Ward B. Frothingham Diary, 1864

Ward B. Frothingham,

9 Newbury Street,

Boston.

Friday, January 1, 1864.

—Prefatory remarks—

I began the life of a soldier by enlisting in Captain John F. Dunning's Company 22^nd Reg^t Mass. Vols. called in honor of the Hon. Edward Everett the "Everett Guard". I enlisted as a Corporal on the 28^th day of August 1861 and was "mustered in" to the service of the U.S. on the 6^th of September following. The Reg^t left the state on the 8^th of October at 4 O'clock P.M. and arrived in New York the next day between 10 and 11 O'clk A.M. After feasting on a great quantity of washy soup, with here and there a solitary piece of "salt-Horse" floating about in

Sunday, January 3, 1864.

it and a "gilt edged" testament given to those who wanted one to help their "digestion", we were march'd all over the "Empire City", heard a fine speech from Mr Brady, and at last with empty stomachs, but full and heavy knapsacks, were "piled" into the Park Barracks, where the remains of the detestable soup were brought to bear on the already injured stomachs of the men. We then "fell in" and marched to the ferry and started for "Amboy". Some slept standing and some could not sleep at all. Some took cat-naps on their knees or sitting two or three deep.

Tuesday, January 5, 1864.

After a good deal of crowding and swearing we got to Amboy and took the cars for Camden, which we reached early in the morning, and took the boat for Philadelphia, where we arrived at 5 O'clock A.M. October 10^th. We were treated like princes in the "Quaker City", had a good wash, there being room enough for one "wing" at a time to perform their ablutions. After getting the dirt off of the "outer man" the "inner man" was fortified by a substantial breakfast of "fresh" meat, hot biscuit and butter, tea and coffee, and waited upon by ladies, who saw that we wanted for nothing in the shape of eatables or

Thursday, January 7, 1864.

kind words of good cheer. God bless the ladies of Philadelphia. We marched of course all over the "City of Penn" but we had full stomachs to sustain us, and we "slung our trunks" on our backs, and threw our "chest forwards" willingly. We arrived at Baltimore near midnight and after partaking of a "collation" of coffee, "salt junk" &c, we were packed into the cars and began to roll on towards Washington, where we arrived early in the morning—October 11^th (Friday). We were fed upon muddy coffee, mouldy bread, and "villainous saltpetre" in the shape of "black walnut" slabs, and called salt "beef". If it was not "Horse"

Saturday, January 9, 1864.

or if it ever "clove the hoof" I am no judge. We had to show our paces to the "Washingtonians" and were marched up and down and across the City of "Magnificent distances" 'till our legs came near dropping off and left the dirty hole on Sunday October 13^th at 3 O'clock P.M. and march'd to Halls Hill Va. which we reach'd at 8 O'clock in the Ev^g. of the same day, 5 hours march, and we averaged three miles an hour or fifteen miles with loaded knapsacks. My knapsack, gun and equipments weighing 60 lbs. We passed over the "long Bridge". We staid at Halls Hill untill the following spring. The army

Monday, January 11, 1864.

moved on the 10^th of March/62 and marched to Fairfax C.H. and staid there untill Saturday the 15^th when we got ready to start for "Camp California" near Alexandria Va. and arrived there towards the end of the afternoon in a pouring rain and wet to the skin. Whiskey was plenty and was to keep the men from catching cold. We staid in the "camp" untill Thursday the 20^th when we were ordered to "Fall in", and marched to the City of Alexandria where we staid untill the following Saturday. My "wing" the "right" was quartered in the Methodist Episcopal Church, new and clean pews to sleep in!

Wednesday, January 13, 1864.

On Saturday afternoon the 22^nd of March, we embarked on board the transports and sailed or rather "steamed" to "Fortress Monroe" which we reached on Monday the 24^th of March. From here we marched to about a mile beyond Hampton, where we encamped over night. I got a "pass" from Col. Gove and went to see Mr Nathan Nourse Jr in the 16^th Reg^t Mass Vols, and spent the night with him. When I got back to camp, I found the "boys" all ready for a march, and soon after we were on the road. We encamped in the afternoon at "New Market Bridge" and staid there untill

Friday, January 15, 1864.

Friday the 4^th of April when we "broke camp" and started in the direction of Yorktown, and when within four miles of the latter place, pitched our tents for the night. In the morning we started again, and before long we heard the "cannons roar". We supported a battery all the afternoon of Saturday the 5^th of April, and laid in the woods all night. We entered Yorktown on the 4^th of May/62 our Company being the first one to do any guard duty in the town, and our brave and beloved Colonel Jesse A Gove lent a hand to raise the "Stars and Stripes" over the fortifications.

Sunday, January 17, 1864.

The rebels according to their usual barbarous mode of warfare, sunk "torpedoes" all around the fort, and also in the streets of the town. A number of our men were kill'd, and some wounded. Company "G" lost one man kill'd and had seven wounded by treading upon the "torpedoes". A shell is loaded and sunk into the ground, and a "plunger" fixed into the top, and left just a little sticking out of the ground. When any one step on this "plunger" which connects with the powder, the shell or "torpedoe" explodes, and the victim is blown to pieces. Sticks were stuck into the ground wherever a "torpedoe"

Tuesday, January 19, 1864.

is discovered to be. Our march was very "zig zag" on account of having to turn out of the way of the sticks. From Yorktown we took the transports up the York river to "West Point", and from thence we marched to "White House" a favorite place of our own Immortal Washington. We marched across the country to the "City of Richmond" making encampments at night, and sometimes leaving early the next day; in some cases we staid in camp from two or three days to a week. The fields made a funny appearance after we had left them; the sticks which supported our "shelter" tents being left sticking up in the ground showing where the "streets" of the

Thursday, January 21, 1864.

different companies were located. Our Reg^t supported Captain Martins Battery at the Battle of Hanover C.H. and tore up three miles of track, on the Orange and Alexandria R.R. The battery above mentioned was Griffins regular battery, not Martins which was a volunteer battery from Mass commonly called "Follett's" Battery. The latter was the one which we supported at Yorktown. We saw our first heavy fighting at "Gaines Hill" the second day of the "seven days" fighting before Richmond. I was wounded at the Battle of "Gaines Hill" or "Chickahominy" quite severely—a "minie ball" whizzing through my left shoulder and

Saturday, January 23, 1864.

disabling me so I could not handle my "musket". I was taken prisoner and was marched into Richmond on Sunday June 29^th/62. The battle was fought June 27^th. Our dear Colonel lost his life in this battle and our Captain was killed just in front of me. I was located in the "cock" loft of the Libby Prison untill Saturday the 19^th of July when I was paroled for exchange with six or eight hundred others, and left Richmond in the cars for "City Point", where my eyes were gratified at the sight of the "Star Spangled Banner", after they had been "bleared" with looking on the dirty secessation rag which floated from the top of the Capitol

Monday, January 25, 1864.

at Richmond. I arrived at "David's Island Hospital" New York on Thursday July 24^th and on Tuesday the 29^th my brother Edward came to see me and succeeded in getting my discharge and on the following day we left for New York, where I was paid off and took the boat for Fall River and took the cars for home. I staid with my brother Thomas at Quincy a week when I was able to go home to Burlington. As far as my wound is concerned I am entirely recovered and eager to join the army once more, and lend a good right arm, to give my blood and if needs be my life to the service

Wednesday, January 27, 1864.

of my Country. I am a 2^nd Lieu^t in 59^th Reg^t Mass. Vet. Vols. to be commanded by Col. J. Parker Gould, Major of the 13^th Reg^t Mass. Vols. I am not yet "confirmed" in my commission but I am authorized to "recruit" for my command by order of Brig. Gen. R. A. Pierce. One or two words about the "hard bread" which we had to eat in the army. It went by the name of "hard tack" eye let pis and other euphonious names. It was also aged if you could judge by the dates stamped upon each one. Some bore the date of "1810" and were supposed to be a lot that were left over from the war of "1812". They were pretty good.

Friday, January 29, 1864.

Some were dated "1796" and to all appearance were part of a lot baked for the revolutionary army and were so hard that they had to be brought in contact with a boot-heel to break them. Lastly there came a load of "hard tack" marked B.C. This "knocked us". They looked as if they had been baked before the "Flood", but they did not "flood" the army market a great while, as they were very mouldy and rotten and were speedily transferred to the sinks. I have not the least doubt in the world, that the "1810" lot were 54 years old, having been baked before the war of "1812". And I am equally certain that our "Salt Beef" was not all Beef, as some of the ribs were round, and no

Sunday, January 31, 1864.

Beef has round ribs, but flat ones, and Horses and mules have round ribs; therefore "Salt Horse" or "Salt Mule" are not inappropriate terms for the meat we were indulged with in the army of the Potomac. I intend to keep a Diary while I am in the army and shall make a beginning on February 1^st, but shall not be very particular untill we start for the seat of war. I keep this Diary of events more for my my own amusement than the instructions of others, 'though it may have some little interest for those who come after me.

Ward B. Frothingham

Lieu^t. 59^th Reg^t. Mas.Vet.Vol.

Monday, February 1, 1864.

I was detailed for recruiting service on the 25^th of Jan. at the Head Quarters of the 59^th Reg^t M.V.V. N^o 221 Washington street Boston and entered on my duties the same day. Recruits came in slowly. A bounty of $725. paid to Veterans and $625 to raw recruits. $400 cash in hand when "mustered in" for Veterans and $365 for recruits. A great inducement to men to enlist.

Tuesday, February 2, 1864.

About the same as yesterday as regards enlistments.

The President has called for 200,000 more men in addition to the 300,000 already called for making 500,000 men to be raised before the 1^st of March next: the big bounties stopping then, and the draft commencing.

Wednesday, February 3, 1864.

Recruiting a little brisker to day six men having been added to the glorious 59^th in the course of the forenoon. Made arrangements with the Committee of Medford to have the Select men of that town stop at Col. Geo. Clarks office and examine men to fill their Quota, said men to go into the 59^th if willing as my men and in my Company.

Thursday, February 4, 1864.

Staid at Col. Geo. Clark Jr's office all the forenoon and enlisted one man making six men in all belonging to me. A Quota to fill for the town of Orleans and expect to make a good thing of it tomorrow. We have had beautiful weather for the last three days, almost like May: the thermometer indicating 47º. It clouds up towards night, but is delightfully clear during the first part of the day. The wind to day has been South West.

Friday, February 5, 1864.

At Colonel Clarks office from 9 O'clock untill 12. No men recruited for the 59^th. At Head Quarters from ½ after 12 'till ¼ to 3 O'clock when I went to dinner. A very dull day for recruits, but a very bright one for the weather. A most delightful day, warm and sunny. The wind South west all day. Major General A. E. Burnside reviewed the troops at Readville yesterday. Mud knee deep. About 3000 troops and as many visitors, The men were formed in four columns, the Cavalry in two and the Infantry and Artillery in two.

Saturday, February 6, 1864.

Daniel W. Lawrence and Mr Butters Chairman of the Select men of Medford were at Col. Clarks room for men to fill their Quota. Enlisted three men for the 59^th and all were rejected by D^r Salter. Cha^s B. Smith formerly of my old C^o 22^nd Reg^t enlisted to day as a teamster in the 59^th. A damp day. The wind got round from SW to NE and looks and feels like rain. Had a sick turn after dinner, perhaps the venison did not agree with me. I don't know what it was if it was not that. I am improving under D^r J. D. Mason's treatment, and hope to be quite well again before my Reg^t leaves.

Sunday, February 7, 1864.

Wrote a long letter to John T. Foster C^o "D" 22^nd Reg^t Mass Vols. at Beverly Ford Va.

The wind has been NW all day, and clouded up in the afternoon. The Thermometer stood this morning @ 39º at 7 O'clock. Went to church all day, and heard Mr Ellis. Wrote a note to Mr Nathan Nourse Jr at Burlington, to see Mr Tirrell about getting the "Quota" of Burlington put into the 59^th Reg^t M.V.V. as my men. I shall send the note to Burlington by the milk man.

Monday, February 8, 1864.

A funny kind of a day. Wind SW Snow in the morning: then about 10 O'clock the sun came out and it was quite warm. Clouded up in the middle of the day, and bright starlight at 6 O'clock P.M. Enlisted one man to day making ten men in all. A hoax about Mobile being captured with 400,000 bales of cotton, and 130,000 stand of arms. bought at Whittemores on Washington Street half a ream of "water lined" paper or 240 sheets for $2.00. A nice kind to write on in the army, as the sheets are light, and you can send two or three for one postage.

Tuesday, February 9, 1864.

Enlisted Charles H. Wade to day as a "bugler" in the 59^th 17 years old, 5ft 7in high, and a stout built boy. The wind has been westward all day, and grew colder towards night. The thermometer has ranged from 34º in the morning to 39º in the middle of the day.

Bought a leather neck stock to day to wear instead of a collar. Yesterday evening about 7 o'clock it commenced snowing hard and at 9 o'clock the stars came out, and thus ended a very changeable day, beginning with snow, and then the sun out, then clouding over, then the sun again and lastly a smart snow & stars.

Wednesday, February 10, 1864.

Went to Lexington in "8.40 train" to see about getting the "Quota" put into the 59^th Reg^t. Must see the chairman of the Select men tomorrow. Went to Woburn in the 6½ train to attend a special meeting of "M^t Horeb Lodge" of Free Masons. My Col. took the 1^st and 2^nd degrees. Drove to Burlington after the meeting and staid over night. Dined with Gen^l Chandler and family at Lexington, and came back in the 3.40 train. A fine day cool and bracing, the glass being 19º at 7 o'clock AM and not rising above freezing all day. A little windy, but not enough to be disagreeable. A good fall of snow would be a fine thing. The night is bright star light

Thursday, February 11, 1864.

Slept pretty cold in a cold room although I had plenty of clothes on the bed. The glass was 9º at home in Boston it must have been zero at Burlington. Went to Lexington in an open wagon to see the Select men. Made arrangements for their "Quota" for the 59^th. Saw Mr Tirrell of Burlington on the same subject. Colder than yesterday with less wind, which was SW. It was SW yesterday. Ward 4 recruiting office gave me two men to day making 14 men in all. Bought two plates and a tin dipper to carry to the war with me. Had "horse hide" tops put on my army boots to keep them from soiling my pantaloons.

Friday, February 12, 1864.

A pretty cold and windy day. The wind NW and the glass in the morning was 9º At the Head Quarters of the 59^th Reg^t Mass. Vet. Vols. all day. Got no men there. After shutting up the office, I went to the recruiting office of Ward 4 and they gave me one man and in the ev^g I went into the office in Ward 8 and got another man making 16 men. All signs of a storm seem to have disappeared, and it is cold and clear. I make up this diary every evening, and note whether it is cloudy or star light. It is now bright and clear, the stars very bright. Seven O'clock P.M.

Saturday, February 13, 1864.

Went to the office at 9 O'clock and staid untill 11. No men coming in to enlist while I was there. I called at the recruiting office of Ward 4 & got three men making nineteen. The weather to day has been clear, but windy and very dusty. The glass this morning at 7 O'clock indicated 32º The wind has been NW but at the time that I am writing the sky is overcast. Ward 4 had a war meeting last ev^g and voted to pay for men. the consequence is that they have enlisted more than usual the last two days.

Sunday, February 14, 1864.

Cloudy and a little dampness in the atmosphere. Had Lieu^t Otho E. Michaelis to dinner. He is attached to the "Ordinance Corps" at the arsenal at Watertown Mass. A pleasant young man and seems to understand what he is about. The thermometer this morning was 38º and at 12M it was 45º. It has been 45º at noon for three days in succession. Heard D^r George Ellis of Charlestown preach all day. Two good sermons. wish we could hear him oftener. It looks and feels like a storm, and I think that we shall have one before long. The walking is very fine, it being as dry as spring.

Monday, February 15, 1864.

The stars came out bright and clear by 9 O'clock last night and all signs of a storm passed away. The glass this morning was 15º and the day has been cold and windy The wind began at SW but got SE during the day. A very dull day for recruiting, but two being received at our office, and only one at the office in Ward four, and 0 in the office of Ward Eight. The "draft" will have to be enforced and probably will be by the 10^th of March next. The payment of big "bounties" will stop on the 1^st of next month. I think that the recruiting will be brisker as the time grows shorter. I hope so!

Tuesday, February 16, 1864.

The glass this morning was 31º and cloudy. It commenced to snow about ½ after 9 O'clock and it has snow'd and rained all day. I got three men to day, making 22 in all. I have had some photographs taken by Whipple 96 Washington Street. One large one I gave to Mother, and one to Colonel George Clark Jr. I had a dozen and a half cartes de visites: all good likeness's, and were much admired. It is growing colder and the snow is making fast. I hope it will continue to grow colder, and have one more run of sleighing before winter leaves us. A "war" meeting in Ward 8 this Ev^g to raise money for "recruiting". Also Ward 4 has its second meeting to raise more money

Wednesday, February 17, 1864.

It cleared off about 9 O'clock last night and at 10 O'clock the moon was shining and the stars were very brilliant. This morning the glass was 8º above 0 and it reached 14º by noon. A most disagreeable day windy and the coldest day of the season. Walked around the common before going to the office. No men to day. Octave's wife came on from NY to day to see her Father Mr Curtis who is quite unwell. It is growing colder fast, the thermometer being 4º above 0 at 5 O'clock this P.M. Bought a testament at Walker and Wise's to carry with me to the war in the left vest pocket.

Thursday, February 18, 1864.

A very cold day, the coldest of the lot. The thermometer was 1º below zero this morning and arose to about 11 above zero in the course of the forenoon. I called at Mr Curtis' as I was taking my "constitutional" this morning before going to the office. I saw Carrie and she was looking very well. Not any recruits to day. The cold snap rather deters them from enlisting and going out to camp. But the time is short and they must profit by it. only thirteen days more left for them to get the big bounties in. Packed my knapsack and got it weighed at Mr. Cummings. It weighs 28 pounds.

Friday, February 19, 1864.

A pretty cold day. The glass was 5º above zero not much wind but "still" cold I got 5 men to day making 27 in all. My Colonel J. P. Gould came home with me to tea, and went with Father to hear William Everett's last lecture on the University of Cambridge England. We were very much pleased with him and I am going to ask him to dinner some day. I went last evening to the Tremont theatre to hear "Still waters run deep", and was very much interested. Tom Placide as "Old Potter" was admirable. The company is one of the best in Boston.

Saturday, February 20, 1864.

A delightful day, cold but fine walking weather. The glass this morning was 15º above, and the wind not blowing. it was not dusty. The 24 Mass Reg^t reenlisted for the war, and arrived home to day. They had a good reception and look'd well. The 25^th Reg^t came home yesterday. each Reg^t had about 350 men Recruiting dull, only one man being enlisted in our office. Ward 4 put one man in to the 59^th for Dr Joe Church, I having giving him my chance in that Ward. It looks as if it might storm before many days. We have a vacation on Monday the 22^nd

Sunday, February 21, 1864.

Went to church both parts of the day and heard our minister Mr Ellis. Our old sexton, old as a sexton but not old in years died yesterday, having caught cold last Monday. He had been a faithful servant for 14 years and he will be a great loss. The thermometer indicated 29º this morning and 35º at 3 o'clock P.M. Wrote a long letter to John T. Foster of my old Reg^t in answer to one from him of the 15^th Feb^? The wind has been NE to day for the greater part of the day and it looks very much like rain. I hope it will be a good day tomorrow for the celebration.

Monday, February 22, 1864.

The day opened with the ringing of the bells, but no firing of canons. It has been rainy and wet a part of the day and cloudy all day. The glass was 29º this morning. The stores as a general thing have been closed, and the business of the city has been suspended. The banks have all been closed, and the recruiting offices of the 59^th Reg^t have also been closed. The wind has been NE and the bad weather does not seem to be over yet. At noon the bells were rung and a lot of powder wasted and the same at sundown. I think it is a foolish custom to celebrate Washington's birth day unless you make a regular thing of it.

Tuesday, February 23, 1864.

A warm and pleasant day. The thermometer this morning was 35º. The sun came out about 10 o'clock and the walking has been quite good. I work'd hard to get two men into the 59^th Reg^t and succeeded in doing it. Instead of paying $5.00 a piece for each man as I have had to do before, I made $5.00 on these two, or $2.50 apiece. I bought a cast iron "camp stool" to day for $2.50 A soldier named Perkins was detailed to help me recruit at Head Quarters. He begins tomorrow. I shall not buy any more men as I have enough for a 1^st Lieut. as soon as an opening occurs.

Wednesday, February 24, 1864.

The glass this morning indicated 35º and a damp fog. It rained a little during the forenoon, but the sun came about noon, and it was very pleasant. All the officers of our Reg^t went to Natick last Ev^g to attend a war meeting, speeches, music and dancing were the order of the day or rather Ev^g and the good people of Natick treated us to the very best that the town could afford. We had a glorious time, staid all night and came back in the 8 O'clock train the next morning. Recruiting dull though we added to our number about a dozen names from Natick. One full band of 18 pieces discoursed delicious music

Thursday, February 25, 1864.

After a bountiful breakfast at the house of Squire Swain of Natick, with whom I spent the night, we took the train for Boston, and I went at once to the office to take my usual seat, and wait for recruits to come in; none arriving the office was closed at 4 o'clock P.M. The thermometer this morning was 35º at noon 51º A fine dry warm sunshiny day. ordered an "Army valise" to be made to carry my things in instead of my knapsack, which I shall lend to my servant to carry his things in if he has any to carry. I shall probably get a nigger out where we are going

Friday, February 26, 1864.

The day opened with rain, and soon began to snow; the snow fell quite thick and fast 'till towards the close of the afternoon, when it ceased storming and grew cold; the sun set clear. The thermometer stood at 37º this morning, and 32º at noon. It is reported that the "big bounties" will be extended to April 1^st. If this is so, recruits will still be coning in, and the 59^th Reg^t soon be filled. Got one man to day on my "descriptive list" making 31 in all. We shall "muster in" the 7^th maximum C^o in a day or two, and the Col. will get his commission and the Regiment will be mustered in.

Saturday, February 27, 1864.

The thermometer stood at 27º this morning, and the day has been warm and pleasant. The wind has been NW all day. One more man to day and a Veteran, having gone out a "Corporal" in the 11^th Reg^t Mass Vol. and rose to the rank of 2^nd Lieu^t. but was dismissed from the Reg^t for fighting. This makes 32 men in all, the man enlisted yesterday being a Veteran. The "big bounties" are extended to the 1^st April; how much longer the "draft" will be postponed the Lord only knows. If we can get along without resorting to the draft, so much the better. Letter from John T. Foster at Beverly's ford Va.

Sunday, February 28, 1864.

The wind has been SW all day, and quite damp. People carried their "umbrellas" but did not have occasion to use them. It still continues cloudy at 6 o'clock P.M. and it appears like rain. The thermometer indicated [blank] this morning and the sun has not made his appearance all day. I answered Foster's letter last Ev^g and shall go over to Charlestown to see his wife this Ev^g. I shall send a quart of brandy to Foster in a box that his wife is going to send out to him. It only costs $2. a quart but as John wanted me to get one for him I shall do so. I shall get it of my friend Mr G. D. Dows, Druggist

Monday, February 29, 1864.

The thermometer stood at 45º this morning and the day has been very pleasant. The wind has been NW all day and it is now cold and clear. I had a present on Saturday Ev^g of a strong steel watch chain from Brother Wallace Brown. I had a handsome plated watch key, with a steel end given me by Brother William Pratt. I enlisted a man just before dinner but have not heard from him since. I don't know whether he pass'd the Surgeon or not. All the men of my Regt who have been "mustered in" to the service were to day mustered for pay.

Tuesday, March 1, 1864.

The thermometer this morning stood at 29º and it was cloudy. The sun came out in due time and it was quite warm and pleasant. At 5 o'clock P.M. it commenced to snow and at 7 o'clock the ground is quite white. The wind has been N and NE. Enlisted one man to day. Mr Nourse came to town with a load of vegetables from the farm, and looks very well. Had a steel hook made for my new steel chain. Eat my dinner at Jamiesons and Richardsons; had veal cutlets and a cup of tea. I could not get home to dinner on account of having to travel around with the new recruit or veteran.

Wednesday, March 2, 1864.

The thermometer stood at 29º this morning and it had been snowing all night, and the ground was quite white. A few light sleighs were slipping around and a few parties "mustered out". I got three men to day making 35 in all. The wind has been SW nearly all day I went to Woburn in the ½ after 6 O'clock train to see my Col. take his third and last degree in "Free Masonry". Mr Nourse was waiting for me after the meeting and I rode to Burlington with in a sleigh. not very good sleighing. Col Gould dined with us to day and made himself very agreeable. We went to Mr Still's saloon in Woburn and had roast oysters &c for tea.

Thursday, March 3, 1864.

The thermometer this morning stood at 26º. It has been a clear bright day and a NW wind. Did what I wanted to at Burlington. paid Mr S. Cutler 4.20 for drawers, and took the ¼ after 1 O'clock train for Boston. Got one man in Woburn who is going to bring four or five more with him. We have 800 men in the 59^th and the 7^th C^o is to be mustered in tomorrow, and the 8^th C^o will be "mustered in" on Monday next. My papers for a 2^nd Lieutenants commission were sent to the State House to day and my commission will be issued this week, and I shall either be mustered in to the "G" C^o or "H" C^o four fifths of the 59^th are Veterans, which is a "big thing".

Friday, March 4, 1864.

The thermometer indicated 35º this morning and the day has been delightful. The wind has been NW and it has been clear. I got no men to day, but missed a good chance of getting a good man from N.H. he was left alone a little, and thinking that he might do better somewhere else he "took himself off" C^o "G" was mustered in to day and Cap^t Wilder. I am in for a 2^nd Lieut in the same C^o. There are enough men to muster in C^o "H", the 8^th C^o I shall most likely go to camp next week I am going to a 4^th of March Ball tonight at "Union Hall"—other officers of the 59^th will be present.

Saturday, March 5, 1864.

The thermometer stood at 42º this morning, and the day has been warm and pleasant. Had a fine time at the "ball", got home at 4 o'clk this morning. A fire broke out in the large granite store occupied by Weeks and Potter, wholesale Druggists, and destroyed the building. The steam fire engines are working all through the day and as late as 11 O'clock at night; went to the "Howard" in the Ev^g and saw Jean Hosmer in the "Poor Girl" was much pleased. Got no recruits to day but went all over East Boston and Cambridge Port with a Mr Brackett after Alvin A. Fall who enlisted last Wednesday and wanted a day to move his family. Shall have him on Monday. The wind has been SW

Sunday, March 6, 1864.

The thermometer this morning indicated 47º. It began to rain last night about 11 o'clock and this morning it is thick and foggy and the mist falls heavily. Began to have our Sunday breakfast at 8 o'clock instead of ½ after 8 o'clock as before. The wind was SW in the fore part of the day but got into the NE in the afternoon. And after church in the afternoon I found it raining a little and at 6 o'clock it is raining hard and set in for a long storm. Alvin A. Fall came to see me to day, and is going to meet me at Col. Clarks N^o 3 Tremont Row at 1 o'clock tomorrow. I shall go to Charlestown to night to carry a bottle of brandy to go to John T. Foster

Monday, March 7, 1864.

It rained hard all night, and this morning it held up, but still drizzled. The wind was NE in the morning and the glass stood at 39º. At noon the wind got into the NW and grew colder towards night. No recruits to day at Head Quarters but I look for about ten men tomorrow. The Col. informed me to day that he wanted me to stay at the office and that he would give me the position of a 1^st Lieut. I went to see M^r Edwards to day about a pistol. He keeps a pistol or shooting gallery, and advises me to get "Colt revolver" instead of a "Five shooter". He is a "Free Mason" and I can depend upon what he says. I shall take lessons of him.

Tuesday, March 8, 1864.

The wind "back'd" into the NW last night and at 7 O'clock it was "star" light. This morning the glass stood at 35º and the day has been bright and sunny. I went to see M^r Edwards to day, and saw a "Colts" revolver "five" shooter which he had got for me. I begin to take some lessons of him tomorrow. No recruits to day at our office. The cars broke down and the men that I expected to arrive last Ev^g did not get here. They will probably be at the office tomorrow. A. H. Sweetser the Clerk enlisted 3 men for me yesterday, but did not take their names or descriptive lists. He will find out soon so I can put them on my list.

Wednesday, March 9, 1864.

The thermometer indicated 35º this morning, and the wind has been NW. I did not have time to go to M^r Edwards and take my first lesson in pistol practise, but shall endeavor to do so tomorrow. I got no men to day, but I ran around a good deal, and have got four recruits who will be examined at Faneuil Hall tomorrow at 9 O'clock. I have also a chance of four more men who are to come from Alstead N.H. and will all go into the 59^th. I went to the Boston Theatre in the Ev^g to the benefit of Tom Barry. The Comedy of Man and Wife was the piece, a slow thing. I write this after the performance 12 O'clock M.

Thursday, March 10, 1864.

The wind was in the NW quarter this morning but got into the S at noon and into the E at the close of the day. It is cloudy at 7 O'clock P.M. and looks as if it might rain. I got 3 recruits to day, one of them in the place of Cha^s B. Smith, who was not accepted as a teamster on a/c of one eye being out. The right one. The thermometer stood at 32º this morning but the largest part of the day has been sunny and pleasant. Clerk Sweetser filled out a set of my papers while I was out of the office, and enlisted Cha^s E. Leland who will be examined tomorrow by D^r Ingalls of the 59^th

Friday March 11, 1864.

A nasty dirty miserable wet day, rain, rain, rain: and out all day long tramp, tramp, tramp, and only got one man for the 59^th Regt and he may be rejected at the camp. I wish the Regt was full and going off tomorrow. I am sick and tired of recruiting. The wind has been NE all day and the glass this morning stood at 42º. I am going to a concert and dance at City Hall Charlestown to night. The affair is got up by our Regimental Band and all the officers of the 59^th are invited. I wish to get acquainted with the officers before we go off. I took my first lesson in pistol shooting this PM did not make out to hit the "Bulls eye"

Saturday, March 12, 1864.

The thermometer stood at 40º this morning, and the day has been sunny and pleasant. I did not feel very well this morning after my last night's dissipation, and I did not leave the house 'till after 12 o'clock M. Got no recruits to day, but I filled out the papers for two. I have not heard whether they pass'd or not. left my heavy boots at the boot makers to have them "treed" as they are a little close about the ancle and they gall my feet. The wind has been NW all day and the night is starry. Col Cha^s E. Griswold of the 56 Regt Mass Vet. is under arrest fort inhuman treatment of six of his men

Sunday, March 13, 1864.

The day opened finely. The wind was SW and it was bright and sunny. Edward drove Mother and Ellen in a carryall as Franklin has gone away on a vacation. I went to church without my outside coat it was so warm. The wind got into the SE and at 3 o'clock it began to sprinkle and after church in the afternoon it rained hard. The glass stood at 40º this morning. Dr Lothross preached this afternoon. If I did not go to sleep I came pretty near it, so near there was no fun in it. Bought a bottle of "Bourbon Whiskey Punch" or "Congress Bourbon Punch" to try. It was pretty fine for army use.

Monday, March 14, 1864.

The thermometer this morning stood at 37º and the day has been a fine one. The wind has NW and it grew colder as it drew on towards night. Mr Bradley brought his son William in to day to enlist him. I drew up his papers and he was examined and went to camp. I went to camp this PM to see about Jasper Smith a man that I enlisted. He has had fits and will have to be discharged. It is enough to give any one "fits" to have anything to do with recruiting. I am going to the Tremont Theatre to night to see the new play of the Duke's Motto.

Tuesday, March 15, 1864.

The thermometer this morning stood at 28º and it was bright and pleasant. The wind has been NW all day. It clouded up towards night and the barometer indicates rain. William Bradley came to town from Readville last night, having failed to pass the Surgeon at camp because he was "immature". I am going to Roxbury to night to pass the Ev^g with Lieu^t Potter and a few friends. There is a report that the President will issue a new call for 200,000 more troops to make up for those "sea-faring men" who have been taken from the army to supply the Navy. We 822 men accounted for in the 59^th Reg^t M.V.V.

Wednesday, March 16, 1864.

The thermometer this morning stood at 30º. Cloudy and the wind has been NW all day. Got two recruits to day. A new^? call for 200,000 men to be raised within 30 days. God only knows how or where they are going to get them. I went to see D^r George S. Jones to day about my pension papers, and I think that I shall draw my money up to the 4^th of this month, as I am not "mustered in" and have no commission yet. $16 is "not to be sneezed at" and I go in for taking all you can get, especially from the government suckers in the Pension Office—

Thursday, March 17, 1864.

A fine bright morning and a sunny day. The thermometer stood at 20º this morning, and the wind has been NW. "Saint Patrick's day in the morning". All the Irish turned in their best toggery and crowded the streets and "bar rooms". Every thing pass'd off quietly, though there was a considerable rum drank. No recruits at "Head Quarters" to day. I went to Roxbury this ev^g to meet a few friends at the house of Mr A. H. Sweetser. Eat apples, drunk cider played whist and had a good time generally. I write this after I got home at 11 o'clock. All "moonlight and starlight"

Friday, March 18, 1864.

The day opened bright and sunny with the wind SW. It began to cloud over before we had done breakfast. The glass indicated 35º The wind got into the SE by noon and kept there during the day. No recruits at the Head Qrs to day but we have, I hear, 70 men towards the next C^o the 9^th C^o or I C^o. I went to the Museum to night to see the new play of Rossdale or the Rifle Ball. I was much pleased. It is a "Big thing". The wind still holds S of E and it looks like foul weather. I write this after I got home at 12 O'clock M.

Saturday, March 19, 1864.

The thermometer this morning stood at 35º and the sun came out bright and the day has been a pleasant one. The wind has been NW all day. My army valise came home this afternoon, and I shall pack it tomorrow. The 30^th Regt Mass. Vol. arrived home to day having reenlisted for the war. They numbered nearly 400 men and look'd finely and marched splendidly. The band was playing the march from "Faust" as the Reg^t marched by the State House on their way to "Faneuil" Hall where a fine collation awaited them, that beat any collation heretofore given to any other Reg^t

Sunday, March 20, 1864.

This morning at 7 O'clock the sun came out. The wind has been SW and the glass this morning indicated 30º. I packed my army valise to day and with my two woolen and two rubber and with my knapsack and my officers strap fastened on the top, makes it look quite heavy. I shall have it weigh'd tomorrow and see how much it weighs. We had D^r Hodge to preach for us to day. A good sermon As usual I went to church both parts of the day. I hope to be more successful this week in recruiting

Monday, March 21, 1864.

The thermometer this morning stood at 20º and the day has been sunny, but rather on the March order. The wind has been NW and SW and it has been quite cold all day. My army valise weighs 40 lbs all packed. I enlisted one recruit at Head Quarters to day, but he was only 18 years old and I am afraid that he will not pass the Surgⁿ at the camp. I had a present of an army candle stick which when opened makes two, from M^r Leighton of A. W. Pollard 1⁰⁰ Court St.—

Cousin Eben Frothingham came here on a visit and is to remain here some time. I have a bed fellow in him to night.

Tuesday, March 22, 1864.

To day has been sunny, but windy, dusty and cold. The thermometer stood at 19º this morning, and the wind at first was NW but got into the NE and feels like a storm. No recruits to day. Cousin Eben and I are going to the Melodeon to night to see the Mr Anderson in his famous "World of Magic". I bought a compact blacking apparatus consisting of a brush and box of blacking all combined. quite an affair. I bought a pair of gauntlets the other day for $3 and sold them to Serg^t Major Keyes to day for the same as he wanted them. I bought another pair this afternoon.

Wednesday, March 23, 1864.

The thermometer this morning stood at 26º and it was dark and cloudy, and the wind E by N. At breakfast time it began to snow quite fast and it has been snowing all day. It has been quite cold and disagreeable. I have got one recruit to day, and Lieu^t John Foley, who was in the office at the time enlisted a veteran, one of his old Regt the 13^th We have men enough in the 9^th C^o to muster it in. We shall be off by the first to the middle of April, and the 9^th Corps will be attached to the Army of the Potomac under Lt. Gen^l U. S. Grant, and we expect to have something to do.

Eben and I go to "Morris Bros." to night

Thursday, March 24, 1864.

The thermometer this morning at 30º, and the wind has been NW all day. It has been clear and pleasant, and the snow has entirely disappeared. I got no recruits to day at Head Quarters. The Col. was not very well when he left last Ev^g and has not been in to day. I bought a "silver Corps badge" to day and shall wear it on the left breast of my coat. Serg^t Potter and Sweetser have both got one just like it It is in the shape of a "shield". I went to W. Chester Park to night to a social party and write this at 1 O'clk A.M.

Friday, March 25, 1864.

To day has been a very pleasant day. A perfect day to be in the country. The thermometer this morning stood at 34º and the wind was in the NW in the first part of the day, and in the afternoon the wind got into the SE and it is clouding over. Cousin Eben & I are going to the "Buckeye Minstrells" to night. It is the last night of Eben's visit. No recruits to day. Recruiting slow all over the City in the different wards. I changed my woolen shirt last Ev^g for a "white" one, and think that I caught a cold by so doing. I did not once think that there would be so much difference between them.

Saturday, March 26, 1864.

I have been as busy as the Devil in a gale of wind and got no recruits I have been doing nothing, and hard at work at it, and an orderly to help me. The thermometer stood at 36º this morning, and the wind has been NE all day. It looks like rain. Son Nat came home from Kingston to day to spend his vacation of four weeks. He looks very well and has grown tall and stout. Cousin Eben Frothingham went home to day. I enjoyed his visit very much. Ellen is looking over Nat's compositions, which are very creditable for a boy of 8 years. He writes a very good hand.

Sunday, March 27, 1864.

The thermometer this morning stood at 36º and the wind has been SE all day. I wrote a letter to John T. Foster of "D" C^o 22^nd Reg^t Mass Vols. in answer to one from him received last Monday. I also wrote a letter to W^m H. Nelson alias Curly in answer to one from him from the U.S.A. Gen^l Hospital York Pa. I went to church both parts of the day. Heard Mr Barton in the afternoon. Saw R. S. Nodine my former orderly Serg^t D C^o 22^nd Reg^t Mass Vols. He informed me that our old Captain J. H. Symonds was in jail in Canada for going there after niggers for the U.S.A. or volunteers ditto

Monday, March 28, 1864.

To day has been another fine day. the wind SE and the thermometer indicating 35º Bought hat or cap, and a pair of shoes, and had his boots heel'd and soled ready for next winter's campaign. No recruits to day at Head Quarters though the Reg^t is gradually filling up from some quarter or another The papers on Sunday morning give us credit for 894 men. I paid Mr Edwards $25 to day for my pistol, and the necessary appurtenances, including instruction in the use of it. I am going to get a case to carry it in. Go to Roxbury to night to a party at Mr Roulstone's.

Tuesday, March 29, 1864.

The thermometer this morning stood at 37º and the wind SE. The sun came out and went in, and "open and shut is a sign of wet". Got no recruits to day. Bought Nat a pair of slippers. Had a nice time at Mr Roulstones last Ev^g The party was expressly in honor of the Officers of the 59^th Regt M.V.V. We played whist, eukre muggins danced and had some music. Had a supper which was a "big thing" and got home at 1 O'clock having to walk all the way home from Roxbury. My application for my commission was sent to the State House to day. I shall not be a long time here now. I had six more photographs struck off by Whipple

Wednesday, March 30, 1864.

A wet, rainy day with the glass at 34º in the morning and the wind NE. I joined the Union League last Ev^g in Cambridge Port with A. H. Sweetser, the clerk at "Head Quarters". It was raining when I came home at 11 O'clock last night It has been raining and hailing all day long, and the walking is very treacherous, it being slippery. No recruits at our office, but they put 11 men through the office at Charlestown to day. Tomorrow is the last day of the U.S. Bounties, and if the men wish to enlist tomorrow is the time. I got me a gutta percha drinking cup to day & a tin box made to hold it.

Thursday, March 31, 1864.

The thermometer this morning stood at 33º and the wind NE. It stormed all night long, snow hail and rain. It was pegging away at it as hard as it could pelt at 8 o'clock in the morning. It snowed all day long in quite large flakes, and the wind was high as yesterday. I went to a meeting of the Washington Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons at Roxbury to see A. H. Sweetser our Col's Clerk take his degrees. No men recruited at my office to day but 20 came down from Marlboro for the 59. Faneuil Hall was kept open untill midnight for recruits as the bounties cease after that hour. My pistol is presented to me by sister Ellen. It is a beauty

Friday, April 1, 1864.

The storm still continues. The thermometer indicated 36º this A.M. and the wind is still in the East. This is the third day of the storm. It has made out to storm nearly all day, and the ways have been very muddy and wet. I received my income to day from my "Gov^t Notes", amounting to 23.79. No recruits to day but two are coming tomorrow to enlist for the town of North Reading. Mr Caleb Curtis President of the "Neptune Insurance Company" died at 12 o'clock to day. He will be missed by the whole community, a fine man & a good citizen. he died as he had always lived a Christian.

Saturday, April 2, 1864.

The storm still continues at 8 o'clock A.M. The thermometer stood at 37º this morning. This is the 4^th day of foul weather; how long Oh Lord is it going to last. when shall we ever see the sun again? No men to day, the rascally weather keeps them away. It has been a kind of drizzle all day, and about 5 o'clock it began to rain hard for a wonder, for this is only the fourth day. I bought two pair of white cotton gloves to day, and a pair of slippers with a good pair of heels to wear in the army. Mrs Durivage, Uncle Everetts sister died yesterday and was buried to day. The 26^th Reg^t Mass. Vols came home to day, having reenlisted for the war. They made a fine appearance. The wind has been NE all day.

Sunday, April 3, 1864.

The storm raged all through the night fiercer than ever. It blew a hurricane and snowed and rained and froze. The glass stood at 31º this morning and the wind still holds NE. To day is the fifth day of storm. The sun appeared to day at 1 O'clock and for a wonder, was out about two hours. At 6 O'clk the wind is still NE and very disagreeable out of doors. The wind has been blowing a gale all day and it has been a very cold and dull day. Brother Octave preached at Cambridge Port. If I had been aware of it in time I should have gone out to hear him.

Monday, April 4, 1864.

The stars came out last Ev^g but it is cloudy as usual this morning. The thermometer this morning stood at 36º. It looks and feels like snow and the wind is NE. Our opposite neighbor Mr Carney has a "crape" on his door. He has been sick about three weeks. One recruit to day at my office. The city gov^t have voted to pay to every recruit $125. besides all other bounties, untill the 15^th April when all bounties will cease and the draft will begin (if it begins at all). I am going to a meeting of St Johns Lodge of F. & A. M. to night with a few officers of the 59^th We are accredited with 924 men in camp at Readville. It has been cold and disagreeable to day. The sun has been out nearly all day.

Tuesday, April 5, 1864.

The thermometer this morning stood at 35º and the wind has been NE and E. It has been cloudy and cold, and about noon it began to mist. I filled out the "papers" for 3 men to day and I hope they will pass the Surgeon at camp I attended a meeting of the "Union League" to night in Cambridge Port. I had a good time. I got my commission from the State House to day. It dates from April 1^st 1864. I am not "mustered in" yet. I have one man receipted for me at Charlestown from Burlington, if it is not Billy Bradley, I have got one man more. he would not pass

Wednesday, April 6, 1864.

The day has been sunny but cold, and the wind has been NE. It got N at the close of the day. The thermometer stood at 35º this morning. No recruits at my office to day. Broke a bottle of Champagne at dinner in honor of my "commission". Father drank "to the Commission and the Commissioned" may the one never be less but the other be greater. A great fire took place last night about 12 O'clock, burning the Winthrop House and Free Mason Hall, making the whole one heap of ruins. The F.M. suffered most, losing all their valuable pictures. Stuart's original of Washington and portraits of "Past Masters" since 1780. All the records were burnt also.

Thursday, April 7, 1864.

The thermometer this morning indicated 34º and the wind has been NE but it has been a fine day, sunny and warm. This is "Fast day", and I occupied the fore part of the day in writing a letter of 6 pages to "Curly" Nelson at the U.S.A. Gen^l Hospital York Pa. in answer to one that he wrote me, and which I received last Tuesday. I received a letter from J. T. Foster last Tuesday which I shall answer next Sunday. I went to the Boston Theatre to night to see Mamselle Vestvali in "Games" or the "Jewess Mother". was much pleased. I wrote this after I got home.

Friday, April 8, 1864.

The day has been pleasant, the sun shining at long intervals. The glass indicated 44º this morning and the wind has been NE a great part of the time. I enlisted one man to day for the "Quota" of Roxbury, and he is in camp. I have now on my list 35 men out of nearly 40 that have passed the Surgeon at the camp. We received our "marching orders" to day and shall leave as soon as it is possible to get our Reg^t full, in 10 or 12 days at the farthest. I am going to the New Tremont theatre to night to see "The Fair One with Golden Locks". I purchased a pocket album to day to take with me to the war with photographs.

Saturday, April 9, 1864.

The thermometer this morning stood at 43º and the wind as usual was NE. I bought an India rubber Havelock yesterday to put on my cap when I am in the army and out in a storm. I got no men to day. They have put through 11 men from Charlestown Head Quarters for the County of Middlesex I dropped in this Ev^g to see Bowers & Prendergasts Minstrells and had a pretty poor time of it. They are at the Melodeon. Nat went to Andrews Hall to see M^cAllister the famous juggler. he enjoyed himself very much. It is starlight and clear as I write this 11 O'clock P.M.

Sunday, April 10, 1864.

The thermometer this morning indicated 39º and the day has been stormy. The wind has been SE. It began to snow about one O'clock P.M. and it has snowed fast all the time. It looked out of season while at dinner to see the snow falling in large flakes, and coming down in great quantities. I was going to see Aunt Susan Brooks to night, but it is so stormy I shall wait till another time. I paid Mr Edwards for engraving my pistol $1.50. I answered John T. Foster's letter to day six pages long large sheets. Went to church to day I think for the last time before I go away to the war. I went to sleep both parts of the day

Monday, April 11, 1864.

When I awoke this morning, it was snowing as hard as it could. The glass indicated 35º and the wind was NE. I enlisted one more to day, and sent one to Roxbury to do the same. An order came through Gov^r Andrew from Gen^l Burnside to have our Reg^t ready to be at Annapolis on the 18^th of the month. We lack about 75 men and the Col offered $12 a piece for every man that was mustered into the 59^th Reg^t. I went to one or two places and made arrangements for 14 men on those conditions, and this week will probably see the 59^th Reg^t full. If so, we shall be on the march for Annapolis next week.

Tuesday, April 12, 1864.

It was still snowing when I awoke this morning, and the chestnut trees were loaded with snow as in mid winter. The glass stood at 32º. The wind was N this morning but it got into the NW for a wonder during the day. I attended a meeting of the Union League to night and had a good time I got no men to day at my office, but I filled out or signed 100 papers for Col. Geo Clark Jr for him to put all the men that he could into the 59^th I bought a felt hat and cord to day for a "fatigue" and a new gold pin in the shape of a shield with the square and compass.

Wednesday, April 13, 1864.

The thermometer this morning stood at 33 and the wind has been NE all day as usual. I filled out the papers for two men at my office to day. I am ordered to report at camp on Monday next and shall do so if I am alive and well. We leave the state some time next week. I went to Morris Brothers to night with Cap^t Warren Potter of our Reg^t We saw "the House that Jack built". It was a good hit and we enjoyed ourselves much. It is snowing again at 11 O'clock P.M. Oh for one day of sun shine and a NW wind

Thursday, April 14, 1864.

The sun came out to day and the wind back'd into the NW but did not stay long then before it got into the NE again. The glass stood at 38º this morning. I had a gold pen, pencil and case given to me yesterday. I bought a new Masonic pin to day, the square & compass engraved upon a "shield" our "Corps badge". We only want 20 more men to make up our 10^th C^o and it will probably be mustered in tomorrow or Saturday. I had a holster made for my pistol to day. I bought the new pin last Tuesday and had my name engraved upon the back to day. I had a long letter from Curly Nelson to day I bought a pair of heel protectors "a big thing"

Friday, April 15, 1864.

The day opened with a bright sun and the wind was NW. The thermometer stood at 38º in the morning. Recruiting slow but still coming in. Only a dozen men wanted to "muster in" the 10^th C^o. I bought a pint of the best whiskey and had it put into my flask. I called this Ev^g to see Aunt Susan and found her well. Col. Gould closes his office tomorrow night. We most of us go into camp tomorrow but the Col. lets me stay 'till Monday. I had a new pair of heel irons put on to my boots to day. I had a letter from John T. Foster to day.

Saturday, April 16, 1864.

It has been a beautiful day with the wind NW and the thermometer in the morning stood at 38º We closed the Head Quarters of the 59^th Regt Mass. Vet. Vols. this evening, and all the detailed Officers are ordered to report at Camp Meigs Readville this evening. I am permitted by the Col. to stay and report on Monday. I shall not probably come to Boston again before I leave for the seat of war. Went to "Laurel" to have him print a dozen copies of my standing photograph in "fighting trim". The men are still coming in on the Cols $12 arrangement. he wants about 50 more men.

Sunday, April 17, 1864.

A lovely day. The wind NW and the thermometer stood at 40º in the morning. I went to Church all day for the last time in "old" New England. Who knows what may come to pass within the next three years, or the war. May God preserve and defend me from all harm & bring me out of the fiery ordeal through which I am to pass in safety and honor. "His will not mine be done". I go to camp tomorrow afternoon and if it is pleasant my Brother Edward is going to drive me out. Called on Cousin W^m G. Brooks and family to see if they had any message to send to Susan Phillips, who is a nurse at Annapolis.

Monday, April 18, 1864.

The glass this morning stood at 38º and the wind was NW. This is the last time for a good while that I shall mark down the wind and the temperature for in camp there is no thermometer and no way to tell just which way the wind is, as there are no vanes. I bought a small bottle of ink to day and got my photographs at Laurels. Arrived in camp at Readville at 6 o'clock P.M. and reported to Brig. Gen^l Pierce. We had a fine drive out. I waited at the depot till nearly 11 o'clock before I could get my valise. I am detailed on Brigade Guard tomorrow. I sleep in Cap^t Kingsley's quarters

Tuesday, April 19, 1864.

I passed a comfortable night and woke at 5 O'clock at the roll of the drum I was detailed for Brigade Guard I went through Guard Mounting with a few mistakes, and have been on duty all day. I shall go to my quarters to night at 11 O'clock and sleep till ½ after 5 O'clock tomorrow morning. I am Lieu^t of the 1^st relief of 56 men. The Col. wants me to go to the city of Boston tomorrow to look out for some men. I may stay over night. I board with the C^o at $10 per month. I live well enough for any one. The men all seem to like me, and I shall try to gain their respect.

Wednesday, April 20, 1864.

I awoke this morning at 5 O'clk and got up at ½ after and reported at the Guard House. I was relieved from guard at ½ after 9 O'clk and it came on to storm in earnest shortly after. It began with snow and has continued to snow and rain at intervals during the rest of the day. I came to Boston from camp in the ¼ past 10 O'clock and I shall probably not go back again before the day after tomorrow. I got 8 men at Ward 4 this afternoon for the 59^th Regt. The 16^th Batt^? went off yesterday and were escorted to the Depot at Readville by the 59^th Mass. Vet. Vols. They all made a fine appearance. I had the sliding strap on my sword belt fastened to keep my sword from slipping about.

Thursday, April 21, 1864.

I slept as sound as a log last night and did not wake up to know any thing untill nearly ½ after 6 O'clock. The day has been fine and the streets full. I bought a pair of white buck gloves to day to wear on "dress parade". The Col. did not get to Head Quarters 'till ½ after 2 O'clock so I shall not be mustered in 'till tomorrow. Cap. W. T. Potter has been detailed at my old office to answer questions concerning the Reg^t. I got men at Ward 8 to day. The 10^th C^o of the 59^th Reg^t was mustered in this morning: it numbers 97 good men. The 32^nd Maine Reg^t Vet. Vols. passed through here yesterday on their way to the seat of war. They looked well.

Friday, April 22, 1864.

I could not be mustered to day so I shall have to spend another night and try it on again tomorrow. There are five of us waiting to be mustered. Cap. Potter & Cochrane, Lieu^ts Burick, Smith and myself. We shall report at camp during the day I think. The day has been quite pleasant, the sun being out all day. I spent the Ev^g with Mr & Mrs Hubbard at their pretty house on Beacon St. The moon was very bright at 11 O'clock ~~last~~ to night and every thing promises a fair day tomorrow. I write this on Saturday morning after breakfast. The "Free Masons" of the Reg^t (Officers) are going to make Col. Gould a present of a "Masonic" pin

Saturday, April 23, 1864.

The day began with clouds and rain, but it it cleared up in a great measure, and was a warm and not unpleasant. I waited at Head Quarters to see the Col. and when he came in I went to Major Clarks office No 2 Bulfinch St. and was mustered into the U.S. service. I am going to camp to night in the ¼ of 10 o'clock train, and shall not be likely to see Boston again for a long time. I got a canteen to day for my water. The rolls of every C^o are made out for pay and we shall be paid off on Monday 25^th and leave the following day. I got two sets of 1^st L^t bars to day to put on my straps

Sunday, April 24, 1864.

I passed a comfortable night at camp and was aroused about 5 O'clock in the morning by the bugles of the 4^th Cavalry (colored) blowing the "reveille" and the drums of our Reg^t beating the same. By order of Col. Gould I came to Boston to day to see about some men that I had got for him. I walked as far as Jamaica Plain, went to see my Brother Thomas and took the horse cars into the city and arrived in time for dinner. The folks were a little surprised at seeing me again so soon. I went to Roxbury this Ev^g to see Cap. Potter, and got a descriptive list of some 8 or 9 men to carry to camp with me tomorrow, and got a Cap's receipt that the men are mustered.

Monday, April 25, 1864.

I went out to camp this morning at 25m. after 7 O'clock and got my papers all right. I left the camp at Readville in the ¼ after 10 O'clock, and went to the State House to meet Col. Gould. I saw the Col. after I had done some business such as, getting a box made for our C^o to carry the C^o books in, and going to the Beach Street Barracks for some guns and equipments for C^o B of our Reg^t. I stay over night and have got to meet Col. Gould at the State House at 9 O'clock tomorrow morning. Cap. Potter sleeps with me tonight. We are paid off to day and leave tomorrow at 12 O'clock noon

Tuesday, April 26, 1864.

Cap. Potter breakfasted with us this morning and as I could not get to camp in the ½ after 10 O'clock train Franklin drove me out. We got ready and left Readville in a train of 17 cars drawn by two engines. We arrived at Providence at ¼ before 9 O'clock P.M. where we had an extra engine hitched on. We continued on our way rejoicing and reached New London Conn. at 11 O'clock and took the steam boat Commodore. The officers all have state rooms and I turned in with Lieu^t Goldsmith about 1 O'clock AM

Wednesday, April 27, 1864.

I passed a comfortable night on board of the boat, and in the morning we found ourselves steaming towards New York which place we reached about 10 O'clock AM after a delightful sail, and the men behaving admirably. We changed to another boat without going ashore and sailed for Amboy. We reached the latter place about 1 O'clock and took the cars for Camden, where we arrived safely at ½ after 6. We took the boat for Phil^a and had a collation there at 8. We then took baggage cars for Baltimore, packed like hogs and I slept leaning upon the hilt of my sword

Thursday, April 28, 1864.

After a number of stoppages and delays we reached Baltimore at 11 O'clock P.M. and had a collation and got ready to start in some more cattle cars for Washington, where we arrived at 4 O'clock AM and were quartered in the Soldiers retreat. My Co "G" has all the men it had when we left Readville Mass. I went all over the City of Washington to find Henry A. Wise's house. I found him at home about ¼ past 9 O'clock PM but his wife was not at home. I am invited to take breakfast with him tomorrow morning at 8 O'clock. I had a plate of steamed oysters before I turned in

Friday, April 29, 1864.

I called to see Mrs H. A. Wise this morning and found that the breakfast table ~~table~~ had not been cleared off. I sat down, and had a cup of tea, a piece of toasted bread and butter, and [?]. We left Washington at ½ after 9 O'clock and marched to the boat, and were transported to Alexandria, where we were lodged at the "Soldiers Rest". We were tired enough to go to our blankets at 8 O'clock. This is a good clean place, and they feed us well, and there are good accommodations for a wash. we shall leave here tomorrow

Saturday, April 30, 1864.

I awoke this morning at the tap of the drum and got my boy to fold up the blankets and be ready for a start. I have had no good opportunity to write home yet and I shall wait untill I have got to a place where we shall be likely to stop. We left the Soldiers rest this forenoon and marched about ¾ of a mile where we had our tents delivered to us and camped for the night in the rain. We have shelter tents one to each two men and one to each officer. I was glad enough to turn in and go to sleep. There is no knowing how long we shall stay here, but not long

Sunday, May 1, 1864.

I slept like a top and was as bright as a new penny. I had a good breakfast of hard tack and coffee previous to which I had a good wash. We are under orders to march at 3 O'clock this P.M. for Manassas. I wrote a letter yesterday to Father & Mother and one to day to my friend Kenny. We go in light marching orders the men leaving their dress coats to be packed in C^o boxes to be left here. Our reveille beats at ½ after one O'clock tomorrow. Cap Wilder, orderly Farr and myself went to Alex. City this P.M. for some whiskey &c.

Monday, May 2, 1864.

We were awake by the drum and got our hot coffee and hard tack. We fell into line at ½ after 2 O'clock and missed the 3 O'clock train for Bealton station on the Orange and Alex R.R. so we had to wait in the road till 7 O'clock when we took the cars. A battery went by while we were waiting. Trains of cars are passing through Alex every day for the front, the men riding on the tops of the cars. We got to Bealton at 12 O'clock M. After resting about ½ an hour we marched 3 miles to the front where we camped on a hill and it came on to rain in torrents and wet us through

Tuesday, May 3, 1864.

When the drum sounded this morning at 5 O'clock I threw off my blankets and got up. The morning was bright and sunny. It clouded up before noon. Our C^o on picket to day started from camp about 12 O'clock and arrived at our picket post at 2. John T Foster of C^o "D" 22^d Mass Vols. came to see me just as I was about to leave. I shall try to get relieved from picket. I have caught no cold as yet by bathing all over yesterday and getting wet through. besides our present camp is at the Rappahannock Station.

Wednesday, May 4, 1864.

I was up all night long on picket. There was considerable firing by the sentinels, but only at stumps of trees &c. We were called in at 6 O'clock in the morning, joined the Reg^t and marched to the Rappahannock river, where we rested till ½ 6 O'clock P.M., when we marched to Brandy Station and after waiting an hour or more we had the pleasure of being marched back again and encamped for the night our "canopy like starry decked Heavens". We did not wrap ourselves in our blankets for the night till nearly 11 O'clock. I slept with my equipments all on

Thursday, May 5, 1864.

We were aroused in the morning at ½ after 4 O'clock by the bugle blowing the Reveille. We made our coffee and eat our hard tack and fell in to line at 6 O'clock and started for Germania Ford on the Rapid Ann river 12 miles to march in a hot sun. We made frequent rests and marched slow. I am getting tough and sun browned. The country is quite level here and the roads are in good marching order. We reached the ford at 5 O'clock P.M. We camp'd for the night and started in the morning at ½ past 4 O'clock. The enemy were driven from this place this P.M. and the firing in front is heavy

Friday, May 6, 1864.

As I said, we started at ½ after 4 this morning and marched as fast as the enemy retreated or were driven back. At ½ past 6 O'clock A.M. we were halted just this side of where the battle is raging. We expect to go into the action before night. We are attached to the 9^th Corps 1^st Brigade 1^st Division under Commanding Major Gen^l A. E. Burnside. We rested ½ an hour, when we were marched to the field and went into the fight at 8 O'clock and were outflanked and fell back after 3 hours fighting. My Cap. is missing, my 1^st L^t is sun struck, and I am in command of C^o G. We may go in the fight again this P.M. it is now ½ past 3 O'clk

Saturday, May 7, 1864.

This fight is called the Battle of the Rapid Ann or "Mine Run". It began Weds. May 4^th at the Germania Ford at 4 O'clock P.M. under Gens. Grant, Mead and Burnside. We were marched to a road, and threw up breastworks by cutting down trees and throwing up dirt. We are to stay here all night and hold the place. We have driven the enemy yesterday nearly two m. This morning we strengthened our works and prepared to hold our ground. Cap Potter was wounded and taken from the field. He died last night. I tried to find his body but without success. I sincerely mourn his loss for he was as a Brother.

Sunday, May 8, 1864.

We guarded the road last Ev^g and started for Fredericksburg at ½ after 12 O'clock AM. We halted 10 miles from Fredericksburg at 5 O'clock and boiled our coffee and fried some beef and pork. Lee is retreating and it makes us feel gay. Last Ev^g while we were in the road the 1^st Mass Cav^y, 22^d N.Y. Cav^y and two other Reg^ts of Cav^y came by. Every man is on the move to follow up the enemy Letters are stopped from the army but not to it. We started after breakfast and dined at Chancellorsville, when we marched about a mile and formed a line of battle in the woods on Fredericksburg Heights.

Monday, May 9, 1864.

Co "G" two Com^d Officers and 600 men went on picket last night. I for a wonder remained in camp. We were aroused by the bugle & the order to fall in about ½ past 2 O'clock and started in the direction of Fredericksburg. Hard marches in the hot sun and every time we rested down we go wherever we halt and go to sleep, or lay at our ease. A report is abroad that Captain Potter is alive and doing well. I pray God it may be so. We arrived at Spotsylvania C.H. after marching 3 miles and countermarching 7 miles in 1½ hours. An awful hot day, and the men gave out by companies.

Tuesday, May 10, 1864.

I had a comfortable night and was not routed up till quite late in the morning. Brig. Gen^l T. G. Stevenson was mortally wounded this morning while eating his breakfast. He was shot in the back of the head by a musket ball and the ball lodged in the temple. He died about 11 O'clock AM. We started from our camp about 5 O'clock P.M. and marched about a mile to the front, where we formed line of battle behind breastworks in pine woods. Col. Gould was sun struck on Sunday last he has hopes of being able to join us tomorrow. Gen. Stevenson was shot by a sharpshooter from the top of a tree

Wednesday, May 11, 1864.

I pass'd a very comfortable night and awoke in good condition. The fighting yesterday was severe, the cannonading and musketry were heavy. The cheers of our brave fellows were tremendous as they charged and took the enemies rifle pits. This morning the enemy have gone, perhaps to take up another position and make another stand. I lost my Masonic ring this morning while washing. The fight yesterday was near Spotts^Va C.H. I found my ring. It was found by one of the Regt and returned to me. It rained all night and I got wet through to the skin

Thursday, May 12, 1864.

On picket during the first part of the night. We were called up early in the morning, made our coffee, cooked some fresh pork which some of our C^o shot as well as some veal killed in the same way. At 8 O'clock A.M. we were marched into a fight and a pretty severe one. At 5 O'clock P.M. our C^o had lost 10 men in killed & wounded & our l^st L^t Morse was badly wounded through the hip, and I can show a hole in the top of my hat. It has rained hard all the time and we are all soaked. The guns are almost useless. I write this at 8 O'clock P.M.

Friday, May 13, 1864.

The firing continued untill after dark, and the pickets were popping away all the night. I had no coat, nor any blanket, and spent the night in walking about, or sitting down upon the wet ground without a dry rag on me. L^t Gen. J. Morse died of his wounds. We lost out of C^o "G" 9 men wounded and 2 killed. This morning we found the "Rebs" gone from their rifle pits. So we fortified ourselves by building a solid breastwork of large trees in case of another attack. Gen^l Grant sent 10,000 prisoners to the rear yesterday. We moved to the front at ½ after 12 P.M. and drew up in line of battle in a heavy wood at ½ after 1 O'clock

Saturday, May 14, 1864.

We lay in line all night, and were under fire pretty much all the time. It rained all night long and I had to walk about to keep from falling asleep. The rebels all gone this morning. We shall most likely follow them at some time to day and fight them again. I have not had my clothes dry since Thursday morning last. Wet, cold and hungry. We have plenty of fighting to do, but our rations are scarce and not much of them. I was so sleepy last night that I fell asleep four times standing up. We moved into rifle pits in the woods which our men dug last night. We were stationed at ¼ past 1 O'clock P.M.

Sunday, May 15, 1864.

We stayed in the rifle pits all night. It was bright moon light 'till the moon set, when it clouded up, and for a wonder it began to rain, and rained hard 'till morning. Cap. Wilder went to the hospital yesterday and I am in command of the C^o, and have appointed orderly Farr 2^d L^t (acting). We had a quiet time last night. no signs of the "Rebs" and hardly any firing. We are hard up for rations only drawing one day's grub & having to make it last two days. We cannot fight on half rations. It rained about as hard as I ever saw it in the afternoon, and I found my little camp stool a great thing

Monday, May 16, 1864.

We dug new "pits" last Ev^g C^o "G" leading the way; the new "pits" run horizontal to the old ones, so as to protect the hill and the men from a flank movement and a cross fire from the "Johnnies". Our rations consist of from 8 to 10 hard tack to each man per day & 4 spoonfuls each of coffee & sugar. We draw no salt beef, no beans, no any thing else, but a little fresh beef once or twice a week, and very little at that. The men have not enough to eat, and are always hungry. We don't have any pork to eat, nor any bacon. We have drawn 6 days rations of hard tack and one days rations of beef. A fight is expected shortly

Tuesday, May 17, 1864.

I went over to the old 22^d yesterday afternoon and saw Col. W. S. Felton, Major Burt, L^t Clapp, Sergeant Haskell, Corp Bacon &c. I eat supper with C^o "D" and had a pleasant time. I was on duty 'till 12 O'clock last night and then I turned in but was routed up at ½ past 3 O'clock as an attack was expected, but it amounted to nothing. The enemy was so near us we could hear them talk and cough, and their band played. I had my hair cropped by "Crocker" of Woburn. I wrote a letter home to day. My two boys ran away last Sunday. We are still in the pits

Wednesday, May 18, 1864.

I slept in my tent all night and was routed out about 4 O'clock this morning. "The Ball" opened at ½ after 4 in good earnest. The cannonade was heavy and incessant for about 3 hours. We lay close inside of our breastworks, and were covered with dirt once in a while Lee is completely surrounded and will have to fight his way out. After about an hours interval the firing began again and continued all through the day. We had two or three men wounded. A number of shells struck and went through C^o "G's" works but did not burst. The enemy have retired & the 2^d Corps charg'd and carried the first line of rifle pits on the right

Thursday, May 19, 1864.

We bid good by to the rifle pits that had protected us from the "Rebel fire" so effectually at 3 O'clock P.M. and marched about 5 miles and halted for breakfast on a fine large farm. Cherry trees pear and peach promise a good crop. We started at 8 O'clock A.M. and marched across fields through woods over young corn &c about a mile or more and formed Brigade line of battle in an open field. Troops are continually pouring in and the whole 9^th Corps will soon be here. A fight is expected. We made breastworks of stout stakes about 3 feet apart and filled in with dirt & rails, then banked up.

Friday, May 20, 1864.

The sun arose this morning red. The 7^th Maine Battery came here last night about 1 O'clock and took position in rear of our C^o's works. About 11 O'clock A.M. we were ordered to fall in and marched in line of battle right into the woods. We made a good line rough as it was with underbrush. It was to feel the enemys position. We lay in the woods 'till 5 O'clock P.M. when we were marched back inside of our works. Corp B. A. Merrill of our C^o who was wounded at the last fight has since died. We call ourselves the "shovel Brigade" as we no sooner get pits dug than we have to leave them for others to occupy.

Saturday, May 21, 1864.

The day has been very pleasant, warm but a good breeze stirring. No disturbances in camp last night. Made out a Consolidated morning report from the 1^st to the 10^th of May and from the 10^th to the 20^th a summary of all the killed wounded and missing and giving the number of men present for duty. We left our works at 5 O'clock P.M. and it rained enough to make the roads muddy. We made a forced march of 5 miles and about 8 O'clk turned in on the ground to sleep. The men were tired and worn out.

Sunday, May 22, 1864.

We were ordered to fall in at 11 O'clock P.M. and started on our onward march and travelled the road the whole time. We marched near 5 miles, and by the light of the moon. It was a hard march and we went at the rate of 3 miles an hour. At 5 O'clock A.M. we crossed the track of the Rich^d and Fredericksburg R.R. and at ½ after 6 we camped on a hill for breakfast. We are on the road to Port Royal and have been going about SE the last part of the time. We started at 10 O'clk and arr. at Bowling Green at noon. Started 1 O'clk and at ½ after 4 P.M. we stacked arms in a large corn field. We passed Guinea station on the Rich^d Fred^g R.R. at ½ after 7 O'clk. We marched to day under a blazing sun. In all since yes^y 30 m.

Monday, May 23, 1864.

Attention was sounded this morning at ½ after 6 O'clock and at ¼ before 7 we were again on the move. The roads were very sandy; a good many of the men were foot sore & all were "leg weary". We stacked arms in a field at ½ after 2 O'clock, cooked our coffee and eat our dinner. A midday march in the hot sun and the men worn out. About 5 P.M., we pass'd the 1^st Mass. Cav^y and I went to see if I could find Cap. C. F. Adams. I found him asleep under a tree. I could only say a few words and exchange courtesies. At 6 O'clk we heard heavy firing in the direction of Richmond.

Tuesday, May 24, 1864.

We bunked in the woods all night, and had a good rest. About 9 O'clock AM May 23 [faded] of the 16^th Mass C^o "F" invited me to partake of some chicken broth and gave me a lot of hard tack. Our "hard tack" all out. The 2^d Corps captured a rebel battery yesterday. Cap. Adams asked after Mother, but I had to tell him that I had received no mail since I had been out. We fell in at ½ past 12M. and forded the North Anna river between 1 and 2 O'clk. We went into a fight at 3 O'clk. I write on the field while our men have "ceased firing". It is now 6 O'clk and a thunder storm is brewing. We crossed the river in water near leg deep the current [faded]

Wednesday, May 25, 1864.

We waited yesterday P.M. for reinforcements and they did not come but the thunder storm did and soaked us all through. At ½ past 6 P.M. the 4^th & 10^th Reg^ts and the 56^th Mass broke & fled, & the 59^th had to go also. It was a great shame & our Brig^r Ledwell [faded] Jack. Our Reg^t last night had 9 killed 30 wounded & 99 missing Our C^o had 3 wounded & 20 missing but the missing of one C^o are coming in this morning. We slept in the woods all night on the banks of the North Anna. Kennedy, one of my men who was wounded yesterday in the leg below the knee, had amputation performed to day. Geo. H. Smith another of my C^o was wounded in the left elbow and has lost his arm. We have 3 wounded and 1 missing. He was tired out and could go no further and was probably taken prisoner.

Thursday, May 26, 1864.

Corp. Severance and I pitched my tent yesterday P.M. and my boy Scott slept with us. It sprinkled a little while we were getting the tent in order. "It never rains but it pours" in this detestable state of Va. It began to pour this A.M. about ½ past 6 O'clk and kept it up for 2 hours. Severance and I scrouched all up in a heap in the middle of the tent and let it rain. We made out to keep pretty dry. The sun came out before noon and it was quite pleasant but at 6 O'clk it came on to rain again in good earnest. At ½ after 3 O'clk P.M. 4 gall. of whiskey were procured for the officers. I ration'd mine to my C^o. We were ordered to "pack up" 3 hours ago to go in 5 min. but we have not gone yet and it is now ¼ to 6 o'clock

Friday, May 27, 1864.

We did not get away yesterday 'till ¼ to 7 O'clk as it came on to rain. When the shower was over we fell in and recrossed the North Anna on a floating bridge. We camped on a hill in an open field, and lay down to rest. Attention sounded at ½ past 2 A.M. and we marched about 2 miles to Jericho Ford which we guarded. We reached here at 4 O'clk A.M. just able to drag one foot after the other. We are still on the banks of the North Anna. We left at 9 O'clk A.M. & halted at 11. I was tuckered out. Met D^r Gilfillan our 1^st Ass^t Surg who was completely worn out with work & marching. I staid with him & we both got into an ambulance of the 1^st Div 9^th Corps Hospital and rode.

Saturday, May 28, 1864.

The D^r and I and one other sick man of the 3^d Div 9^th Corps had a pleasant ride yesterday, a pleasant driver & good hard roads. We stopped to rest the team about 10 O'clk P.M. and at 2 O'clk we halted and went to bed. This A.M. we started at 7 O'clk and followed the other wagons on the road to the "Pamunkey" & the "White House" landing. At ½ 12 O'clock P.M. we stopped for to rest the team and eat our dinner: fried tack & fresh beef & coffee. We started at ¼ past 2 O'clk & crossed the river Pamunkey on a pontoon bridge at ½ past 2 & parked with the hospital wagons of the 6^th Corps & in the rear, having got on to the wrong road. We shall wait here till the other trains have crossed the river. We are 15 m. from White House.

Sunday, May 29, 1864.

I went to L^t Gen^l Grant's Head Quarters to ascertain about the 9^th Corps were to be found. I was told that if we went about a mile on another road towards the White House and waited by a pontoon that in a short time we should join the ambulances of our Div. We were lucky enough to do so and parked in a large field all the night. I found 1^st Serg^t Farr and the rest of my C^o who are guarding the Hospital wagons. The D^r has left for the Reg^t. I went shortly after I had eaten my break^t but found it gone and came back to the ambulances. I asked the U.S.C. Com^y for a little pork for my supper last Ev^g and they would not let me have any the men had only enough for their own supper

Monday, May 30, 1864.

The U.S.C. Com^y is a contemptible concern. 8 men with each wagon, live high, howl psalm tunes on Sunday & when I was tired & spent, worn and hungry, did not know where to get any meat, asked them if they would sell or give me pork enough for a meal, said that they had no more than they wanted for their own use & only have enough to last them 'till the next night, and did not know where they should get any more. I was disgusted with the whole thing and gave the head man a piece of my mind. They stuff & cram, and turned me "empty away". I bid good by to my friend the "Driver" and left the ambulance to join my Reg^t. I got to my command about 10 O'clk and started shortly after.

Tuesday, May 31, 1864.

We marched about 2 m. to the front and 'camp'd for the night in the woods, after building more breastworks. We "fell in" this forenoon about ½ after 8 O'clk and started onward. We met the Rebel sharpshooters, and after being under a sharp fire for ½ an hour, we "faced by the rear rank" and retreated in good order after having two men wounded in the Reg^t. We got back to our camp at ¼ past 11. Corp^l Willett of "K" C^o 59^th was mortally wounded in the lungs. Our Major Jos^h Colburn had his horse wounded. We started to the front again about ½ past 2 O'clk and were under fire 'till ½ past 6, when we were outflanked, and fell back again

Wednesday, June 1, 1864.

We staid in our old "pits" all night. The day has been hotter than ever L^t Clapp of C^o "D" 22^d Mass Vet came to see me this forenoon. He had read the report that I had been badly wounded by being shot through the head. I went to see the boys of the 22^d. Only 112 left old members and recruits. Only 5 left in my old C^o "D". I hired a black man to day who had been a servant to L. F. Clapp 13 per mo and find himself. Gen^ls Mead and Grant with their body guard rode by here to day. I hailed Cap. Adams as he rode by. I was sitting on a log having my boots greased. My new man is named Geo. Mattis. At ¼ to 6 we are still in our pits, while heavy firing is going on in our front. We may leave at any time.

Thursday, June 2, 1864.

The ball opened yesterday in good earnest at ½ past 6 P.M. and continued 'till 8. The "Rebs" tried to get over our works at 3 different points, but were driven back every time with great slaughter. It was a big fight. We are only 4 miles from our old camp and battle ground at Gaines Hill. We are still behind our old pits at ½ past 6 AM Our army is advancing slow and sure towards Rich^d, entrenching as we go and fighting every inch of the way. Grant is playing his Vicksburg game and is cleaning the Johnnies out with "shovel and pick". We left here at ¼ past 2 P.M. and went about 2 m. when we were attacked in the rear by a large force of Rebs comprised of A. P. Hills Corps and one other. after holding our position for two hours, we fell back behind new pits

Friday, June 3, 1864.

Our pickets were driven in after we left our works yesterday, and one of our C^o "Fogarty", one of them is missing: perhaps he is a prisoner. We fought with artillery 'till last night at 8 O'clk, when the firing ceased. The "ball" opened this A.M. At ½ 5 and the Rebs had "shells" and "grape" for breakfast instead of coffee and grape juice. After travelling out & back for nothing twice, we made a start with a vengeance and ran right into the Enemies fire while marching by the flank at ½ after 12 P.M. we were opened upon with "grape" in an open field and two men wounded in the C^o in front of C^o "G" & one in the C^o behind. No one hurt in C^o "G". We started at ½ past 1 and got back at the same place at ¼ past 3 P.M.

Saturday, June 4, 1864.

At ¼ after 4 yesterday P.M. just an hour after we got back were marched away again and took up a position in a pine wood. our Adj^t Warren was wounded yesterday in the leg by a spent ball. We are in the woods still this morning without any sleep and with nothing to eat. We ought to have drawn rations of hard bread pork &c yesterday, but we did not get any thing but fresh beef, Knocked in the head in the morning & boiled or fried for dinner while it was warm. I am hungry & faint, but at ½ past 2 P.M. we were ordered to "fall in" and marched about 4 miles and joined the 5^th Corps. I had 4 hard tack given me by one of the 100^th PV. The Rebs have decamp'd this A.M. early and we are on the road to Richmond after them

Sunday, June 5, 1864.

We were allowed to pitch our tents and stay here all night. I feel better after a good nights rest. The Rebs have opened upon us with a 200 gun battery but as we are in a hollow we dont mind it. Our rations have not come at 5 O'clk this AM and I have sent my boy to buy 6 pounds. We drew 35 tack for 4 days rations 5 spoonfuls sugar 6 do coffee all to last 4 days. I paid W^m Scott off to day he is going home to Mass. tomorrow. Our beloved Col. came back to us to day & says he shall take command of the Reg^t. tomorrow. Whiskey was drawn to day for the Officers. I divided my canteen full with my non Coms Sent for whiskey & it had not come. We fell in at 5 P.M. & marched 2 miles and threw up works. Finished them near 12 O'clk at night & turned in for the night. Heavy firing in the evening

Monday, June 6, 1864.

We were not disturbed last night and I had a good sleep. We are stopping in an orchard of apple trees in as pretty a place as we have ever been in. My boy Geo. boiled out my drawers and shirts to day, and I had a good wash all over and feel gay & festive. The rascals commenced to shell us at 4 O'clk P.M. their usual hour. We have worked well and have good strong breast works and traverses. I don't care for the shells, as we are covered by works. Our Brig. Gen^l Ledwell was heard to say that we were to have four days rest here and our rations whiskey and vegetables. I hope it is so as the men need rest. I was invited to supper with C^o H to eat "flap Jacks" and broiled steak, tea & coffee

Tuesday, June 7, 1864.

My boy W^m Scott leaves here for home this A.M. He will call and see my folks. I had a comfortable night under an apple tree, and awoke in the AM much refreshed. The Rebs are quiet. Our four days rest and the "et cet e ras" play'd out rather sudden. At 2 O'clk we fell in and marched about four miles and halted in heavy oak and pine woods, and threw up breast works. We are 13 m. from Richmond and not far from Coal Harbor. I signed an order on the Brigade Com^r for some beans and was lucky enough to get 7 qts and I had them stewed for the C^o and they had a good dinner at 10 O'clk for 5¢ a piece. It was just the thing to march on. I signed for & got a canteen of whiskey, which I divided among my non Coms.

Wednesday, June 8, 1864.

We passed a quiet night only being turned out once at ½ past 2 as our pickets were firing. I was under my blankets again soon. Our men shot two pigs yesterday, and we had a pork stew for breakfast. How are you stew? The report is that Richmond is to be bombarded, and that there are only two roads on which the Reb Cav^y can advance to capture our supply trains. The 56^th 57^th & 58^th Mass. are guarding one road and the 4^th 10^th Regs & the 59^th are to guard this one. So be it. Lee has asked Grant for 90 days to remove his women & Grant told Lee he would give him 10 m after he got an answer to decide, and after that he must move his women and children out of Rich.

Thursday, June 9, 1864.

We were routed up last night at ½ past 10 o'clk by the picket firing and as the white tents made good marks, I "struck" mine and rolled it up, also my blankets. I was up 'till 3 O'clk when I unrolled my blankets & turned in. I pitched tent again. We had beef soup for dinner and it was not to be "sneezed at". But C^o "H" sent me a dipper of theirs which rather knock'd ours it being composed of sweet potatoes, onions, and Irish potatoes & I sent compliments back, and a clean dipper by my black servant. Fort Darling according to report has been undermined and by a successful assault is in our hands. If so Rich^d will soon be ours and this long campaign ended.

Friday, June 10, 1864.

Every thing was lovely last night and I laid in my tent 'till morning. My friend Stevens sent me a plate of baked beans for my breakfast and they were tall. We had our first decent mail to day. I had five—3 from Edward date May 3^d, 19^th, 21^st. One from Ellen enclosed in Edwards, and one from Thomas date May 27^th. I had one from the recruiting agent Ward 8 about some men. It is very pleasant to hear from home and to know that our friends know that you are safe. We had a regimental inspection by Cos to day for the first time. A canteen of whiskey was imbibed by me and my non Coms. to day.

Saturday, June 11, 1864.

We were ordered to "pack up" and be ready to move yesterday; so I had to strike my tent, fold it up, and roll up my blankets. Firing was heard in the direction of the pickets, and on making investigations, it was found that some of the pickets had been amusing themselves shooting hogs. They were brought in under arrest, and all was quiet again. I pitched my tent, went to bed, and was not disturbed 'till morning. I wrote a long letter of 12 pages to Ellen to day. "34 Summer St" heard from me about the 21^st of May, through a little boy, who came there to beg a breakfast. He was formerly with the 59^th Regt Co "B" and his name was Johnny M^cDonald of Lynn Mass.

Sunday, June 12, 1864.

Last night orders came to all Co. Commanders to have every man of each Co. that was not able to march to day report to the D^r and be sent to the rear. There were none in Co "G". When we march we are going to Harrisons Landing. I passed a quiet night and there are no signs of our going from here up to this, ½ after 7 O'clock A.M. Our Col. J. P. Gould has been commissioned a Brig. Gen^l and our Adj^t H. W. Warren has rec^d his Comⁿ as Capⁿ on his staff. We had a Company inspection at 9 O'clk The 4^th & 10^th Regs. went off to day to join the 5^th Corps and Cos "G" "K" & C have taken their place. We fell in at ½ past 7 PM and started for an all night march.

Monday, June 13, 1864.

Last night I marched 'till ½ past 11 and came across Henry Wade. I was tired, and we both rested by a fire made some coffee, and trudged along. About 1 O'clk we came to a magnificent sycamore tree where there was a good fire, and a picket of the 14^th N.Y. Vet. We spread our blanket & tents & turned in for the rest of the night. In the morning we made coffee and eat our "tack", and at ½ past 5 started to find the Reg^t. Wade owned all the grub and the woolen blanket. found the Regt 10 O'clk. They had been there about 4 hrs within 2½ miles of the White House. started at ¼ after 1 & marched 'till 3 rested an hour and started at 4 stopp'd for supper at ¼ of 6. We made a start at 8 P.M. and after a number of false starts we got away at ½ past 10 and camp'd in a corn field at ½ past 12 beat out

Tuesday, June 14, 1864.

We were called up and got our breakfast at ½ past 3. The men had no sleep the night before last marching all night long, and the last picket have been without sleep for two nights 'till last night. no meat for breakfast this AM and half rations of hard bread. We left at ½ past 6 and reached "Fords Mills" at 8 rested 2 min. and then [?] ahead crossing the Chickahominy at ½ 8 and stacked arms in a large field at 9 to wait for beef to be killed for the Brigade. We left at 12M and marched to within 3 m of Cha^s City C.H. when we stacked arms for a rest. We crossed the Chickahominy at Long Bridge. We left our resting place at ½ 6 and reached Charles City C.H. at 8 where we camped for the night out of rations no supper

Wednesday, June 15, 1864.

A beautiful morning. Turned out at ½ 4 O'clk. No breakfast but some fresh beef, which I could not eat alone, so I had no breakfast. The country is fine. Gun boats on the James River have been seen steaming up the river towards Harrisons Landing, which is 8 miles above here. We drew 4 days rations of hard bread, sugar & coffee. For dinner I ate an ear of corn on the cob raw. I ate a good supper of hard bread and hot coffee. I got a sight of a gun boat and the whistle made me think of home. The country about here is fine and the crops look well. I have seen corn breast high. We are under orders to march at 7 O'clk

Thursday, June 16, 1864.

"A big thing on ice". Another unreasonable forced march. We started last night at ½ past 9. we reached the James R at 12, crossed over on a pontoon bridge at ¼ to 1 and marched all night long without any sleep and halted 1 hour for breakfast at ¼ past 8 I came in to breakfast the only one of my Co but two or three came straggling along at interval. We started at a 2.4 pace at ¼ past 10 and marched 'till 6 on the road to Petersburg. We formed a line of battle in the woods and the "ball" opened at ½ past 6. The firing was heavy and the Rebs ran. A number of the men were sun struck and all are completely used up. I stacked four guns in the Co

Friday, June 17, 1864.

We lay in position 'till morning & at 4 AM the "ball" commenced. We marched in line of battle through underbrush & woods and formed behind earth works in an open field We are before Petersburg and about 2 m from it. As I was sitting on the ground by the side of L^t Col. Hodge a piece of a shell struck between us, and went into my canteen. I took no notice of it except that it ruined my nice canteen. I have the shell in my pocket & mean to keep it. We left our works at 3 PM and marched in line of battle & waited under the cover of a hill to prepare for a charge. We made the charge at 7 & took the first line of the Rebel pits. We lost a good many men. Our Major Colburn was badly wounded.

Saturday, June 18, 1864.

The rebs retook their pits after hard fighting, but they are ours again this P.M. and the Johnnies have left this morning and gone to their rear. The ground is covered with our dead as we had to advance across an open field with a battery of 7 guns playing upon us with grape & shot & shell. We took quite a number of prisoners and a number of guns. I wrote a letter home to day to let my Mother and the rest know that I am not wounded. Cap. Adams rode over from Gen^l Meads Head Quarters to find out how I was. We drew rations of hard bread, coffee, sugar and pork, also a few dried apples 4 days rations. We shall live high

Sunday, June 19, 1864.

I was not troubled during the night, but slept sound on the boards of a cracker box covered over with an old coat I had my rubber blanket ~~over~~ under me. Co "G" and "D" have been consolidated, and I am in command of both Companies. We moved from the dusty old corn field into an oat field which was well trodden down My blankets I have not seen them since we ended our big march Col. Hodges kindly took them off of my back & carried them on his horse's back in front of him till we halted for breakfast. I carried them all night I then had them put on one of Cap Wrights 14^th Battery wagons and I have not seen them since. I found a rubber blanket.

Monday, June 20, 1864.

Corp. Seaverns came to the Regt yesterday P.M. with my tent. He was left behind when we began our long march. I pitched tent and slept all night in an over coat. Heavy firing in front about 10 last night of musketry, mortar and heavy cannons. No signs of a move this A.M. at 5 O'clock We had a Brigade Inspection at 12. I had enough skedaddlers come back to the Co. to relieve me of the Com^d of Co D & G & let me take Com^d of my own Co. I can now number for rations 30 men. The Regt drew one days rations of whiskey, and I had my canteen filled at the Brigade Com^y for 75¢ 3 pts. We moved from here to the front, within 400 yds of the Rebels, into rifle pits & relieved Gen^l Barlows Brigade. I slept on the ground.

Tuesday, June 21, 1864.

I rested well, and awoke this A.M. bright & early. Our cooks brought us some boiled potatoes and beef. We drew one days rations yester^y of hard bread, sugar, coffee, beans, dried apples & potatoes. The bullets of the scamps whistle about us in all directions; one of our Co. who was on picket, Moses M Fuller was wounded in the head, and has gone to the rear. We lay here all day in the front of the whole line of works exposed to a constant fire from the Reb sharp shooters. It is "dangerous to be safe". I have to keep in a reclining position all the time We drew our rations of whiskey to day. Geo. found a horse to tote our traps on. I bought a canteen of whiskey. I had a dipper of vegetable soup from the L^t Col's table. It was very good.

Wednesday, June 22, 1864.

I awoke this A.M. amid the sweet singing of innumerable birds & the crashing of bullets among the trees over our heads. A curious mixture of my sweet, happy, dear country life at home & the miserable, hungry, dirty soldier's life in the army. Selah

Our Co. drew clothing to day shoes, blouses, drawers, stockings, haversacks, rubber blankets, canteens & shelter tents. I got a shelter tent. The firing is pretty sharp to day. I am very dirty, no chance to wash. I have not had water near me for two days. I found out where the 14^th Mass Battery was situated and sent Rob^t Hume for my blankets and he was lucky enough to find them. I have wash'd face & hands

Thursday, June 23, 1864.

We cut down a tree and placed a log on the top of the breast work and raised it up so as to fire under without showing the head I turned in for the night; but was not allowed much sleep. The Rebs tried the strength of our pickets and the cannonade was tremendous. We were too strong for them One of the 57^th Mass while writing in his "diary" and lying in his place in the pit was killed by a ball striking the top log of the breast work and glancing down struck him in the head. There was a man wounded in the 21 Mass on our left, also in the pit. The balls have flown about pretty lively to day. The 6^th Corps have made six charges to day but have been unsuccessful every time it is a report.

Friday, June 24, 1864.

About 9 last night the Rebs made a charge on our pickets line, but were received by such a salvo of artillery, that they had to make back tracks pretty sudden. At 12 AM we were relieved by Potters Brigade and went into the entrenchments in our rear. We turned in about ½ past 2 O'clock. The day has been very hot and dry. We have had no sign of rain for a fortnight and the springs are getting low. We are not quite so much exposed here as we were in the front works, but the noise and racket are about the same. Once in a while a stray shot comes over and a little too near. We have strong traverses built of logs and dirt.

Saturday, June 25, 1864.

We pack'd up last night, all ready for a start if called upon. We were not interfered with in our sleep and morning dawned and found us still here Cha^s Peterson, one of my Co. was shot through the arm while on picket. The ball entered the right elbow and went through. We draw our regular rations of whiskey right straight along. We drew two days rations of hard bread and one of soft, the day before yesterday. I cannot say that I prefer the soft. I exchanged some of my brick loaf for an equal quantity of hard bread. My army valise came along to day for a short time and I made a change

Sunday, June 26, 1864.

About 9 last night the "Johns" made a "splurge" and the way that our batteries opened on them was a caution to strangers. The Heavens were aglow with the flash of the guns, and the trenches were lined with troops eager to add the flash of their muskets to the roar of the artillery The "Johnnies" caved in. The rolls for "mustering" for pay were given to each Co. Commander to day to make out. I made out my Corp^s & Serg^ts warrants and went to the Hosp^l to see Sergt Farr about making out the roll. Not having the original "master roll" nothing could be done about it. I had a gay time with the guard at the Hosp and drank punch and turned in with Sergt Farr

Monday, June 27, 1864.

I slept as sound as a top and got up with a rousing appetite for a good breakfast of fried hard tack and pickled cabbage. Sergt Farr & I started about an hour after breakfast to see Col Gould about those rolls, which are on the boat at City Point. We also went to the camp of the 59^th Col Gould had sent for the necessary papers and said that they would be ready by Ev^g. So Farr and I thought it better to go back to the Hospital and let my man Geo. bring the papers down to us when they came. I turned in the second time with the Sergt. We had some more punch and I really think the rest is doing me good. I had a letter to day from Sister E.

Tuesday, June 28, 1864.

I passed a very comfortable night and at 4 O'clock was up writing yesterday even^g. It was quite cool in the night and it is cloudy and cool this morning George will be along with those documents some time this morning Geo. gave me a good scrubbing with a wet towel and soap all over and then boiled out my shirts and drawers. I feel clean & fresh Yesterday was the anniversary of the Battle of Gaines Mills where I was wounded and taken prisoner. Geo. came to the Hospital this PM but the papers had not arrived. Sergt Vaughn sent over after his roll book, and as I shall need it to make out the "Muster roll" I took the names I wanted from it and sent it back to him. I slept with Serg^t Farr Punch

Wednesday, June 29, 1864.

My sleep was refreshing and my appetite unbounded. It is very quiet here to what it is in the front. We hear a little noise of the cannon but no whistling of bullets and no danger of being hit. I don't feel right in being away from my Co and Regt so long, but I must have those original muster rolls before I can make out the present one and there are no conveniences in camp for writing. The rolls came about 7 and I began upon them right away Before I had gone far, 3 more rolls were sent to me & I had to write 'till ½ past 10 at night. The L^t Col made a fuss about my being to the rear: as if I had been away ½ as much as some other "poppy cock" officers. I have endeavored to do my duty. The L^t Col. send down twice for me, the last man being my nigger

Thursday, June 30, 1864.

I staid over night with Serg^t Farr and started early in the A.M. for the front, our Regt having relieved the one in the front pits. Just where we were before. Col. Hodges talked pretty hard to me: harder than I deserved. I have always tried to do my best, and what good does it do. The ones that buzz around H^d Qrs and drink with them and are fishing for an app^t are always the first to get one; after being to the rear time & again & dodging fights. I have been in every fight with my Co. and have never before been to the rear except with D^r Gilfillan our Surgeon from May 27 to May 30^th and then on an ambulance. Oh! for Col. Gould back again to the Regt. So mote it be.

Friday, July 1, 1864.

I found my Regt yesterday in their old place in the front pits, having relieved the same Brigade that relieved us on the 24^th June. The cannonade last night was the heaviest of the lot since we have been here and lasted nearly all night. The rebs opened a battery which set ours going and we had a sweet time of it if not a sweet sleep. The day has been extremely hot and the men suffer very much in the close pits where there is no wind; And we have to keep low so as not to get hit. I had a letter on June 27 from Bro Thomas Mother is failing. I fear she cannot be with us much longer. An order came from H^d Qrs to dig the standing place in the pits wide enough for two men to fire at a time always dig dig dig, no rest but in death, it is ever at the door

Saturday, July 2, 1864.

I turned in in good season, for I was well aware from past experience that my sleep would be disturbed by the whizzing of shot and shell. And I was right, for when our pickets were relieved the Johnnies opened on them and our batteries returned their fire in earnest. Two or three balls struck close to me as I was lying on the ground and the dirt flew about some. The rebs can be plainly seen throwing up dirt and seem to be making a redoubt for a battery Fun may be expected at any time now. Our Corps has been doing nothing but keeping quiet behind breastworks, and may not be called upon to mingle in the general melee about to take place

Sunday, July 3, 1864.

We were relieved last night from our perilous position in the front breastworks and retired to our old place in the rear. I had a good night's rest. I am Officer of the day to day, and oversaw the policing of the camp after breakfast. We drew 5 cans of tomatoes yesterday for Co "G" and there was a can of the same for each Officer to day. I received a letter from Bro Edw^d yesterday, dated last Sunday. He says that Mother was on the mending hand. We drew our rations of whiskey this Ev^g for tomorrow, also soft bread sugar and coffee. The tomatoes were given by the U.S. Sanitary Commission

Monday, July 4, 1864.

"The day we celebrate", and what a celebration! A swallow or two of whiskey, and shoveling in the trenches in the morning by 4 o'clock. It was expected that all our batteries would open at once upon the devoted City, but our expectations were not realized. We sent for some flour, dried apples and sugar, and were going to have a "duff" to celebrate the day with, but there being no flour to be had, ginger cakes and cheese were bought instead out of the "Co fund". We drew extra rations of whiskey, and were all of us pretty jolly, especially H^d Qrs who were blind drunk and did not know what they said or did

Tuesday, July 5, 1864.

As the big bombardment did not come off on the night of the 4^th as was anticipated, it was thought by all to be sure and do it last night. Disappointed again. What is "Grant" about? No one can tell. The men are dying daily, more by disease than by the bullet, and every day I grow weaker and weaker. If this campaign does not end soon, I shall have to give up sick The cannonade keeps going on and the men ~~are~~ without being able to fire a gun are shot down like dogs by the reb sharpshooters. All sorts of stories are floating about, regarding the occupation of the rail roads by our troops. I hope it is so but I fear not

Wednesday, July 6, 1864.

Last eve^g we were ordered to "pack up" just as I was getting ready to go to sleep, and about 9 o'clock we started for our old place in the front trenches and this morning here we are for four days or more—and must make up our minds to be shot at for a "target". I don't see as we are "any thing else" as we cannot return their fire, as it is against orders. Not feeling able to do my duty with the Regt. I asked the Surgeon for a sick pass to go to the rear for a little rest. Serg^t Jenks of Co "D" rec^d his appointment this A.M. as a 2^d L^t and he is placed in Command of my Co. I left for the Hosp^l and am located once more with Sergeant Farr.

Thursday, July 7, 1864.

I had a first rate sleep in Sergt Farr's tent free from all the noise of bursting shell and singing bullets. I feel much refreshed this morning, 'though I am very weak. My appetite seems to hold out pretty well, and as long as that lasts I shall be all right. I reported to D^r Snow this morning and had my name entered on the Hosp^l book as having the "Fever Malarial", and was shown the Officers "ward". There are two Lts besides myself and I take my "tonic" every three hours of whiskey and quinine. One man is in our Ward who was shot in the leg while riding from City Point to this place. The gun was fired by some straggler in the rear. He has had to lose his leg.

Friday, July 8, 1864.

I slept a part of the night but there was one nurse up all the time in our tent and a candle was kept burning all night, and the unusual light shining in my face prevented me from sleeping. It has been very warm to day, and iced lemonade does not go bad. I am weak yet but my diarrhea seems to be checked. I feel as if my old complaint was coming on again, dyspepsia. My boy George came here to day to take care of me. Every thing is quiet at the front. The Johnnies made a charge upon our right and left to day, but were repulsed and our men followed them up and occupied their works

Saturday, July 9, 1864.

I slept sound last night, and at 4 O'clock this morning I took a large bucket and went down to the spring and Geo. washed me all over and took my shirts and drawers to boil out. I feel clean and sweet. It is cloudy and quite cool this morning. D^r Gilfillan our Surgeon was wounded last Ev^g while being relieved from the front. He is at present in our tent. He was shot through the thigh by a sharpshooter. I got a letter from Bro Edw^d to day dated the 5^th of July containing the intelligence of the death of our dear Mother. She died that morning at 5 O'clock. I sent word to Cap. Adams of the event. Our Regt. was relieved from the front to day and have gone into camp for rest

Sunday, July 10, 1864.

I had a refreshing sleep, and was awake bright and early. A large number of sick and wounded went from here this AM to City Point. Among the latter was our 2^d Asst. Surgeon D^r Thomas Gilfillan. Lieu^t Craven and Lieu^t Finch are at present with me at the Hosp^l of the 100^th Pa. Vol. and 179^th N.Y. Vol. L^t Finch and I sent a request to the Christian Com. for some cann'd meat but not going to D^r Luddington first and asking for it through him. we did not get any for the D^r took it for his own use and came to our tent to tell us so. He is very jealous of his prerogative. A very hot and close day.

Monday, July 11, 1864.

Some signs of rain, but as all signs fail in a dry time, I despair of getting any as there has none fallen to speak of since June 2^d when we were attacked in our rear by the "Johnny Rebs" and it poured right earnestly then. The springs are getting low and the earth is all parched up The heat in the middle of the day is intolerable The soldiers in the rifle pits are sickening every day. It began to thunder towards the latter part of the day and the lightning was very fine. We got a little shower but not enough to lay the dust. There is nothing new at the front.

Tuesday, July 12, 1864.

I found the night some cooler for the little rain that fell and I had a good rest. I am still weak, but my appetite is still "A-No 1" and if I could only get more strengthening food I think that I could be able to leave the Hosp^l some days sooner. The wind began to rise the clouds began to gather and the rattle of the thunder admonished us that we had better see to the fastenings of our tent. We had no rain however and the wind soon went down. Gen^l Meade has removed his Head Quarters from the front and his white tents are now in sight of this Hospital. It is strange that Captain Adams has not been to see me yet after I sent for him to come

Wednesday, July 13, 1864.

A cool night for sleep, but it bids fair this morning to be another oven like day. I fell pretty bright this morning; my diarrhea is about done for, and I hope that it will not come back. I went over to Maj Gen^l Meads Head Quarters this P.M. to see Capt. Adams, but he had gone to City Point sick. I found L^t Col. T. Lyman, who received me very kindly and gave me a can of turkey and one of chicken, and something to drink on the spot and a small flask full to take back with me. I went over to the Head Quarters of Col. Gould to see about getting a leave of absence but did not make it work. I rec^d a note from Capt. Adams telling me to get to "City Point" & see him & he thought he could get me home

Thursday, July 14, 1864.

A very warm and sultry night. I had a good sleep, but dreamed. Capt. Adams is with Dr Dalton at City Point. I am going to try to get a permit from Dr. Ludington the head Surgeon at this Hosp^l to go to the Hosp^l at City Point. I went to Dr Hogan for a permit to go to City Point he being head Surgeon of the Division, but he would not give me one. I wrote a note to Cap Adams, informing him of the fact. I wrote a long letter to Sister Ellen to day, in answer to one I received from her yesterday. I walked over to Col. Goulds Head Quarters this morning to try and get him to send me home on special business connected with the pay for the men I got for him. no go.

Friday, July 15, 1864.

It was very cool last night and a good night for sleep, which I profited by. There is no telling when I shall be discharged from this Hosp^l and go back to my Regt. I cannot get a leave of absence unless Cap Adams can do something for me when he gets my note. I think it is a shame to keep me here when I can go home as well as not and probably not be gone any longer than the time taken to stay here. I have not felt so well this afternoon as usual my head has ached all the time and I feel kind of sick I wrote a letter to Bro. Thomas to day and sent for a box and some money. Two soldiers were hung yesterday for committing a rape: one of them had his discharge in his pocket

Saturday, July 16, 1864.

It was a cool night last night, but my head ached all night long and I had to get the nurse to put a wet towel on my head. It is quite chilly early in the morning. Everything is still at the front. We hear very little firing Preparations are making however which look like "fight", i.e. leveling all the forts and breastworks, which means that if we have to retreat the Rebels will find no banks of logs and dirt to fight behind and we can rally and fight them on open ground. Geo. washed my pants and I have worn my drawers all day instead. I signed my "Muster rolls". Adjt H. M Warren brought them over to me

Sunday, July 17, 1864.

A good night for "tired nature's sweet restorer". My head aches this morning but I am in hopes it will go off. The Johnnies threw a few shells over here yesterday Ev^g but quiet reigned in the night. There are with me in the Hosp^l tent eight Officers; two Caps. and six Lts. One Cap & two Lts. 56^th Mass. One Cap 3^d Md. three Lts 14^th H^y A^y and one Lt 100^th Pa. Only two wounded out of the nine. the rest are sick and played out. When I was at the spring washing this morning Dr. Ludington came around and took the names of all in our tent. They have gone to the Point, leaving two here Lt Buskirk of the 14^th "Heavy" and myself. Two more Officers came in this P.M., one cap. 100^th Pen. & a Lt. 14^th Ar^y wounded

Monday, July 18, 1864.

The dew was so heavy that when I awoke this morning at 4 O'clock I actually thought it was raining. Cap. Adams came to see me yesterday P.M. He lent me $10 and sent me over a can of peaches. I go to the San^y instead of the Chrisⁿ Comⁿ. I get all I want. I expect in a day or two to go to City Point. A fight is expected and room is to be made here for the sick and wounded expected to come in pretty fast. Cap. Adams called to see me this P.M. I sent ½ lb smoking and two hands chewing tobacco to the Co. from the San^y. We are to have bunks in our tent instead of lying on the ground.

Tuesday, July 19, 1864.

We had a fine shower in the night, and our bunks which were built yesterday and put into our tent, worked to a charm. We confiscated a lot of reb. lumber and the men are at work getting the tents ready for rain, which must shortly come in abundance. The ground is boarded over about six in. so the men need not lie on the ground. It was showery all day and the ground is getting soaked nicely. We had a fine dinner of roast chicken (can) do mutton tomatoes cooked by my dark youth, bread and butter, cheese &c. For supper we had peaches, bread and apple sauce and brown bread 40¢ a loaf Sutlers price

Wednesday, July 20, 1864.

It rained nearly all night. The firing at the front last night was quite heavy, both Artillery and Infantry. We had another added to our number yesterday a 1^st Lieu^t. 35 Mass. It is his turn to go to the Sanitary after stimulants. We have another addition to our family in the person of L^t Bowman 57^th Mass. Cap Crichley 100^th Penna has removed his quarters over the way with L^t Justin Commissary of the Hospital. All quiet to day at the front The Johnnies throw their shells right into our trenches and wound quite a number and kill some. The men got very wet.

Thursday, July 21, 1864.

A fine night to sleep, but the pickets or some one else kept up a continued bang all night. Musketry was heavy. We could hear the bullets sing Every thing has been very quiet at the front to day. The day has been cool and comfortable. I have written a note to Gen^l Burnside about my leave of absence. I shall take it over to his Head Quarters and hand it in myself and see what comes of it. I fired my pistol off yesterday and Geo cleaned it The powder was wet, not having fired it off for two months and one half I went to see Gen^l Burnside to get a chance to go home "no go"

Friday, July 22, 1864.

I slept so sound last night that I heard no firing at the front 'though I understood that there was heavy skirmishing. I am very thin in my legs, arms and upper part of my body but my waist is as big as ever, as my sword belt testifies. We live high here on the Sanitary preserved meats fruits &c. Brandy Whiskey Gin and beer. We should starve if it was not for the generosity of the Sanitary Commission. We moved into another and larger tent this P.M. We have 8 bunks now & they are all occupied. A large number of sick and wounded were moved to City Point to day

Saturday, July 23, 1864.

A quiet night. not as much popping of fire arms as usual 'though there has been very little cessation for a long time. Yesterday the 4^th Div of the 9^th Corps (colored) came here yesterday, and the plain back of Burnsides H^d Qrs. is covered with "Smoked Yankees" They are a jolly set and seem as happy as "clams at high water". I found a man to day who mended boots and I had mine patched behind. My diarrhea has begun again but it may not continue. I do not gain any strength and I hope that they will send us to City Point soon

Sunday, July 24, 1864.

Quite a cold night last night. I had a wash all over this morning. Pretty noisy at the front last night and it does not seem like Sunday morning as heavy Artillery is hard at work. Grant must be vigorous and do something pretty quick if he wants any men left. the sick keep coming in and wounded, but nearly ten sick to one wounded. I had a letter from Sister Ellen to day and one from Carrie also 3 papers from Edw^d L^t Bowman 57^th Mass reported to his Reg^t this A.M. and in four hours time was severely wounded in the back by a piece of shell and is now here. He cannot live.

Monday, July 25, 1864.

It rained hard all night and it blew a gale. I really thought at one time that our tent would blow down; the "tent pins" had to be driven down two or three times. I had a letter from Bro. Thomas this morning containing $16.00 in Greenbacks. I shall not answer the letter till I get the box that my Brother started on the 22^d of July, the day after the date of the letter. I walked over to the Regt to see the "boys", accompanied by Sergt. Farr. We found the Regt at Battalion drill, having been relieved from the front trenches the night before. I could not wait to see the end and came away. Farr bought a quart of fresh tomatoes 25¢ they tasted good

Tuesday, July 26, 1864.

I slept very sound last night owing I think to a whiskey punch before going to bed. The firing was very heavy last night but I did not hear it. I feel pretty well this morning having had my regular whiskey. Lieu^t Bowman is still alive & quite comfortable. He may be too much for them yet. He is a fine fellow and bears himself like a hero and a soldier. I went over to the Regt to see the boys this forenoon but I was too late. They were just going out to Brigade review. Why don't they kill the men at once and be done with it. L^t Bowman died this ev^g at ¼ after 10 O'clk one more good soldier "gone up"

Wednesday, July 27, 1864.

A quiet night and a good sleep. The Dr. told me yesterday that he did not want me to go to the Regt. again as I was not able. He said that when I was fit to go to my Regt, he would let me know. L^t B. F. Chesley Co "H" 59^th Mass. Vet. came to the Hospital last night and took the place formerly occupied by L^t Bowman. Hancocks 2^d Corps made an attack on the right at ½ after 6 O'clock this A.M. and captured 4 pieces of Artillery and several prisoners. Six large guns each drawn by 8 horses came up from City Point the day before yesterday. Petersburg is doomed. We are making preparations to blow up two forts by undermining.

Thursday, July 28, 1864.

A close and warm night. not much sleep. We found out at last that the particles floating about in our tea and coffee are pieces of onion, potato skins &c. the result of using the kettles to boil the soup in and then making the tea and coffee. Rec^d a nice long letter from Nannie yesterday and another from Thomas with a bill of the "box" which started the 23^d they were enclosed in one envelope. I shall answer when the "box" arrives. A report is in circulation that the Officers in this Hospital will be charg'd $1.00 a day for board. The board now is not worth that much a week. 1^st Serg^t Knott V. Martin Co "K" 59^th Mass. came here yesterday wounded in leg

Friday, July 29, 1864.

Another close night. I lay without any blankets over me and yet I perspired freely. Heavy firing all night long. Our "100" pounder made the ground tremble The "Johnnies" threw shells with savage earnestness, but after a while our batteries had it all their own way. Deaths occur daily at this Hospital four having died last night in the tent below me, most of them being "Heavy Artillery" old men and boys. I was lucky enough to be among the number who were removed to City Point to day. We left at 10 O'clock and got to the Point Hospital at 1 O'clock. I saw Dr. Dalton and stand a good chance of going home. It is a cool and airy place, and ladies wait upon us. We want for nothing

Saturday, July 30, 1864.

I could not sleep well last night. There are a good many wounded Officers in the tent with me and they are always singing out for some thing or some one. I went to the river at ½ after 4 A.M. and had a good wash. "hannigans" opened about 4 AM we can hear the cannonade God grant success to our arms This Hosp^l is pleasantly situated on the "Appomattox" at its confluence with the "James" and is a mile from "City Point". We have iron beds, clean bedding and good food, pure air from the river and good care taken of us. All the Officers went to Washington to day but L^t Mason & myself. I had to wait for George

Sunday, July 31, 1864.

George arrived with my valise soon after dinner yesterday. I find myself at the present time ½ after 6 A.M. on the boat "Connecticut" bound for Washington. George is with me. I had to come away without my breakfast, but I shall find enough to eat on the boat to satisfy my voracious appetite. The boat left the landing at ½ after 7 A.M. After breakfast I took a seat on the upper deck and had a fine view. George was not permitted to go with me but I got him "transportation" on the mail boat, and he is to meet me in Washington. We passed Fortress Monroe at 2 O'clock P.M.

Monday, August 1, 1864.

I sat on deck the largest part of the day, watching the porpoise jump and the schools of mackerel agitate the water. We had a delightful breeze and a pleasant trip. Pass'd M^t Vernon at 10 and landed at Washington at 11 O'clock. I formed the acquaintance of Cap Yeager 50^th Penna Vols who badly wounded in the head on the great charge on Sat^y morn^g last. He wanted a friend and found one in me. We put up at the U.S. Hotel and our rooms join. I dress his wound for him 'till he gets a furlough His time is out on the 20^th of this month. Board only $3. per day? We should have to pay $1.00

Tuesday, August 2, 1864.

I did not rest very well last night. The mosquitoes or some thing else were biting me all the time. I put my pillows on the floor and stretched myself out on the carpet, and made out to get a little sleep. I reported to Dr Antisill and took the Cap. with me. He gets a leave of absence right from here and I have got my transportation papers to Annapolis. I called to see Mr H A Wise last Ev^g. I had a very pleasant call. I was too late for my pay, the office being closed. I shall try it on again tomorrow. I am also going to try for my $100 Bounty due me while in the 22^d Regt and I am going to hunt up my "box". The "Sanitary" do this

Wednesday, August 3, 1864.

I got up betimes and dressed the Captains wound and after breakfast Cap started to see the Dr. and I to get my "needful". I was lucky enough to get paid to the 30^th June 2 mo & 7 days $229.96. I paid my servant what I owed him $26 and also what L^t Clapp owed him $37.00 Captain Yeager's Brother answered his telegraphic despatch by coming to see him. he arrived just before supper. I found where my box was stored, which I sent to Georgetown from Halls Hill in 1861 and got an order to get it George will bring it along tomorrow. I am going to try to get my "Discharge" from the U.S. Service and the Sanitary Commission are going to get my $100 Bounty for me.

Thursday, August 4, 1864.

It was a good night for sleep and I slipped my mosquito guard over my head, and off I went to the "land of Nod". I went with the Cap. to get his pay, but it being one of those National humbugs called a "Fast", the Public buildings were all closed I was disappointed for I could not get my discharge papers, and it puts my departure from this place back a day. George came along with my box and it opened all right. George took every thing out of my knapsack and packed them into my trunk. I am going to leave my blankets and over coat with him untill I return to this place before going to the "front". The day has been quite warm and the streets dusty

Friday, August 5, 1864.

I slept sound and had a good appetite for breakfast. Captain Yeager was fortunate enough to be paid off to day to the "tune" of $1267—He bought an entire new suit of citizens clothes, and left for home in the 4.45 train. I succeeded in getting my Discharge from the "Pension" Office and am in a fair way of getting my Bounty of $100. I feel pretty tired to day, having walked about a good deal. I am all covered over with a kind of rash which is very troublesome. It looks very much like poison as it is breaking out between the fingers and forms little blisters

Saturday, August 6, 1864.

It rained hard when I awoke this morning and George not coming into my room 'till ¼ before 6 I had not time to take the ½ after 6 train, and concluded to go in the 4.40 train. Every thing went well 'till ½ after 4—when the coach came, and I left the Hotel. But the driver got me there too late for me to get my transportation approved by the Captain of the "Guard" and I bought a ticket at the office; but the cars left one end of the Depot before I could catch them. I called on Mr & Mrs "Parker" of Billerica [?] Parents of Sergt Steve Parker Co D. 59^th Mass. who was killed July 30^th/64. My Bounty is to be sent to me at Annapolis early in the week

Sunday, August 7, 1864.

Sunday in Washington! It is a dreary place enough to spend three or four days in, but when it comes to Sunday—the Lord deliver me from spending another one in Washington. I accepted an invitation to drive over to Georgetown heights and see Otis Brown, but we could not get over the Aqueduct Bridge on account of not having any pass, it was Captain Wilsons fault for it was left with him to procure a pass. Mr and Mrs Parker of Billerica Mass were the others of the party, Captain Wilson being Mrs Parkers Brother. We had a pleasant drive & arrived home in time for dinner I did some writing for Captain Geo. W. Field Co "D" 59^th Mass Vol.

Monday, August 8, 1864.

I passed a good night and was called in the morning at ½ after 4. I got ready to take the cars for the Hospital at Annapolis Md. where I arrived at ½ after 9. I was very tired when I got to my room, which is in a fine brick building. My room is in the ~~fourth~~ third story and there are four beds in it, all occupied by nice and clever officers: two of them are "Masons", and we are on very good terms. We across the way to get our dinner &c The grounds are very well kept, & the sidewalks are all brick. The Officers are charged $1.00 a day for board, which is none of the best at the price. There are two "bands" connected with the establishment and they are blowing away all day long. A concert is given every Ev^g by the Band opposite my Hotel.

Tuesday, August 9, 1864.

On account of four or five Officers misbehaving themselves and making a row, getting drunk &c in the town, no Officer is allowed to leave the "grounds" without a pass approved by the Surgeon in charge. I got a pass to go into the "town" and I made it my business to find Cousin _____ Phillips, who is a nurse in one of the Hospitals here. I could not find her at S^t Johns Hospital and I was so tired that I did not try any further. There is a funeral here from this Hospital (Navy Hospital) every day or has been one every day since I have been here. I wrote to Maj. Gen H. W. Halleck to day for a leave of absence; also a letter to Commodore H. A. Wise I have a bad humour

Wednesday, August 10, 1864.

Not much sleep in the night, so I made up for lost time to day. Cap. Black of the 144^th Ohio Vols. who has been one of my "chums" left here to day for his Regt. which is about a mile from Harpers Ferry Va. He leaves his companion in arms Major Buell of the same Regt. Their term of service expires soon. Lieu^t Montgomery of the 70^th Regt N.Y. Vols came here on Tuesday with his left arm off at the elbow joint He has been home on a leave of absence. Another funeral to day. Some say three. The full band plays a dirge, it is quite solemn. Annapolis is a very pretty place full of noble trees and fine old houses. The houses were built long ago and are very old fashioned. something in the style of the old Rumford house Woburn Mass. The capitol is aged 100 years

Thursday, August 11, 1864.

What with the "dogs" and the heat and the "prickly heat", I did not get to sleep 'till towards morning and then the "cats" held a meeting and a "stormy debate" followed, and I got scarcely any sleep at all. The days are awful hot and I keep my room pretty much all day. The "Pay Master" was here to day and I got the rest of my pay. One month $102.25¢. We had quite a hurricane after supper and the leaves and dust flew some. Afterwards we had a little rain. An Officer has no need to go out of the yard for amusement. We have good reading room, all the papers and periodicals, books of all sorts &c. Saloon for ice cream, beer & "claret punch", dry goods, boots & shoes &c.

Friday, August 12, 1864.

I did not get to sleep untill nearly 4 O'clock. it was so warm. We had all the windows open (3) and we got all the wind that was going, but it was no go, the heat predominated. We went down to the "Boat house" and had a good bath and swim in the salt water. It felt quite refreshing. I wrote a letter to Washington about my Bounty money which has not arrived here yet. I also wrote a letter to A. H. Sweetser Clerk at Head Quarters 59^th Mass. Vols. asking him about Col. Gould and the money for those "recruits" amounting to ($192.00) One hundred and ninety two doll. I had a letter from my orderly Serg^t Smith Vaughn to day, giving me an account of the Co. lost four men on the 30^th June. I shall answer it tomorrow

Saturday, August 13, 1864.

Another smoking hot day. I stay in my room the biggest part of the day as I cannot bear the burning heat of the sun. We patronized the "Boat House" again to day, and had a salt water bath. My application for Leave of Absence was sent back to me because it was not endorsed by the Surgeon in Charge. I wrote another and gave it to our Ward Dr to day. I did not write to Serg^t Vaughn as I could not get any one to "change" a $100 bill for me, so that I could send the money for my board to the Co in the letter. We had a fine shower this Ev^g with a little hail. A boat load of paroled ~~Rebel~~ Union prisoners arrived here this Ev^g. I met Sergt Chandler Co "K" 59^th Mass. who was wounded June 17^th I had quite a talk with him

Sunday, August 14, 1864.

Sunday in Annapolis Md. I enjoyed myself better here than I did last Sunday in Washington. I had two salt water baths to day and I think that it is doing me good The day has been very warm and I cannot sleep at all nights, it is so close and hot. The thermometer in the next room indicated 90º at ½ after 10 O'clock at night one night last week and the nights are all "pretty much of a muchness". There were 400 Union prisoners landed from the Steamer "New York" this morning. They looked very sick and feeble. One poor fellow died on the passage, and another after he had got here safe. They were half starved. I shall try to find out something about Elliot Parkman if I can. He was a prisoner in Richmond for a long time

Monday, August 15, 1864.

I dont think I slept at all the whole night. I dozed off about 4 O'clock in the morning. Major Buell of the 144^th Ohio Vols. went home to day his time is up. I accompanied him to the Boat house and took a farewell bath with him. He was my room mate and a tip top fellow. I got a pass and went over "Camp Parole" and found Miss Susan Phillips. She is connected with the Sanitary and is doing a great deal of good. She seemed glad to see me. I ate supper with her and Miss Wolcott and took the ¼ before 7 O'clock back to Annapolis. We had quite a shower in the afternoon. The D^r told me that my "Leave of Absence" "papers" had been approved by the Surgⁿ and forwarded to Washington. I shall hear from them soon. I wrote a letter to Serg^t S. Vaughn, enclosing $35. for board for myself &c

Tuesday, August 16, 1864.

I rested well last night, and had a good appetite for my breakfast Lieu^t Thomas Montgomery of the 170^th Regt. N.Y. Vols. and I took our accustom'd bath together. The Lieu^t lost his left arm at Spotsylvania C.H. on the 18^th of May. I wrote a letter to Henry A. Wise to day about my Bounty money for 1862. Peaches and water-melons, as well as muskmelons and cantaloupe are quite plenty here. We have one or the other every day for dinner or supper. Water melons are worth from 30 to 40¢ a piece and peaches $1.00 per bushel. They have been sold in Baltimore for 20¢ a bushel. You can buy very nice peaches for from 10¢ to 12½ per dozen. There is one plum tree in the yard full of fruit; also a pear tree loaded. We shall soon be enjoying each of these delicious fruits.

Wednesday, August 17, 1864.

Quite cool and looks like rain. It is needed very much. I sent an Application for a pass to go into the town if I felt disposed to do so. It came on to rain just at dinner time, and it rained hard 'till 6 O'clock. I took a walk into the town about 7 O'clock. It must have been a lovely place before the war. I received by mail to day from Washington a "note" on the U.S. Treasurer at N.Y. for one hundred dollars ($100.) payable to me or my order, that being my "Bounty" for 1862.

We got ready for "Inspections" to day, but the Officer did not come. I wrote a letter to Sister Ellen to day, and another to my Orderly Serg^t S. Vaughn. Elliot Parkman did not come from Richmond with the "lot" that arrived here last Saturday. The "Canterbury", a company of actors performed in the mens dining hall last night

Thursday, August 18, 1864.

I slept better last night than I have any night since I have been at this place. I think it is owing to the nice walk &c that I took last night in town. It has been wet and rainy nearly all day, and quite cool. This weather is good for the wounded men. I did not make application for a pass to day and when it got to be ½ past 7 O'clock, I wanted to go some where or do some thing to "kill time". Serg^t Chandler had just come from town and had not given his pass up, so I took it and also my usual walk into the town. It has been 'most too cold for bathing for a couple of days. I mentioned the death of Nathaniel Hawthorne, L^t Montgomery wanted to know if he belonged to my Reg^t

Friday, August 19, 1864.

Cool & damp, with an occasional sprinkle. Good weather for wounded men. I got a pass to go into the town and after the Band had finished I started out on a tour of inspection. I drank a whiskey punch with the Brother of the "Medical director" of the "Army of the Potomac" M^cFarlin. The officers here are of all grades from a Colonel down to a 2^d Lieu^t and a pretty good looking set they are. I saw one of the 59^th Mass. Regt. to day who was wounded and taken prisoner at the fight at Shady Grove on the 3^d of June. He tells the same story as the rest of their treatment while in the "Libby". If you had any money you could buy bread at $1.00 a loaf and small at that. It looks as if we were going to have more rain.

Saturday, August 20, 1864.

A comfortable night to sleep. It continued damp untill about the time we had done dinner, when it opened on us with rain, and poured away all the afternoon. I took a salt water bath and swim to day all by myself, the rest thinking it was too cold. Our hot weather has ended for the season I think. The workmen commenced digging a hole a week ago for a "flag pole". The hole has been finished some time and the "pole" was brought out to day and laid upon boxes and wooden horses in front of the door of my abode. It will not be long now before the "Staff" will be raised. I hear that our Regt has been paid off and that Col. J. P. Gould has gone home. I shall go to see him when I get home.

Sunday, August 21, 1864.

It rained hard nearly all night, but none during the day. The sun has not been out, but it has been cloudy and damp. It is starlight at 8 O'clock. I started to take my daily bath but found the Boat house closed, and came back again. I had a nice walk though. A fine stone quay runs all around the place on the water side, and the view across the river is very beautiful, the waving corn and fields of grain, the houses nestled in the woods and crowning the hills combined with the sheen of the water, the "craft" from the large steamer down to the little sail and row boat which are continually plying upon its surface, form a very refreshing prospect on a hot day.

Monday, August 22, 1864.

The great event of the day was the raising of the flag pole. At 4 O'clock the Band took their places on the stand, leaving room for the speakers. As the stars and stripes opened their folds to the breeze, the band struck up the "Star Spangled Banner", which was followed by prayer and singing. It began to rain before the speeches began, and we all adjourned to the Chapel. The services lasted 'till about 6 O'clock P.M. and were quite interesting. The speakers were members of the Maryland Legislature which meets here at Annapolis. If you can judge by their "talk", they are very patriotic, but I would rather hear them "talk" through the muzzles of their "guns". The time for talking is over, and has been for some time: Action is what we want

Tuesday, August 23, 1864.

I rested tolerably well, but awoke with a griping pain in my stomach and diarrhea. I did not go down to breakfast, but fasted 'till dinner & had a good appetite for that meal. The officers are very attentive to each other at the table, those who have two arms helping those with only one, cutting up their meat for them and performing numerous other kindnesses. There are a large number of Officers here who "meet upon the level and part upon the square" and it seems to have a good effect upon those who are not of the "craft" as the example shown is well worth following. Serg^t Chandler Co "K" 59^th Reg^t Mass. Infantry left here for the front this afternoon. He left in good spirit going at his own desire. God speed him.

Wednesday, August 24, 1864.

A good cool night for sleep, and very few mosquitoes to annoy you. I ate a good breakfast but have not felt well all day. The diarrhea is on me again as bad as ever, and I was called upon very loudly after I had retired for the night. I kept my bed pretty much all day, only arousing myself to get my meals. Thirty six sick and wounded Officers from Gen^l Sheridans army came in here to day, also three hundred and forty paroled prisoners from the City of Richmond. Officers are detailed on light duty as fast as they recover sufficiently, and are sent to Washington and other places, so the faces are changing almost every day. If it were not so, the Hospital would soon be full and running over.

Thursday, August 25, 1864.

A good appetite for breakfast, and a very good morning meal. The fish are handy and easy to catch, and we have them cooked in some form every day. We have meat of all kinds three times a day. A fire Co. has been organized in the yard, in fact, two Cos. Two engines were hauled out from some out of the way place and the men accompanied by the Band, marched with their "tubs" around the lawn and "flag pole" and played a stream upon the Hospital flag, which is up instead of the "Stars and stripes". My Leave of Absence papers came back from Washington "not granted" so I shall have to stay here 'till they think me fit for duty and send me back to my Regiment.

Friday, August 26, 1864.

The nights are quite cool and right for sleep, but the days are quite warm especially the middle, which makes out to be hot. I wrote a letter to Brother Edward this forenoon, telling him that my "leave of Absence" is knocked in the head. I got a pass this noon and went into the town. I carried my boots to a shoemaker, to have them tapped and oiled and put in good order for another "siege". I bought a bottle of castor oil for 18¢ for the man to oil them with. I took my shoes out of my "trunk" and had them polished, and they look first rate. they were made in the spring of 1861 and have been in my box at Georgetown and then in Washington ever since the 1^st of March 1862 two years. I wore them nearly 6 months before boxing them up. They need very little repairing

Saturday, August 27, 1864.

I lay'd abed longer than usual this morning and eat my breakfast at the second table. I found that I had more room to "sprawl" in and the waiters had nothing to do but to wait on me I think I shall follow suit every morning, as I liked the plan so well this time. Yesterday when I was in the town I purchased red flannel (opera) enough to make me two shirts and grey ditto for two pair of drawers & cotton & buttons to go with them. Seven yds for shirts, five & one half yds. for drawers all amounting to $13.00. I took my sack coat and vest to be scoured and mended. I bought a set of 2^d Lieut^s shoulder straps, which I am going to have put on to my "Sack" in the place of the ones now on, which are "fatigue" and were given to me by 1^st Lieu^t Milward near the middle of June.

Sunday, August 28, 1864.

Sunday is always a dull day, even if you are in a city and can go where you; but in a Hospital it is "time kill time", and a tough time we have of it. I wrote a letter to A.H. Sweetser Clerk at the Head Quarters of the 59^th Regt. Mass. Vet. Vols. and one to my servant George Mathis at Washington; he is waiting for me to go to the "front" again, and he goes with me. I took a walk after the band had done playing and found myself at the water's edge on the quay. The Severn was as calm as a mirror, and the air was cool and refreshing. After making my poor bones ache by sitting for some length of period on one of the hard and rough iron settees opposite the door of my mansion, I got up and went up stairs to roost. A little reading of the scriptures, and a good quantity of sleep in the P.M. I got rid of the day.

Monday, August 29, 1864.

I passed a comfortable night and felt pretty bright this A.M. I feel weak yet from the effects of the diarrhea which still follows me up. I made application for and got a pass, and after the band had done playing I took a walk into the town and got my boots, and left my shoes to be repaired. A new Dr. came to see us to day, and told me that I should be fit for some duty before long. I said nothing but kept quiet. I shall try to get paid off again before I go back to the Reg^t. This is my birth day Thirty six (36) years old. I wonder if I was considered worth a "plum pudding" at home, or a glass of wine drank to my health and safe return.

Tuesday, August 30, 1864.

The day has passed off without any unusual excitement Dr B. A. Vanderkieft Surgeon in charge at this Hospital visited our ward to day. He was accompanied by Dr J. H. Longenecker. After examining me they prescribed some powders to be taken once in four hours. I shall not be thought fit for duty just yet. I shall ask to be sent to my Regt. when the Doctor thinks that I shall be fit for duty. I received an answer from H. A. Wise U.S.N. to a letter which I wrote to him last Thursday. It came yesterday. "The rules are so rigid", he writes, "that no exception will be made in your case", so I shall give up trying 'till next winter. I got a pass & went into the town in the evening The place is not over stock'd with gas lamps, and it is pretty "pokerish" getting about. You are as liable to walk into a hole as anywhere else

Wednesday, August 31, 1864.

No passes given out this morning, as it is the last day of the month, and every officer is expected to settle his bill or have an "order" sent to him to do so. A few of the Officers of my "ward" would not go 'till they had "Official" notice, which "notice" came in the course of the afternoon in the shape of an "order" which they instantly obeyed. My bill amounted to ($24) Twenty four dollars, from the 8^th of Aug. to the 1^st of Sep, in all twenty four days at $1.00 a day for board—all functional parts of a day either going from or coming to the Hospital counting as one day. I had a letter from Bro. Thomas. He never got the letter that I wrote him from Washington I received a letter from my servant George. All the Officers were drawn up in line and answered to their names, called by Dr Vanderkieft. It was a muster for pay.

Thursday, Sept. 1, 1864.

I slept in new quarters last night as we were moved to the second building on the right as you enter the yard. Dr Meyer and Lieu^t Bancroft of the 5^th Va. Vols. are in the same room with me and they were in the same "ward" in the other building. I got a pass and went into the town with Dr Meyer, L^t Bancroft and Captain Jones of the 30^th Maine Vols. and had a good walk and a gay time. I am sorry to lose my old nurse Mr. Tenniman of Roxbury Mass. 35^th Mass Infantry. I got my vest from the tailor and he has made it look as good as new. My coat is going to be ready for me by Friday night or Saturday morning. I got my shoes from the shoemaker last evening. He took the outer "taps" off and put nails in the toes and heels for 25¢. They are a good pair of shoes.

Friday, Sept. 2, 1864.

The Paymaster had his "spondoolicks" all ready this morning to pay the Officers. After getting into a jam and all that sort of thing I made out to get my pay for Aug. I wrote a letter to my servant George and sent him two months' wages. The Officers in this Hospital voted for their respective candidates for the next Presidency. The vote stood as follows "Lincoln" 237—M^cLellan 32. Fremont 1. There are at present 332 Officers here I took my usual walk into the town and got weighed on Adams express scales. I weigh 121½ lbs having gained 11 lbs since coming here. It is not all good flesh but looks like bloat. The results of our vote was made known last Ev^g at 8 O'clock at the State House and they had a big time. Speeches and music' till late at night

Saturday, Sept. 3, 1864.

Dr Meyer and L^t Bancroft of the 5^th Va. Vol. left here this morning in the first train and I took possession of the Drs bed, it being near the window. I met an old acquaintance at the supper table this Ev^g. It was Captain Adams of the 56^th Mass. Vols. He was wounded and taken prisoner the 6^th of May at the "Wilderness" and has but just returned from Richmond. He has been promoted to Major during his captivity, being Senior Captain. He spoke to me first; after we had eyed each other for some time, he said "I know you". I answered "I know you"; he said isn't your name Frothingham? when I said yes he got up and extended his hand, which I took and we had a good hearty shake. I couldn't call him by name and he told me his name was Adams. I know he is a Boston boy, but I don't know of what family he is Captain Adams was on one side of the table and I was opposite

Sunday, Sept. 4, 1864.

It rained in the night and a part of the forenoon. I staid in my room all the first part of the day. The Doctor (the same one who attended to me when I first came here, Dr Maughlin) gave me some medicine, to take down my bloat. I went into the town to see an old friend who is now a clerk at the "College Green Barracks", Ch^s K. Conn of Woburn Serg^t Major 39^th Mass. Vols. He was wounded in the groin May 8^th and was a prisoner in Richmond 'till a short time ago. I got my "sack" from the tailor. It looks as good as new. I bought a "regulation" hat last Ev^g and I am going to have a bugle sewed on and the figures "59" in the centre. It is to be ready for me tomorrow Ev^g. I shall be ordered before Gen^l Grahams "board" before long.

Monday, Sept. 5, 1864.

Quite cool and nights favorable for sleep. I made an application for a pass to go into the town but I did not use it as I was ordered to report at the treasurers office at 1 O'clock I reported as ordered and had to pay for five day's board, and got an order to report to Col Root at Annapolis. On reporting to Col Root, I received orders to report to A.Q.M. for transportation to Washington. Cap. Meyers & L^t Martin both of the 116 Ohio Vol. and I stopped at the National House over night. I got my hat and had a good time with my brother officers. I got my shirts and drawers from the tailor. It looked like rain in the morning and it began to rain in good earnest at 6 O'clock P.M.

Tuesday, Sept. 6, 1864.

We passed a very comfortable night at the National Hotel at Annapolis and after eating breakfast we took the 6 O'clock for Washington. Lt. Martin went to join his Regt. at Harpers Ferry, while Cap. Meyers, who is discharged, and myself went on to Washington together. We arrived in Washington about 9 O'clock A.M. and put up at the U.S. Hotel. I saw my servant George and he is coming to the Hotel tomorrow morning. I got transportation to City Point for myself and servant and leave here in the boat tomorrow at 2 O'clock P.M. I feel pretty tired tonight, having walked about all the forenoon showing the Cap about and this P.M. hunting up George &c. I called on Cap. H. A. Wise in the Ev^g was very kindly received. Bought $1.50 in postage stamps.

Wednesday, Sept. 7, 1864.

The Cap. and I have a room with two beds in it at the U.S. Hotel and we passed a comfortable night at least I did and I had a good appetite for breakfast. After our morning repast my servant came and went with me to get a valise. I went over the Capitol and grounds with Captain Meyers and had a pleasant time. I took the boat at 2 O'clock and made out to have my servant carried for nothing. We had a very pleasant sail down the river, passed M^t Vernon about 4 o'clock P.M. Cap Meyers placed his case in the hands of a [?] who is going to put him through for $25. I bought two canteens of whiskey for the boys.

Thursday, Sept. 8, 1864.

I had a mattress and blankets put on the floor of the ladies cabin and had a good sleep. We had a pleasant trip down the river and arrived at City Point at 4 o'clock P.M. where I saw Serg^t Copeland Hosp^l Steward of the 1^st Div 9^th Corps Hosp^l and he took all my baggage on his team and my servant and I went on foot. It is fifteen miles from the Point to this Hosp^l and with the exception of riding on Copeland's horse a mile or two I walked all the way. We arrived here at 11 O'clock at night. We got stuck once but were helped out by another team. I felt pretty well used up. Well here I am once more at the front. I shall go to my Reg^t. tomorrow Adj^t. Warren is dead and the boys are pretty well dimmed out.

Friday, Sept. 9, 1864.

I slept in "Steward" Copelands tent and had a good rest. I got up and ate a breakfast of mutton soup (can mutton) bread and butter and coffee. Feeling pretty tired and not finding any ambulances going to the "front" I concluded to wait untill tomorrow morning when an ambulance is going at 7 O'clock. I saw Lieu^t Fefield at the Hosp^l. We are now in the 3^d Div. 3^d Brig. 9^th Corps. I could not keep quiet as I wanted to be with the Reg^t as soon as I could. I called on Cap. Davis of the Sanitary Commission and he gave me a box of "condensed" milk, a bottle of Jamaican rum &c for the boys. I have not got any cold from getting wet last night. Serg^t Farr and guard are ordered to join the Company.

Saturday, Sept. 10, 1864.

I slept in the Officers tent at the Hospital last night there being a spare bed. The firing was pretty heavy, but mostly big guns. I had a good sleep. I rode here in an ambulance, and reported for duty at 9 O'clock. I "mess" with the Officers at 75¢ per day I had my Co. build me a bough house in addition to the head Quarters, and had my tent pitched under it. This is place is quiet, no firing being heard. There was an inspection by Co. this P.M. at 5 O'clk and I had the pleasure of inspec^g my Co. once more. I had a good wash in a tub and donned my new shirts and drawers. Our breastworks are high and we feel perfectly safe behind them We have a Sutler with us

Sunday, Sept. 11, 1864.

I rested well last night and feel all right for duty, which came in the shape of "picket". I went on picket at 9 O'clock this morning. Our picket line is not a great distance from the Reg^t but it is all fell'd timber, and is a rough place to get about in. I came to camp for my meals and I carried my great coat out with me when I went back after supper; also my rubber blanket. I put on my coat and spread my blanket on the ground and slept as well as I could. The wind blew down our bough house and laid the centre tent low. My tent escaped. We sent out a scouting party at 4 O'clock P.M. but found all quiet. I was going to write home to day but being on picket guard I shall have to let it go till tomorrow.

Monday, Sept. 12, 1864.

It was confounded cold last night and my bed was the "soft side of a board" with a rubber blanket under me I put on my great coat and spread myself out for a night's rest. I could not get more than ½ hour's sleep at a time, as a continual fire was kept up all night long on the right. In the course of the night a shot was heard on our line, and the whistle of the bullet was plainly heard. I went to the spot over the fallen trees, and came onto a post entirely deserted. I hunted up the cravens who had run to the rear and posted the two videttes who had caused the needless alarm. One of the sentinels shot himself in the hand. I was relieved at 9 O'clock A.M. I wrote a letter to Bro. Thomas The shot was fired at an "object" about 10 O'clock. I had a Serg^t 2 Corp^ls & 24 men under me.

Tuesday, Sept. 13, 1864.

I "turned in" betimes and was allowed to rest undisturbed untill morning. It was a pretty cold night, but I was quite comfortable under one thickness of my heavy woolen blanket, a present from Uncle Sydney. Every thing passed off in a quiet manner. We have an inspection by Co and drill after supper. There is a report that the 5^th Corps now on the Weldon R.R. have orders to make themselves comfortable for the winter. The 9^th Corps may have an order like it before long. The Major Joseph Collins of Roxbury received his commission as Lieu^t Col. to day and our Adjutant H. M. Warren who was mortally wounded on Aug. 19^th rec^d his commission of Major at the same time Poor fellow it came too late for him. Resolutions have been drawn up by the officers on the death of Col. Gould, Lieu^t Col Hodges and Major Warren, copies sent &c

Wednesday, Sept. 14, 1864.

I was routed up in the morning at 4 O'clock in company with Lieu^t Jenks, and inspected the Reg^t together. It is done every morning. The men are inspected and stand one hour and then go to their quarters. It is done so as to be ready for a morning attack. An order came from Brig. H^d Qrs to day to fall the men in at ½ after 4 O'clock and stay till ½ after 5 O'clock then inspected and break ranks. A new line of "Abattis" was built in front of the first line, and about as far from it as the first line is from the breastworks, i.e. about 100 feet. Lieu^t Jenks and I had charge of our line in front of our Reg^t Captain Gould superintended the whole thing. We finished it by 5 O'clock. My bed is four crotched sticks with poles laid across.

Thursday, Sept. 15, 1864.

I was awoke at ½ after 4 O'clock this morning to go out and inspect the Reg^t but on second thoughts I was kindly permitted to keep my bed. The Quarter Master teams arrived here this forenoon with the Officers baggage. The Com^y books, box &c are now in my tent, and Serg^t Bearse has brought his desk and seat, so he can post up the books where he can be undisturbed. I left my valise at the Hospital in the care of Mr Copeland and Lieu^t Church is going to bring it up to me. I was detailed for "fatigue" in the forenoon & went with 24 men and reported to Cap. Richardson 29^th Mass. Vols. We marched two miles and worked in the P.M. chopping some trees to make a corduroy road. I did not have any dinner and was I was hungry for supper. The Reg^t had a "Dress Parade" this afternoon.

Friday, Sept. 16, 1864.

We were out under arms this A.M. right after breakfast, expecting to have an attack, as heavy Infantry firing was heard on our left. It amounted to this Some say that our scouting party and the scouting party of the enemy met & exchanged shots. Our party numbered 25 men. The last report is that the enemy advanced in force on the pickets of the 5^th Corps and drove them in at the same time they had a line of battle in the woods. They did not dare to advance into the open field. It was on the Weldon R.R. The 58^th Mass and the Maryland Brig. held the line till reinforcements came to their relief. I had a fatigue party under me strengthening the Abattis in our front. I had the 3^d relief, L^t Welch the 2^d and L^t Jenks the 1^st I was out all the afternoon. Rec^d from Bro Thomas a document to sign regarding the will of P. C. Brooks

Saturday, Sept. 17, 1864.

Every thing quiet to day not even a shot heard. Lieu^t Goldsmith, Jenks & myself were detailed on police duty in and around the camp, burning the brush between the two "Abattis" and the rear of Officers' quarters. I wrote long letter to Bro. Thomas in answer to the one which was enclosed with the "document" which I received ~~the day before~~ yesterday. We had a "Dress Parade" at 5 O'clock this afternoon and it went off in good style. Serg^t M^cNamara of Co. "B" who was thought by the Drs. to be mortally wounded on the charge on the 17^th June being shot through the centre of the body, came back to the Reg^t for duty to day. He made up his mind that he would not die, and his spunk saved his life. Cap. Wilder of Co "G" sent in his resignation a few days ago. It will be accepted without a doubt, as he has not been with the Co. since May 14^th 1864.

Sunday, Sept. 18, 1864.

We had a Regimental inspection at 10 O'clock this forenoon, and there being but few Officers present for duty, the Reg^t was divided into three Cos I having command of "D" and "G". We also had a creditable "Dress Parade" at 5 O'clock in the afternoon. Rations of whiskey were drawn for the Reg^t and the members of Co "F", a corporal among them got a little too high and two of them got into a fight, the corporal setting them on. They were all tied to up to trees, and not keeping quiet they were gagg'd. The language which they used was too profane and insulting towards the Officer of the Co. and the Commanding Officer of the Reg^t L^t Col. Colburn to admit of my putting on this paper. They were kept tied 'till 9 O'clock and then taken down and a guard placed over them untill morning. They all threatened to desert to the enemy &c &c

Monday, Sept. 19, 1864.

The men who were tied up to trees yesterday were taken down, but had their hands kept tied, and a guard placed over them 'till morning, when they were tied up two hours longer & then made to chop down & level the stumps in front of head Qrs. and to carry off all the chips and were released at "retreat". A Brigade inspection by Regts. at Brig. Head Qrs at 12 O'clock. A "Dress Parade" at ½ after 4 O'clock P.M. when orders were read for the government of the Division. Company drill from 9 O'clock 'till ½ after 10 School of instruction for Officers of the line from 11 O'clock 'till 12M. School &c for Serg^ts from 1 O'clock 'till ½ after 4. School of Officers to be superintended by the Commander of the Reg^t, School of Serg^ts by a field officer.

Tuesday, Sept. 20, 1864.

According to orders, each commander of a C^o turned out at ½ after 4 o'clock A.M. and got his C^o into line, and inspected his men at ½ after 5 C^o and Squad drill from 9 'till ½ after 10 O'clk. Officers school at 11 O'clock till 12. We had a Battalion drill from ½ after 2 O'clock 'till 4 and a Dress Parade at 5 O'clock. This is to be our daily routine of duty. I left the Officers mess yesterday and started a mess of four Lieu^ts Jenks, Buttrick, Cotting and myself. My black servant is cook & caterer for the mess. We ate our first meal (dinner) yesterday. We can live cheaper than before. The other Officers pay $1.00 a day for board, we can live for about $3.00 a week and have all that we want. I wrote a letter to Nat yesterday & sent it to day. I had a letter from Bro. Thomas yesterday. He had not rec^d the $150 sent him by express. I wrote him back and sent Adam's receipt for the money

Wednesday, Sept. 21, 1864.

Every thing was quiet on the line last night. Just as I was going to bed an invitation came from Lieu^t Col Tucker of the 57^th Reg^t Mass. Vol. to come over to his tent. I went over with Lieu^t Jenks and spent a pleasant hour mixing and imbibing whiskey. It looks as if it would rain, and as it is time for the Autumnal equinox, I think we shall have a wet day tomorrow, especially as I am on picket. My "army valise" was brought up to me to day from the Hospital. A report is in circulation that (2000) two thousand prisoners came to Gen. Butlers Head Quarters and gave themselves up. The victory in the "Shenandoah" makes the men rejoice and the air is filled with cheers. 5000 taken prisoner, and 6 or 7 Gen^ls killed & wounded

Thursday, Sept. 22, 1864.

It was as I supposed, wet and rainy this morning, it having rained nearly all night. I was on picket to day and the guard was mounted with the camp guard, and after we had passed "in review" I marched my picket guard to Brigade Head Qua^rs and dressed my "detail" on to the general picket detail from the various other Regts. of the Brigade. Guard mounting was gone through with in the usual form and then after passing "in review" we marched by the flank to our different posts. It did not rain all day after I had established my posts 50 men and 10 posts. I borrowed Lieu^t Welch's "rubber coat" for the night. I had a detail of 20 men and 10 axes to clear a path between the the posts so the Lieu^t can get from one to another in the night in case of an attack

Friday, Sept. 23, 1864.

I borrowed Lieu^t Welch's rubber coat and I made myself quite comfortable on my rubber blanket with a fallen tree for my pillow, and wrapped up in the rubber coat. I slept sound, what I did sleep, but that was not much as I had to visit all my posts at 12 O'clock at night, and I was aroused every once in awhile by picket firing on the line. About ½ an hour before I was relieved I heard a shot fired on my part of the line. I went to the place and found the vidette kneeling behind a stump and sighting his gun over it. He told me that there was a Johnny in the woods; he had hardly got the words out of his mouth before I saw the smoke of a gun and a ball whistled close to my head. One of my videttes on the left of my line was wounded in the arm.

Saturday, Sept. 24, 1864.

The days begin to get cool as well as the nights. I am Officer of the day, and have the charge of the "police squad". I see that the camp grounds are swept and the rubbish carried off and burned. No Battalion drill in the afternoon as the men have time to clean up their guns and equipments for 10 O'clock inspection tomorrow, which is a Sunday institution in the army. Another victory obtained by our arms in the valley of the Shenandoah. 16 pieces of Artillery were captured & the Rebel army was so demoralized that were retreating in squads. A salute of 100 shotted guns were fired by Maj. Gen^l Hancock 2^d Corps in honor of the victory. Every thing is quiet in our immediate front. some popping on the right

Sunday, Sept. 25, 1864.

Sunday being the soldiers "day of rest" we began by getting up at 4 O'clock and the men stood in line one hour and then each Co. was inspected by its Commander. At 10 O'clock we had another inspection by Cos and then a rest till 3 O'clock when the bugle call sounded and we fell in for "Brigade" Dress Parade. While going through a few movements by Battalion before marching to the Brigade Head Quarters for parade, orders came to "fall out" and "pack up". We marched about ¾ of a mile to the rear on the line of the corduroy road and were relieved by Gen^l "Ferrero" the New York dancing master who commands the nigger Div in the 9^th Corps. We made our beds in the woods by the side of the road, and slept sound under the towering pines

Monday, Sept. 26, 1864.

Lieu^t Jenks and I bunked together on the ground and slept sound. This morning before breakfast ~~and~~ we moved a little ways back from the road and pitched our camp. We shall have a good deal of work to do clearing the brush away and policing the ground Lieu^t Jenks and I pitched our tents together, and have a double bed and every thing lovely. After I had turned in for the night the Band of the 24^th Reg^t Mass Inf came from their camp to pay a visit to Cap. Gould of our Reg^t. We all turned out to give them a reception. We had a fine time. The band played finely, and every thing went off in good shape especially the whiskey a pail full being drank. The party broke up at 1 O'clock A.M. A quartette in the band sang a number of songs and we had dancing as well as music. My C^o signed the pay rolls to day

Tuesday, Sept. 27, 1864.

Lieu^t Frank Z. Jenks and I had a fine sleep in our new bed and woke early in the morning and saw the welcome form and kindly face of the Pay Master heave in sight. My Co. was paid off before I ate my breakfast. I got no money as I was paid off in the Hosp^l at Annapolis Md. I rec^d a letter from Bro. Thomas to day. He rec^d the "paper and on presenting the rec^t for the $150 and got the money of Adams Express" I got a letter from John Foster Co "D" 22^d Mass Inf. and sent I sent in a request for a leave of absence of 12 hours to go to City Point, as the 22^d is near that place. There are a number of dead horses close to us and the stench is horrid: great piles of brush were heap'd on each of the animals and a bon fire built. The charred remains emit no smell and we get rid of the brush. The men have worked hard all day cleaning up the grounds in front and rear of the camp. a great job.

Wednesday, Sept. 28, 1864.

The Regt. went on fatigue to day and I worked 'till 6 O'clock P.M. building a Fort, called Fort Stevenson. I had my request for a leave to go to City Point approved by Regiment at Brig^d and Div. Head Quarters, and took the 8 O'clock train A.M. and came back in the 6 O'clock P.M. I went to the 22^d Regt Mass Inf. and ate dinner and saw John Foster, Lieut. Clapp and the rest of Co "D". I left to go home. The cars ran off of the track coming back and I had to walk nearly 6 miles. A nigger fell from the top of the car in the morning and was killed instantly his skull was ½ an inch thick by measurement. I sent quite a pile of money home for the "boys" by Adams Express. We are under orders to march in the morning at ½ past 3 O'clock.

Thursday, Sept. 29, 1864.

I was up all night packing up and getting ready to move at ½ after 3 O'clk We had our breakfast at an early hour of boiled pork & potatoes. We had to leave ½ bush potatoes & 6 lbs pork as we could not carry them. We fell in & marched to the other side of the R.R. and stack'd arms by Brigade, close column by Div. and staid there 'till about ½ past 10 when we took arms and marched back to our old quarters to find our potatoes & pork gone. I had a ham given me by Ed. Foster commissary of the 9^th Corps Hosp^l City Point, which we began on for dinner with potatoes & onions. We were ordered by the Bugle call to pack up at ½ past 3 P.M. and at 4 we were again on the road. We marched about a mile to the left to the Gurley House and encamped for the night. The 18^th A.C. are in or near Petersburg. our Cav^y are 7 miles ahead of us and no Rebs are in sight. They have reconnoitered as far as Reams Station on the Welton R.R. The Rebs are coming into our lines every day. They gave up their cause.

Friday, Sept. 30, 1864.

We slept all night in the open air and were about at an early hour and pack'd up our "duds" so as to be ready for a start. We "fell in" about 10 O'clock and started for the left of our line. Heard heavy firing in our front. The 5^th A.C. took the Rebs first & second line of works. The 9^th A.C. went into the fight about 5 O'clock P.M. It was a very sharp engagement. The Rebs outflanked us and the Regts in front of us broke & ran but the 57^th & 59^th Mass. never budged an inch but "double quicked" out into an open field & made a charge in good style. As I was getting my men into line to commence firing I was shot through the right leg half way between the knee & ankle. It was a flesh wound. The ball struck my scabbard when it came out. I walked to an ambulance and was taken to the Hospital near Warrens H^d Qrs.

Saturday, October 1, 1864.

A nasty rainy day; mud boot leg deep. I staid in the "field" Hosp^l at the front 'till towards the middle of the afternoon, when we were put aboard the cars for City Point Hosp^l which we reached about midnight. Capⁿ Gould of Co "I" 59^th is with me, a horse having trod upon his foot and jam^d his big toe. Our boys drive the Rebs this A.M. and hold all the ground fought over yesterday. The 58^th Mass suffered severely, all but about a ½ dozen being taken prisoners. My leg is pretty sore and stiff this morning. I asked the surgeon last night when he dressed my wound if in about a week I should be able to go back to my Reg^t. He said that I should not be fit for duty untill Richmond was captured. The battle last Friday was fought at "Poplar Grove" Church

Sunday, October 2, 1864.

I slept on an iron bedstead & a straw bed, and found myself much refreshed this A.M. I had as much as was good for me to eat for breakfast but at the time of dinner I found that I was put down for a "low" diet and I did not have enough to feed the mosquitoes that were buzzing about my head. I called on "Bro" E^d Foster and got my "little" roast beef &c. I saw Billy Lamb one of my old school mates at Amos Bakers and he told me that he was head Steward for the Corps Hospital. He said he would see that I had enough to eat any way. I ate so much dinner with Foster that I was not hungry for my supper. I made a complaint to Lamb about the grub.

Monday, October 3, 1864.

The day has been damp & cloudy. I rested well and a good appetite for my breakfast which consisted of a slice of toasted bread and butter and a dipper of tea (so called), the tea bag having been shaken at the boiling water. It was consequently quite weak. I met with a great loss to day: my great coat being stolen from the outside of the tent where I had hung it to dry. A fellow that had been acting as nurse in the tent left towards Ev^g for City Point, his Regt. the 4^th R.I. His time is out and he is to be mustered out tomorrow. I shall try to find it. I am on "full" diet again. I ate supper with the chief Steward of the Hosp^l Lamb

Tuesday, October 4, 1864.

George my black servant went to the "Point" this A.M. to get his watch repaired; and he looked after my coat, but the 4^th R.I. had left at day light and the coat has gone up. I shall try to draw a Cav^y coat for the winter. No officer can leave here without a leave of absence approved by the head Surgeon of the Hosp^l and also by Gen^l Meade I made an application this A.M. and it will be on its way to Meade before night. My leg pains me a good deal. quite a number of wounded men left here for Washington to day, three of them from my tent. Mr Baxter of our Band was here this Ev^g he is going to try to get my valise when he goes back

Wednesday, October 5, 1864.

The Dr says I must keep quiet and not walk about any more than I can help. I get as far as the Commissariat & sit down an hour or so & then I come back to my bed & board. Chaplain Howard wrote a note of remembrance to Father for me to take & he sealed up $50 for "Drum Major" Thompson (which "Major" gave him to send home for him) for me to hand to a Warren White 86 Tremont Row Boston. I dined with E^d Foster, Billy Lamb &c. Our arms are victorious in all directions. The R.R. called the South Side is under fire & the Rebs have run no trains since last Sunday. If all reports are true, Petersburg will soon "go up", our army being on the banks of the Appomattox and within 2500 yards of the City. 1500 Reb prisoners came from the front this afternoon 600 yesterday

Thursday, October 6, 1864.

I had a good wash all over this A.M. George got a pail and filled it with spring water and scrubbed me. The river water is poisonous to wounds. Things have been quiet at the front lately; our men are fortifying themselves. Troops are going to the front every day and the army is increasing fast. I was moved from the tent where I have been stopping to Ward C "Officers" tent No 1 The same old place that I was in when I was here in July. I am a little nearer the music and have the pleasure of listening to the harmony of three bands I ate supper with Com^y Foster

Friday, October 7, 1864.

I am on low diet again in the Officers tent. I shall speak to the Dr about it tomorrow. I want to keep what little flesh I have gained. My supper was so long coming (the full diet being ready first) that I toddled down to Fosters tent to see what I could find. I saw L^t Cha^s K. Cotting 59^th who came to see how I was getting along & I found aplenty to eat. Very heavy firing was heard up the river towards F^t Darling. I understand it was the gun boats of Adm^r Farragut. I have not ascertained what was done. My papers came along this Ev^g & I shall be on my "winding" way home tomorrow if a boat goes. I got a pair of leather slippers of the Sanitary the other day. 30 days leave

Saturday, October 8, 1864.

George went to the "Point" after breakfast and took the cars for the front in search of my valise. He returned at 3 O'clock P.M. having gone as far as "Blicks" Station Warrens H^d Qrs. He shouldered the baggage & brought it from the Point I shall go in the Mail boat at 10 O'clock A.M. tomorrow if there is not a hosp boat going before. L^t Buttrick came down from the Regt. to see me to day He will sleep with me to night, as there are a number of beds vacant. Lt Buttrick says our Regt. marched this A.M. and as he could not do much he did not go with them. Our boys were skirmishing when he left them. There are only three Lieu^ts left in the Reg^t all 2^ds

Sunday, October 9, 1864.

It was a very cold night last night and I was glad when morning began to dawn. I ate a parting meal with Bro. Foster and Lieu^t Buttrick and bid good bye to City Point and the friends who had been so kind to me. I got my papers stamped at the Pro. Mar. Office & also transportation for George. I came on the mail boat "Manhattan" with Joe T. Brown, Dr. Broderick, W. M. Baldwin Esqr. who were among a party of five, Major Mott and Brig. Gen^l Ferrero were on the boat. Mr. Baldwin desired to be remembered to Bro Octave. I arrived in Washington and leave at ½ past 6 this Ev^g direct for N.Y. But I anticipate, I have not arrived near Washⁿ yet. I have amused myself on reading the life of Gen. Butler which George found.

Monday, October 10, 1864.

After a pleasant sail (my time being taken up with reading the life of Gen^l Butler) and an almost sleepless night on a bench, I landed at Washington about 10 O'clock A.M. and went straight to the U.S. Hotel where I got dinner. I was paid off by Major Wheeler for September. I bought a silver "Corps pin". I sent my valise home by express (1.75) and George is going to keep my blankets &c until I get back. I paid my passage to New York $8.25 and started in the ½ after 6 P.M. express train. I have not had my wound dressed since last Saturday A.M. and my leg feels very stiff. I shall let it go now 'till I get home. It has been a beautiful day.

Tuesday, October 11, 1864.

I invested a dollar in a berth in the sleeping car and turned in for the night when the train started I arrived in N.Y. at 6 O'clock A.M. and after driving all over the City for the accommodation of others I was landed at the door of Bro. Adams house in time to partake of an early breakfast as Carrie was off for a trip to West Point. The hackman only charged me $4.00^? I had my wound washed by Octave and clean bandages applied, and after sipping a dram or two of whiskey and eating a piece of cake we started for the depot for the ¼ after 12 train. I had a pleasant ride in the cars coming by the way of New Haven and Providence S. Shore and I made the acquaintance of Mrs Newbold of N.Y. and others I promised said Mrs Newbold that she should have this diary to take extracts from for a book. I got home at 7 O'clock & found all the family well

Wednesday, October 12, 1864.

I had a good sleep and it did feel refreshing to lie down on a clean, cool sheet and stretch my lame leg out to its full length. It was the first night that I had gone to bed with all my clothes off for nearly six months. Ellen handled the scissors in a dexterous manner and bound up my wound in a scientific style. Edward and I drove out to Thomas's in the afternoon. Had a nice time, saw Nat who improves. Nellie had her pretty curls all cut off and when she came into the room I hardly knew her. I took a walk this forenoon to get some air and every other person I met was an old friend. The 22^d Mass. Inf. my old Regt. were received last Monday. It was a glorious occasion but I was a day too late. I have my wound dressed with simple ointment spread on sheet lint.

Thursday, October 13, 1864.

It began to rain during the night & when I got up in the morning it was raining hard. I did not go out of the house until after dinner. I sat upon the ottoman in the dining room and rested my wounded leg. I read almost all the time Partons life of Butler. Nannie came down in all the wet to see Father, and overhaul some things which latter occupation she was engaged in when I went up stairs. Hair all off of her head as bad and even worse than "Nellie". Nevertheless she was very glad to see me looking so well, and she looked very pretty. I took a walk after dinner and called on Mr. Metcalf Milk St. to find out about Cap. Potter. He is at Bedloe's Island Hosp N.Y. I shall write to him. He wrote to me but I never got the letter. The wind to day has been NE

Friday, October 14, 1864.

The day opened cloudy & damp with a NE wind. It rained at intervals during the day. The Free Masons celebrated the laying of the "corner stone" of their new Masonic Hall to day. It was very magnificent affair. The procession was over an hour passing the house and Boston never saw a finer. There were over twenty bands of music, some of them very fine and all good. I saw W. Nelson alias "Curly" of my old Co. 22^d Reg^t. He is looking very well. I went to see Mr A Paul N^o 90 Washington St about Jeremiah Murphy of my Co. 59^th who was killed at Spotsylvania May 12^th. I gave Paul Murphy's discharge from the 23^d Mass. My wound is very painful, I must go out for air and walking on it does not do it any good, the cords are stiff all the length of the calf.

Saturday, October 15, 1864.

A rainy night and cold and cloudy day. Thomas brought Nat in from Quincy this morning. I went to Dr. Masons to ask his advice about dressing my wound. He said that warm water and castile soap was the best to wash it with. I still keep on with the simple [?] and bandage. I went with Nat this afternoon and bought him an overcoat at Oak Hall. I also bought a pair of under shirts for myself. I drove to Mr. Hubbards house in Beacon St. with Franklin to carry a "crib" trunk and some other articles. I went to hold the horse. Nannie's baby is to be christened tomorrow. I hope it will be a good day as Father is going to be present at the ceremony, which will be at the house Dr Gannett officiating

Sunday, October 16, 1864.

Another cold and rather dismal day, not any rain to speak of but chilly and damp. The wind SW when I went to church. Father did not go to church and I occupied his place at the head of the pew. We had Mr Foote of "King's Chapel" to preach for us in the afternoon. Little Gorham Hubbard was christened after the morning service, at Mr Hubbards house. He is a fine boy, and behaved himself like a man; grinning and crowing instead of growling and crying. Thomas' two little ones were there, Nellie and Tom, and together with Nat added much variety to the occasion. Father made the concluding prayer. Cake and wine were on the table and the baby's health was drank by all, his Uncle Ward not being behind hand in his duty to his young nephew.

Monday, October 17, 1864.

The 22^d Regt. Mass. Vol. was "mustered out" of the service at 10 O'clock this A.M. I saw a number of old friends. The Reg^t numbers about 100 original members. I saw in the papers that I am promoted and can wear the 1^st Lieu^ts bar. I am going to the museum to night with Curly Nelson and a few friends. The play is the Daughter of the Regiment and it is to be the benefit of Kate Reignolds. Edward drove to Burlington to day. I should have gone with him if it had not been for the mustering out of my old Regt The farm at Burlington is advertised for sale and there is little prospect of our ever going there again to live. The day has been fair and the wind W. Corp Seaverns has been here to see me. I was out

Tuesday, October 18, 1864.

A beautiful day, sunny and warm. Cap Francis A. Wilder met me on the St. to day and I had a long talk with him. Corp. Seaverns and Geo. H. Smith of my Co. 59^th were in town from the Hospital at Readville. Smith lost his arm at the fight at the North Anna River May 24^th '64. We all dined at Messr Jamiesons and Richardsons eating house Spring Lane. My promotion dates from the 10^th of August/64. I cannot be "mustered out" as 2^d Lieu^t and "mustered in" as 1^st Lieu^t here. I have got to wait 'till I get back to the front. I have fought my way to the "bar" and have earned my promotion and if my life is spared I mean to come home a Captain. My path of duty is clear and 'though rugged the way, that path shall be kept and my good name and honor held fast

Wednesday, October 19, 1864.

Bro. Octave came on from N.Y. last Monday to deliver a lecture and staid with us so as to hear Uncle Everetts oration at Faneuil Hall this afternoon. We dined at ½ after 5 O'clock, to give him a chance to digest the speech before he digested his dinner. He spoke of it as a fine production. I went to Charlestown to see John Foster one of my old Co 22^d. I went to see George H. Morse Esqr Father of 1^st Lieu^t Geo J. Morse of my Co 59^th. He wanted to get pay due L^t Morse for his servant W^m Scott. I found Mr Morse and made it all right by signing a paper certifying that said money was due L^t Morse from Gov^t on account of services of said Scott. Mr Morse is a bro of my old friend Sidney B. Morse who used to own the farm in Burlington near mine called Vine Brook farm. A lovely day with the wind NW

Thursday, October 20, 1864.

Another victory in the "Shenandoah". Sheridan has whipp'd Longstreet, routing him completely and capturing from him 43 pieces of artillery. The fine weather and the good news make smiling faces. Ward 11 on the corner of Washington and Dover Sts had a M^cLellan torch light and meeting this Eve^g. There was a rabble of a crowd, a good deal of the slang called "Billingsgate" in the speakers and one or two poor bands of music. I could not be prevailed upon to go in. Bro. Edward and son Nat drove to Burlington to day. As it is the last time that Nat will have a chance to see Burlington this season, he went in my place. He gathered a lot of chestnuts. I bought a set of 1^st Lieuts. shoulder straps to day and had them sewed on by a tailor.

Friday, October 21, 1864.

I walked out with Father an hour on the shady side of Tremont St yesterday and to day. Edward does the same thing an hour in the afternoon. Father has to shut his eyes in the sun, and only opens them in the shade. It has been a splendid day the wind NW and the thermometer standing at 60° at noon at the office of the "Transcript" It stood at 43° in the morning. Sheridans victory was a glorious victory wrung from an almost disastrous defeat by him alone and he cannot be praised too highly. I went to see Aunts Wales and Lincoln and took Nat with me as it is the last time that he will have a chance, as he leaves tomorrow for Kingston and Aunt Lincoln was desirous to see him. I found her unaltered and looking just the same as she has for the last 10 years.

Saturday, October 22, 1864.

Edward went to walk with Father in the forenoon and I in the afternoon Uncle Everett overtook us going around the common and was quite pleasant making Father smile audibly once in a while. Nat went off to Kingston this afternoon in good spirits. he is a fine manly little fellow and the pride of his Father, and all the family. I went to Charleston in the Ev^g to meet a few friends and talk over old times. We were treated by John Foster to an oyster stew &c. It has been a fine day the wind NW. The President has appointed the [blank] of Nov for a day of "Thanksgiving and Praise" for victories received. I hope we shall not meet with any reverses before that time comes. I have heard from Lieu^t Foley 59^th Co B. now Cap Foley who is in Richmond. He is pretty well

Sunday, October 23, 1864.

A fine day. I walked out with my Father before church and then showed him into the pew. I wrote a long letter to Captain Potter at Bedloe's Island Hospital and also another long letter to Lieu^t F. Z. Jenks of the 59^th Reg^t Mr Hubbard and Nannie came to dine with us as usual to day. Mr. Ellis preached all day and two very good sermons. I asked Lieu^t Jenks to draw a Cavalry over coat for me in the place of my coat which I had the misfortune to lose by theft while at City Point. While I am writing Father is singing to his organ and it sounds cheery. Dr Weisslehoft is doing him good service, and I hope he will continue so. the wind to day has been NW

Monday, October 24, 1864.

Father had to dispense with the arms of both Edward and I, and be content to walk with Franklin the coachman as his two promising sons took an early start for Burlington. We had a fine day a fine road, and a fine drive. I saw Mr Nourse, called upon Mr Sewall and family who were all at home & well, and got home in time for dinner at ½ after 3. I did not have time to go to the cemetery, but I mean to take a day and go by myself sometime before I go back to the army. The 6^th Mass Inf (100 days men) were on the parade ground as we came by the common. They made a fine appearance. They went to Readville to camp till after election in case any trouble, instead of being mustered out now. We may have a little excitement on the 8^th of Nov. next and it is best to be prepared

Tuesday, October 25, 1864.

The wind has been SE the greater part of the day, but the sun has been shining bright and the day can be called fine. I went out to Readville Hospital this P.M. to see some of my Co. 59^th I saw Geo. H. Smith who lost his arm at the N. Anna May 24^th, Patrick Kennedy who was shot through the leg at the same fight and Corp W^m H. Seaverns who is all drawn up with rheumatism. I went over to the camp of the 6^th Mass Inf. and saw my wifes Bro Otis S. Brown who has been out for 100 days. He was looking well and will probably go out again. The old barracks at Readville are turned into Hospitals and are very comfortable. A fire occurred in Morris Bro. Pell and Trowbridge Opera house this P.M. which destroyed the building Damages $30,000 insured $10,000

Wednesday, October 26, 1864.

I went to Major Clarks office No 2 Bulfinch St and got a couple of blank "descriptive" lists. I met Pat. Kennedy at the Providence Depot at ½ after 12 and went with him to Mr Dows store, where I filled out his "descriptive" so that he can draw his pay, bounty &c. He was on crutches. The day has been fair but the wind has been SE and a little cool I have tried twice to see Col. Geo. Clark Jr. but have not found him. I hear that he is at Portland Me recruiting. He has left a Lieu^t Dudley to take his place here; Lieu^t Dudley belongs to the 58^th Mass. Inf. has never been out with his Regt. and has been promoted to a 1^st Lieu^t. What has he done to deserve promotion? Staid at home, while his Reg^t has been & is now battling bravely in the field. How lucky some people are!!

Thursday, October 27, 1864.

Father and I took a long walk this morning; it being cloudy we went twice around the common, the "walls" being easier for him to walk on than the brick side walks. He did not take my arm once during the whole time and he never stumbled once. We all think he has improved a great deal under the treatment of Dr Weisslehoft. I went to see the Union "torch light" procession at Roxbury this Ev^g it was a grand affair, the effect of the fire works behind the hedges and trees being very splendid. I had a letter from Cap Potter to day; he thinks he shall be ready to go to the "front" with me. He says he may as well die in the field as in the Hospital. I met Corp. Seaverns at the Depot at ½ past 12. He is going to get a Cavalry over coat drawn for me for $10.50—better than paying $75.00 for one

Friday, October 28, 1864.

It was raining when I awoke this A.M. and it was showery all day. Father & Edward went out for a walk and were caught in one of the showers. No damage done. James C. Boyle of Co "G" 59 Inf. came to see me to day. he is furloughed from Portsmouth Grove Hospital. I agreed to meet him at the State house tomorrow at 10 O'clock and make out a Descriptive list so he can draw his pay, bounty &c. Patrick Roe is at the same Hospital. The 26^th Mass Inf arrived in town to day their time being out. The cadets turned out with full ranks to attend the funeral of Col C. R. Lowell 2^d Mass Cav^y. A salute was fired on the common and the flag was at half mast in honor of Col. Lowell as a Brig. Gen^l his appointment being made before his decease.

Saturday, October 29, 1864.

The morning was clear and cool and the wind NW. I got a pair of heel "steels" made to day to be screwed on to my boots. I went to Major Clarks No 2 Bulfinch St. and got a blank Descriptive list, and went to the State House where I met James C. Boyle as per agreement and made out his Descriptive for him. Edward drove along with the General in the light wagon, and we made Aunt Ellen a visit at Medford. We had a fine drive and a pleasant call. Aunt was very glad to see her nephews and treated us very handsomely. We had a hearty lunch of bread & butter, cake, fruit and wine not forgetting the liquor case containing all the different kinds. Sister Ellen & I were invited to dine with Mr & Mrs Hubbard a very pretty attention which I fully appreciated. I left soon after "tea" as I had an engagement at the Treasurer

Sunday, October 30, 1864.

I took a solitary walk before church and stepp'd in to Joseph T. Browns the Apothecary and bought an ounce of sheet lint in square pieces suitable for dressing wounds. My wound is doing as well as could be expected but I am not able to draw on my boot yet and unless I get my leave of absence "extended" I shall have to start from here a week from tomorrow to be able to report at the Hospital at City Point Va on the 11^th of this month. There is an "Army" surgeon in Newton, and I think of going to see him about my wound and see if he thinks I shall be able to "take the field" by the end of another week. Mr Smith of W. Cambridge preached all day Father went to church in the morning & to walk with Edward in the afternoon.

Monday, October 31, 1864.

Edward drove to Burlington to day and took "account" of stock at the mansion house and did not get back till tea time I walked with Father on the common and Public garden an hour and a quarter and got home just before it began to rain. It commenced to rain in good earnest about 3 O'clock P.M. and poured down for an hour, and very little more wet after that I took Father out to walk after dinner. he improves easily, walking without any support. The 1^st Mass Cavalry arrived home to day, their term of service being ended; also the 42^d Mass Infantry. My friend Calvin Kaynes came home with his Reg^t (42^d) but the poor fellow was in his coffin he having died of Typhus fever. Kaynes very imprudently stood knee deep in the water to cool off being very warm. This ends the month of October.

Tuesday, November 1, 1864.

James G. Boyle Co "G" 59^th Mass Inf. met me by appointment at the house with a blank descriptive list which I filled out for him. He leaves tomorrow for the Hospital at Portsmouth Grove R.I. The day has been fine. the wind NW and the thermometer indicating 31° in the morning. I walked with Father on Harrison Avenue as far as South Boston bridge and back. The walk was not quite so successful as some others, Father being taken with a pain in the side which caused him to stop every ten or fifteen steps. It is an old trouble coming on again and which has not affected him for a long time. A grand "Union" rally and "torch light" procession in Charlestown to night. It is going to be a crusher.

Wednesday, Nov. 2, 1864.

Father and I took our usual morning walk on Tremont St. Colonnade Row and varying it by walking on the Tremont Mall as long as there was any shade there I went with him to the barber to get shaved and on coming home from there, when on the corner of Washington and Summer Sts, he put his foot into some part of a ladys dress and accomplished the feat of being thrown from his feet and measured his length on the side walk. As it did not hurt him we made a joke of it. I went to Readville in the afternoon and got a Cav^y over coat drawn for me for $13. I saw Simon H. Davenport a Corp in my Co. who was shot through the leg at the North Anna fight. I made out his descriptive list to enable him to get his pay. Ellen & I called on Mrs Hubbard but she was not at home. also called to see Aunt Susan but she was sick. I then waited upon Ellen home and made a call on Mary Lincoln and found all the ladies at home

Thursday, November 3, 1864.

Edward drove to Burlington to day and was gone from home 'till tea time. He took an account of stock at the farm house. I intend going up to Burlington by rail and hire a team from Woburn. I shall carry my new over coat to Mr Gage to be altered over. Father and I were successful in our walks. I met Captain Potter in the evening and instead of letting him go to a hotel I had him as a bed fellow as the bed is large enough for four. The day has been beautiful and the wind NW. A M^cLellan torch light made the night hideous with their noise. I received a letter from Serg^t Smith Vaughn Co "G" 59^th Regt. They are near "Poplar Grove Church" all well I wrote a long letter of eight pages of large letter paper in answer to it

Friday, November 4, 1864.

Captain Potter and I passed a comfortable night and both of us had good appetites for our breakfast. It commenced to rain about 4 O'clock in the morning and it rained till the middle of the afternoon. Captain P. dined with us and left for Roxbury. I was disappointed in the weather as I wanted to go to Burlington. The Union "torch light" had to be postponed till tomorrow night. I agreed to meet the Captain at Mr Dows Drug Store at 8 O'clk in the ev^g but he was not there and did not make his appearance at all during the ev^g so I was forced to go to bed alone. It is all clear and starlight at 10 O'clock and bids fair to have a good day tomorrow in which case I shall go to Burlington Father was weigh'd on Mr Cummings scales yesterday and balanced 124 lbs.

Saturday, November 5, 1864.

It has been a blustery cold day but I started for Burlington. I went up in the 10 O'clock Lowell train to the Watering Station and walked to Woburn Centre. I hired a team at the stable. I left my over coat with Mr Gage to be made over. I found all right at the farm. I went over to the cemetery and found every thing looking neat and trim. The stone for Mother is finished and will be set up the first of the week. I was careless enough to give Mr Nourse my "pass key" instead of the key of the mansion house, so I could not get in when I got home without ringing the bell. A grand Union torch light in the eve^g A fine display. Corp Richardson came to the house direct from the "front" last night but I had not got in. He will probably see me tomorrow.

Sunday, November 6, 1864.

The day opened fine with the wind NW. It was bright and sunny all day though somewhat cool Edw^d walked with Father in the morning and I relieved him in the afternoon. We walked on Harrison Avenue instead of going to Church. Corp N. Richardson Jr. came to see me after breakfast & staid 'till Church time. He is looking well and says that Co "G" is the largest in the Reg^t Thom. Fessenden of my Co. is under guard for desertion. The Union "torch light" last night was a grand affair and a success. The illuminations were very fine especially the Club house on Park St. which was one blaze of light. The view from the common towards Boylston and Arlington Sts was very splendid & grand

Monday, November 7, 1864.

A nasty, muddy, rainy day. Edward drove to Burlington. He started in the rain but found no wet after passing through Winchester. He found every thing all right and got into the rain again on his way home. Father and I made our hour on the common before it began to be very wet. I went to the State House to get my leave extended and Dr Hooker told me that all Officers' and Soldiers' furloughs were extended until the 15^th of Nov. and that he would examine my wound then and put me through. I went to see my old friend Captain J. Henry Symonds of my old Co. 22^d Reg^t. He edits a paper called the "Leader". The Democrats had a torch light in the Ev^g "the last of the Mohicans" as it is "Election" tomorrow. It did not quite come up to the Union demonstration.

Tuesday, November 8, 1864.

Election day and a day of some excitement; but every thing has gone off quietly and orderly. I cast my vote for Lincoln and Johnson in our new Ward room in Mercantile Hall in our Street (Summer). Lincoln is a good ways ahead and is good for another four years. Lieu^t Col. Charles F. Adams came to see us while we were at our dinner to day on his way to the train to go to Quincy. He is looking well and says that things at the front look as if they were going to have ugly work there and he was glad that I was at home, and told me to stay as long as my wound would let me. I came across Captain Potter last Ev^g and brought him home with me to pass the night. The excitement of the day has been most too much for him.

Wednesday, Nov. 9, 1864.

Captain Potter had rather a restless night, but was pretty well this A.M. He left after breakfast to go and meet some engagements. I took the noon train for Newburyport to see Captain Wilder and Serg^t Farr both of Co. The Captain has got his discharge and the Serg^t is at home on a sick furlough. I did not see the Captain but I had a pleasant time with Farr and left for home in the ¼ of 6 O'clock train. Serg^t C. A. Jones of the 59^th came to see me to day. This is the third day of cloudy muddy dirty weather. the wind SW and warm and muggy. "The National Sailors Fair" opens to night at the Boston Theatre. Object to found a Hospital for wounded and disabled volunteer sailors. God bless them.

Thursday, November 10, 1864.

To day is the fourth wet and nasty one. I went to see Mr Munroe the father of Captain Munroe Co "F" 59^th Regt who was killed on the 30^th of July at the charge before Petersburg. We went to the State House together to see about L^t Moody's promotion, he being a prisoner and just heard from. He was put down as missing but is now entitled to promotion to first vacancy. I received a telegraphic despatch from Uncle Sidney Brooks to come to Newport and pass the night and to answer by telegraph. I am going to Newport in the 8 O'clock train tomorrow morning. The wind has been SW I met Captain Potter in the Ev^g and we went to Monitor Hall to see the fun. We also went to the fair.

Friday, November 11, 1864.

Captain Potter and I had a gay time last night and a supper at "Brighams" and turned in together in my bed. I started off for Newport at 8 O'clock. A fine day bright and sunny. Nothing unusual occurred in the cars and I found Uncle Sidney waiting for me with a man to carry my valise for me. We drove about the place after partaking of a hearty lunch. Aunt Fanny was very kind and handsome Harriett Dehon is staying with them. In the Ev^g Dr Mercer came in and two young ladies Miss King ate dinner and spent the Ev^g with us. We played whist and I enjoyed myself very much. We drove to the sea shore and saw the "breaking waves dashing high" if not higher.

Saturday, November 12, 1864.

The sun shone bright through the blinds in the morning and arrangements were made for a drive at ½ after 10; but it clouded up and looked like rain, so it was put off. At ½ after 11 we started Aunt Fanny, Harriett Dehon and I made the party. We drove to the Fort, and to "Batemans" and the point. Saw the sea for we went to see the breakers. It did rain some while we were gone, but we went the rounds. Had an early dinner at ½ after 1 and was driven to the cars by Uncle Sidney, coachman, footman and all, and left Newport at 3 O'clock. I had a splendid time and enjoyed every moment of it. I saw Captain Potter in the Ev^g and brought him home with me to occupy part of my bed. It began to rain in Newport at ½ after 10 A.M. and in Boston at 2 P.M.

Sunday, November 13, 1864.

The first snow storm of the season. It commenced about Church time in the afternoon and continued into the Ev^g. It does not make much on the sidewalks. Captain Potter was my guest for the night. Edward and Father walked out between Churches and Father went all by himself almost the whole time, using no cane as he carried his umbrella over his head. "Monitor Hall" on the Frogpond makes a great show, especially in the Ev^g. A large tent is thrown over the upper end of the pond, in the centre of which is a platform, sodded to represent Fortress Monroe. Cannon are on the Fort. The whole thing is a representation of the fight between the Monitor and the Merrimac. The proceeds go to the Sailors Fair.

Monday, November 14, 1864.

The trees were covered with snow this morning and it looked quite winterish. I walked with Father first to Dr. Geo. Keatons in Exeter Place for advice and then down Beacon to Arlington St and back home. It was "Ministers' meeting" and they met in Father's Library at 11 O'clock. Captain Potter staid with me last night and bid us farewell. I went to the cars and saw the last of him for a season. He reports at Bedloe's Island N.Y. It has been cloudy and cold all day but at night the moon and the stars came out bright. I went with Father to see Aunt Wales and left him there. I called for him at 9 O'clock. He was happier for going and it gave Ellen a respite. I saw Serg^t Jones at the State House. He is in a fair way of getting a commission in the 61^st Reg^t and getting transferred

Tuesday, November 15, 1864.

The second snow storm of /64 began at 3 O'clock P.M. and it was still "going at it" at 10 O'clock. It will not amount to more than slop. The morning was fine and bright, the wind NW. According to orders I went to the State House to have Dr Hooker examine my wound. Orders came from the "War" Department to have all Officers & Soldiers who were able to go to the "front" and they could not give me an extension at the State House. I procured 3 "blanks" of Dr Hooker and got Dr E. Reynolds to fill them out & his signature "sworn to" before a Justice of the Peace giving me an extension of 20 days from to day. I sent one copy to Col. Colburn, one to Adj^t Gen^l L. Thomas, and kept one myself. A 5¢ stamp on each. The Drs call my wound a sloughing ulcer

Wednesday, Nov. 16, 1864.

I went to walk with Father this morning but the sidewalks were slippery with snow and ice and the wind was "raw" and biting so we made our walk short as Father could not get exercise enough to keep him warm. I took him to the barber to get his shave and then into Walker and Wise publishing house. The rooms of the Unitarian Association are there. I went to the Ass^t Quarter Masters Office and got a list of prices of uniform for privates. I went into the Apollo Gardens in the evening to see what sort of a place it was. The room was filled with Germans all men with one or two exceptions and all at work drinking "lager". A stage is at one end of the room where they have theatricals. Admission 1.00 The room is filled with cigar smoke and I have not got a small quantity in my clothes.

Thursday, November 17, 1864.

Edward went to Burlington to day. He drove the "General" up and left him there for the winter. He called at Gage the tailor's for my coat but it was done. Gage is going to send it down by express. I walked with Father this morning as far as the "Gass House" on the neck. Uncle Eph. overtook us as he was taking his walk and joined us. Ellen went to the funeral of Miss Tebbitts and I was with Father untill dinner time. The wind was W in the forenoon but it got into the SW and S in the afternoon. It clouded up towards night and rained a little. It does not promise a very fair day tomorrow. I got my boots from the shoemaker's yesterday but I can't wear them yet. I wrote a letter to Col. Colburn to day on account of Cap. Geo. W. Fields 59^th Reg^t

Friday, November 18, 1864.

Contrary to my usual custom I read the paper to Father instead of dressing my wound, and the consequence was that Edward went to walk with him as Father got ready before I did. Edward generally reads the paper to him and that gives me time to get ready by 9 O'clock. The day has been dark and dismal and the weather for a week ago last Monday has been all alike damp and cold. A public reception was given to Cap. Winslow of the "Kearsarge" at the Music Hall this P.M. speeches &c and the great organ. In the Ev^g speeches, songs, organ, contributions &c in aid of the Mass. State relief agency for soldiers. I had a seat on the platform in the Ev^g The hall was crowd with a most attentive audience. Gov Andrew presided. A good pile of greenbacks were put into the ladies baskets.

Saturday, November 19, 1864.

I took my usual morning walk with Father, but he did not walk as long as he generally does on account of seeing the Dr who was coming to see him in the forenoon. I met Captain Wilder and Major Ezra P. Gould formerly Captain in the 59^th Reg^t I invited Captain Wilder to dine with me. He had to hurry off to the Maine depot to take the cars for Newburyport. I went to see a friend of mine in the Ev^g and played "Ukre". The sun has not been out to day and the wind has been SW. I had a letter from Captain Potter to day from Bedloe's Island Hospital. He had to sleep on the floor of the boat, it was so crowded. He hopes to be sent to the "front" soon. I shall answer his letter on Sunday. Lieu^t Milward of our Reg^t is going to resign. He is play'd out

Sunday, November 20, 1864.

Cloudy with the wind SE. Father walked out alone this morning and finished his walk at the Church door. The lower story of the new Post Office building on the corner of Summer and Chauncey Sts was filled with men busy packing up Thanksgiving dinners for the soldiers; as I went to Church a large express wagon was standing before the door, ready for a load. Adams & Co. have offered to take all boxes &c free of charge. I wrote a letter to Captain Potter to day. I went with Father to hear Dr Putnam of Roxbury at the Hollis St Church. a fine discourse. Father says that Doctor Putnam is the greatest preacher he ever heard in this country or in any other. It was raining a little when we came out of the Church at 9 O'clock P.M. It feels like a storm.

Monday, November 21, 1864.

"This weather beats all." It is two weeks to day since this wet and dirty weather commenced and we have had just one bright day out of the lot and that day was the 11^th of this month a week ago last Friday. This morning was the darkest we have had, and it has rained hard all day. I went to Quincy Adams, a place just beyond Quincy Centre to carry a bundle and letter for Mr Baxter of our 59^th Band to his Father and family. Father walked out to day all by himself with his umbrella over his head and no cane. Edward went with him as far as the common but he came home alone after walking all around the Public Garden and the Common. After this it will be a "common" thing for him to do.

Tuesday, November 22, 1864.

The wind shifted during the night and the sun was shining into my room in the morning. It has been a beautiful day, mild and sunny. I met Col. Geo. Clark Jr on Washington St. to day. He has a recruiting office on Sudbury St. I sat with him some time. I lost my Masonic pin. I miss'd it this morning. I have hunted for it everywhere. I went into the Sailors fair this afternoon after dinner and saw the big "ox" who weighs 4000 lbs. He is a splendid animal all white. I left my pistol to be silver plated at Mr G. D. Dows. It is going to be done on "honor". Father walked out alone to day and called upon Rev Rufus Ellis and went to the barber for a shave. I wrote a letter to L^t Bearse yesterday and another to my servant George to day

Wednesday, Nov. 23, 1864.

The day has been breezy with a good deal of sun and some cloudy. I took the horse cars (Oak St) and went to see Col. Colburns wife in Dale St. Roxbury. I offered to take any package or letter she might like to send to her husband. I walked back and called to see my old school teacher Geo. Fowle at 80 Springfield St. I saw our Color bearer at the State House, who had just come home with the colors of the Reg^t. They are badly used up and will have to be stitched a little before they will hold together to be placed with the other flags around the pillars. I sat a few minutes with Col. Clark. The wind has been NW. It is star light at 6 O'clock P.M. Last I went with Father to Aunt Wales in the Ev^g and called for him at ½ after 9

Thursday, November 24, 1864.

A day of "Thanksgiving and Praise" the National Thanksgiving proclaimed by the President of these United States for victories gained and for the blessings of Almighty God vouchsafed to us. It has been a beautiful day, clear and cold, it being the coldest morning that we have had the glass indicating 25°. I saw a number of little boys on skates on a small puddle of water. Father and Ellen Edward and I all took the horse cars and rode out to Thomas new house to see the baby christened. The little fellow behaved very sweetly and is named Paul Revere after his uncle the Major. We had our fat turkey all by ourselves at 4 O'clock and a fine fellow he was. I went to a concert at the Music Hall given by the principal artists of Castle and Campbells English opera troop Castle has a fine tenor voice. Campbell is a baritone not of the first order. Miss Stockton is a stick.

Friday, November 25, 1864.

The thermometer this morning stood at 33° and the wind was NW. It has been a bright day and mild. I went over to Charlestown in the forenoon to see my friend and fellow soldier in the old 22^d Reg^t John Foster. Ellen and I spent the Ev^g with Mr & Mrs Hubbard (N.D.) They had got a telegraph from Aaron at Halifax: all well. a fine trip and no sea sickness. I saw Father to the Lowell Institute, and Edward went for him. My over coat came from the tailors the other day. It was drawn for me by a cavalry man at Readville and I have had it altered over to fit me. It will cost me about twenty doll. and I could not get one made less than $75. and this is just as good to knock about in as a more expensive one

Saturday, November 26, 1864.

The wind has been W to day and the thermometer stood at 31° in the morning. The day has been mild and sunny but it clouded over about dusk and sprinkled a little at night. I took the horse cars at ¼ after 4 O'clock in the afternoon, and went to Medford. I called on Rev^d Charles Brooks and found the family well and in good spirits. I came back the same way that I went and got home by ½ after 11 O'clock. It began to rain about 11 O'clock. I saw Charles Burrill the Uncle of Lieu^t Burrill of my Regt. at Youngs Hotel to day at 1 O'clk He has heard nothing from the Lieuts baggage. Lieu^t Burrill was killed at the battle on the North Anna river on the 24^th of May/64. He was just in front of me when he was killed instantly by being shot through the head

Sunday, November 27, 1864.

Another mild day, cloudy and damp. It looks as if it was going to rain right down every minute. It did not rain any. The wind has been SE. We had the Rev^d Mr Hall of Dorchester to preach for us to day. I called upon Aunt Susan Brooks in the evening and passed a very pleasant hour. Saw Mrs Hooker looking as charming as ever. Ellen sent a box of clothes and so forth to Nat yesterday at Kinston Mass. She also wrote him a letter which was sent by mail. I must write the little fellow a long letter before I go back to the army. If nothing happens to prevent, I shall leave home for the "front" a week from tomorrow to try my luck again.

Monday, November 28, 1864.

The thermometer this morning indicated 39° and the wind has been a little N of W. I went to the State House in the forenoon to see if the colors of the 59^th Reg^t were hung upon the column but they were not. no promotions last week in the 59^th I went to see J. C. Palfrey the post master of Mass. with a member of my old Reg^t the 22^d Lieu^t Kinsley, who has applied for a position as clerk in the Post Office Department. I think he will get it as Mr Palfrey looks favorably on his case, and has placed his name near the head of the list. I got my pistol to day, all silver plated and ready for action: and the rust will have no action on it now price $3.50. I played "Muggins" & Ukre last night and had oysters and ale.

Tuesday, November 29, 1864.

A cloudy day now a days is a very common, and a very dirty thing. The streets are nasty, and the dresses of the women sweep over your boots and away goes your polish. this AM the thermometer stood at 50° and the wind has been SW. Charlestown saw a great day in the "water celebration" which was a fine show. The rain did not fall and every thing passed of quietly. There were some very pretty illuminations in the Ev^g until 9 O'clock & a very pretty fountain it is. It was playing in the shape of a "fan" I went to Medford in the Ev^g to see Mr. P. G. Hall and family. I called upon Miss Lucy Osgood and saw my old friend Harriett Caldwell. Miss Lucy sent a Representative Recruit.

Wednesday, Nov. 30, 1864.

The morning was cloudy and though ~~was~~ cloudy ~~but~~ the day open'd bright and sunny and the wind was SW. The thermometer was 55° this morning and the sun came out during the day and it was quite warm. The 60^th Regt. Mass. Mass. Vet. Vols. arrived home to day and they made a good show on the common. it was the only Regt. that I had seen march by the drum & by the bugle alternately. Edward went to Burlington to day and paid for my coat $9.00. I bought a diary for 65¢ yesterday and paid $1.00 for it instead of 5.00 last year. Uncle Ephraim dined with Father to day.

Thursday, December 1, 1864.

The first day of Dec. opened fair and bright and a little cooler, the thermometer being 45°. The wind has been NW. I went to the Pay masters this but they were all out of funds a notice being stuck on the outside of the door to that effect. I am sorry for I am short and would like the money. I went to a small party in the Ev^g and played Battledoor and shuttle-cock nearly all the time, with the exception of "Simon says" and three games of "Ukre". I met James Fletcher Serg^t Major of the 56^th Reg^t to day. He is going on to join his Reg^t in the same train with me. It will be nice to have a companion. John B. Babcock Esqr. made me a present of a pair of 1^st Lieuts Regulation straps to day and I had them sewed on. We were boys together and had not seen each other for over 20 years.

Friday, December 2, 1864.

It has been a fine day, and a delightful feeling one. The thermometer stood at 36° and the wind NW. I received a letter from Pat. M. Roe at Portsmouth Grove Hospital R.I. & answered it. It was about his descriptive list. He said it was all right except that it did not state that he was a Veteran. I told him that his "Discharge" would show if he had it with him. I sent one of my photographs to Miss Lizzie Brooks at Medford. I called to see Aunt Ellen last Ev^g but found no one at home, Peter having gone out to dine, and Sheppard and his Mother were out. It turned out that they spent the Ev^g at our house but I did not see them, as they left before I got home. It began to rain at about 10 O'clock P.M. It looks like nasty weather

Saturday, December 3, 1864.

"A north easterly rain storm began early this morning and the glass has stood at 46° since sunrise". So says the Transcript. I wore my thick army boots to day and I can walk quite comfortably in them. I went to Cambridge Port this forenoon to the "Union recruiting Office" to see Major^? Thomas J. Stevens to see if he had any word to send to Lieu^t Smith of the 59^th. I did not see him but I left a note for him. I went to the transportation office to see if I could get to Washington free but found that I couldn't but Mr Barnard Cap & AQM gave me an order to go through at Government rates I paying for same. I got my gold pen repointed to day. I left my pistol with Mr Lovell in Dock square to be taken to pieces and cleaned.

Sunday, December 4, 1864.

The stars came out at ½ after 9 O'clock last night and it was quite bright an hour after. The morning opened with the sun shining and the thermometer was about 45°. I went to church for the last time this season and heard Rev. Mr Rufus Ellis both parts of the day. I went to Roxbury in the "Oak Street" horse cars between churches and called upon the wife of my Col. Joseph Colburn to see if she did not have a package to send to her husband. I met Seignor "Rudolphson" in the cars and called upon a friend before going to church in the afternoon. Nannie gave me a "photograph" of little Gorham which I placed in my album

Monday, December 5, 1864.

I awoke this morning in good spirits and ate a hearty breakfast. The thermometer stood at 35° and the wind has been NW. I had a good deal to do this forenoon getting ready to go back to the army. Thomas and wife dined with us to day and Thomas & Edward saw me to the cars, each taking his turn at carrying my valise. I had a seat by the side of Mr J. Henry Bennett who is with Holbrook &c No 12 Summer St. Boston. He went with me as far as N.Y. He was kind enough to offer me a berth in his state room which offer I of course accepted and turned in about ½ after 11 O'clock. Serg^t Maj Fletcher did not go on with me as he delayed packing up.

Tuesday, December 6, 1864.

I passed a comfortable night & had a good sleep in the spare bed of the state room of my new friend Mr Bennett. We took the steamer Metropolis and arrived from Newport at New York about ½ after 6 O'clock A.M. Mr Bennett was kind enough to go with me and show me the way to the Jersey City Ferry. I took the cars at 10 instead of 8 O'clock as I thought I should and arrived in Baltimore at about 8 P.M. We reached Phil^a at 2 O'clock. We had to change cars a good many times and got to Washington at ½ after 10 O'clock P.M. I put my things behind the counter of the U.S. Hotel and went and got an oyster stew &c and turned in. The cars did not stop long enough to let me get anything to eat after leaving N.Y.

Wednesday, Dec. 7, 1864.

I pass'd a comfortable night & came down to breakfast by 8 O'clk. I went to the Pay master's at 10 O'clock to see if I could get my pay for Nov. He was not allowed to pay me, as an order was out to pay only Officers and men who were discharged from the service or paroled prisoners. As I wanted the money, being short, Major W. D. Wheeler let me have $90.00. I signing a paper certifying that he had lent me the money, and authorising him to deduct the amount from my pay when the Reg^t was paid off. I called on H. A. Wise in the Ev^g and found him and his wife at home, she having come in from Boston yesterday. I saw my servant George and every thing is all right for a start to City Point tomorrow.

Thursday, December 8, 1864.

I turned in at an early hour and slept well. The first thing I did was to go to Adams Express Office and enquire for my valise. It had come and was going to the front free of extra charge. I was going to have it sent to the Quarter Master any way, but I expected to pay for it. I went to the Gov^t Warehouse to see about a box for Corp Kelly of the 22^d Regt but the baggage had all been delivered over to Qr. M. Royce. I got transportation for myself & servant. I left in the mail boat at 3 O'clock P.M. and got a state room with another man for 75¢ a piece. I played 23 games of "old sledge" and when we wound up they were 17 games ahead. One of the party had a bottle of whiskey

Friday, December 9, 1864.

I went "shares" in a state room with a man by the name of J. E. Togard of the Philadelphia House Washington SE corner of 8^th & D Sts. I slept pretty well but the James T. Brady rolled a good deal & a "breaker" struck her about 2 O'clock in the morning and spoilt my first nap. This A.M. I played 12 games of "High low Jack" and beat by one game. The boat did not arrive at City Point until ½ past 7 O'clock, it being due at 3. As it was so late and snowing hard I concluded to stay on board all night at "Bermuda Hundred" and go back in her to the "point" when she returned in the morning. I played a number of games of Ukre in the afternoon and beat. Gen^l Ord is on board. We left Fortress Monroe at 10 O'clock very cold and cheerless on the boat

Saturday, December 10, 1864.

The boat left "Bermuda Hundred" at about 9 O'clock A.M. & arrived at "City Point" in an hour. I was lucky enough to meet a friend with a two horse wagon, who kindly gave me a "lift" to the Hospital. I reported to Dr M^cDonald Surgeon in Charge. I am at present in my old quarters awaiting orders. Captain H. H. Buttrick of Co A 59^th Reg^t is here and Cap. Cartwright of the 56^th Reg^t occupies the next bed to me. We have a mess for the Officers at 75¢ a day, and live pretty well. Serg^t A. Farr first Serg^t Co "G" 59^th is here "ward master" of Ward O. I spent the Ev^g with Serg^ts Farr & Carter. Bro. Ed. Foster "Commissariat", gave me a drink of whiskey. Wooden buildings are going up for winter quarters, and a large dining hall for the men

Sunday, December 11, 1864.

I turned in about 10 O'clock and had a comfortable night. I ate a hearty breakfast and had a good appetite. George cut my hair as close as he could to my head, with the new shears that Bro. Thomas made me a present of on the day I left home. The report is that we have torn up nine miles of the South Side R.R. but it needs confirmation. Another report is to the effect that the 5^th A.C. is in trouble and one half of each Regt in our Brigade have gone to help them; not generally credited in "polite circles". It is cold to day and it looks as if it might clear off colder. It is very icy and the ground is covered with snow. The ever green trees are loaded down with snow and ice. I found my gold Masonic pin that I lost in the left breast pocket of my vest yesterday wasn't I glad.

Monday, December 12, 1864.

I went to bed about ½ after 9 O'clock last night It was clear and cold and the wind blew like fury in so much that I thought the tent would blow down as the funnel of the stove did. I came near freezing my feet, and I had hard work to keep warm. I called upon Dr. E. B. Dalton Chief Medical director of this Hospital. He was glad to see me & we had a good talk. I sent George to the "Point" to get my Masonic pin mended, and I feel more at home with it pinn'd on to my vest. I spend my time to some advantage with Bro. Foster & Dick Kean of our Band, and George Reynolds of the 58^th Mass. cook for the stewards mess. It is going to be another cold night.

Tuesday, December 13, 1864.

I slept warm last night & felt pretty well this morning. I went to the "Point" to see if my valise had come from Washington by express, but no freight had been express'd since the 1^st of Dec. Good news from the front: 15 miles of the South Side R.R. have been torn up and 70,000 troops are holding the road. The 9^th A.C. are holding 17 miles of line 6 miles from here before Petersburg. It is cloudy and looks like rain. The Appomattox froze over Sunday night clear to the channel. pretty fair for the Sunny South. Heavy firing by gun boats was heard up the river last night. James river

Wednesday, Dec. 14, 1864.

It rained a little in the night but it came out clear in the morning. George went to the "Point" to day and went to Adams Express Office but found that no freight had been sent. The day has been pleasant, and warm, and we had baked beans for dinner & baked Indian pudding. I wrote my first letter home to day to Bro. Edward. Every thing is quiet at the front, but things are working well for our side. Winter quarters are no where and the "Johnnies" will not have any rest for the soles of their feet and their souls despair of ever accomplishing the feat of gaining their Independence. "So mote it be" Union forever

Thursday, December 15, 1864.

A splendid moonlight night and a comfortable sleep. Capⁿ Buttrick got his papers about 10 O'clock P.M. and leaves for home in the "Mail boat" tomorrow on a "leave of absence" of 20 days. Cap. Buttrick and I went to the Point this forenoon. No freight yet by Adams Express. We each bought a 9^th Corps badge, and had it sewed on to our hats. It is very muddy here, and there is no use to polish our boots. Heavy firing at the front nearly all night. My new ("bullion") badge cost one dollar, and a quarter for sewing it on. It looks gay on the side of my hat. I do not feel so well as I did when I came back here: food oppresses me & I feel "loggy"

Friday, December 16^th, 1864.

Cap Buttrick was up betimes arranging his toilet previous to his departure from among us. A paper (upright) collar, boiled shirt, shiny boots et cet e ra. All of us went down to the boat to see him off, Cap Cartwright and myself enjoying the privilege of riding with him in the ambulance. L^t Fletcher of the 56^th Regt M.V.V. went home from this tent just before I came back. He is Bro. to Jim Fletcher "Serg^t Major" of the same Reg^t. I bought a 9^th Corps badge for my friend Foster of our band Commissariat of this Hospital. Adams has received a load of freight but the "Corps" freight is at Fortress Monroe, and will be here soon

Saturday, December 17, 1864.

The "long roll" was beaten last night and we could hear the shouts of a "charge". The 18^th N.H.Vols. close by here in camp were ordered out and started for Butlers old grounds after breakfast I received my "papers" discharging me from the Hospital and my board bill which I "cashed" 14.50 for 8 days. They did not reckon the day I came nor the day I go away, so I am three meals in. I went to the Point this A.M. my baggage is all right and it will be sent to the Q.M. of the Regt. I left City Point in train that starts at 5 O'clock P.M. but it did not get off till 6 O'clock. It was dark when I got to "Meads" Station and I lost my way and was taken in by Cap Saunders of the 209^th Reg^t. P.V. and I turned in about 9 O'clock. I shall take daylight tomorrow to find my Regt.

Sunday, December 18, 1864.

I had an undisturbed nights rest in the officers tent of Co. A. 209^th P.V. and slept with 2^d Lieu^t Boyer. I ate breakfast with the Captain and his Lieuts. and left their hospitable quarters to find my Reg.

I reported for duty to Col. Colburn in the forenoon. A covered way leads down to the trenches from Head Quarters, and it is unsafe for any one to show himself in open ground. We are close to the Rebs our pickets being only about 200 yards apart, within speaking distance. It is very muddy here. I slept in the "bomb proof" with Lieu^ts Jenks Smith and Bearce. I made up my bed on the ground floor of the "house". We are going to put up a wall tent in front of the "bomb proof" and then we shall have more room. I board with the Officers mess at 40¢ a day. George has a chance to make some money, shaving &c. I found a letter from Sister Ellen and one from Rev. Rufus Ellis, also one from Pat. M. Roe from Portsmouth Grove Hospital

Monday, December 19, 1864.

I had a good nights rest though it was a pretty hard "couch" and my bones ached a trifle in the morning but we have to take things as they come and think ourselves fortunate if we have any place where to lay our head over night and a cover over us. We did a considerable digging and chopping, and succeeded in adding a fly tent to our bomb proof and shall have a little more room. A cannonade open'd this P.M. and the air was full of flying shot and sounding shell. It was a pretty sight to witness the manning of the guns on our side and we could distinctly see the shell when it left the "mortar" and track its course through the air until it burst directly over the rebel fort. I never a shell in the air before and would not believe it if I had not seen it with my own eyes. Report is that Gen. Butler has taken Wilmington N. C.

Tuesday, December 20, 1864.

We began on our fire place and chimney this A.M. and got one of the Regt. who is a mason by trade to build it for us. The boys dug up the bricks in the night and brought them down this morning from behind our tent where there was an old cellar hole. We could not get them in the day time as the Johnnies shot at us and they fire very carelessly. The chimney draws finely I am detailed for "picket" and report at 5 O'clock P.M. I had 29 men 1 Serg^t and 3 Corps and we relieved the other picket at about 7 O'clock it being dangerous to expose our persons in the day time. We had to go through a covered way to the "picket line" which is a deep trench with a breastwork for each post about 100 feet apart. The rebel line is within calling distance and conversation is held with one another from one line to the other.

Wednesday, Dec. 21, 1864.

On picket all last night and all day to day, being relieved by L^t Smith my tent mate at about ½ after 6 O'clock P.M. I had a tough time of it as it commenced raining about 11 O'clock last night and rained steadily until the same hour this A.M. when it held up but began again in the middle of the P.M. and it was showery the rest of the day. My pickets were flooded out their pits the water in the trench being nearly 3 feet deep. I got wet through, the water getting into my boots over the tops. I did not sleep a wink and had to keep moving to keep warm, the wood being so wet that it would not burn. It seems as if all the bones in my poor body were vying with each other to see which one could ache the most. I was glad enough to get back to my quarters, have some hot tea and toasted bread and butter and go to bed. Our bomb proof isn't proof against water, and it was dropping on us all night. George washed my feet and put on a pair of clean stockings

Thursday, December 22, 1864.

I was excused from turning out at 5 O'clock in the morning and stand in the trenches until ½ an hour after daylight as I have just come from picket. We have to do this every morning the men being deploy'd behind the breastworks to guard against surprise. Lieu^t Bearce and myself assisted by my servant George built a double bed in our new apartment and Lieuts Jenks and Smith occupy their old bed in the "bomb proof". A "double bedded room" is not to be "sneezed at" in the army. My army valise was brought along to day and every thing was all right. Corp Leonard Co "G" 59^th Mass. Inf. had a box come to day containing nothing but liquor Lieu^t Bearce and I made a call upon the Co in their "bomb proof" and the "boys" were gay and festive &c &c &c

Friday, December 23, 1864.

I turned into my new bed and it was by no means a "bed of roses". It was not too hard, and it was long and wide enough, but it was a deuced cold night and I came near freezing; as it was I had the "chills" or "shakes" all the A.M. and sat almost in the fire, but it was of no use my bones shook all over and the "cracker box" on which I placed my feet rattled on the ground. I was detailed as Senior Officer in the trenches, and reported to Cap. [?] at 12 M. and was relieved in turn by Lieut Cotting at 12 Mid night. Some one is mean enough to steal the top logs of the breastwork for firewood. also the "corduroy" which we built to walk on to keep us out of the mud. I went to bed at ½ after 12 O'clock. The weather is clear and cold.

Saturday, December 24, 1864.

I went to bed in good season and had any quantity of clothes on our bed as a box of dress coats belonging to Co. "G" arrived here this P.M. & Lieu^t Bearce and I put them on the top of the bed clothes so as to be sure and sleep warm enough. It is a fact that the more the man has on his bed in the shape of clothes the less sleep he gets. It is so heavy that it made my bones ache & I could hardly turn over. I was relieved by L^t Smith to day at 12M as senior officer of the trenches L^t Cotting and I were detailed to take charge of a "gang" of men to build a "corduroy". Some pieces of the corduroy were found to be missing this morning, having been stolen during the night for firewood

Sunday, December 25, 1864.

A Merry Christmas for all hands. We had roast turkey for dinner and roast pork, cranberry sauce and green peas were also on the table and were much relished by our invited guests Lieuts DeGraff and Van Buskirk of the 14^th N.Y. Heavy Artillery. Van Buskirk was Brigade Officer of the day and knows his business. Whiskey rations for the men and any quantity of the ardent for the Officers who were a happy but not a noisy crowd. The church bells are ringing for worship in Petersburg the spires of which are in plain sight. Deserters are coming into our lines every night and seem much pleased to find themselves safe and sound in the land of Freedom. Our dinner hour was a fashionable one 4 O'clock and we had no supper.

Monday, December 26, 1864.

I slept well after my dissipation of yesterday and arose at ¼ to 5 O'clock & waded through the mud half boot leg deep for it rained during the night and ran down upon our devoted heads. I bought a beautiful camp chair of the Sutler to day. I called upon Dr Durant surgeon 100^th Pen. Vol. who is now acting as surgeon for my Regt. Dr Ingalls our Surgeon has gone home on a leave of absence & Dr Nortoni our 2^d Ass^t Surgeon is away. Dr Gilfillan was wounded in the leg last July and has got his discharge. I found Dr Durant a good fellow for he gave me some sherry wine and some egg-nogg. We are busy now making our "pay" rolls, ordnance accounts &c I wrote a letter to Sister Ellen to day and received three papers from Edward one Transcript and two Journals. It has been damp all day.

Tuesday, December 27, 1864.

I had a letter from the Rev^d Nath' Richardson Chaplain of the 36^th Regt Mass. Inf. about his son Nath^l Jr. who is a Corp^l in my Co. and is at present in the Hosp^l here sick. I went over to the hosp^l & saw both Father & son. I wrote & spoke a good word for the Corp^l as he is to be examined for a discharge soon. I called to see Dr Durant on my way home and got some pills for indigestion. I am detailed for picket to report at 5 O'clock P.M. It is just a week ago to day that I was on before. It is hard work for the men to have to do the duty requisite here. On "picket" one night, camp guard the next, work detail the next day and have to get up at ¼ to 5 O'clock A.M. and stand at arms 'till ½ hour after daylight and then have inspection. L^t Cotting was on picket last night & I relieved him.

Wednesday, Dec. 28, 1864.

On picket. It was a singular night star light till 10 O'clock then cloudy, and rain at 11 O'clock. Stars out again then out of sight and more rain at 2 O'clock. the same performance was repeated and rain again at 5 O'clock A.M. The sun came out after a while and the first part of the day was beautiful and warm, but it clouded up in the P.M. and rained nearly all the rest of the day and I got wet again. It was very muddy, but where will a worn out soldier not sleep. My picket guard actually snoozed while the rain poured I was complimented by the Officer of the guard for having the best line that he had seen for some time We had a considerable shelling in the P.M. & each shell burst nearly over our heads but the pieces were thrown forward over our camp and a number of the 14^th N.Y.H^yA^y were killed & wounded They were thrown from the "Goose neck" battery (rebel) situated on the opposite bank of the Appomattox.

Thursday, December 29, 1864.

I did not rise at ¼ before 5 O'clock this A.M. as I came off from "picket" last Ev^g and felt rather stiff and sleepy; one officer is enough to inspect the men and Lieu^t Bearce is got his promotion and is in Co. "G". Lieu^t Cotting was detailed as Officer of the trenches after coming off from "picket" last night; after getting wet through he was relieved by Lieu^t Pindar. He (Cotting) got his discharge and was "mustered out" to day. I relieved Lieut Pindar as senior officer of the "trenches" at 12M to day. I went to see Dr Durant and got some more of his tonic pills he treated me to a drink of "Apple Jack" which was very nice and very strong. Coombs our Regimental shoemaker sewed up a few cracks in my boot leather and made a good job. Lieu^t Bearce floored over a part of our tent with split logs. George gathered some pine boughs for our bed

Friday, December 30, 1864.

Lieut Bearce was on the trenches from after dinner till 12 O'clock at night when he went to bed and I was on duty from that time 'till 12M to day and was relieved by Lieut F. Z. Jenks one of my tent mates. A box of guns and equipments &c belonging to Co. "G" which were left at Alexandria Va. came to the Regt. to day: in it were about a dozen woolen blankets which Lieut Bearce and I laid violent hands on and made our bed softer and to keep them safe from thieving hands. We also stole a march on Sergt Benj. Simond of Co. H. and captured a lot of wood for our fire which he had got ready for his Co. Simonds got the good of it though, as he was making out the rolls for his Co by our fire. The rainy season has set in and instead of snow and ice we have rain and mud. We must be relieved soon if they want to have any men left in the 59^th Regt

Saturday, December 31, 1864.

The last day of the week the last day of the month, the last day of the year. A cheerless day, and cold. It began to snow by 10 O'clock A.M. and it showed all the PM The Regt was "mustered" for pay this forenoon I was mustered as a 2^d Lieu^t there not being a vacancy for a 1^st Lieu^t. There was a reunion of the Officers of the 59^th at the Head Quarters of Cos. B. C. E. &c and a very pleasant time we had. "Tom and Jerrys" were the rage, and we drank "the old year out and the New Year in" and then got in to bed by ½ after 11 O'clock. This closes my diary for 1864 and I have written as much of what has transpired of any importance as I could get into so small a compass for each day. I shall begin my New Year tomorrow, and hope it may be my fortune to be out of the service before it is half gone Farewell 1864

Memoranda.

Tuesday May 17 borrowed of Corp Geo. E. Everson Paid 3.00

Saturday May 21 borrowed of

Corp W^m Severance 1 C Sugar .15

" " " Paid

Hume carried my Haversack

Pulsifer carried my Knapsack

Adams " "

Ambulance N^o 188 Div 1 21 Mass

June 5^th I owe Mathis Paid 15

" 6^th Lt Clapp debtor to Mathis

for services rendered $37.00

Hume owes Scott 6.00

Willaird " 2.50

Andrew " 1.25

Cahill " 1.00

Owe Louis Sennick by Hammond 10.15

" McCarthy for sewing on

shoulder straps .50

Memoranda.

Paid

June 30 owe Geo. for 2 lb cheese 1.00

Aug 10 Lent George Mathis $3.00

Dec 8 " " 6.00

Cash Account. January.

April I began to board with the

26^th Company from this date at

$8.00 Eight dollars per month

April

27^th I began to board William

" F. Wentworth with the Company

" from this date to the 14^th May

May

18^th I began to board William

" Scott with the C^o from

" this date to the 7^th of June.

June

7^th I began to board George

" Mathis with the Company

" from this date

" I owe the C^o to June 1^st 9.00

" do for W. F. Wentworth 4.00

" " " William Scott 5.00

Eighteen doll. Total $18.00

for board up to June 1^st

Memoranda.

The date of Fights

May 6 Wilderness 1 man killed

" " 3 " wounded

12 Spotsylvania 1^st L^t killed

" " 2 men killed

" " 4 " wounded

18 Spotts Va under grape 3 hrs

24 "North Anna" 3 men wounded

" " 1 man taken prisoner

31 "Pamunkey" morning & afternoon

June 2 no particular name no body

" " hurt

" 3 no particular name ditto

" 6 under grape and canister

" no one hurt—about two hours

" 16 Battle before Petersburg. Our

Regt was under Artillery fire

about two hours. Co "D" had one

man wounded Sergeant

Messer died on the road of

"sun stroke". A fine fellow.

Memoranda.

June 17 Battle before Petersburg, made

a charge on the Rebel works

and captured them. 3 wounded.

Corp. Geo. E. Everson died.

Private Sid^y Allen both legs amp

June 21 In the front pits on advance

line. One man wounded on

the skirmish line M F Fuller

July 6^th Went to Hospital sick. Div Hosp

29 left the Hosp^l for City Point

31 " City Point for Washington.

Aug 8^th Started for Annapolis Hosp Md

Sep6^thleft Annapolis Md for Washington

7^th " Washington for City Point Va.

10^th reported to the Regt for duty

30^th Battle of Poplar Grove Church

" wounded and went to the Hospital at City Point. went home on a "leave"

Oct 9^th and reported to my Regt for duty

Dec 18^th Before and it in full sight of

Petersburg Virginia

Memoranda.

May 28 Private John Kelly C^o "G"

59^th Mass. Vol. U.S.A.H.

York Pa.

June 22^d Carlos A. Helmes and

John Welch signed for

a ½ tent each for me.

" 23 Thomas Connor

" " J. J. Jakes Mark Stekoe

" " Patrick M. Roe U.S.A.

" " Hospital Alexandria Va

" " Head Quarters 2^d Division

DATABASE CONTENT

(12105)

DL1775.001

187

Diaries

1864

Tags: Abraham Lincoln, African Americans, Alcohol, Ambrose Burnside, Amputations, Animals, Artillery, Bounties, Camp/Lodging, Cards/Gambling, Children, Christmas, Clothing, Cotton, Crime, Crops (Other), Death (Home Front), Death (Military), Desertion/Deserters, Destruction of Land/Property, Discharge/Mustering Out, Drilling, Enlistment, Excitement, Family, Fatigue/Tiredness, Fighting, Food, Furloughs, George B. McClellan, George G. Meade, Guard/Sentry Duty, Guns, Home, Homecoming, Hospitals, Hygiene, Illnesses, Insects, Mail, Marching, Medicine, Money, Music, Nature, News, Newspapers, Paroles/Paroled Troops, Payment, Pensions, Philip Sheridan, Photographs, Picket Duty, Prisoner Exchanges, Prisoners of War, Promotions, Railroads, Recreation, Recruitment/Recruits, Reenlistment, Reinforcements, Religion, Robert E. Lee, Sadness, School/Education, Scouting, Ships/Boats, Supplies, Telegraph, Thanksgiving, Ulysses S. Grant, United States Colored Troops, Victory, Weather, Work

People - Records: 1

(4394) [writer] ~ Frothingham, Ward Brooks

Places - Records: 1

(237) [origination] ~ Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts

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SOURCES

Ward B. Frothingham Diary, 1864, DL1775.001, Nau Collection

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People - Records: 1

Places - Records: 1