLE ALEX. He was enroute for Pt. Hudson. I sent a message to DEAR. He (Uncle Alex) intends starting for Atchaiphia ? (Atchafalaya ?) Thursday with his wife and family if they do not take mumps before that. I hope he will not stay long. I answereed KATE SELSUS' letter this evening. Oh, what can have happened to BRO. KANE ? Wed. 31 Dec. The last of the old year. Why oh why this feeling of sadness! I dread to look at the coming year. All is so dark, so drear. Where will we all be at the next? God grant that we may be spared. The fight at Vicksburg is still going on. We have repulsed them eight times. We have been fighting them six days. Oh if they whip us there we are lost! Adieu, beloved year... that has left me experience in the place of youth, sweet memories instead of past time. I close you my Dear Diary with many a tear of regret, you who have witnessed what no other eye but the all-seeing eye of God has seen, my tears of sorrow and smiles of you, you are a true friend. On the last page of the diary is written a poem, "Cane Breake," which is signed " 19 Aug. 1862, TOM K." ( TOM KANE ?) * Note: M.W. Stambaugh, Alice's father, was pastor of First Baptist Church of Jackson, La., ca. 1861-2 End