Leesburg, Friday night November 15th, 1861 - It has been about a week since I got this little book to take the place of my last, which I finished about then, but I have not felt in the humor for writing until tonight. I spent Tuesday and night at Aunt Hettie's and came in Wed. morning, went to lecture in the afternoon and spent the evening at Miss Nannie's, to help fix Llall and Corrie to go to the wedding, that night, for a wedding we have had, in this quiet place and quite an excitement it has created, Miss Hettie Gray and Mr. Hendricks, it was one of those affairs which seem to be gotten up in a desperate hurry, he came here as an independent in Capt. Ball's Cavalry, at the same time the Mississippians did, and met here for the first time, and in three months they are married. Lizzie went to the ceremony, we were invited, but did not go. Yesterday at Aunt Hettie's we had quite a funny time as it was raining, it has also been raining off and on, all day today. We, however, managed to get to church as it was the day appointed by the President as one of fasting, humiliation and prayer. Govern. Brown (of Mississippi) came in the evening and set for a little while and talked very pleasantly, and then got up and bid us all a most affectionate farewell, begged us to remember him to father, and then went out, as we supposed, to camp, but he met mother at the front door and said he was going to Mississippi tomorrow, and had just bid us all goodbye. I am very sorry we did not know it at the time - as I like him very much, but I never expect to see him again. It has blown up very cold today and one scarcely feels comfortable away from the fire.

A new Regiment, the 21st Mississippi arrived here the other day. It is a very full and fine Regiment they say. The Richmond Dispatch today gives very sad accounts of the doings all around our borders. The Federals landed at Mathais Point the other day and committed a great many ravages, burning the two Misses Grymes houses and several others and running off slaves in great numbers. Our cousin, Dr. Curry, in Lancaster, had 30 negroes and their property stolen. Then the news from South Carolina, where the "Armada" is attacking is anything but cheering. One of the 14 privateers taken last spring has been condemned in Philadelphia as a pirate to be hung. In accordance with this warning, Jeff Davis has order that lots should be drawn among the prisoners of highest rank, one for each of our privateers, and the first lot fell on Col. Corcoran of New York, and whatever befalls Smith, who is now condemned, will be retaliated on him. Among those drawn by lot is our Old Point friend Major Vogdes, who was taken at Fort Pickens. It is dreadful, but necessary, this retaliation. Now I am very sleepy and must stop.

Sunday Morning, November 17th. This is a bright beautiful, but very cold and windy day, as was yesterday, which we spent in our usual quiet way, sewing and reading in the morning and walking in the evening. But there were some variations in our usual routine, first and foremost the arrival of three of four letters from home. I had one from Tom and a note from father, sister had one from George and a long letter from Mr. Richards, who was in Winchester when he wrote. They had the first of the Confederate stamps on them that I have seen. After dinner we went to call on the bride from thence, we went to see the girls and Frank Anderson joined us and walked part of the way. While we were at Mr. Harrison's, Miss Randolph and Miss E. Lee came in, and Miss Randolph sang several songs very sweetly.

Last night I had a dream which makes me sad even now to think of it - it was such a disappointment to wake and find it all a dream. I thought we were watching what we believed and yet dreaded to believe was the dead body of the dear, dear Colonel Burt when all of a sudden he started up, and dearest father arrived in time to attend him and told us he thought he would get well. I shall never forget the thrill of joy I felt at such a thought, or the pang of disappointment when it all proved to be a dream, and I waked to the bitter reality. But it is church time.

Monday night, November 18th, 1861. We got just in time for church yesterday morning, Mr. Crosby, the clergyman who performed the ceremony at the wedding preached, from the text, "how shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation." Mr. Kean walked home with me and stayed until quite late. We went to Sunday School but the services had hardly commenced when Mr. Williams came in and requested they might close, as the sexton's funeral was to take place, so I came home, and after Mr. Kean left, we walked out and back again. The evening we spent quietly. Today has been bright and cold, like many of its predecessors. Lizzie had made an engagement with Mr. Kean to ride out to the Miss Lucketts' this morning but he did not keep his appointment. After dinner, sister and I walked back to Aunt Hettie's and while we were there Aunt Mary came in and brought us a letter Mr. Bentley had just handed her. Mr. Grayson brought it and sent it to us from Richmond ... (Page Torn) ... he says the boys have contracted. Oh! my heart is wrung with apprehension, but oh! my Father grant that we may throw this heavy train upon Thee! Thou knowest our longing that they might prove true and faithful servants of thing, and oh! keep them pure and free from the contaminating influences of the world. My heart feels completely broken and bowed. I wrote to Tom today, but before we got father's ... (Page Torn) ... of the latter place, of the Jesuitical influence.

Llall and Corrie were here for a little while this morning. Aunt Mary saw Dr. Holloway this evening, he told her Col. T.M. Griffen (18 Mississippi) had been elected today and that the Regiment expected to remain where they are for the winter, they are busy removing the sick to a hospital, in the immediate vicinity of the camp. Nothing has been heard of the Adjutant or any of the escort, though their furlough has been out for a week. "Now I lay me down to sleep, May angels guard my head, and this the hours of darkness keep, Their watch around by bed."

Wednesday morning, November 20th. Yesterday while we were sitting quietly in the dining room, three gentlemen were asked in. They were Messrs. Tebbs, Gordon and Holcombe of the Albemarle Cavalry. We like them very much and hope they will come again soon. While they were here Mr. Cassell walked in, and then Mr. Kean, and the both stayed to dinner and while we were at dinner, Capt. Singleton came in to bid us goodbye, he was going home this morning. Today is Mr. Cassell's birthday and we had more than half persuaded him to stay over and spend it with us, when the Capt. came, and he decided he would have to go back.

Lizzie and Mr. Kean took their ride after dinner. They did not find the Misses Luckett at home, so took a ride, which Lizzie says was very pleasant. They went to the Signal Mountain and saw the federal encampment across the river. Sister, Sally, Ellen Adie, and I started out for a walk. Sister met Aunt Fanny and I met Corrie, and we joined, and all met Sally and spent the night. Sally had a nice long letter from Pauline Buer, yesterday morning, and a note from Aunt Nealie, enclosing a letter from Uncle Charlie, to Aunt Nannie, and some letters of the Joneses to Cousin Catesby, which he had lent Uncle C. to send us. among them is a note from cousin Alex Page, in which he says that Cousin Richard, and Lucian, are with Commodore Tatnall's fleet off South Carolina. The Richmond Dispatch had bad news from us yesterday. It told of the capture of our two ministers, Mason and Slidell, by a federal ship of war, and their confinement in Fortress Monroe. Hope good for us from it, as they were taken on a British ship, and it is supposed England will resent the insult to her flag. I hope it may be so. Mr. Cassell showed us yesterday a letter taken from the battle ground, from one of the federal soldiers to his wife, in which he speaks of the cruelties practiced on the soldiers. He says he has seen "men gagged and tied up to a tree for the most trivial offense". Poor fellow I reckon he little knew how soon. Mr. Cassell said he was supposed to be among the killed. I wrote Aunt Nealie a long letter last night. But there is the breakfast bell.

Thursday morning, November 21st. Lizzie and I spent the day, yesterday, very quietly in our room, sewing. After dinner we went to church and after lecture Miss Nannie and I and sister and Lizzie walked back to Aunt Hettie's. We then spent the evening quietly as usual.

We got a long letter from father yesterday dated October 17th. Uncles Henry and Matt (Harrison) also got one apiece and father sent a copy of Grandpa's will. Aunt Fanny received a letter from Aunt Vi of the same date. I have not seen it yet. This is a lovely day, and I cannot realize that one month ago, we were in the midst of such terrible excitement, but when I think of the dear friend whom I have lost I realize it all overpoweringly. Oh! What a dreadful day that was! In looking over my diary of that time, the account I have given is so unsatisfactory that I will try and write a better. I was under the influence of such excitement, and distress that everything, all else, was swallowed up in the one thought of the loved one who was suffering so. Oh! Would that I had then known how it was to end. There are so many little things I should have like to do for him. But I will put off all further accounts until tonight. It is such a lovely day that I must go out and breathe some fresh air.

Thursday night, November 21st. I intended this morning to write a satisfactory account of the doings of the eventful 21st of October (Battle of Ball's Bluff) and I am now going to try to do so. In the first place we were startled early in the morning by a sharp and brisk cannoning, but it had become so common for us to hear firing, that we did not think of it as much, as we should otherwise have done, but about 9 o'clock there was a great cry that the Yankees were within a mile of town, and our cavalry went dashing by here, in the direction of Big Spring, and from the upstairs windows we could see them charging over the fields. Just then Walter came in and said he had been to the farm to catch his horse, and was just going into the field when one of the negroes told him the Yankees were there, and he saw about twenty-five, running into the woods. That was after the skirmish between Capt. Duff's company and the federals. One could distinctly see some moving about, but did not dream there were more than two or three left. We saw several wounded prisoners taken by, some wounded frightfully, one poor man with the blood streaming from his face, from a terrible wound in the head, some with arms and legs wounded and another with his jaw bone crushed. Oh, it was terrible and we were in a state of great suspense and excitement, but had no idea of what a battle was being fought so near us. Between two and three o'clock the musketry was perfectly terrific and we could plainly see the smoke and the dead and wounded of our men and the enemy rapidly increased. It was very mournful to see the ambulances with the yellow flags, coming and going all the time. About four o'clock musketry became nearer and sharper, but we could hear nothing, we did not even know what Regiments were engaged. Lizzie, Sally and I started down the street, to do a little shopping, and the first news we heard was that the 8th Virginia (Co. Eppa Hunton) was cut to pieces, and there was danger of our being defeated. That, we did not believe, but it was enough to make one's heart bleed to see the poor, poor wounded brought in, and we hurried back as fast as possible. On our way, we met Mr. Adie, and he told us Dr. Martin was supposed to be mortally wounded, and Dr. Brock had just had his arm amputated. It was the first we had heard of the 18th (Mississippi) being in the fight. We came home full of the wildest apprehensions and anxieties and the first news that greeted us was that Col. Burt was killed, but I feel as if it could not be and God only knows the agony I endured until Dr. Lane came to bearing us a message from him saying he was seriously but he hoped not mortally wounded, and would be here in a few moments. He was wounded in the right hip. Most anxiously and carefully did we prepare his room for him, and faced the gravel walk, gazing fearfully at every wounded person that was carried by, until just after dark they came and we heard the darling Colonel's voice saying "how do", in his old familiar way, and speaking to each one of us and calling us by name. They rested him while in the passage, and as I stepped forward to take his sword and belt from the Doctor, can I ever forget the gentle, kind way in which he called my name and held out his hand. They then took him upstairs, but a mark of his suffering remained behind in the blood which stained the floor. As soon as he was fixed in bed, he asked for us, and I sat by him and gave him his coffee, and stayed with him until after ten, when the Adjutant and Sargeant came to be with him. He asked, so kindly, after father and "the boys" and talked so like himself. He took one of my hands in his and pressed the other to his head, and once when I left his side to let Mr. Stuart get there, he said, "Sargeant, you have Miss Jenny's place, you men are so different from the ladies, there's nothing like the ladies". Oh, every word and look is doubly engraved on my heart and mind, and I can never forget them, but it is so late that I must stop now.

Friday night, November 22nd. I have not much time to write tonight as candle is very low, but I will commence where I left off last night. After the Adjutant and Sargeant Major Stuart came we went down stairs and about sixteen or more soldiers came in for their suppers, and we were up until half past twelve waiting on them. Among the last to come was Capt. Upshur of the 17th (Mississippi). He had been here just ten days before with Cols. Burt (18th Mississippi) W. S. Featherstone (17th Mississippi) and T.M. Griffin, and Capt. Goodman. He spoke so lovingly and kindly of the dear Col. and when he heard he was here, begged to be allowed to see him, and went up for a little while. There was one thing for which I was very sorry, which was, that they told the Col. of the death of one or two of his old company, the Burt Rifles, (Company K, 18th Mississippi Infantry) one of them, in particular, Gen Pettus' son. It seemed to distress him so, and to be on his mind, to the very last. He begged them to try and get a metallic coffin to put him in and he would take him home with him, as soon as he was able to move. I think he seemed to realize from the first that his wound was mortal, for one of the first things he said was "It will be long, before you will see me on dress parade again, if ever". Tuesday his mind first began to wander and he was conscious of it. We attributed it to the effect of the morphine he had taken the night before, when he took in he said, "My wife always begs me not to take so much morphine". He asked me to read the newspaper to him, but he soon dropped to sleep. A great many of the Reg. came to see him. At first, I left the room when they came in, but he said "don't leave me, tho' I am so stupid". One thing that made me feel very sad, was to see how one by one things he had liked seemed to become distasteful to him. Tuesday morning Mr. Caskey came to see him, and smoked in his room. When I came back, I asked him if he had been smoking, and he said "Yes, but I like chewing better", and asked Sally to hand him his tobacco, but his relish for it was gone. He got us to bring up his hat, and show him his coat sleeve where the ball had passed through and then asked me to look at the third finger of the left hand to see if it was wounded. It was grazed by a ball, which he said had out the bridle of his horse. He talked a good deal all morning, and told us all about the battle, and asked about every one of his friends. After dinner, he became very drowsy, and it was then the Doctor gave up hope for him. Dr. Gilmer said typhoid symptoms had set in. It poured down raining all that day. As we sat in his room about twilight, I became very uneasy at his irregular and uneasy breathing and stepped to his side, and placed my hand on his head, and he clenched hold of it with his hand which was wringing wet, as I supposed with blood. It alarmed me very much. Just then the Sargeant came in with his wounded arm, and a good many gentlemen were here in the evening. Capt. Jiggetts, the Adjutant and Sgt. Major Stuart stayed with him all night -- I spent this morning as usual sewing. Lizzie and I had a long talk about the dear Colonel and the horrors of sudden death, etc. While we were in the parlor Mr. Kean came in for a few minutes. After dinner we went to call on Mrs. Williams and Ellen Adie. Ellen went out walked with us. Dr. Martin is rapidly recovering. We saw his brother. It is raining very hard now. Uncle Henry is going to Middleburg in the morning.

Wednesday night, December 4th. Events have come crowding upon us, lately, that I have not been able to write them and scarcely know now where to begin. Mother and sister left this morning for home, but Sallie and I are still here. About ten days ago, mother received a pass from the President (Lincoln) to return home, and we wrote to father immediately, by Norfolk, but not getting an answer, sister wrote a note to father through Generals (Nathan G.) "Shank" Evans (C.S.A.) and C. P. Stone (U.S.A.), asking if we should go home, and late yesterday evening a note came from Gen. Stone saying a carriage and boat would be at Edward's Ferry today at two o'clock, and enclosing a telegraph from father to Gen. Stone asking him to have it attended to. On consideration, we (Sallie and I) concluded to stay until we could hear more particularly from home.

Friday week Mr. Cassell brought Capt. Dudley of the 21st (Mississippi) to see us, he was the first of that Regiment we met, and we are and were delighted with him. Sunday morning he walked to church with Sallie. That evening after Sunday School, Sallie and I walked to Hettie's and on the way Frank Anderson joined us, and when we were nearly there, Mr. Lemly came up and Frank introduced him, and we all spent the evening and had a delightful time. We were very much pleased with Mr. Lemly.

Frank and I had quite a laugh about two days before, as I was walking in from Aunt Hettie's, as I passed by the 18th (Mississippi) Hospital, a man came running out, calling "Madam, Madam". I asked him what he wanted and he said he wanted me to post two letters from him, one to be paid for, and other not. I agreed to do it, and there was two cents change, and Sunday night I asked Dr. Anderson who he was and he said from the description, he must be Caffy. I told him to inquire, so Monday evening I met him (Frank) and he said "Oh, Miss Jenny, I asked Caffy if he was a Frenchman and he said 'no, why"? and I said Oh, I heard of your calling a friend of mine Madam, and he said well the reason was, that there was no word in the English language expressive of what he wished to say, Miss was too cold and formal, and "Young Lady" worse still", and he then said he had seen me at Uncle Matt's picking flowers, with a gipsy hat on pushed back with an air negligee and he thought me very distinguish looking. We amused ourselves very much at the idea and I never see Dr. Anderson, that he doesn't beg me to put on "that gipsy hat". We were saying tonight we had been great belles the past week. Capt. Sears was here Wednesday evening, in the evening after Lecture Hall, Mr. Ballard and I took a walk, and Sophie Jackson took tea and her mother and self spent the evening, then next morning Dr. Burt came in, he had been here since Friday week, but had been sick. Friday evening we rode to the 21st (Mississippi), Lizzie and I on horseback and sister and Sally in the buggy. We had a very pleasant time. Mr. Kean was here just before we started and rode part of the way with us. After tea Capts. Dudley and Hebron came and spent the evening and told we were to have a serenade the first clear night. Saturday Capt. Sears rode over, and after dinner the Misses Hoffman came to stay all night. It was a lively night and about 7 we heard the band and commenced to prepare for the serenade, just then Gen. Stone's note came, and cast quite a damper over the fun. We, however, fixed up some very pretty little things. I tied a card to a lavender bottle and wrote on it, "We tender our cordial thanks for the sweet music". Lizzie and Sallie had each little Confederate flags, and very pretty bouquets with cards and attached, and sister had a rosette of the secession colors, attached to a bouquet with her card. I then found some kisses and we arranged them all in a basket and illuminated it with a wax candle and let it down and pelted them with kisses. They then came in and to our surprise among their number was Mr. Cassell. We had a good deal of fun, the band played until very late and then Capt. Dudley and Mr. Porter played and sang on the piano, and there was a grand writing of autographs, and so on. Capt. Partridge, of Vicksburg, was one of the gentlemen, and Lieut. Montgomery, Mr. Porter, Dr. Anderson and Mr. Cassell. I did not get to bed until one o'clock. This morning first thing we had a message from Capt. Dudley, and soon after breakfast Dr. Anderson came, and about eleven Capt. Dudley and Mr. Sneed. They stayed and saw them off, and Capt. Dudley very kindly accompanied them to the ferry, he is so pleasant, so full of fun and life. Mr. Kean and Mr. Cassell walked home with Liz from church, the latter and Mr. Sneed stayed to dinner. After Sunday School as we were walking along, we saw Capt. Dudley on horseback, and he called out and said they got off safely and a very gentlemanly officer, Capt. Stuart, had come in for them. But it is late I have not time for more tonight.

Monday night, December 9th, 1861. This has been a lovely day, and this morning, there was a grand military parade. General (Nathan G.) Evans (7th Brigade) presented the battle flags to the four regiments (8th Virginia, 13th Mississippi, 17th Mississippi, 18th Mississippi), and then took leave, and left for Centerville. We started about ten o'clock, Sally, Daisy and I in the buggy, and Lizzie, Uncle H. and Henry on horseback. The Misses Hoffman, Walter, Ria, Alice, Bush and Ned on foot. We got as far as the court house and stopped to speak to Uncle Matt, who returned from Richmond the evening before. As we passed by Hough's, Sally ran right into one of the horses of the General's stall, which were waiting to accompany him, and then came near running over a little dog. We were nearly out of town when Mr. Gordon joined us and shortly after Dr. Clagget, so we had quite a cavalcade. The regiments were just falling into line when we arrived, and there was a great concourse of people. It was a most beautiful scene, but there came near being some disaster, as Gen. Evans and aids were going to ride up in grand style, with the four flags flying, the General's horse became frightened, and there ensured quite an exciting horse race. When that was over, the horses became frightened at the flags, and Mr. Wildman was thrown, and one or two others ran away. At last all was done successfully, the troops were drawn up in a square, and Gen. Evans presented the flags to each Col. (Hunton, Featherstone, Barksdale and Griffin) and they made replies and then presented them to their color companies. The three General's and staffs then reviewed the brigade, and Gen. Evans rode off, and the regiments marched round and round the field. Mr. Kean came up and stayed with us all the time. Frank Anderson came up, also. Cols. Griffin and Featherstone talked with us some time and Uncle Henry brought General Griffith and introduced him to us. I was very much pleased with him. We saw Capt. Dudley at the head of his company, it was a glorious sight. We got back about one o'clock, having enjoyed it very much, but it made me feel sad, I scarce know why. After dinner Llall came round for us to walk and we took quite a long walk. Just before tea, Mr. and Mrs. Williams came in, and stayed until about nine o'clock. It is now very near ten, so I must stop for tonight. We are going out to spend a day or two with Misses Hoffman soon. They have kindly pressed us to come. I wish we could hear from home.

Tuesday night, December 10th. We got up this morning, and found it had been raining and thought we should have a bad day, but it has been very bright and warm, almost too warm. I got through my reading early, and then darned my stockings and Sallie's dress and taught Ned until 12 o'clock. Lizzie then commenced to read Irving's "Life of Washington", out loud, while Sally and I sewed. We had just come upstairs after dinner to dress when Messrs. Kean and Boston were announced. We hurried down and they stayed until quite late. Ellen Adie came in while they were here, after they left, we all walked out, Sally and I paid a little visit to Uncle Matt who left early the next morning for Richmond. We intended going in to see Sophie Jackson this evening, but just after tea, Mr. (John) Janney came in and stayed until after nine. He is very gloomy about the state of the country. Uncle Henry told us this evening, he was going to give an entertainment to the military and to write a list of any eight or ten gentlemen we wanted invited. I have no doubt I shall enjoy it, but it makes me sad to think of it, and brings so forcibly to mind the last entertainment last August when dear darling Col. Burt was here, and all looked bright and hopeful, but since that dreadful bottle, I cannot look with the same pleasure on a party especially soldiers. We read this evening a letter from Gov. Brown, (Mississippi) in the Richmond Enquirer, describing the battle. I was very much disappointed in it, and did not like his way of speaking of Col. Burt, it was coarse, and the whole letter was very unsatisfactory and not such as I should have expected from Gov. Brown.

Wednesday night, January 1st, 1862. The first evening of another year! How little I dreamed one year ago, how frightened with startling and fearful events, the New Year would be! How little we can foresee the future and how thankful we should be to an All Wise God that such is the case. New Year '61 has closed, its opening was dark and gloomy to me, but oh! how completely private griefs have been swallowed up, the utter terror and amazement, at the complete destruction of our once glorious Union, and in sympathy for the hundreds - I might almost say thousands - of hearts and homes, made desolate by devastating war. Oh God! When will these things cease, and peace once more reign supreme throughout our unhappy country. Oh, Father grant that this terrible scourge may make us a wiser and better people, and in particular, I would implore Thy blessing upon me, in this New Year, prosper me in all my undertakings and make me Thy humble servant, for Jesus' sake ---

It has been some two weeks since I wrote in here. Since then, many things have happened. Friday the thirteenth, some fifty gentlemen were here to supper; it was given to the two generals, but only Gen. (Daniel Harvey) Hill came. Among those present were Cols. Griffin, Kearney, Barksdale, Featherstone, Capts. Sears, Partridge, Dudley, Hebron, Luse, Majors Bataford, and Henry, Lieuts. West and Cassell, Major Harrison, Mr. and Mrs. Williams, Mr. Rodgers, Messrs. Kean, Martin and Wyeth, and Capt. Palmer of the (Richmond) Howitzers, Capt. Blackford, Lieut. Kerr, Messrs. Boston, Hilcombe of the cavalry and Messrs. Sneed and Singleton, Maj. Watts, and so many others that I can't remember one half of them. Oh! Fizer and Nicholson and Mr. Jiggetts.

The next day, we saw a balloon the Federals sent up to spy out the land. The Tuesday of the next week we were invited to a tableaux party at Mrs. Williamson's but of course did not go. Col. Griffin and Adjutant Nicholson came in to see us, the Col. came to say goodbye. He went home this Friday following on a thirty day leave of absence. Saturday the 21st Messrs Boston, Holcombe and Sneed were here in the morning and Capt. Goodman and Adjutant Fizer were here the evening before. Sunday Mr. Cassell dined here. Monday it was snowing, raining and sleeting all day, but we spent the day, dressing the church. I was there introduced to Mr. Shamblin. Tuesday I didn't go, but Sallie and Lizzie did. I spent the day making cake for our reception on Christmas day. Late in the afternoon Hall and I started for a walk, and Capt. Blackford insisted upon going with us. We all spent the evening - or rather took tea, at Mr. Burr Harrison's, and then went to finish dressing the church. It looked very pretty indeed. Mr. Boston came home with me, Mr. Baxter with Sallie and Mr. Sneed with Lizzie. The next day, Christmas, was a beautiful, bright day. Ria gave me a paper of pins and Alice, a box of hairpins which were my only presents. Sallie gave me a pair of side combs. After church, we set to work preparing for our company. I made the eggnog, and was so late in getting the material together that the room was full by the time I came downstairs. We had a very pleasant time. Most of the gentlemen were young gentlemen, only one or two married ones having come. Thursday morning, Walter drove us out in the spring wagon drawn by two mules, to the Miss Hoffman's to spend a few days. I have actually forgotten to notice a very sweet serenade we had Tuesday night. Capt. Partridge brought them here. Three of the Vicksburg Southerners spent the day (Tuesday at Miss Hoffman's). Messrs. Clark, Shiles, and Matthews, and Mr. and Mrs. Cornelius and family and Mrs. Mason, were there also. After dinner, we saw two or three colored children baptized in Mrs. Hoffman's room. That evening while we were at tea, some gentlemen were announced and they turned out to be Messrs. Clark, Matthews, Hobart, Colier, Walcott and Autie. The three latter had brought their musical instruments, a guitar and two violins, and sang and played for us until quite late. They were three of the serenaders. Mr. Clark gave me a Mississippi button. Friday three of the 17th (Mississippi) were there for a little while and Tom King spent the evening. Saturday, Dr. Clark of the Cavalry, spent the day and rode home on horseback with Lizzie. Bush drove Sallie and I in the buggy. Capt. Dudley and Mr. Clark spent the evening here. Sunday Adjutant Pizer escorted Sally home and stayed to dinner, and Mr. Kean came with me. Monday evening, Sallie took a ride on horseback, with Mr. Boston, and in the evening we had quite a levee, first Messrs. Boston, Luckett, and Baxter, and then Major Ratschford and Lieut. West, then Dr. Clark, and last and least Lewis Adie. Yesterday Llall and I started on a shopping expedition and Maj. Hawkins joined us. Liz, Sally and I dined with Llall and afterwards Mr. Kean came in and after he left, we went back to Hattie's. Uncle Matt had a large dinner party, we stayed until quite late. Capts. Sears and Blackford walked in with us. I got a very sweet letter from Mrs. Burt, yesterday, poor thing, what a terrible blow; God have mercy on them! Walter and Henry started this morning for Lexington, we miss them very much. Aunt Mary has been quite sick all day. Mr. Sneed was here for a little while this morning as was also Miss Sophia Hoffman. Major Hawkins told us yesterday that Mr. Stuart had been appointed on Gen. Griffith's staff, as private secretary. He is expected tonight.

Wednesday, February 19th, 1862. It has been a long time since I have written, in here, though not intentionally, but so many strange and untold events have occurred that I am very sorry for it. The day after I wrote in here, January 2nd, we went to see the battlefield (Ball's Bluff). Messrs. Kean and Fizer went with us. Lizzie and Sally went in the buggy, and the gentlemen and I went on horseback. It was bitter cold and we were nearly frozen, but enjoyed it very much - at least as much as we could enjoy a visit to a place noted for such deeds of bloodshed. The gentlemen pointed out the place where the arm of one of the federals was uncovered, but we did not wish to look, as horror already thrilled us as our horses standing upon the grave of fifty of the enemy before we knew where they were. I cannot imagine how we ever won that victory, on such a field; it was due only to the hand of Providence. The marks of the battle were to be seen all around, not a branch or twig in that thick wood, but bore evidence of the terrible encounter, and I could not help a feeling of sincere and heartfelt thanksgiving, that the trees had received the murderous balls, instead of our brave troops. It was so cold that we did not stay very long, or go all over the ground. We could see the federals on the other side very plainly. When we got back, we found we had missed Mr. Stuart, for which we were very sorry. The next evening, I saw him at Mr. (Burr) Harrison's, we took tea there together. It snowed while we were there, and I thought we should have some good sleighing but though there have been many snows, they only seem to have fallen to render the walking as bad as possible. Mr. Stuart declined the position in Gen. Griffith's staff, considering his position of Sargeant Major much preferable. I like him so much, there is something genuine, and so much to be admired about him. The next day (Saturday) we spent the day with the girls. Llall helped Lizzie and Sally to fix Liz' bonnet, and Corrie and I walked out to Aunt Hettie's. Mr. Stuart sent the girls two large cakes, from Mississippi. I hardly know how to tell all that has happened, the pleasure and pain we have experienced, in these two months. About two weeks ago, we were shocked beyond measure, by the sudden death of poor Aunt Rachel. Just two weeks ago she was taken with an attack of apoplexy in the morning and died the next morning February 9th, at 5 o'clock, poor thing, it was terribly sudden.

Mr. Williams preached the funeral sermon, from the text, "Put thy house in order, for thou shalt die, and not live". It was very touching. On the way to the grave, Aunt Fanny told me of the death of Dr. Gunn. He died at "Locust Hill" of typhoid fever. He mistook Mrs. Gray for his mother, and they say his last moments were very affecting. Oh, it seems as tho death was staring us in the face at every move, poor fellow, how little we thought last summer when we used to see him at the hospital, and he was so light hearted and full of fun, that a few short months would be the measure of his life. Another sad, and depressing thing occurred last week. Our army has met with sad reverses, at Roanoke Island and Forts Henry and Donelson. At the former place, after a desperate battle of three days, poor Willie Jackson fell a victim to this cruel war. All last week the family were in a state of gloom and anxiety about his fate, and the Doctor started for Norfolk, to try and hear some news of Willie. The day after he left Mrs. Jackson received letters from Norfolk and a paper saying he had been killed. Still there seemed to be some doubt about it, and on Monday, "The (Richmond) Enquirer" contradicted it, and they seemed so happy but yesterday morning, they received two letters from U.S.N. Officers confirming the sad news. One was from the Surgeon and the other from Lieut. Com. of the "Hetzel". They wrote very kind letters. Dr. Campbell was the surgeon's name and Lieut. Com. Franklin the Officer's. It seems he was wounded in the water while trying to swim to land, after fighting most bravely at his battery, the ball passed through him, he was taken on board the "Hetzel" and received every attention which his condition and tender age demanded. He was conscious until a few moments before his death, lived twelve hours, and the officers say, was very gentle and patient, and met death calmly. He sent some messages to his father and they all speak of his gallantry and bravery ("Worthy of a better cause"). Poor, poor boy, how young to be so sacrificed, he was only 17 years old, and such a pride and darling with them all. He was buried with military honors at Elizabeth City and Lieut. Com. Franklin read the Episcopal burial service and all the crew and officers of the "Hetzel" attended. We were very much astonished last week by Dr. Barnet's making his appearance and asking Aunt Mary to take Mr. Cassell, for a patient once more. It seems quite like old times to have Mr. Cassell and Mr. Sneed here once more. Mr. Cassell has been quite sick, and we abuse the Mississippi practice all the time. I never heard of such doses, in my life. We were telling Dr. Clark the other day of some of the medicines he has taken in one day, viz: 12 dr. quinine in four hours, opium and morphine, and he laughed and said he was surprised they did not give him chloroform, ether and calomel, to put an end to him. By the way, Dr. Clark was here on Monday to bid us goodbye. He expects to raise a company artillery or cavalry for the war. I am sorry he has gone, as we shall miss his pleasant visits very much. Col. Griffin returned two weeks ago, and has been sick ever since at Maj. Orr's. Dr. Barnet said he took out some bone from his jaw the other day, I sent him some flowers last week and he wrote me a nice little note. Mrs. Orr gave a dancing party last Friday week, we were not honored with an invitation, but had instead a most delightful serenade from the 21st (Mississippi) band, in which we are indebted to Mr. Cooke. I had a letter from Aunt Nealie last night enclosing one from Joe to Ida; Walter and Jose are at Gordonsdale now, on thirty days furlough, having reenlisted for two years, and Mr. Powell Harrison is also at home, for the same good reason. They say Walter is looking badly. Almost all the Mississippi troops here have reenlisted, among others Capt. Singleton's old company. They have elected Major Henry, Captain, and Mr. Cassell is 2nd Lieut. Mr. Stuart was here the other day, he said the acting chaplain of the 18th Mississippi Infantry Rev. Mr. Ely, was very anxious to come to see us as he is going to write a history of dear Col. Burt's illness and death, and wanted to hear all about it from us. I am sorry I did not write a fuller account of it in this little book, but I was so much occupied writing to poor Mrs. Burt a full account that I could not find time to write in here also.

It has been raining all day, most vehemently. I am sorry to say that we have been deprived for some time of the pleasure of hearing from home, by an order of the federal Secretary of War, Stanton, putting an end to it. I hope, however, we may be able to renew it. I wrote to Capt. Milligan to ask him if it was practicable and hope to hear tomorrow.

Thursday, Feb. 20th. This has been a right pleasant day, though quite windy, but to that one does not object, when there is a hope of the walking ever getting dry. We had a visit from Col. Griffin this morning, he looks wretchedly, and as entirely different as possible from the strong healthy-looking man we saw last December. He has had a terrible operation performed on his jaw. It must have been very painful. Today was the first time he got out, since his return from Mississippi. After hearing the boys lessons and eating dinner, we started to pay some visits. We called first on Mrs. Col. Radford and there met with quite a pleasant member of one of the cavalry companies, who told us that letters were constantly going from this side to the other. We then went to see Mrs. Capt. Stamps. She is Col. Humphrey's daughter, and has been here for a week or two. We did not find her in. Then we went to see Mrs. Major Hawkins, at Mrs. Edwards. She and Mrs. Sears came down together. Mrs. Sears looked so lovely. The nurse brought little Willie in, he is just as sweet as ever. He stayed here almost all last month while his mother was sick with typhoid pneumonia, and we grew very fond of him indeed. We then went to see the girls and found all out but Miss Nannie. Llall came in while we were there. Mr. Powell Harrison came up yesterday evening from Dumfries on a furlough of thirty days. We went in to see Sophie Jackson, before we came home. The Dr. returned last night. It seems to be a great comfort to them to have him back, he brings very satisfactory accounts of poor Willie's (Jackson) death, says he was treated most kindly and tenderly by the Officers of the "Hetzel", cared for , as though he had been a favorite officer. He sent Aunt Mary a map of the country round there. What makes my blood boil, is to think that southern men were in command of that expedition, Com. Rohan, Capts. Davenport and Goldsborough! To be sure, they behaved in a kind and gentlemanly manner to the prisoners, but nothing can excuse them to me for acting the part of traitors. Sallie and I promised to help Sophie to make up her dress tomorrow.

Friday night, March 7th, 1862. This has been a sad and gloomy day in our calendar, our troops have all left, and we are now, like poor islanders, cut off from communication with north or south. We know not why, when or wherefore, we are thus deserted, but I try to believe it is all for the best, and to remember that an All Wise Providence rules all things. I must begin where I left off, writing last month. The next night, Friday 21st, Mr. Cooke spent here. He stayed until very late and got me to play for him, which I did, very badly. He bought Daisy a bundle of delicious candy. The next day, Saturday, Mr. Cassell came out for the first time, he looked very badly. After dinner, we got to playing chess. I beat him the first game, but have never been so fortunate since. He is a very fine player. Sunday, we had a beautiful sermon from Mr. Williams, on the impropriety and frivolity of worldly amusements at this time. Mr. Kean and Aunt Fanny were here to dinner, that day, and we had a very pleasant time. It recalled last summer, so vividly, to have Mr. Cassell, sitting in his old place, and as full of mischief as ever. Mr. Sneed went to Sunday School with me, and Mr. Kean with the girls. Afterwards, Mr. Sneed went back to camp, considering his patient sufficiently recovered. Monday morning, however, the latter was imprudent enough to walk down the street, in the rain, and Mr. Sneed met him, and brought him back, and then spent the rest of the day. Mr. Kean came in while Lizzie and Mr. Stuart were playing chess and sat quite a long time. After dinner Mr. Cassell and I played several games, all of which he beat me. In the evening Llall and Mr. Powell Harrison walked in and spent the evening. Mr. Harrison is so full of fun and humor. Tuesday we all spent very quietly. Mr. Cassell wrote some cards for the girls and after dinner we all started to call on Mrs. Capt. Blackford, at Mr. Williams', but found she had left about an hour before, in circumstances of great gloom, she having come prepared for quite a long visit, but after a visit of three days left, as it was thought there was a prospect of a fight here soon. We saw the Capt. Friday afternoon, Llall and I, and we were walking with Mr. Stuart, and he looked very bright and happy. While we were at Mrs. Williams' she was busy making cartridge bags, for the cannon. Mr. Williams sewed them up and she finished. Will Porter came in with some she and Mrs. Calaggett had just finished. We then walked to Aunt Hettie's and promised to spend the next day with her. On our return we found a note from Mrs. Col. Radford regretting she had not been able to return our visit. The next morning, Capt. Sears came up to try and get some conveyance for Mrs. Sears so Lizzie was busily occupied finishing Willie's hood. While she was so engaged, Mr. Powell Morrison and Lieut. Heaton came in and paid a long visit, so it was pretty late when we started back for Aunt Hettie's. Mr. Cassell and I went before, and Lizzie and Sally finished the hood, and stopped and bid Mrs. Sears goodbye. They were very much abashed at being ushered into the dining room full of gentlemen. Both Generals, and their staffs. Mrs. Evans made them quite indignant by saying "she had told the Gen. the 'ladies of Leesburg had the fierceness, but not the strength of arm to repel the Yankees'." We spent a very pleasant day with Mr. Powell Harrison and Llall and Corrier were there. After dinner it commenced to rain. The others said they had an awful time coming in. Aunt Hettie bemoaned and groaned over poor Mr. Cassell, nearly all night. We came in the next morning, met Kate Gray and Miss Minnie Gray on the way in. They had just been here. We found them all looking gloomy enough here but they soon brightened up. The next morning, Friday 28th, was the day appointed by President Davis for fasting, humiliation and prayer. Early in the morning a servant for the Reg. came for Mr. Cassell's baggage and to let him know the Regiment expected to move. We had a very fine sermon from Mr. Williams. There were very few soldiers present, owing to the excitement. When we got home from church we found Mr. Cassell had determined to leave after dinner, so after dinner we bid him goodbye, expecting fully to see him brought back sick. Later in the afternoon, Cy came in, bringing a note from Mr. Cooke to Lizzie, asking her to take care of his violin, and c. bag, and Cy also brought several things from the Virginia State 21st Regiment to be taken care of. Saturday, Mr. Sneed came in early and spent the day. He said Mr. Cassell had been sick the night before, but was very bright then. Mr. Cooke came in shortly afterwards, he brought Daisy another bundle of candy, and each of the children a very cunning jumping jack, his mother had sent them, cut and painted herself. They are very curious. He gave us some beautiful little pictures his mother had painted. Lizzy has two, and so have I, and Sally one. We got him to play on the violin and I accompanied him on the piano. He plays very sweetly. We were looking at the Chinese curiosities when Mrs. Capt. Stamps came in. She is such a nice little woman, we were all quite in love with her. She was going to Warrenton on Monday. In the evening Frank Anderson, and Llall, and Mr. Powell Harrison were here to tea, the latter came to bid us goodbye.

Mr. Cooke wrote some very pretty cards for the girls and then wrote in Sallie's Album, as did Mr. Sneed, Llall, and Mr. Powell Harrison. Sunday, Mr. Williams preached a beautiful sermon, on the parable of the marriage supper; it was communion Sunday and very solemn. Mr. Cooke came back to dinner. It was snowing when we came from church so there was no Sunday School. The 18th Mississippi went up that day to Lovettsville to try and draw the Yankees on, but we don't know what was the result. Mr. Cooke stayed until quite late, in the afternoon, when Uncle Matt came in. Monday was a gloomy day. Mr. Sneed was brought in sick threatened with pneumonia. He was quite sick. Tuesday in the evening we returned Miss Smartt's visit, and Miss Mary Powell's and then went to see the girls. Tuesday morning Messrs. Trescott and Lee of the Virginia State 21 Reg. were here. Wednesday was Ash Wednesday.

Monday, March 10, 1862. Such horrors have happened since I last wrote in here that I can hardly write them down but will go on where I left off. Wednesday as I said was Ash Wednesday. We had service and a most beautiful sermon. There were very few soldiers in church. We were spending the evening very quietly when Mr. Kean came in and stayed until eleven o'clock. He looked very handsome, was as full of fun and mischief as possible; the cannon had been ordered up into town for the night, to start at four, the next morning somewhere or other. The next morning Dr. Holloway came in and told Mr. Sneed he must prepare to move the next morning. In the afternoon Mr. Sneed came out of his room and sat in the parlor, to try and gain strength. While we were all sitting there laughing and joking, Mr. Stuart came in, to bid us goodbye. He said he did not like to go without seeing us and he heard a rumor the troops were to leave before long. Just then Mr. Cassell came in, on the same errand. Mr. Stuart looked very handsome and better then he had since he returned from Mississippi. He is so pleasant. They both stayed to tea. It seemed so natural to have Mr. Cassell in his old seat at the table. Oh me, we'll never see our brave troops again. Mr. Stuart showed us two beautiful little trophies from the battlefield. They were two tiny little books he had carried, one had a clasp and on one side was marked "Bible", and on the other side "Leesburg 21st Oct. 1861". The other looked like a book that had been used a great deal, the edges all rubbed away. That was also marked as the other one was for his sister and other for Miss Bettie Wharton, his fiancee. OH! I felt so sad when they got up to go, though I did not, could not, realize they were going away. Mr. Cassell looked very pale. Mr. Sneed gave us all a ring a piece he had carved from wood from the battlefield, mine is marked with his initials I.R.S. Sallie's has a heart, and Lizzie's a little raised place. Frank Anderson came in later in the evening. He said the sick were to leave at five o'clock the next morning. He also came to bid us goodbye. I gave him a little lavender bottle to send his wife from me. I spent the evening finishing hemming a handkerchief Alice has commenced for Mr. Cassell. The next morning we were aroused about seven, by the news that the infantry had all gone at six, and that the country all around was in a blaze. Gen. Hill had been ordered to leave and was burning up all that could aid or comfort the Yankees, or tempt them over. all the wheat, hay, Fort Evans, the Cavalry quarters, Mr. Smart's Mill, etc. were all on fire, and one heavy cloud of dark impenetrable smoke hung like a pall over us. We dressed as quickly as possible and hurried down. Mr. Sneed went very early. We watched and waited to see the cavalry go - they waved us goodbye, as they rode by. Col. Radford, Capt. Blackfort, Mr. Gordon, Mr. Holcombe, Mr. Baxter, Mr. Gugenheimer, Gen. Hill, Maj. Parker, Maj. Nash, also waved us goodbye as they rode past. Oh me! Oh me! I never felt so sad. In the evening we had prayer meeting at Miss Elizabeth Clagett's from the text "Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid, Ye believe in God, believe also in me". Afterward I came back and went to see the girls a little while. They were very much disturbed at the prospect of the federals coming and at the departure of our troops. We none of us dreamed however that the Yankees would come immediately, but bright and early Saturday morning, we were aroused by the fearful shout "The Yankees are here" and sure enough they were riding about town, questioning everybody. They came immediately. (28th Pennsylvania Infantry and Knap's Independent Battery).Note: Dead - B.F. Cassell, Mr. Sneed, Frank Anderson, Gen. Griffin, Oscal Stuart.

Wednesday, March 12th, 1862. When will wonders cease! We have been since Saturday in a fever of indignation at the idea of being in possession of the Yankees, but now this beautiful morning not a soldier is left in town. The Federals have made an advance movement and we expect before many days to hear of a desperate and decisive battle. We have had a glorious victory, off Old Point, between there and Norfolk, in which we have taken at least 2,000 prisoners! The Yankees arrived Saturday morning, and some came directly to Uncle Henry's stable, or barn as it is called, and it has been filled with the horses of their cavalry ever since until this morning. I never remember being so thoroughly indignant as I was that day - in fact, the whole day was spent in sewing and holding indignation meetings among ourselves, and wishing that our brave southerners were only here. Sunday was such a bright beautiful day. The Yankees were quartered in all the churches except the Presbyterian, which is very small, so we had no church, but Mr. Williams sent us word he intended having service at his own house. I could not help thinking of the Old Covenanters meeting together and praying by stealth. We used the prayer for our President and Bishop Meads' beautiful prayer for our soldiers and our cause. I never felt it so heartily as I did then. I felt as if it did me good to hear them. Mr. Williams gave us a beautiful sermon from the Psalms, showing us that God is a refuge in every time of trouble. That night a novel pair of snuffers, or "extinguisher", as Miss Nannie calls them, went around town ordering lights out, at nine o'clock. We didn't put our's out until after ten, but nearly everybody else did.

Thursday, March 13th, 1862.

Washington Thursday, April 17th, 1862. Just as I wrote that date, a little more than a month ago, Sophie Jackson came in and took a French lesson, which though we did not know then, it was destined to be her last, for just after dinner, as I was writing to father, there was a knock at the door and father came in. He said we must prepare to go, the next day, but we begged off, until the day after and promised to spend the next day with Aunt Hettie. We walked that morning, and found Aunt Mary, Ellen Adie, we left paying Lizzie a visit. Friday (the next day) we had a good many visits to pay, so around we went. I should have said first that Thursday evening Mr. and Mrs. Williams took tea at Uncle Henry's and Mr. Janney came in afterwards and spent the evening. Father brought a great many papers and the news of triumph of the Merrimac, or Virginia, which is the right name. We felt very proud indeed of our Cousin, Cousin Catesby (Jones), who was in command the second day's fight, Captain (Commodore Franklin) Buchanan having been slightly wounded during Saturday, the first day's fight. They destroyed three of the best federal ships, the Congress and the Cumberland were sunk, and another taken, and the Monitor disabled, and also many little gun boats sunk, and yet they claim it, as a federal victory! Well, it gave us joy to hear of our brave little fleet.

We left Leesburg quite early Saturday morning, in a drenching rain, and had a pretty rough ride to the Point of Rocks, then we had to go over (the Potomac) in a miserable little skiff, in a pouring rain, and walked in mud knee deep up to the hotel, where they were very kind indeed, and cleaned us off and brushed us up, until we were very comfortable, then we had to wait sometime for the cars, Gen. (George B.) McClellan and his staff having gone up to Winchester, had detained them. Then after we got on the cars, we waited and waited for an hour or two for General (Nathaniel) Banks, who did not come after all. Then we had a very tedious ride in the cars to Relay, which latter place we reached quite late in the evening, and then we had to wait for the cars, which at length arrived, full of soldiers, two regiments, and then we jogged along and reached home between 10 and eleven o'clock and glad enough we were to get to bed.........(parts of page torn)...........reached home many and startling events have happened...........turned, Sunday, Mr. Lynn, of Lynnsdale, dined here.........curiosity, and Drs. Riley and Hagner spent the.......all the next week we were receiving visits from all our........and trying to get our wardrobes in order. The Tuesday next I came back was my 20th birthday, and Sophie and Starr arrived.......morning, from Phila. to make us a visit. Her brother Theodore.......with her, and Capt. Starr also spent the day here. Father gave me a beautiful photograph Album which is more than full of.........I have excellent likenesses of some of our generals, in it. In the evening we all went around to the church to see Mary Codnise married. She married Lieut. Watson of the regular Army. The next day Theodore went over the lines to see the fortifications, etc. and Dr. Rouch came to say there was to be a grand review of 20,000 men at four o'clock, near the seminary and to invite us over, but it was too late to make the proper preparation and none of us could take the oath, so of course, we did not go. That evening Capt. Ellis was here, and we made him sing "Maryland", and he and Theodore sang several beautiful songs. The next day Dr. Rouch wrote a note saying there was to be a review of Dr. Darnell's division, and we must come. Capt. Starr took Sophie, in a buggy, but we declined going. That evening Sally and I walked down to see Mrs. Bradley and Florence Fendall. Willie F. came back with us and stayed to tea, and Mr. North, Mr. Ben Richards, Mr. Cutts, Capt. Starr, and Dr. Rauch spent the evening. Sophie had quite an escape in returning from the review. She was thrown from the buggy in the causeway by the reins but fortunately not hurt. Dr. Rouch came to say we must go the next day. He had brought his carriage for us, so we were ready betimes, but the spring of his carriage was broken and we had to take our open carriage with his horses and driver. We went to Gen. ( ) Anger's headquarters, near Uptur Hill, passing all the fortifications on the other side of the way, Munsin's Hill, etc. Our forces were certainly very near Washington. We were introduced in descending from the carriage to two of the general's aides, Lieut. Cutting, and Capt. Woodhull, and the wife of another aide, Mr. Hodge. The Dr. invited us into his dens, to wash the dust off, and we had quite a funny time. Then we sat in front of the General's den, and looked around the Dr. had a very sweet band brought up to play for us. After that we went to dinner, first we saw the brigade drill. During dinner the General arrived, he was a very pleasant courteous gentleman, rather elderly. The country round there is all changed that it seemed to me like a dream. After while we started on our way home. We thought we would come by Long Bridge as it was shorter, but when we got to the causeway we found 30,000 troops the river. They told us they thought they would soon be over, as they had been crossing since 4 o'clock, but there we waited and waited. The soldiers were the most impudent things, but they said such disagreeable things that..........