Rufus L. Hughes Diary
[inside front cover]
 
Lane Guards’ Battery
                        Baldwin County
                                    Alabama
Miss Kittie.
                        Ruf. L. Hughes                                               Miss Annie
Kittie                           Fort Mor
                        Billups
                                                                        Jany. 15th 1862
 
            Ruf                                                                                          Annie
                                                                                                            Annie
 
                                                                        Ruf. L. Hughes
                                                                                    Fort Morgan
                                                                                                Alabama
 
[sideways]
 
W. J. Hughes Gen Chalmers Escort from y[?]busha Co Miss
 
Fort Morgan
            Mobile County
Aug 9th 1861   Mobile Point
                                    Alabama
 
 
                                                                        Miss E. E. Somerville
                                                                                                Columbus
                                                                                                            Miss
A Journal
                                                                                    “Ever of Thee!”
            “Ellen Bayne.”                                                “Can I Forget Thee?”
            “Gentle Annie”                                               “My Hopes Have Departed Forever”
            “Wild Mag!”
                                                            Nov’r 14th 1861
 
Ruf L. Hughes
                                                            Fort Morgan
                                    R. C. Jones                              August 9th 1861
 
                                                            Fort Gaines
                                                                                    Feb’y. 22nd 1862
Nov’r 14th 1861
 
Nov’r 14th 1861.
 
                                                                                                Ruf. L. Hughes
 
 
                                                                                                            l’habit
                        Ruf. L. Hughes
                                    W. J. Hughes Gen Chalmers Escort
                                    March 20th 1865
 
            If I do not survive the wars, some kind friend will greatly oblige a dying soldier by delivering this book to my friends, who will place it into the hands of her I love, as hers that she may be able to look over the days I spent in the service of my country with a more vivid imagination, than she could otherwise. [overwritten: Blank!!!]
                                                                        Ruf L. Hughes
 
[hand pointing to statement above]
A boyish whim
R. L. Hughes
Private
Book-Journal
 
Ruf. L. Hughes
Fort Morgan
            Baldwin County
                        Alabama
 
 
            Ruf L. Hughes
 
 
                                                                        1861                            Ruf L. Hughes.
 
Continuation of Monday August 26th 1861
 
            The scenery of the country along the shore of the gulf was such as I never saw before. It was nothing but sand-hills. The most uneven country I ever saw. It was too poor to produce timber of any size. It was almost entirely covered with scrubby oak from two to six feet high. These oaks seemed to be very old, but could not grow any higher. Some places they were so thick you could not see a foot into them, & they were as smooth on top as if the hand of man had watched & clipped off their uneven branches. The beach all the way was beautiful white sand.
            We travelled till about 81/2 P.M. in the rain aiming to get to the “Lagoun” (a kind of lake) where we had been informed was a house which would have been quite acceptable tonight, but at this time despairing of the house we pitched our camp with nothing but the canopy of heaven to shield & protect us & to shelter our head from the falling rain. Our prospect for a pleasant time was quite gloomy. After some trouble we raised a fire & looked around when we saw it had ceased to rain; but a lowering cloud from the east seemed to threaten us.
            The six of us boys formed three Reliefs to guard our little band. Clauton & I are to watch from 10 to 12 P.M. Jim G. & Dick B. from 12 to 2 A.M. & Dock McK. & Jim C. from 2 to 4 A.M.
            Although this is by far the hardest, roughest time I ever had in my life, still there is something about it I like & much prefer it to Fort Morgan life. If we could have something to render it
 
 
2  August                                                         1861
 
exciting I would like it better than any service the Confederacy could allot me.
            This eve in riding along in silence, as I did most of the time, my whole thought was of her I love. I felt that I was undergoing these hardships in her behalf, which rendered them pleasure rather than otherwise. I felt that I would like for her to know where I was & what I was doing, that I might have her sympathies. Oh! what a blessing on earth for a man to have such an one to love, when he knows she loves him! It is the greatest happiness God gives to man while here below.
Tuesday Aug. 27th
            This morn I was waked at 4 A.M. to start for Perdido river (the boundary between Ala. & Florida). I had quite a refreshing sleep last night. It did not rain any after 9 last night. We got our breakfast & started a little before 6 A.M. & thus far, have not been delayed. The scenery of today is the same as that of yesterday, with but little difference.
            Jim C. killed a fox today—quite a nice little fellow. We did not go far before we found some wild goats. We ran them & shot several times at them, all missing them. I finally ran one down and caught him. I carried it about two miles when we came across some more. Lt. White from Capt Feign’s Co. (I fail’d to mention that he went with us) killed one. We then concuded one goat was sufficient at a time, so I let mine go. Dock McK carried the dead
 
 
August                                                             1861                                                    3
 
one on his horse. We rode on seeing wild goats until about 10 A.M., when we stopped near a pond of fresh water. We stayed there about two hours fed & took dinner. Capt. L. Jim C. & I took the guns, in the meantime, & went out hunting. We saw three deer, but did not get a shot at them. The deer, goats &c. were the only means we had for amusement.
            Our business was to see if we could find any sign of our enemy’s being about the land. We have seen some tracks of men which we did not understand, as there is no settlement in a good many miles of these places. We have not seen the image of a man, neither friend nor foe since we left the Cove. It is the wildest country in which I ever travelled. We came to the Mouth of the Perdido about 2 P.M. We went about two miles up it when we turned to retrace our steps. I did not like that; I felt like we had not done our duty, for it seemed to me that we would see somebody by going a little farther.
            We left the beach & came several miles down the lagoun, where we saw several aligators. We shot at them, but killed none. In the evening late we came across some goats. We shot several times at them, but killed none. it seems that we are all poor shooters. Dick & I caught one apiece; but turned them loose, as we concluded they were more trouble than they were worth. We came back seven or eight miles to the place we rested at dinner, to spend the night. We ar
 
 
4  August                                                         1861
 
rived here about 5 P.M. & fixed up before night. We ate heartily & then retired. As we were in a hollow we thought a guard unneccessary. I went to sleep early, being very tired & sleepy. Jim G. & I put our corn sacks & blankets together & had quite a comfortable bed for the occasion.
Wednesday Aug. 28th
            I was awaked this morn about 5 A.M. I had a fine night’s rest—never slept sounder in my life; but waked up tired. Although I was tired, I had a long day’s ride before me, thro’ which I had to pass. It rained on us the major part of the morn. We came across five goats. After shooting at them several times, Lt. White & Capt. F. killed one apiece. We brought them to the fort—about 15 miles. We stopped & took dinner at the same place we camped the first night after we left the fort. We rested there about two hours.
            Clauton seemed nearly broke down; he slept all the while we were there. We started for the ft. about 12 M., when Dick, Jim & I were behind. Dick & I gathered a good many shells about nine miles from the fort we saw a man (the first we had seen since we left the cove.)
            We questioned him—he appeared to know nothing. He did not (he said) know who was president of the U. S. or C. S. He said he did not know the North & South were at war with each other. We took him, or rather made him take us, to where he lived. He lived with a man on the coast
 
 
August                                                             1861                                                    5
 
of the bay, about a mile from where we found him (on the gulf shore.) The Capt. knew the man with whom he lived, so that freed this fellow from any suspicion. I was sorry, for I hated to return to the fort without reaping any prize for our trouble.
            We reached the Cove about 4 P.M. where we rested about an hour, which was in accordance with my feelings, for I was extremely tired. We arrived to the fort about 6 P. M. I never before was glad to see Fort Morgan but this time I was. I was completely worn out.
            We found a theatre stationed at the fort. After supper, I had no idea of going, but several of our scouting crowd went, and I thought if they could stand to go I could, so I went. There was a large audience, or rather assemby. It was a pretty fair thing, especially for Fort Morgan. I was very sick and could not enjoy it as well as I would have done otherwise. I vomited several times.
            I came back after the show & immediately “piled in” for sleep.
Thursday Aug. 29th
            This morn I slept till after drill, as the Capt. had excused us from all duty until the evening drill. I waked up about half sick and very tired. I did not do scarcely anything,—played a few games of “Uchre” and came out successful as often as I was beat.
            This has been a pretty wet day. I never saw so much rain as we have had for the last week or two.
 
 
6  August                                                         1861
 
            The boat came over today. She brought no war news. Lt. Best, Milt Lofton & Jasper Massey & Ed (our cook) came back from home. Lt. B. bro’t. six new recruits with him. Among them were Bill Holder & Berry Knox. We now have a hundred and four men, besides four com. officers; which makes ours a large company.
            They brought me three letters—one each from cousins Sallie & Mollie G. and one from pa, who was in Mobile. I did not like his coming there and not coming over to see me; but knowing how busy he is, and how much time he would have lost I can excuse him. Jim rec’d. a letter from One who sent her “best-love” to me, which was enough to throw off all burden from my heart. Oh! had I the power to describe my feelings on hearing this news. I give a disinterested man a clear idea of true love!
Friday, August 30th
            This morn I was awakened by Fon B. to attend drill. I was very loth to arise, but did so for and attended drill for the first time in two weeks. I feel very well this morning. After drill I was detailed for guard. I attended guard-mounting and am on the 3rd Relief gar. guard.
            Today is a clear, beautiful, day, and I hope it will remain so for some time.
            This evening a telegraphic dispatch came, stating that Gen. Butler with three frigates & two gunboats, with about 4000 men had attacked our sand-batteries at Cape Hateras, where we had ony about 160 men. After ours fired twenty rounds they surrendered. This is no victory of which the North can truly boast; but I expect
 
 
August                                                             1861                                                    7
 
she will exult greatly over it.
            Last night was a beautiful time stand guard. My time was from 12 to 2 A.M. I had a pleasant time, indulging in meditations on the past, thinking of the present, and painting the future. My whole thought was of her I love. I thought she was enjoying the sweets of Somnus on the downy bed beneath her parental roof, while I was up in the dead of night watching for the foe, who would invade our land and tear apart from us our rights. This made me feel that I was sitting up for her safety, which rendered my task, otherwise irksome, a pleasure.
            After my time was out I soon found a cot and let refreshing sleep take hold of me.
Saturday Aug. 31st
            I this morn was allowed to sleep till breakfast. I ate a hearty meal, and then went & stood my last tour of guard duty. After I was released from guard, I wrote two tolerably lengthy letters: one, to Cousin Mollie G. & one to Sissie Mamie. I told them of my scouting expedition.
            The boat came over at the usual time today; but brought no news. Dock Gregory came over today from home.
            Several yankees came over on a small sail vessel under a flag of truce, from the U. S. Steamer Wyandotte who is the blocading vessel of this port. Their business was with Col. Maury, and must have been very private, for he has not divulged it to his men. Several surmises were made, but all were groundless.
            This evening was the Grand Muster which comes off every two months. It is very tiresome, and takes about two hours.
            Thus another week and month has passed,
 
 
8  September                                                   1861
 
and how many can say they have rightly improved the golden moments that are even now passed into oblivion? have gone to eternity to render in their reports of how they have been abused & how profitably employed.
Sabbath, Sept. 1st 1861
            The beginning of this month recalls to my mind the ordeal through which I passed this day twelve months ago. One year ago today I rode with my “Dearest” from Yank to Bridgeville, and on our way I told her a great many things that required a speedy answers, or painful suspense on my part. I received those replies & they were consoling to my love-sick soul! Oh! how I love to think of my first declaration of love, and be able to recollect the vow of reciprocated love that was spoken from the lips of one whom I love as none other here below!
            Dr. Spillman preached today; but I did not go to hear him, having something else to do. I do not like him as a preacher, for he is a very droll deliverer, and far from a bright genious.
            I spent the greater part of this eve in sleeping.
            The boat came over this eve, but brought no news except that Brig. Gen. Bragg was ordered from Pensacola to Va. & was promoted to General. Capt. Anderson of S. C. was ordered to fill his place, being promoted to Brig. Gen.
Monday, Sept. 2nd
            This morn I was waked early & I attended drill. It was short & easy. Good many of the boys were put on “double duty” for not going to drill, making some angry; but all to no purpose.
            This has been a hot, dull day. Nothing worthy of note has transpired today. We had battalion drill at the usual hour, and all did pretty well. Jim & I took a promenade
 
 
September                                                       1861                                                    9
 
tonight, talking of the ones of our heart. I wonder fifty times a day if my “dearest” thinks of me once while I do of her a dozen times? But the question has never been settled satisfactorily to my mind.
Tuesday September 3rd
            This morn we were awaked by the drum earlier than usual. I felt very bad, and being offered a “dram” I accepted, and it helped me.
            After drill we ate breakfast, of which I heartily partook.
            Today the boat came over, bringing, as usual, no news. Serg. Noland & Jim Noland, also Story came over from home. The Serg. brought me two letters; one, from Sister Mattie, & one from pa. Pa spoke of the incessant rains they had been having “up country.” He said that they had had rains nearly every day for the past month. The cotton is almost an entire failure. The wet weather causing the rust to take it, & the bolls to drop off.
            Dr. Anderson came down on the boat, merely on a visit to the fort. He will return home by tomorrow’s boat. He brought no news of interest from Pickens.
Wednesday Sept. 4th
            This has been a warm, dull day. I was detailed on guard this morn, but the “double-duty” men were sufficient to relieve me, so I was set free. I have done nothing (i.e. in my leisure hours) today but sleep or read the “Scottish Chiefs.” I have been longer reading this book than common. My reason is, there are two others, besides myself, reading it, and half the time I cannot get it when I want to read. It is a splendid work. In it is pictured a perfect a perfect demon in woman’s habit—and also that
 
 
10  September                                                 1861
 
angel-like purity of woman. Lady Helen (the latter picture) is just described to fill the general character of her I love—she is the perfect modesty personified in all the robes of goodness & lovliness. Her patriotism is unequalled. Also the hero of this work (Sir Wm Wallace) is one the second to none on history for his zeal & piety and his inexhaustible patriotism.
Thursday, Sept. 5th
            This morn I was awaked some earlier than usual to attend drill, which I did. After drill I was detailed for guard. At the usual hour (71/2 A.M.) I attended guard-mounting. I was placed on the third relief, Post, No. 12. We were ordered by the Off. of the Guard to stay around the guard-house all day, which order has been pretty closely observed, though I am now away. I have just stood one tour of duty. The boat came over today. Several ladies came over. Jim & I rec’d a long letter from our dear friend Phil, and happy was I to learn he was well and in good spirits.
            He talked as tho’ he had as soon be in Ft. Morgan as not; as our probability now for fight is almost as good as his.
            At 6 P.M. our relief was posted, and the countersign was given us to put to use as soon as it was dark. We stood two hours, when, usually heretofore, we have been standing at this time of the evening only one half hour. Jim was corporal of my relief. We talked till 10 P.M., when we went to sleep. We were awaked at 12 P.M. to stand guard. I stood, and the time, I spent very pleasantly in meditation & thought.
Friday Sept. 6th
            This morn Jim waked me to go to breakfast, after a sleep of four & a half hours. I felt quite refreshed. Ate a hearty meal, and then went
 
 
September                                                       1861                                                    11
 
& stood my last tour of guard duty, which was a half hour at the wharf. After guard-mounting I rubbed & greased my gun, which was getting badly out of order. I failed to mention that the report we heard of Gen. Bragg’s promotion was false. I do not know why such report was circulated; but I guess like a great many other things we hear,—started by someone who has not that proper regard for the truth.
            We had no battalion drill this after-noon, on account of Maury, Bradford, Morgan, Forney & Lanier’s absences—the five leading men of this Reg’t. Foster was next in command, but he did not assume his authority he commanded at Dress Parade. Our new adjutant (McClung) formed the battalion for D. P. He did poorly; but perhaps will do better after more experience. Mark C., Andw. McG. & myself went in a bathing this after-noon, which was quite pleasant.
Saturday, Sept. 7th
            This morn I awoke & found it raining. I was glad, for I knew I would not have to go to drill. I again laid down & slept till late breakfast, which is quite a luxury at this place. At 8 A.M. the usual Saturday morn’s alarm was beaten, when each Co. has to be at its respective battery. Ours is bastion No. 3. We were there but a little while before Col. M. came around. He said nothing of importance to us. Dick, Jim & I went a fishing this morn, for the first time for me since I have been here. We caught several little cat-fish, which were not fit to eat.
            After dinner Dick & I went back, as faithful followers of our this morning’s occupation. We had not long fished before we were made leave
 
 
12  September                                                 1861
 
the wharf for the boat. A few very pretty ladies came over. Lieut. Wells, Ben Wells & Tom Mobley came over from home. They brought me one letter from Coz. Becca, which I think it doubtful I will answer, as she reprimanded me for two or three things in my last, while by criticizing I could find the same faults in hers. I recd. by mail a short letter from “Trip”. He is very unwell at home & does not know when he will be able to return to the fort.
            We had a slight shower this afternoon, but not enough to prevent dress parade; there was no orders read worthy of notice. Six or eight of our boys got on a “spree,” and kicked up quite a row; but, luckily for them, none were sent to the guard-house. It is a shame that men will so disgrace themselves! yet they yield to vile nature so much that they will take the poisonous draft as long as they are able to say “more”, and then with the cup, (that brings premature death), they next their bosom, dies the debased death of the drunkard. +Our flag came over from Mobile today. It is, I think, the prettiest one in the fort. It cost us eighty dollars, and was made by a Miss Brooks of Mobile, who charged us nothing for her trouble. I did not like the idea of a Mobile lady helping us to procure a flag; for it is rather a cut to our Pickens girls.
Sabbath. Sept. 8th
            This morn I again slept till breakfast, when I went and ate a hearty meal of tomatoes & ham. This, with coffee, is just as good a breakfast as I want. We were hurried through our breakfast to attend inspection. We did not more than get out, and had our battalion formed, before it commenced raining so that we were dismissed. We all
 
 
September                                                       1861                                                    13
 
got wet,—so did our new flag! It did not rain long; but still the clouds indicate more rain.
            We are having no preaching today, as Dr. Spillman has gone home on furlough.
            This morn one of Capt. Forney’s men very mysteriously stabbed himself. He was lying in his bunk reading “Biblical Antiquities” when very suddenly he gave a groan, & when they found him he had stabbed himself in his left side. The cause is entirely unknown to any but himself. It is very doubtful whether or not he will recover.
            He has the name of being the most pious man in the co. & this act seems entirely unaccounted for.—The boat came over this after-noon. Nat Mitchell returned from a sick furlough. He now looks very well. Cas M. came over from Mobile. I rec’d. a letter from Fos C. today. He is a good friend of mine; but I cannot like him much on account of the little patriotism he exhibits to exist in his breast. He is remaining at home with no employment to hold him back—nothing in the world to hinder him from making our dear land one more to defend her rights.
            This after-noon all of my associates being asleep leaves me with no one to pass off the time; so I have spent the major part of this time in thought—thoughts of the one I esteem as almost more than human. She is the whole of my thought when I am alone; and when with another she is constantly present in my imagination. She it is, for whom I would willingly die to defend her rights which are in common with that of her & my country! I would like to write something, but my feeble pen is totally unable to do her justice; & an injustice done her would not be an endurable act from
 
 
14  September                                                 1861
 
another to her & then how could I do such a thing myself! The entire aspirations of my soul are but for her. “I only covet to be great, But ‘tis for thee, for only thee!” This I can truly & happily say of her I love.
            Tonight our attention was turned to the top of the walls from the explosion of sky-rockets. Just here I will say, we always run to the top of the walls to see anything of importance. We saw several lights from the blocade vessels,—several different colored lights. It looked a little strange.
Monday, Sept. 9th
            This morn I was awaked very early by Fon B. on account of an alarm brought down by a man from Shell-bank, who said vessels were landing up on the gulf beach. The drum not having been beaten for the alarm, I did not get up. There was great confusion, but I was so sleepy that I did not let it disturb me much.
            This morn when the matter was duly investigated, it proved to be nothing; but the excitement still exists to some extent.
            This is a very warm, sunny day.
            This evening we drilled “Evolutions into line.” We first formed the reg’t. into three battalions of four co’s. each. Col. M. acted Gen, Lt. Col. B. acted Col. of one battalion, and two captains were Col’s. of the other two battalions. I liked it very much, but got exceedingly tired.
            The ladies from the Cove were so frightened by last night’s alarm that a good many of them, are staying here for protection. I think it will all prove to be nothing, although Col. M. & Lt. Col. B. seem to be uneasy.
Tuesday, Sept. 10th
            This is a beautiful, clear morning. It is exceedingly warm, and I fear the whole day will be unpleasantly warm.
 
 
September                                                       1861                                                    15
 
            The regular packet (Gunar) (Bagalay) came over today, bringing F. Kent & his brother as recruits for our company. Lieut. Hurie Austill came over on her. I was very,—very glad to see him. He was just from Richmond Va. where he had got his commission in the Regular Army, and was thence ordered to Ft. Gaines & was on his way there today. I spent about a half hour with him—very pleasantly indeed. The Junior also came over this after-noon on a pleasure excursion. A great many ladies came over—some, very pretty—& some, as ugly as I ever saw.
            This after-noon Lt. Col. B. commanded at battalion drill; nothing new occurring. There was no orders read at dress-parade.
Wednesday, Sept 11th.
            This morning after drill I was detailed on guard. I have attended guard-mounting & a very warm time we did have. Our detail is on the garrison guard today, which is quite agreeable to me. I this morn have written a letter to a young lady for Thos. Luke. He cannot write, so he has to ask friends to do it for him. I have written several letters for him, and take a pleasure in doing so.
            I stood at Col. M’s. bath-house today, to prevent anyone from going in about it. I had a cool time, sitting in his bath-house.
            This has been a very warm, dull day.
            At 6 P.M. our whole relief was placed out to stand two hours. Just at dark the countersign was given us. It is “Hatteras.”
Thursday, Sept. 12th
            This morn I slept until near 61/2 A.M.—my time for going on duty. I stood three quarters of an hour, when I was relieved. While I was eating breakfast guard-mounting came off.
 
 
16  September                                                 1861
 
            Immediately after breakfast Dick & I went down & took a bath. The water was very pleasant, and we had a very nice bathe.
            I am now reading the “Martyr Wife & other tales.” It is a good thing as far as I have gone. I read the Scottish Chiefs nearly through, when I became so attached to Wallace & Helen that I could not read farther on account of its being the very evident that the termination’s would be in their destruction,—& the description of the destruction of such noble, loyal spirits as were these two I cannot bear.
            The boat came over today at its usual time.
            Jno. McG. came back from home. He had been gone a month on a sick-furlough. I was glad to see him. The papers today give an account of a skirmish as taking place on Hall’s Hill (near Arlington Heights) on the 10th inst. We were successful. Killed & wounded one hundred of them—they twenty of us. Nothing else of interest in today’s papers.
Friday, Sept. 13th
            This morning I came very near failing to answer to my name at roll-call for drill. I was not waked until the co. had all fallen in ranks.
            I failed to mention on yesterday that they were commenced taking the unmounted cannons from here to Mobile for the purpose of having them rifled, which is a very good move; for, as we are, our guns will not near do to compete with that of the enemy.
            Today has been the warmest day I ever experienced at this place. Usually there is a pleasant breeze; but nothing of the sort is stirring today. This after-noon the steamer “Arrow” came over. I suppose her business was to get these old Spanish cannons to renew & fix over again. Our bat. drill was cut off short on account of the boat.
 
 
September                                                       1861                                                    17
 
            She is a regular gun-boat,—guarding the coast between Mobile & New Orleans. She had about thirty well-armed men, & one cannon (a 32-pounder.)
Saturday, Sept. 14th
            This morning after breakfast & guard-mounting, the alarm was beaten, when we were all to be found at our posts. Our co’s. post is Bastion No. 3, where is the two Columbiads. It was painfully warm upon the walls this morn. This seems to me to be the warmest day I ever felt. The workmen commenced fixing “Bunks” in our quarters today. They are going to crowd us into a very small space.
            The boat came over this eve, bringing several of our boys. Boughton came back. He has been gone nearly two months. The reason his stay has been gone so long is, he has been in very bad health. Campbell, Perry & Irwin also came back. Two recruits (Winborne & Williams) came on the boat, making our number one hundred and eleven.
            This after-noon at dress-parade, Col. M. formed a square of the reg’t. and talked a little to us. He said the enemy was about to invade our land! which I cannot realize—it seems to me like a dream. He said we were going to have to work—throwing up “Redoubts” on the beach one & two miles from here. He also said that two other reg’ts. were ordered here, & that they would be placed at the sand-batteries, which are yet to be thrown up by us. He also said furloughs were to be entirely done with. We have had a very easy time for soldiers so far, and it was lucky for us; but ease is all done
 
 
18  September                                                 1861
 
with now. I anticipate a hard time, from this till the end of the enlistment; but it is perfectly just. All other soldiers in this service have had to work,—&, why not we?
Sabbath, Sept. 15th
            This morn I had the pleasure of sleeping till breakfast, when I arose & ate a hearty meal. After breakfast I attended Inspection, after which I had to attend guard-mounting as I was detailed this morn for guard. Our detail was again so lucky as to get in as gar. guard. The boat came over today, as usual; but her passengers could not come ashore until they had obtained a special permit from Col. Maury. My old college-mate, Tom Poince came over on the boat. I was glad to see him. He was very much surprised to see me here.
            He is 2nd Lieut. in a company in his county (Choctaw) & Bill Hopkins is 1st Lieut. He said his co. had rec’d. orders to come to this place, & that they would be here in about two weeks. I was very—very glad to hear it. He offered me O. S. if I would get a transfer into his co.; but I would not like to do that.
            This has been an exceedingly warm day.
Monday, Sept. 16th
            Last night Jno. S. McG. & I sit upon the walls until 12 P.M. entertaining one another with our “love experiences,” &c. This was very interesting to me, & I could have thus spent the night; but at this time I had to go on guard. I stood my two hours, & the during the latter part of it I was quite unwell. I could not sleep for some time. I awoke unwell this morn, & have been all day. At 12 M. our “Bunks” were finished. I moved into the
 
 
September                                                       1861                                                    19
 
one I had selected, & like it better than any in this room. This after-noon I was excused from bat. drill & did not attend. I feel some unwell tonight, & feel like I am going to have a spell of sickness. But I hope, by prudence, I will soon regain my health. I shall take a blue-mass pill tonight.
            Now to a subject too sublime for man to undertake:—The subject of angel-like woman!
“My only thought by day,
My only dream by night!”
            I have thought seriously of the present gloomy prospects now before me of not seing her I love until next March. Although we agreed not to write to one another, yet, I have concluded that I cannot refrain from writing to her if I cannot go to see her ere the expiration of the enlistment. Let the consequences be what they may—for my weal or my woe—I must write. I think it nothing more than right that we should correspond, and I am going to produce some strong arguments in order to cause her to think so.
Tuesday, Sept. 17th
            This morn I slept until I was waked for breakfast, when I felt quite unwell & did not eat but little. After break—I went to the hosp—, for the first time since I had the measles, to get some medicine & be excused from duty. I was excused & got my medicine. I have forgotten to take my medicine as I should have done; but, nevertheless have had enough to use it pretty freely.
            Capt. Cleavelands (Now Lankford’s) Company ret’d. from a scouting expedition they have been out on ever since the last alarm
 
 
20  September                                                 1861
 
of which I have spoken. They went afoot, with a wagon & cart along for their luggage. They saw nothing anyways suspicious; but it is well to have a co. up on the beach all of the time. Col. M. speaks of doing so.
            The boat came over today. She did not stay more than a half hour. Sam Goodwin Sr. came over on her. I guess he will stay with us several days. As usual, I rec’d. no letters. The papers every day give accounts of skirmishes up in Va. I am daily anticipating the hearing of a battle more bloody than any on record between us & the enemy. I locate it at Arlington Heights & Washington city. Each side has an immense force stationed thereabouts, & we have ordered all the idle cars that can be had to that place, &, in a word, everything indicating a bloody fight is there. I do sincerely hope that, if this battle proves us victorious (which I hardly doubt) it will causes all difficulties to cease between the North & South.
Wednesday, Sept. 18th
            This morning, as I was excused from drill, I again slept till breakfast. I took a large dose of quinine before I ate. I have felt pretty well all day &, have been on duty.
            The “Pope Walker Rifles”, Capt. McDonald, were sent up on the gulf beach, for the purpose of cruising around to look out for any thing suspicious.
            At noon small vessels (two I believe) were seen to land at Sand Island. We fired one shot from one of our columbiads; but it did not affect anything, as it shot over the island entirely.
            I do not think they can do us much harm
 
 
September                                                       1861                                                    21
 
over there. It caused a little excitement with us.
            This after-noon we, to our great satisfaction, had no bat. drill: The order is we are to have battalion drill hereafter early in the morning. If this is so, I am pleased, for the excessive heat in the after-noon now renders drill almost painful. I fear it is not so, for it was not published at dress-parade.
            Tonight I, with crowd, took a very pleasant bathe. Since supper I have spoken to Lt. Best in regard to our paying for Ed (our cook) & settling up for him—to have nothing more to do with the boy, as all of us were very much dissatisfied with him. He demanded no pay; but I told him I had rather pay than not as I did not wish to be under any obligations to his owner. He said I would be under no obligations whatever. I then spoke to him concerning what I learned from Jno. McG. viz: Best told Mrs. Giles (so says she) that after Jerry quit cooking for us, which was while Ed was in the guaard-house in Mobile, that Jim G. & I went round among the mess making up a purse to pay Jerry for his time; while we had never offered Ed a cent for his services. I told him I had heard this, & said no matter with me who told it—it was a base, impious lie on me, and—it would be useless for me to give the whole conversation. Suffice to say, he denied it all, leaving the lie to rest on Mrs. G.—for I know Jno. McG. didn’t tell it. I shall not say who I believe told it.
Thursday, Sept. 19th 1861.
            This morn I slept until after drill, &, consequently, was detailed for guard, as extra duty.
            After breakfast I attended guard-mounting. Our detail was put on the Picket today. I was on No 5
 
 
22  September                                                 1861
 
of the first relief. Today we have had two battalion drills; one, before breakfast, & one at the usual hour in the P.M. I guess it was a mistake about changing bat. drill from evening to morning; for the reason they had it the usual hour this after-noon. Tonight after I came off at 8 P.M. I came into the fort to get my supper. In I broke my watch by letting it fall out of my pocket as I stooped to give the counter-sign to the sentinel. Tonight the c-s-n was “Pickens.”
            I talked with Jno. S. McG. until near 10 P.M. when I went out to the picket guard-house and took a nap till twelve. Today I wrote a letter of six pages to her I love. I wrote desiring her correspondence. I could not bear the idea of not seeing & then not hearing from her until next March, which now seems to be as soon as any of us will be allowed to return home.
            I will be in a state of great anxiety until I hear the results of this letter.
Friday, Sept. 20th
            Last night I had a beautiful, moon-light night in which to watch from 12 to 2 A.M. I had seemingly a lonely time, but it gave me composure of mind and my thoughts were all concentrated on her I love—picturing out my future—both, weal & woe. I had a refreshing sleep from 2 to 7 A.M., when I awoke & came to breakfast, of which I freely partook. I again went out to the guard-house & remained there until guard-mounting when we were dismissed.
            The boat came over today. It was not her regular day. I do not know her business. She had no passengers, save Col. M. which may have been her only business. She did not even bring the mail
 
 
September                                                       1861                                                    23
 
            After bat. drill, Col. M. formed the battalion into a square, when Adj. McClung read a letter from Gov. A. B. Moore to this Reg’t. from Mobile. It was giving us  a few farewell remarks as our gov. & stating his reasons for not visiting us. Tonight the wind is blowing very strong & the clouds indicate a storm.
            This after-noon the cooking arrangements of our whole co. were placed in one casement making it so thickly crowded when eating that we cannot stir scarcely. I have no idea we can stand it long; but I cannot think of a better plan that we will be allowed to adopt.
Saturday, Sept. 21st
            This morn I attended drill for the first time before breakfast this week. After breakfast, I was detailed to sweep out quarters, which I did, excusing me from attending the “Long-roll” at 8 A.M.
            Today the boat came over at her usual time.
            None of our men came over today. I was looking for Fon B. back from Mobile today, but he did not come. I rec’d. a short letter from Annie today—the first I have recd. from her since I returned from home. I also received a long letter from Phil. He seemed to be in pretty good spirits. He said they were well-fed & had but little to do; which is better than us; for now we are poorly fed. Tonight I went with quite a number of boys in a bathing. We stayed in too long, &, consequently, I feel somewhat unwell.
            Jno. McG. told Tom Mobley that Best denied saying to me what Mrs. Giles said that he told her. Tom is very angry, & says as soon as Best returns from Mobile, he intends making him “swallow it”, or get whipped one; I do not blame Tom Mobley a particle.
 
 
24  September                                                 1861
 
Sabbath, Sept. 22nd
            This morn I slept until after 6 A.M. I awoke feeling a little sick, though none to heart. I partook very freely of my morning meal. At 71/2 A.M. I attended the usual Sabbath morning inspection. We were inspected opposite our quarters on account of the excessive heat. I failed to state on yesterday, that we were paid off. Our money was given us in Confederate bonds, which is as good as gold. Capt. Saxon’s men had quite a row this morn. One hit another over the head with a pistol, causing the blood to flow quite freely. They are to be court-martialed. The boat did not come over today, as usual. I guess she failed on account of the roughness of the bay.
            This has been quite a cool windy day. I guess we will have no more very warm weather; at least, I hope not.
Monday, Sept. 23rd
            This morn I awoke in good health to behold the sun of my twentyeth birthday. It seems impossible that I am out of my “teens”, when I reflect, & think but seemingly a few days ago I was a small boy running about Vienna. It is full time I was thinking of making something of myself—shaping out some course to pursue through life. But, alas! what have I done, either temporally or spiritually. I have almost thrown away my past life in idly employing my time, and such moments as I have thus spent will ne’er return to me. They were the “golden moments” of a person’s life.
            This morning is pretty cool—not more so than is pleasant. I hope it will continue to
 
 
September                                                       1861                                                    25
 
be cool, for we have had some weather painfully warm. This morning there are three large vessels—two steamers & one sail vessel—in sight. They all seem to be very large. I do not understand so many being posted out there at the same time.
            I went a fishing this morn, and caught several cat-fish; but salt-water cats are not good to eat. The “Polk Walker Rifles” came back y last night from scouting. Their report was of no importance. We mounted our first rifled cannon today. In the course of a few weeks we will have a good many mounted.
            The boat came over this after-noon. It was not the regular packet. It was the “Henry Lewis”. Fon. B., Cal U. & Best came over on her. Fon came back sick.
            Tonight as Dock McK. was sick & on guard, I took his place. I will have to stand only two & a half hours, when if I had have waited until tomorrow I would have to go regularly on & stand about six hours. I came off very lightly.
Tuesday, Sept. 24th
            This morn Jim G. (my corporal) waked me up to go to breakfast. I went & partook freely of my meal. Afterwards I went to the front sally-port & stood one half hour. I passd the time off very pleasantly.
            This morn one or two companies were detailed to commence working on the sand batteries. I do not know how long they will continue. Our time will soon be here, & I somewhat dread it.
            Today about noon a man named Ariel of “So. Ala. Rangers” shot himself. A few weeks ago he forged a furlough & attempted to desert. He got as far as Mobile where he was caught & brought back. He was ironed & placed in the guard-house, where he was awaiting his trial. He said several times that he felt confident he would be shot. About a week ago he got his irons off by some unknown means
 
 
26  September                                                 1861
 
and got out of the guard-house. He was hunted all around, and nothing was seen of him until yesterday. Col. M. saw a man carry him a bottle of water yester. morn. When they found him a man started under after him, when he (Ariel) immediately shot himself with a pistol, without saying a word. He was the most horrid looking object I I ever saw. The whole of the left side of his head was shot off, & we could see everything in his head—his brains fell out & was lying by him. He rec’d. no sympathy at all. He was buried as a deserter & a traitor. A square box roughly put up was his coffin, with a few shavings in the bottom for his bed. He was not washed—; but was put in with his bloody clothes on,—not even pulling off his shoes. Maury did not allow him to be buried with the other soldiers; but put him in a place a mile from our soldier’s grave-yard.
            The boat came over today at its usual time. Mark Clauton returned from home. The papers contained nothing of interest except a small fight at Barboursville Ky. in which we we are again victorious. The mail came, &, as usual, I received no letter. Tonight Col. M. with his rifle company has gone out cruising on a small tow-boat. This after-noon at dress-parade it was published that Col. M. would give this reg’t. a barbacue tomorrow—quite a new idea to me. This order was quite gratifying to most of us; for our ony thought is of something good to eat.
Wednesday, Sept. 25th
            As we had no drill this morn, I was allowed the pleasure of sleeping till breakfast, which is quite a luxury to me. I ate a hearty meal, & feel quite well. What a blessing it is to have good health!
 
 
September                                                       1861                                                    27
 
I fear we will have a bad day for our barbecue, as it is cloudy, & is now raining a little.
            Maury’s expedition last night proved to be of no importance. He speaks of taking such expeditions frequently.
            Twenty of our men are detailed to go up & help ditch &c. for the barbacue. I was among the number; but am not going; for I had rather go without it than to work for it as some are doing.
            It rained but a short time, when it cleared off. Our barbecue came off about 3 P.M., when the men “went it blind,” & soon devoured all the provisions.
            After the “cue” we had several short but very patriotic addresses from some of the officers. Lt. Scott first gave us a sensible talk, then Lt. Col. Bradford delivered quite an eloquent address. He is a beautiful orator. Lt. Goodwin made a very good speech. I didn’t enjoy the barbecue very much; but did the speaking.
            I failed to mention that on yesterday Gen. Withers, who has been made Gen. of the forces around Mobile & Mobile bay, visited us yesterday. We received him with the customary honors. He is a small & grey-whiskered man—in fact, only a common-looking person.
Thursday, Sept. 26th
            This morn the sun rose amid a dark cloud, which threatened rain at every moment. It rained “off & on” the greater part of the day, & it is quite cloudy tonight.
            We attended both drills this morning; but failed having bat. drill this eve on account of rain. The boat came over today. (The “Henry Lewis” is our packet now). None of our men came over today. Some of them went over to Mobile. Lt. Col. Fon B. & Maj. B. H. Gordon went home on furlough to attend battalion drill, which will
 
 
28  September                                                 1861
 
be on the 5th of Oct. O. S. Salmond is the Col. of the Reg’t. (59th) of which these men hold their offices. The Redoubts of which I spoke some time since have been surveyed & Capt. Forney’s men have gone up to work on it. Our co. will next be detailed to work. I failed, in the proper place, to say that Jim & I rec’d. a long letter from our dear friend Phil. He seemed to be enjoying himself as well as a poor soldier cut off from the sweets of home could expect.
Friday, Sept. 27th
            This morn I arose & attended morning drill; After which, I was detailed on guard, & unlucky for me, came on “Picket.” The picket has recently been moved further up the beach, now requiring more men. We have to do full guard duty (stand 8 hours in the 24.) This is pretty tight when the gar. guard only stand six hours. Out there we have only one tent for the sentinels & non-com. officers which makes it crowded, there being thirty one besides the off. of the guard. We are going to have quite a cold time, as it is a cold blustry day.
            Our whole co. was detailed to work today—raising to the top of the wall & mounting one of the dahlgreens. This eve they nearly finished it.
            As I am on the second relief, I shall be waked twice to go out in the cold, which I dread. I have usually been placed on the 3rd relief, which is far the choice relief to me.
Saturday, Sept. 28th
            I thought I would freeze last night on duty, & never did time pass off slower to me. It seemed as if I stood an age; but what is this for? Why it is for our country—for our rights & for our liberty & for these, what
 
 
September                                                       1861                                                    29
 
would we not endure—what—not willingly suffer? Why, next to our sacred lives, are these to our hearts!
            This is another cold, windy day. This morn I went down & fished awhile, but had no luck.
            This eve the boat failed to come over, I guess on account of the roughness of the bay. I fished nearly all this after-noon. Dick & I caught a pretty good mess of “Croakers” & Flounders—both a very good kind of fish. No orders were issued at dress parade this after-noon, except preaching tomorrow at 101/2 A.M. by Dr. Spillman. I was glad to hear it, for the Dr. has been gone some time & I have heard no preaching in so long that I much desire to hear him, although I am by no means partial to Dr. S.
Monday, Sept.
Sabbath, Sept. 29th
            This morn I had a splendid sleep until late breakfast, when I was aroused. I ate a hearty meal. At 71/2 A.M. the drum was beaten for inspection. We had the usual Sunday morning inspection. After this four or five of us practised singing the notes for a while. Just here, we have been practising a good deal of late, & I think in the “course of time” I may learn to sing “bass.” I walked down to the wharf to pass of time, expecting to return in time for preaching. I stayed away about three quarters of an hour, & when I came back preaching was over. I understood he did not preach more than fifteen minutes.
            The boat came over, but brought no news. The mail came, &, of course, I got “narry letter.” I do not intend to write but one more letter in two weeks. That one is to Phil. I will not quit him because all my other correspondents have seemingly quit me.
 
 
30  Sept & Oct.                                               1861
 
Monday, September 30th
            This morn I was awaked at the first dawning of day to attend drill. Very much did I hate to arise; but I knew I had it to do, or go on “double duty” & I preferred the former. Hence, I attended drill. The morning drilling now amounts to nothing more than a means by which to wake a fellow up good.
            This, & several days previous, has been pretty cold. I hope we will have no more very warm weather, although it is pretty hard to stand guard in the cold. I have spent the greater portion of the day in fishing. Before dinner I caught nothing, but hung two fish so large that they broke my hooks. Bill Perry caught a shark that would weigh about seventy five pounds—The largest fish I ever saw caught with a hook & line. This eve I caught a Redfish that weighed about six or seven pounds—a fine fellow. It was about as good fish as I ever eat. Battalion drill was very short & easy this evening. Nothing new at dress parade today.
Tuesday, Oct. 1st.
            This morn I slept till breakfast, knowing I would have to go on guard anyway. After break- I attended guard-mounting, & quite luckily for us, we were placed on the gar. guard. I am at Post No. 7—a very good place. I fished about an hour today; but did not get a bite, so I quit. I have been reading “The Pioneer’s Life in the West” today, in which is given the life of Danl. Boone, Gen. Clarke & others. It is a poor work.
The boat came over today, but brought no news worth recording. She brought the mail, but it is against my principles to get a letter. I was hoping the Capt. would come back to
 
 
October                                                           1861                                                    31
 
day, but he did not. He has been home over a month, hence, I am very anxious to see him.
            Our Company was ordered to go up to the Redoubts this after-noon to commence working. All have gone except the sick & those of us on guard. The latter part of us will go up tomorrow eve. I expect we will have a pretty hard time of it; but I have become almost entirely careless as regards anything that may befall me.
Wednesday, Oct. 2nd
            Last night from 12 to 2 A.M. I felt quite unwell, but did not “give out.” I did not sleep at all sound last night. I arose this morn just in time to stand my last tour of duty, which was forty minutes at the guard-house door. after standing this time, I went & ate the small lunch my mess had left for me. We were dismounted at the usual time.
 
Friday Oct. 25th
            I failed during my stay at the camp to keep up my journal, on account of so many inconveniences. I cannot rehearse every particular occurrence, as I could have done had I have kept it up every day.
            While up there we did no drilling at all. Only kept out four sentinels at a time, and that from Taps (9 P.M.) until day-light. The number in each tent was varied from three to five. In ours there was five—viz: Jno. & Andr McG., Jim G., Dick. B. & myself—we were somewhat crowded. We worked about an hour before breakfast—began at sun-rise. At breakfast we rested about a half hour, when we began work & continued until 101/2 A.M. We then rested until about 21/2 P.M. when we worked till about sunset.
            Our whole time for work daily was about 61/2 hours.
 
 
32
 
The boys worked faithfully & with good glee when it was required of them. They saw the necessity of this work & went to it without a murmer or a complaint.
            At night our camp was full of enjoyment. All seemed to be ready to have their fun. The principle amusements were, dancing, jumping, wrestling &c.
            The time while in camp passed off very fast and pleasantly. We were not worked very hard, and, consequently, were never so tired as to lose our spirits.
 
 
                                                                                                                                    33
These two pages I carelessly overlooked.
 
 
34  October                                                     1861
 
On the 4th inst., about noon, Forney’s battery (“Camp Maury”) was fired upon by the blocade vessel, the Mississippi. She fired about twenty shells—all bursted well, but did not come near the battery. Our Co. was ordered to report there immediately, which order was promptly executed. This caused a great deal of excitement—and what was provoking we had at that time no guns mounted at any of these batteries, hence, we could not return their bomb-salutes.
            Col. M. determined on having some rifled cannon there immediately. So by night he had one there—taking it from the fort—a distance of two miles, through heavy sand. About dark (the same eve) our Co. was ordered to report at Camp Maury to Maj. Morgan, which they straightway did. They were then “put thro’” until about one A.M., hauling cannons &c. I was unwell, so Fred Shipman & I were left to guard the camp. By the next morn two cannons were there ready for mounting.
            They were soon mounted, & ready for the Mississippi’s return, but, I will say just here, she has never yet returned, & better for her if she never does.
            The Capt. retd from home on the 12th. He had been gone over a month. I was very glad to see him, for I wished to see Best’s authority taken from him; but I am sorry to say he let Best still have command. O. S. Salmond, Searg. Billups, and several others of our Co. retd while we were in camp. I came to the fort every two or three days, which was a good long walk (called a mile) but it seems
 
 
October                                                           1861                                                    35
 
to me like a very long mile. It was quite a luxury for me to come to the fort, for I despised to stay at the camp.
            We did a great deal of hard work while up there. Threw up three (3) batteries, & mounted two rifled guns—32-pounders. We also threw up an embankment about fifty yards long for musketry. We finished yesterday morning, & this morn all of us, except about twenty bid farewell to the “Lane Guards’ battery” & “narry” tear did I shed. This no. of men were left there with one Lt. & to non-com. off. to guard the battery. They will be relieved every week or two I believe. Today I have spent at the fort, doing but little of anything. This after-noon I spent fishing. I caught two or three small fish, and one shark about two & a half feet long. Nothing was done at dress-parade worthy of note that I heard of.
Saturday Oct. 26th
            Today has been a pretty cool day—not more so than was pleasant. The boat came over this after-noon, but could not land at the wharf on account of the roughness of the bay. She “weighed her anchor” down near the south beach in the gulf; and landed her passengers in small boats. Tres Mobley, Ken. Baily, Bill Richardson and Jno. Cotton came over on her. These men had all been gone some time on sick furloughs.
            This after-noon our co. went to dress-parade for the first time since before we went up to the sand-batteries.
            Nothing new
 
 
36  October                                                     1861
 
Sunday October 27th 1861.
            This morn I was awaked to late breakfast, when I arose & partook heartily of my morning meal. Today I wore the Neubia the one once next my heart had knit & sent me. It is a very nice & comfortable garment, if such it may be called. I would like to express, just here, my feelings in regard to her I loved. I do love her devotedly; but from her actions, I must believe she does not love me! If this is so, it is useless for me to go any further with the matter. She has, in not giving any reply whatever to my letter, left me in a state of painful suspense, and a state in which I cannot, for my life, tell what course I should pursue. This I consider a very important step in my life, and it is my desire to be prudent & do what is right; but this is very—very difficult. I cannot tell, as yet, what I shall do.
            This has been a very pleasant day, but has been a long one to me.
            The boat did not come over today.
            I wrote a long letter from to Miss Mag Crawford today, in which I expressed feelings of love for her. I do not know what she will think of it. I guess she will be a good deal surprised. It would not at all surprise me if she did “kick” me! I do not care.
Monday Oct. 28th
            I failed to say that on yester eve at dress-parade that drill exercises were to be resumed. I also have failed to say that there has been no drill exercise for near a month.
 
 
October                                                           1861                                                    37
 
            This morn I was awaked early to attend drill. I very reluctantly arose. We drilled—and it seemed to me we were out near two hours, when the proper length of time is one hour. We are not drilling at all this morn, for the reason that Col. M. has the officers out “frightening them up.” I have just written to Cous. Mollie G. in answer to a letter I rec’d. from her a short time since.
            This after-noon we had bat. drill. Cooper acted as Adjutant. Col. M. had sent Adj. McClung to Mobile. We were a little awkward at drill, as we had not drilled in so long a time before.
            Tonight I had a very interesting conversation with Mark Clauton. He gave me the descriptions of several of his courtships. These were amusing, as well as, interesting.
            At dress-parade no orders were issued.
Tuesday, Oct. 29th
            This morn I attended drill before breakfast. I again missed being put on guard. I have not been on since we left the camp, and have been expecting every day that the Orderly would get me. I am detailed to sweep up quarters, which I will do as soon as I can get a broom.
            Today at 9 A.M. we had Artillery drill, which did not prove at all interesting to me.
            At battalion drill Major Morgan commanded.The boat came over this after-noon, & brought the mail. I received no letter; but was not disappointed, as I looked for none. This after-noon there was no orders read a dress-parade.
            Tonight Andw McGowen & I had quite a long and interesting (to me) conversation on our “prospects” &c.
 
 
38  October                                                     1861
 
Wednesday Oct. 30th.
            At drill before breakfast we had a bat. drill on a small scale. The Capt. divided our company into two platoons. Fon B. & Jim A. Gibson were as Capt’s. over these & O. S. Salmond acted as Col. He did very well. At 9 A.M. drill our officers were summoned to a Court of Inquiry.
O.S. Salmond put us through Artillery drill.
I have been a fishing today. Had but poor luck. Caught a few small cat-fish. This after-noon Col. Maury had no battalion drill. This agreed with all of us. The small schooner which “ran the blocade” for Cuba from Mobile some two or three weeks ago came in this morn, after successfully “running the blocade” again last night. She brought 360 sacks of coffee & some cigars, besides, some important messages from our Consul in Cuba to President Davis.
            To show the inefficiency of the blocade—Lincoln’s consul dispatched to the blocade here, to keep a close lookout for this vessel, and then she came by—all “safe & sound.”
At dress-parade no order was published. Lt. Sam Rice acted Adjutant. He did very poorly,—making several very prominent blunders.
Thursday Oct. 31st.
This morn we again had bat. drill, made out of our Co. Today the Rifle Co. came down from the Cove where it had been camped for near a month. Saxon’s Co. went up to their camp in their stead today.
 
 
October                                                           1861                                        November  39
 
            This after-noon at 3 P.M. instead of bat. drill was the “Grand Master & Inspection” which comes off every two months. This is very tiresome, & is the third one I have attended.
            At the usual time the boat came over; she brought no news of importance. I got no letter, as usual.
            At dress-parade Lt. Scott acted as Adjutant. Did pretty well. No order was read. Col. M. fired the Rifled Dahlgreen this eve twice. She did only tolerably well.
Friday Novr. 1st 1861.
                                    This morn—rather last night we had a very heavy rain. This morn we did not drill. I am, at last, on guard! I have not been on before since O. S. Salmond returned.
            I think I will have quite a wet time from all appearances. I am Post No. 4 of the 1st Relief. Will have to go on the beach tonight—By no means, a desirable position. The flag-staff man reported a large fire in the direction of Mobile last night. I fear we will soon hear of the burning of the city—
            This after-noon is very cold, & I will have a freezing time on the beach tonight. We had no bat. drill this eve on account of so much water on the drill-grounds. Had no dress-parade.
Saturday, Nov’r. 2nd
I had an awful cold time last night. We rendezvoused in the old hay-house, near the wharf. I slept about five hours during the night, and feel pretty well this morn.
            Last night I saw the same light towards
 
 
40  November                                                 1861
 
Mobile which was reported the night previous to be the burning of the city. I think it was the “Aurora boreallis.” It looked like the first dawning of the sun on a clear morn.
            The Capt. had no drill this morning on account of the inclemency of the weather.
            The boat came over at the usual time this after-noon. She brought the mail; and, to my great surprise, I received a letter from the one of my affections. I had no idea of ever hearing from her again. I thought we had parted forever. But am thrice happy that I now think differently. She said she preferred not corresponding with me. That did not suit me exactly, still, she has done all I demanded of her. I now await in suspense the results of my letter to Miss M—e. Capt. L. went to Mobile today.
Sabbath, Nov’r. 3rd 1861.
            Last night I had a most refreshing sleep. I was awaked to late breakfast, of which I heartily partook. After breakfast we attended Sunday morn inspection.
            For the first time in about two months, we had inspection on the dress-parade ground. The boat did not come over today. I believe she has quit coming over on Sundays. This P.M. Fon. B., Jno. McG. Jim G. & myself went up to the Oyster Saloon. Called for two dozen fried. I never had eaten any before, more than just to try them. We ate that number when Fon. B. called for two dozen more, which we did not more than half finish before I called for two dozen more. We (all four) ate six dozen, and I proved to be very fond of them fried. But I could not go one raw.
            No orders were issued at d.-p-. Capt. Foster commanded.
 
 
November                                                       1861                                                    41
 
Monday, November 4th 1861.
            This morn I was awaked by the sounding of the drum to attend drill. I was very loath to arise, but did so, and attended drill. Drill was the same monotonous facings, marching by the flank—to the front, &c.—nothing new, or even interesting occurring.
            I spent the greater portion of the fore-noon fishing. I had very poor luck—only caught one small cat-fish. At bat. drill Lt. Col. Bradford commanded. He marched us up to “Lane Guards’ Battery”, where we charged on the boys & made them surrender! We rested up there a while when we came back—marching at a very irregular route step.
Col. M’s. Rifle Company was broken up today. Lieut. Robinson acted as Adjutant at dress-par. Nothing new was published. Tonight I answered a letter from Mattie which I rec’d. several weeks since.
Tuesday, Novr. 5th
            This morning I reluctantly arose from my pleasant “bunk” to attend drill. After drill I was not detailed for guard as I expected I would be. At 9 A.M. drill we drilled on Artillery as usual. Lt. Best made me a gunner of one squad. The greater portion of this morn I spent in cleaning my gun, which I have let get in very bad order. The Carondolet came over today earlier than common. She brought us to columbiads—each, 10 inch callibre. She did not bring the mail. So all were disappointed who were expecting letters.
            This after-noon we had no bat. drill. At dress-parade several orders were published; some of which seemed to show war was expected soon by the “high authorities.” We are to be supplied with three months’ supplies of provisions & wood.
 
 
42  November                                                 1861
 
No more boats are to be allowed without the limits of the bay. Gen. Withers’ opinion is, we will be attacked within seven days, or not at all. Lincoln’s “Great Armada” is South of Charleston, down on the Georgia Coast. I guess they will give us a call as they pass. If they do, they will receive a hearty reception. Tonight the small tow-boat, Gunnison, came over from Mobile, bringing the mail. I rec’d. a letter from pa. All were well at home. I rec’d. through him the intelligence of the death of Dr. Geo. Williams—a promising young doctor, who was cut off by that fatal disease—the consumption.
Wednesday, Nov’r. 6th
            Last night about 2 P.M. we were awaked by the alarm drum. The sentinels at Saxon’s battery were fired on by three men. Our co. was ordered to our battery, which order was quickly complied with. After we got there we stationed sixteen men—eight on the beach, & eight across the point. We saw, nor heard anything more exciting. This morn at daylight we returned to the fort. I was detailed on guard. I was appointed Sergeant, & am sergeant of the gar. guard. It is very confining.
            Today I learned that one of our sentinels shot at last night was barely missed—the ball passing through his vest. These men must have come from the blocade vessel for some purpose. I guess it was to take a prisoner back in order to find out the particulars in regard to the fort. It is a great pity that our man missed them in his fire. But “luck seemed against us!” If they ever try such an unthought of expedition again I guess we will be better prepared to receive them.
 
 
November                                                       1861                                                    43
 
This after-noon the boat came over (not her usual day). I do not know her business. Today was election day for Congressman, President & Vice-President. Thos. Herndon was the successful candidate in our company for Congress; & Jef. Davis was the suc. one by every co. in the fort for President.
Thursday, Nov’r. 7th
            I was awaked at 12 P.M. last night, and did not sleep any more until now. I went the “Grand Rounds” with the Off. of the Day (Capt. McDonald) last night about 12 O’clock. This morn at the usual time—8 A.M.—the old guard was dismounted, & glad was I of it, for I never was so confined as I had been the twenty four hours previous. After guard mount’g I went a fishing; but caught nothing at all,—didn’t  even get a bite.
            The boat came over at her usual hour. Lieut. Mitchell returned from “up-country,” where he had been on furlough. The mail was brought over; but, as usual, I received “nary letter.” This after-noon we had no drill—quite agreeable to myself, as well as, to many others. At dress-parade a few orders were read of but little importance.
            Today & tonight I have been reading a novel, styled, “The Planter’s Northern Bride.” It is a splendid Southern work, by Mrs. Lee Hentz. It strongly approves of Slavery.
Friday Nov’r. 8th
            This morm I was awaked to attend drill, which I did. Lieut. Mitchell commanded the company. After breakfast, I “loafed” about until time for Artillery drill (9 A.M.) We attended this drill;—accomplished but little.
 
 
44  November                                                 1861
 
I have spent the greater portion of the day in reading the novel of which I spoke yesterday. I have become very much interested in it. I see in it the picture of a man, & woman too, who possess all the qualities of a christian, and all the moral attributes which are so enviable in life. This after-noon but we had a very short battalion drill. I think our officers are becoming “bored” with the monotonous drills. We are having some weather quite warm, especially for this season of the year.
Saturday, Nov’r. 9th.
            This morning I arose & went out to drill. After break-fast we had no “Long Roll” as we usually have of Saturday mornings. I went to the wharf & fished awhile, but as usual returned without a fish—did not get a bite.
            The telegraphic dispatches came last night that the federals have taken Port Royal on the Georgia coast. And that we have taken Columbus Ky. At Port Royal we only had two sand batteries. Our men never evacuated them until amunition gave out. Then we lost eight men—twenty seven wounded.
            At C—s, Ky. the federals numbered 8000—we, 2600. 200 of ours were killed—4 or 500 of the enemy were cut down; and, the remainder we completely routed! What a mark of divine assistance, that almost one to four should cause them to turn their backs for flight!!
            The boat did not come over until late this after-noon. Capt. L. ret’d. to the Ft. from home where he had been on a very short furlough. He brought
 
 
November                                                       1861                                                    45
 
me a short letter from pa, stating all were well at home, which I was more than glad to learn. Lt. Mitchell’s baggage, which was detained when he came over, arrived today. He has some things for me which I understand is from Miss Maggie C—. I will not be able to see them until tomorrow. The painful anxiety, rather suspense, I have suffered from this is better imagined than described!
Sabbath, Nov’r.10th.
            This morn I was awaked to late breakfast. I arose, and ate a hearty meal. After breakfast Lt. Mitchell opened his box and delivered to me the highly valued articles from Miss Maggie Crawford. To the cap she sent me was attached a “note of four pages.” This I eagerly perused, and quite pleasant to me was its contents. My pants & coat are too large for me, but I intend to wear them for the donor’s sake. In her letter she asked me for my daguerotype, & requested me to write to her! both of which requests I expect to gratify; and do it more than willingly too.
The boat has quit coming over on Sundays. This after-noon Jim G. & I went up to see Crawf. Irwin & Milt Lofton, both of whom are sick at the Hospital. The former has had a lengthy & severe attack of the flux, but is now nearly well. Milt has had the Pneumonia, but is improving.
            This after-noon at dress-parade Capt. Lanier commanded. He does not “play the Col.” well. I guess he would do better after some experience. No orders at all were published.
 
 
46  November                                                 1861
 
Monday, November 11th 1861
            I failed to mention that on yesterday eve one of Capt. Foster’s men struck another of his men over the head with his gun, for a very grievous offence done him by the one he struck. He is not expected to live.
            This is, apparently, a warm spring morning.—Very warm for this season of the year. Drill this morn was the same as usual. I also forgot to state that on yesterday six privates & one corporal, from our co. was sent up to guard the battery with but one gun just opposite our battery. Corp. Mobley went. Ches. H., & Jno. McG. were two of the privates.
            Instead of artillery drill this morning, the company was formed and marched around to the Ordnance Department, for accoutrements. We are now all full equipped.—A pretty time to be giving out accountrements after being near eight months in the service! But I guess it was as early as we could be supplied with them.
            The boat (not the reg. packet) came over this eve. She was very heavily loaded with wood. She brought no mail. The minute details of the Port Royal & Columbus fights came. They were about as they first came. Ours was a glorious victory at Columbus. We evacuated Port Royal on account of having no amunition.
            Nothing new—quite a warm day.
Tuesday, Nov’r.12th
            Last night, near 12 P.M. I was awaked by the firing of one of our 10 inch Columbiads. Col. M. fired five shells, all of which bursted well—at a small
 
 
November                                                       1861                                                    47
 
vessel seen in the direction of Sand Island. We sent a vessel out after it, & brought it in. There was but one man aboard, & he had been living at Navy Cove. It is thought he was making way for the blocade vessels. His excuse for being out there was poor—it was, he was drunk & his boat drifted there. Col. M. is holding a Court of Inquiry this morn, and I would not be surprised if he was shot. If he is guilty of disloyalty (which I do not much doubt) he ought to be killed!
            Today the boat came over at her usual time (about 1 P.M.) Jim Love, & Holliman ret’d. on her. The had both been gone home for near two months on sick furlough. They both ret’d. looking well. Jim Love brought me a bundle, a letter from Ma, and one from Cousins Mollie & Sallie G. each. Nothing very new was in them. All my friends & relatives were well. The mail came, and in it two letters for me!—one, from Phil, and one, from my dearest M. The feelings of happiness this latter letter produced is far beyond description. It was of a favorable import, & every word seemed to thill my heart with fresh joy. Tonight I have, to the best of my ability, answered her letter, & returned my thanks for the articles she sent me by Lt. Mitchell. Since the reception of hers, I have felt myself a “new man.” I feel like I now had the confidence of one who would not fear to trust her life with me, were it necessary.       x          x          x          x          x          x
            I forgot to state that on Thursday, the 7th, inst. the blocade vessel fired about 100 guns. We do not know what they meant. Some surmised they had heard good news.
 
 
48  November                                                 1861
 
Wednesday, Nov’r. 13th 1861
            This morn I was awaked to attend drill, which I did; after which I was detailed on guard. I have attended guard-mounting. I am on the 3rd Relief, Post No. 6.—a very good position for guard duty.
            This morn I spent, first lounging at the guard-house—then, at my quarters,—my moments dragging slowly away.
            At 12 M. I was posted at the second magazine, where I stayed one hour, when I was relieved. This after-noon there was no bat. drill, by Capt. Lanier’s order, who, by the by, has been acting Col. today. Another rifled cannon was mounted today, making nine mounted rifled guns on the gar. wall.
            Another war vessel came into the blocade this after-noon, supposed to have a prize.
            Tonight we have favorable prospects of a beautiful, moonlight, and pleasant time for guard duty.
Thursday, Nov’r. 14th.
            Last night I could not sleep, on account of deep thought of the past, and pleasant musings of the future. I did not sleep a wink until 2 A.M., after which time I “slept like a log”, until this morn at 6 I was awaked to stand my last tour of guard duty, which was 40 minutes. I did so, & was very sleepy. I slept about three quarters of an hour between that & breakfast, when I arose & ate heartily.
            The boat did not reach here this after-noon until after bat. drill, which, by the way, was very short. She brought no mail—at least for our company. Ves. Peebles & Jo. King Jr. came down on her—just on a
 
 
November                                                       1861                                                    49
 
visit I suppose. Mr. King brought me a letter from sister Mattie, who was up spending a while with Uncles Eli’s & Alfred’s families. She was well. But said one of Uncle Eli’s son (Willie) was very low. They fear he will be afflicted through life with a stiffness he has, which the doctors cannot account for. I this eve told Jim G. for the first time my “love-affairs” in regard to my dearest M….. He did not say much about it. I love her, and myself shall never be a hindrance to its continuance.
Friday, Nov’r. 1st.
            Today being “Fast-day”, appointed by the President, we had no drill this morn. I slept till time for breakfast. This morn we came near having nothing to eat—not even did we have sugar to put in our coffee. We will have nothing to do today, more than guard-mounting & dress-parade.
            Last night Col. Buck’s Reg’t. (28th Ala. Vol’s.) was landed at the Cove, and are to take command of the batteries on the beach. More men were much needed here, & we ought, still, to have one more Reg’t., at least. We are now near 2000 strong. In this Reg’t is the “Dixie Boys”—a company from Pickens county, in which Bill McCracken & Bill Dunlap are first & Second Lieuts. I have not been up to see them yet, & do not know when I shall.
            Today the steamer Crescent came over, and we all had to turn out to receive Gen. Withers. But he did not come, so that much (falling out) was for nothing.
 
 
50  November                                                 1861
 
Saturday Nov’r. 16th 1861.
            Last night Fon B., Dick B., & myself, being in quite a wakeful mood, did not go to bed until after 2 A.M. We amused ourselves in various ways—talking, teasing one another, &c. &c.
            This morn I was awaked to drill, feeling as much refreshed as if I had slept the whole night. After drill I was not detailed for guard, as I feared I would be.
            This morn I was detailed to sweep quarters, & was excused from the usual alarm of Saturday mornings.
            Commissary Jo King is very low with the flux at the Hospital. The Dr. says if he does not make a change for the better pretty soon, he will die. The boat did not come over today until near sun-set. She brought a large mail. Jim & I rec’d. a long letter from our dear friend Phil.
Sabbath, Nov’r. 17th
            About 4 O’clock this morn our friend, and fellow soldier, Jo. King sr. breathed his last and long farewell to this vile earth. He did not seem to suffer a great deal. Today has been a long and lonesome day to me.—Nothing to do, and nowhere to go. This after-noon we paid the last tribute of respect to our fellow soldier, Jos. King sr. We marched after his corpse, from the Hospital to the wharf, where his remains was deposited on the steamboat Dorrance. Mr. Ves Peebles and Jo. King jr. went back with the corpse. John King received permission to go also. Messrs. Peebles & Jo. King jr came down in a very good time to show their
 
 
November                                                       1861                                                    51
 
uncle attention.
Monday, Nov’r. 18th.
            After drill this morn, I was detailed on guard. I attended guard-mounting. Was no. 1 of the day-guards, and would have been Corporal of the first relief on the beach tonight; but I sw exchanged posts with No. 2 on the 3rd Gar. relief, which was a good bargain on my part; for No. 2 is a choice post. I stood one hour today from 12 to 1 P.M. at the front Sally-port. The time passed off very pleasantly as I had company all the time. I wrote a good long letter to my dear old friend Phil today. I guess some of the contents of that letter will prove quite surprising to him.—From 6 to 8 P.M. Dick B. stayed with me, while I was on post. We conversed the time away quite agreeably to me.
            This is the first time I have ever been on guard with Serg’t. Fon Billups. He is a very good Sergeant,—not very strict; but, I think, enough so.
Tuesday, Nov’r. 19th
            This morn at 6 A.M. I was awaked to stand my last tour of duty, which I did. At the usual time, guard was mounted, and the old guard was relieved.
            I failed to say that on yesterday, all of our men came down from the batteries to remain here. The other reg’t. now guards the guns. Our co. now has about eighty men reported for duty.
            Today they are raising the flag-staff in the middle of the “Citadel.” It will be over a hundred feet high.—It will wave about seventy five feet above the highest part of the fort.
 
 
52  November                                                 1861
 
I spent the greater portion of this after-noon in sleep. The boat came over at her usual time this eve. None of our men ret’d. She brought the mail; but I rec’d. no letter—was not disappointed, for I looked for none.
            We had no bat. drill this evening.
            Our drill before breakfast is done away with now, and we have no drill until from 8 to 9 A.M. This I consider a “great institution”, for now we can sleep late every morn. Artillery drill is now from 10 to 11 A.M., & bat. drill, as heretofore, 3 P.M.
Wednesday, Nov’r. 20th
            This morn I slept till breakfast, which now will be a common thing, as we have nothing to do until 8 A.M. We had no drill this morn, neither at 8 nor 10 A.M. This was agreeable to the feelings of us all. We had no bat. drill—have had no drill today. I spent all this after-noon in sleep. Nothing new at dress-parade.
            We are having quite warm weather now. We have rec’d. the sad intelligence of the capture of our ministers Slidell & Mason. They were taken from an English vessel in mid-ocean from Cuba to England. England now will have to come out now and show to the world whose side she is on, or ours or the North. If she does not, she will clearly show herself to be a coward!
Thursday Novr. 21st
            This morning after breakfast I was detailed to report at the Ordnance, with several others of our men. We did so. We (about eighty of us—from different companies—) were put to dismounting a cannon—32 pounder.
 
 
November                                                       1861                                                    53
 
We dismounted one, and let two down from the wall. We took one of them to the wharf. We threw it off the “trucks” once by going too fast over a rough place. This detained us some. Our intention was to get both to the wharf ready for the boat; but we did not get either there in time; so we were set free for the day after getting one there.These guns are to be sent to Mobile to be rifled. This is the first time I have been detailed to work, and I hope it may be the last. The mail came over today; but I rec’d. no letter. No news of importance.
            At dress-parade the results of the recent Court Martial in Mobile was read. The punishments of some were severe. One man over at Fort Gaines is to be shot soon, for saying, if he could get out of this army he would join Lincoln’s. Tonight I have written a letter for Tom Luke to his “dearest,” who gave him a favorable answer to his last letter, which I also wrote for him.
            Often do I think of my dearest, and wish that some of my dreams, which are of her, were realities—then I could hold “converse sweet” with her, and tell her by the look of my eye, as well as, tell her with my lips and heart, that I loved her devotedly.
Friday, Nov’r. 22nd.
            This morn I slowly and reluctantly arose to late breakfast. I did not attend morning drill, as I was excused having been on work-detail yesterday. I attended Artillery drill at the usual hour. We have the report here of a fight going on now at Pensacola. I do not believe it; but if
 
 
54  November                                                 1861
 
it is so, I hope & trust that the “God of battles”, who has shown himself for us heretofore, will preside on our side there, and crown us again with a signal victory, which may induce the wrathful enemy to cease their folly, and turn their ears to wisdom, and offer terms of peace, which none can desire more than myself.
            We had no bat. drill this afternoon.
            Tonight a good deal of excitement exists in the fort on account of the telegraphic dispatch that four of our steamboats running between New Orleans & Mobile were taken near Grant’s Pass. If this is so, they may come into Grant’s Pass & Fort Gaines as friends, and take possession of these places. This looks somewhat alarming! The enemy so near us, and if they get those two places, will be apt to take Mobile, & cut us off from supplies; which if they do, we might as well give up! But I hope for better.
Saturday, Nov’r. 23rd
            On yesterday I read the novel, “Rena; & the Snowbird”—by Mrs Lee Hentz. It was a splendid thing. Showed the strength and durability of first love.
            This morn it is reported that fighting was going at Grant’s Pass; but I do not believe it; for it seems to me we could hear the firing of the guns.—At the usual hour—8 A.M.—we attended the usual Saturday morning alarm. We were kept on the wall about three quarters of an hour.
 
 
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The steamboats, Crescent & Bagalay came over this after-noon. The former brought over a few beautiful young ladies. On the latter, Rob’t. Bunn, Wm Goin and Jas. McKinstry came from home. They brought a good many letters; but none for me. I got no letter by the mail—was somewhat disappointed, as I expected one from my “dearest.”
            Today has been pretty cool and windy.—A good day for fishing.
Sabbath, Nov’r. 24th
            This morn after inspection I was detailed on guard. Our detail was placed on the gar. guard today, which was quite agreeable to us. Mine is post No. 21. I will stand up on the gar. wall,—a very good place—tonight. Today I finished reading a book, which I commenced last night—styled, “The Devil in America—blank verse. It is a good work, and shows very clearly the state of depravity and demoralization into which our country is fast progressing.
            Today we heard that the fight was still going on at Pensacola. We learned that our loss up to that time, was five killed, and ten or twelve wounded. This is not very reliable, as the telegraph is not allowed to operate, by command of Gen. Bragg. Our officers must be expecting an attack; for all day men have been at work, mounting a dahlgreen—a thing uncommon for Sunday. We now have eighty seven guns mounted—about seventy of which are rifled; and are still mounting more almost daily.
            We are going to have a pretty cold time tonight.
 
 
56  November                                                 1861
 
Monday, Nov’r. 25th 1861.
            This morn I was awaked 7 O’clock to stand my last tour of duty. Last night Rob’t. Bunn & I made us a pallet at the guard shelter, and had quite a comfortable bed. Our time on guard passed off very pleasantly.
            This morn we had no drills as there was a large detail made to mount cannons. They are now mounting a rifled-24-pounder—the first rifled gun of that size.
            This after-noon the steamboats Bagalay & Crescent came over. This was not the regular day for the boat; so she did not bring the mail. I do not know what their business was. The Bagalay brought over 1000lbs Powder, besides about 10,000 musket cartridges. We have not enough powder yet. Our whole Magazine is about 75,000lbs.
            No bat. drill this eve.
Tuesday, Nov’r.26th
            This morn twenty men were detailed to report at the Ordnance. I was among the number from our co. We were put to hauling cannon to the wharf. We got three thru there by about 11 A.M. After which, we dismounted one of the eight inch Columbiads in the casemate, hauled it out & raised it to the top of the wall. We were then dismissed for dinner. After dinner we raised the gun to the top of the carriage, & had it almost mounted when Gen. Withers (who had just come over on the Crescent ordered it to be taken to the wharf & ready for the Bagalay, which was then near the wharf.
 
 
November                                                       1861                                                    57
 
Our detail was dismissed, and a new detail from each co. larger than the one of this morn took our place.
            The Bagalay brought the mail, but, to my disappointment, I did not get a letter. I was somewhat expecting a letter from her I love; but ought not to feel disappointed, as it has not been two weeks since I wrote to her.
            Both of our eight inch columbiads were dismounted this eve & taken to the boat. I have understood that they were to be taken to Pensacola. The news from that place today is, the enemy have ceased firing,—seven war vessels in sight in a line of battle.
Wednesday Nov’r. 27th
            This morn after breakfast fifteen of our men were detailed to work. I just did escape this, and luckily was it for me. No drills this morn, for the reason that the working & guard details leave but a few men who could drill.
            I was detailed about 12 M. to police around the fort. I did not do anything; but when the “policing squad” came by our eating quarters, I stopped & took dinner; after which I went to the guard-house & there found that my crowd had finished their work.
            Two rifled cannon—32-pounders—were mounted today. No bat. drill, nor dress-parade this evening.
            I failed to mention a few days ago that we had hired a cook from J. G. Gardner in Mobile. He was a good boy, but proved to be no cook. We sent him back—by the last boat; & have since
 
 
58  November                                                 1861
 
hired Ed for fifteen dollars per month. We now can take that authority over the “gentleman” which, heretofore, we have felt a delicacy.
Thursday Nov’r. 28th
            This morn I did not get up until after breakfast, when I found that a part (the hoggish part) of our mess had eaten every thing that was desirable on our table. I am sorry to say that we have one or two men in our mess that are not capable of defining the term gentleman.
            I was not detailed for guard this morn as I expected I should be; but will almost surely “come on” tomorrow. There is no work to be done today. We are having no morning drill. I do not know why.
            At the usual hour (9 A.M.) we had to attend artillery drill. Nothing new was learned. This morn I wrote to Aunt Martha & finished a letter to sister Mattie, which I failed to send off by the last mail. Today the boat came over about 1 P.M. I rec’d. a letter from pa, who said all were well. He informed me that bro. Andw. had another daughter, & that he & sister Mattie were going to make him a visit soon.
            I also rec’d. a letter from Mag. Crawford, in which she sent back my letters, & requested me to write to her no more! This greatly surprised me, for from her last to me one would infer that she was “all right.” She “cut” me in several places worse than I ever was before. She gave me “cut” all through hers. I do not know yet whether or not I shall answer it. I am very glad it turned out so—especially before carried forth.
 
 
November                                                       1861                                                    59
 
Friday, November 29th 1861.
            This morn I was detailed for guard. So was Dick B. who goes on his first time as Sergeant. He has recently been appointed our 5th Sergt. We attended guard-mounting. I was on the extreme left of the guard & was not needed; so my name was not taken. Today I answered my “cutting letter” in which I think I gave her as good as she sent. I wrote nothing to insult the woman; but filled mine with irony—and endeavored to show her her inconsistency in the two letters she wrote me.
            Today the work-detail have been mounting a large rifled dahlgreen which came over yesterday. We are getting pretty well armed now, and I expect will have several guns more before we stop.
            In regard to the feeble point of a man—i.e. the monomania which seizes him when he idolizes a woman—in regard to all affairs pertaining to love, I feel that I can [?] say:—
            “The conflict is over, the struggle is past,
            I have looked, I have loved, I have worshipped my last,
            Now back to the world, and let fate do her worst,
            On that heart that for ‘women’ such devotion hath nursed.”
            No, never will I pay such homage to women as I have done, which I admit, as the young lady said was owing to our “extreme youth.” In regard to this woman (M.C.) I feel:—
            “The last link is broken,
                        That bound me to thee;
            The words thou hast spoken
                        Have rendered me free!
 
 
60  November                                                 1861
 
            I have not stood guard at all today; nor will I tonight for my name is not on the guard-book at all. This is quite lucky for me.
            This has been quite a warm day. This has been a remarkable fall—scarcely any cold weather, and a great deal of very warm.
Saturday, Nov’r. 30th
            This morn I awoke feeling quite refreshed. I saw last eve that my name was not on the guard-book, so I slept in my quarters. Quite light guard-duty was that,—not standing at all, and sleeping in my quarters.
            This morning Dick B. & I expected to go up to the Cove to see our friend in among the “Dixie Boys”; but was disappointed. Col. Maury said he wished the dahlgreen mounted today, & he wished all the men here in case he should require a large detail. He said we could go up tomorrow.
            I went to the wharf & fished awhile this morn as the wind was pretty high (which is usually a good time for fishing) I did not fish long before I despaired, as I did not get a bite. Some were ketching a few.
            This after-noon the Crescent came over in the Bagalay’s stead. Jno. King & Reid ret’d. from their respective homes, where they had been on furlough. Jno. King brought me a letter each, from Cousins Mollie & Becca Going. By the mail, I rec’d. a letter from bro. Andw; & surprised I must confess I was on its reception; for I had not rec’d. a letter from him in so long a time that I had concluded he had forgotten me. I was very glad indeed to hear from him, & to hear his family was enjoying good health.
 
 
December                                                       1861                                                    61
 
Sabbath, Dec’r. 1st 1861.
            This the first day of the month, and the first day of the season (Winter) is quite a warm & beautiful day.
            This morn the general inspection & muster was passed through, with all the forms connected with it. It was not the regular time, as, usually, it comes off every two months, which, in a regular course of things, would be the first day of Jan’y. I cannot account for their having it today. We were detained by this muster so long, that I gave out going up to the Cove. Today,—notwithstanding it is the “day of rest”—Col. M. has been trying the rifled Dahlgreens. Some splendid shots were made—some almost reaching Pelican Island—a distance of six miles.
            This after-noon Dick B. & I strolled about, walking about the beach. I took this walk, more to keep from going to sleep than anything else, as I have got into the habit of sleeping in the after-noon, & then can’t sleep at night.
            I showed Fon B. all the correspondence of Mag. C. to me, & also showed the last reply made by myself. He justified my acts, which, I think, any sensible man would do.
Monday Dec’r. 2nd
            This morning Lieut. Casey & Serg’t. Thompson (Ordnance Serg’t.) are reported as lost! They went over to Fort Gaines yesterday in a small boat, with the intention of returning last evening. It is supposed that the boat was upset & they drowned. Casey’s coat & the sails of the boat were found near the wharf this morn. It is quite a lamentable occurrence.
 
 
62  December                                                 1861
 
I hope they may yet be found, all safe; but circumstances are very strong against them.
            Last night a small schooner (Confederate) passed out. She was going to Cuba, provided the blocade did not seize her. I fear she will not prove as successful as did our other schooner about a month ago.
            My old college-mate, Frank Smith came over today from Fort Gaines,where he is stationed. He is 2nd Lieut. in a company over there. I was glad to see him.
            I feel very dull & sleepy this eve, but hate to go to sleep—knowing that if I do, my night’s rest will be destroyed. I did sleep about an hour this P.M. We have had no drills now for near two weeks on account of having cannon to mount. Today boats have been out in search of our lost men, but nothing of them has been seen more than the finding of the coat & sails. The Crescent came over from Mobile this eve to look for them.
Tuesday, Dec’r. 3rd 1861.
            Last night I did not go to bed until 12 O’clock P.M. A crowd of us wasted some potatoes & had a nice time. A detail was called today to haul the old Spanish cannons here to the wharf, where they are to be taken from to Mobile, I suppose.—The Crescent came in today about 10 A.M.; but brought no intelligence in regard to our lost men.
            The wind was so strong & the waves so high that the boat (reg. packet) had to land at the Cove. To my great surprise a letter came addressed to me, which on its perusal I found to be from Mag C. It was begging my pardon for her “abruptness” towards me in her last;—desiring that
 
 
December                                                       1861                                                    63
 
friendship of “childhood” to still exist between us—&c. &c. I shall treat hers with “silent contempt”, and were the secrets of my heart made known, not one spark of friendship would there be found to exist for her!—
            At dress-parade an order was issued, that the flag would remain “half-masted” from sunrise to sunset, in honor of our lost, who are supposed to be drowned. Also on tomorrow no duty—save guard-duty—will be required, and the reg’t. will wear a badge of mourning for thirty days. Today has been quite cold.
Wednesday Dec’r. 4th—
                                                                                                                        The fifty
seventh birth-day of my much respected father. He, too, is gradually coming on the list of “aged”!—
            Last night about 12 O’clock we were awaked by an alarm given by our picket guard. They fired at one of our schooners which was trying to pass out. This caused a great deal of excitement; but it soon passed away, & we again delivered ourselves into the “arms of Morpheus.”
            This morn, as was the order yester eve, the flag was half-mast.
            Today I have spent almost exclusively to the reading of “The Curse of Clifton.” It is quite an interesting novel. I have followed novel-reading here more than in my whole life before; for here time drags so slowly off that unless we have something with which to pass off our time, a
 
 
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day would appear an age.
            Nothing new at dress-parade this eve. This has been quite a cold day.
Thursday, Dec’r. 5th
            This morn I was detailed for guard. Have been to guard-mount—am No. 23 on the 3rd Relief—Will be down on the beach tonight, and will have quite a cold time.
            About noon the Crescent came over, bringing Gen. Withers & his staff. About one P.M. the steamboats, Baltic & Keys came over—The former is now our reg. packet. The latter brought a great many pretty ladies. I was on post upon the gar. wall where I could see all the ladies. Lieut. Best came by my post accompanied by Mr. & Miss Cranford of Mobile, whom he introduced to me as “cousins to Miss Mag!” I need not attempt a description of my feelings. Suffice it to say, they were anything but pleasant, and I was more than glad when they left me. Miss. C. favored the “used to be” Miss Mary C.
            A flag was presented today to the “Beulah Guard” (a company in Buck’s reg’t. from Mobile) by Miss Augusta J. Evans (the authoress of Beulah.) On presenting the flag she delivered an eloquent, patriotic & pathetic address to the company—such ability I never witnessed in a woman before. She seemed to be the perfect embodiment of intellect! She had the most piercing eye I ever beheld. She is not very pretty; but she has a charm about her that almost demands reverence. She has a noble—sublime countenance and, upon the whole, she was the most attractive being I ever laid eyes upon!
 
 
December                                                       1861                                                    65
 
I saw my old college & class-mate, Hub. Pierce this eve. He is a 1st Lieut. in a company stationed at the Cove. I am very glad he is there—I will be able to see him frequently. Lieut. Best, C. H. Barham & Cooper went started home on the boat this eve. All on sick-furloughs. There is some talk of Col. Powers’ being sent here to take command of this Post & Fort Gaines, which if he does he will supercede Maury. Maury says if he does, he (Maury) will resign, & I will not blame him—
Friday, Dec’r. 6th
            I had quite a cold time on guard last night—did not sleep more than three hours. This morn at day-light we came off of post—ate breakfast earlier than common.—I failed to say that several days ago I wrote to Hon. S. F. Hale asking his assistance in obtaining a position in the Reg. Army C.S.A. I do not know what will be my success; but think I have reasons to hope.—This morn I slept about three & a half hours as soundly as I ever slept in my life. I awaked feeling quite refreshed. We had no bat. drill this after-noon. Maj. Morgan commanded at dress-parade. Nothing new. It is not so cold as the few previous days have been.
Saturday Dec’r. 7th
            This morn after breakfast, Dick B., Jim Williams, Milt. Lofton & myself got a pass to go up to see the “Dixie Boys”—stationed at the Cove. We called to see Hub. Pierce on our way, & spent about an hour very pleasantly. We then went on to the camp of Capt. Davis. There I met up with my old friends & classmates [?] and McCracken. They
 
 
66  December                                                 1861
 
are the 1st &2nd Lieuts. in their company. I did not find many of my acquaintances in their company. Bill Howard (an old acquaintance of mine) is 2nd Serg’t. in it. Col. Maury ordered this co. down to the fort yesterday evening. They came & are going to quarter in one of the houses outside. We gave the whole company their supper. They did not like their move much; but I hope when they get fixed up they will be better pleased. Col. M. said a few words to them in which he complimented us. He told them he was allowed the privilege of bringing one of Col. Buck’s companies down, & knowing that they came from the same county the “Lane Guards” did, he knew they would do. This I think was quite flattering to us.
Sabbath Dec’r. 8th
            Last night Jno. McG. slept with me. We did not get up until late breakfast. Partook heartily of my morning meal. Inspection was in front of our quarters this morn—hence, did not amount to much. I spent the greater portion of this after-noon in sleeping. When I waked up I found that the Crescent was at the wharf. I do not know what her business was. She brought no mail. She brought the news that Serg’t. Thompson was found near Fort Gaines floating out with the tide. He was taken up & buried. Poor fellows! doubtless they all are drowned! We were expecting to have preaching this eve by a Mr. Hawthorne (Chap. of this upper reg’t.) but were disappointed. I have not heard a sermon in four months. It would be something new to me now. This has been quite a warm day.
 
 
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Monday Dec’r. 9th 1861.
            This morn I did not wake until time for drill—consequently, did not get my breakfast until after drill. This was the first time I have been to morning drill since it was changed from before to after breakfast.—Did not learned anything new.
            At Artillery drill we practised firing. Made a few good shots—a good many bad ones. The old blocade vessels both fired several guns, seeming to think if we could waste powder they could. This after-noon, as usual, I spent in sleep. At dress-parade the order was read that the Inspector General Slaughter would be here tomorrow, 10 A.M. to inspect everything pertaining to the fort.
Tuesday Dec’r. 10th
            This morn I was detailed for guard. I have attended Guard-mounting; and am on the 3rd Relief, Post No. 4—a very good place.
            The Ins. Gen. did not get over by 10 A.M. but arrived about 12 M. He directly had the battalion formed on the parade ground and straightway commenced. He is examining every gun thoroughly. The Baltic (Reg. packet) came over about the usual time. Jim & I rec’d. a letter from our dear old friend Phil. He was well, & in pretty good spirits. The inspection is going on very slowly, as the inspector is going through the minutia of his task.
            He suspended inspecting a little before sunset to resume his task at 71/2 A.M. tomorrow. He finished five companies—just half this reg’t.
 
 
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Wednesday Dec’r.11th 1861.
            Last night was a very pleasant time for standing guard—a little cool. I was awaked this morn at 6 O’clock to stand my last tour of duty, which I did.
            Inspection again commenced at the appointed time. He inspected our company first. I expect being on guard will excuse me from his observing eye.
            I spent the whole of this morn in sleep. I suppose the Inspector put the reg’t. through bat. drill this morn. He also drilled them all in Artillery. He has gone up to the other reg’t. left here about 1 P.M.
            Col. M. I suppose has handed in his resignation. The Captains of this reg’t. are to meet this eve to petition him to withdraw his resignation. (Later) The Capt’s. prevailed on the Colonel & he withdrew his resignation. We had no dress parade this eve. Hauled an 8 in. Dahlgreen from the wharf, mounted, & fired it in two hours time. 250 men were detailed.
Thursday Dec’r. 12th
            This morn I arose to breakfast; immediately after which I attended morning drill—also at the usual time I attended artillery drill. This morn I wrote a good long letter to my dear friend Phil. I have been a little unwell for a few days past—having a very bad cold.
            Today the boat came over at her usual time. The mail came, but I received no letters—was not at all disappointed.
 
 
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            I failed to state that my old acquaintance, Dr. Reid, of Tuscaloosa, came over on the last Tuesday, for the purpose of trying some shells of his own invention. He went over to Mobile today—guess he will be back in a few days.
            Nothing new today.
Friday Dec’r. 13th
            This morn, I attended both morning and artillery drill. Did not learn anything new.
This day has passed away as many days have passed—the time dragging of slowly with the dull and monotonous scenes that characterize this place.
            We had no battalion drill this after-noon nor have not had in about three weeks. I think our officers are getting about as tired of the drilling, as well as the privates.
Saturday, Dec’r. 14th
            This morn we did not have the usual Saturday morn Al[?] I went up to the quarters of the “Dixie Boys” & spent about an hour very pleasantly with my friends. Serg’t. Howard & myself then returned to the fort. On my arrival I learned I was detailed to assist in dismounting & hauling to the wharf the two 32 pound guns in our battery—“Bastion” No. 3. I followed the detail, but, not feeling well, I did no work. Today an old acquaintance of mine—Tom Haynes, whom I had not seen for eight or ten years made himself known to me. He be-
 
 
70  December                                                 1861
 
longs to a company in Col. Buck’s reg’t. He was the “last man in the world” whom I expected to see.
            The boat came over about 1 P.M. & we only got one of our cannons on her; the other we got to the wharf. The mail was brought over, & somewhat to my surprise, I rec’d. a letter from Mag. C., who wrote me a rough letter; but I think it does not require an answer. I feel that I have the advantage of her, & the advantage I intend to keep. I have all the letters she ever wrote to me; and all I ever wrote to her she has sent to me. I shall retain all of hers in order that I may at a future day be able to rehearse her follies, & glory in my victory.
            Tonight we learned the painful news that our gallant Colonel Harry Maury was to be superceded, and that he (Col. M.) was going to resign & leave us on tomorrow!! Several of us went over & serenaded him, upon which he invited us to his bed-room on account of his illness. We went and a touching scene it was! The Col. expressed his feelings of ardent affection for the Magnolia Regement, which was answered by a few—but eloquent remarks from Messrs Scott & Billups. The Col. then said he wished a warm shake of the hand from each of us and I not need not say he not only received a shake of the hand, but also a large place in the heart from each of us!
 
 
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Sabbath Dec’r. 15th 1861.
            This morn I arose to breakfast and freely & largely partook of my morning meal. After breakfast there was a company inspection of arms &c. The Crescent came over early this morning bringing Col. Powell, the man who supercedes Col. M. About the same time Col. Maury went to the wharf followed by a host of his men. There he took a last sad farewell to his reg’t. & entered his row-boat for Fort Gaines!!! We cheered him & the course he pursued. Never did I see the sums sympathies of men so unanimously aroused, as did our regement seem to regret parting with him. Still I would not have him stay with us under existing circumstances.
            This after-noon, while sleeping sweetly, I was awaked to go to the Picket & report for duty in Carver’s stead. I very reluctantly did so. I stood from 4 to 6 P.M., when I returned for my supper. I shall not go out until 8 P.M. as I am not required to be there until 10 o’clock P.M.
Monday Dec’r. 16th
            Last night was a beautiful time to stand guard—but it was a little cold. At 2 o’clock this morn Ruf Wilder was taken sick. Ches Hughes was sent in his place. He (Ches) will get off light,—having but one tour of duty to undergo. I stood at the Hospital & had quite a lonely time; but a good time for soliloquising.
 
 
72  December                                                 1861
 
            This morn after I got my breakfast I went out to the Pick. guard-house & remained for the dismounting of the old guard. We were set free about the usual time. A detail was taken from the “Dixie Boys” for the first time this morning. Today Adjutant McClung threw up his office, not wishing to act under Morgan. Major Morgan then sent for Lieut. Robinson wishing him to accept. But Robinson swore he never would have it. Then they sent for Lieut. Gregard, who accepted the office. I learn from our officers that he can scarcely write his name. A nice man that to hold the responsible position as Adj’t. I suppose that Morgan also has resigned. We are having quite a revolution in the fort now. Col. Powell says the first officer who gets drunk he will have cashiered. Today I have been a good-deal sick with a cold & sore-throat.
Tuesday Dec’r.17th
            Last night I suffered very much with my cold & sore-throat. I awoke about 7 o’clock this morn feeling but little, if any better. I went up to the Hospital directly I was awaked, not even eating any breakfast. I was excused from all duty for today by the Surgeon.
            Had artillery drill at the usual hour this morn. At dinner I took my medicine, and drank a cup of coffee, eating a small piece of corn-bread.
            We heard this morn that Col.
 
 
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Buck had ordered the “Dixie Boys” up to his quarters—this is so. We also heard this morn that that whole Regement was ordered to Pensacola. I hope it is not so; for they are company for me. The order for the “Dixie Boys” to attend Col. Buck was countermanded; and the report of the other order was false.
            Morgan has resigned without a doubt, & McClung has again taken his place as Adjutant. This after-noon there was bat. drill, for the first time in more than a month. I feel some better tonight; though I have some fever.
Wednesday Dec’r. 18th
            Last night I had a very high fever, and, consequently, did not rest very well. I arose this morn feeling some better. I drank a cup of coffee for breakfast, & then went to the Hospital where I was excused from all duty for today. I have a very bad taste in my mouth & some a slight head-ache.
            The drills went on today as usual. There is a good deal of excitement now existing in our company as to who shall be our 3rd Lieutenant. The candidates are, Salmond, Dock McKinstry, Jim Williams, Boughton & myself. I expect Jim Williams will be the successful candidate. We have commenced this excitement rather soon it strikes me; for our Capt. has not yet been promoted, and, as a matter of course, this election cannot be until he has taken his higher position.
            Today has been very pleasant.
 
 
74  December                                                 1861
 
Thursday Dec’r. 19th 1861.
            This morn I awoke feeling much better than I have for several days previous. After taking a cup of coffee I went to the Hospital & was excused for the day. I rec’d. a bottle of medicine to take for my cold.
            I have just written a letter to Coz. Becca Going, also a note to Coz. Mollie G. These letters I expect to send up by Lieut. Wells who has a furlough to go home, & will start today if the boat comes. I sent my type to Coz. Mollie, asking her to deliver it to Ma for me.
            I took a dose of my cough medicine this morn & it made me very sick for two or three hours.
            The boat came over about the usual hour this after-noon, and a good many ladies came on her. Among them was Mrs. Weaver, whom I was very glad to see. She Ji asked Jim & me to dine with her Christmas day, and if I can get a furlough to visit Mobile, I shall be happy to accept the invitation.
            Dr. Anderson & Lt. Best ret’d. from home today. The Dr. brought me some things from home & a couple of letters from home—one from Mattie & one from Mary. All were well at home; but I was sorry indeed to learn that Uncle Hood was not expected to live.
            Hugh McGowen came over today. I suppose he is only on a visit, & guess he will remain with us until after Christmas.
            I am feeling pretty well this after-noon.
 
 
December                                                       1861                                                    75
 
Friday Dec’r. 20th 1861.
            Last night I could not go to sleep; so I got up & set by the fire. My friend, Bill Spillman was in the same condition in which I was. We set up & talked till after 12 O’clock, & then went to our bunks with the resolutions to try to force sleep to take hold of us.
            This morn I did not wake until after all had eaten breakfast. I felt pretty well, and did not go to the Hospital. I attended company drill; but we were soon dismissed on account of a small shower of rain.
            I failed to say that on yesterday Mike Gaskin & Alex Rogers obtained “10-day” furloughs to go home. We are now to be allowed two men to go home every ten days. I do not expect my time will come again before March.
            This after-noon I attended bat. drill for the first time in a long while. Capt. Forney read us a letter from Col. Maury, wishing to know if the Reg’t. was willing to reenlist under him? We like the Col. very much; but far from reenlisting in this place am I and the majority of us composing this regement.
            Our brag gunboat, Florida, came over here this after-noon, and she appears to be a strong vessel. She has six guns on her—four large cannon & two small brass pieces. About 5 P.M. I was detailed to take Thomas’ place on guard, who was taken sick. I did so, although I was not more than well myself.
 
 
76  December                                                 1861
 
Saturday Dec’r. 21st 1861.
            This morn I arose & ate my breakfast before my time to go on duty. I stood at my regular times last night, & do not feel at all worsted this morn. I failed to say that Capt. Forney did away with our Picket guard yesterday. This met with the approbation of every soldier in the ft. for picket duty is always the worst. Our guard duty will be a great deal lighter now.
            The boat came over about the usual time. She brought no beef today, & when she brings no beef, we have “a little of nothing” to eat. The mail came & I received two letters—one from my old friend Fos Clements, who I had concluded had cast me into oblivion; but I was happy to find that I still had a place among his list of friends. I also rec’d. a letter from Annie. I had not heard from her in a long while before, & was more than glad to hear from her.
            Tonight some of our boys got to drinking, & a quarrel ensued between L. D. Bailey & O. S. McKinstry—the quarrel terminated in a fight. McKinstry was whipped. The Capt. had them both put in the guard-house, where they soon made friends. So much for whiskey. Nothing would please me better than a complete blocade to whiskey coming to this place the remainder of our time.
            Today Col. Bradford ret’d. from home. He now is our Col. & I understand he will hold his office.
            This has been a warm day.
 
 
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Sabbath Dec’r. 22nd 1861.
            Last night I slept with Dick B. This morn we were awaked to late breakfast; directly after which we attended company inspection.
            There is some talk of paying us off today. I think it is time; for we have not been paid in near four months, and I am beginning to need mine, for I am about out.
            Today it is cloudy and warm and raining a little. I hope we will have one good rain, for everything is quite dry.
This after-noon I wished to go to the Hospital to see Jas. A. Gibson who is there sick with the Pneumonia; but did not go on account of rain.
Capt. Lanier started to Mobile this after-noon to get our Pay Rolls signed; I guess we will be paid off as soon as he returns.
Monday Dec’r. 23rd.
            This morn I was awaked to breakfast, of which I heartily partook. After breakfast we drilled, and quite a cold drill was it; for it is very cold & windy today.
            About 10 o’clock this morn we were marched out to the beach, where we were set to filling sand-bags. We filled a great many by dinner, when we were “let loose” until about 1 P.M. These sand-bags are to be carried upon the gar. wall where they are to be placed to protect our guns, so that in an engagement they may not so easily be dismounted. I think this is a very good idea, & ought to have been done long ago.
 
 
78  December                                                 1861
 
            This after-noon we commenced hoisting our sand-bags, & get along very slowly, but when we get good fixed will work faster.
            Tonight the Crescent came over & landed at the Cove. Jasper Massey came over on her. He has been at home for near three months on a sick furlough; but looks as stout & robust as any of us. Dick Massey came over with him—just on a visit I suppose. I understand that the Capt. came over on the Crescent; but will not be down until morning.
Tuesday Dec’r. 24th
            This morn I did not arise until after every one had eaten breakfast, when I freely partook of the cold morsel that was left for me.
            We went to work about 8 A.M. & continued to work until about 10 A.M. when we were dismissed to get our pay. My old college-mate Jno. Jones came down this morn on the Crescent. I was truly glad to see him. He is a private in Hub. Pierce’s company. We are having some of the coldest weather now we have had this season. About noon today the Florida went out & challenged the blockading vessel (supposed to be the Massachusetts) for a fight by firing three times on her. The “blocade” directly turned and returned her fire. They fired twenty or thirty rounds apiece, when both ceased firing. The Florida returned unhurt. It is thought she hit the Massachusetts three times. Both shot well. It was the prettiest sight I ever witnessed. It was about three miles from here & we could
 
 
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see everything that transpired very plainly.
            Jim G. sent in our furloughs to visit Mobile this morn, &, to my surprise we were successful in getting them signed. We, with B. J. Boon who has rec’d. a discharge on account of bad health, arrived in the city about 9 o’clock tonight. We are now at the Roper House. I never before saw as quiet a Christmas eve as this,—not even in the country.
Wednesday—Christmas Day 1861.
            This morn I arose about day-light. I see no appearance whatever of the celebration of this day.
            After Jim & I ate breakfast we went round & did the little shopping we had to do first thing. About 101/2 A.M. we put on our “duds” & went up to Mr. Weaver’s. There we found no one but Mrs. W. About 12 M. Mr. W. came with Parson Burgess & Capt. & Lieut. Hodges. These gentlemen are all stationed down about Dog River. They appeared to be very nice gentlemen. It was about 1 P.M. when Misses Mary & Hattie Horton called in. They spent the remainder of the day at Mr. Weaver’s. Now I have a task I am incompetent to fulfil—the task of expressing my opinion of these ladies. I was highly pleased with them. They are very pretty, and appeared to be good, and last, but far from least, they seemed to be highly accomplished, and quite literary. I am almost in love with Miss Hattie—the younger of the two. I guess she is about sixteen summers. Jim & I walked home with them, & they
 
 
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very kindly invited us to call to see them as we passed through Mobile, which I shall take great pleasure in doing. I also had the pleasure of forming the acquaintance of a Miss Chapman who was a very pleasant lady; but I was not near so highly pleased with her as I was with the Misses Horton.
            I failed to say that Col. Maury retd to this place the fort by the last boat to take charge of his reg’t. pretending that Gen. Bragg had sent him back; but I only believe my part of that. He has lowered himself in my estimation.
Thursday Dec’r. 26th
            This day 12 months ago I bid adieu to the College walls of the Univ. of Ala. and it seems to me as though it was only yesterday
            This morn we did not get breakfast until 8 oclock, and were pushed to get to the boat in time to return to the fort. We left Mr. Weaver’s immediately after breakfast, & left the city about 9 A.M. We came by Fort Gaines, where I saw my old college-mates & friends, Lieuts. H. Austill & F. Smith. Austill was off. of the Day.
            We reached Fort Morgan about 2 o’clock P.M. where we found everything going on as usual; but was sorry to learn that a “row” had taken place here on last Tuesday night among several of the companies—was happy to learn our co. was quiet. The “Polk Walker Rifles” in their drunken revelry killed one of their own men Dead! & I learn the man who was killed was perfectly innocent, & was dragged
 
 
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from his Bunk while asleep & butchered to death with bayonets. This is quite a serious affair. Three men are now in the guard-house, in irons & not allowed to speak. I guess some of them, at least, will suffer death for it.
            This shows what whiskey will do, and we see its effects almost daily, and strange as it may appear, men will still suffer themselves to be overcome by the poisonous draught.
            Hugh McGowen left us today, on his return home.
Friday Dec’r. 27th
            This morn I was detailed for guard, and attended guard-mounting at the usual time. Col. M., by the way, on his return had the guard increased, and it now is just as it was when he left. So this morn I was so unlucky as to come on the Picket. My Post is No. 7 3rd relief—not at all desirable. And unless the weather changes I will have a very cold time. Lt. Mitchell is off. of the picket guard, and I like him finely.
            This morn about sunrise a small confederate schooner succeeded in running the blocade & came in under the protection of our guns when she cast anchor & stopped on account of the heavy north wind. While there one of the blocading vessels came up & fired more than a dozen times at her, seeming to want to board her. We fired several times at her (the blocading vessel) but neither hers or our shots reached their aim; but our
 
 
82  December                                                 1861
 
guns made some of the best shots I ever saw. This after-noon the Crescent brought the load of this schooner around the point, and she (the schooner) also came in. I suppose she had about 150 sacks of coffee,—a good deal of Salt-petre, Sulphur, &c. aboard.
Saturday Dec’r. 28th
            Last night we had a very cold time on guard. This morn I stood my last tour of duty from 6 to 8 o’clock, and I was more than glad to be relieved.
            Gen’l’s. Bragg & Withers are over this morn. It is the first time I ever saw Bragg. He is a tall man, & looks to be about fifty years old.
            The boat came over this after-noon about 2 oclock. She brought but few visitors—none of my acquaintance. The mail came, & I received a letter from my true friend Phil. He was very well. I failed to say that I received a letter from Kit Clark a few days since. He has had a great deal of sickness. He has had the measles, mumps & Typhoid fever; but had recovered his health when he wrote.
            I spent the greater part of this after-noon in sleep.
            It has turned a good deal warmer today.
Sabbath Decr. 29th
            This morn I did arise until late breakfast. After this we had company inspection about the usual time—about 9 o’clock.
 
 
December                                                       1861                                                    83
 
Last night the Myramond—the largest steamship in this port succeeded in running the blocade. I hope she may make a safe trip, which if she does she will bring us a large cargo, for she is a large vessel.
            This has been a long dull day, nothing at all transpiring worthy of mention. Dick B. & I spent the greater portion of this after-noon in strolling over the point.
Monday Dec’r. 30th
            This morn I arose to late breakfast. I failed to say that Capt. Forney was promoted to Major a few days since, making Capt. Lanier senior Capt. of this reg’t. & our company will now take its position on the right of the battalion. Our detail for guard went to the right this morn. Directly after breakfast our company went to work raising & placing sand-bags. This after-noon we were relieved by details from other companies. We will resume our work in about two hours.
            The Crescent came over this after-noon bringing the news that our ministers, Mason & Slidell were relieved. I do not know how much truth is in this report; but England has demanded them & if they do not give them up war will necessarily ensue between her & England. I hope the North will not give them up.
            Today the weather is quite pleasant.
 
 
84  December                                                 1861
 
Tuesday Decr. 31st 1861
            Last night a Roman Catholic priest was to preach outside the fort. I went through curiosity to hear him, as I never had seen their ceremonies. He did not preach, but delivered a lecture on the “Duty of Soldiers.” He advanced some new ideas to me; but he did not go through with any of his Catholic ceremonies, except in his prayer, in which he made peculiar gestures & prayed to the “Holy Mary.”
            This morn another schooner succeeded in “running the blocade” and getting in. This is getting to be a common thing, & shows the inefficiency of “old Abe’s” blocade.
            I was detailed for guard this morn, & I was again so unlucky as to come on the picket. I will have a better time tonight than I did the last time I was on guard.
            The boat came over at her usual time this after-noon. No visitors at all came. The mail came; but I received no letter,—was not much disappointed.
            Thus the major part of this year has been past—spending our time, which is dear to each & every one of us, in this dull place, away from home and friends, in the service of our much loved country. Under no other considerations would I exchange home, with its pleasures & dear associations, for this place from which springs
 
 
December                                                       1861                                                    85
 
no good, and which is anything but pleasant & congenial to my feelings.
This year has almost closed, and we are about to enter upon a new series of months. Who can reflect upon the past 12 months and not feel remorse & sorrow for some act or acts done during that period?
 
 
86                                                        January
 
1862
Wednesday January 1st 1862
                                                            This page, entirely unblemished, I begin the new year. I, like many others, have made good resolutions, and think I will carry them out.
            This is a very dull day—more especially for New Year’s day. Our company is working at their sand-bags today; but I am excused until after dinner as I have just come off guard. I can say, the first thing I did in 1862 was to be relieved from my post, as I came off of post last night at 12 P.M.
            Today I wrote three letters—one each to my friends Fos C., J. T. Mc, & Kit C. I have not written to either of the three in some time before.
            This day has been celebrated by our company, by carrying and placing sand-bags! I never saw a new year’s day pass away so little noticed.
            This P.M. all the companies were required to attend dress-parade—No orders at all were read.
Thursday Jan’y 2nd.
            I am now assistant cook; but did not rise from my slumbers this morn until breakfast was prepared.
            The Crescent came over last night with papers stating that Gen Bragg had “opened fire” upon Fort Pickens. I do not give this report much belief; but if it is so, I have sufficient confidence in Bragg to believe he will come out victorious.
 
 
January                                                           1862                                                    87
 
The boat came over at her usual time, but brought me no letter—somewhat to my disappointment. I suppose my old friend & class-mate Ed. Macartney came over; but I was asleep and did not wake. I regretted it very much, for I would have liked very much to have seen him. Mike Gaskin & Alex Rogers returned from home today. They brought no news of interest
No orders at dress-parade at all. It was reported today that Fort Gaines was attacked; but that report proved to be false. We had quite an oyster supper in our mess this eve—and I partook heartily of them.
Friday Jan’y. 3rd 1862.
            This morn I arose at 4 A.M. and assisted Ed. in getting breakfast, but it is all foolishness in getting up so soon. This time of the year four o’clock is two hours before day.
            We fried two dozen eggs for dinner; but that was hardly a taste for our mess. They all seem to be fond of good things, and I appreciate their taste.
This after-noon I was taking quite a refreshing sleep, when Ches Hughes very abruptly waked me up, to “pay” me, as he said, for teasing him this morn about day-light.
            The weather has turned quite warm again. I never before saw such warm weather in Jan’y. Or such a warm fall & winter, so far, as we have had. There was no dress-parade at all this eve.
 
 
88  January                                                     1862
 
Saturday Jan’y. 4th 1862.
            This morn I did not get up until waked to go to breakfast. This is being a poor cook; but it is useless for me to rise so early when the meal is prepared as well without as with me.
            Our company did not have to work today as they thought, but were granted rest—I guess because it was Saturday.
            The boat came over at her usual time. She brought the mail, but I received no letter. Lieut. Wells returned from home today. He brought me a letter from Coz. Becca Going—not much news—all my friends were well in “Tank”.
            At dress-parade several orders were read; but none of importance that concerned our regement.
Sabbath Jan’y. 5th
            This I arose to late breakfast and partook heartily of my meal. After breakfast I attended company inspection—as “cooks are not excused.
            Today I have passed in lounging about and reading, making quite a long, lonesome day to me.
            Tonight Fon B., Ches H. & I have had a long conversation on different topics—proving very pleasant to me, at least. Fon is now reading the Bible while Ches is listening.
            Ches & I have concluded to read our Bibles every night—which resolution we will carry out.
            Today has been quite warm and calm. It does seem we are going to have no winter.
 
 
January                                                           1862                                                    89
 
Monday Jan’y. 6th 1862.
                                                                                                                        This morn I
was, as usual, waked up to breakfast. After which I sent soon went to sleep, & slept till near time for dinner.
            This after-noon I wrote a letter for Tom Luke to his “Dulcina” who seems to love him first rate; but there is no telling, for their deceitfulness is not to be accounted for. She may & she may not love him.
            This place seems to me to grow more monotonous every day. We do not have any drilling at all, which, to some extent serves to pass off the time.
            We finished our sand-bag work today; but I expect some other work will soon be found for our company. This place is now well fortified—much better than it was two months ago. We have mounted about fifteen rifled cannon—about half of them dahlgreens—since we have been here—when there was not a rifled gun here before. We are well prepared and ready to meet the enemy with a “warm reception.”
            Nothing new at dress-parade. The weather has turned a good deal cooler.
Tuesday Jan’y. 7th
                                                                                                                        Last night I re-
tired at “taps”, but from sleeping in the after-noon could not sleep; so I passed the night until about 12 P.M. very restlessly.
            This morn, as usual, I was waked to late breakfast. I reluctantly arose and went round & “took in” my portion of the “Logan” (Beef)
 
 
90  January                                                     1862
 
Today the boat came over. The mail came, and I received two letters!!!!! One was from Cousin Mollie and one was from Pa. Cousin M. was at Bridgeville. I was very glad to learn that our family were all well.
This after-noon it is raining a little—on account of which there was no dress-parade.
Wednesday, Jan’y. 8th.
                                                                                                            Last night I believe I had a slight chill. I felt very chilly and quite unwell. It rained near all last night, and is quite damp this morn. I feel better this morn, but not entirely well. This after-noon I have had a very high fever—feeling very. This evening the boat came over bringing no passengers nor mail. I do not know her business—some surmised it was to bring the pay-rolls.
            Col. Maury had battalion drill this after-noon for the first time in near a month. I did not attend dress-parade, consequently, heard no orders. I suppose some were published, but I have not been able to ascertain what they were.
Thursday Jan’y. 9th
            This morn I arose at 8 o’clock feeling much better. I drank about half a cup of coffee for breakfast. I have no appetite at all. I wrote a letter to pa today, in which I assured him I would not reinlist in any country’s service before I went home.
 
 
January 1862                                                   91
 
I fear I will not be able to go to the wars soon again; for I can not leave pa in his present condition—having no one to assist him in his business.
The boat came over this after-noon. I received no letters, as usual. I received a book, styled “The Life & Times of Gen. Washington”, which I sent for a few days ago, with a club made by S. S. Boughton. The gift I rec’d. was a brass watch chain. I traded it off for a nice little knife. Today has been very rainy; but tonight is clear; still, it is very warm and I guess we will have more rain soon. No dress parade this eve.
Friday Jan’y. 10th
                                                                                                                        This morn I feel almost well—having no fever at all—still I feel quite weak.
            Nothing worthy of note transpired this morn. I can say the same of this after-noon. Col. M. had battalion drill this eve, and made a very pretty display before Col. Powell who was a spectator of the drill. I did not attend dress-parade; but I understand that it was published that 1st Lieut Jeannett was promoted to Capt.—in McDonald’s stead, who, it was also published, had resigned—a very good change for the company I should judge.
            Today This has been a warm spring day. It seems we are going to have no winter.
 
 
92  January                                                     1862
Saturday, Jan’y. 11th 1862.
                                                                                                                        This is the an-
niversary of the first year of Alabama’s dissolution from the “Old Wreck”; and was celebrated here this morn; (by daylight,) by the firing of five guns. Today our largest flag is hoisted—also ten small signal flags, which I suppose are intended to represent the original ten secession states of this glorious confederacy, which now numbers thirteen states.
            Today Col. Maury is trying to get up a company to enlist “during the wars.” I do not know what will be his success.
            The boat came this after-noon at about one o’clock. Several passengers came; but none with whom I was acquainted. The mail was brought over; but I received “narry letter.” I like to have forgotten to say that S.S.B. ret’d. from Mobile.
            I went out to dress-parade as a spectator this P.M. It is a beautiful sight. Some orders were published; but I could not understand them for the wind that existed.
Sabbath, Jan’y. 12th 1862
                                                                                                            This, the “Blessed
day of the seven”,—and—how is it spent here? Most usually it is passed unnoticed. It does seem that some who were accustomed to respect it at home think they are now soldiers, therefore, this should not be required of them. But, what poor reasoning!
            Our Sabbath here are usually quite dull, from the fact that we have no preaching or anything of the sort to attend, and a person does not feel “like reading all day; so his hours of idleness” on this day pass slowly away.
 
 
January 1862                                                   93
 
            Sam B. brought over a turkey yesterday, and we are going to have it for dinner. This looks like “living high”; but such dainties are seldom placed before us.—Ed cooked the turkey very well, and it was as tender as I ever ate. We ate it entirely up—affording us quite a sumptuous meal.
            This after-noon I marched, with the company, to dress-parade, not because I had it to do, but because I wished to do so. No orders were published.
Monday Jan’y. 13th.
                                                                                                            This morn I was
awaked to late breakfast. I went round and found the boys had all eaten but four or five. We had nothing to eat but some poor beef, biscuit & coffee. I bought four dozen oysters, already fried, and we made a pretty fair breakfast of it.
This is a very foggy morn; and in the last few weeks have had some of the thickest fogs I ever saw.
            I spent the greater portion of this after-noon in sleep. This is the only way we can pass off the time, except in reading; but we cannot read all the while.
            I am now reading the “Life & Times of Go Washington”, by Smucker. It is quite an interesting, and I expect true history of this man most truly and appropriately styled a Patriot & “father of his country.”
No orders were published at dress-parade this after-noon.
            It has turned pretty cool this eve. And the change in the weather, from very warm to quite cool, was very sudden.
 
 
94  January                                                     1862
 
1862                                                    Tuesday Jan’y. 14th 1862.
Last night was the
coldest we have had this winter. I fared very comfortably—having a plenty of bed-clothes. This morn I very reluctantly arose to share our morning meal. It is a very cold and foggy day.
            This after-noon Lieut. Dunlap came down from his company, stationed about a mile from here. It is the first time he has been here since they went up there.
            The boat came over this eve. C.H. Barham, Henry Cosper & Gray returned from home. All of them had been “up country” on sick furloughs. They brought no news of interest. I received a letter from Annie, and was truly glad to hear from her. She wrote me something in regard to my “dearest.”—the first I had heard of her in many days.
            Several of us received a box of dainties from Coz. Bettie Thompson by the boat. It is quite a nice token of remembrance—and highly appreciated by me.
Wednesday Jan’y. 15th
            Last night some of our boys were drinking, and it was a disgusting scene. This morn quite early, I suppose L. D. Baily was drunk, and went into the Capt.’s quarters where he he abused Capt. L. a great deal. He finally threatened the Capt. that he would whip him if he would waive his rank, upon which the Capt. told him if he repeated it he would cut his throat. He repeated he it, & the Capt. cut him, but not seriously. Capt. L. had him put in the guard-
 
 
                                                            January 1862                                                   95
 
house. After breakfast there was some whiskey reported to have been stolen off the wharf yesterday; and our company was accused of it! What a shame! On inquiring into it L. D. Baily was found to be the man who stole the whiskey. I do not know what will be done with him; but I expect it will go hard with him. Capt. Lanier let Baily out of the guard-house tonight.
            Tonight I have replied to written to Coz. Bettie T. returning thanks for the box sent us by her.
            Today I “threw up my commission” as cook. Dock McK. succeeded me.
            I attended dress-parade this after-noon. There is to be a Court of Inquiry tomorrow morn 9 o’clock in regard to the whiskey scrape. I am truly sorry this thing has occurred in our company; but it cannot be helped now.
Thursday Jan’y. 16th
            This morn I did not go on guard as I expected I should; but Orderly Salmond says I have to take Dock McK’s. place, which will throw me on the picket day after tomorrow. I do not like it much; but can’t help it. I was detailed today to help dismount and mount again one of the 10 in. Columbiads. I did but very little work.—The boat came over this after-noon at her usual time. Burt Upchurch returned from Mobile. He brought me Abbott’s “Life of Napoleon”—a nice set of books in two Vol’s., for which I gave five days dollars I think they are
 
 
96                                                        January 1862
 
Tuesday Jan’y. 14th 1862
well worth that price.
            The mail came, and I received two letters—one, from my friend Phil, and one from my other friend Fos. They were both quite interesting letters to me. I failed to say in the proper place that I wrote to Annie today, and through her I wrote a note to my “dearest”, to let her know I had by no means forgotten her. It nearly kills me to have to be so silent in regard to corresponding with her I love.
            We did not get our cannon mounted this eve.
            It is raining again tonight.
Friday Jan’y. 17th
                                                                                                            This morn I arose to late breakfast. I went around to the cook-room & found we had nothing but beef, bread and coffee. I am getting extremely tired of this fare.
            This morn I spent chiefly in reading the life of Gen. Washington—the “Pater patriae.” In his commencement towards liberty, and an organization of a Republic, he had the greatest difficulties to surmount; and well does he deserve the everlasting name of a true patriot and hero, which he unanimously receives!
            This after-noon I spent the greater portion of my time in sleep. I awoke feeling somewhat unwell. I attended dress-parade this P.M. Nothing of interest transpired. This has been a pleasant day.
 
 
                                                            January 1862                                                   97
 
Saturday Jan’y. 18th 1862
                                                                                                                        This morn I was detailed for guard, and, unluckily for me, I am on the picket guard. And what is more unlucky I am on the 2nd relief.
            The boat came over about 12 O’clock M. today. Nothing new. I received no letters—was glad of it; for I have as many to answer now as I care to.
            I have stood four hours of my time, and Bob Bunn & I spent it very pleasantly playing “Eucre” and “Seven-up”.
Nothing new, I understand, at dress-parade. The weather is still pleasant.
Sabbath Jan’y. 19th
            Last night Bob Bunn & I passed off our time very pleasantly in conversation. We had quite a pleasant night for guard duty; but there was the heaviest dew I ever saw. This morn we were relieved at 6 o’clock, when we came into the fort & got our breakfast. I did not go back to the guard-house to the dismounting of the old guard.
            This morn I wrote three letters—one, each to cousins, Mollie and Becca Going, & one to my dear friend Fos.
            After dinner I had the pleasure of seeing my friend Jno. Jones. It is the first time he has been down since he first came to the Point.
            I spent about three hours of this after-noon in sleep, & waked up feeling unwell.
            Tonight I am having a slight chill.
 
 
98                                                        January 1862
 
Monday Jan’y. 20th 1862.
                                                                                                                        Last night I did not go to sleep until after 12 o’clock, on account of having slept so much on the previous eve. Jno. S. McG. slept with me last night.
            This morn I awoke feeling pretty well, but quite dull.
            This is a beautiful, sun-shiny, spring morning;—rather too warm to be pleasant.
            I wrote a long letter to Phil this morning.
Today there is some excitement afloat in regard to a confederate schooner which was making an effort to get in by the blocade. She was interrupted by the blocading vessel, and in her attempt to escape beached herself about fifteen miles above here. Col’s. Powell & Maury with a detachment of men, with two field pieces & small arms went up to prevent the schooner from being “boarded” until her cargo could be secured. We now have the news that the enemy has the vessel with its cargo. I know nothing in regard to the particulars of this.
            No dress-parade this after-noon.—I felt a little unwell nearly all day.
Tuesday Jan’y. 21st
            This morn I awoke feeling pretty well—ate a hearty breakfast.
            I failed to say that yesterday I finished the life of Washington, and last night commenced “The Life of Napoleon.” I only read about twenty five pages last eve. I am highly pleased with it, so far; but I fear Abbott is too much prejudiced in Napoleon’s favor to give
 
 
                                                            January 1862                                                   99
 
a correct history of this renowned general.
This morn it is warm and cloudy. I think we will have some rain today. There are a great many “camp rumors” this morn concerning the excitement of yesterday; but these are to be believed only when known to be true.
            The boat came over about 1 P.M. She brought no news of interest. I received a letter & a box of “eatables” from home. All were well at home. The contents of the box were quite acceptable to us, as we are now faring poorly.
            Col. Powell’s report from the excitement upon the beach was received by us this eve through Capt. Lanier. He says that our men killed, at least, ten or twelve yankees—that our men killed all the men in one of their launches but two, who jumped out & swam back to the man-of-war. This launch was procured by ours, and we got about ten sacks of coffee off the schooner before she was taken by the enemy.
            It has not rained today; but is still very warm.
Wednesday, Jan’y. 22nd
                                                                                                                        This morn
I arose earlier than common—about day-light. We had fried ham for brealfast, which was quite a luxury. We had not had this dish before in over three months.
This is a warm and very cloudy morning. It commenced raining about 11 o’clock A.M. & continued during the greater portion of the day.
            We had dress-parade this after-noon. O. S. Jeannett in the “Polk Walker Rifles”
 
 
100                                                      January 1862
 
was promoted to 3rd Lieut. in that co.
            The order was issued this P.M. that drilling exercises was to be resumed tomorrow, as they were when we quit; viz: Morn drill at 71/2 A.M., Artillery drill at 9 A.M., and bat drill at 31/2 P.M.
            This is a cold, gloomy night—very bad for the poor sentinels. My friend Jno. McG. is now out in the cold on his post. I can sympathize with him, if sympathy avails anything.
Thursday Jan’y. 23rd.
                                                                                                                        Last night
a confederate schooner attempted to “run the blocade” and stranded herself about two miles south of here, near Sand Island—I guess it was owing to such a heavy north wind & dark night.
            This morn is the coldest weather we have had. I, with six ten of our men were detailed to hold ourselves in readiness to go to our rifled gun at any moment, should the blocade attempt to board her (this schooner). But no such attempt was made.
Owing to the extreme cold we have had no drills today. I think drilling is almost finished with us during this campaign. Today no relief was sent to the schooner, and this after-noon her men set fire to her and left her. She had, I suppose, 140 bales of government cotton aboard. I think it was a shame to us; for I think we could have easily sent out a boat to tow her in; and if we could not have done that, we could have
 
 
                                                            January 1862                                                   101
 
guarded her until the north wind ceased. But what did we do?—we burnt her up while she was almost directly under the muzzles of our guns! (Shame!)
            We had dress-parade this after-noon. Some orders were published; but I could not hear them, and have not ascertained what they were.
            I failed to say in the proper place that the boat came over today about 3 P.M. She brought the mail. I rec’d. a short letter from Annie—wishing news.
Friday, Jan’y. 24th
                                                                                                            After breakfast
I was detailed for guard; and, as usual, was so unfortunate as to come on the picket. I am No. 1 of the 1st relief—a very good position. It seems that I never will come on the gar. guard again. I have not been on it in near two months.
This is a pretty cold day; but not so cold as was yesterday. This is a beautiful, sunshiny day.
            Our co. drilled this morn. I know they must have had a cold time, for the wind has a fair “sweep” at the drill grounds.
Today about noon the Crescent went out to the blockading fleet. I suppose her business was to demand the schooner that they took day before yester—on the 21st inst. under the pretensions that she was a British vessel. I do not know what success they met.
            This after-noon I took a chill, and
 
 
102                                                      January 1862
 
was quite sick. I reported to O. S. Salmond and he detailed Phil Scott to stand in my place. I believe I am taking the third day chills. I feel quite unwell tonight. I shall take four Cook’s Pills, and see if that will do me any good.
            I suppose there was nothing new at dress-parade.
Saturday, Jan’y. 25th.
                                                                                                                        I did not
rest well last night, and awoke this morn feeling unwell, though I feel better now than I did last night.
            The schooner (“Clara”) on which Lieut. Boyers went to Cuba succeeded in running the blocade last night, and is now under the protection of our guns. I have not learned what composes her cargo.
I went to the Hospital this morn & was excused from all duty for today. While there Lieut. Boggs came & told us he had dragged a dead man ashore, just above the picket. I went up to see him, & it was an awful sight! He is supposed to be one of the men killed by ours on the 21st inst.
            There was no drills this morning.
            The boat came over about her usual time. I rec’d. no letter. The papers give the full accounts of a fight between our forces and the foe in North Tennessee. Our gen. Zollicoffer was killed, and our forces were badly whipped. This looks somewhat alarming; especially their being so far south.
            I took a long sleep this P.M. and awoke with quite a high fever.
 
 
                                                            January 1862                                                   103
 
Sabbath, Jan’y. 26th 1862.
            Last night about 91/2 o-clock Col. M. fired five or six times at the wreck of that vessel burnt a few days since. Men have been seen there the last two nights, and it is thought to be the enemy getting the cotton that did not burn up.
            I awoke this morn feeling somewhat better; but still feel unwell. I went to the Hospital, and was excused from all duty for the day, and rec’d. medicine.
            This is a very cold morning. I guess we will have some winter now.
            I spent this after-noon in sleep, and awoke feeling a great deal better.
            Nothing new at dress-parade.—It is rumored here this eve that Picayune Butler has sent to Gen. Withers demanding a surrender of this Fort by next Saturday. I have no idea it is so. I would like for him to try to force us to a surrender. I think he would find that it was easier to simply demand a surrender than was to force one.
            I failed to say that Dr. Spillman preached today in the Masonic Lodge. I did not feel well enough to attend. I suppose his text was the 12th Chap. of Romans—an exhortation to our various duties.
Monday Jan’y 27th
                                                                                                            This morn I arose
to breakfast, feeling pretty well. After breakfast I went to the Hospital and was excused for the day, and as it was my
 
 
104                                                      January, 1862
 
chill-day received some medicine to prevent it.
            This morn I have spent, as usual, in lying about, and “doing a little of nothing.”
            This after-noon I wrote two letters—one, to Annie, and one, to Grand-ma. It is the first time I have written to her (grand-ma) since I was at home.
            We had no dress-parade this P.M.
            This eve there is some excitement in regard to reenlisting. Capt. Geo. Forney, Lt. McClung, and Lt. Scott are each making up a company “for the war.” They will each be successful, I guess.
Tuesday, Jan’y. 28th
                                                                                                                        This morn
I awoke feeling quite well. I went on duty today; but as we had no drills, and I was not detailed for work, I will have nothing to do.
            This morn Capt. Geo. Forney’s company was mustered in “for the wars.” These men are from the different co’s. in the fort.
The boat came over at usual time today. Lt. Best, and Milt. Lofton ret’d. from Mobile. Jno. Coleman did not return with them, as he was summoned to attend a court as a witness to something he saw—I know not what—I rec’d. two letters today—one from Pa, and one, from my old friend & room-mate Jim McClanahan. It was the first letter I had rec’d. from Mc in a long while. He gave me a full account of his Drainsville fight in which he was
 
 
                                                            January, 1862                                                  105
 
defeated. I hope ere long, he may have a chance to redeem that one unlucky event, and may achieve for himself bright laurels; for I know he is a faithful and worthy soldier.
            At dress-parade the order was published that “The men who were mustered into srvice today should remain in their respective companies until further orders.” I think these men will be badly “greened;” for they were expecting to get their “30 days furlough” & “700 dollars bounty” tomorrow. Now it would not at all surprise me if they are kept in their old co’s. until their times are is out. Perhaps not.
Wednesday Jan’y. 29th
                                                                                                                        This morn
I awoke feeling very well. After breakfast I was detailed for guard, and what is as surprising, as well as lucky, I will be on the gar. guard today. I have been to guard-mounting. The Adj’t. was absent, and the Sergt major acted in his stead. I am No. 2 of the 1st relief.—A very good place.
            There were no drills today.This day has passed off as usual—nothing at all transpiring, by which the day may be remembered.
            This has been quite a pleast. spring-like day. We are having the best weather imagineable for standing guard. I anticipate quite a nice time tonight.
            Thus ends the page.
 
 
106                                                      January 1862—
 
Thursday Jan’y. 30th 1862.
                                                                                                                                    I had a beautiful, star-light night for guard, and spent my time very pleasantly in meditation and thought. Almost my whole thought was of her I love. I am growing exceedingly anxious to see her; but it will be near two months yet, before that pleasure is allowed me! This will appear an age.
            This morn I was awoke to attend the dismounting of the guard. It is now cloudy. I spent the greater portion of the fore-noon in sleep, and awoke finding it had been raining, and that the picket guard had been taken off. Maury has had the picket guard taken off every rainy day and night this year. I think this plainly shows the uselessness of such a guard; for there is as much need of a guard in wet, as well as, dry weather. The boat came over about her usual time. Jno. Coleman returned from Mobile. I received no letters today. He is trying to get up an Artillery Company “for the wars.” Guess he will easily make it. I understand tonight he has forty five names to his paper.
            This eve Lieut. Mitchell requested me to write in his Autograph. I did as to the best of my ability.
            It has rained a slow rain all day, and tonight we have no picket guard.—At dress-parade
 
 
                                                            January 1862.                                                  107
 
this after-noon, the order was issued that there was to be genral inspection on parade ground tomorrow 9 O’clock A.M.
            This is the regular monthly inspection.
Friday Jan’y. 31st
                                                                                                                        This is a very rainy morning—guess it will be a wet day. I expect we will have no inspection. About 9 O’clock it quit raining, and the sun shone out beautifully.
            Inspection was postponed until 10 A.M. I attended. We had 891869 men out on inspection. It was the largest “turn out” I ever saw here. Nothing new transpired at inspection.
This has turned out to be a beautiful, sunny day.
At dress-parade the order was published that lights should be put out at Taps, which is 81/4 O’clock, P.M. I do not like this; for eight o’clock comes now directly after dark, and I prefer sitting up and reading, for I cannot go to sleep so early.
            Maury, I suppose, has succeeded in getting up his company. I thought he would have no trouble in making up a company here.
Saturday Feb’y. 1st 1862
                                                                                                                        This, the be-
ginning of a new month, is a beautiful, spring-like morning. I wrote a good, long letter to my friend J. T. McClanahan this morning.
            We had another turkey for dinner today, and we had quite a feast. Turkey is a great luxury here, sure, and stands but
 
 
108                                                      February 1862.
 
a poor showing in our mess; for a large turkey is only a small meal for us (11 in number.)
            The boat came over today at her usual time. I received no letter. Dick Clark came over on her. He told me he was expecting to get a position in Powell’s staff—If he does he will remain here.—I saw Hub Pierce this after-noon; he had nothing new; but was in fine spirits.
            Nothing new at dress-parade.
Sabbath Feb’y. 2nd
                                                                                                                        This morn I a-woke to behold the light of another Sabbath—and beautiful morn it is—not a cloud to be seen, but one clear blue sky forming the covering of the earth.
            This morn, after inspection, Burt Upchurch came up to my bunk, and we spent the greater part of the fore-noon in conversation, which proved quite agreeable, to me, at least. I think he is a firstrate young man.
            This after-noon Ches & I took a stroll over the point. We had a pleasant walk. I am very sleepy this eve; but am afraid to go to sleep, for when I sleep in the P.M. I cannot sleep at night until 12 or 2 o’clock at night.
Monday, Feb’y. 3rd.
                                                                                                                        I had a most
refreshing sleep last night, and this morn awoke feeling very well.
            After breakfast I was detailed for guard. And, luckily for me, I again
 
 
                                                            February 1862                                                 109
 
came on garrison guard. My post is No. 4.
            About noon Col. M. fired several times at a federal steamer that seemed to be about four & a half miles from here. She seemed to be aground. All of our fires fell short.
This has been a pleasant day; but cloudy, & I fear we will have rain tonight.
There was battalion drill this after-noon. I went out as a spectator, and there found my old friend Jno. Jones. We looked on through the drill and dress-parade, when I tried to get him to come in with me; but he would not do so. He says his company will be mustered in for the wars next week.
I failed to state that at dress-parade yesterday, an order was read, detailing men from several of the companies for the purposes of building Traverses. Twenty men are to be detailed daily from our company until the Traverses are completed. It seems that no work can be done without the assistance of our company. It is our officers’ fault that we have to do more than the other co’s.
Tuesday, Feb’y. 4th.
                                                                                                            Last night I had quite a disagreeable time on post. From 8 to 10 P.M. I was on duty in a heavy rain; and from 2 to 4 A.M. was in a cold wind and rain. At 4 A.M. I went to bed and slept till 9 A.M. I awoke feeling pretty well. It is pretty cold this morn.
            The boat could not land here today, on account of the roughness of the bay. She landed at the Cove about 1 o’clock P.M.
 
 
110                                                      February 1862
 
I rec’d. two letters—one, from pa, and one, from Aunt Marian. All of our family were well. Aunt M. wrote me a confidential letter regard to a certain damsel, whom I think I know equally as well as she does.
Crawf. Irwin retd from home today. He has been away about two months, and, in the meantime has been very ill. He now is quite well.
            We had no bat. drill this P.M. At dress-parade several orders were read; but we could hear nothing for the wind. Gen. Bragg has ordered that we shall again have Tattoo roll-call,—also, Reveille roll-call. These for a long time we have dispensed with, and done finely, I think. “Double duties may now look out!” I hope these orders will soon fail to be carried out. But if they are, we will not have it to endure long.
            No news of interest in the papers today.
Wednesday, Feb’y. 5th.
                                                                                                                        This morn
I was awaked to attend Reveille roll-call, which was about day-light, and it would be useless for me to say that I hated to get up; but, nevertheless, I had it to do.
            After breakfast I was one of the twenty who was detailed to fill sand-bags. We only worked about three quarters of an hour.
            By doing this we were excused from all drills. I like it finely.
            This after-noon we heard the firing of cannons up on the gulf beach; but have not ascertained the object the enemy had in view.
 
 
                                                            February 1862                                                 111
 
I attended bat. drill as a spectator this after-noon. The men did admirably well. Col. M. commanded.
            At dress-parade Capt. Foster commanded.
            The order was issued that morning drill should hereafter be immediately after Reveille. This order is also contrary to my wishes.
            12 o’clock, P.M. I have for more than two hours been trying to go to sleep, knowing that I have to rise early tomorrow. But my mind seems so busily engaged in thought that it is impossible for me to sleep.
            Amongst my thoughts, the one—my almost constant thought—was of her I love. In thinking over the short while I had to remain here, my thoughts naturally led to the time when I was to visit my home, friends, relatives, and, first of all—when I was again to behold that fair One in all her lovliness, and grasp her hand in mine and catch from her sweet countenance those loving smiles which of themselves afford me bliss indescribable.
            But has my meditation ended here? No. It goes on and I imagined I had spent my allotted time of ease with those I love, and had again been called by my much loved country to sacrafize these most endearing ties, to lend a hand to my bleeding country. Oh! how hard it is to desert such happiness when we know that in exchange we receive the hardships and horrors of war!
            This is truly a trying ordeal even to the most patriotic; but it is not to be questioned, which we shall choose? for
 
 
112                                                      February 1862
 
even life itself should not be regarded in such a cause. I detest war beyond description, and most earnestly desire peace—but when our country’s all is at stake “victory or death” should be our motto, and “to arms” should be our constant watch-word. But I hope our formidable foe will soon have their “eyes opened”—that they may soon see the “error of their ways”—that they may soon grant us that peace and tranquility for which we are fighting—which we would have had had they not first begun the present hostilities.
Thursday, Feb’y. 6th.
                                                                                                            This morn I arose
at Reveille, and attended drill immediately afterwards. Capt. L. gave us a very tight drill as revenge for a noise kept up last night in the lower quarters just to spite him. I think it was wrong in the Capt. to punish the innocent for the actions of others.
            At 9 o’clock I attended artillery drill—The drill passed off very pleasantly.
            The boat came over about 3 o’clock P.M. I rec’d. a letter from my dear friend Phil—and indescribable was the pleasure afforded me by its perusal. He was very well and in fine spirits.—Frank Smith came over from Ft. Gaines on his way home. Jno. Jones & Hub. Pierce were down this after-noon. I had quite a pleasant time with them. Capt. Geo. Forney’s & Capt. McClung’s companies rec’d. their furloughs today, and started home this eve. This takes 200 able men from
 
 
                                                            February 1862                                                 113
 
our regement.This will render our guard duty very severe. This P.M. the Crescent came over, bringing about a dozen very pretty young ladies. These were the first young ladies I had seen since Christmas, and it made me more earnestly desire to leave this place.
            I attended battalion drill this eve for the first time in near two months. Maj. Forney commanded. We had a pleasant drill, almost entirely “Double-quick.”
            At dress-parade the order was issued that the picket guard was abolished. This was glorious news; but guard duty will still be heavy.
Friday Feb’y. 7th
                                                                                                            This morn I arose
at Reveille, but was detailed to work at the traverses, and did not have to attend drill. We commenced working about 8 o’clock A.M., and continued until about 11 A.M., when Lt. Best dismissed us. We rested until about three P.M., when we again went to our work; but was soon taken to the wharf to bring up two guns—one 42, and one 32-pounder. We soon put them on the car and hauled them up opposite the sally-port, where we threw it off. Lt. B. then dismissed us for the day.
            There was no bat. drill this eve. Nothing new at dress-parade.
            We are now having some disagreeably warm weather. It seems that we are going to have no winter at all; for we have not had a week of cold continued cold weather this season.
 
 
114                                                      February 1862
 
Saturday February 8th 1862.
                                                                                                                        This morn I
arose at the beating of the drum for Reveille. We had no drill; hence, all we had to do was to fall in ranks and answer to our names at roll-call.
            We rec’d. the unfavorable news this morn that Fort Henry in North Tenn. was evacuated by our forces, and it was feared that Fort Donaldson would be attacked. “Luck now seems against us.” The last several victories engagements have been unsuccessful for us.
            I failed to say that I was detailed for guard this morning. I am No. 10 1st Relief. This has been a rainy morning morning.
            The boat could not land here today, on account of the wind. She went to the Cove. I rec’d no letter—was somewhat disappointed. Capt. Lanier went to Mobile today.
            This eve it is very cold, and raining slowly. I will have another cold, wet night for guard duty.
            Thus the week has passed—nothing very new or interesting occurring to disturb the dull monotony of this place. Our term of enlistment is fast coming to a close—only a little over a month, and then we can call ourselves “free men”—then for a short while we will be freed from the chains of militaryism, whose links daily grow heavier for me to endure. But these few days yet to be spent will appear the longest.
 
 
                                                            February 1862                                                 115
 
Sabbath, Feb’y. 9th 1862.
                                                                                                Last night my four hours
on duty was exceedingly cold with almost incessant rain—hence, we had a very disagreeable time. Though I was well provided for with clothing, and fared pretty well “considering.”
            At 4 A.M. I came off of my post, and directly went to bed, and from there, to sleep. I had quite a refreshing “nap” of seven hours, when I was awaked for dinner. I went round and did justice to a turkey which we had for dinner. It is still raining, and very cold.
            This has been a rainy day, and the coldest we have had this season. Col. M. had dress-parade inside the Citadel this eve, and says hereafter he intends having drills & parades, “rain or shine.”
            At dress-parade orders were read, making new details for work. Our company escaped this time!!!!
            This is another very disagreeable night for the poor sentinels. I feel sorry for them; for I know how bad it is. I failed to state in the proper place that I saw one of our schooners pass the fort about 10 P.M. last night. I understand she succeeded in running the blocade.
Monday February 10th.
                                                                                                                        This morn I
arose after quite a refreshing sleep, at Reveille, and was present at roll-call; Our officers had no drill on account of the cold. This is the coldest morning we have had. It has cleared off, and the sun is shining beautifully.
 
 
116                                                      February 1862
 
after breakfast Lt. Best took the company, and went to work building the traverses to our bastion (No 3.) It seems that work cannot be done here unless our company partakes. I shall not hurt myself by working too hard.
            I wrote a good long letter to my friend M. W. Stephenson Esqr. this morning. It seems that our correspondence is burdensome; but I shall prove in future that it is not so with me.
            The boat came over this after-noon. I do not know her business. She brought papers stating that the enemy had attacked and taken 3000 Confederate prisoners at Roanoke Island, and now had possession of the island. The papers also stated that the enemy were in Florence & Tuscumbia Ala. This is quite alarming news, and it seems that Fate has turned against us. The foe is now far South, and if they continue to advance as rapidly as the have done in the last two weeks they will soon go through this whole state. I fear we are going to see “hard times” ere we drive them back, and conquor them.
Our company did not attend dress parade. I have not heard the proceedings.
Tuesday, Feb’y. 11th
                                                                                                                        This morn we had Reveille roll-call, but did not drill, as we were “laborers.” After breakfast to our agreeable surprise, we were informed that we did not have to work. I suppose Col. Powell sent Lt. Best word that it was contrary to
 
 
                                                            February 1862                                                 117
 
his orders for us to work, as we had finished our task. We attended artillery drill at the usual hour.
The boat came over about her usual time.
I received a letter from Annie, but did not receive any word from my “d-r” as I expected I should. Capt. returned today. My old college-mate Jo Pickens came over on the boat. He is a Captain in the C.S.A., stationed over at Mobile—a capt. in Qtr.Master Gen. Green’s staff I believe. He is going to stay over until next boat. I do not know his business.
            At bat. drill Capt. Lanier commanded. He did pretty well “considering.” Col. M. has left us on furlough. I understand he is to be gone forty days. This leaves Bradford in command. I suppose Lt. Col. B. says he is going to make the Capt’s. command at drills—and I will add: he expects to look on as “Lord over all.”
            At dress-parade the order was read positively prohibiting all liquors to be brought over here, and, to see that this order was carried into effect Best was appointed Provost Marshal of the point. This order, if carried into effect, is a good thing, for I believe “Gen. Dexter” is our most formidable foe. I have always feared here that, in case of an attack, we would have to fight under drunken officers; but now Col. Powell would not suffer an officer to appear drunk—at least, I have heard that he would not.
            This has been quite a pleasant day—a little cold; but gradually growing warm. I hope by the time I have to go on guard we will have pleasant weather.
 
 
118                                                      February 1862
 
Wednesday February 12th 1862
                                                                                                                        This morn I
arose at Reveille. attended roll-call, and drill. We had a very good drill. I attended artillery drill at the usual hour. Wells commanded the company. His first command was, “Rest”, and his second was, “Secure Piece.” Hence, we did nothing at all, but idle an hour away on the walls.
            After art. drill Ches & I spent till dinner fixing up some “home-made” valentines. We make them look very nice.
            This eve I spent almost in idleness until the hour for bat. drill arrived, when I attended. Capt. Foster commanded this after-noon. (Capt. L. is off. of the Day.) He did tolerably well, only. At dress-parade several orders were published, amongst them was concerning Capt. Lefevre of this reg’t. For character “unbecoming an officer and a gentleman” he was discharged from the service.
The steamer Keys (not our regular packet) came over this after-noon about 5 o’clock with provisions for us. I understand she has about 500 barrels of flour, and about 250 barrels of pickled pork for this place. This looks somewhat like Gen. Bragg was expecting us to be attacked. Seven of our boys have been detailed to assist in unloading the boat. I guess she will be here until tomorrow.
            This is a pleasant, and beautiful moon-light for standing guard. I hope I will have such tomorrow night, as I then expect to be on guard.
            We rec’d today’s paper this P.M. There was nothing more than we have heard.
 
 
                                                            February 1862                                                 119
 
Thursday, Feb’y. 13th 1862.
                                                                                                            This morn I very
reluctantly arose to attend roll-call. Lieut. Mitchell was in command this morn, as Capt. L. was off. of Day. Lt. Best, I don’t know where he was, and Lt. Wells was appointed Commissary “protem” over the exposed provisions. Lt. Mitchell marched us out to the drill grounds. He saw no other company drilling, and immediately marched us back, and dismissed us. This is more than Capt. L. would have done. I was this morn detailed, with thirteen more of our men, for guard. I think I will have a pleasant day for guard this time.
            All the companies were detailed today for the purpose of rolling up the provisions that came yesterday—hence, there will be no drills today.
            The boat came over today about 3 P.M. I received no letter—was not at all disappointed. Nothing new came on her. Lt., or rather Provost Marshal Best took one man’s bottle from him today. I suppose he also found a jug of whiskey. This is a very good rule if it is just kept up.
            We had no dress-parade this eve. This has been quite a warm day. I will have a fine night for guard this time. My post is No. 4 Garrison, and it is a beautiful moon-light night. I expect a pleasant time.
            There is some excitement here in regard to the probability of our having a fight soon. All seem to think so, and, of course, my opinion amounts to nothing; but, I must confess, I can see no
 
 
120                                                      February 1862
 
more signs of a fight than heretofore.
            I hope that our hated foe will soon give us a trial; for they never will be able to find us better prepared; and when they do try us, I think, we will make them put into practise the “double-quick retreat” they learned at the battle of Manassas!
Friday, “Valentine’s Day” 1862
                                                                                                                        Last night I
had a very pleasant time on guard. The moon shone out brightly, and the weather was comfortably cool. Jno. Reid’s post joined mine at one end, and Milt Lofton’s at the other, and betwixt them I spent my time very agreeably in conversation.
            I was awaked this morn about 81/2 o’clock. I feel quite well. I found it had rained a good deal, and had turned pretty cold. How soon the weather changes—yesterday it was disagreeably warm.
            Today we had no drills, but the reg’t. (rather large details from the different co’s.) were detailed to finish securing the provisions, and to haul up cannon. We have two 42-pounders—smooth bore—to be mounted. They are the only guns of that callibre we have.
            Today we received the dispatch that we had whipped the yankees at Fort Donelson. I did not hear the particulars. I hope it is so—this will serve to add fresh energy to our patriotic soldiers.—I have had the tooth-ache nearly all day, and this after-noon it pained me so that I could not rest; so I went to Dr. Chisholm (a private in Capt. Goodwin’s Company)
 
 
                                                            February 1862                                                 121
 
to have it pulled. He did it very well. It was an old jaw-tooth that had been aching for six or seven years. It relieved me greatly.
            I did not attend dress-parade, but understand an order was issued prohibiting us from going upon the walls. I guess this is to prevent the enemy from being able to calculate our number.
Saturday Feb’y. 15th
                                                                                                            This morn I awoke &
attended roll-call. We had no drill.
I caught some cold last night, and the place where my tooth was extracted pains me now. I fear I have caught cold in it. I sent my name to the Hospital to be excused. I am able to do duty; but I am afraid if I go out in the cold & wind I would take the “general teeth-ache”, as every tooth in my mouth is ready to ache now. For breakfast I only drank a cup of coffee. This seemed to aggravate my teeth.
This is quite a cold windy morn. The boat could not land here today; but went to the Cove. I received no letter;—was somewhat disappointed. I sent one of my “home-made” valentines to my “dearest” today. We received the news today that we had again whipped the enemy at Fort Donelson. This is the fourth time they have attacked us at this place, and as many times they have been defeated. They seem determined to have that fort; but I think & hope they may ever fail. I have had the jaw-ache nearly all day; but it is easy now. This is a very cold, rainy night—a very bad time for the poor sentinels. Ches is on guard—I feel for him, for I am able to sympathize.
 
 
122                                                      February 1862
 
Sabbath, February 16th1862.
                                                                                                            This morn I slept
until about 7 o’clock as I was excused until 8 A.M. today. I arose feeling pretty well, though my jaw still pains me some. This is another cold, damp day. At 10 o’clock A.M. I went to hear a Catholic priest preach. He took his text from the 17th Chap. of John. He gave us the doctrines of his church—and said as much as that he was clothed with divine power—that he was omnipotent—It so disgusted me that I left before he finished.
            I became quite cold while at church, and the result was, I had the jaw-ache.
            I, with fourteen of our men, was detailed to report at the Ordnance for the purpose of mounting our two 42-pound cannons. I did not feel well enough to work; so Ches H. went in my stead. They are putting these two guns in the casements.
            We received a dispatch today giving some detail of the fight yesterday at Donelson. It said: “Over a thousand of enemy were slau—taken prisoner & we slaughtered them that the enemy’s force was 50,000.” This was no inconsiderate fight—hence, this is quite an encouraging victory for us.
            I failed to say that two companies from Buck’s reg’t. were moved down yesterday, and quartered in the two houses—one, in Jeannett’s old quarters—the other, in the house the “Dixie Boys” were quartered in. One of these co’s. is the “Washington Guards”—the other, the “Gulf City Guards.” I suppose they are to assist us in guard duty.
            The beach guard has been doubled—making fifteen more men. This extra number is now taken from the Right of the guard
 
 
                                                            February 1862                                                 123
 
one day, the middle next, and centre next, just as the picket used to be. There is also now an off. of the beach guard. I had almost as soon have picket guard as this. Cicero is out tonight on the beach, and a bad night he will have; for it is quite cold, and a slight, but continual rain.
            This has been a regular work-day with us. Details were made for hauling and mounting cannons.—also details were made to “house” about one hundred & fifty barrels of molasses. I do not know; but I think it was wrong to have this work today.
Monday Febr’y. 17th.
                                                                                                                        This morning
I arose to reveille feeling somewhat unwell. I was detailed for guard duty, & at the usual time attended guard-mount. I am No. 11 of the 1st Relief—a very good post. We are having a warm, but rainy day. This morn we were paid up for the two month’s service, between the 1st of Nov’r. & the 31st Dec’r. We were also paid $2900 commutation money. This replenished our pockets smartly.
            There has been a good deal of talk here concerning whether or not the recruits will have to remain until their respective twelve months are out. This does not much concern me, as I will only have to stay two months longer than the Company; but some will have to “tough it out” for six months more. I do not believe it can be done, if they can, and do so it will be the last time (I think) that I will go as a recruit.
 
 
124                                                      February 1862
 
This after-noon I had a chill, and feel quite unwell. I shall not stand guard tonight; “Bud” Jones is going in my stead. He will only have to stand four hours tonight. I hated to give it up; but I knew I would be doing myself an injustice to continue.
            This is a warm, rainy night, & the sentinels will have a bad time. We have had about a week of very bad weather for guard duty.
No drills today, save Art. drill this morn.
Tuesday, Feb’y. 18th
                                                                                                                        Last night I
had a high fever, and did not rest well. This morn I arose about 7 o’clock and felt quite unwell. I went to the Hosp. and received medicine & was excused for the day. I went up to see Mark. C— while there. He has been sick in the hospital for near a week with the Flux. He is a great deal better now, but has been quite sick.
This has been the most foggy morn I ever saw.—About 3 P.M. the Gunnison came over. She brought the news that our mail boat was aground near Ft. Gaines, and would be here as soon as she could. The Gunnison also brought us the distressing news that the enemy had taken Ft. Donelson & 10,000 of our men prisoners! Powell rec’d. the dispatch today stating that Fort. D. was taken, but gave no account of any prisoners being taken. This is discouraging news. The enemy now have Nashville, and, in fact, near all
 
 
                                                            February 1862                                                 125
 
of Tennessee in their hands! We will now have to fight, die or be bond-men! I had rather take either of first two than the latter for my lot.
            This has been a very foggy day, but warm and sun-shiny.
            The boat will hardly get off ground until this fog disappears.
            At dress-parade orders were issued stating that all the mechanics—ship-builders, gun-smiths, &c. were wanted, and any such who wished to work were ordered to Va. I guess this is to commence building a fleet. Tis late to be just beginning this; but I suppose, “It is better late than never.”
            For the two last two days Col. Powell’s has brought the guard to strict army regulations. This is a good thing; but goes very much “against the grain” with us, from the fact that we have been doing just as we pleased for the last ten months. I guess discipline will be exercised now since Powell has taken it into hand; but if Maury have continued to command we would have forgotten that such a book as “Army Regulations” ever was printed.
Wednesday Feb’y. 19th
                                                                                                                        This morning I
did not get up until about 8 o’clock. I feel a great deal better today than I did yesterday; but feel unwell still. I went on duty today, but it seems that my teeth are never going to quit aching until I have them all extracted.
            I attended art. drill at the usual
 
 
126                                                      February 1862
 
hour. Wells commanded. We did nothing, but idled away the hour.
            The boat came over about 10 A.M. today. I received a letter from Cousin Mollie Going. I had almost concluded that she had forgotton me, but was happy to learn that I was foolish, as well as, mistaken in my conclusions. The boat brought us no news of our defeat at Donelson. I guess the news of that was brought to Mobile since she left, as she was on ground in the bay the greater portion of yesterday. This after-noon I cleaned the inside of my gun—a job I had neglected until it required some labor to clean it.
            There was nothing new at dress-par.
            After supper, which was about 5 P.M., Jim G. & I took a walk on the beach and had quite an interesting (at least, to me) conversation.
Thursday Feb’y. 20th
                                                                                                            This morn I arose at
the second beating of the drum for Reveille, and attended roll-call.
Instead of Art. drill this morn the “Long-roll” was beaten. All the companies went to their rspective batteries. I did not go as the roll was not called—I was not missed.
I went up & settled my a/c. with Cashin—the sutler—for the past two months. It was four dollars.
            This is a very windy morning, and somewhat cool.
            The could not land here today, but went to the Cove. The mail was brought
 
 
                                                            February 1862                                                 127
 
down, but I received nothing. The news is now afloat that we are ordered to Fort Gaines, (i.e. our reg’t.) This causes a good deal of excitement, and every man concerned is displeased with the move; but that matters nothing.
            We had art. drill this after-noon—but did nothing but “stack arms” & “Rest.”
            At dress-parade the order was issued that this reg’t. should immediately go to Ft. Gaines—& that Maj. Gee’s battalion (now at Gaines) should come here, & that Col. Crawford’s reg’t. (also at Gaines) should go to Mobile. These we believe to be the movements of Maury & Withers—Maury, in order that he may get away from Powell where he can “drink & frolic,” & carry on affairs more to his own satisfaction.—Withers—in order to get Crawford’s reg’t. out of the present danger in which they are now placed—I understand he calls that his “pet reg’t.” I think it is a shame to put the garrisoning of that fort upon us now when there is some sign of fight, when, heretofore, it has been garrisoned by twice our number—a reg’t. and a battalion. Why not send us to Mobile & save the removal of the reg’t. now at Ft. Gaines?
Just because there are sand-bags to be filled, batteries to be built, or something of the sort, and the “2nd Reg’t. are the ones on whom to impose”—That is what “old Withers” would say. And, if I
 
 
128                                                      February 1862
 
know my heart, I have not a kind feeling for him.
Tonight we hear from “Madame Rumor” that Powell has dispatched to Bragg protesting against the removal of this reg’t. I do sincerely hope he may succeed in keeping us here. If Powell’s plea is noticed, and he is cause of our not being removed, he will gain the good-will of the “Magnolia Regement,” for I believe I can safely say, there is not a man among us who desires the change. Lt. Scott was in the Capt’s. quarters tonight. He thinks our chances for remaining here are but few.
Friday February 21st
                                                                                                                        This morn I
arose at the beating of the drum for reveille. We had no roll-call. I then was sorry that I had got up.
            About 81/2 o’clock this morning the order came for us to pack up—that we had to go Fort Gaines as soon as the boat came. Pack up we did, and such confusion I never saw before. Every one had his own trunk to carry to the wharf. All the reg’t had their baggage, both personal & mess, at the wharf by 11 A.M. There we waited in suspense for the boat to come. The boat is now at Fort. G— taking on Gee’s battalion of Regulars to bring here, and then is to take us back.
            About 12 M. Maury came over on the Gunnison from Mobile. No one noticed him. He & Bradford directly left on the Gunnison, and went towards Ft. Gaines. They ret’d. about 4 P.M.—both tight. Bradford
 
 
                                                            February 1862                                                 129
 
was reported to Powell by Capt. Lanier, and is now under arrest by order Col. Powell. This is a good thing.
            The boat came over about 3 P.M. and every thing & person was confused & in a perfect bustle. I never saw the like of baggage as was put on the boat. A portion of Bucks reg’t. was moved down to the old outside quarters of our reg’t. I saw Hub P. & Jno. Jones. They are moved down to Fergus’ old quarters. I saw Hurie Austill. He is now at Fort M. with his company of regulars. I also saw Dick Clark today. He is aid to Powell—ranks 1st Lt.
            We bid farewell to Fort Morgan at about 5 O’clock P.M., and I regretted very much to leave.—We landed here—Fort Gaines—about 51/2 P.M. and then was to go thro’ with the same ordeal of bustle & confusion which we experienced in coming on the boat.
            We were marched up inside the fort, and a detail called for guard. Fifteen of our men were taken for the garrison guard. We were then dismissed to go to “look to” our baggage. We after time & trouble got everything off the boat, but we were until near 9 P.M. getting everything off. I am now exceedingly hungry, as I have had nothing to eat (save a little “loaf-bread”) since breakfast. Jim. G. has 250 oysters in the shell and I “pitched into” them raw for the first time I ever eat them that way. I ate about a dozen, and this sated, to some extent, my appetite.
 
 
130                                                      February 1862
 
Fort Gaines February 22nd 1862
Saturday.                                                                                                         Last night
Ches & I (Cicero was on guard) made us a pallet inside the fort on the ground with nothing but the broad expanse of the heavens to shelter our heads.—This is what I call “soldiering”—I rested tolerable well, and this morn awaked at about 7 o’clock. Everything around us was wet with dew like a rain had fallen.
            Our breakfast was cooked un in our stoves temporarily placed out of doors. Directly after breakfast we picked out bunks. Mine is just below Bill Spillman & Jim Going, and joining Jim Cunningham.—I am well pleased with my “situation”
            Our mess-articles we carried to our cookhouse and are now fixed up nicely. I believe we will like it much better than we expected we should.
This morn Bill S. & I went round & inspected the other reg’t. (Col. Crawford’s)
            About 11 A. M. Crawford’s reg’t. was formed into line & marched to the boat. They all appeared to be well-drilled; and I judge from their appearance that they have been use to discipline—a thing this reg’t. never knew.
            I have spent the greater portion of the day strolling about the fort. This is a beautiful place and the fort is well planned for strength and convenience.
            We had dress-parade this after-noon. Bradford was out with his sword on. I think this was quite impudent in him, when he is under arrest. I guess he will be reported for it. There was an order from
 
 
                                                            February 1862                                                 131
 
Maury this issued this after-noon prohibiting all spirituous liquors from coming here unless by order of the surgeon. I think if Maury has any shame, this would rouse it up—Just to think! yesterday he was drunk, and today issues such an order!—
I like to have forgotton to say that this is the birth-pla day of the Southern Confederacy. Today she assumes the character of an independent nation, and inaugurates her first President (Davis.) My beloved Country! today we say we are no more a portion of the “old wreck”, and hereafter will be under an established government—& under the “Stars & bars” which will lead us to victory or to our graves!
            Whilst amid the various scenes and changes through which I have passed in the last two days, is my dearest one forgotton? far from it. She is ever the first and last with me in thought, no matter where I be—no difference however much pleasure I am permitted to taste, or thro’ whatever hardships I am forced to pass. It is my greatest pleasure to think of her when musing alone in quiet solitude, and when in the throng my thoughts often revert to the many happy hours I have spent with her.
            I hope that ere long I shall be able to enjoy the unbounded pleasure of seeing her, and mingle our voices in “converse sweet.”
            This has been quite a warm day—think we will have rain soon.
 
 
132                                                      February 1862
 
Thus this week has passed.—and how little did we think a week ago that our station would be changed, and that we would probably never spend another week in Ft. Morgan. Thus, the uncertainty of the incidents pertaining to man, and just on so slender a thread does the life—the most precious gift of God—hang, & yet, how prone are we to forget, and continue in our ways of evil! Everything goes to illustrate the depravity of man, and it would be useless to “expatiate” farther.
Sabbath, Feb’y. 23rd
                                                                                                                        This morn I
arose at reveille call and attended the calling of the roll.
            We had the usual Sunday morn inspection today; but our guns were not inspected as we had had no time to clean them.
            This morn I spent in lying about & doing almost nothing.
            The boat came over about 12 M. today. She brought the mail—only three letters came for our company—and, of course, out of so few letters I would get none.
            The papers today state that 12 000 of our men were taken prisoners at Donelson. This is awful, and it is bad news.
            This after-noon I took a “healthy snooze” & awoke feeling quite refreshed.
            I took quite a stroll around the fort this after-noon, and am well pleased with the looks of things around this place.
 
 
                                                            February 1862                                                 133
 
Th        Today Col. Powell came over and placed Maury, Bradford & Forney under arrest for being drunk a few days since. Our reg’t. is now in a nice fix!—not a field officer. Capt. Lanier is now acting as our Col. I expect all our field officers will be cashiered—& I hope so.
            This after-noon Capt. Lanier offered me the appointment of Serg’t. Major, and I accepted—I guess I shall commence tomorrow to try my “exalted position.”
            Orders were read at dress-parade this eve that our company was to go to work tomorrow—just as I expected. Capt. Foster commanded at d-p-e.
Monday, Feb’y. 24th.
                                                                                                                        Last night a-
bout 10 o’clock there was an alarm given that the enemy were landing between here and our picket guard. This news came from a direct source—from our pickets, and caused us to think it was true. I never saw so much excitement and confusion—not a man had a cartridge. We marched directly into the fort, and was some time getting ammunition for the cannons. Capt. Lankfords Co. went out as scouts.—I was very much excited myself. We remained at our posts till near two o’clock A.M. where a picket guard of twenty men were called-for from our company. I volunteered my services. Lt. Mitchell, with us, marched about three quarters of a mile from here. He soon posted us on the beach, forming a substantial beach & picket guard.
            I must confess, I felt somewhat “tick-
 
 
134                                                      February 1862
 
lish, being by myself out where I was exposed. We stood till daylight this morn,—about 41/2 hours—I never was as glad to see the break of day before. I did not sleep a particle last night, nor did I see the sign of an enemy. I must say just here, that Dr. Mitchell is a loyal & magnanimous soldier. He spent the whole of the night between his sentinels. I was very sleepy this morn and immediately went to bed after coming in. I slept until about 11 A.M. when I awoke and partook freely of the scanty meal laid aside for me.—After breakfast Capt. L. ordered me to report at the Adjt’s. office, which I did. I have only been “takeing lessons” today—think I will like it pretty well.
            I failed to say that last night—just a few minutes before the alarm—Lt. Col. Smith was came over sent by Bragg to take command of this Post. He also had orders from Bragg to place all of our field officers in close confinement and to place sentinels over them. This is disgrace upon disgrace!—Lt. Col. S. appears to be a perfect gentleman.
            This after-noon I attended dress-parade as Serg’t. Maj. & I never felt more embarrassed in my life—An order was published stating that Capt. Watson’s resignation was accepted. Also an order prohibiting the selling of ardent spirits in Mobile or Baldwin County, except by order of a Surgeon or “established apothecary.”
            This has been a cool windy day.
 
 
                                                            February 1862                                                 135
 
Tuesday February 25th 1862.
                                                                                                                        This morn I a-
rose at about 7 o’clock feeling quite refreshed. Our company had no roll-call at reveille this morn, and if there had have been I would not have had to attend, as I am excused from all company roll-calls.
            Our company has been detailed for work.
            I was at guard-mount and felt somewhat embarrassed; but managed to get the guard mounted correctly, I think. Lt. Col. Smith attended and found fault with the negligence of O. Sergt’s. in reporting their details—for instance, they never carry their guns to guard mount. I think he is exactly right.
Today I have been acting as Orderly for the Adjutant and find it quite laborious—I do not intend to serve for him any more.
The boat came over this after-noon. I received two letters:—one, from Fos C. & one, from Sister Mattie—I was glad to hear from them, tho’ there was nothing very new in either of their letters.—The boat is taking away this eve all of the commissary supplies, except 40 days’ provisions for this reg’t.
            Col. Smith has been about the Adjt’s. office a good deal today. I like him very much indeed, & think he is a good off.
            This eve McIntyre (Col. Powell’s secratery) came over from Ft. Morgan. He says Powell complains of our Morning Reports being incorrect—and sent one back to be made over entirely. This is owing to the inexperience of Saint & myself, and they will have to allow
 
 
136                                                      February 1862
 
for me or “ship” me, for I can do no more than my best.
This has been quite a pleasant, sunny day.
Wednesday Feb’y. 26th.
                                                                                                                        Last night
about 7 o’clock the Gunnison came over with orders from Col. Powell to sen Lt. Col. Smith to send Col. Maury, Lt. Col. Bradford & Maj. Forney as prisoners to Ft. Morgan. Lt. Mitchell was detailed to go with them. I suppose these officers are to be placed in close confinement over there. This is bad; but I expect is right.
            This morn about 4 o’clock we were awaked by rain & the heaviest wind I ever witnessed. For about five minutes we tho’t the house would blow down, but finally the wind, to a great extent, ceased, and we repaired to our “bunks.” I was very much alarmed for a few moments—so were all of us.
            Col. Powell sent back the morning report of the 24th inst. to be made over; consequently I had two to make out this morn. So immediately after guard-mount I went to work & did not finish until 12 M.
            Col. Smith aided me in my task.
            This eve passed over—nothing new occurring. At dress-parade several orders were published; but they are not worthy of a rehearsal here. Capt. Foster commanded. I have failed to say that Lieut. Roberson has been appointed Adjutant for the remainder of his term of service. He is a very good Adj’t.
            This has been quite a pleasant day.
This concludes the page.
 
 
                                                            February 1862                                                 137
 
Thursday February 27th 1862.
                                                                                                                        This morn I
did not arise until about 7 o’clock, when I arose and partook heartily of my morning meal.
            At 8 A.M. I attended guard-mount immediately after which I went to work & finished my Morning Report (the time Col. Powell allows.) Directly the boat came over from Ft. M. bringing three Morn. reports from Col. P. which he had sent back for being incorrect. The boat came over after the balance of the Commissary stores. The did not bring the mail—no news in today’s papers.—It seems that it is impossible for me to get a report fixed out to please Col. Powell; but this after-noon I think I have fixed them right, and hope they may meet with Powell’s approbation; for I very much dislike for them to be returned.
            This after-noon at dress-parade Capt. Foster commanded—The order was issued—that Lt. Carr was the Provost Martial of this place, and it will be his duty to see that every stranger shall show his pass from HdQtrs. He also has to see that no liquors are brought over.
            This has been a beautiful & pleasant day.
Friday Feb’y. 28th.
                                                                                                                        This morn I
arose to early breakfast, of which I heartily partook. After breakfast I attended guard-mount—nothing new occurring.—This morn Col. Smith &
 
 
138                                                      February 1862 March
 
Lt. Robison made out the morning report, and Maas (Adjt’s. Secratary) and I had a regemental Monthly Return to prepare. This is the largest task I ever undertook in writing.
            The A boat (not the regular transport) came over this after-noon—She brought the mail—I recd two letters: one from Annie & one from my friend J. T. McC.—I was some what disappointed, as I did not hear from my “dearest”—; but, however, was glad to hear from her & my old room-mate.
            The regular monthly muster and inspection was executed this P.M. Col. Smith commanded, and inspected closely. I had to go around with him, and was badly “bored.”
            Maas & I have not near finished the two Returns which we ought to have done by tonight. As the Col. had been so indulgent towards us in allowing us our own time, I offerred to go back to the Adjt’s. office after supper & complete our task. He was glad to accept the offer—at least, appeared so—So tonight we will go to work.
Saturday March 1st 1862
                                                                                                                        Last night
we worked until near 1 o’clock, and I was completely worn out. We nearly finished both of our Returns. This morn I did not arise until near guard mount. After breakfast I felt as fresh as if I had had a long night’s rest. Immediately after guard-mount I went to work, &
 
 
March                                                  February 1862                                                 139
 
we soon finished our arduous task of yesterday. Col. Smith & Lt. Robison again made out my Morning Report.
            The boat came over today, but I do not know what was her business. She brought no mail.
This after-noon, being at leisure, I came over, & cleaned up my gun. Capt. Lanier brought over the news from Fort Morgan that this Reg’t. was ordered to Nashville Tenn. I hope it is so.
            Nothing new at dress-parade.
This eve Capt. Jones came over from Fort M. that we were with the news that we were to be moved to Corinth—that we were to leave here Monday. I can hardly believe this; but I hope we will be ordered away soon.
Sabbath March 2nd
                                                                                                                        This morn I
arose to late breakfast. I forgot to go after my detail, and, consequently could not tell whether the serg’ts. reports were correct or not. Lt. Robison gave me a scolding for my negligence. I had my report finished in time today. Dick Clarke came over today and said it was all a mistake about us being ordered off. I hope he is mistaken.—Col. Smith is very busy today looking over the company Pay-rolls—He is a business man—I like him better & better every day. He is cool, firm & deliberate
 
 
140                                                      March 1862
 
            This afternoon Maj. O’Bannon came over, with papers stating that he was assigned to the command of this reg’t. and that he & the reg’t. were ordered to Tenn, by way of Corinth Miss. This is true, as well as good.
            We are to cook provisions for five days’ use—to be provided with tents, Knapsacks, Havre-sacks and canteens. We are to leave here tomorrow after-noon—leave Mobile by Wednesday, at farthest.
            Maj. O’Bannon informs us that we have abandoned Pensacola, and that Hd Q’rt’r’s. was considering the propriety of abandoning Mobile. He also said that the enemy were partially evacuating Fort Pickens & Ship Island. It seems that the enemy too are concentrating all of their forces, as well as, we to Tenn. When a fight does take place there, I believe it will be the most desperate battle on record! If we conquor I believe it will determine the conflict in our favor, and I believe our mercenary foe will grant us that peace & liberty for which we have all the while been fighting.
Monday March 3rd
                                                                                                                        This morn
I arose about sun-rise. I had quite a cold night’s rest. It turned quite cold in the night & caught me unprepared.
 
 
                                                            March 1862                                                     141
 
I had a very cold time at guard-mount, having to face the wind.
            After guard-mount I soon finished my Morning Report, and made out my guard detail, and then I have nothing to do but remain at the Adjt’s. office, and assist in any business that may come up. I assisted the Col. in rehearsing the Pay-Rolls of the companies. This he finished about 1 P.M. A boat came over this after-noon, but did not come after us. It was a mistake about us leaving today; but we will undoubtedly leave here before Wednesday—at least, Maj O’Bannon said so; so we are having to spend one more night in Fort Gaines.
            The boys have been busily engaged all day in packing up.
This after-noon we had quite a cold time—no news. This has been a very cold day, and the “poor Sentinels” are having a cold night of it—I am more than glad that I have no guard duty to perform.
            I failed to say that Col. Smith had petitioned to Gen. Jones to let him (Col. S.) go with us to Tenn. I do sincerely hope he will be allowed to go with us, for I had rather fight under him than any officer I ever saw. Last evening at dress parade, his farewell to the reg’t. was published—I have it in his own hand-writing, & for safe-keeping I shall paste it on the next page
 
 
142                  [pasted]
March 1862
                                                                                                            March 2nd 1862
The Lieutenant Col Commanding tends to the Officers & Privates of the 2nd Ala Regiment his sincere thanks for their Kind treatment and gentlemanly and Soldierly bearing towards him during the time that he has been in command. He also assures them that it is with great reluctance on his part that the connection is severed. Duty divides us and as he cannot accompany them to their new field of Danger, He begs them to accept His best wishes for their Welfair Hopeing that they may succeed in aiding materially in driving out the Hordes of mercenary fanatics that now are invading our beloved South. He congratulates them that they have an Officer to lead them of tried valor, a true Patriot, and an uncompromising enemy to the North
 
 
 
Tuesday March 4th 1862
 
 
 
 
                                                            March 1862                                                     143
 
March 30
            On the 4th of March we left Fort Gaines. Were ordered to Corinth Miss. We left Mobile on the 6th Mch for the our place of destination, in common old box cars, & quite a rough time we did have, and I never did see cars travel so slowly. We were two or three days getting to Corinth, & got but little to eat, and scarcely any sleep on our way—hence, we were near worn out when we arrived to our C—, and felt very much like getting off the cars in order to rest & procure something to eat, for I felt very near worn out. But without getting out of the cars we were ordered to Fort Pillow Tenn.—about two more days of tiresome travel. We remained at Corinth about two or three hours. While there I saw two of my old Tuska friends—Newt Clement & Bill Hopkins. The former is Captain & the latter a 1st Lieut. in volunteer Companies.
            We arrived at Fort Pillow about 1 o’clock A.M. on the 10th inst. but did not get off the boat until about sunrise. We found Fort Pillow to be the hilliest Country I ever saw. It is situated immediately on the banks of the Mississippi river; but looks nothing like the forts we have been accustomed to. We lived in tents on a high hill & had woods sur-
 
 
144
 
rounding us which reminded me very much of the lovliness of country life. Jno Going, Bill Spillman, Jube Barham & myself tented together. We had quite a pleasant time. We found but one regement besides ours & Maj. O’Bannon’s battalion at this place. This was not near a sufficient force to garrison that place. I think 25000 men could be put to a very good use there.
            The short time we stayed there passed off very pleasantly. On the 17th Mch the reenlisting spirit seized our camps & new companies were formed of Capt’s. Lanier’s, Lankford’s, Foster’s & Lewis’ Companies. I myself reenlisted for two years or the war; and a serious matter it was to me, to give myself up to my country; but it was my duty & I did so. Little did I think six weeks ago that I would by this time be a soldier “for the war!”
                                                                                                Ruf L. Hughes
 
 
                                                            1862                                                                145
 
Camp Hardee Near Columbus Miss.
Monday August 4th 1862.
                                                                                                                        Owing to
the inconvenience of keeping up my Journal for the past few months, I have only kept a small pocket Diary. I do not now intend to keep it up regularly, as I do not know at what time we may be ordered from here, and should we, I cannot carry this.
            Since I wrote the preceeding page we have been through quite an interesting part of our history. There were about sixty five of our old Company reenlisted—about half wanting Cas. Mitchell for our Capt., & about half wanting Best. I, of course, was in the Mitchell squad. We expected to go home and form two companies, with recruits; but, unluckily everybody had volunteered on account of a draft that was near at hand. We met at Bridgeville on the 14th of April and tried to make a compromise with the “Best men.” We offered them Captaincy if they would let us have Cas. for 1st Lieut; but they would not do this. So we—37 in number—left there, and elected Cas. our Capt. with the full determination to return to Fort Pillow as a squad. The “Best men” numbered about 65, and they propesied that we would soon have to return to them for succour. But time proved the reverse to be true. When we left this place we expected to go to Ft. Pillow; but on arriving at [?] we met Capt Foster’s
 
 
146                                                      1862
 
company which was ordered to rendesvouz at this place, and as we were going to join the same regt (Col. Portis) we returned also. We immediately set out to recruiting, and in a short while had 77 men—the requisite number. This the 42nd Regt. of Ala Volunteers was organized on the 26th May 1862. We elected Cas. Mitchell our Capt. & Jerome Clauton our 1st Lieut, A. W. McGowen our 2nd Lieut. & Mark Clauton our 2nd B’v’t Lieut. Capt. Best has died, and is now among the “fallen brave.” Wells is their present Capt. Williams & Upchurch their 1st & 2nd Lts. Jno. Jones has since been appointed their 2nd B’v’t. Lt.
            x          x          x          x          x          x          x          x          x            x          x
            The present now finds us in a—“Camp of Instruction” one & a half miles south of Columbus Miss. A pleasant place it is; but what an honor! To think! we have been in the service fifteen or sixteen months, & have just got into a “Camp of Instruction!” I think it is a disgrace to us.
 
 
                                                                                                                                    147
 
                                                                                                Camp Hardee Aug 6th ’62
            Our Reg’t has rec’d. orders to go to Tupelo Miss. I expect we will leave tomorrow.
 
My dear parents:
                                                                                                                        Again we have
orders to leave our homes to visit the field of danger I expect. I say leave our homes, for this place is almost equal to being at home, for here we could hear from you & see you if was anything seriously the matter. But now we are to leave, and I feel like I wanted to go, although I dislike the idea of leaving. We have been transferred from Bragg’s to Price’s Division, and I would not be surprised if we were soon in Missouri.
                                                                                                I have nothing more to write.
In a hurry                                                                    Remember your affectionate son in
                                                                        your prayers.               Rufus L. Hughes
 
Thursday, Aug 7th ’62
                                                                                                                        It was a
mistake that we had marching orders yesterday. We only had orders to prepare four days’ rations. This lead us to believe that we would certainly leave here; but to our disappointment, the probability of us leaving this place has entirely subsided vanished. Cols McLean’s & Dowdell’s regements left yesterday. I believe for Chattanooga.
            Newt Hughes is very sick with bilious colic tonight. He was taken very suddenly.
 
 
148
 
Friday Aug. 8th 1862.
            This morn I awoke feeling unwell with Diarrhoea. I sent my name to the Hospital and was excused for the day. Newt is much better today.
            I spent all the fore-noon in sleep. This was the effects of a large dose of Laudanum I had taken.
            This has been an extremely warm day.
            I feel somewhat unwell tonight.
 
Sabbath Aug. 10th
                                                                                                            Arose this morn
feeling pretty well. Went on duty.
            Today I heard Dr. Lyon preach a very good sermon. But I do not like his looks much.
            Took dinner at Cady’s; but did not get much better dinner than I would have got at Camps.
 
 
                                                                                                                                    149
 
Monday August 11th 1862.
                                                                                                                        This morn
I was detailed for General Guard. I attended guard-mount, and went to town where I was sent to the Armory for guard. This is a very good Post.
            This is a very warm day.
            Nothing new occurred on guard.
            We have the news that “Stonewall” has met Pope, and routed his whole army. I hope it is true.
 
Tuesday August 12th ’62
            This morn I was awaked at 5 o’clock to stand my last tour of duty. I stood till 7 A.M. when I was relieved. About 9 A.M. we were relieved by the new guard, when we returned to the camp. When I reached here I found a carriage opposite our company’s line, and, as a matter of course, I was eager to see who were the “contents.” I found them to be strangers to me. One of them was Jno Hughes’ sister, and two Misses Glenn. I went out & found their acquaintance, and was highly pleased with them.
            This is a disagreeably warm day.
            This after-noon we had quite a refreshing shower.
 
 
150
 
Friday August 15th 1862
                                                                                                            About 11 o’clock
this morn Mrs Kerr & Miss Fannie Murray passed here with two other young ladies in the carriage with them. They did not stop, but passed waving their handkerchiefs, and appeared to be in fine spirits. I was glad they did not stop, for I did not want to see them, and could not have well avoided it had they have done so. They passed back this after-noon, without stopping, I suppose, while I was asleep. Fon & Ches says they met them between here and town & had quite an interesting time with them.
 
Saturday August 16th 1862
                                                                                                                        This morn
I got a pass to go to town. I visited Mrs Simpson—stayed there about an hour. Got Annie’s Album. Went to Anizi Love’s—spent the greater portion of the day there, & had a very pleasant time.
            Jim G., John Hughes & Capt. Mitchell went a visiting out in the country today. John H. & the Captain went home. They will be back tomorrow (I guess.)
            Cicero Hughes came up this eve from home. He brought me a letter. All were well at home. Cicero is going to join us. If many more Hugheses join us half of the company will be of that name.
 
 
                                                                                                                                    151
 
Sunday August 17th ’62
                                                                                                                        I arose this
morn about 7 o’clock, and directly afterwards did more than justice to my morning meal.
            I was detailed for Camp Guard, and at the usual hour attended guard mounting. My post is at the Guard-tent—the meanest place round the camp, for there the sentinel has to walk his post.
            This eve one of Brigg’s men was put under guard—also two of Capt. Perkins’ men. The latter are Deserters.
 
Monday August 18th ’62
                                                                                                                        This morn
the old Guard was relieved at the proper time, and I was glad, for I felt somewhat tired.
            Cicero has joined us & this morn left for home to spend a ten days’ furlough. Would that I get a furlough of a few days, that I might go home!
 
 
152
 
Tuesday August 19th ’62
                                                                                                                        This has
been quite a warm day.
            This after-noon Mr & Mrs McKinstry & Mrs Giles & Miss. McKinstry came up from
 
Monday Sept. 1st 1862
                                                                                                                        This is a
day which stands brightest on the record of my history. Today two years would tell the the a tale could it arise from the tomb of oblivion and be allowed to rehearse the occurrences which occurred during its hours.
            On the 21st August Sergt. R. O. Billups, Nat Mitchell & myself were detailed to take a prisoner to Chattanooga. I was delighted at the idea; for we had it on our programme to return by home. We went by Mobile, Pollard, Montgomery, West-Point & Atlanta, and returned by the same places. We had a fine time “en route,” with the exception of a rush of travel. We reached home on Wednesday eve, 27th Aug. and  left yesterday arriving here about 71/2 o’clock last night. I had a delightful time at home—never enjoyed three days better in my life. I saw my “sweetheart” several times while there, and it would be useless for me to attempt a description of the real
 
 
September                                                       1862                                                    153
 
happiness afforded me by her company.
            We had quite a heavy rain yester-eve & last night. This, too, has been quite a rainy day. I hope these rains have extended to our portion of the country.
            On our return we found our camps removed from where we were—near Bluite’s bridge to a spot near the Fair Grounds. I like this part of town better than I did where we were before; but do not like the particular locality selected for the camps.
            I failed to say that when I went home I found Mattie & Mary absent. They with cousin Mollie G. had come here to see Jim & myself. I regretted their absence. When I came here I found they had gone out to cousin Denon Love’s. They were to return to this place this P.M. but did not come—owing to the wet weather, I guess. It seems I cannot get to see them.
 
 
154                                                                  1862
September
Tuesday Sept. 2nd1862
                                                                                                                        We had no
drill this morn—neither before; nor after breakfast. Of course, I was highly pleased at this.
This after-noon I attended battalion drill. I never attended a poorer drill, I do not believe. While on drill the girls came. Immediately afterwards I went to see them. I was happy to meet them. With them Jim & I took tea at Mr. Larrabee’s, where we stayed until about 8 P.M. when we went to Anizi Love’s. Jim & I came to the Camp tonight about 12 o’clock.
            There was some excitement in town tonight in regard to the taking of a “Conscript.” The citizen’s of C—s. opposed the taking of him.
Wednesday Sept. 3rd
                                                                                                                        This morn
Jim & I tried every scheme to get a “pass” to spend the day with the girls, but failing to get one satisfactorily, we went somewhat on our own responsibilities. We spent the fore-noon very pleasantly at Coz. A. Love’s. In the P.M. we went out to Mr. Gaston’s, where we spent a short while very agreeably.
            About 8 o’clock tonight our company & Capt. McNeal’s were ordered to escort the Conscript of whom I spoke last night to the Depot to be sent to Tupelo. We expected a “row”, but everything passed off quietly. Three of our men were detailed to take him to Tupelo.
 
 
                                                                        1862                                                    155
 
Thursday Sept. 4th 1862
                                                                                                                        This morning
the girls left for home, Jim & I did not go up to see them.
            We had no drills today.
            Wrote a particular letter today.
            At dress-parade some glorious news was read. We have gained a glowing victory again at Manassas, Also at Richmond Ky. Gen. Kirby Smith has gained a glowing victory.
 
Friday Sept. 5th
                                                                                                                        I was de-
tailed on General Guard today; but exchanged with Corp’l. Boughton for Camp Guard. I am Corp’l. of the 1st Relief. Will have a pleasant time tonight, as it is quite clear, and will be a moon-shiny night.
            The news hav of yesterday has been confirmed, and it is as good as true. Our men who went to Tupelo returned today. Nothing was done with the “Conscript” only sent to his own regiment. Some seem to think he was treated unjustly, & I expect he was.
 
 
156  September                                               1862
 
Saturday Sept. 6th
                                                                                                                                    I had
a beautiful night for duty, and enjoyed it as well as I ever I did in my life. I had a delightful time thinking of “her”, though absent, yet, present in thought.
            I waked up this morn about 81/2 o’clock, feeling quite refreshed.
            About 11 o’clock this morn Mrs Kerr, Miss Fannie Murray, Miss Coleman & Miss Dodson came to our camp. They spent the day with us, and I enjoyed it very much. Miss Fannie pretended to be mad with me for not replying to her letter. I do not know whether she is or not, & do not care much.
            They took Jim Going, Ches Hughes & Eddins—& Lt. McGowen home with them. I wish them a happy time.
            I attended dress-parade—Nothing new.
 
 
September.                                                      1862                                                    157
 
Sabbath Sept. 7th
                                                                                                                        This morn we
(Ches H. Tal. Adams & I) went to preaching. We attended the Baptist church. Did not hear a very good sermon. A Mr.Keat preached. There is a protracted meeting going on at this church.
            I attended preaching again tonight at the Baptist church. Heard a sermon of an hour and a quarter.
            The boys returned from Capt. Murray’s tonight. I never saw boys better pleased with a trip.
            Say nothing about this trip.
                        Recd a note from Fannie tonight by Ches. Was not at all proud to hear from her.
Monday Sept. 8th
                                                                                                                        This morn
I attended drill before breakfast.
            After breakfast I was detached to clerk in Capt. Higgason’s (our A.Q.M.) office. I will now be relieved from all guard duty & drill. I think I will like it finely.
            I have the toothache very badly this morn. Had a jaw-toothe extracted today; but have another that pains me severely.
 
 
158  September                                               1862
 
Tuesday Sept. 9th
                                                                                                                        This morn
I awoke with a severe tootheache. After breakfast I went to town & passed through the painful operation of having another jaw-toothe extracted. This morn I feel sick from the effects of my teeth.
            Sgt. Craig (Qr. Master S’g’t.) has got a furlough of ten days to visit his home. I will now have to perform both his & my duties.
            I wrote a cold, but friendly letter to M. Fannie today; but not without regret.
 
 
September.                                                      1862                                                    159
 
Wednesday Sep. 10th 1862
                                                                                                                                    I had a
good night’s rest, and awoke feeling refreshed; but I have a slight touch of Neuralgia in my jaw. I have quite a pleasant time now; but how can I have any other kind of time, when I am with one of the most gentlemanly men in the regement?
            This after-noon at dress-parade several orders were read—amongst other orders was marching orders for us. We are ordered to leave here for Tupelo tomorrow night on the cars.
            The boys all seem delighted at the idea of leaving; but I cannot say that I rejoice at the idea.
            There are a good many reasons why I prefer remaining here; but I cheerfully go wherever we may be ordered.
            I wrote one letter home tonight, and a particular epistle.
 
 
160
 
Thursday September 10th 1863—
            It having been twelve months today since I last wrote in this book, it is very natural to suppose I have undergone some changes and have witnessed many scenes during that period.
            In the mean time I have endured more hardships, and have undergone more privations than I had any idea I was capable of bearing.—Our command fought & retreated from Corinth to Vicksburg, where they were finally driven to the humiliating, as well as, destructive necessity of surrendering themselves to the enemy.
            This was a severe blow to us and to our cause; but we have recovered—at least, nearly so, from this sad calamity.
            Vicksburg with its garrison was surrendered on the 4th day of July 1863—and, a memorable fourth it will be to us! Never will I forget the horrible feelings caused to come over me when I saw our position—one in which we took so much pride on account of its strength—held by the enemy—I felt as though we had lost our all, and that it was irretrievably lost!—I felt that it was useless for us to undertake to resist our merciless foe,—that he would invariably out-do us—But it was wrong in me to so give way to dispondency, although such feelings were far from groundless. But, at length I succeeded in banishing all such feelings, and when we are exchanged, our men will again meet the foe with the same heroic gallantry and bravery by which they were characterized both by their friends and by their foes.
                                                                                                            This has been quite
 
 
                                                                                                                                    161
 
a warm and sultry day; but its hours have been very pleasantly spent by me—especially this after-noon, being honored by with a call by my sweetheart & a Miss McAllister from Aberdeen, and also by Mr Sam Hood and Mr Tuck Goodwin.
            In after years, when perusing this I may be at a loss to know why Tuck & Sam were at home at this crisis when every able-bodied man is so much needed in our country’s defence. So I will just here say that Tuck has a stiff arm which is the effect of a wound received inVirginia, rendering him unfit for service.
            Sam has a very bad wound received in his left arm at the battle of Gettysburg, which is not yet well—These reasons fully exonerate both of these gentlemen for their seeming direlection of duty.—
            Since the first organization of our company our 1st Lieut. (Jerome Clauton) has resigned & Sergt J. A. Gibson was elected to fill the vacancy of 3d Lieut. We could not have given the position to a better, or more worthy man.
            At the battle of Corinth my mess suffered heavily—Newt Hughes was killed—Jube Barham, Jim Going and Nat. Mitchell & Bob Brown were wounded. Jube has since died from his wounds, & Nat I fear will never get well.
            Jim & Bob have entirely recovered from their wounds.
            During the Siege of Vicksburg Bob Barham was very low with typhoid fever—and died on the 6th or 7th of July 1863.
 
 
162
 
I see I have never recorded the names of the members of our Mess, nor the titles elected for the same. We style ourselves
“The Ladies Mess,”
                                                                                    And while at
Columbus we were as follows:
Sergt    J. A. Gibson
“          Jno. B. G. Hughes
“          Robt Brown
“          R. O. Billups
Private Robt. Barham
“          Jno. A. Billups
“          Jno. E. Billups
“          Wm A. Brown
“          C. H. Barham
“          J. A. Going
“          N. H. Hughes
“          C. R. Hughes
“          C. T. Hughes
“          W. N. Mitchell
“          Robt. Jordan
“          J. R. Richardson
“          Ruf L. Hughes
                                    Making seventeen. Since then we have been reduced to eleven—Sergt Gibson by virtue of his promotion left us to mess with the other officers—Robt & Jube Barham & Newt Hughes have been taken from us by death—Jim Going is detached to a Signal Corps which separates him from us, and Nat Mitchell will never be able to join us again on account of his wound.
 
 
                                                                                                                                    163
 
            Wm Brown died in 1864 (I believe) as he was on his way home from prison—in So. Ca.
            Jno. Hughes died in the spring of 1865 on his return from prison—In Tenn.
 
 
                                                                                                                                    165
 
April 26th 1865
            The Army of Tennessee was today surrendered by that gallant old chieftan Jos E. Johnston, to Gen. W. T. Sherman U.S.A. The fall of the Virginia army occasioned the fall of our Army. These two armies—once as good as the world ever saw—were the props to the Confederacy, & with their fall our Country was doomed to ruin.
            Sad is the thought! But we have spent four years—long & tedious years—for nought, & the amount of blood and treasure we have expended has been immense.
            We now have nothing but darkness ahead of us—
            Gloomy! Gloomy!! is our future! but He who decides the fate of battles knows what is best, and it is his will that we should be a subjugated people, and we would humbly ask of him to give us resignation, with a feeling that it is “all for the best.”
 
 
166
 
            Route travelled by R. L. Hughes on his return home from the army after the surrender.
 
Miles   Chesterville                            South Carolina
15        Fishdam (Broadview)             “          “
9          Hamilton’s Ford (Tiger River) “        “
7          Goshen                                    “          “
8          Enoree river                            “          “
20        Liberty Hill                             “          “
5          Swansey’s Ferry (Saluda river) “       “
25        Abbeville C. H.                       “          “
27        Barksdale’s Ferry (Savannah river) Ga. & S.C. Line
5          Goshen                                                Georgia
18        Washington                                         “
23        Union Point                                         “
7          Greensboro                                         “
8          Park’s Bridge (Oconee river)             “
23        Shady Dale (or Whitfield)                  “
8          Pittman’s Ferry (Ocmulgee river)      “
9          Jackson                                               “
8          Toulaggee river                                   “
14        Griffin                                                 “
20        Flat Shoals (Flint river)                      “
13        Greenville                                           “
20        LaGrange                                            “
8          Vernon (Chattahoochee river)                        “
9          Hickory Flat                                        Alabama
20        Fielder’s Ferry (Tallapoosa river)      “
5          Davison                                               “
23        Pinkneyville                                        “
6          Brownsville                                        “
29        Fort Williams (Coosa river)               “
8          Shelby Iron Works                              “
17        Montevallo                                         “
12        Alexander’s Ferry (Cahambra river)  “
28        Tuscaloosa      Foster’s Ferry (Warrior river)
25        Pleasant Grove                                    “
15 =     Bridgeville                                          “
   497 miles
 
 
                                                                                                                                    167
 
Chesterville, South Carolina
May 6th 1865
            Maj. J. D. Cross C.S. of Nashville Tenn., Thos H. Fletcher of Murfreesboro Tenn., and Ruf L. Hughes of Bridgeville Ala., having received their paroles at Chesterville S.C., today left for their homes—Left C. about 10 A.M. on Saturday the 6th day of May. They stopped at 12 M. and took dinner with a Mr. DeGraffenreid—Crossed Broad River at Fishdam—Found the boat on the opposite side—Hughes swam a horse across & poled the boat back. Fletcher said he must swim the next river, as he, too, wished to do something romantic.
            We were somewhat troubled finding a place to spend the night—At last stopped at a Mr Thomas’—No white person was at home; but the negroes took us in and fed our horses bountifully—We travelled twenty five miles (25)
            May 7th Crossed Tiger River early this morning at Hamiltons Ford—breakfasted on the road—Passed a little place called Goshen. Crossed the Enoree river—Spent the night with a Mr Ryser—He was an overseer of an estate, and, consequently, had every thing his own way as though the place belonged to him—
He fed both us and our horses bountifully—And besides gave us a drink of good corn whiskey—
Travelled Twenty eight miles (28)
            May 8th Ryser gave us another “horn” this morning—We left there about 61/2 A.M. It being cloudy & rainy all day, we did not have the sun to guide us; in consequence of which we went six miles on a wrong road before we knew we were wrong & had to go back over the same road, making twelve miles out of our way.
We crossed the Saluda river at Swansey’s (or Puckett’s) Ferry about 5 P.M. Spent the night
 
 
168
 
near Cokesbury with a very clever old gentleman named Buchanan—We travelled about thirty five or forty miles today (35 or 40)—I failed to say in the proper place, that Cross swapped horses on the road today with an old gent. named Clark—
            May 9th We did not go by Cokesbury, as that was not on our direct route. Reached Abbeville C.H. about 12 M. Where we examined some maps & selected our route—Fletcher left us here, as his route direct for Murfreesboro was higher up than was ours—I disliked to see him start such a trip by himself; for I thought a great deal of “Fletch”—But he was anxious to see his “wife & babies” and was taking a direct line for his home—Cross was going by Columbus Miss., to see his older brother—This threw him & Hughes together all the way to the latter’s Home.
            Stopped for the night with a Mr Britt—Travelled thirty one miles—(31)
            May 10th Last night was the first time on this trip that we have slept in a house—Heretofore have slept in or near the stables.
            Forded Little River at Calhoun’s Mills—
            Bid Farewell to So. Carolina, crossed Savannah now at Barksdale’s Ferry about 10 A.M. and once more tread on Georgia’s soil.—We came four or five miles to a little village (Goshen) where we spent about an hour with Capt. Sales—an old gentleman with whom Maj. Cross had spent a night as he was going on to the army—We passed Washington late in the afternoon—There we found the first Federal garrison we had met on our way.—We drew rations from the Feds. This night we found much difficulty in getting a place to stop—The people were almost entirely eaten out
 
 
                                                                                                                                    169
 
If it had not been that we had rations we would have hardly found any place at all. We, at last, spent the night with a Mrs Smith & did tolerably well—slept at the stable again—Travelled today Thirty eight Miles (38)
            May 11th We started from Mrs Smith’s about 61/2 A.M. It rained about one P.M. and we did not stop until we were well saturated with water—Passed through Uniontown, and stopped out of the rain with a Mr Taspley—a very old man—who told us of wretched treatment received from the yankees—After the rain was over we again rode until about 6 P.M. when we put up for the night with a Mr Hart—a hard old case—He would not take us in until we told him we had specie—He was the first man to take any pay from us—(23)
            May 12th Passed Greensboro Ga. about 8 A.M. Found yankees there—They did not disturb us—Cross called to see a lady acquaintance (Mrs Maj. Moore) & Hughes went into the Court House and examined the maps—
            We crossed Oconee river at “Park’s Bridge”—
            Were ferried over by yankees—Spent the night with a Capt. Horseley—who was truly a clever gentleman. (30) Thirty miles travelled today.
            May 13th. Passed Shady Dale three miles from Capt. Horseley’s—Just this side of Shady Dale (Whitfield) Cross tried to trade his horse for a buggy, & would have traded very probably; but Hughes’ horse would not work. Crossed the Ocmulgee river at Pittman’s ferry, where, to our agreeable surprise, we found no yankees—Passed through Jackson, and now we begin to inquire for Griffin—This sounds like getting towards home.
 
 
170
 
Found some difficulty getting a place to stop—Spent the night with a Mr Watkins—a pretty rough old fellow; but disposed to be clever.
Travelled thirty three miles (33)
            May 14th Left Mr Watkins about 7 A.M. and travelled three miles to Toulaggee river—It being the Sabbath we concluded we would rest ourselves and our horses on the bank of the river & did so. We remained there the greater portion of the day—Both of us took a bathe—We visited a Still which was close by—It was the first one Hughes ever saw—Drank some of the beer.—Travelled five or six miles in the afternoon, and spent the night with a Mr Jester—
Today’s march was some eight or ten miles (8 or 10)
            May 15. Left Mr Jester’s about 6 A.M. Passed Griffin about 10 A.M. We heard at Griffin that the Yankees had captured Prest Davis—We are not disposed to credit it.
            Today, for the second time, we stopped for our dinner, with a Mr Simmons—There I saw an old lady manufacturing silk for the first time in my life—She showed her worms, explained the whole process of making thread, &c.
            On the road we were stopped by three Federal cavalry, who questioned us, and examined our paroles—We crossed Flint River at Flat Shoals—and came to a Mr Crouch’s where we spent the night but could not get in there until Cross promised the old lady one dollar in specie, with the promise to use no more corn than was actually necessary. Upon our introduction to the corn-crib we found more corn than we had seen any where before—consequently our horses did not suffer.—Travelled thirty three miles (33)
 
 
                                                                                                                                    171
 
May 16th Payed Mrs Crouch one dollar in specie & Fifty in Confederate, and left her “alone in her glory” at 61/2 A.M.—Passed Greenville about 10 A.M.—Stopped six miles this side of G-v-e and had some clothes washed—got a bundle of Fodder apiece for our horses—Passed through LaGrange about 6 P.M. and came out five miles west of town where we spent the night with a Mr Tatum. Came thirty five miles today (35)
            May 17th. Crossed the Chattahoochee river at Vernon—Maj. Cross traded horses again a few miles this side of the river.
            Once more crossed the lines of Georgia and entered the confines of my own native State—Passed a little village called Hicory Flat. Had some rain today—Stopped for the night with a Mrs Willoughby—Travelled thirty miles (30)
            May 18th Started this morning at 6 o’clock. Crossed the Tallapoosa river at Fielder’s Ferry—Passed a little post-office called Davidson.—Stopped at 12M. and grazed our horses until 2 P.M.—Crossed Hillaby creek six miles east of Pinkneyville, and came to that village, where we spent the night with a very old man named Baker—He was a hard old case—Had but little for either us or our horses to eat—Some rain again today, and it looks as though it would rain all night.—Slept with our horses—Travelled thirty one miles (31).
            May 19. Left Mr Baker’s at 6 A.M. Passed through Brownsville about 8 A.M. and about a quarter from there crossed Hatchet creek. There we saw a sign-board to Tuskaloosa—One Hundred miles. It really
 
 
172
 
sounded like getting home to even see a “finger-board” with Tuskaloosa on it.
We travelled about twenty miles today by 12 M.; stopped at 12 oc. and rested our horses an hour. Started again at 1 P.M., going through a very poor, mountainous country—reached the valley of the Coosa later in the afternoon, finding a more wealthy section of the country.—Spent the night with a wealthy man named Averytt, who was able and willing to help us along.—I shall not forget Mrs A—she was a “stormer.”—Four other soldiers spent the night there also.—Travelled today twenty nine miles (29)
            May 20th. Slept last night with our horses—Left Averitt’s at 61/2 A.M. in company with the soldiers who spent the night with us—Cross stopped on the road to have a shoe nailed on his horse’s foot. Hughes stopped with him—The aforesaid soldiers went on to the river (Coosa) where they promised to wait for us—
            We crossed the Coosa river at Fort Williams, where we caught up with our new companions—Stopped at the Shelby Iron Works and rested an hour—Found these works had been almost completely destroyed by the enemy.—Passed through Montevallo about sunset, where we parted with our soldier friends as they were going from there to Centreville, while we were going to Tuskaloosa.—We met Paul Lewis—an old college-mate of Hughes, just out of town—He recommended us to go to Davis to spend the night—We went there and
 
 
                                                                                                                                    173
 
found Mr (or Dr.?) Davis to be quite a nice gentleman.—Travelled today thirty four long miles—(34)
            May 21st Left Davis’ at 61/2 A.M. and travelled about twenty miles, and then spent an hour in resting ourselves & steeds—Cross and Hughes both took a bathe and put on clean clothes.—We learned that Fos Clements—an old college & room-mate of Hughes—lived about ten miles out of our way, and we concluded to go by to see him, as Hughes was anxious to do so.—After a long and tedious ride we reached Mr Clements, where Hughes very gladly met his old friend Fos—We spent the evening and very pleasantly, apparently, to both of us. We travelled thirty eight or forty miles—(38 or 40)
            May 22. After a refreshing sleep upon a good bed, we awoke to behold the beauties of another spring morn.—We remained at Mr Clements’ until about 91/2 o’clock A.M.—Travelled about ten miles, and stopped about an hour & a half to rest. I failed to speak of a beautiful spring we saw at Mr Clements—It was very large, and deep, and as clear as crystal. It had several kinds of colored mosses growing in it, which made a beautiful piece of scenery.—We reached Tuskaloosa about 5 P.M. There we saw the buildings of the Old University lie mouldering in ashes—the work of an invader’s torch—It looked sad; and sad indeed was the spectacle to Hughes’ eyes, to see his cherished “Alma Mater” so ruthlessly cut down to the ground.
 
 
174
 
            Hughes met up with several of his old college-mates in Tusk-a, among whom were Bill Hester & Jno Caldwell—He was warmly invited by both of these to spend the night with them—He accepted Jno C’s. invitation, as he lived five miles out of town toward Hughes’ home—On our way out to Jno Caldwell’s we passed by the residence of Misses Mollie & Nonie Eddins, and, of course, Hughes could not pass without calling—Spent a few moments there very pleasantly.—Spent the evening at Mr Caldwell’s very agreeably—(23)
            May 23. We left Mr Caldwell’s about 7 A.M. Crossed the Warrior river at Foster’s Ferry—Stopped to see the “modus operandi” of the jug factory—Stopped an hour on the road, and arrived at Mr. A. E. Going’s about 41/2 P.M. (an uncle of Hughes) Had not been there more than two hours before we were told that the yankees were at King’s Store, on their way from Tuskaloosa to Columbus—This did not surprise us, however, as we had heard all along today that they were coming on. Mr. Goings’ daughters & Miss Mattie Hughes (Hughes’ cousins & sister) were gone to Mr Jos Cook’s to spend the day—They returned about sunset—After tea we went over to Mr. E. T. Going’s (another uncle of Hughes) where we were to spend the night—The Yankees got there just as we did—They told Mr Going that he must furnish corn for their regiment—about 500—
            The Colonel made his HdQuarters in Mr G’s. house—Travelled about twenty six miles today (26)
            May 24th Left Mr Going’s about 6 A.M. ahead of the yankees—Travelled as fast as we could on our horses, which were nearly broken down—Hughes stopped at Dr. Anderson’s
 
 
                                                                                                                                    175
 
to see him & let him know that the yankees were coming—Stopped also at his uncle Hood’s for the same purpose.
            Passed through Bridgeville, not stopping only for a moment for Hughes to tell Shipman the Yankees were coming.
Reached Hughes’ home about 101/2 oclock A.M. Found all of the family quite well—
We had not been at Mr Hughes’ more than an hour when we were told the Yankees were at Bridgeville—Hughes & his father went to the field to look after Mr. H’s. stock—The Yanks expressed a determination to have Hughes’ mare; but he succeeded in keeping her out of their way—They got one of Mr. Hughes’ mules; but he was fortunate enough to get it back. Cross stayed at the house & held himself in reserve—showing himself willing to give his assistance at any point—He went with Mr Hughes to see the Yankee officials to get back the stolen mule, and acted his part faithfully.
            Travelled fourteen miles today (14)—
            Travelled in eighteen days & a half about 575 miles, averaging over thirty miles a day—
 
            On the 25th day of October following at 71/2 O’clock P.M. R. L. Hughes and Miss Ellen E. Somerville were married by Rev. Jas. Somerville—
 
 
176
 
            It was the Sabbath! A rainy day—when he was alone in his quiet chamber, with no one to disturb his soliloquy, save the soft and gentle breathings of his dear wife who lay sleeping near him—To see that angelic creature—the emblem of innocence—To gaze upon that sweet form as it lay sweetly dreaming occasioned a volume of thoughts to emanate from his solitary soul—Do I say solitary! Not so—The companion of his soul (thoughts of his wife) is of more interest than the merriest throng—and he was not lonesome—
            Still it rained—and still she slept—“Sweet be thy dreams,” dear woman!—May your life be a constant dream of happiness—May no cares invade your threshold—May your path be smooth, & perfumed with the rich odors of love & religion—May trouble ever be a stranger to you—& pleasure be your constant companion—
            Still it rained—but the wife was awakened—
            He thought too loud, and aroused his lady—
            What transports of joy was there—Clasped in his arms. He received more bliss than was intended for mortal man to enjoy. She loved him—He loved her—May they continue to love & be happy—May Heaven please to smile in mercy upon them, & bless them with long life, prosperity, happiness & lastly, but of most importance, bless them with faith—& finally, after the walk of this life has ended, may they be crowned among the chosen few—with the righteous in Glory—where praises are unceasing to the Most High, who errs not—who is All-wise—Onmipotent, Omnipresent, & full of glory—
 
 
Boyd’s short clothes                                                   Rufus hose                              347
Rufus drawers                                     Eleanor’s         Lena    “
Lena’s flannels                                                           Linings
Eleanors shirts                                                            emb. & lace for [?]
My drawers                                                                 shoes for Lena
Little girls wool dresses                                              my drawers
“          “    cotton    “                                                  cotton Flannel
Rufus pants & coat                                                     Boyd hose.
My wrapper
gowns for Eleanor
 
 
 
 
            Pickles
Expenditure for first lot                                  $ .75
Sold to Mrs.    Morrow           1 qt.                    .50
            “          Haley              1 pt.                    .25
            “          Robinson         1  “                     .25
            “          Jeffreys           3 qts                1.55
            “          Echols             1 pt                     .25
            “          Wamock                                 2.00
            “          Didlake
            “          Webb              1 pt                     .25
            “          Haley              “                         .25
 
 
                                                                         3.25
                                                                           .50
                                                                         2.75
 
 
Orders from Mrs Brown                                    .50
            “          Mrs Miller                                 .50
            “          Webb.                                        .25
            “          Levy                                           .25
            “          Jeffrey                                     1.00
 
                                                            2.25
                                                               50
                                                            2.75
 
 
348
 
Camp Hardee, Near Columbus Miss—
                                                                                                                        August 4th ’62
Summary of the Officers & companies of the
42nd Reg’t. Ala Vols
Field & Staff
 
Jno. W. Portis—Colonel
Thos C. Lanier—Lt. Colonel
W. C. Fergus—Major
 
R. McCord—Surgeon
W. D. Boykin—Asst. Surgeon
 
Capt. Higgason—Qr. Master
Ben Craig—                “          Serg’t.
 
Capt. McNeil—Commissary
Wm Jones—                “          Clerk.
 
T. J. Portis—Adjutant
 
Thos Gaillyard—Serg’t. Major
Stockdale—Ordnance Serg’t.
J. A. Billups—Regemetal Post Master.
 
                                    Captain           1st Lieutenant  2nd Lieut          2nd B’v’t. Lieut
Company        A         Foster              Gaillyard         Marshall            Jennings
                        B         Wells               Williams         Upchurch            Jones
                        C         McNeil            Grace              Preston            McWilliams
                        D         Mitchell          Clauton J.        McGowen            Clauton M. P.
                        E          Brady              Rosseau           Kierce             Davis
                        F          Perkins            Labazan          Askew             Munson
                        G         Stockdale        Huey               Richey             Bell
                        H         Riley               Gray                McCord            Riley W. W.
                        I           Briggs             Haley              Reeder             Ragg.
                        K         Condrey          Rivers              Portis               Condrey
 
 
                                                                                                                                    349
 
Roll of the “Alabama Resolutes”—
Company D of the 42nd Reg’t. Ala Vols
 
1  Capt. T. C. Mitchell                                                Gilbert, S. E.
2  1st Lt. Jerome Clauton                                            Gay R. J.  ii
3  2nd “ A. W. McGowen                                             Gay N. +
4  2nd B’v’t “ M. P. Clauton                                        Gann G. W.
1  Serg’t. J.A. Gibson                                                 Going J. A
2  “      J. B. G. Hughes                                               Guyton, J. J.
3  “      R. O. Billups
4  “      E. G. Stanton                                                  Hughes R. L.
5  “      Robt Booron                                                    Hughes C. R.
1  Corp. J. H. Manley x by Sub.                                 Hughes N. H.  ii
2  “      S. S. Boughton                                                Homer J. W.
3  “      L. H. Edney
4  “      J. M. Guyton                                                   Jordan Robt.
Private Adams—Co. Commissary
“          Abbott +                                                          Logan J. R.
“                                                                                  Logan A. J. +
“          Billups J. A. Reg. P.M                                    Logan Andrew [pointing hand]
“          Billups J. E.
“          Barham C. H.  ii                                              McGowen J. S.
“          Barham Rob’t. +                                             Mobley Thos
“          Bridges +                                                        Mobley E. C.
“          Brown Wm                                                      Mobley E. T.
“          Beggs Robt  ii                                                 Massey Thos
“          Brownlee J. M. +                                            Mitchell W. N.
“          Campbell Thos.                                               Mooring F. x by Sub.
“          Campbell J. S. +                                             McKinstry O. L.
“          Crutchfield Robt.  ii                                        McKinstry J. A.
“          Cummings                                                      Maddan C. [pointing hand]
“          Cooper
“          Elliott                                                              Nuckols R. R.
 
“          Franks Chas  ii                                                Osberne D. E.
“          Franks W. H.
                                                                                    Parker J. G.
 
 
350
 
Continuation of the Roll of the “Ala Resolutes”
Private Peteet J. T.  o                                                  Men discharged
“                                                                                  Jno. Somerville
“          Reid J. R. +                                                     Jas Martin
“          Reid Thos +                                                     S. R. Dunlap
“          Rogers O. M.  o                                              T. A. Rose
“          Richardson J. R.                                              Jas Ivy
“          Robbins W. B.
“          Ross. R. N.
 
“          Sprot Jas                                                         ________________
“          Seymore A. [pointing hand]                           +          Died
                                                                                    [pointing hand] Substituted
“          Vaughn J. S.                                                    o            Transferred
                                                                                    =          Resigned
“          Wright J. E.                                                     x            Discharged
“          Wright A. J.  ii [pointing hand]                      ii          Killed or died from wound
“          Weston R. B.
“          Williams J. B.                                                             Remarks
“          Wilson J. A.                                                    S. S. Stanton was our 2nd
“          Wilson J. W. [pointing hand]                         Serg’t, but was substituted by
“          Wilson Hiram                                                 Andw Logan.
“          Webb Henry
“          White J. W.  ii
“          White Ruf. H.
            The following names
            joined us after the
            1st Aug. 1862
“          Cox J. G.
“          Eddins I.
            Huff B. G.
            Huff J. P.
            McGahey
            White Van
            Jones Lewis
            Bolton Thos
            Coleman
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mr. E. E. Hughes
 
 
 
Acct with Aunt Lilla
March 3           paid me                                               $4.00
“          “          for washing                                           1.75
“          11        “          “                                                1.75
“          18        “          “                                                1.75
“          25        “          “                                                1.75
 
 
                                                W. S. Hughes
                                    Water Valley Miss March 24th 1865
 
            Ruf. L. Hughes
 
            Ruf. L. Hughes
                                    Camp
                                                Camp Hardee
 
            Ruf L. Hughes
 
[sideways]
 
Ruf. L. Hughes
            Alabama Resolutes
            Camp Hardee
            Columbus Miss           42nd Ala Reg
            Aug. 8th 1862                          Vol.
 
 
Indellible
 
Ruf. L. Hughes
                                    Fort Morgan
                                                Feb’y 5th 1 O’clock P.M.
                                                                        1862
 
                        Ellen E. Hughes          March 6th 1865
 
                                                            Ruf L Hughes
                                                                        Camp Hardee
                                                            Near Columbus
                                                                        Miss.
 
[upside down]
Sanborn & Rose Mfg. Co.
            479 Broadway & 52 Mercer St
                        New York
 
[sideways]
We only write
to answer
Csn lena [?]
would want to [?]
with her as we [?]
be afraid to stay here
that was before I knew
she was pregnant. I
also wrote that [?]
there was

 

5138
DATABASE CONTENT
(5138)DL0630.00257Diaries

Tags: Alexander Stephens, Animals, Artillery, Benjamin F. Butler, Blockade, Braxton Bragg, Confederate Government, Confederate Nationalism, Conscription/Conscripts, Courts Martial, Death (Military), Desertion/Deserters, Drilling, Elections, Fighting, Food, Furloughs, Gender Relations, Hospitals, Hygiene, Illnesses, Injuries, Jefferson Davis, Literary Quotes, Love, Mail, Marching, Money, Nature, Payment, Photographs, Reading, Recreation, Rumors, Ships/Boats, Slavery, Telegraph, Ulysses S. Grant, Weather, Work, "Yankees" (Confederate opinions of)

People - Records: 1

  • (967) [writer] ~ Hughes, Rufus L.

Places - Records: 1

  • (671) [origination] ~ Fort Morgan, Baldwin County, Alabama

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SOURCES

Rufus L. Hughes Diary, DL0630.002, Nau Collection