Sabbath. This has been a pretty Sabbath. Rode out to Church. The body of John Caldwell [was buried] about 10 o'clock. The coffin was at the grave and his mourning friends took a last look at his face. He was a good man, one of the [page torn] of Hopewell. When I looked at his dead body, I could not but think of the remark of Dr. Jno. M. Mason in reference to one of his pious dead friends. “Here lies sacred dust.” A large congregation was out. Mr. Francis Young came down from Bethany. Mr. Young [preached] the action sermon from John 21: 17 [page torn] Daniel fenced the tables and served—[page torn] the 1st and Mr. Young the 2nd. I returned thanks and dismissed the congregation. After the burial we did not have time for a sessional meeting. A good many of our members [were] detained from church by sickness [page torn] day. Moses Young must have been [page torn] as also did Mr. M. made an appointment at [page torn] o'clock and preached sessional meeting was [page torn] session though—bring the exercises to a close. I acknowledge that I was disappointed at the results. I went down to protract the meeting with enlarged expectations [page torn] to an increase of our members but in both respects I have been disappointed. I should submit with patience for God will make it all right, it will be gathered in due time if we faint not.

There is a good deal of sickness in the neighborhood. Mr. Snipes [saw him] ere I dined) had another severe attack of his cramp last night and his family was kept from church. The elders did not think that protracting the meeting under the circumstances would be prudent. One H. Caldwell [left] to go to his command (Mulls com[mand] Tilghman Scouts.

Tuesday morning [page torn] other J. Wiley was fixing for mak[ing] dam this week. There was no marked religious interest manifested during the meeting. Went to Josiah Caldwells and spent the night pleasantly. Today and yes[terday] we have heard various r[umors]. The accounts in reference to enemy loss are conflicting, some in reference to our own loss. [Say the loss] in officers is heavy. A General S [page torn] is killed. On Monday the 21st, I think it was, there was a stubborn fight 2 m west of Ringgold, lasting from 10 A. M. [until] night. Of course there is much anxiety to hear from our friends in that area.

Ferguson's command is still about New Albany. The people complain of the lawless proceedings of some of the men who are gathering up beeves and corn in that country. Chalmers command up in Lafayette, Falkner's Regiment is camped at the mouth of Tippah, so Br. MacDaniel who was at Shiloh last Sabbath informs me,

Start this morning calling at Wm Reids to see the sick. Find them better. Call also at John Caldwell's in order to get some dates so as to forward to the Telescope an obituary for publication. Leave there near ten o'clock and reached home at 3 o'clock. I called at Hams camp on the way. See several friends. Went to the Dripping Spring of which I have heard since I have been in the country but never saw it untill today. The camp is close to it and they use [water] out of it. Ham himself is absent, has gone to Okolona.

They have nothing definite in reference to the late [battle.] Bragg has issued an address to the troops in which he states that [they] have driven the enemy back 20 miles and have gained a decisive victory. He furthermore states that at that time the enemy was recrossing the Tennessee. Pa has heard glowing reports if only they be true, as follows; their loss is 5,000. The enemy has lost over a hundred pieces of artillery and we have 52000 men in our hands as prisoners. We have lost five Generals, two killed and three wounded. It is also reported that we have captured their entire waggon train. I do not doubt from the reports we have that a decisive victory has been gained, but I cannot but think that the results are exaggerated.

Erskine was over at Brice's this evening. He heard that we had not captured the enemies waggon trains, they burnt them. Chattanooga is not burnt. The Yankees are North of the Tennessee. I think that perhaps in a few days we will have some reliable facts from that quarter. This evening I have not done much but writing up my journal. I saw a Missouri Democrat of the 15th, but did not read much in it. Mr. Simone had it. The day has been pretty, early this morning and late this evening there was some appearance of clouding. It is very dry and dusty.

Dr. Bynum and Kimmins, his father-in-law called in this morning. Their families are at Brice's, they have had to leave their homes. Kimmons was burned out on the 19th. Dr. Bynum came up from Tibbie Station yesterday. From him we gather some items in reference to the recent battle. It is called the battle of Chickmaugua and was fought the 19, 20, and 21st inst. Gen. Hood had his leg shot off. Maj. Karr of the 32nd M was killed. Bragg in an address to his soldiers tells them they have fought nobly but the victory is only half won. He states that our loss is 10,000 of which 6/7 are wounded. The enemy's loss 25,000, of whom 7,000 are prisoners. We have taken 68 pieces of artillery, stands of small arms, 150 waggons, knapsacks, &c. &c. This is the first reliable intelligence we have had in reference to these matters. Longstreet and Breckenridge attacked the centre. The Yankees fought bravely. Prisoners report that Rosecrans is wounded.

It is rumored that the Yankees are fortifying at Chattanooga. Bragg has ordered forward his troops. It is supposed from this fact that the Yankees have crossed the Tennessee. The battle of Chicamauga [page torn] divisions (one of them Negleys). The remainder of Rosecrans army retired in good order. The Yankees took 6 pieces of artillery from Cleburnes division during the night.

This day has been clouded and appearances indicate rain soon.

This morning was dark and lowering and the day throughout has been drizzly and this evening is raining. Came on over home early and remained indoors most of the day owing to the wet and drizzly character of the day. Brought over from Aunt R. a volume entitled “the Waldenses,” and have read it I may say through today. Those people of God have passed through horrible persecutions by the papists. It is as interesting as a romance. Pa called at Mrs. Abner Branyan's to see [her child] who has the croup. He called back [page torn]

Falkner was in camp and made a speech this morning. He is a candidate for Congress. Beverly Matthews of Columbus is also in camp. Pa is of the impression from what he hears that the matter is being considered whether Ham's battalion shall not be turned over to the Confederate service.

Dave Crockett was over this evening to see if he could not buy “Kit” mule Pa was not here and I gave him no encouragement.

No news from the Chickamauga battle today. Engaged in critical studies this evening.

This day has been part clouded. After dinner the sun shone out prettily. The day however has been damp and chilly. This evening I rode over to Ham's camp, hoping to hear some news, but this objective measure failed. They have no news and the reports they hear from Bragg do not vary greatly from Dr. Bynum's statements of Tuesday morning. Everyone seems to be in the fog in reference to the details of the battle. A Mr. Beechum of Itawamba told me that Gen Wood was severely wounded though he was not dead.

From what I can gather I think it altogether probable that the Yankees still hold Chattanooga and are fortifying but no one seems to know anything of the posture of affairs in that quarter. I rode over to Uncle's and spend the night.

Ham will move his camp tomorrow down near Clark's again. The object of Matthew's visit was to obtain the command of Ham's Battalion. It is not probable that he will gain his object. Micajah Berry was in camp yesterday electioneering for Congress.

A party went up to the Yankees, (Vicksburg deserters) a few days ago and captured 9 Yankees and some horses. The Yankees say they intend to be at Ellistown and Guntown on the day of the election and help vote. A party of 300 Yankees came down in 3 or 4 miles of New Albany a few days ago. They returned in safety, although Ferguson with 2 regiments was at Albany.

Up very early and breakfasted by daylight as Uncle Jo wished to return to camp by times. Sat awhile after breakfast and then came on home. Ham's battalion moved this morning. Today has been a most beautiful day. The sky was a deep blue and very clear. I do not remember to have seen a single cloud this day. Mrs. Abner Branyan came over after dinner to get Pa to see her child's throat. The uvula is elongated and is presenting an unusual appearance and she became alarmed. Mr. Brice sent after Pa to go and set his arm which had got out of place at the shoulder joint while holding the mule he was riding, the bridle thrown across his arm, the mule became frightened and jerking the bridle, dislocated the arm.

Smythe is up on a visit from below, happened there and made an unsuccessful effort to set it. Pa succeeded in doing the job.

Have some items in reference to the situation in Chattanooga. Rosecrans with his army is at Chattanooga. Bragg's army is scattered from 2 to 7 miles this side of the city. Longstreet's Corps occupy Lookout Mountain and it is said that with his artillery, he has complete command of the city. The Yankees have but one door of escape, that is across Wallen Ridge, but for some reason they do not fancy that route. We hear that Rosecrans has made two efforts to get out but was unsuccessful each time. Bragg is in no hurry: perhaps having cut off their supplies, he hopes to starve them out. Longstreet can shell the city when he wants but will not. We have no particulars about the late battles, they seem slow coming. Mr. Edwards told me that he understood the 32nd Miss. suffered severely but has no particulars. Wrote a rough draft of an obituary for my aged and pious friend, John Caldwell, who died last Saturday.

This has been another pretty day: clear and pleasant. This evening I noticed a few dry small clouds floating about, the most marked feature of the day has been its dulness. I have not noticed anyone passing the road today and consequently have no news. Every thing is quiet and still and dull. I have done nothing but loll about and scribble. Studied a little on Romans. As I have not written a sermon this week, today was too late to begin the work.—I must try to write a sermon every week hereafter.

Saw a “Clarion” of the 23d which was left here yesterday by Mr. Lewis envelloped for Mr. Bullock. From it I infer the battle was fought on the 19 and 20th, on Peavine Creek, 11 or 12 miles West of Ringgold. Gen. Preston Smith of Tenn. was killed, also Gen. Helm, [Gen.] Wofford and another whose name I do not remember. Several Generals were wounded. Did not from this paper get a very satisfactory account of the battle: the accounts being too meager. It is unusual for me not to hear some rumors and reports every day but today I have none. After we lay down, between 10 and 11 o'clock a party of serenaders came and standing on the portico played on the accordian. It was very pretty. We do not know who our entertainers were. They were three in number, only one performed.

Clear and pretty day but rather chilly. A portion of the day we had some wind and in the wind it was quite cool. Rode up to Mt. Zion but found no congregation. Redding Smith has called here on Friday was a week and told me would sing. I told him to let it be known. Lemuel and Laura Holmes were there. Came on back by Dixon's and dined there. Smith had not said anything about the appointment. He is sick, I don't understand the matter. Sat at Dixon's an hour or two, came home. Overtake a conscripting squad of cavalry with 16 men, caught last night at Concord Baptist Church. Hear this evening sad tidings of the late battle. The 32nd Reg. is badly cut up. A Virginia regiment failed to take some battery of the enemy which it was important should be carried. The 32nd was brought against it and took the battery, but at a precious cost. Company B lost heavily in killed and wounded. We don't know haw many. The following are reported killed. Riley Wallis, Walter White, James Galloway, Capt. Lee Kennedy and Eber Gambrell. Brantly Wallis was wounded in the arm. Winfield was also wounded and his father is bringing him home. He is expected tonight. We cannot hear anything of the other boys. More are killed and wounded but there seems to be no certainty who they are. Late this evening Granville Woods passed in a gallop to Ham's camp, reported a small party (40) Yankees above. It was thought that they would feed at Stubbs. Read this evening Homes Introduction.

Yesterday heard that Johnston was at New Albany one day last week, and that he intends bringing his infantry to Pontotoc. Pa heard at Church that his infantry were now at Okolona but “somehow or somehow else”, I don't believe it.

This has been another pretty and pleasant day. Mother and Mary went over to Aunt Rilla's. Pa was also there. We now know some news about the casualties of Chickamauga. Lee Kennedy was not killed. W. White was shot in the head, Rily Wallis in the back of the neck. They died on the field. James Galloway was shot in the bowells and died next morning. Eber Gambrell was shot in the head—though he is still living, he would certainly die. His brain was oozing out. A Mr. Jones and Melton are also killed. Jno. Agnew was severely wounded by a shell Sabbath morning and fell. He was borne off by the boys. He was struck on the hip above the joint, his wound is not dangerous. John Young is safe. Tapp is wounded on the hand. Pat Bryson is slightly wounded on the top of the head. Winfield Scott is badly wounded. Thad Bryson is home, wounded in the arm. The slightly wounded are furloughed for 30 days, the badly for 90. Jno. Agnew cannot be moved yet. This particulars are interesting but saddening.

Uncle Jo & Holland were here for dinner. They started to the precinct but did not go. A mule, Dave, was very sick & we were doctoring him untill it was too late. Uncle Jo was up on a scout last night towards Stubbs. Yankees were there, really, variously estimated at from 360 to 1500. About sundown they were at Snow's and took him prisoner. Ten came out to McCarely's. They left Snow's going towards Kelly's Mill. It uncertain whether they went on down the Wolf's Ferry road or to Kelly's. This evening we have reports of Yankees in another direction. They were reported to be coming down and at 1 1/2 o'clock, were between Rogers and Carrollville. Ham's men are badly scattered at the different precincts and will not be able to do much. A good many are at Baldwyn but I expect the Yankees will scatter them from there. We know nothing of the numbers or movements of these Yankees above Baldwyn. Their object is doubtless to disturb the election. I do not expect there was any voting at our precinct.

The mule Dave has been very sick this evening. He was first noticed about 1 o'clock. He has colic I suppose and seems to suffer a great deal. We have drenched him with several things but he does not seem much relieved and I will not be surprised to get up in the morning and find him dead.

Rested badly last night. Scarcely sleeping any. It rained on me and my quilt got wet, and without fire it was very uncomfortable. By break of day were up and got a little fire started by a match. Pa came on home. I went to Uncle Jo's and took breakfast. The Yankees did not do much damage there. They took a mule and left a worn out horse: hoof diseased, took Pa's gun and broke it to pieces—a pitcher and drunk all their milk. Aunt M. J. had nothing to say to them. Nance was their host. Camp back to camp & having fed our stock we moved further away as we wished to be more distant if the Yankees would pass again. Came in by noon having been informed that the danger was over for the present. Now we may look over what the Yankees did. They were ambushed by Ham at the Bluff, this side of Dry Creek, but no harm was done. The Yankees went on down to Camp Creek bridge then they turned back this. At Mrs. Billingsly's they took what edibles they could find and some bed quilts. Ditto at Rice's— they shot at Rice and it is feared he is killed. They shot at Uncle Tom several times yesterday morning, but did not hit him. At Brown's they did nothing only get some water. They camped at Stubbs last night and. tore Stubbs' all to pieces, killing his sheep & hogs &c. Haddon was released at Wiggington's and told to go home and behave himself. The Yankees were very mad because they did not get our mules, and cursed “powerfully” on the subject. They tried to hire Stubbs' Dave and Harkners to pilot them this morning to Oliver Nelson's, but they would not be hired. Siddall's John told then that from above there he could pilot them to Dr. Jessee McGee's, and from there they could come down to the Nelson neighborhood. And it is feared they will make this move. Saw Elijah Seals this evening. He hears Forest has got in the rear of Rosecrans and captured a train of 800 waggons. There was a fight about New Albany within a few days. According to my information 15 Yankees were killed dead, 6 captured. Owing to the information brought by Haddon, Pa deemed it best to take the mules to the thickets again. I went taking Wile, Neil and Harvey. This morning had a heavy dew, the bushes were wet. The day has clouded and chilly. Tonight is clear and cold.

We had a white frost this morning, the first I have noticed this season. The first killing frost we had was on the morning of the 4th but I did not see the frost, lying late in bed. Came in early for breakfast. Pa concluded to have the mules brought in, I did this, & lolled about the house awhile. Martin was over awhile this morning. From what Haddons says I infer Mary made a favorable impression on the Yankees. Some of the negroes say they said Margaret was “brazen faced.” Haddon was released a mile and a half above Wiggington's.

Everything was quiet about Nelson's this morning. Rode over to the Cross Roads to Brices. Ham's men got back this morning and are at their old camp. The Yankees have gone back. They were at the Widow Carpenter's yesterday about 10 o'clock. It is said they captured about 6 of Carpenter's men. They burned down Youngblood's workshop. His wheat & oats in it were burned. At Brices they did no plundering. Some of Ham's men fired on them from near the Church. They pursued and captured Maj. Belsher. Yankees stood in line of battle on the roads leading to Ripley, Jacinto & Fulton while the column advanced down the Pontotoc road. At Uncle Young's he ran from them through the fields, they shot at him several times but he escaped. They did no plundering on the Pontotoc road, Ham's men being the object of their entire attention. They pumped Mrs. Brice closely in regard to Ham's numbers, whereabouts, &c. A Mr. Patton, another one of Ham's men was captured, 1 Yankee was certainly killed at Clayton's and several were certainly wounded. Bloody rags were seen in our lane. Easely Clark went to the Yankees, so Mrs. Brice tells me, and he is the “gentleman” who piloted the Yankees through from Camp Creek here. He did not show himself to our negroes, but the Yankees told our negroes that a negro from below had come to them and showed the way. Got a Mississippian of the 30th and looked at a Mobile paper of the 30th & Oct. 1. Rosecrans is being reinforced from Meade's army. Nothing important from Charleston or Bragg. The Yankees report that our Wess is dead. He died of fever this summer. Eliza tries to believe that it is a little Wess who belonged to Clark because Clark's Gus paid for the coffin. The Yankees told Haddon that our Wess was dead.

Rode aver to Aunt Rilla's tonight & took a letter from John which Watson handed to me this evening. On the 30th John was in the 3d Georgia Hospital at Augusta. He would go to Due West on furlough soon. Uncle Jo passed me this evening. He understands that the cavalry were all to meet at Tupelo a few days back and had been ordered to Chattanooga. Mr. Brice told me this morning that 5000 cavalry had passed up east of Guntown yesterday evening. What the move means we know not. Brice thinks they are going to attack Corinth, but the force in not strong enough for that. I can hardly think the cavalry from this county will be sent to Chattanooga for that will leave us without the shadow of defense. It is a mysterious move. Richy's Dave returned from Okolona Tuesday evening. He says “Mr. Bragg has gone to Corinth” but he may have the wrong name. The day has been clear and bright.

This has been a bright, pleasant day, the night and mornings however are cool. Came on over home after breakfast. Aunt Rilla came over with me nearly to Phillips where she met Pa and turned back. She wished to consult him in reference to some medical matter. Pa spent this forenoon at Mrs. Watts' grinding his sugar cane. Pate of Starkville came in at noon. He is just from below. People around Starkville are generally well. Pressly is having a protracted meeting, Lowry and Barkly are assisting him, from what Pate says it is a Union meeting of different denominations. It has been continued for about 3 weeks and a great many have joined the Church. Pate is of the impression that Lowry is living in Oktibbeha now on the Bell place, but I think he must be mistaken.

Serg't Childs of the 1st Confed. Cav. passed this evening on his way to Bragg's army. He has been in West Tennessee recruiting. He has several youthful recruits along. Uncle Young passed up to Ebenezer this evening. I expect to start in the morning.

Wrote a letter to Bonner enclosing 5 dollars for the Telescope and an obituary notice of John Caldwell. Learn that Ferguson's Brigade of Cavalry consisting of Bartow's Tennessee and Cunningham's and Boyle's Alabama regiments have gone to strengthen Bragg's left wing. And this is the mysterious move of which I heard yesterday. This weakens the cavalry force here considerably. But I don't know what force we have here. Pate gave me a Mobile Telegraph of the 6th. Bragg has suspended Polk, Hindman and Forest from their commands for disobedience of orders in the recent battle. This paper reports all quiet about Chattanooga, Charleston & other quarters. Magruder sometime lately has gained a victory at Sabine Pass, a bloodless achievement on our part. We captured 2 Gunboats &c. &c. Pate says it is rumored that Longstreet is on the other side of the Tennessee. He thinks that Clark is undoubtedly elected Governor.

Up early and fixed for being off to Ebenezer. Started near 7 o'clock and rode on. Mr. F. A. Young caught up with me near Knox's. I stopped at Kelly's and sent mine and Holland's watches to McAllister's by a Mr. Pitner together with a note instructing him what to day. Mr. Guyton told me as I went up that we have taken LaGrange and 3000 negroes. Also that Rosecrans has surrendered his entire army to Bragg. These reports must be confirmed before I have any confidence in them. I met Worthy and H. Branyan coming from Mill near Wilhites. Reached Ebenezer during the prayer before sermon. Mr. Young preached from Gal. 6:7. After preaching went to Mr. Robison's and dined. He has a wounded soldier of Bragg's army (Robinson, of Gibson Co, Tenn.) stopping with him a few days.

At Candle-lighting I preached at the Ridge Church to a house full from Job 7:20. Spent the night at Mr. Black's. He is sick at this time. Gather up some items during the day. The Ebenezer boys in the recent battle all escaped except Wm Liddell who is dangerously wounded. Our cavalry have certainly gone up towards the Railroad and on thursday there was cannonading heard in that direction, and it is certain there was fighting near Salem. It is also reported that Richardson has made an attack on the M & C R R near the Wolf River Crossing. It is reported that we have captured LaGrange and Grand Junction, and from the fact that our cavalry in still above, not having fallen back, the most regard the rumor as probably true. One thing is certain, our cavalry have been fighting up near the Railroad— certainly near Salem. Some think it is only to divert the attention of the enemy untill Ferguson can get to Bragg. Others think the object is to let Richardson back up in West Tennessee. The day has been mostly clear and pleasant. This evening some small watery looking clouds in the west.

This forenoon was clouded. Mr. Sanders was about as he has been this morning. Start for home. Mr. Young stopped at Kelly's while I rode up to Col. J. H. Barry's to get some watches which McAllister had to leave there. The Col. was very friendly. Got the watches, the charges were extortionate. Mr. Young was charged $10 for repairing & cleaning. He charged me five dollars for fixing my watch. Say the chain of my watch was not broken but the main spring was. The same was the matter with Holland's watch—and the same charge was made. I do not think that anything was the matter with the mainspring but I do not know, I am “satisfied” with McAllisters charges.

Rode on home. Mr. Young went by Gambrell's leaving me at Snow's. I caught up with D. Humphreys, Mrs. S. Rowan and Sam Porter at Hatchie. I had company home. This evening has been rainy and damp. It is still current that we have LaGrange, a lady Mrs. Spencer passed Kelly's yesterday who was returning from Memphis. She says it is so, but yet I cannot rely on the news without further particulars. On Saturday a great smoke was seen from Ripley in the direction of Pocahontas and it is conjectured that that place was being evacuated, and burnt. Chewalla is said to be evacuated. Our cavalry move on the railroad is no doubt important, but we know very little about it. They went up well supplied with crow bars and hence it is conjectured their object is to tear up the railroad. Pa tells me that he hears that a very large number of troops were passing through Corinth last week going west to reinforce Rosecrans. If this is so, the object may be to tear up the railroad and prevent them from travelling that route. Rosecrans is said to be surrounded, longstreet having crossed the river.

Mary tells me this morning that during my absence intelligence of the death of Winfield Scott has been recieved. He died of his wounds. When his father left him he thought he was doing well and would get well. But how often are human hopes disappointed.

Pa started about 9 o'clock to the Poplar Springs Tan yard to see if he can got some leather there. The day throughout has been cloudy, this morning the sun did shine out for short intervals, tonight is rainy. Heavy showers are falling with sharp lightning and heavy thunder. Uncle Jo is home on a two day furlough to get him a pair of shoes if he can. He has no news. It is reported that Corinth is evacuated, a scout has been sent up to see if it is so. Ham is absent, having gone to Tibbie. The report of the capture of LaGrange is still current. There are no doubt movements along the M & C R R which are important but we can only conjecture what they are. Very much interested reading Josephus' 2 vol tonight. Mrs. Hickey here this evening. Mr. Brice started to So. Ca. on Monday. Very little passing today. All's quiet.

This morning was rainy and the day has been mostly cloudy. Tonight I think it is cooler. Pa returned from his leather expedition to Poplar Springs. He could get no leather there. Tonight rode over to Aunt Rilla's & spent the night. See a Mobile Evening News of the 7th. An attack has been made (on the 6th) on the Federal ship Ironsides at Charleston which was only partially successful. On the 5th the batteries of Bragg opened on Chattanooga. On the 6th up to 11 o'clock there was no firing. The Tennessee was rising and one of Rosecrans' Pontoon Bridges had been swept sway. Rosecrans has artillery posted an Wallen's Ridge and Chattanooga is being well fortified. The rumor is still very current that Rosecrans has surrendered to Bragg. It is said to be published in Yankee papers, and a great many believe it, but I acknowledge I am slow to believe it. It is also reported that Forest has captured Gen. Hookor. From the M & C R R every thing is still indefinite. Pa heard while below that our men have torn up 40 miles of the R. R. above and below LaGrange, though it is now said that we have not and do not hold LaGrange. It is also said that Chalmers is advancing towards Memphis with the design of burning it. I hear nothing confirmatory of the reported evacuation of Corinth. We hear many rumors but have but little on which we can place much reliance. The rumored surrender of Rosecrans may be true, but I am of the opinion that it is premature, originating from the fact that this is thought to be the only course open to him. I give some credit to the tearing up of the Charleston R Road, for I know that preparations were made to this end.

A pleasant day. This morning was rainy but by noon it cleared up and this evening was bright and sunshiny. Rode home soon after breakfast wearing William's overcoat to protect me from the rain. Have lolled about home doing nothing very special.

A Mr. Bowlen from near Chesterville, passed just before noon. He bought Erskines goats at $2. apiece. He says it is certain that Rosecrans has surrendered to Bragg. We have 86000 prisoners. He says there was a dreadful slaughter before they would give up. Bowlen says this was telegraphed to Okolona Saturday and Sabbath. This rumor coming as it has done for the last six days every day must have some foundation. This I have hitherto been reluctant to believe. Bowlen also says the Charleston Railroad is certainly torn up, and the Yankees have drawn in their lines, the nearest Yankee being just a half mile this side of Corinth.

Rode with Mary down to Uncle Young's and spend the night. Uncle Young says the Rosecrans rumor was telegraphed but lacks confirmation. See from his papers that Rosecrans is being heavily reinforced from Meade's army. See also the Casualties of the 32nd Reg. The following is the list for Co B. Killed— Andy Baker J. P. Galloway, T. R. Jones, J. B. Milton, Walter White & R. R. Wallis.—Wounded—1st Serg Wm Phillips, Serg B. Wallis slightly, Corp. J. D. Agnew dangerous, Corp. J. N. McGee slightly, Corp. W. F. Rowan serious, Privates T. M. Bryson, J. C. Daniels, J. H. Garrison, J. H. Harris, Charles Kramer, M. M. Morgan, Franklin Shepperd, R. W. Scott, W. E. Gambrell seriously. Privates Porter Bryson, William Chastien, W. J. Davis, S. L. Davis, F. M. Daniels, W. J. Jones, B. P. Strickland, B. F. Smith, Levi Tapp, T. J. Taylor, Color Corporal, Josiah Watts slightly. In the 45th Co. G the following are the casualties—Capt. J. N. Sloan wounded Dangerously, under jaw shot off, James Hatfield, J. R. Henry, David Morgan, Ed Morgan, W. D. Pannel, W. T. Stacks, Wm. Wiley slightly, Corp. John Roberts, Allen Roberts, A. Parker seriously. Maj. F. C. Karr was dangerously wounded in the lungs. The above is a long list, but I know the most of them, much interested looking over Uncle Young's old papers.

This morning was lowering and cloudy, and I thought that we would certainly have a wet day. The whole forenoon has been threatening but now, at noon, it promises to be a fair evening.

This morning I have been chiefly employed on my critical studies, having now finished the 1st Chapter of Romans.

Have heard some items. Tom was telling me this morning that Lieut. Burrow met up with some Yankees between Ripley and Saulsbury and being too strong for him he had to return. He lost a fine horse and a negro boy. Several tell me that our cavalry have certainly torn up 15 miles of the Charleston R R—yesterday's information to the contrary notwithstanding. Saw John Allen going to Uncle Joseph's after the horse the Yankees left there, it being the property of David Allen.

Sabbath. This morning is clear and pleasant, heavy rains have evidently fallen during the night. James Carlile slept with me last night.

Rode out to Church and preached from Deut 32:46. The congregation was not large. Dine at Wiley's and rode up to Aunt M. J's and spend the night. Meet this evening an unusual number of persons: citizens passing from one house to another. Learn today that on friday they were moving the papers from the County offices at Pontotoc for safety, the place being threatened with Yankees. Of the whereabouts of the Yankees and our Cavalry learn nothing very definite. Chalmers is said to have fallen back and the Yankees are pursuing him. The Yankees are reported to be about Oxford, and our men somewhere between this and Oxford. One report represents our men at Abbeville, another as near Grenada. I am of the impression that but little was accomplished on the Railroad but have no definite information. Mr. Corder told me this morning that he has heard that Jeff Davis and Lee have come on to Bragg. The day throughout has been pleasant.

Came on home after breakfast. J. Curtis Bolton of Pontotoc was here yesterday, also Saturday night. He was hunting beeves for the army. He is an acquaintance of Mary's. Understand that Ham is camped on Yarnaby near Judge Harris' some 6 miles S of Birmingham. This is so far south of us that this section will reap little or no advantage from them—we are left to the mercy of the Yankees.

This forenoon was clouded. It however cleared up this evening without rain. Tonight I notice lightning in a western direction.

Mr. Bolton was off for Pontotoc early. I came on home by Esq. Holmes'—at Aunt R request.

Have done nothing special to note today, I was engaged as usual. Understand that Gholson's command is on Cherry Creek and that Ham had gone to reinforce Chalmers. A column of Yankees were reported to be advancing towards Pontotoc from Holly Springs.

Holland is home tonight. He says Ham did start westward but was ordered back and has gone somewhere near Saltillo, and he thinks Gholson will move over on the R. R. somewhere below Saltillo So it seems that the conjectures in reference to the evacuation of North Miss were groundless. Understand there is a large Yankee force at Iuka, some Northern general having made that place his Head Quarters. Unfortunately I again broke my watch at 7 o'clock this morning. I am very sorry but will have to take it up to McAlister's again. We have today no news or rumors from Bragg or Beauregard.

Notice this evening a flock of wild pigeons flying over going westward, these are the first I have seen this fall. They will find the acorn crop short. I notice very few hickory nuts this fall.

As soon as I awoke heard thunder and on getting up found it closely clouded, and the day throughout has been cloudy and rainy. Heavy rains fell, especially in the forenoon, in consequence of which it is quite muddy. The day has been raw and unpleasant and this evening I think is a good deal cooler. Study a few verses of Romans critically. There has been no passing today. Mrs. Harrison, daughter of Mr. Bradbury, came up with her father late this evening after a cow & calf she had purchased from Pa. She paid $70.00 for the cow. Mrs. H. came down from the neighborhood of Corinth yesterday. She gave me some items from the Federal lines. Heavy reinforcements are passing through Corinth going to Rosecrans. Hurlbut's Division passed an Monday morning eastward. Sherman's Division had already passed. The lines now extend eastward from Corinth to Tuscumbia Ala. There is no news from Rosecrans. The Yankees are concentrating a large part of their forces there to meet Bragg. They say they will whip out all the South in 6 months. Mrs. H. tells me that the 66th Indiana Reg. have done more harm to the citizens than any other. They are not at Corinth now.

Miller's Ohio Reg. from near Pocahontas has gone east. Have heard nothing from Bragg today, nor from Ham. The unpleasant character of the day could prevent much passing about.

Wrote to Aunt Sarah this evening.

This has been a quiet, uninteresting day. Mostly clouded but the sun shone out pleasantly about noon,

Commence a sermon on Ecclesiastes 8:11. Have been thinking on the text, have only written 2 pages, just commenced.

Have heard very little. A Mr. Green of Carpenter's command passed up just after dinner afoot. He has heard that Bragg has evacuated Lookout Mountain and the valley and has his army an this side of the vally. He first said that Rosecrans had driven Bragg from Lookout but said there was no fight. This should have occurred, according to his statement, on the 13th. Green also told me that Ham is down near Harris' fixing up a Brigade. Lowry's Regiment is already with him. Green's items are unsatisfactory. He does not know much about affairs, cannot tell what valley Bragg has evacuated. Green is the only man I have spoken to, there being little or no passing. Times are still & quiet in this quarter.

The day has been fall like. The leaves are falling in showers and the forest has the “autumn hue”. Pa today has been selecting his seed wheat: it is much adulterated.

When I awakened before daylight it was raining. Pa says it commenced before 2 o'clock. This day throughout has been rainy and inclement. The forenoon was especially wet, very heavy showers falling occasionally. This evening has been too cool to rain much, though once and awhile I have noticed a sprinkle falling. Have been mostly engaged writing on my sermon. This was cool business in my room without a fire. I had frequently to go downstairs and warm. The day has been so inclement that there has been little or no passing. See Mr. McRory from the Birmingham country. He heard that Bragg has lately whipped Rosecrans: that Lee has gained another victory and that 20,000 (twenty thousand) cavalry are on Yarnly between Harris' & Knight's Mill. I don't believe any of this news.

See Dixon this evening. He had been down to Richey's. He there heard, and it was confirmed at other places, that Bragg was still retreating. We had not heard that he had commenced to retreat. Dixon said he was, when last heard from, at Tilton, a short distance south of Dalton and still falling back. Rosecrans was too strong for him hence Bragg had to fall back, heavy reinforcements are being received both by Bragg and Rosecrans. What Bragg's plans are no one knows. If Rosecrans cannot be defeated, Georgia and Alabama will be over-run by the Yanks. A few weeks will determine the case. Ham is camped at Knight's Mill.

May got a letter from Cousin May Todd this evening. No news in it. I got it 2 weeks ago, but forgot to give it to her.

Very cool this morning. Ice is to be seen about 1/8 of an inch thick in the barrells at the spouts of the gutters. This is the first ice I have seen this fall. The entire forenoon was clouded, but since noon it has cleared up prettily. Have been engaged finishing my sermon. Also wrote a letter to Jno. D. Agnew, Due West, S. C. Have not seen any one outside of the family and consequently have not heard any news.

My horse is now at the gate and I must start to Hopewell soon.

Just after breakfast saw 2 of Ham's men returning from above. They tell me that Sherman is in command at Corinth and that there are about 30,000 Yankees now there. For several days no passing in or out of the Yankees lines has been allowed. They confirm the victory in Va. & think the battle was fought about the 15th inst. The Yankees have been driven beyond the Potomac. On the 16th a party of our men (scouting) were in 7 miles of Washington.

A squad of Ham's men passed up the road this morning in search of beeves. They went on up on 20 mile. A young Mr. Kyle of Saltillo was here this morning hunting wheat. Pa had none to spare. Maj. Humphreys was over this forenoon to see if he could get some blue stone but Pa has no more than he needs.

In the way of news hear that Ham would move from Boling's to Saltillo today. Saltillo is one of the depositories of government corn and Ham is going there to guard it and also use it.

Rode over to Aunt Rilla's and spent the night. Hear that Ellis Lewellen hung himself on last friday morning. His mind had been unsettled for 2 weeks caused, as is supposed by having to go into the Army. He had joined Ham and had to leave for Camp saturday morning. He dreaded it very much, and has slept very little for 2 weeks and his wife feared he would become deranged. On friday morning she thought him more at himself than he had been. She went over to Mr. McDonald's to help warp some cloth. While she was absent he went into the smoke house and hung himself. His daughter was at home: when she discovered her father instead of cutting him down ran to Mr. McDonald's for help. But when McDonald got there and cut him down he was dead. Mr. Lewellen was esteemed in his neighborhood as a kind man, a good citizen, & an excellent neighbor.

The day has been pleasant. In the way of news from Bragg or Lee we have literally nothing. A few cavalry men passed this evening but I did not speak to them.

Came over home after breakfast. Pa, Ma and the family (most of them) went down to Uncle Young's, leaving Mary and I to keep house. Busily engaged a good while selecting white wheat for Pa to sow. His white (Gayle) wheat is mixed with red wheat and his object is to sow a small quantity of pure white wheat so as to get pure seed for another crop.

This morning was pleasant, this evening was clouded and tonight is rainy. Noticed several cavalrymen pass down the road this evening: more than usual, but did not speak with any of them. Quietude prevails at this time. Have not heard any items, either of a military, political or local character. There is even no “magnificent lie” to beguile the people, to arouse hopes never to be realized, or excite groundless fears. We are in ignorance of Bragg's situation, the latest reliable from him was to the 10th ulto. From Lee we have had nothing but rumors but we have none of them today.

This morning was cloudy, but before noon the sun shone out very pleasantly. The greater portion of the day has been clear and pretty. Pa rode up to a sale at Wallis. It was an estate sale. Property sold very high. There is no news current there. It has been not only today but for several days back, remarkably still. The Yankees above us as far as we know are very quiet, and everything seems as quiet as in the “halcyon days of peace.” Our own cavalry also seem quiet. We see and hear nothing of them. Jno. Morrah told me today that Ham is at Boling's place on Tishomingo Creek. My informant of yesterday must have mistaken Holden for Boling. Morrow furthermore told me that 1000 hands are at work on the Railroad and the cars will be running to Saltillo by the last of next week, and then the cavalry from below will come up and winter at Saltillo. But I don't believe any reports of repairing the R. R. Too many rumors of that sort have proven to be false during this year for me to credit this.

We have not a particle of news from Bragg or Lee yet. We know as little of what is going on in the country now as we ever do.

Gather some boneset to be laid away for medical use this evening.

Sabbath. This morning early was clear, but between 9 & 10 o'clock it clouded and has continued all day so. Tonight is closely clouded. Rode out to Bethany. As soon as I got there Mr. F. A. Young told me I would have to preach as Uncle Young was sick and could not be out. He has fever, thinks perhaps he had a slight chill yesterday morning. I had made no preparation for preaching but walked out and reviewed the discourse I preached at Hopewell last Sabbath, and returning went into the Church and preached from Eccles 8:11. A respectable sized congregation were out. Mr. Brice returned from S. C. last night. I borrowed from him Telescopes of Sept. 25, Oct. 2, 16. Also he handed me a Memphis Appeal of the 27th which I was so thoughtless as to read this evening. I need to pray “lead me not into temptation.” In the Telescopes glean some items of interest. Synod met at Ebenezer Ga. Bonner was sick there and had not return, consequently there is not a full account of the proceedings. The Union question is deferred from the fact that a large part of the Synod is “smally” represented, at the same time the Synod expresses the hope that the Union will be effected at an early day. It is overtured to the Presbyteries whether or not it shall be left to the Sessions to invite Presbyterians to commune with them. A board has been constituted to take measures to supply the army with preaching of which Bonner is Chairman. The next Synod will meet at New Hope, Fairfield Dist. S. C. The name of the Moderator is not given. See that Wm. L. Pressly has accepted a call from Generostee and Concord, and was to be ordained and installed by Presbytery, which was to have assembled at Generostee on last thursday. Mr. Brice's brother John died while he was in S. C. From Bragg there is no news, his lines having been closed for some time. From Charleston there is nothing important. They are fighting every day. The impression in S. C. is that Charleston will be burnt but that the Yankees will be prevented from landing. Notice in the Appeal that the Yankees again opened fire on our batteries on the 26th. From Va. we have nothing. See in the Appeal that Meade having been on a visit to Washington has returned to the army & has orders to advance and attack Lee. Meade's head quarters are at Warrenton. See it stated that the R. R. is completely by Lee, and this will retard Meade's advance. From this I infer that Lee has fallen back, perhaps to the line of the Rappahannock.

It is rumored at Church today that the 2nd Tenn. & 2 Ala. Cavalry have “demolished” the notorious 5th Ohio somewhere east of us, last week, perhaps in the Tennessee valley. I have not reliable particulars of the event.

Read today Josephus. Truly the Jews were severely punished by the Procurator Florus, and also by Cestius. The slaughter in some places was immense.

Owens the mail carrier will leave the Cross Roads for Bragg's army on thursday the 5th inst. Brantly Wallis starts back tuesday.

This morning was cloudy, tonight is clear. The clouds have been watery looking during the day and it has been warm, much more so than any day we have had recently.

This evening rode down to Uncle Young's, find him better, I think he is about clear of fever this evening and hope that in a few days he will be “all straight.” From thence I went to Brice's and returned the Telescopes I got from him yesterday. I did not get home untill after dark.

Hear that some Yankees, cavalry and infantry, started out yesterday and went in the direction of Brown's Creek. Also learn that Ham will move above tomorrow morning. His men have orders to cook two days rations. Some say to prepare eight days rations. In camp some talk as if Ham was agoing to attack Corinth but that is mere talk—unadulterated nonsense. The truth is as I conjecture he is preparing to start out tomorrow on a scout towards the Yankee lines. See in the Montgomery Advertiser of the 28 a dispatch from Missionary Ridge of the 27th which states that 2 (or several, I am not sure which) divisions of the Yankee army had crossed the Tennessee to this side at Bridgeport on pontoon bridges. Also that Rosecrans was receiving reinforcements daily. If he gets reinforcements he can get supplies, and this demolishes the popular talk of starving out Rosecrans. It seems to me that things are not getting along with Bragg as well as many seem to believe. If he is making movements against the enemy they have never come to light. His lines have been closed now for some time and I would not be surprised when the truth comes if he is not fortifying some point in his rear to which he proposes falling back. Time will tell, and I may be wrong, but I think if he intended an agressive movement it would have been made before this time. See John Mahon at Uncle Young's. Pa has been complaining somewhat today.

Another pleasant day. Write on a sermon on Psa. 122: 1 Thus employed the most of the day. This morning hear that Sherman and Hurlbut are at Eastport, crossing the river. The building of the Bear Creek Bridge, and the movements indicating an advance by R R to Chattanooga were feints to divert our attention. Some think their real object is to march through Middle Tenn to the N & C R R. I am however more inclined to believe that they will remain somewhere on the Tennessee, getting their supplies from down the river, and will form the right wing of Grant's great army. This evening Ham's Battalion passed by here going to Saltillo. They will camp near Epting's tonight. Only a part ofits battalion is along—but few more than a hundred men. They have been upon a raid to the Charleston Railroad. Richardson's men were along. Yesterday morning before day they burned a good many of the trussels on the road between Saulsbury and Middleton. The road is torn up for a mile and a half. They poured turpentine on the timbers before applying the fire. The depot at Middleton was burned. Although engaged in this work they did not see a Yankee during the route. They say from what they can find out there are very few along that line now, most of the troops having been sent east. The impression among some is that Corinth is being evacuated, but this will doubtless prove false. Billy Henry stopped and is with us tonight. Margaret & Erskine are at Aunt Rilla's. After they left Rosa Melville Howard & Larkin came here and are with us tonight. From what I hear today I think there is no truth in the report of the M & C R R being repaired either to Saltillo or Tupelo.

Our visitors of last night all left soon after breakfast. Saw a Mr. Long of Inge's command this morning, just from Columbus. He has with him some late papers at which I glanced. Pres. Davis is at Charleston. The Yankees are still bombarding away at Fort Sumter. From Bragg there is nothing special. There are some movements in East Tenn of which I gathered nothing definite from my hasty glance at these papers.

The Legislature is in session at Columbus. Pettis' message is not as lengthy as such documents usually are. Jas. Drane is Pres. of the Senate. Locke E. Houston of Monroe Speaker of the House of Representatives. Long told me that he has heard that Bragg has been fighting some, but I did not get the particulars. I suppose it is only skirmishing. He also told me that Lee had a fight with Sherman one day this week, & drove him back this side of Bear Creek. Uncle Jo tells me that they ascertained during the recent raid that two trains filled with wounded had passed on down to Memphis from towards Corinth on Wednesday. This “fits in” with Lee's rumored fight.

Finish my sermon this evening. Copy a little on Sloan's Sermon tonight. The day has been pretty. This evening has been very quiet.

Sabbath. A beautiful day, and I may say perfectly clear. Cooler than we have had. Throughout has been windy.

Rode up to Lebanon, found a very small congregation. Preached from Psalm 122:1 Had no singing, there being no one present who could raise a tune. If things are not more encouraging hereafter than they were today I shall “drop” the appointment. Dine with Col. Kennedy, Thad Bryson also there. Rode on home this evening. And have been reading as usual Josephus. The Jews were blinded to their own interests but God's designs were to be accomplished.

The news is current that there is, or has been, some fighting about Chattanooga latterly: some say a two days fight, others say only skirmishing. The impression is general that a “big battle” is imminent there, in a very short time.

Margaret received a letter today from Miss Essie Bondwell. She writes that Miss Laura Montgomery is to marry a Fred Fulton soon.

Mr. Brice had one of his best mules stolen from him last night. Horse thieves certainly are superabundant in the country at this time.

This has been a clear and cold day throughout. Copy on the Sloan Psalmody sermon, think I will finish in another day. Mr. Brice was in awhile this evening. He had news. Some ladies who came from above Saturday say that the Yankees report some fighting about Chattanooga and they also say they are getting the better of Bragg. Very few have passed, and everything seems quiet in the country. We see no soldiers and hear of no Yankees. Rode over to Aunt M. J's and spend the night. The ride was quite chilly. She had been troubled a good deal with the pains latterly. She has no news.

This morning was clear and cold. Saw ice this morning fully an eighth of an inch thick. It was a frosty, tight morning. Rode on home soon after breakfast. Read some in Eusebius Eccles History. Find in Chapt 4 of Book 10 a panegyric he pronounced on the restoration of the House of God after the persecution. It was delivered in the presence of the Bishop of Tyre. In it I find certain evidence that the Psalms of David were sung in the Church at that time, A D 314. This is testimony which I do not remember to have ever seen adduced on the subject. Finish copying Sloan's sermon today. It is a good sermon but it has been a tedious job to copy it. If I had known the time and trouble it cost me I would have been slow to commence the job.

The day throughout has been very clear, and has also been very quiet. There has been no passing along the road. I have enquired of several and no one has seen anyone passing. In the way of news I have not heard a thing. Not a particle of news of any kind. We have had quiet days recently, but I do not remember any so perfectly calm as this has been. There is so little stirring that it is “dull.” It has been a perfectly calm and quiet day: much pleasanter than when we have Yankee alarms.

Cold and frosty this morning. At Pa's request rode this forenoon over to the Tishomingo Farm to see if anything was damaging the crop ungathered there. Walk through the fields, getting in the trip a good many “cuckleburs” on me. Rode around the entire farm, and found no hogs or cows in the field. Saw a good many wild turkeys on the route, and they seemed gentler than ordinary. I rode within 20 yards of some. They are using in the field and are fareing sumptuously. Saw Beaty and returned. He had seen 2 men with Blue Coats pass down the road this morning in charge of two other men with guns, and he supposed they were Yankee prisoners. The conjecture may be correct, but so many of our own men wear blue coats that there is no telling. Beaty did not speak to these men. The day throughout has been clear, after dinner walk up to the Fresh Field where they are sowing wheat and back. Rode over to Aunt Rilla's, going by Brice's. Saw Dr. Smythe at Brice's. He was complaining. It is currently reported that the Yankees are evacuating Corinth, that they sent off 300 negroe families north in waggons last friday, that they are short of provisions and ammunition, the Railroads having been torn up on every hand: and that there are only 3 Black and 2 white Regiments there now. But these reports are to be received with some allowances. I am slow to believe the evacuation of Corinth. It is reported that Bragg has whipped Thomas badly capturing 12000 prisoners: also that Longstreet had crossed the River and got badly whipped. From the Mobile News I gather some items & they I think are more reliable than these flying reports. On the 1st the Yankees were on Raccoon Mountain fortifying. Their object is to dislodge our men from Lookout Mountain. There was sharp skirmishing on Lookout Creek, which runs through the narrow valley between Lookout, and Racoon Mountains. I think it is probable from this paper that Bragg will have to retreat. Such is the rumor in Atlanta and Macon, though it is not known that the retreat has commenced. This paper is dated the 7th and has not a single item from Bragg i. e. telegraphic. They are still booming away at Fort Sumter.

Notice an advertisement on Brice's Store door stating that “Lily” will be at the Cross Roads on the 13th to assess the C. S. Tax. A Mrs. Owens & Baily were at Aunt Rilla's tonight. They lived near Nolins Store (Tripoli) and have been to Okolona after salt.

After breakfast rode home via Holland's. He & Hickey were home last night. They were up at Lardner's to have their horses shod, but could not have it done untill this morning. Ham is still at Saltillo. They think the Battalion will go above on a scout tomorrow. Hickey has been down about Fulton this week. He tells me that Maj. (Tobe) Devonport was waylaid and shot through the head and killed on Sabbath night 6 miles N E of his Camp. If I understood it, Devonport had been out to see his wife and was returning to Camp. It is not known who did the dastardly deed. John Mahon came down yesterday with 2 Yankee prisoners. He was one of the men who passed Phillips yesterday. He reports there are 3000 white Yankees now at Corinth. This does not tally well with the evacuation rumor of yesterday.

This evening I rode over to Aunt Mary Jane's. Mrs. Hannah has returned from Memphis. She had to swear more than ever she says, viz, that she was not from Mississippi but from Tennessee. And she even had to swear that she was from Shelby County. But I do not know that much dependence is to be placed in her statements, for anybody who would go to Memphis and swear a lie will with as little compunction come home and tell a lie. She brought a Memphis Argus of Nov. 5th. From it I gleaned some items. In the recent elections Ohio and Pennsylvania have both elected Abolition governors, Brough and Curtin. On the 25th Oct. Marmaduke made an attack on Pine Bluff but was repulsed. A Mr. Thomas of Cincinnatti has been arrested on a charge of treason. It seems that he and a good many others had plotted the forcible release of a large number of Confederate prisoners who are confined in Ohio, among others Gen. John H. Morgan. Lincoln & his cabinet are pledged heart and hand to the scheme of universal emancipation, as I judge from speeches of Chase and some others at a great emancipation meeting in Baltimore recently. By an official document from the war department notice that Gen. Wm. T. Sherman is placed in command of the department, and the army of the Tennessee headquarters in the field. Gen. Jno W. Logan is assigned to the command of the 15th Army Corps.

From Chattanooga see an official dispatch from George H. Thomas, Maj. Gen'l, stating that on the 28th ulto we attacked Geary's Division at Waxahatchie but were driven back beyond Lookout Creek. Howard's division advancing to Geary's help was also attacked, but we were repulsed. This occurred on the night of the 28th.

Today has been clear and pleasant. Along the horizon there has been a smoky, hazy appearance all day. Tonight in the west there is a bank of clouds.

Today has been mostly clouded: clouding early, but the clouds have been disipated and contrary to my expectations the sun did blink out just about the time it was setting. Jno. Martin and Mrs. Watt were here awhile this morning, Aunt here also dining with us. She has heard at Brice's that papers of the 10th report Longstreet whipped, his men being badly cut up. There was a heavy battle. Longstreet's loss was 5000, the Yankee loss 15000. However we had to fall back and the Yankees now hold the vally between Raccoon and Lookout Mountains. Longstreet has fallen back 8 miles.

Pa was over at the Cross Roads also this morning. He there saw Stokes. He told him that Dr. Ford returned yesterday from Bragg's Army. Ford however was not permitted to go in the lines. Ford says Longstreet has gone to Knoxville, if this is true the battle is a hoax. Stokes has a paper of the 9th. That says nothing about a fight at Chattanooga. So the reports from Chattanooga are contradictory. But none that contradict have seen a paper of the 10th. A good many are not disposed to believe that Longstreet has been defeated. Mr. Lily the Confederate assessor for Pontotoc County is the man who gives the news, and I am apprehensive it will prove true. Time will tell. A good many went to the Cross Roads to be assessed today but Lily has authority to assess only in Pontotoc County. In the reported Longstreet fight the 15th S C Regiment is said to be cut to pieces. Everybody agrees that Bragg is not retreating. Mary and Aunt Rilla rode over to Mrs. Hannah's & Steps this evening to see if they could not get anything or rather something out their Memphis stocks which they needed. They made no purchases. I have been busily engaged the whole day in writing a sermon in 2 Cor 6:18 on Adoption. Finish the sermon tonight. This has been a busily spent day with me. There has been more passing today than common. Understand that a son of Funderburks was killed below here a few days ago. He had some specie and it is supposed he was killed for his money.

Tonight it is again closely clouded—or nearly so, having clouded since dark. It is warm for the season.

This morning before day between 3 and 4 o'clock we had a light shower of rain. This morning was dark and threatening and looked rainlike. It was very smoky also. It however cleared up prettily before noon. Have not anything special to note for the morning. Wrote a letter to Wm. S. Agnew. Also did a little on my critical studies. It is now nearly 1 o'clock & I must haste away to Hopewell, deo volente. Have heard no news this morning: have seen no one passing.

Started 1/2 after 1 and rode down to Mrs. West's where I spent the night. James Robert Haynie there also. Maj. Wiley told me some things as I passed which I call reports. Rumors— For instance he tells me it is reported that Grant with 80,000 men has surrendered to Bragg. Also that the Yankees have evacuated the line of the M & C R R, burning all the depots and have concentrated at Memphis and Corinth. Saulsbury was burned previous to the evacuation. I have no reliance on the correctness of these reports. Chalmers went up and attacked Collierville on the 5th but was not able to accomplish anything. George Wood of Wallerville was shot through the bowells and died at Chulahoma. The soldiers are down about Chesterville. There is a picket stand below New Albany near Sammel-town. Mull's company is attached to Inges' command (the 12th Mississippi) but there is dissatisfaction in the Company and an effort will be made to get off from that Reg. The evening was clear and pretty. The roads are smooth and firm. Fine for travelling.

Sabbath. Rode over to Mr. W. Reid's and sat awhile. The old man is still almost helpless. He requested me to remember him in my prayers which I promised to do. Rode on to Church, a fine congregation were out. Preached from 2 Cor, 6:18. Rode on homewards without stopping for dinner. Maj. Wiley would have me take some custard in my hand. Called at McDaniel's. He is still “rheumatized.” His Mother is complaining very much of cold. Came on to Uncle Joseph's where I spent the night. Uncle Jo is at home. At Church still hear the rumored surrender of Grant, but I don't believe it. Newton Williams at McDaniel's told me that he had heard that Rosecrans has surrendered with 80,000. That was the talk at Camp Creek today, but I think it will all prove “gass.”

Below the subject of general talk is stealing. On tuesday night last Wm, Thomas and Rufus Davis and a Pannel stole a bale of cotton from Wm. Johnston and started it to Memphis in charge of Mrs. Strickland. Johnson got wind of it, pursued and recovered his cotton. It is indeed a sad occurrence. The Davis family have hitherto stood fair but their good name is now stained. I was surprised to hear this of them. Uncle Jo tells me tonight that in camp it is reported that Corinth is heavily reinforced with new troops. From Bragg he has nothing reliable. In camp it is reported that the Yankee loss was 30,000 in some recent fight. It is strange how confused the news is from Bragg. I don't think there is any reliance to be placed in any of it. I am by no means sure there has been a battle there at all, and am inclined to think has been none. Longstreet is now said to be about Knoxville.

The day has been beautiful, clear and pleasant. Gholson has gone below. Ham has been under arrest but is now released. The R R is repaired, Uncle Jo thinks is repaired to Tupelo. It is now said that they have stopped. This is the report.

Rode over to see Maxwell about that mule. He seems to fear that if he lets it go Ham's men will give him trouble. It seems that some of them have told him to hold it for them. I advised Pa to go over and see him. Maxwell talks like he wanted to do what was right.

A pretty day but smoky. Our soldiers left early saying they were going over to the hills again, but I hear they landed at Guntown near noon. Pa sent Thompson to the Tanyard again today, but again he came up without leather. Bates is a slow man, I fear that he will have to answer for a multitude of unfulfilled promises. Todd & Laura were also off after breakfast.

Engaged on Romans, find some difficulties. Pa rode over to see Maxwell about that mule. There will be a meeting at his house saturday evening to fix up the matter. Youngblood and Holley are to decide the matter. Maxwell talks fair but somehow or other I think he don't like to give the mule up.

Aunt Rilla was here this evening. She has heard that Lee's cavalry are back at Okolona from North Alabama, Sherman and Hurlbut having gone on to Grant on the north side of the Tennessee. There is very little news going today. A letter was received from Jno. Young dated 28 Oct. by his father. They were still on Missionary Ridge. Tison was Col. Swinney Lt. Col. and Norman Maj. of the 32nd Regt. These changes have been made in consequence of the promotion of Lowry to Brig. General. Lt. L. McGuy deserted to the enemy soon after the Chickamauga battle. This is surprising.

This has been a quiet day, nothing having transpired which excited special interest. The day has been mostly clouded: the sun shone out some, as it was not closely clouded. It is quite warm for the season, and think that it will certainly rain soon.

Pa rode up to Wallis' Tanyard on Dry Creek. He engaged some leather for which he will exchange corn. He heard while above that John Tate, Bill Ballentine and some others have deserted to the Yankees, having been seen in the Yankee lines at Corinth. Pa did not get back untill after dark, not having started untill after dinner. From Aut learn that pickets are standing at the Cross Roads, or were yesterday. Hence I suppose it may be certain set down that Ham's battalion is now camped at Clark's. Study a little on Romans. Have also been studying with the view of writing a sermon on the repentance of Judas, showing wherein it differs from evangelical repentance.

Hear today that Dr. Ware's family have fled to Alabama— refugees. They left soon after the Yankees first visited Pontotoc. Also hear that Mrs. Sarah Willbanks, widow of D. P. Willbanks, dec'd, and daughter of J. K. Crocket is dead. She was a nice woman. She died in Choctaw.

Before day this morning when I awakened it was raining and the entire day has been closely clouded and occasionally a drizzling rain fell. The day has been rainy, not continuously, but in showers. The ground is thoroughly muddy. I have all day been engaged writing a sermon on the repentance of Judas, from Matt. 27:3. Have finished the discourse tonight.

Some Texans passed today. They belong to Ross' Brigade. They say they are just from N. Alabama. Their brigade has gone on to Canton. Gen. Lee is at Columbus: a good many cavalry are at Okolona. The railroad is certainly not being repaired. Saw Elij Seals this morning going up home in the rain. Lt. Lewis was severely wounded in the right arm by a man named Mark near Jumpertown recently. Mark was a conscript. There was a false alarm of Yankees below us yesterday. Ham is certainly camped at Clark's. No news from Bragg or Corinth today. News from Bragg seems scarce: no one that I see has anything, and hence I suppose everything is quiet in that quarter.

This morning has been closely clouded: now at noon it looks as if it would break off and be a pretty evening. Study critically 15—19 verse of the third Chapter of Romans. Look over Journals with a view to a birth-day retrospect. Everything has been quiet this morning and I have not heard any news. It is now just 1 o'clock and my horse is at the gate and I must fix to be off very soon for Hopewell.

To my surprise when I got up this morning it was clouded and a heavy mist was falling and the day throughout has been dark and misty. Came over home. Wrote a retrospective view of the past 12 months. This evening rode up to Dickson's to see him about getting some beef. I did not succeed in getting any. Wrote a postcript to my letter to W. S. Agnew and rode down to Uncle Young's and spent the night. Tonight is rainy. Sam Gambrell is at home, he left the 32nd on the 16th. All was quiet at that time, and no prospect of a battle soon. Abrams is home, having shot off his right thumb by accident. I hear very little news today. Understand that some persons rather look for a Yankee raid this week.

Up very early. It rained the whole night I think, and this morning is rainy. About 9 it cleared. Todd was off for Bragg's army by 1/2 after 8. 1 wished him a speedy and a happy return to his home. Came on home between 9 and 10 o'clock. Pa had another mule to die last night. Sorrel Suke. She has been an old and good mule who was worn out. She has been able to do but little for more than 12 months. Before noon it cleared prettily and the evening was clear and pleasant. Mrs. Step was here this morning. She wants to rent some of Uncle Wash's land. Pa referred her to Uncle Joseph, as he has the management of business there. Rode over to Aunt Rilla's and spend the night. L. W, Richey, Mary Turner and Miss Ann Duke were there. Learn that at Saltillo it was reported that there was a fight in the direction of Pontotoc yesterday. The cannonading was heard at Saltillo. There was reported to be 12000 Yankees but a man came into Ham's camp from Okolona today who says that some new ammunition or artillery has been received and they were practising. It was also rumored that every waggons about Okolona has been pressed to haul ammunition and supplies to our men who are advancing to meet the enemy. But I doubt this news, and shall not believe any of it unless confirmed. Corinth is being reinforced so Yankee prisoners report. Learn that Aunt Sarah contemplates returning to Mississippi. She has directed that her cows if unsold be retained. She will come back if she can get her mother to come with her. The Yankees have closed the trade with Memphis and Corinth. It was closed friday the 20th.

The morning was chilly. The day throughout has been clear and pretty. Sat at Aunt R's till Miss Turner & Duke left in order to accompany Luther and Rosa to our house, but just as we were starting Mrs. Brice came up and as she had a Mobile paper of the 21st I delayed awhile to read it, then came on home, find Miss Turner and Duke here also. During the day I have done nothing but endeavored to entertain our visitors—very pleasantly spent.

Mr. Nelson sent down to Pa a lot of Appeals which Tom Miller has sent to Hattie, and today I have had more news than common. The most important item is that Longstreet has Knoxville. In the paper of the 21st notice a dispatch from Atlanta of the 20th which states that Longstreet was in a mile and a half of the place entrenching. Burnsides had retreated to Knoxville, having evacuated the country south of that place. Our Army crossed the Tennessee at Loudon. Capt. Street (so Uncle Jo tells me) came up from Okolona yesterday and says that Burnside is retreating and Longstreet has possession of Knoxville. This will have some bearing on the situation at Chattanooga. Grant and Bragg were both lying quiet at latest accounts. Something definite is expected to be seen of the Yankee plans by the 27th. In Virginia Lee has fallen back this side the Rapidan. On the 7th November, two Brigades (Hoke's and Hay's) were surrounded near Kelly's Ford and a thousand or twelve hundred men were captured. In western Va. Echols has been defeated by Averill at Droop Mountain, and had to retreat to Sweet Springs in some confusion and with considerable loss. Mrs. Brice tells me that a deserter came down yesterday who says there will be no Yankees in Corinth in three weeks. Too good to be true.

Richardsons moved from Molino yesterday to the vicinity of Orizaba. I rec'd a Telescope today of Oct. 30. It contains my obituary of John Caldwell, also extracts from my letter of Oct. 9th in reference to our last raid. Bonner has omitted several items in the letter. See obituaries of Mrs. Sarah S. Willbanks, and Miss Anna Bell of Starkville. I have many more items today than I usually get in one day.

We have ice this morning. The ground is covered with a thin crust. The morning was chilly, I might use a stronger word and may it was cold. The day was perfectly clear and most beautiful throughout. Very rarely have we, if we ever have days prettier than this has been. The day has not only been pretty, but quiet. Everything seems peaceful. Some ladies called at the gate this evening. They were hunting corn and cotton. We see a good many corn buyers, and the article seems to be scarce enough. Cotton seems to be in considerable demand by persons who wish to go to Memphis to get groceries and finery. A great many persons are going or have gone to Memphis to trade with the Yankees, one of the ladies told me that she had recently returned from Lamar in Marshall county. The lines are closed. She says were closed on the 15th. But the impression was they would be opened in 15 days, and at any rate as soon as they got through conscripting and had sent reinforcements to Grant. It seems that the Yankees are conscripting everybody nearly about Memphis, white and black. In consequence 3000 persons have left Memphis. It is also said they are conscripting in the country about Corinth. Some of our neighbors, Mrs. McGee is one, intend going to Memphis as soon as they can. The recent prohibition of trade has interfered with the arrangements of many persons.

Last night was a terrible night to be out. After midnight it rained very heavily till daylight. We had a quilt spread over us as a tent, fastened to small poles. But the quilt soon became so wet that the space it protected was much diminished and it leaked terribly. Moreover the rain was so heavy that the ground was in a float, and the whole surface, even under our cover, was covered with water, our bedding and clothing was thoroughly saturated.

We left our “resting place” and vainly sought protection from the pelting shower, under bending trees. Slept very little and this morning feel very wet and very uncomfortable. How earnestly did we long for the day dawn and constantly look for its appearance in the east. Walked over to the house very early, find the branches in the lane overflowing and the walk very muddy. While at home Beaty came over. The only aditional item he had was that Frank Young had been captured, and taking his horse and money from him, they turned him loose.

Returned to the Bushes and kept the horses there till near night, when we brought them in. Came over after dinner, Bolton was here, he left soon after I came. Uncle Billy Dodson, Wesly Dodson and a Mr. Yerby were also here and remained tonight. In the way of news have very little that is satisfactory. They camped at Burriss' thursday night and used 100 Bbls of corn, a large barn of Fodder and burned 250 pannels of his fencing. They reported that there was 3 Reg. along, each numbering 1200 men, also that another column was advancing through Ripley to unite with them, below. Pa yesterday morning, while near the X roads in the bushes, heard two bugles sound, hence we suppose there was 2 Regs along. And it is supposed their entire number was 1000 or 1200. They were down about Ellistown last night and it is said they were fighting there early this morning. It is also said that they were fighting at 9 o'clock near Kelly's Mill. But whether either report in true I am not prepared to say. Pa sent Thompson over to the Cross Roads this evening to hunt for his spectacles &c. he lost there yesterday. He did not find anything. The Yankees got Pa's hat. Buck was shot in the flank and was bleeding profusely when the Yankees got him. Pa thinks the wound would have been mortal from the range it must have taken. They knocked him in the head with a maul which now lies close by his body. Poor hoss, his sudden and cruel death is much lamented by us. Pa made a very narrow escape. The Yankees travelled every road through those woods in search of him, but thanks be to God he escaped their merciless hands.

Mr. Brice was caught soon after Pa seperated from him. His girth having broken he stopped. He was forced to tell them that his horses were in the woodlot, and while they were galloping over the lot in search of his mules he slipped away. His horses were in a woodlot, but not in that one. He searched the woods a long while that evening, in search of Pa, supposing that he was either killed or wounded. Evidently the Yankees thought he was killed. Brice's negroes were robbed, their houses having been entered, boxes broken open and money and valuables taken.

The day throughout has been cloudy, this evening a few flakes of snow fell: it is very cold.

Sabbath. This day has been clear but cold. This morning the ground was frozen and has not thawed today except where the sun shone on it. Ice has been abundant the whole day. I think this has been the coldest day of this season so far.

This morning was still very cold—tight—Uncle Billy and his company started back to Alabama early. The Yankees have scared them away. It was his intention to spend this winter with his Mississippi children, but his plans are now changed and he will spend the winter in Alabama. He is an old man to take such long rides. He will be 86 next March.

Rob't Richey was in this morning. Ham is again in camp at Clark's. A dispatch was received Saturday from Okolona which states that Bragg has fallen back to the old Chickamauga battle ground. There had been a fight. The enemy stormed our entrenchments. Bragg seeing that his left wing wavered fell back. I would call it “forced back.” Longstreet has captured Burnside and 7000 men. The balance of Burnside's army escaped.

This has been a pretty day throughout, much pleasanter than it has been, having greatly moderated. About 11 o'clock Mrs. Brice sent a negro girl over to request me and Pa to go over and assist in hunting for Mr. Brice, who unaccountably had disappeared last night. We went over, but when we got there, the old man was at home. It seems that about sundown last evening he, as he was coming to the house, saw 3 mounted men near his house in dark clothing and supposing them to be Yankee pickets he retired to the woods and lay out. Mrs. Brice was much alarmed, supposing that some evil had befallen the old man. All the neighbors and a detail from Ham's Battalion were searching for him. Have heard several rumors from the Yankees today, the most of which were false.

Sat awhile after breakfast at Uncle Young's, and then rode home. Everything has been still. I have seen very few passing and have heard no news, not a single item in reference to the war. John Martin was over a while this evening. From him learn that Captain Vandiver has gone to the Yankees. He used to be one of the strongest kind of Southern men. He was Lt. in the 23d when he deserted. So it goes—

This evening study some in view of a sermon for Sabbath. The time is so limited that I will not be able to make much preparation. Thompson went to Bates Tanyard today and at last got some leather. He brought me a letter from Jno. Young dated Missionary Ridge Nov. 16. At that time they had two lines of entrenchments and were building large forts. Houses and shelters had been constructed and our men seem to have fixed to stay there. But if the news we have had latterly be true, all this labor in lost. Tom also brought a Telescope of the 20th. The “Tel” will suspend at the close of the year.

This morning was clouded but this evening is fair. I have been busily engaged the whole day writing a sermon for tomorrow from 1 Timothy 1:18. My subject is the Christian warfare.

About noon Jo Phillips called at the gate to tell us that Yankees were at Ripley yesterday evening, and that it was reported they were at Stubbs' this morning. He heard this at Bartlett's Mill today.

Later in the day an old gentleman passed down the road who has been up near Saulsbury. He tells me that about a thousand Yankees were in Ripley yesterday but have gone back. Our Cavalry advanced up Wednesday to the R R. The Yankees fell back, cavalry to Pocahontas and the infantry were gathered about Middleton. Our people took Saulsbury and burned it Wednesday night. Ferguson camped near Saulsbury that night. Early the next morning the Yankees advanced upon them from towards Middleton. After a sharp fight for several hours our cavalry retired, and they have gone in a western direction. It is thought that Ferguson fought the Yankees to give Forrest time to get off some distance the other side of the R R. Our cavalry have gone west, but where or what for nobody knows. The Yankees say Bragg has been badly whipped and driven to Chickamauga and they think that he will not make a stand short of Dalton. Pate of Starkville here tonight, he in on his way below. He reports that Forrest has established his Head Qrs. at Jackson, Tenn, that he has 5 Brigades with him, forms a column 15 miles long, but I don't believe one word of it.

Sabbath. A clear and pretty day. Pate was off for Starkville after breakfast. Rode out to Bethany and heard Rev. J. L. Young preach from the latter clause of the verse of the 1st Chapt. of John “Come and see”. Bid Luther Richey goodbye as he leaves for Virginia tomorrow.

Rode on down to Ham's Camp and preached to a goodly number of soldiers in a grove in Clark's yard from 1 Tim. 1:18. Some asked me to make other appointments but I did not, as I have appointments for the 3 next Sabbaths.

As soon as preaching was through I rode up home, getting here about dark. The soldiers gave me good attention today, behaving well. There were some noisy, wicked men over in camp that did not come to hear. Heard some items on my rounds. Lee had a fight on the 29th somewhere on the Rapidan and whipped the enemy. A paper of the 3d is in Camp but I did not look at it. Bragg is said to be at Ringgold, though some say he is at Dalton. The Yankees are said to be falling back to Chattanooga, Bragg having offered fight. Hardee is said to have fought them near Ringgold and drove them back—a skirmish I suppose.

Our news in entirely verbal and not very satisfactory.

This has been a quiet day. It has been somewhat clouded especially this evening, cooler I think also. Tonight Margaret says it has sleeted some, but I did not think it was cold enough for that. Wrote a letter to Jno. F. Young and fixed a new bit to my bridle, and lolling have been my employments. Mary went over to Aunt Rilla's to assist her in finishing some clothing for William. Rosa goes with Uncle Young to Due West to attend the Female College. Mary went with her down to Uncle Young's tonight. Pa was down there this evening. He reports that Allen is back just from Corinth. The Yanks gave him and Allen's Willis a pass to come to Camp Davis but instead of going there they bushed home. He says nearly all the negroes there would come back to their masters if they were not afraid that they would be whipped and sold. He gives some intelligence in reference to the negroes from this country. Wess in dead, Lucy is also dead, and all her children but one. Martha & Haly are still there, Haly is cooking for some officers. Jim and Wash are teamsters, Holland's Tony is dead. Uncle Jo's Dick and George are in the army. All of Brice's men but Tom are in the army. One of Brice's women is almost crazy to get back home. I think that Allen's communications will cool the Yankee fever if any of the negroes have it. Pa heard that we had gained another great victory in Va, doubtless the same of which I heard yesterday. Bragg has also had a hard fight and driven the Yankees back from Chickamauga. Mr. Young will start in the morning with some of his negroes to South Carolina.

It was raining when I awakened this morning. Evidently during the night a good deal of rain fell. It ceased to rain soon after day but the day throughout has been dark & misty.

Mary came up from Uncle Young's, she says they left for S. C. this morning as determined. Jno. Galloway got back from Bragg's army last night. He was wounded in the arm in a skirmish above Ringgold—I suppose between Ringgold and Tunnell Hill—on the 27th He has a 30 days furlough. Tonight rode down with Margaret to stay with Laura. She sent to Galloways for some late papers, viz Augusta Constitutionalist of the 3d and News and Mississippian of the 5th. See today also Mobile News of the 27th and 28th. From these papers gather something definite in reference to the recent movement. The Battle of Chattanooga was fought the 25th. On the 24th we were dislodged from Lookout. On the 23rd there was a short engagement before Missionary Ridge. Our right under Hardee sustained it's position. The left under Breckenridge gave way, and the enemy getting up Missionary Ridge by an Enfilading fire threw our forces into confusion. Bragg exposed himself greatly, and finding he could not rally his troops, shed tears freely. Manigault's and Deas' Brigades first gave way. Wednesday our army retired to Chickamauga, pursued by Grant. It was a serious disaster. Our loss is 6000 and of artillery very heavy. Hardee's wing retired in good order. Cleburn's division was under him. Co. B 32d Miss. did not lose a man in the battle on Missionary Ridge, which some style the battle of Chattanooga. Cleburn formed the rear guard on the retreat and on friday morning made a stand S. of Ringgold and repulsed the enemy who retired towards Chattanooga obstructing the way. The main army by this time was at Dalton, and the pursuit being stopped by Cleburn's stand the army halted and Dalton is the Head Qrs of the army, the front extending to near Ringgold. On the 21st Bragg was at his own request relieved of his command, and Hardee was placed over the army temporarily. He now commands. Bragg has been abused wonderfully by the editors of the land and the people re-echo the same feeling, but there is no doubt that he is a brave, gallant and able general, who has done all that he could do.

John Mahon got home yesterday from Richmond. His sick leave of absence is indefinitely extended. Talk with Allen this morning. He says Jim and Wash are “citizens” living in the edge of Corinth and hauling for the government. They are eminent “citizens!”

Came up home with Margaret. Uncle Jo was at home last night. The Battalion will move today to Mooresville. There is 2000 bushels of Tax Corn gathered there and they are going down to eat it up.

The Legislature has appropriated $40,000. to rebuild the M & C. R. R. This is too good to be true. Gholson dispatched to Ham yesterday that our army is again on Missionary Ridge having driven the enemy into Chattanooga. I cannot credit the news, for it is very different from what the papers give us reason to expect. I only hope that it may be so.

I have nothing special to record for this. It has been cloudy all day, and damp. This is the third consecutive cloudy day. This evening it looked like it might clear, and tonight the stars are shining. Sam Mullinnix called soon after breakfast, and he rode with me on my way home as far as Willbanks'. Beaty has spent the day here. Rode up to Dickson's to see if he could come down tomorrow and spay some pigs for Pa. He will be otherwise engaged and cannot come before monday. He has heard that there was a sharp fight at Moscow, Tenn on last saturday. Col. Hovis was severely wounded near the knee. Some hundred or more Yankees were captured. He has no farther particulars except that Hovis had a horse killed under him. Hovis commands Falkner's Reg't and is under Chalmers. Chalmers went up with Forrest on the 1st, and this is the first I have heard from them since Ferguson's fight at Saulsbury on the 3d. Eight cavalrymen passed here while I was at Dickson's. No one spoke to them. I suppose they are “conscriptors.” McCandless called at the gate this evening. He has heare that 3 Regs of Cavalry have gone out towards Forrest's & our other cavalry.

Some Memphis traders got back Monday. They were not allowed to go to Memphis, being stopped 12 miles this side. They sold their cotton for 50 cts per lb. and got a little salt from some citizens and returned home. It is said there is much alarm in Memphis fearing that our cavalry will attack the place.

This day has been clouded but not rainy. The sun shone awhile and though warm it looks like it would clear up. Study Romans, finish the 3d Chapter. I have been hindered from this work for more than a week. Pa was over at Haddon's this morning. It is reported about Wallis' Tanyard yesterday that Forrest has sent down for our cavalry on the R R to go up to his assistance, but O'Shields knew nothing of it. It is probably not so. The day has been very quiet. I have seen no one passing along the road, and this is one day in which I have not heard a particle of news.

Rode over to Aunt M. J's and spent the night. Tonight is clear, but I can hear distant thunder occasionally. Uncle Jo was home a little while yesterday. He did not think they would move to Mooresville untill tomorrow. He spoke of coming up home again today, but as he did not come, it is probable they left today.

When I awaked this morning it was raining. Borrowing an umbrella I rode home through the rain immediately after breakfast. It rained on till 10 o'clock but the remainder of the day has been closely clouded and drizzly. It is very muddy under foot.

Study Romans some this morning. This evening some persons (viz Epting, Jho. Martin, & J. Nelson) were in and I have been chatting with them. Esq. Davis returned from Hardee's army yesterday evening. When he left the boys were at Chickamauga. Have no very definite news. It is said that Longstreet is retreating towards Va. and the Yankees are following him. A Mr. White from Verona told me that Longstreet had turned and was advancing upon Burnside. Gen. Lee having whipped the Yankees at Moscow on the 5th fell back to Holly Springs. Hear some of the results of the Moscow fight, but am not sure that I remember them. I think 140 Yanks were killed or drowned in Wold River, 40 prisoners were taken. Lee's loss thus far has been 18 or 19 Ham is still at Clark's. Saw some of Carpenter's men pass up this morning.

This morning is cool and clear, but before 10 it clouded and was raw and chilly all day. At Pa's request rode up on Dry Creek to take some corn to James Wallis and bring back some leather from his Tanyard. I took Wile along to drive the Waggon. We went via Ballentine's and Milty Bullock's. The Dry Greek vally is a prettier country than I had supposed. Delivered the corn, but obtained only 1 side of Sole leather and that was wet. On friday night last some one or ones (light fingered gentry) broke into his leather house and took from 17 to 20 Hides. He sent word to Pa to come up day after tomorrow and he would try to have leather for him.

As we returned came up Dry Creek to its head at Tomy Oven's and thence down Tishomingo via Nelson's. The vallies of these creeks are fertile and cultivated. On either side are towering hills, I might call them mountains, covered with lofty pines. The dividing ridge between Tishomingo and Dry Creek is very low.

Was chilled when I reached home a little before sundown. In the way of news I have heard I may say none.

This morning was clear and cold. In some of the “puddles” I noticed some ice. A heavy frost glistened in the sunshine. Rode to Uncle Young's, finding no one at home, I rode on to Galloway's hoping to see John but had gone to Mrs. Harwell's. Learn certainly that Ham's Battalion left their old Camp this morning and have gone below. I suppose they have gone to Mooresville, as that is the point to which it is rumored they would go. The departure of Ham so far South leaves this section without the semblance of protection. Call back by Uncle Young's, Laura had got back from her Uncle Frank's whither she had gone. They have received a letter from John dated Tunnel Hill Dec. 3. They had been there ever since the retreat. Cleburn's is called the brag division of Bragg's army. John apprehends that the Yankees will not let them stay long at Tunnel Hill.

The most observable fact to be noticed in reference to this day is its wet character. I have nothing to note in reference to the war, nothing from Okolona, Georgia or Virginia. But my notes this day concern the weather. When I awakened this morning about daybreak the rain commenced. I had intended returning home before breakfast, but did not start till near 10, about which time the rain slackened. I got a little wet as I rode home. The rain fell in showers. about noon, holding up for a few hours. But this evening we have had more rain than during the forenoon although it rained almost continuously the most of the morning.

Just about 1/2 after 4 it set in to rain “good” and rained heavily: the earth is covered with water. And tonight it is still pouring down heavily and continuously. The creeks will surely reach the highest water mark this time. There has been very little passing. Saw Dickson passing with his ox waggon up the road this evening. He was well soaked with the rain. No news of any kind today. I think that during this day there was not more than 2 hours when it was not raining continuously and steadily. When I lie down a little after 9 the rain had ceased, but it is still warm and clouded and although we have had floods we will probably have more yet.

Contrary to my expectations we had very little rain last night. This morning however was cloudy, and the day throughout has been closely clouded and cold. Almost the whole day we have seen floating flakes of snow in the air. As unpleasant as the day was I had to take a ride up to Wallis' Tanyard. I took Neil with me. Called at Miss Amanda Nelson's to get a coat cut. Went from there to Esq. Davis' and the next place I found myself was at Rhodes' on 20 mile creek. I had intended going to Parson Vandiver's but missed the way. Two young men, one of them John Brown, rode with me from Rhodes' to David Colston's, from thence I found the way easily to the Tan Yard. A good many leather hunters were there among them I noticed Sam Nelson, Wilson Bills, J. Epting, Gus Bryson, John Bryson &c. Leather is in great demand, and tanyards are places of public resort these times. I got 2 sides of upper leather and came back with Sam'l Nelson via Sailor's and Joseph Wallis'. Dined at Miss Amanda Nelson's. Got my coat, came on home getting here by 3 o'clock. The mule I rode (Ned) got away while at Miss Nelson's, but Sam'l loaned me his mule and I caught Ned at Hoskins' and then returned Nelson's mule. I endeavored to get leather for Uncle Jo and Aunt Rilla, but they cannot give a definite answer before next Wednesday. Rode over to Uncle Jo and spent the night in order to let them know my success in seeking leather for them. Understand that it has been reported above and below us that on Tuesday the Yankees were at Carrollville and Ellistown, but we know this to have been a false report. We have no news today.

This morning was very cold. Ice was to be seen wherever water was standing. The ground was frozen hard. Rode over home after breakfast. The day has been a very pretty one but cold, too cold to be comfortable except near a fire. In the shade the ground has not thawed during the day, the sun has had some power, and where the ground was exposed to his rays there has been a thaw. A north or northwest wind has been blowing all day rendering very uncomfortable out of doors.

Commence writing a sermon on Psa 130:4 and wrote three pages but finding that I had not time this week to write it as carefully as I would like I have deferred its completion to another week and will preach a sermon Psa 122:1 on Sabbath instead.

Mrs. Williams, daughter of Mrs. Lane, brought over some cloth they have been weaving for Mother's and “the galls” dresses this morning. They charge 33 1/3 cents per yard for weaving. There has been little or no passing and again I have to write that I have heard no news. Tonight Pa commenced reading “Mellichampe” by Simms. Mary told me tonight that Rosa told her some weeks ago that Cousin Dr. Enoch Agnew of Abbeville S. C. was dead. His sale came off this fall and he must have died some time ago. I had not heard it untill now.

Tonight is very cold, but very clear, the moonlight is beautiful.

We have no thermometer, but early this morning I thought it was the coldest we have had. Dickson came down this forenoon and has been spaying some shoats for Pa. I have been busily employed the greater part of the forenoon patching up my bridle. The day thus far has been clear and pretty. It is now after 1 o'clock and I am fixing to be off for Hopewell as soon as I can.

Started 1/4 to 2 o'clock. Just before I started a squad of cavalry belonging to Sanders' Battalion rode up, enquiring the way to Cal Billingslely's. I rode with them as far as Uncle Joseph's. Lt. Hoffman gave me some items of news. Grant has superseded Meade in Va. Longstreet has changed his base and now fronts Cumberland Gap. Hardee's army is at Chickamauga, and our pickets stand on Missionary Ridge. A Republican has been elected Speaker of the U. S. Congress: a measure looking to reconstruction is before that body. Hoffman reported Ham at Richmond. As my horse was lamed, rode a mule Nelly. Rode to James Caldwell's and spent the night. Old Mr. Bridgers was there. He is 76 years old and has been living in that neighborhood 21 years. The conscripting cavalry have been acting badly in Buncombe— abusing and frightening the women. At Gideon Haynie's a few weeks since they acted in a manner most censurable. Some think that the Yankees, bad as they are, are not as much to be dreaded as the 4th Mississippi cavalry. The last raid several of the citizens were captured by the Yankees, John Stone &c.

The evening was cold. My toes suffered during my ride. The day was clear and pretty.

This morning was hazy and cold, but I do not think as cold as it has been: it may be that I am getting more used to the cold weather and so do not feel it as sensibly as at the commencement of the cold spell. The day throughout has been clouded and looks like we might have rain or snow. A young Mr. Littrell was here this morning hunting corn for Glenn, who lives at the Rodgers place. He got none. He himself lives near Middleton Tenn. He says the Tories are worse on the citizens than the Yankees.

Notice in the papers that the 10th inst. was appointed a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer by the authorities of Ga, S. C. Ala. and Miss. We did not know it hereabouts and hence it was not observed. This has been a pretty, clear and pleasant day, throughout. And very quiet also. Came over home and have nothing special to note in reference to the employments of the day. Did study a little on Romans.

This evening with Mary rode down to Uncle Young's and spent the night. Mrs. Mary Bryson was there. Messrs. Robison & Neely brought the body of Silas Moore from Holly Springs whither it was taken from Moscow and interred and he was buried at Ebenezer on the 11th inst. Doc. Burriss is to marry Miss Anna Ball tonight at Cherry Creek.

We have no war news today—nothing from the Yankees and nothing from Okolona.

A letter was received from Jno. Young recently, dated Tunnel Hill Dec. 9. Entrenchments has been erected at the foot of the hill. Some of the soldiers had commenced building huts for winter quarters. John was agoing to wait untill it was more certain they would remain there before he would begin.

Came on home early with Mary. Pa and Erskine went to the Tan Yard. They got no leather for Aunts Rilla or Mary Jane. He got a small side for himself. He still owes Pa $150. Esq. Holmes was here this morning. He paid me $10.00 for tuition, $2.42 is still due me. The day has been raw and clouded. Early it looked like we would have another pretty day. But before 10 it clouded and remained closely clouded all day looking like it might snow. But tonight is clear and cool. Larkin over this evening. At Berry's Mill on yesterday he heard that the Yankees were at Orizaba. I have not heard a particle of reliable news today. Times are certainly very quiet with us, now.

This day has been a quiet and clear day. The morning was very frosty but the sun shone out pleasantly. I have been engaged the whole day writing a sermon on 1 Pet 4:7 for next Sabbath which is the last Sabbath of the year. Have written busily and now have just finished it near 10 o'clock tonight. My subject is the transitory character of all earthly things.

Pa has been complaining all day. He had colic this morning before day. He finished Mellichampe tonight. I have been so busy that I did not get to listen to the conclusion. A Mr. White from near Hatchie Turnpike passed this evening moving below. He had no news. Maj. Worthington has gone to Jackson Tenn. Forrest is up in West Tenn. but we have very little reliable from him. It is supposed he is attracting the attention of the Yankees because we have a calm down in our country. For several days we have had a very quiet time. News is very scarce. I may truly say we have none at all. Some persons would perhaps envy our situation. I heard a friend some time ago remark that he wished he could get into a hole, where he could hear nothing about the war. That is very much our fix now and for a week or so back, for today I have not heard an item of news.

The tread wheel was broken about noon. George and Thompson were at work on it this evening.

The first sound that greeted me this morning was the little negroes in the yard running about before light hollowing Christmas gift to the other negroes—Christmas has once more come with its joyous sports. The little chaps enjoy it wonderfully. I have remained at home the entire day, as usual eating my Christmas dinner at home. And although the times are “hard” Mother had provided a good dinner for us. Several dined with us, viz Sam'l McGee, Larkin, Anna & Maggie Agnew. A poor soldier (32nd Miss) who has lost an arm (named Brock, who lives near Parson Scally's) called this morning wanting a “lift” on the road home. He is weak, having been furloughed last Saturday from the Fair Ground Hospital of Atlanta for 60 days. Pa sent him on a mule to Mr. Armor's. Wiley went along to bring the mules back. Jno. Martin and Johny and Claudius Nelson were here a while this evening. These were our visitors for the day. Early heard some big Christmas guns but not many.

Have some news. Mr. Brock gave Pa a Mississippian of the 20th from which I have gleaned some items. The Yankees have made a raid on the Tennessee Railroad at Salem Va, west of Lynchburg. Some trussells were destroyed and Longstreet's supply route cut. From Longstreet see nothing very definite. On the 14th there was a battle (not general) at Bean's Station in which the Yankees were driven towares Knoxville. From Bragg's army see nothing in the paper except that a reported raid towards Athens, Ga. was unfounded.

From Texas see that Banks is gaining a lodgement in the state having and holding Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Aransas Post and Matagorda. This was in November and Banks is having much more success than I had heard of. In the U. S. Congress F. Wood had introduced a resolution directing the Pres. to appoint 3 Commissioners to negotiate a peace &c. The resolution was tabled by a large majority. This proposal would have resulted in nothing, for they looked to a restoration of the Union, but the U. S. Congress plainly declares they do not want peace now, and are not willing to make such propositions. Mr. McGee tells me Dr. Ford returned from the Georgia army yesterday. He reports them going into winter quarters at Dalton, a portion of the army is at Tunnel Hill fortifying: an attack of the enemy is looked for at Tunnel Hill. Gen. Jo. Johnston has gone on to assume the command of the army, and doubtless commands now in place of Hardee. Heard that it was reported this morning that the Yankees were up on 20 mile Creek, but as I have heard nothing more suppose it was a false report. McGee tells me he heard yesterday that the cavalry are moving up. They are certainly at work on the R. R. repairing to Tupelo at least. The day has been cloudy. Tonight a heavy mist is falling and we have the prospect of a wet night, Pa is reading The Message from the Sea tonight. It is a Christmas Story by Charles Dickens.

This forenoon has been cloudy and misty, this evening bids fair to be no better. It is still cloudy and looks rain-like.

Mr. A. W. Beaty came over this morning and has been spending the day chatting with Pa. I have not as yet heard an item of news. It was my intention to have gone to Hopewell this evening. The mule Ned was at the gate saddled, and I was nearly ready to start when S. McGee came up with intelligences which altered my plans. He was just from Siddall's on Twenty Mile and reports that the Yankees are coming again. Before 11 o'clock they were crossing the Creek, but their numbers and destination is unknown, It is supposed they are advancing down to this section again. They camped at Blackland last night.

With the mules go to the bushes, Wile, Neil, Ebb and Erskine with me. The whole evening has been dark and threatening but no rain. Tonight a heavy mist is falling. We have a tent made of quilts. We have comfortable quarters in the bushes. over at Martin's late in the evening after fire. He had no later news than we have.

This morning is cooler but still cloudy. A family (Kitchens) from near Jumpertown were at Lyons gin house last night. They are moving down to the Country east of Columbus.

White frost this morning. There was a party lasting the whole night at Mrs. Harwell's friday night. Mrs. Holley gives a party tonight. Parties seem to be in fashion this Christmas.

Sat awhile after breakfast, and after hearing Mary & Laura perform on the piano, came up home. We had lots of company last night. Margaret was at Jno. Martin's yesterday, Lou McGee came home with her. Erskine was at Aunt Rilla's, Melly and Howard came home with him. Willie and Calvin Young were also here, and the little follows had a fine time of it, I suppose.

Sabbath. This morning I think it has moderated some— though there is still ice to be seen almost everywhere. The day has been cloudy throughout. Early in the day it sleeted considerably, almost whitening the ground. Some rain fell with the sleet and froze as it fell. The sleet after a few hours changed to rain, and the day has been rainy. This evening I rode over to Uncle Joseph's and find the top of the ground thawed a few inches by the water. The water which has fallen on the leaves which, though dead, still cover the bushes, has frozen and long pendant drops of ice present a beautiful appearance. This truly has been an inclement sabbath. I have remained at home having no appointment, and knowing of no preaching in the country. Read Calvin Institutes. Today I have been reading on the slavery of the Will. This is a deep and difficult subject which I have never investigated much. Calvin's positions seem scriptural. I think if I have an opportunity I will read Edwards on the Freedom of the Will.

Rode over to Uncle Jo's to take some letters to him to mail for me at Mooresville. Have heard very little. Some movers passed this morning who told Pa that Jeff Davis has resigned the presidency and gone to France and also that England and France have given the U. S. & C. S. 90 days to make peace, and if they cannot do it in that time they will do it for them. But I regard both reports as improbable. From some soldiers Uncle Jo learned that Forrest was at Holly Springs. He has 600 Yankee prisoners, 50 (1 think) waggon loads of Bacon and 500 Beaves

Last night was very rainy and this morning is foggy and a heavy mist is falling. Consequently Uncle Jo did not go to Camp. It looks as if it were almost impossible to have the N E M letter mailed soon. I left it and others with him to take down when he goes. Came over home after breakfast. The day has been drizzly, dark and cool throughout. There is a thaw for a few inches, but not through the frozen crust, consequently it is very muddy. A heavy mist has been falling all day.

Walk down to Watson's after dinner to get some powder for Pa. Have been lying about the house not doing much of moment. Rode down to Uncle Young's and spent the night. He is not home yet. His delay is mysterious. No one here knows what is keeping him, so long. Miss Jane Young was there. Hear the particulars of a mysterious or rather strange affair which occurred near Chesterville on the 24 or 25th ulto. A Miss Boling was addressed by two suitors, Lt. Jeter of the 12th Miss. and Lt. Atkins of the 2nd Tenn. and she accepted them both. Jeter first asked the consent of her parents, which was granted, and the wedding day was set. Atkins came on the same business but was told that he was too late, but to come on a certain night (the wedding night) and all would be explained. The time came, Jeter was married to Miss Boling. Atkins came in after the knot was tied, and everything was as merry as a marriage bell untill 9 o'clock when Atkins left and the bride of Jeter riding with him behind. Atkins took her to Okolona and after 3 days she returned and now is about suing for a divorce from Jeter so she may marry Atkins. She is a I must say unprincipled woman. It is a strange circumstance. Verily truth is stranger than fiction. There is no news except that Forrest is at Holly Springs, and that he has torn up 20 miles of the M &C R R.

Tonight is misty and very, dark, growing cooler too I think. Last friday morning the thermometer stood 8 degrees below zero. It is I think as low as I remember to have heard of it in this latitude. I suppose we will have to regard New Years day as one of the famous cold days.

The surface of the ground was whitened by a fall of hard snow this morning, which fell during the night, perhaps in the latter part of the night. By 10 o'clock it cleared and the remainder of the day was beautifully clear but it was cold throughout the day and thawed very little.

This morning the meat was salted away and I have no doubt was a cold business. John Martin came over and sat till after dinner when he and I walked down to Uncle Young's to see if he was at home. It was a long walk, longer than I have taken in several years. I was not anxious but John Martin insisted and I went, and as it was too cold to ride I walked. Uncle Young has not got back yet. I fear that something serious is detaining him. His family do not seen uneasy.

Cut some cane to make pipe stems for Ma and brought them home as I came back. Uncle Jo here this evening. He does not expect to go down to Camp before friday. He keeps putting off and putting off and my W E M letter will have a long passage but I cannot help it. I think it doubtful whether he gets off even on friday. Holland got a letter from A C Hawthorn monday. Benton Hawthorn is dead. He was wounded and captured at Gettysburg. His leg was amputated but he died. Wash is in bad health. Uncle William Agnew is at Charleston in the army.

It is still cold this morning and clouded. The clouds had a whitish appearance and looked very snow-like, but we have had no snow. About dark one or two little “skifts” of sleet fell. Being cloudy the whole day there was no thaw and it has been quite cold. This being the case I have sat about the fire and this evening have been looking through the Mississippi House of Representatives Journal for 1859. This was interesting to me. Among the mass of rubbish which it contains there are some things of interest.

We have no news today. Indeed I may say we have had none for a week. The weather is so cold that there are very few passing, and hence there is very little news current. Pa thinks he never in his life saw so severe weather continue for so long a time. He has seen as cold weather but it never lasted more than a few days, while this cold snap has lasted 8 days and still cold. Tonight is still clouded and the prospect seems favorable for a fall of sleet or snow. Quietness prevails in the country: not the slightest rumor disturbs the calm. If Uncle Young has returned we have not heard it. Pa apprehends that something serious detains him. I hope not.

This has been a clear but cold day. To look out in the sunshine looked pleasant, but when I went out I thought it very cold. Some soldiers (3) furloughed from the 6th Tennessee Reg stopped before dinner and dined here. One was from Madison, another from Fayette, and another from Hardeman Co. They are footing it home, having left Dalton on the 2nd inst. Everything is quiet thereabout, both armies being in winter quarters. One of these men had Appeal of the 4th & Mobile News of the 6th. Glance at them. See that Brig. Gen. Forrest has been promoted to Maj. General. He is now at Panola having fallen back to that point from Holly Springs. He brought out 3000 recruits. He arrived at Jackson, Tenn. Dec. 4 and commenced recruiting vigorously. On the 22 and 23 he fought the Yankees on Jack Creek above Jackson. In falling back he had a fight at Somerville. Captured Lafayette and drove the enemy to their hole in Collierville. His future movements are not known. I believe from what I see that he left Tenn. because the Yankees got too hot for him. In Va. everything is quiet. Longstreet is in winter quarters in E. Tenn. About Charleston the Feds have some new movements on hand but they have not develloped them yet.

Rode up to Col. Kennedy's this evening. Surprised to find Dry Creek and Tishomingo frozen across, the ice is very thick: in some places sufficiently thick to sustain the weight of a horse and rider. See Dr. Lewellin at Kennedy's. He thinks he saw ice in 20 mile Creek 5 in. thick. Col. K. thinks that it is so cold that no congregations would come to Lebanon: therefore I have suspended my appointments there.

Came on back home. Erskine had been to Mr. Young's and reports him home. He was sick 2 weeks in So. Ca. Aunt Sarah came back with him. She stopped for a few days at Crawfordville. Mr. Young brought several letters. I rec'd one from Jno. Agnew dated Dec. 26. Mrs. Jane Cowan has died of Pneumonia and was buried on Christmas day. John will start to the army on the 4th inst. Iva did not come with Mr. Young. Mr. Hawthorn wrote to Pa. Uncles William and White are at Charleston in the 6 months State troops. They went out on the 13th Sept. Perry is at Branchville guarding the R R, Harkness and Johns are on the coast. Erskine reports that Uncle Young is still unwell. The negroes got a letter from old Anthony giving a good deal of negroe news.

Sabbath. This morning was clouded and cool. About 10 o'clock it cleared up and the day has been clear and pretty. I have remained at home, having no appointment of my own. Read Calvin Institutes. Also this evening glance at some articles in Buck's Theological Dictionary,

Tonight got Mother to rub some Citron ointment on a ringworm on my neck. This ointment has already been applied several times but has not killed it as yet. The weather is moderating. The recent cold spell has been severe. I broke some ice in the Brickyard branch this morning which was 3 1/2 inches thick, and I have no doubt but that it is thicker in some places. It will sustain the weight of many persons. This is an unusual circumstance in this country.

Fair and pleasant. Looks like it might cloud. Pa, Ma and all the family but Margaret and myself went down to Mr. Young's and spent the day. Resumed my critical studies today and thus principally employed. Mrs. Thos. Davis was here this forenoon to get medical advice from Pa in reference to her husband. Bradbury was also here hunting horse collars. There was none here for him. George B. is to make him some soon.

Rode down to Uncle Young's tonight. The ice in the branch near Mrs. Mahon's was thick, I had some difficulty in getting Jimmie over it. It was very slick and he came near falling.

Hear several items from Due West. Uncle Fred occupies the Academy house in front of Bonner's. The Bonner house is occupied by J. P. Kennedy. Bonner lives in a building opposite the College gate. Archer has moved to Abbeville. C. H. Galloway has gone out in the country having rented his place to some one. Louis B. Wiley is there portrait painting. He stays at Mrs. Lindsays. Fed Nance is Assistant Enrolling officer at Charleston. Moffatt Grier is studying Theology. Several Charleston refugees now live in Due West. Uncle Y. did not get to Laurens. He spent the Sabbath and preached for James M. Young at Prosperity Ala. as he came back home. Chief Justice John Belton O'Neall died on the 27th ulto. An attack is expected on Savannah now every day. See that Wirt Adams commands the Brigade of Posey who was mortally wounded recently at Bristol, Va. This is the Brigade in which the 19th Miss is. Dr. J. Murry Rogers has charge of the Hospital at Selma Ala.

Foggy this morning. Rode over home after breakfast. The fog disappeared about 10 o'clock, and this evening has been clear and pleasant. Wrote a letter to Jno. F. Young this evening. A party of cavalry (Bogan's men) called this evening at the gate. They are hunting John Bishop; Bish is undoubtedly a hard case. The conscriptors have apprehended him several times but he always manages to get away from them. He is a deserter from Orr's Reg't. He is a hard case undoubtedly. These men went on, I think they expect to watch for him tonight. Norton and Seals were in the crowd. Norton tells me that Jettie Richey got home last night from Ham's Camp. He reports that on Saturday next they will reorganize the whole “shebang” in pursuance of Gov. Clark's orders. In reorganizing they enlist for 2 years. This I know will go against the grain with some of the men. Norton also told me that they are working on the Railroad but working very slowly, doing something, but making very little progress towards completion.

We have another foggy morning—the third consecutive one this week. About 10 as usual it cleared away and the evening was bright and pleasant. Late in the evening it clouded and about dark it rained a little. Tonight is cloudy, and I think we will have rain, before morning. Mrs. Davis was here this morning consulting Pa in reference to her husband.

This evening rode over to Brice's to leave some letters to be mailed. Hear that the Yankees were at Kelly's Mill this morning by thousands. Three cavalry men should have informed Mrs. Brice. I think I may almost say that I know it is a false report. It seems that every source of information brings us intelligence that Corinth is heavily reinforced. Mr. Lawrence was at Simmons night before last. He says there are more Yankees now at Camp Davis than ever have been & they have commenced again to fortify that point. He expresses the opinion from what he can see that there will be a raid down in this country in 3 or 4 days. The State troops were paid off yesterday or a few days ago, and tomorrow are to be mustered into the Confederate service at Richmond. It looks to me like they were gradually withdrawing our troops from this part of the country, leaving us to the tender mercies of the Yankees who now again threaten us. Capt. J. L. Kennedy reached home from Bragg's army last night, he expects to start back on the 25th inst. The conscriptors (Bogan's men) caught Jno. Bishop last night. They were also at Brown's “cutting up” I understand.

Commence tonight writing a sermon on Prov: 3:6. Have not yet finished the introduction. Tonight is showery, I expect we will have a wet night.

Contrary to my expectations we had very little rain last night. Early there was some appearance as if it would cloud but the day has been fair and pleasant. Have been engaged every spare moment an my sermon: finished it tonight. John Galloway called before dinner and sat till after 3 o'clock this evening. He had been up to see Lee Kennedy and had a few items. Craig has returned to the company and looks well. Hardee married lately at Montgomery or Selma. Dr. Tom Miller has reached home from Yankeeland. He was captured at Lookout Mountain in Sept. He was the Adj't of Benton's Reg't in Walthall's Brigade. He escaped from his captors a short distance this side of his destined prison by stepping off the cars just at dark. From there he wended his way towards home, which he finally reached after many hair-breadth escapes. His arrival no doubt gladdened his wife and child. Lee Kennedy reports that nothing is being done on the R. R. It is wonderful how many lies have been told about the R. R. The object must have been to encourage the people and soldiers but such things have a bad effect at last. Lee Kennedy expects to return on the 26th.

There are no military movements of importance now. Longstreet at Knoxville came off from the attack with 1/3 of his men only. This if so was a very heavy disaster. He and his officers cried like babies when they saw they were defeated. Was much entertained by Galloway's narrations of his campaigns and the incidents at the engagements at Mumfordsville, Perryville, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge and Ringgold. Perryville & Chickamauga were the severest on the 32nd Mississippi.

Sabbath. The morning was cloudy and threatening. At Church there was a respectable turnout notwithstanding the character of the day. Preached from Prov. 3:6. Before service was through it commenced raining and the entire evening was rainy. So wet that I did not come up home as usual. Dine at J. O. Snipes and sat untill 4 o'clock when I rode through the rain to Wiley's and spent the night. Understand that Samuel Black is home from Bragg's army, I hear he looks stout and hearty.

In the way of news there is very little below. They have, like us, the news that the Yankees above us have been strongly reinforced. I expect that Forrest has drawn them here.

Maj. Wiley had us up long before day, and prayers and breakfast was through some time before daylight. He had mistaken the hour. When I lay down it was rainy, but the rain did not continue long after I went to sleep. Walk'd with the Maj. to his Mill about daybreak. Find a considerable raft of logs and trash lodged against the Mill. The Maj. worked faithfully for a hour or two and got the raft floated through. Finally he got the Mill started. David West came in. I sat about some hours waiting for the waters to fall. About 9 started home. Found all the Creeks full—flush. The roads were very muddy. Find Camp Creek impassible and had to come up by the Bridge. Got my feet wet crossing some branches. It gradually grew colder and colder and my wet leggings were as stiff as a board. Stopped at Brown's and warmed. Got home by two o'clock. I had a cold, unpleasant ride. Before day there was a light fall of snow whitening the ground in some places. Occasionally I saw a flake fall as I came on home, but about 2 o'clock it commenced in good style and snowed till night. And the ground now is perfectly white. It stopped before dark. Saw Capt. Daisy and E. Seals passing above as I got home. Gave Seals my note to Robison and also the Telescope containing the Minutes. Jno. Haddon, Uncle Jo & family were here. Uncle Jo got home yesterday evening. They reorganize Wednesday. Ham is camped 5 miles below Richmond on the Cotton Gin road. He has no news, only they say the Rail Road is being built up. Anna and Maggie are here tonight. Understand that Uncle Young is still complaining a good deal. Rec'd 20 dollars from Wily for preaching last year.

This [day] has been bright, clear and beautiful. The snow which mantled the earth soon vanished under the rays of the sun. It has been very muddy, owing to the thaw, which has taken place. Pa and Erskine walked down to Uncle Young's this forenoon: he is better. Three gentlemen dined here today. They were soldiers, members of the 10th Tennessee, Dibbrell's Brigade, Wheeler's cavalry. These gentlemen live in Williamson county. One lived in Davidson. They were sent home after clothing, and are now making their way back to the army, having come through West Tennessee. They have had many perils by the way. From West Tenn. they came with Newsome's men through the lines, Newsom is going to join Forrest at Panola.. The Yankees are strung above us now. A few days ago 12000 cavalry attached to Sherman's corps arrived from Middle Tennessee at LaGrange. Forrest has drawn them to this country. In Middle Tenn, they are everywhere, doing what they please. The people are required to take another oath in addition to the one formerly administered. They patroll the Tennessee River regularly. The two gunboats passed the day they crossed. They got a pirogue and swam their horses across the river one of those cold days. On New Years day in Williamson they had a snow 6 inches deep. Some of the Yankee cavalry came from Franklin to reinforce the M & C line. Several Yankees froze to death on the way, having had to come during severely cold weather. At Jackson, Tenn. they eat the people out, they took their horses into the fine stores and fed them in the drawers. They have the rumor that Lincoln has proposed an armistace of 6 months to Davis. Davis agrees provided Federal troops are withdrawn from Confederate territory. They also hear that a new cartel had been agreed upon by which white men are exchanged for white men and negroes when captured may be returned to their masters. I doubt the truth of both these rumors. Granger commands at Nashville. Pa heard today that France has had a naval brush with the Federals in the gulf of Mexico recently—this is questionable. I have done very little having been dull and stupid owing I suppose to cold. There has been very little passing during the day.

Mr. Brice passed up to Robison's this morning. He will not go by McAllister's consequently I will have to take my watch myself as soon as I can go up, which will not be this week now. The day has been clear and pleasant but muddy underfoot owing to the thaw.

I rode over to Aunt Rilla's this evening, owing to the softness of the ground it was hard getting along for my mule Nelly. Did a little on my critical studies. The 17th v of 4th Chapt. Corinthians gives me difficulty and I have not yet satisfactorily solved it.

Messrs. Littrell and Fort came here today hunting corn. Corn is in great demand and I fear that some who are destitute will not be able to supply themselves. Pa has none to spare. He thinks somebody has been taking corn from his crib within a week. Prices are high and some are extortionate. Gen. M. F. Berry has sold his corn crop and gone South. His prices were $6.00 in Confederate currency, $1.00 in greenbacks and 50 cts. pr Bushel in specie. His conduct, being as he is a Confederate official, is generally censured. The distillers are using a heap of corn and selling spirits at $20.00 pr gallon, they can afford very easily to give $5.00 or more for a Bushel of corn.

The day is very quiet, there being no war news of any kind. Capt. Tom Rowan of the 19th Miss. is home on furlough. W. S. Agnew is now 1st Lieut. of his company. They are in winter quarters about Orange C. H. Understand that the armistace of 6 mos. has been before the U. S. Congress, a bill in regard to it passed the lower house but was laid on the table in the upper. This I regard as killing it. Some think we will have an armistace though, but on this subject I am incredulous. It is said that a New York Statesman has brought up 5 charges against Lincoln as having broken the U. S. Constitution. But I have generally found that verbal items are unreliable.

Pa had an attack of pain in the bowells this morning— perhaps the colic—and complained a good deal, but a dose of morphine relieved him. Immediately after breakfast I commenced working on my saddle and got it pretty well patched up by 1/2 after 9 o'clock.

After breakfast rode over home. Uncle Young preached at Bethany yesterday. Saw Capt. White passing the road. He told me that the Yankees had landed 12 miles from Mobile and yesterday he was told by a Maj. Parker the Yankees were shelling the city. The non-combattants had been sent out of the city and it is feared that the Federals will succeed in taking the place. White also told me that Ham and Lowry had started westward, but turned back at Pontotoc. This does not agree with what I heard yesterday.

After dinner I rode up on Tallahatchie to Mr. McAllister's to get him to do some repairing on my watch. Met Mrs. Berry and Mrs. Hodges above Berry's. As McAllister could not do my work this evening I rode back to Berry's and spent a very pleasant night with the Colonel and his family. He is a very friendly man. Sat up late talking in various subjects but mostly of a religious nature. The Yankees were at Ripley thursday and friday. 2 Regiments passed through friday from Corinth going westward. Sherman commands the large cavalry force which has gone down the Central Road after Forrest. He has had all the shops in Memphis pressed to shoe their horses preparitory to the raid. Col. Berry returned last week from a visit to Macon & Enterprise. He reports the M & C R R as being certainly rebuilt. He was told that in 8 work days it would be complete to Saltillo.

Up very early and breakfasted by sun up. Sat and talk awhile. Col. B. gave me a Mobile News of the 20th to bring home to my father. Rode back to McAllister's, he soon finished the repairs on my watch— mending the chain—and paying his charge of $1.00 I rode on homewards. At L. Brown's a squad (4) of cavalry came up and halted me as I was riding off, and Reid the commander spoke to me in a rough and brusque manner. Asked why I was not in the army and on my telling him he seemed to disbelieve me—asking for evidences. I had nothing but some sermons along with me. These he looked at, and finally in a seemingly reluctant manner admitted the truth of my answers. I was somewhat ruffled by his evident imputations of falsehood to me. I rode on with them to my home. Reid appologized to me for his brusque mode of address. He seems a clever man—very contrary to my first impressions about him. He belongs to the 4th Miss. and is from Winston County—a member of the O. S. Pres. Church, Rev. Peden being his Pastor. He told me that yesterday he heard that Mobile had surrendered to the Yankees. He believes that reported raid west of us is a “ho-ax”. He takes a dispondent view of public affairs and thinks we are whipped.

Do nothing this evening. Take a nap as I hardly slept enough last night. Hoskins was here awhile late this evening. Reid reports that it is certain that the R R will be finished up to Saltillo in a very short time. He thinks the cars are at Tupelo by this time, but expresses the opinion that the cars will not run up in this country 60 days before the Yankees come down and tear up the R R. I hear that the Yankees are still at Corinth—the evacuation rumor to the contrary notwithstanding. They were reported at Ripley yesterday but on Tallahatchie I heard nothing of it, and it is probably false. Both yesterday and today have been beautifully clear, and very pleasant days.

After breakfast started home, came by the Cross Roads. Learn that the reported raid down the Central road was all a hoax. We have some troops at Hernando, on Sabbath last Forrest was still there in quietness.

Came on home accompanied by F. Dickson from the Cross Roads. Find at home a letter from N E M accepting me. She assures me that she will certainly do all in her power and with the greatest pleasure to add to my happiness. In express words she tells me she has placed her affections on me &c. This has furnished food for pleasant thoughts the entire day.

The recent evacuation of Corinth is joyful intelligence to this section. It frees us from the roguish Yankees and the people are elated at the good news. Though some fear that some new expedition is on hand which will inflict greater damage upon the Confederacy. The Rail Road is being built up rapidly and things are assuming a more cheerful phaze in this portion of country than they have had lately. The day has been fair but smoky.

Larkin came over early this morning and reported that 4 of their mules were stolen last night. I rode over, and endeavored to aid in ascertaining which way the mules had been taken, but learned nothing certain. I found a track leading from the lot, a zigzag way through the woods to the ford in Camp Creek. Dock found 2 near Watson's this forenoon: it is probable that only 2 were stolen. My feet were made very sore by my walk. Horse theiving is becoming a serious nuisance in our country. Watson had 2 stolen Sabbath night. Eddington had one stolen night before last, and Uncle Jo 2 last night. The Yankees have left us but the horse theives are still among us doing serious damage. Aunt M. J. thinks the notorious John Bishop is concerned in her misfortune but it is only conjectural. I dined there (at Aunt M. J's) today. Holland was here this morning hunting beeves for Ham's Battalion. They are now camped on Chiwoppa 2 miles below Shannon on the R. R. Uncle Jo is sick. Holland had no news except the rumor that the Yankees design holding the M C R R as their line and work the Miss. Bottom in cotton. I think it more probable that the troops have gone from Corinth to reinforce the Fed. army on the Gulf. Nothing certain is known, however.

Tell Pa this evening my matrimonial purpose. The day has been mostly clouded—and looks like we would soon have rain.

We had rain this morning. It commenced a little after 4 o'clock and the day has been clouded, though the sun did shine out a little this evening. Have done very little. Finish 4th Chapt. of Romans in my critical studies. This evening penned a note to Mrs. E. M. asking her consent, also wrote to N E M acknowledging hers and asking her to fix the time. Tell Ma my designs, I think both my parents are pleased. Thus engaged almost the whole evening. Pa went over to the Congregational (annual) meeting at Bethany. Henry Branyan was elected trustee. Some troops went up this morning to Corinth. They camped at Copeland's, it was reported they camped at Brice's but this was a mistake. The troops were Barteau's Reg and Gholson's forces. They, it is thought, design going west from Corinth as far as they can and tear up the M & C R R. Our men are much elated and think the Yankees did not leave Corinth from choice but from necessity. It is reported that Price has captured Little Rock, Ark. cutting the Federal army there to peices. Also that Magruder is threatening Banks with a superior numerical force. Two thirds of Banks army are negroes, and he is calling loudly for reinforcements. If these reports be true they account for the evacuation of Corinth. It is now thought that this country is safe, that the Yankees will no more trouble us. May it be so.

A Mr. Lisenbe from the vicinity of Corinth passed this evening going to Simanoe's. He has heard that the Yankees have passed Grand Junction burning everything up as they went. Frank Branyan was here this evening. His broken leg is healing up. Barteau took with him his waggons trains and it is supposed they design remaining in the Corinth country. It is understood the enemy still have gunboats up in the Tenn river.

The Rail Road was completed to Tupelo yesterday. Things surely have assumed a more cheerful phaze in this part of the country. A burden has, by the goodness of God been removed from our people's shoulders.

This morning was pleasant and this day has been clear throughout and cooler than some days we have had latterly. Frank Branyan, Tom Pannel and Aunt Rilla were in this morning. Pannel told me that he understood that Gen. Chalmers' command had been ordered to Jackson. It looks like all the soldiers will be ordered from this country to the vicinity of Jackson. These things to my mind indicate that the Yankees having left here have gone to that part of the state.

This evening and also a part of the morning I was ridding up the papers on my mantle piece and in my table drawer. Walk over to Aunt M. J's and spend the night. She is keeping her mules tied in the back yard since the theives visited her lot. Last night seven of her chickens were taken from her coop. Since the Yankees have left we have quieter, pleasanter times than we had. People pass along the roads as in the olden times, and are not inquiring if there are any Yankees about.

Came over home after breakfast. We have a white frost this morning. Like yesterday this has been a pretty day, like it too it has been very quiet. This evening has been blustry, and the day throughout has been cooler than we have had recently. Do a little in my critical studies. Henry Branyan and his son Todd were here for dinner. They were sheep hunting. Branyan heard that the cars were at Saltillo yesterday, but I think this doubtful. This I believe is the only news, doubtful as it is, which I have heard today. Truly these days are quiet days. Read some in the first volume of Harper's Weekly this evening. Tonight have some citron ointment rubbed on my neck to put an end to my ring- worm. My last rubbing nearly killed it, and this one will put an end to it.

This day I have done nothing of any importance—having felt listless, and disinclined for anything. This evening read Harper's Weekly Vol. 1. Old Mr. Ballentine was here this morning hunting sheep. There has been some passing, but no one whom I have spoken to had any news. Jones, Ham's beef hunter, is in the neighborhood, gathering up the beeves Holland has engaged. The three young men Robinson, Swindle and Lowry who were here sabbath night are back again tonight. They belong with Rory's company, and this company not being with Ham now they return home. They got here an hour after night. They are not the kind of Characters who could gather much news. They hear they are expecting a fight down of Big Black. Holland told me this evening that Inge has been ordered to Columbus. Some other troops have been ordered to Macon. Now the talk is that the Yankees contemplate a move towards Meridian from Vicksburg &c.

The day has been pleasant. This evening and tonight is clouded and appearances indicate rain. Pa is complaining more than usual tonight and is quite hoarse. He discovered this morning that the theives have taken a peice of iron from the smithshop. We know that our stolen wheat went through the lane. In the old wood lot Margaret saw a quantity which had been spilled as they were carrying it away.

It rained before day this morning. The day throughout has been cloudy and cool. Holland came over early with 3 cavalry men and drove off 2 of our old poor cows for beef cattle for Ham's battalion. He receipted for 540 lbs. at 20 cts pr lb. The three lads who lodged with us last night were off for their homes early. Dave Humphreys and one of his sisters passed this evening from the direction of Ripley. It has been reported that the Yankees were leaving Memphis, but Humphreys says this is not the case. Their nearest post to us is either at Germantown or Colliersville. The movements and purposes of the Yankees are envelloped in mystery. Memphis is closely guarded and no admittance allowed. It is said that they start boats with soldiers down to the river in daylight but at night they turn their course and go up the river. We had a report just of this kind last year. I think that time will show that they are sending a heavy force down the river, to Vicksburg perhaps.

Read Ryan's Mysteries of Love, Courtship and Marriage, which is particularly interesting to me just now. The subject engrossed so much of my thoughts that I find myself indisposed to study.

The girls have been laying the yard in walks &c today.

Dr. Simmons is assessing and impressing—meat and beeves. He learns the quantity of pork killed—then after the 10th or tithes are taken out, he impresses all over 150 lbs to each person of the family large & small, black and white. We have not the 150 lbs to each member of the family consequently from us they get only the Tithes in meat. Of cattle they take 1 out of every 8 head large and small. This is a pretty heavy draw. They pay 30 cts. pr lb for beef. He is herding at Brice's and the cattle are to be delivered on the 11th at that place. He takes 2 of our cattle. Holland got 2 saturday and Simmons counts them in our assessment. This morning in winding my watch I broke the chain again, I am truly unfortunate McAllister's work seems to have no stability. Such occurrences do vex me “mightily” but what can't be cured must be endured.

Frank Young was here at the gate awhile this evening. He had been sheep hunting. He tells me the theives have been at work in his neighborhood. A horse was stolen at old Mr. Betts' friday night. Sam Bryson lost a mule last night. Old Mr. Keyes found one of his stolen horses tied out in the Buncombe hills. Theiving has become almost a nightly occurrence, nothing is safe except under a lock and key, and sometimes not even then. No one knows who the villians are.

This evening Pa and I have been sketching a plan for a flower yard. This the principle employment of the evening.

The day has been clear and pretty.

The flower yard was the first matter up this morning. Pa and the girls have chosen Pa's draft, I thought mine was preferable, but many men of many minds.

Mr. Francis Young and Mrs. Nancy Moore came up this morning. Mr. Young left Nancy here and went up into the hills sheep hunting. Mr. Young hears that Longstreet has given Burnside an awful whipping in East Tennessee some time lately. He has no particulars in reference to time or locality—nothing except that Longstreet has captured 15000 prisoners. Also it [is] said that three blocks in Memphis was burnt lately by refugee tories and negroes who were brought into the city on the evacuation of Corinth. Mr. Young returned from his sheep excursion about noon. He was unsuccessful. They sat and chatted with us till 4 o'clock when they returned home. Was surprised that at the party at Mrs. Turner's on the 29th ulto. they danced the whole night. At Andrew Crockett's, who lives at the Len Harwell place, they have recently had 2 dance parties. The present seems an unsuitable time for such things, and it surprises me to know that persons of whoom better things are expected tolerate, countenance and engage in, dancing. Christians are enjoined “Be not conformed unto the world.”

The morning was clouded, but they soon disappeared and the day has been mostly clear and pleasant.

This morning, as was yesterday, was cool and frosty. The day has been clear and beautiful. The sky was a deep blue, and perfectly clear and rarely have I ever seen a more beautiful day. The day has been very quiet and there has been little passing. The girls have been engaged on their flower garden, Liz and Elzira are working at it, and it begins to look like it would do better than I thought.

Mother cut my hair this evening. Study some critically in Romans. This evening rode with Mary over to Aunt Rilla's and spent the night. Aladdin Holmes and Wm. Holley are home from Virginia. Mrs. Holly gives a party tonight, another dancing party. Sarah Jane was invited, but she had a good excuse not to go. Such frolics are unseasonable I think.

Read Mobile News of the 26th. Noticed nothing specially important. Pa has his hands ploughing. He commenced friday the 5th inst. This is an earlier start than he generally makes. The negroes say they heard some big guns today. They are not certain in what direction they were, but thought it was towards Corinth.

We returned home after breakfast. Engaged in critical studies. This evening lay off the East corner of the flower garden. Rode over to Uncle Joseph's this evening. He returned home tuesday night on a 10 days furlough. He is not well, and says he has done no duty since Christmas. When he left Shannon tuesday morning the command were busily getting ready to go below. They did not certainly know where they were going, but the impression in camp was that they were going to West Point. I think however that they will go farther down. He confirms yesterday news. The Yankees are at Jackson. The troops from Mobile have come up to reinforce Polk and a division is on the way from Johnston. Some still think this Yankee move a feint. Their numbers are variously estimated from 30 to 50000. Regular trains were still running to Tupelo tuesday.

James & Laura Young are here tonight. James hears today that the trains on the R R have stopped. It may be so but if so they have stopped since tuesday. James also hears that a new Federal regiment is drilling at Bolivar, Tenn. but this I think is doubtful. It is said that the State troops have gone to protect the prairie corn from the Yankees, but it is more probable they go to protect some bridges on the R R. The day has been smoky but mostly fine.

This has been a quiet and pleasant day. James & Laura left about 8 o'clock. I had to show Laura the Fortune Teller's Book, a worthless volume I have, before she left. Pa & Ma & Erskine spent the day at Uncle Joseph's. Aunt Rilla was also there. She called at the gate awhile as she returned home. She has heard some reports but I do not know what reliance is to be placed on them. The Yankees are advancing & our army is falling back. Our troops are now said to be at Meridian fortifying, the Yankees are, some say, 20 miles west of Meridian, and others say at the 2d station west of Meridian, I did not hear the name. Our men are reinforcing and she has heard that Lowry's brigade is at Meridian but does not know that it is so. One fact I think from what I hear is sure—that is—the Yankees are advancing on Meridian. Miss Katie Watt was over this evening getting some strawberry plants to set out &c.

I have done but little. Gave some attention to critical studies but considered but 1 verse and that not very difficult, Rom. 5:16.

Notice tonight that the woods are afire N. E. of us. I suppose the Phillips boys are burning them off.

Last night was very rainy, and the earth is full of water this morning. Arch brought me up a letter from N E M enclosing one from Mrs. E J M—cordially consents, and leaves it to N & I to fix the time. N writes that she “cannot possibly appoint the very day now.” She does not think she can get ready before the last of March or the first of April, but adds that she will make an effort to get ready earlier, “if I think proper.” I don't know how I am to answer it. If the trains do not run up I do not suppose there will be any communication with Starkville by mails, and I fear that ere long the Yankees will blockade the way so that there will be no getting there. Some gentlemen from Grenada the 12th passed this morning. They report 6000 Yankees at New Albany yesterday. They came there saturday, and were still there about 10 o'clock sabbath morning. They were not moving, but seemed lying still. This news was with difficulty credited by me, but this evening I again hear it, and this time they are estimated at 7000. Forrest was at Oxford lately, and it is thought that he will be after these Yankees. The evening has been clouded throughout. Rode over to Aunt Rilla's and spent the night. Read a Mississippian of the 3d. I do not remember any items of great importance. Mississippi seems to be the only theatre of active movements now. We had hoped to have had quietness since Corinth was evacuated, but the New Albany news dispells this notion. Uncle Jo over this evening. He had no news.

I neglected to note yesterday that Mr. Rogan of Ripley belonging to Wilcox's Brigade, Anderson's Division, passed on his way back to Virginia, I think he expects to make his way to Tuscaloosa, Ala. He reports that on monday the Yankees sent a scout from New Albany to within 10 miles of Ripley.

This morning is very cold—ice is to be seen wherever there is water. The day has been bright but cold. This evening late it clouded & tonight is closely clouded but it is too cold to rain. A Tennessean of Madison Co. near Denmark passed up from Okolona with a wounded son this forenoon. The son was wounded at Chickamauga. About Okolona the people are much stirred up. Forrest and Gholson are at Pontotoc. The Yankees are still at New Albany 40 thousand strong. Elij Seals passed down this evening. He gives He gives later news from N Albany. The federals left there monday morning, leaving 200 men to guard the bridge across Tallahatchie. The Yankees represent their numbers as 10,000 but Seals thinks 5000 will be nearer the truth. They are said to be under the command of Grierson and say they are going to Okolona. Another regiment crossed at New Albany yesterday evening going below, and they say that more troops are coming on behind. Some say the baggage train is still to come. Evidently there is a strong federal column passing below. I have not heard whether they have gone below Plenitude yet or not. This evening I hear that Gholson is at Chesterville— but if the Yankees are as strong as we hear, we have no troops to retard their advance much. Wrote to Todd Young this morning. Rode up to J. O. Nelson's this evening to take some letters to W. R. Nelson to convey to the army. Did not see him. His sister Mrs. Miller told me that his plan was to start tomorrow but she did not know whether he would get off or not. The other boys (Lowry recruits) also intended leaving tomorrow, but it is doubtful whether they get off.

Uncle Jo over this evening. My ride to Nelson's was very cold and unpleasant.

It was snowing this morning when I got up. Elij Seals told me yesterday that on tuesday evening late 8 or ten Yankees were at Porter Duff's foraging, they came from New Albany. The morning was very cold. It continued to snow for a few hours, the ground was a little whitened. But it then cleared and was bright and clear but cold—very cold. Some say this evening is colder than the morning. Tonight is a swinger.

This morning Uncle Jo came over and reported the Yankees not far away. far away. Uncle Wash's negroes came over with their stock, and said there were plenty of Yankees at Jno. MacDaniel's this morning. I did not credit the report, but Pa sent his mules to the woods immediately after dinner. I went along, and we sat around a blazing fire in the woods untill after sundown when we came in. Nothing more was heard of the Yankees and I am of the opinion that the alarm was a “hoax”. Saw a Mr. Roberts from off Tallahatchie pass the road just after dinner. He said that the Yankees were in the Pannel settlement 3 miles west of Ellistown day before yesterday (tuesday). They tore up Capt. Pannel and Jonathan Dye and in that county are hauling off all the corn and meat and taking all the stock they can find. They were camped at Boswell's near Liberty Church. Robert thinks they are still getting reinforcements from above. Lowry's regiment were to leave West Point tuesday morning for Redland. This is the first reliable news from the State cavalry. Two soldiers passed this morning just from Dalton the 10th inst. They came via Tuscaloosa walking from that place. Tuscaloosa is the nearest point to which they can come by public conveyance. Everything is quiet at Dalton. The troops are reinlinting. It is supposed that the Yankees have Meridian. The 32nd is still at Tunnel Hill when he left.

This morning was cold—The day has been bright and clear. Walked over to Uncle Jo's, learn that yesterday's alarm was groundless.

Messrs. Mayes, Hart, Anderson & Timberlake left after breakfast for their respective destinations. See 3 furloughed Tennesseans of Haywood Go. pass up the road this morning. They came on foot from Demopolis.

The day has been pleasant. Uncle Jo was over and dined here. We imagined we heard cannonading in a south west direction, but may have been mistaken. Several persons, furloughed Tennesseans, have passed during the day and our news is very conflicting. No two men tell the same tale. The Yankees were reported a few miles west of us but I discredit it. This evening Mr. Thomas and 2 others, furloughed soldiers of the 54th Tennessee stopped and are spending the night. They are on their way back to Johnston's army: & live in Madison Co. Tenn. The Yankees who have gone below through N. Albany came from Union City through Madison Co.

After dark a Mr. White, son of Dr. White, Episcopalian minister at Memphis, came in on his way to Hernando to visit his wife. White is now a transportation agent at Atlanta. He came through from Selma by private conveyance. Mr. Todd of Pontotoc Co. is taking [him] in a little waggon. White reports the Yankees at Aberdeen on thursday. They are said to have passed through Tupelo yesterday. These Tupelo Yankees are supposed to be a detachment from a Camp at Poplar Springs this side of Pontotoc. On yesterday I heard they shot and killed Rev. Lewis Ball, a popular Baptist preacher.

Polk has fallen back 15 miles south of Meridian, Sherman commands there. His force consists of McPherson and Hurlbut's Corps, about 35,000 men. Mr. White has some Atlanta papers of the 12th which I looked at tonight. Thackeray, the author, died Dec. 24th. J. B. Clay died recently in Canada. There is a rumor that the Yankees are flanking Johnston towards Rome. On friday the 12th Forrest fought the Yankees at Wyatt, and repulsed them. His present whereabouts is unknown. It is rumored below here that Gen. Gholson has been mortally wounded somewhere within a few days. The soldiers (furloughed) of whom I have seen a goodly number, all seem in good spirits. Evidently Mississippi has been abandoned to the complete possession of the Yankees. To use a common expression “our State has gone up.”

Received tonight a letter from John Agnew dated the 6th inst. The project of reinlistment is being agitated in the 32nd. Only 3 persons in Co. B favor the scheme. This was my evening to have gone to Hopewell but I have deemed it inadvisable to go in consequence of the unsettled state of the country. I am unable to ascertain whether there are any Yankees near that neighborhood, but think it very probable there are some about Poplar Springs.

Sabbath. Our lodgers of last night started on their way after breakfast. They considered it “a work of necessity” to travel on the Sabbath.

The day has been very pretty: tonight however is a little clouded. Rode out to Church—a respectably sized congregation were present, but before the people went to the Church, Uncle Young's Jo came up bringing the report that the Yankees were in Yarnaby bottom coming up this way. The congregation took the alarm and immediately dispersed. Came over home and read Calvin's Institutes. Finished the 2d Book of the work today.

Have heard several items today but what we hear is very contradictory. John McGee is home on furlough from Tunnel Hill. Thad Bryson also reached his father's this morning. The report of the Yankees being at Aberdeen is contradicted. The general report at Church today was that they were in Yarnaby bottom, and tonight I have certainly learned that there was a batch certainly at Chesterville. Six of them were captured by some of our men in that neighborhood this morning. It seems hard to get the truth about the Yankees. It is now said that none are camped about Poplar Springs. Neil Galloway went down into Buncombe yesterday evening. He will bring an account of things in that country. Tonight about 8 o'clock or a little after Uncle Jo passed going to the Cross Roads. Some 15 of Ham's men are camped tonight in Brice's wood lot. A man passed Uncle Jo's after dark running from Gambrell's. He told the negroes that the Yankees were coming across country and had drove him from Gambrell's since dark. I do not know whether there is any truth in the account or not. A Negro Thomas belonging to Jno. Hanna of the 54th Tenn. Reg't passed this evening making his way from Gibson Co. Tenn. to his master in Johnston's army. He is a faithful servant. His master gave him a pass home from Dalton in Dec. and now he is making his way back. He certainly deserves credit for his fidelity.

Up early and immediately after breakfast rode west to ascertain facts in reference the report of Yankees at Gambrell's. At Uncle Jo learned that it was not so. A young Jones, son of widow Jones, started the report. His conduct is worthy of the severest censure.

The day throughout has been clear and pretty. Wrote a letter to Jno. D. Agnew in the forenoon, Uncle Jo over this evening. He has heard that the Yankees are building a bridge across the Tombigby at Aberdeen. E. S. Hammond passed this evening. He has recently married a daughter of Orlando Davy. He says that through a negro he understands that more Yankees were passing through Alabama saturday and sabbath. Forrest on tuesday was at Sarepta, Chalmers at Houston, and Gholson at West Point. A Memphis Bulletin of the 17th reports the Federals at Meridian. Polk is represented as being between Meridian and Jackson. Banks is moving along the coast against Mobile, the bombardment of Fort Morgan is reported to have commence. There is also a movement from Larkin's Ferry on the Tennessee down the Coosa Valley. Gen. W. L. Smith commands the Feds who have passed through New Albany.

Rode over to Aunt Rilla's late this evening. Was surprised to find Aunt Sarah Agnew there. She came up from Verona saturday. There had been no Yankees there up to saturday morning: neither at Tupelo. There were some at Okolona on friday and they had burnt some stores. They had also been at Egypt—and the idea below is that they have gone from Okolona down the Rail Road. Aunt Sarah did not know whether any had been at Aberdeen or not. About Verona the country has been full of the wildest kind of reports, but they have nearly all proven false. It is thought these false alarms mostly are started by deserters. Noticed this evening two Tennesseans going back to the army, they are from Shelby Co. One was named Herring, the other was an Irishman who Herring called Dennis. They were fotting it.

After breakfast rode home. Met in Phillips' lane several footmen and one horseman: they were Tennesseans from Fayette and Tipton Counties going to Bragg's army as Johnston's troops are still called. They were here last night and I hear give very entertaining accounts of the times in West Tennessee during the Yankee occupation. Maj. Beaty told me this morning that he saw Alex Lowry yesterday evening. Lowry told him that the Yankees were scattered from Aberdeen to Meridian. Our troops were concentrating at Starkville opposite them. The day has been clear and pretty. Mr. Bryant was here for dinner, he was hunting corn. This evening Uncle Jo was over. During the day the news was that the Yankees were all gone down the Railroad below Okolona.

Late this evening rode down to Uncle Young's & spend the night, Miss Mollie McGee was there. As I went down Frank Branyan told me that there was an alarm of Yankees this evening. They were reported 4 miles this side of Chesterville coming this way. The neighbors there had their stock out. Went on to Mr. Young's. The alarm had subsided. Gambrell's scout got back this evening and they report Forrest driving the Yankees back. Forrest could not get in their front untill they got down near Tibbie. There he got them turned. At Okolona they made a stand on monday, but Forrest drove them away with considerable loss. Col. Jeff Forrest was killed at Okolona. Forrest with one regiment charged 4 Federal reg'ts and routed them. There we captured 15 pieces of artillery, which some say is all they had. The pursuit still continues. There was fighting near Redland monday evening. The Yankees passed through Pontotoc monday night going towards New Albany. As the Yankees retreated they destroyed vast quantities of corn and burned every gin house they came to. Gambrell's men heard firing this evening towards Poplar Springs and they conjectured the Yankees were in that quarter.

Uncle Young's negroes report having heard firing last night about 10 o'clock in a western direction. Came up home soon after breakfast, and have lolled about doing nothing of much moment. From several passers by have heard several items confirmatory of yesterday's news. The Yankees have gone back towards Memphis, having crossed Tallahatchie at New Albany 3 o'clock monday evening and fed that night at Norvell's and Graham's. One of them told a citizen that they had been south and got whipped like hell. They filled the ford of the river with logs &c so that Forrest could not cross after them. He however sent 60 men over to follow and see where they went. Forrest pressed them hard between Pontotoc and New Albany, especially at Cherry Creek, and Oconita. The road from Aberdeen to Pontotoc is strewed with dead Yankees. The Yankee loss is heavy in killed, wounded and prisoners: ours comparatively light. Col. Jeff Forrest at Okolona killed a Yankee Colonel, when two of his men shot him, Gen. Forrest killed 2 who were trying to kill him. We have not the particulars in reference to the localities and details of the different fights. The Feds travelled the whole of Monday night going towards Holly Springs. The enemy on the route lost all their artillery and waggon train. I think it cost them more than it came to. Mrs. Abrams was here this evening wanting to get a bale of cotton to take to Memphis. She did not get any. The day has been very pretty, perfectly clear but a little smoky.

This day has been fair and pleasant, but very smoky, owing to the prevalence of fires. Uncle Jo had fire out in his farm this evening and was fighting it. Assist the girls in their flower yard during the morning, also finished the 5th Chapter of Romans in my critical studies. This evening study with a view to a sermon for Sabbath.

Saw R. C. Richey this morning. He tells me that Ham has been ordered back to West Point. Ham in the pursuit was the last to leave off. His Battalion drove the Yankees from Pontotoc and Cherry Creek. At Pontotoc Jas. Sutherland was severely wounded. Tonight a Mr. Beanland, a lad, is here. He belongs to Gambrell's Independent scouts. Gambrell is just back from a scout after the Yankees. He killed 1 and captured 2 about 3 miles this side of Tippah on yesterday. The idea among the Yankees was that they would stop on the other side of Tippah and rest a few days. The most important fight was between West Point and Tibbie. This was on Sabbath. The 7 Indiana, 14th New Jersey and 4th Regulars were along. Gambrell has captured 10 Yankees during this Yankee expedition. He is a brave man and an effective scout. He proposes making a scout towards Meridian soon. They start on the 8th inst.

This day has been fair but very smoky, especially early in the morning and late this evening. I have been busily engaged writing a sermon, Micah 2:10. This has kept me engaged the whole day. I finished it tonight.

Mr. John Anderson, wife and child called in before dinner and sat till about 4 o'clock. They had been to Guntown. Pa had gone over to the Hughes' farm and did not return till the middle of the afternoon, and it devolved on me to do the entertaining: not a very pleasant task especially as I had a sermon on hand and wished to devote my entire time to that. My guests were not of the most refined character and it was rather an unpleasant service. Harvey Hawthorne called at the gate this evening. He has been down in the neighborhood a few days and was returning, He had no news. It is rumored that Col. Inge was killed at Okolona. Hear from two passers by tonight that it is rumored that the Yankees have been driven from Meridian, and it is thought that in 5 or 6 weeks trains will be running up the M & C R R again. But it is a rumor and may or may not be so. Have tonight a singular pain in the large intestine opening at the anus, a short distance above the anus.

This morning and entire forenoon has been very smoky, as much so as I have seen lately. The sun shines out however in a dim way.

Have been all forenoon writing a letter to N E M to send by Uncle Jo to West Point. I have not seen anyone outside of the family and have not heard any news. About 1/2 after 1 I started to Hopewell, and rode to Hugh Caldwell's where I spent the night.

This evening the smoke very dense. It looked as if the whole country was being burned off. Saw no fire out but notice considerable tracts of woods which have been burnt within a short time. This will perhaps account for the superabundance of smoke.

Got from Mr. Caldwell reliable accounts of the Yankee depredations in that neighborhood. The accounts we have had were much exagerated. They camped several days at Cornelius, above Tardyville, and the people along the main Pontotoc road were badly torn up. Sloan's crib was burned, B. Harper's gin was also burnt. In the Hopewell neighborhood they did much damage, searching houses, and taking corn, fodder and meat, and pilfering little articles from their houses. At Houston's they only took 3 negroes who are believed to have gone away of their own accord. They took none of his corn and very little if any of his meat. John Stephenson had all his fodder and a good part of his corn taken. Barton Jones, Isaac Smith, Jerry Neal, Mrs. Stephenson &c were principle sufferers. They were at Wiley's Mill but not at his house. They did him no harm. They captured Moses Roberts, some think that Mosey threw himself purposely in their way, but I cannot think so. They did not interfere with citizens who are not in the army. Tonight I hear that Forrest was fighting the Yankees about Holly Springs on friday and got the worst of it. But the report is discredited. I was also told this evening by Jno. Wages, Sr. that the Yankees were at Holly Springs reinforcing from Memphis and swearing by all that is good that they will go back and give Forrest a thrashing. They acknowledge that Forrest gave them the worst kind of a whipping.

Sabbath. This morning was still smoky but by noon the smoke lifted up and it was cloudy and tonight a cold mist of rain is falling.

Rode out to Hopewell and preached from Micah 2:10. Had one of my sick brushes during the sermon and had to conclude with a very short prayer. Dine with Maj. Wiley and rode home after dinner. Had a respectable congregation. The chief topic of remark was a sad occurrence which transpired last night. It seems that some men (supposed to be Steel and Coleman) went last night to Milton Dunlap's and fired his fodder stack. Dunlap went out to see about it, and the scamp fired at him inflicting dangerous wounds in his right breast and the calf of his leg. Mrs. Sim Pannel and Miss Sallie McKeown being near neighbors, hearing the cries of Dunlap children, went to see what it meant, accompanied by Allen Miller, who was spending the night at Mr. Pannel's. When they got near Dunlap's the scoundrels fired on them, hitting Mrs. Pannel in the right shoulder, left side, and ankle. Miss McKeown's clothing was pierced by the bullets. The scamps then went to Pannels corn crib and burned it to the ground. This was a high handed proceeding. Messrs. Steel and Coleman have been arrested. What could have impelled any one to commit such a deed cannot be imagined by me. The wounds inflicted on Mrs. Pannel and Mr. Dunlap are very severe but it is hoped they will not be mortal.

Hear today that on the 17th Polk was at Demopolis fortifying and Sherman at Meridian engaged in the same way. Later accounts report the Yankees to have fallen back to Jackson, some say after a fight, and others without one. Charlie Liddell and Silvanus Johnson furloughed from the 45 Reg't were at Church today. H. Mitchell got home yesterday. On the way he heard that their reg't would be sent to Meridian very shortly.

Rec'd tonight a letter from J. F. Y. dated the 13th. Nothing special in it. Rev. Wilson Frierson died about the 25th ulto Jan'y) at Meridian. He was on his way home. Aunt Sarah came home with our people from Church and she and Mary are at Uncle Jo's tonight.

First noticed peach blooms for this season on saturday evening the 27th. Mother saw one on friday, but the first I saw was on saturday. It rained I think all of last night. And the day throughout has been rainy, cool and inclement. It has rained slowly but almost continuously and has been so unpleasant that I have mostly sat by the fire within doors, amusing myself by teasing and quizzing Erskine. Miss Davis was down this forenoon. Her father is no better, but perhaps worse. Frank Young came up this evening and sat awhile with us. Have heard from several sources today that the Yankees have left Meridian. Some say they have gone away and others they were driven. An ox waggon from Memphis passed this evening with the body of Lt. Col. Hamilton who died recently at Johnson's Island. It is being carried home for burial. The gentleman along told me they left Memphis wednesday and he says they met the worst whipped set of Yankees he ever saw. He also reports having heard that the Yankees were driven back from Meridian and also that there has been a big battle in Virginia in which the Yankees were as badly whipped as they ever have been. These are the reports he brings. Time will prove whether it is true.

Tonight the rain is still falling—more heavily I think than in daylight and without intermission. The water gurgling through the gutters and falling on the housetop makes a monotonous music which courts sleep.

When I lay down last night it was raining—when I awakened (before 5) it was raining heavily—when I got up it was still raining and the presumption is that it rained the entire night, without any intermission. About 9 o'clock it sleeted awhile. After that a fine mist of snow fell. This evening has cleared and it is cold. The creeks and branches are very full, much water having fallen.

We have this morning a white frost, the ground is frozen and now that the sun has risen everything in smoking as on a winter morning. Attend to the salting away of the hog which was killed yesterday. We have had a very pretty day overhead but very muddy under foot. We have had a great deal of company during the day. William Wiley and wife, and Mrs. Phillips dined with [us] and spent the day here. Also Aunt Sarah, Mrs. Henderspn, Petty Twitchell, & Alfred O. Shields. This was a considerable company. Mrs. Phillips paid me $7.00 for schooling, but unfortunately I have lost it and cannot find it. Aunt Sarah and Mary came over before dinner. She (A. Sarah) is in trouble about her interest in the estate. Mrs. Henderson met her here desiring to go over and assist in packing up her things but she went home as she had not time to do much. Aunt Sarah has gone to Gambrell's this evening taking Mary with her. Uncle Jo passed on to his command this morning. It is now at Buena Vista. He carries my letter to N E M to mail. I understand they have mails again at Okolona. This is good news to me. Trains are said to be now running to Meridian and the hope is expressed that they will soon come up into our country. The Yankees have certainly fallen back to Jackson, or Vicksburg, from Meridian. There was no fight. What it means I am unable to think. Forrest's repulse of Smith and the evacuation of Meridian, and the reconstruction of the Rail Road all combine to present our public affairs in a cheerful light to us.

Rode o er to Uncle Jo's this evening and gave Aunt M. J. $10.00 which Uncle Jo requested me to hand her. Henry Branyan was there. He has heard that the Yankees are taking all the Memphis traders and sending them all—men and women— north. This is improbable.

Immediately after breakfast rode over to Aunt M. J's and find my lost money there, I had dropped it and they found it on the hearth. This ends the search.

Saw a furloughed Tennessean of Johnston's army who had left Selma on the 25th ulto. Cheatham's division was there then—a part of them had been to Demopolis. Cleburn's division had also come as far as Montgomery to reinforce Polk, but was stopped there. The Yankees have all left Meridian and gone west of Pearl river. The move to Meridian must have been a feint to draw troops from Johnston, in which they succeeded. Now the enemy are pressing us at Dalton & Tunnell Hill. On the 21st there was a fight at Tunnell Hill, our men driving the enemy back several miles. Gen. Cheatham thinks there will be a fight there by the time his Division can get back.

The morning was clear but this evening was clouded. A Mr. Neely from near Orizaba passed this evening with a mule for Aunt Rilla, recently sold to her by Harvey Hawthorne. He also had one for Frank Young. He insisted on me going to Aunt Rilla's with him and I reluctantly consented although I felt unwell and would rather not have gone. I have been very hoarse all day and my throat is sore and I have a severe cold. Found some company at Aunt Rilla's viz Mr. McHarvey, Mrs Pannell and a little girl of Rienzi. They were from Okolona. Mr. Neely remained there for the night also.

Gather some items. The trains are expected to be up at Okolona unless something adverse occurs. The impression below is that Forrest has gone towards Grenada which it is rumored is again threatened with a raid. Sherman has fallen back beyond Big Black. The report is that the Yankees are robbing the Memphis traders and puttint them in the Irving Block. Fears are entertained respecting those who left the neighborhood for Memphis, as they have been longer absent than was expected. It is reported that there has been a battle at Culpeper, Va. and Lee is marching into Pennsylvania, but I do not credit it. Nine of the wounded Yankees have died at Okolona, and 9 or 10 more are expected to die. It in reported that Lee & Forrest are both at Starkville, but I doubt it.

Took a dose of pepper tea for my cold tonight.

Feel better this morning but am still hoarse. Aunt R's lodgers all left early. I sat awhile and talked. Aunt Rilla has had a good deal of corn and some meal stolen recently. The theives are a crying nuisance.

Came on home. Find Aunt Sarah here. She and Mary returned yesterday evening. She remained till the middle of the afternoon when she went to Aunt Rilla's. Sat and talked with her the most of the time. She gave me some particulars in reference to the manner in which the estate negroes are namaging. She gets her information from Gambrell. Verily they are very great rascals. They have big parties at which Uncle Jo's, Brice's and our negroes resort. Our Caroline is the belle. Every negroe that comes must bring a hank of thread to pay expenses. Old Isham is independent, sits in his house and works at coopering, pocketing proceeds. These parties explain the stolen thread, wheat and chickens which have been missed in the neighborhood. Old Ross, Isham and their gang are verily great rascals.

The day has been mostly clouded—tonight is blustry, and windy. At night there was a little flurry of rain. I am still hoarse with my cold, but am not sick with it.

Some mules got out of the lot this evening. Erskine & John followed them a long round and finally got them. Have not heard any news during the day.

This has been a very pretty day. This forenoon I lolled about reading some old numbers of Harper's Magazine, and glancing at the Spectator in miniature. This evening Messrs. Jno. Haddon, J. O. Nelson and J. B. Gambrell met here to correct some discrepancies in the bill of appraisement of the personal property of Dr. Washington Agnew, dec'd, and also to revise the property given to the widow. The error is supposed to have originated in an omission of H. L. Holland, who was the clerk when it was made May 11, 1863. They discovered what was wrong and righted it. I don't think that Aunt Sarah will be satisfied.

The Memphis waggons have returned. They were not molested, but had to remain in Memphis 5 days to transact their business. Some of the waggoners passed this evening. They were from about Guntown. I have not heard any items of news which they bring. Only 50 lbs. of salt is allowed to be brought out to a family now.

A Lt. Wallis & Mr. Bromley were arrested a day or two back for horse stealing. The horses were stolen below here. Lt. Wallis is the principal. They are sent below for punishment. An old man was murdered near Pleas Thomas' by a Mr. Nelson and Thomas' son for money. They pretended to think he was a spy. Lawless acts are growing common. It is rumored that Johnston is moving into Kentucky, but I do not credit it. The talk is still there has been a big battle in Va. The Yankees are preparing for another on to Richmond, and had brought over the Rappahannock a large quantity of commissary stores. Lee getting wind of the move pounced upon them before they were ready and captured the entire stores, & 9000 prisoners, and drove the enemy back a considerable distance. There may be some truth in the report, but don't regard it as certain yet.

John Q. Adams, Qr master of the 4th Miss. was killed recently by the discharge of a pistol as he was mounting his horse. It occurred near Columbus. Wrote to J. F. Young this morning. I expect to send it by Jno. McGee, who starts monday for the army.

My cold is better but I am still hoarse.

Sabbath. This has been a pretty day. Rode out to Bethany and hear Rev. J. L. Young preach from Psalm 138:3 Respectable congregation was out. More men than common. Pa had a chill at Church. Came on home and read Calvin's Institutes. The subject today is faith. Hear some items at Church. The report is still there has been a battle in Virginia. It lasted a day and a half. The enemy attacked us, Lee fell back slowly the first evening. The next morning Lee's order was Charge and the enemy were routed and every vehicle and supply this side of the river was captured, also 19000 prisoners. This news has come so often that it may be so. There is also a report that there has been a three days battle in Georgia, but my informant (S. Bryson) did not believe it but thought Longstreet and Johnston are forming a junction and will march into Ky. I think the battle rumor more probable. They are working on the R. R. Tibbie Bridge is to be built, which will take some time. Forrest has moved from West Point toward Jackson with all his available force. This morning an independent company (Boling's) of Kentuckians passed up the road. They left Demopolis on the 20th and say they are going to Kentucky.

This morning was cloudy and heavy looking, and a sprinkle of rain fell in the forenoon. This evening has been sunshiny. Tonight there is a cloud in the north and it is thundering and I would not be surprised to have a flurry of wind and rain before morning.

Rode up to Esq. Nutt's this morning. He is disposing of goods he brought from Memphis. He sells for nothing but greenback or cotton. He has dry goods, shoes &c &c. Pa went up this morning and got a sifter, some ribband, needles, pocket handkerchiefs &c. The Esq. told me he brought some papers but they were at Mrs. McGee's, and I could get them there. His house was crowded with persons in search of Memphis goods. He could not get any medicines out. I went to Mrs. McGee's after the papers. She was not at home. Find but one paper there, a Chicago Times of the 20th. Brought it home and look through it. See that a war has broken out between Denmark and Austria & Prussia. A battle was fought on the 2nd Feb. at Missunde also there had been an engagement at Bestor. This is called a Schleswig war but I do not know the points in dispute. Marshal Wrangel is the general of the Prussians, and Austrians. Notice nothing of special importance in reference to our war. Three gentlemen, one of whom is Capt. Daisy, dined here. They have heard that Johnston has fallen back 14 miles below Dalton. The Yankees are at LaGrange & have been there near a week. It is thought they intend establishing a post there. This does not bode well to this section. They believe the reported battle in Va. Starkville Pate and John McCandless (Yankee John) are here tonight. They have no news— worth noting. George's baby has been sick for a day or two. It has convulsions.

Hear today that Forrest is pressing all the horses about Starkville, and it is thought he contemplates a movement into W. Tenn, but this is only a guess. I regard none of our rumors as reliable, for they are contradictory.

When I got up it was clouded closely. Before noon however the sun shone out. Rode up to Squires' to conclude the settlement. Find that Mrs. S. is not in a good humor. Although she talked and seemed disposed to do what was right yesterday, she is not so this morning. The cotton sale was for 177.00, charges 18.00 nett, proceeds 159.00. Each one's share 79.50. Under the head of charges there is 15.00 for Repairing and Light. This she is disposed to have Aunt M. J. pay, saying she will not loose the damaged cotton for it is not her fault. It is a misnomer to call repairing and light “damaged cotton”. Rode over to Esq. Nutt's. He said my calculation is perfectly right. This still did not satisfy Mrs. S. Aunt M. J. has 73.50 worth of goods assigned to her leaving 6.00 still due. Mrs. S's stand closed my proceedings and I returned home, fixed up a statement of the whole affair thus far and took it over to Aunt M. J. Squires had been there and had presented the case as for damaged cotton, and Aunt M. J. relinquished her claim for 7.50 of goods, the 1/2 of the charge for “damaged cotton.” So she is chiselled out of 7.50 of her just due. This is dishonest dealing, but perhaps it was best for the sake of peace. Ill gotten gains never profit.

Waited at Aunt M. J's for Larkin to get back with what belonged to Aunt M. J. Larkin reports that Mrs. S. is vexed and won't do a thing. Squires evidently wants to do what is right, but I can't say as much for his wife. She evidently has the “studs” and is very much out of humor. She makes a few dollars in the opperation. She has either a bad head or a bad heart.

After dinner it commenced raining. Some Memphis waggons broke down near the house and I got 2 Papers from one (T. Godfrey) a Memphis Argus of the 1st. and Bulletin of the 2nd. Get to look over them. The Yankees took Tunnel Hill on the 24th and on the 25th they were in 3 miles of Dalton. Beauregard is at Tallahassee, Fla. to oppose a federal movement in that quarter. Meade has fallen back towards Washington.

Came on home by 3 o'clock through the rain. Mrs. McGee sent me over the Bulletin of the 26th and Argus of the 27th. Read them. The principal subject is the reorginization of Tennessee State Government. There seems to be 2 parties, one for a new freedom constitution, and the other for the old State constitution. I notice that “obstructionist” is the name of one of the parties. The republican nomination for the Presidency is also the subject to which some prominence is given, Lincoln, Chase and Fremont seem the prominent aspirants. Their national convention is to meet on the 7th of June in Baltimore. In Arkansas a provisional government is formed with Isaac Murphy as Government. They are to have an election for State officers on the 14 March. Michael Hahn has been elected Gov. of Louisiana. These governments are formed in accordance with the President's amnesty proclamation. These papers are fuller of political than military items. The war of Denmark has some prominence in these papers. The Dannework seems to be the Danish stronghold. In the Argus of the 27th there is a notice of the late raid into this part of the country. It says the Yankees were successful. It gives a false account of their success. The fruits of the raid were 2000000 Bush. Corn & 2000 Bales cotton burned, 100 prisoners, 1500 negroes and 3000 horses. Their loss of course was very small.

This evening has been very rainy. It has been also been very blustery during the day.

Foggy this morning. Engaged in critical studies in forenoon. The day was very pleasant and very quiet. Esq. Holmes was in this evening begging for Mr. Daniel Davis. Mr. Davis was so unfortunate as to have his dwelling house burned down night before last. Fire rolled out of the fire place and lighted a pile of rich lightwood and when Mr. Davis and family awaked they had barely time to escape from the house. Everything they had was consumed, and they are left with nothing but their night clothing. Esq. Holmes is getting from the neighbors contributions of bedding, clothing &c. Money is of no benefit for nothing can be got with money. Aunt M. J. sent for me to go over and stay tonight. I went and she is still dissatisfied with the Squires' settlement. But I don't think anything can be done.

This has been a pleasant day. At Aunt M. J's request rode up to Esq. Nutt's to present the facts of the case to him. She fears that her conduct will be misrepresented. Nutt says that Mrs. Squires is not willing to do what is right. He says now that he did not retain $19.00 of the cotton money in his hands. This opens up a difficulty between Mrs. Squires and Nutt. With that we have no concern.

Came on home, find Mrs. Mary Bryson, Jane Young and Cousin Laura here. I went on over to Uncle Jo's and reported to Aunt Mary Jane, came back by dinner. Anderson Reeves came about noon and took 2 Bales of Cotton to take to Memphis “one half for half.” Hickey brought up his young grey mule “Beck” and Wile put it in the waggon and worked it. It is wild as a dear, and cut up generally. Conversed with the ladies during the evening and thus spend the evening pleasantly. Rode over to Aunt Rilla's and spent the night. Aunt Sarah there. She hears a good quantity of good news. 1500 hands are working on the R. R. Lee has gained a great victory in Va. capturing 11 thousand Yankees. Johnston has had a fight at Dalton, and the first day repulsed the enemy. Nothing has been heard since the first day. Sherman's entire waggon train was captured before they crossed Pearl River. Beauregard has whipped the Yankees at Mud Creek (where is Mud Creek?) In Florida we have taken some place and captured 4000 prisoners. Banks has been badly whipped in Texas. This may all be so and again it may not be so. Hoskins falls short in his cotton settlement with Brice more than $20.00. Verily honesty seems to have fled the land.

Hear that George Oliver and Miss Eliza Rowan were married on thursday night, the 10th. Came home, Aunt Rilla came with me. She was going to Aunt M. J's. I brought “Beulah” by Miss Evans of Mobile home with me to read. A few years ago it was a very popular publication. Mr. Brice was here, but just leaving as I came up. He told Pa that he understands that Johnston has whipped the Yankees at Dalton and driven them to within 2 miles of Chattanooga. Mr. Brice called especially to tell Pa in reference to some arrangement in reference to Confederate currency but I am not certain what it is. I think it is in reference to the bonding of notes—and the thing must be attended to before the first of April or it cannot be done at all.

The day has been very pleasant, about noon it clouded, but tonight is clear. I have been reading Beulah today— indeed this has been my principal business, and I acknowledge I am much interested. She was an orphan but very self reliant, and self willed, and talented. She has fallen into an uncertain religious belief, seems to be seeking the truth, but in vain, in the writings of Emerson. Dr. Hartwell is a strongly marked character. Pa is reading Beulah to the family tonight. Aunt Rilla called in this evening. Pa sent by her a note to Aunt Sarah informing her in reference to the appraisement difficulty.

Saw two waggons pass this evening. A Lady (from near Mt. Pleasant) along told me the Yankees were just behind them. Yesterday and this morning they were crossing Tippah at Beck's Springs, the force estimated at 15,000. At Kelly's Mill this evening it was reported they were not far from there. They say they are after Forrest. I am afraid that another heavy raid is on the way down into the prairie region to destroy more corn. Every grain is needed by the destitute. It looks as Providence is placing insuperable barriers to my communicating with N E M. I hope yet that it will not be as bad as I fear. Tonight is blustery, and March-like. There has been very little passing during the day.

Sabbath. A most beautiful day. Rode out to Bethany and hear Rev. J. L. Young preach from Eccles 7: In the day of adversity consider. The chief topic today is the bonding of Confederate notes, which must be accomplished before the 1st of April. Beaty will go down to Columbus to attend to this for the neighbors.

Kimmons had his horses all stolen thursday night. He is going to Pontotoc and today is his last appointment at Gaston. Uncle Jo got home last evening. He is unwell.

Nothing definite in the way of news today. Mr. Randall, a Methodist exhorter is here tonight. On friday evening last he was met on Sweeten hill by Jno. Chisholm Watkins &c. & others, and made to stop and was searched. Their plea was they suspicioned him to be a spy. They took nothing from him. He stopped at Lewis Brown's, and during the night his horse was stolen, but was found yesterday back of H. Gober's in a thicket conceild. Napolien Bolen was with the horse. He claims to have swapped for the horse with Jno. Chisholm. An effort was made today to apprehend Chisholm and Watkins, but it was unsuccessful. Chisholm told Randall that his name was Alexander. Bolen when caught gave his name as Armstrong. Bolen is under guard at Esq. Nutt's, and is to be tried tomorrow

Just at dark Pa had a chill and is very sick tonight. He is now moving downstairs. I hope that he will be better by morning.

At Church today the people generally did not credit the report of another raid. Tonight Wile tells me that Turner Whitten is in the neighborhood in pursuit of a man who has stolen a horse from him. He has been over west, and he says the Yankees are again at New Albany. This if true is confirmatory of yesterday's report.

Read today Calvin—the subject is repentance—also the Popish doctrine of confession & satisfactions.

Immediately after breakfast rode down to Uncle Young's. He was not at home. I left with him a hundred dollars to pay Prof. Conkey's account against Pa—also my watch to be repaired by the goldsmith at Pontotoc, if he thought he would be in town long enough for the repairs to be made. Returned home without seeing him, leaving the money and watch with Laura. Came on home early at the special request of Mr. Randall. He is a strange, a very strange man. He did not want to go up to the trial unless sent for, and I believe would not have gone at all if I had not gone with him. I went up with him and we found a considerable crowd waiting our arrival. Esq. Prather advised a course in strict accordance with the law. Randall made affidavit. Prather issued a warrant and Dixon served it on Bolen. 7 Jurors were then chosen by the prisoner and sworn in, and Napolien Buonapart Bolen was put on trial before the magistrate for commitment. I heard Bolen's statement. He denies having stolen the horse, but knew it was stolen. Mr. Randall was unwilling that I should leave him, consequently I remained untill he was released from the trial. He evidently did not feel safe unless I was about. Bolen has made some disclosures in reference to rascals who are theiving so extensively. Last night his guards took him to Jno. Martin's and during the night they made him believe they were going to hang him when he “made a clean breast” of it. He implicates several persons in horse theiving viz John Watkins, Harrison Gober, John Chisholm, Lit Wages, Lafayette Bolen and Luther Privet. It is thought by some that there are others in this band of horse theives whoose name are not yet known. If they don't mind they will suffer for their transgressions. I feel sorry for Bolen, he is youthful, looks in bad health and there is something prepossessing in his countenance. I have not heard the result of the trial, but suppose he will be sent to Gen. Gholson for trial.

Learn today that James Davis died last tuesday the 8th inst. He has been sick a long while. Understand truly that on the 26th Grant was driven from Tunnel Hill and our boys are again there. See Uncle Jo this evening. He has a 20 day furlough. Gholson's forces is down at Buena Vista. They are at work on the R R as hard as they can and look for the cars in 3 or 4 weeks. He did not get to send my letter to N E M to West Point untill the 10th inst. Bruton Gambrell over this evening. He wished to see about sending Confed. money to Columbus for conversion into bonds.

This morning was clouded, this evening however is fair. Randall went on his way late this evening. He has been detained near 3 days by the “kindness” of horse theives. The news of another Yankee raid is discredited.

This morning was cloudy and the day throughout has been cloudy and cool. Tonight is quite cool, and we may have a frost which would cut off the peach crop, for the trees are now in full bloom. I have lolled about home the entire day. Finished Beulah this forenoon. It is a very good novel. The progress of Beulah through the doubts and skepticism generated by philosophic studies to a simple and earnest faith in the Christian religion was especially interesting to me. The death scene of Cornelia Graham was sad yet instructive, the death of one who had no hope.

This evening have 4 Bales and a lot of unpacked cotton brought from the gin house and put in the “old house”. The theives have recently been taking some of our cotton.

Have not heard from Bolen's trial today and do not know what disposition was made of him yesterday. Have not heard any news of importance. See some waggons passing from the Prairies with corn. At Okolona there is no news. It is said to be certain that recently a decisive and important victory was gained in Florida. Some think that trains will not reach Okolona before May. Heard cars are now running from Rienzi to Prairie Station, they bring up a hundred bushels at a load. The Yankees are reported to have been crossing Tallahatchie day before yesterday. The report is doubtful. Aunt M. J. was over at Aunt Rilla's today. William has been furloughed and Aunt Rilla is looking for him now any day. It is thought he has called by S. C. and hence is delayed.

Uncle Jo over this evening. He thinks he will be discharged.

This morning there is ice and it is cold. And the day throughout has been chilly and unpleasant. Read some interesting items in Beck's Medical Jurisprudence. Hickey was here this evening. He had some 8 or 9 Bushels of Corn stolen last night. Mr. Brice had his best mule stolen monday night. Verily there is no security to property. N. B. Bolen was turned over to the Military authorities by the jury on monday. He was brought to Watson's monday night and guarded. The next morning Turner Whitten & James Watson started with him to the Cross Roads but they let him escape near Brice's Gin. It is thought by some that it was done purposely. They shot at him as he fled, but did no ham.

I rode down to Uncle Young's tonight. Randall was there monday night. Some soldiers at Sutherland's told him that if young Bolen was hurt he should suffer for it, and a woman told him to keep his eyes open. He became alarmed and took the woods and came up to Uncle Young's about dark. The man is evidently badly frightened and weak minded. Uncle Young did not get my watch fixed in Pontotoc. Park's regiment (Falkner's) passed through Pontotoc tuesday going northward: they say to Holly Springs. Forrest was to be at Tupelo tonight on his way into Tennessee. Some 1200 Bushels of corn has been gathered at Tupelo for his command. Ham's Battalion is below Chesterville. There has been a victory in Va. 11000 prisoners were captured. We have some particulars but I do not regard them as reliable. There is also said to be a victory in Florida but not much is known of it. A victory is also reported at Charleston. The federals made a land attack and were driven back to their boats. I do not rely on these items.

Fleming, Chief Engineer of the M & C R R was at Tupelo last week. He says the cars will be running to that point in 30 days. Notice this evening a squad of cavalry at Mrs. Mahon's. They said they were Forrest's men, so Cousin Laura understood. Sat up late talking with Uncle Young.

We had a white frost this morning and the ground was frozen. The thermometer stood at 20°. Understanding there was a letter at Brice's for me I rode there and found a letter from N E M. How it came I know not. She sent it to Pontotoc but I do not know how it came from Pontotoc. Maj. Humphreys sent it to Brice's. She signifies that she will be ready for my appearance any time after the 20th, but fixes no particular day. She wants the ceremony to be performed in the morning before she leaves—there will be no party. Came on home, Messrs. Hickey, Martin, Beaty, F. B. Gambrell, F. Branyan and Corder were here devising or rather seeing about sending their Confederate money to Columbus to be bonded in accordance with the law. I am not in possession of the particulars of the law. Twitchell is going down, but he does not wish it known. This bonding of Confederate money has been a subject of prime interest among the people for several days. Gov. Clark has called the Legislature of the State in extra session to convene at Columbus on the 24th. After dinner aid in nailing up the old-house. We have evidence that burglars are operating on some cotton in the house. This evening wrote a first copy of a letter to N. E. M. Two gentlemen, footmen, furloughed 51st Tennessee, men from Johnston's army, stopped and are spending the night with us, one is Capt. Hall of the mountain neighborhood and the other Lt. Moffitt of Hatchie bottom, both of Tipton Co. Tenn. They have some late papers with them. Look at Appeal of 9th and Montgomery Advertiser of 11. Miss'ian of 12th. The Florida battle was a small affair but a signal success. It occurred at Camp Finnegan near Lake City Feb. 20. The enemy were driven back to Jacksonville. In Va. there has been no great battle. A heavy cavalry raid was attempted on Richmond but signally failed. Johnston has driven Grant back, Grant was feeling our force and found we were too strong. Sherman's army is moving up the Mississippi and is believed to be reinforcing Grant. Longstreet is believed to be fixing for a move into Ky. The enemy is still booming away at Charleston. The M & O R R is running to Quitman and will soon be through to Okolona. The army is in fine spirits and the prospect is bright.

The day has been pretty but cool. Pa complains much tonight of a pain in his left side. He has applied a poultice to it. He has fresh cold and it may be his hard coughing has strained his muscles. I hope it is not serious.

Gen. Kilpatrick and Col. U. Dahlgren commanded the recent Richmond raiders. Dahlgren was killed. I observe an account of a fight (small affair) near Baldwyn, Fla. on the 1st inst.

This morning was cool. Barteau's men were off for Stubbs' by sun up. Capt. Estes left a sabre belonging to Lt. Moore in my care. It will be called for. Mr. Cranor the sick man is left here. He is from Rutherford County. The soldiers left a quantity of corn on the ground which they did not use. Soldiers are a wasteful set. Saw Frank Branyan and James Young this morning, they were part of a company following some horse theives. It seems the country is full of straggling soldiers, who are appropriating horses without any regard to whoose they are. Some of these gentry went into Mrs. Mahon's farm and took a mule out of the plough. This crowd were on hot trail of the theif. He came by Uncle Jo's and went up toward Lyon's gin house. Simmons had a horse stolen last night. Dixson was in this morning, also Jno. Martin, they were on the “bonding Business.” Uncle Jo and Mr. McGee also here. She pay's me $25.00 for tuition of L S, S C & U McGee. Branyan & James Young passed back after 12 with 3 young Kentuckians prisoners. They were taken at Mrs. Nelson's. They say they have orders, but cannot show them. They took them down to Mrs. Mahon's. They found the mule in their possession. Finished my sermon drawing off the heads of a sermon of Jay on the same text.

Today thus far has been cloudy and cool. My horse is at the gate and I am nearly ready to start.

Started near 2 o'clock and rode to Mrs. Caldwell's where I spent the night pleasantly. The evening was dark, cloudy and cool.

Cloudy early, then cleared, this evening was clouded, and the entire day has been cool. Rode to Church and preached from Rom 6:21. Announced the Communion. Preaching to commence on Saturday 11 1/2 o'clock, the session to meet 10 1/2 o'clock. Dine at Maj. Wiley's and rode home this evening. Jno. Snipes is sick.

The Plenitude Company of the 23d Miss. have deserted. They have been acting as artillerists, and now they want to restore them to the infantry: they are not willing: I don't know how they will fix it up. A good many cavalry have passed up the country. A few days since a party of cavalry made a descent on the stills of Buncombe and destroyed them viz Leather's, Cobb's and Houston's. Hodge saved his by hiding it. A Capt. Rogers of the 1st Confederate Cavalry here tonight. He is on his way from Jackson, Tenn. to Dalton. Rec'd letters from Todd Young and J. D. Agnew, dated Dalton Mar. 6. Everything is quiet there. Pa has heard that below it is currently reported that there is an armistice agreed upon, and commissioners are negociating a peace. I doubt the report. Also that our independence has been acknowledged, by France, Spain and Mexico. This is also doubtful. Forrest men acted scandalously, stealing horses as they went up saturday. 3 men robbed Esq'r Nutt of a mule before his eyes. Tom Stubbs has but one left. The Mahon theives are still under guard. They will be sent to Gholson tomorrow. I understand they are on the stool of repentance now. They are shedding tears plentifully. They are young lads and I pity them, but the way of the transgressor is hard.

Today has been cool and bleak. The morning was sunshiny but this evening was cloudy, windy and raw. Wrote to N E M. This occupied the whole morning. A good many of the neighbors were in this morning, leaving the money to be taken to Columbus to be bonded. Mr. J. O. Nelson dined here. After dinner I started out to Mr. Twitchell's to deliver him the money to take off. Mrs. Brice stopped me at Mrs. Watts', and told me that Twitchell left early this morning. I think he should have informed us of his purpose, knowing that we expected to send by him. Mrs. Brice told me that Alex Simmons would start tonight or in the morning, went on to his house. He had gone to Guntown, and I had to wait till near night before he came home. I gave him the money of Absalom Lane, A. W. Beaty, A. L. Holland, J. Martin, F. Dixson, J. O. Nelson, Wm. E. Nelson, H. A. Nelson, Tom W. Miller, E. Agnew, J. Agnew, S. A. Agnew, &c. I send $140.00, Pa sends $1300.00. Pa also sends $25.00 for 1 drachm of Sulph Morphine. I gave Simmons my N E M letter to mail, but he is so forgetful that I fear he will neglect to mail it.

Rode to Aunt Rilla's, got there after dark. Sarah J. is at Richey's tonight. Met Willbanks this evening. He left Tupelo this morning. He says the armistice rumor came very straight, but he can hardly trust it. Page was at Okolona friday, and the Telegraphic operator there told him that it had been telegraphed there that an armistice had been agreed upon for 60 days. The rumor is also current that France, Spain & Germany have recognized the Confederacy.

W. P. Hay is dead. He died suddenly at home in Cass Co. on the night of Mar. 4. He was dead before his family knew it. Perhaps it was apploplexy as he complained much of his head, the day previous to his death. On the 12th the 32nd Reg't was still at Dalton. It is said that the Yankees design reestablishing their lines on the M & C R R, also that Dodge is at Decatur, Ala. fortifying &c, &c, &c. These are not reliable, or at least I do not consider them so.

Aunt Rilla's Bull was shot and killed by some person or persons unknown last saturday night. He was a fierce and good yard dog.

The morning was sloudy and dark but before 10 o'clock the sun shone out and the day may be said to have been bright, and clear. Came on home after breakfast and have not been specially engaged at anything. Bruton Gambrell was over this evening to get Uncle Wash's piano. He will use it by Uncle Joseph's consent. The day has been quiet and but little news is afloat. W. Sanders of the Ebenezer neighborhood dined here. Robison wants me to come up to Ebenezer and aid at a communion on the 2nd Saturday of April. I don't think I can go, my matrimonial projects will I think prevent. I am to let Mr. Young know that he is wanted too. I sent by Sanders a note to McDaniel requesting his presence and assistance at Hopewell on Sabbath. Lit Wages was taken by this morning a prisoner. He was sent to Gholson. The charge against him is horse-theiving. There is a squad of cavalry above us after Chisholm, Gober, Watkins and the other horse theives. Lts. Wood and Finley are the commanders. Gober was shot at 3 times last night. On saturday night Winchester Wileman's horse was taken—he thinks Watkins was the rogue. The Lees of Tallahatchie have been arrested, and sent to Gholson. They were arrested for stealing cotton from a widow lady of Pontotoc County. The theives have become numerous and bold, but the cavalry are after them & they will likely “have a hard row to hoe.”

I have nothing special to note for this day. It has been clear and pleasant. Still cool but moderating, I think. Did a little on Romans in Greek. The balance of my time was unimportantly employed. Uncle Young up this evening. He had very little news. He has heard that Watson let Lit Wages escape yesterday. Watson seems to be a bad hand to guard prisoners. James Young and Frank Branyan have gone to Tupelo today to testify in the Mahon mule case. Ham is above and sends down every few days a batch of theives or deserters to Head Quarters. By this service he is doing the country a good service. There is still a talk of recognition and the armistice, but I think it is best not to credit untill farther confirmed. There is some talk of Gholson's command being moved up to Corinth but not any reliance is placed on it. Hand cars are run to and from Burnsville to the prairies for corn now, several large loads went up last week. Thomp. Phillips let his horse run away while ploughing today, not much harm was done.

Pa finished “Beulah” today.

Mr. Brice came over this morning, and after sitting awhile left, asking me to walk to the gate with him. He asked me if I knew anyone named Annie Agnew. I told him of Uncle Jo's daughter Anna. The old man told me there was a letter at his house for Annie Agnew but it was not to Uncle Jo's Anna but to my wife. Maj. Humphreys had brought it from Ripley and Alice Boyd had written it and Mr. Gray told Humphreys that I was to marry last tuesday night. The old man insisted that I should acknowledge the whole affair. I told him I knew nobody at Starkville named Annie, and that if I was to marry last tuesday night I did not know it. I told the old man I had a matrimonial project on hand but they had it wrong, The old man then insisted that I should not wait for the R R to get up. I gave him no satisfaction. This unfortunate affair will give publicity to a matter I wish'd kept private, I expect is generally known at Starkville. It ought to have been kept private. But it can't be mended now.

Uncle Jo was over at Gardner's shop today. He reports to peace rumors as confirmed. Now it is said that Russia, Prussia, France, Spain and Mexico have all recognized us. It has been telegraphed 3 times to Okolona that there is an armistice for 60 days. The people below generally believe it. Lincoln has issued a proclamation calling upon the people to rally to the Union or all is lost. Some measures must be speedily devised, he says, or they will have no army &c. I am incredulous in reference to these peace rumors. I hope they are true but fear they are not. Holland is home, discharged. Forrest's waggon train is hauling corn from Egypt for Gholson's command at Tupelo. The day has been cloudy: this evening is rainy. Tonight the rain is falling continuously: fine for sleeping. Just as I retired Lt. Storey and Thomas passed going up the Ripley road. They have a wet ride. They report the armistice report a hoax. The recognition rumor is modified. Maximillian promises if we recognize him He will recognize us and France and Spain will unite with him. The R R will be up soon.

This morning is cloudy. Mr. Moses Cranor, the sick soldier of the 2nd. Tenn. left this morning for Tupelo or Okolona. The day throughout has been cloudy and showery. Although several showers have fallen not much rain has yet fallen, the ground (the top of it) is slick and wet. Tonight is misty. I have but little to note for the day. Select some old sermons to take down to Hopewell with me. Rode over to the graveyard with Mary. Assist her in planting some flowering and evergreen plants around the graves of Rutherford and Luther. I like to see graves showing some marks of attention from the living: it shows that the dead are not forgotten. Rutherford & Luther would have both had monuments before this had it not been for the war.

Although the evening was threatening Mary and I made the trip without getting wet. John Martin was over this P. M. He had no news. Met a Tennessean this evening. He told me that Forrest was still moving towards Kentucky and when last heard from was at Trenton. Tonight I have shaved and fixed up for an early start for Hopewell early in the morning. It is reported the Yankees are moving north from Vicksburg & Memphis.

Pa commenced planting corn yesterday and is still planting today.

Sabbath. Communion Sabbath. A pleasant day, a little clouded this evening. Rode out to Church. There were no applicants to the session. There is a lamentable torpor among the people in reference to their souls. They hear and attend the sanctuary but seem unaffected by the preach's word. It is discouraging, but it is God that is the efficient worker. Ministers can only dispense the word, and ordinances faithfully, leaving the issue to God. A large congregation was gathered. McDaniel preached the action sermon from Eph. 5:25-27. Mr. Young fenced the table and served the 1st, McDaniel the 2nd. I returned thanks and dismissed the congregation. Very few communed. More members were absent than ordinarily, and some who were present did not commune. I noticed that Polly Caldwell did not commune. There is a spiritual drought in that community. May God bless my labors to the good of that people. Announced that the fast would be observed there on the 8th. McDaniel promises to preach for me at that time for my arrangements render my presence uncertain. Mr. Young and I dined at Esq. Huston's. Mr. Black was down today. Maj. Wiley was the only elder present. Hugh Caldwell is at home but was afraid to come out, as he is absent from his company without leave. At Huston's saw Lt. Duff just up from Madison Co. Inge's Reg't is not at Calhoun Station.

Rode with Mr. Young via Hodges to the Cotton Gin Road. He went on home, I came to Uncle Joseph's and spent the night.

Rec'd $29.50 aditional salary during this trip.

Morning was cloudy and threatening. Rode Home after breakfast. The Martin box is up, these little black warblers first made their appearance on saturday the 26th inst, later than usual, I think.

The day has been quiet. I have lolled about home reading some in Medical works, anatomical and physiological. This evening a heavy hail cloud arose in the Northwest, the weight of it passed North of us, however a little hail did fall here as also a heavy shower of rain. The day throughout has been very windy, the windiest day we have had I think in this March. This evening after the shower rode down to Uncle Young's and spent the night. Met Jimmie Martin near Branyan's. He has heard that a column of Yankees 10,000 strong had gone down into Alabama from Decatur. Forces had been sent to meet them. I don't know whether there is any truth in the report or not.

This day has been cloudy and cool throughout. Sat after breakfast and left about 9 o'clock, bring the 1st and 5th vols. of Rollins History with me to read.

Before I left Cousin Laura gave me to understand that I was to marry soon—as soon as the cars got up. She would not tell me who or where or how she learned these facts. Uncle Young and James have the same impression. They think I was trying to surprise them, but the matter has leaked out, and I am disappointed. When I came home found Aunt Rilla & Sarah here. Aunt R. too had to tell me about the letter to Mrs. Nannie Agnew at Brice's and thinks that I have been trying to keep everything close and surprise them, but am foiled. She hears that I was to have married on the 8th inst. That letter of Alice Boyd's has let the cat out of the wallet, and Mrs. Brice will keep the report agoing. I very much regret this publicity of my arrangements but it can't be helped now. All that I can say is there is some mistake about it and it certainly is premature. The secret has leaked not from me but from Nannie—as it is I am the victim of the tattlers of the neighborhood. Hear that the R R will not be up in this country for 3 or 4 weeks. I earnestly trust that it will get up this week. We have no military news of importance, I may say, of any kind. Pa has commenced reading Rollin's History. Mary went home with Aunt Rilla today. Margaret is at Uncle Jo's tonight. Loaned “The True Psalmody” to Aunt Rilla today.

This has been a beautiful day, clear and pleasant. And it has been quiet too. I have noticed several passing but did not speak to any of them. Betsy Ann Martin spent the day here. Margaret got back from Uncle Jo's this morning and Mary from Aunt Rilla's this evening. Uncle Jo over this morning. He has heard that Forrest captured 2000 prisoners at Union City and they will be brought down in a few days. Some one tells him that the exploded reports of recognition and an armistice are still believed down in camps. There were 2 Gunboats sunk by some of our forces near Hamburg, Tenn. recently. Mary hears that trains will be running to Okolona on saturday. They will either be at Okolona or Egypt, she hears. Wrote to Nannie telling her that I will come down as soon as the cars reach Tupelo, which will I think enable me to be off on the 4 or 11th inst. I expect to send it by Uncle Jo, who expects to leave for camp tomorrow.

Uncle Jo passed soon after breakfast and I gave him my letter to N E M to have mailed as soon as he can. The forenoon was very pretty and clear, this evening has clouded, and it commenced raining steadily between 4 and 5 o'clock and since then has been raining continuously, and tonight is a very wet night. Even while I am writing I hear the rain drops falling on the housetops and the water gurgling through the tin gutters, a fine night for sleeping.

Cleared off my table in order to find the manuscript of my critical notes. Find them and finished today the 6th Chapt. of Romans. This evening rode over to Simmons to hear from his Aberdeen trip. He has a receipt for the whole amount and will have to go back after the certificates on the 15 or 20th April. Pa sent by him for some Morphine, but he could find none for sale.

A melancholy occurrence took place at Aunt Rilla's today between 11 and 12 o'clock. Melly shot a little negro child (Franky) of Abe and Adaline, and the child died in a half hour after. It was accidental. Aunt Rilla sent melly out with a gun (Mullinix's) to shoot a hawk. The little negroes were in great glee running after him. He wanted them to go back, and to frighten them he pointed the gun at them, when contrary to his expectation it went off, killing Franky. Melly thinks the gun was only half-cocked. The little negro was shot in the head, 5 bullets entering, 2 in the forehead, 1 at the outer corner (below) of the left eye, and 2 near the nostrils. It is indeed a sad occurrence. Poor Melly no doubt bitterly regrets the circumstance. What an admonition in reference to the uncertainty of life. “In the midst of life we are in death.” Truly as David says there is but a step between me and death.

We have no news today, of the war, or Railroad. Mrs. Brice is fixing to be off for Memphis with some cotton. Aunt Rilla sends a bale with Mrs. Bishop. Claunch passed with a bale for Mrs. Mahon today. We have not heard anything from Reeves who took 2 bales for Pa on the 11th inst. Franky who was killed today was 4 or 5 years old. Aunt R. sent for Pa and he went over there soon after it happened.

Sabbath. This has been a quiet and peaceful Sabbath. Rode out to Bethany and heard Mr. Young preach from 1 Tim. 1:16. The subject was the history of Paul an encouragement to believe. He announced public service on fast-day for next friday. As I went to Church my horse took fright beyond Brice Gin and ran with me. The bridle rein broke and I was thrown, but was not hurt.

Read Calvin as usual. Tonight have been interested in looking through the life of David Brainerd—a good and devoted minister he was. Sam (Big) Nelson was out at Church today. He left Camp friday. He told me the cars would not be there for two weeks yet. Dr. Tom Miller is just home from Dalton, he thinks 3 weeks will intervene before trains come up. So my Starkville trip is indefinitely postponed. The day has been pleasant. This evening clouded. Tonight a shower has fallen & heavy with heavy thunder: we will probably have more before morning.

This morning was dark and cloudy. As Jimmie Haddon got home last night from Dalton I rode over to see him. He walked from Tibbie, he thinks trains will not get up to Tupelo in two weeks, and it may be three weeks. The bridge across Tibbie is not yet completed. He brought an Appeal of 22 and Mississipian of 31st. Read them, noticed nothing of great importance. The general impression is that a grand move is on foot against Richmond to start after Apr. 15. The Appeal doubts the report. Longstreet is at Greenville, Tenn. Beauregard is in Florida. Fremont has been assigned to command in Florida. Gen. W. L. Smith, it is said, will succeed Meade in Va. The Appeal contains the official report of Johnston of opperations in Mississippi last summer. He blames Pemberton for sacrificing the army at Vicksburg. Hear today that Gholson's command left Tupelo yesterday morning going up. Some say that they are going to Ripley to receive some prisoners to be sent there by Forrest. He captured 2 Reg'ts at Paducah, one of them a negroe reg't. Kentucky Falkner captured Union City and took between 500 & 600 prisoners. Others have it that he is going up to reinforce Forrest. Forrest is at Jackson, but a large Federal force have crossed the Tennessee, near Savannah, and are at Purdy. This force is both cavalry and infantry. And some think there will [be] fighting above us soon. Tonight I hear that the Yankee force at Purdy are estimated at 6000. Three gentleman passed up this evening all connected with the Rail-road. They said the bridge across Tibbie would be completed last Saturday and they think that trains are running from West Point to Mobile now. In 6 days they think trains will run to Okolona. If so they can run to Tupelo against monday—they say if the Yankees keep out of the country the road will be completed to Corinth. Rode over to Aunt Rilla's and spent the night. Went to Maxwell's & gave him $5.00 in addition to $25.00 Pa had sent him to get some morphine for him at Okolona. I gave the money to Maxwell's wife, as he was not at home.

The day throughout has been cloudy and this evening is cool.

This has been a clear and beautiful day. Though early in the morning it was a little clouded. Maj. Humphreys called in with a letter for Aunt Rilla from John dated 27th. He was well. Rode over home. A. W. Beaty here and spent the day. Have been thinking a good deal in reference to a fast day sermon and have tonight finished the plan of this discourse. The text is 2 Chron. 20:3. Rode up to Nutt's this evening to inquire qbout Reeves who took some cotton from Pa to Memphis about 3 weeks ago. He could tell nothing about him, only that Reeves was an honest man &c.

Hear that there is some cutaneous disease at Mrs. Arnold's which Minor Pannel pronounces small-pox. Have heard very little news. Gholson camped Sabbath night at Kelly Mill. On Yesterday 550 prisoners were taken down the country. Forrest only captured about 40 persons at Paducah, instead of 2 Reg'ts. Understand that on saturday 9000 Yankees were 5 miles beyond LaGrange. They are after Forrest, who is at Bolivar or Jackson. I do not implicitly credit the report,

Mary rec'd this morning from some unknown friend 2 copies of the Southern Illustrated News. The illustrations are poorly executed wood engravings. These papers contain likenesses of Brig. Gen. James L. Kemper of Va. and Maj. Gen. Simm B. Buckner.

The day has been quiet, pleasant and springlike.

Had Mother to cut my hair this morning. The forenoon was clear, this evening in somewhat clouded. The day has been pleasant and springlike—rather warm. Notice the buds on the forest trees are swollen considerably and I think in a week will be green. I have been very busy all day. Wrote a fast day discourse, this occupied the most of the day. After I finished my sermon I worked on my saddle till near night. I expect to complete my saddle repairing in the morning. Have not seen anyone passing except John Holland, and he was inviting to a log-rolling at his father's tomorrow. I have not heard a solitary item of news of any kind during the day: this is an unusual circumstance. The Martin birds have returned and enliven everything by their merry chirpings. They were heard and seen on the 26th ulto but disappeared. Today they have returned. Some think one always comes 8 or 10 days in advance to explore, and it looks like it. I think I heard one chirping about a week ago. As the Martins have come I suppose Spring has fairly opened at last. Pa is reading the history of Socrates in Rollin tonight.

This forenoon has been clouded and threatens rain. The first thing I did this morning was to repair my bridle and saddle. Then I wrote a letter to Jno. D. Agnew, leaving it with Mary to send by Lt. Ed Harwell who starts monday for Dalton. Then I have fixed up for my trip to Ebenezer—and the morning thus occupied has been busily employed. Have not seen any one and have consequently heard no news. I am now nearly ready to start: & will take my watch by McAllister's for repairs. Started about 1 o'clock. From Mrs. Wilhite learn that Reeves has not been to Memphis. Get to McAllister's. He repaired my watch—the chain was broken. He charged me nothing. While there Dr. Simmons passed down the road. He told me that he was carrying a dispatch from Forrest to Polk. Forrest is about Jackson still. There are no Yankees anywhere in that country. At Paducah we were repulsed in the attack made on 24th of March. We made 3 assaults on the fort and were repulsed every time. We had 75 men killed. Gen. Thompson was killed, on the 2nd inst. Forrest drove back a party of Yankees who were advancing under Smith from the direction of Savannah. 240 Yankees were captured. Hurst was stamped near Bolivar on the 4th, 80 men were captured. Another detachment came out from Columbus, Ky. and were driven back. In all Forrest has captured about a thousand men since he went up.

Rode from McAllister's a pathway via Hall's, West's & Lathan's to Wm. Sanders where I stopped and spent the night. Lt. Bearden was there. It is reported at Okolona that Vicksburg is captured by our men. The evening has been cloudy and tonight it is raining.

This is Fast day, appointed by Jefferson Davis at the request of our Congress. Rode over to Robison's about 8 o'clock. The morning was rainy but about 10 o'clock it cleared and we rode to Church and I preached from 2 Chron 20:3. The congregation was respectable in size. After preaching rode to Robison's and spent the day. Did not partake of any food untill between 4 and 5 o'clock.

In the way of items have nothing of importance. Understand that the Tibbie Bridge has sunk in the middle and that the necessary repairs will detain the completion of the R R several days. This if true will prevent my trip south next week. Robison has been over in Marshall this week. He saw a Yankee paper of the 3d. The Copperheads are rebelling in Illinois. Large numbers are gathering to resist Lincoln. The infected district is between Mattoon and Charleston. They are encamped and fortified at some Mills in that county. Col. Mitchell had made a reconnoisance and meeting a party of the insurgents a skirmish ensued. The Federal loss was 7 killed and wounded. Mitchell was wounded. Troops are being sent there, and furloughed men are ordered there to “squelch” the affair.

John Cole died recently. He had moved to Chickasaw Co. His body will be brought to that (Cotton Plant) neighborhood for burial.

Although the morning was unpleasant the most of the day has been bright and pleasant.

Rode out to Church. Mr. Young got up by 11 1/2 o'clock. I preached from Prov. 3:6. Dined with Mrs. Ellis. This evening rode down to the Ridge and heard Uncle Young preach from 1 Tim. 1:16. The morning was clear and beautiful, but about 10 o'clock it clouded and the day has been windy, raw and with an occasional fall of rain. Old Winter is giving us another visit. Some think it will be cold enough for frost tonight. Rode with Bro. McDaniel and spent the night. Uncle Young was with me. Strong is expected at Presbytery. There is much disaffection in the Salem congregation. Things are getting along badly there. Meet Mr. Cole's body this evening. It was brought from Chickasaw and will be buried at Academy tomorrow. He was an old and useful citizen of that neighborhood. Capt. Robert J. Hill is now policemen for our district. When Cole left Hill was elected in his place.

Two joined the Church today, viz Jane Bryson and Robert O. Jones. In the way of war news have not heard anything today.

Sabbath. Communion Sabbath. The day has been very pretty— much pleasanter than the last two days. Study, go out to Church. A Large congregation was assembled. Mr. Young preached the action sermon from John 1:46. I made the prefatory remarks from Matt. 26 Chapt to verses and served the 1st Table, Mr. Young the 2d and McDaniel the 3d. The congregation was then dismissed. Came to Robison's where I dined—thus detained one hour. Started from their home 1/2 after 4 o'clock. The sun went down when I was just beyond Snow's, and I rode from Gober's home after it was close dark. Got home 1/2 after 8. Mr. Young I left at Robison' s. He sent a watch to McAllister by a Mr. Thomas and wants to see about it. Robison & McDaniel fear that there is some danger of the watch never getting to McAllister's. This man Thomas told Mr. Young he lived near Orizaba. They know no such man in that country. I hope it will all turn out right, but fear that it will not. Send Reeves a message by Dick Kelly as follows “Dr. Agnew would like to see or hear from him soon.” At home find a letter from N E M dated Feb. 8. There is no news of the cars at Tupelo yet. Uncle Jo is coming home from Tupelo friday. They are looking for them soon. So I am disappointed again. I had been calculating on going down tomorrow but will have to defer my trip another week and if I get off next week I cannot get to Presbytery. It does seem to me that those Railroad constructors are getting along very slowly.

Mrs. General Thompson staid here Saturday night on her way to her Mother's in Mayfield, Ky. Her husband was a resident of Paducah, and by a coincidence he was killed near his own home. Mrs. T. was escorted by some soldiers going to their command which is with Forrest.

This morning was perfectly clear and during the day the sun shone out warmly. This evening is clouded. Rode out to Camp Creek and fished about 4 hours and caught only 4 fish worth bringing home. I have poor luck fishing, Pa says I don't know how to fish. Margaret was out on the creek in the farm this evening, and she had much better success than I. As the dogwoods have blossomed I expect to devote much of my leasure time to this recreation. Saw a large blackish snake about 6 or 7 ft. long on the creek today. I did not succeed in killing it. This is the first snake I have seen this spring.

Walked down to Watson's this morning to hear news from the R R but got none. He came home Saturday night. This day is a blank in the way of news.

When I awakened this morning it was raining. By noon it cleared, and this evening has been bright and pleasant, but windy. We had no rain after breakfast. Today has been very quiet, and to me rather dull. This evening rode out to Dry Creek & fished a few hours but caught nothing. Pa, Margaret and Erskine were at the same business in the Fork quarter, and had nearly as poor success as myself. Tonight Mother rubbed some solution of Corrosive sublimate on some remains of my neck ringworm. It seems to be hard to kill.

A gentleman passing up the road this morning tells me that some one told him at Tupelo on Sabbath that he thought the cars would got to Tupelo today. A “big business” is looked for in Virginia. He heard that Polk's army and part of Johnston's army have gone there. This man is the only one I have seen today and he says there is no news at all below here. Everything with us is as peaceful and quiet as if there was no war raging in the land. I fear that ere many weeks we will have intelligence from Va. or Ga. which will excite the whole country.

The dog Kate has commenced dogging again.

This morning was clear and pleasant. Late this evening it clouded. Mother had the house washed and the beds sunned today. I did a little on my critical studies and looked through some old Medical Quarterlies. This evening with Mary rode down to Uncle Young's. From there I went on to Copeland's, Uncle Young being with me. He expects to go to Mobile soon, and Pa wanted him to attend to some business for him. Copeland expects tp start the last of this week as he thinks the cars will be up by that time. He learns that the gravel train already runs to Okolona. S. Bryson was there. He saw Mr. Brice who today was down about Saltillo and learned that the hand cars were ordered to be stopped as they were in the way of the trains. This is good news to me. From all that I can hear I think that a terrible battle is impending in Virginia. Our forces have I hear, been reinforced by Longstreet, Beauregard, Polk, and part of Johnston's army. Mr. Hyatt from near Kelly's Mill told me today that a Mr. Wilhite got back from Memphis sabbath night and says that the news in Memphis is that the Virginia fight is over and they are whipped. Lee has fallen on their right wing and captured it, and the balance of their army is badly cut up. And now Lee is on the other side of the Potomac. I cannot altogether credit this Memphis report. I think a battle is impending but this is earlier than I think it could come off. Another reason for discrediting it is that we hear nothing of it from below.

The Legislature has empowered the Governor to turn over the State cavalry to the Confederacy if he thinks proper.

Uncle Young found his watch matter all right at McAllister's on monday. Jimmie Haddon is at Uncle Young's tonight.

This morning was cool and cloudy. After playing a few games of checks with James rode on home, bringing the 6 & 7ths volumes of Rollin with me. The day throughout has been cool, and mostly clouded, though the sun did shine out awhile this evening. Tonight is closely clouded. Chiefly read in Rollin's 6th volume.

This evening rode over to Aunt Rilla's and spent the night. Aunt Sarah was there but she left after supper for Mr. Twitchell's who had sent for her because her brother Phil had got there from Corinth. Today I have not heard any news of importance. Some say another batch of prisoners, 500 or 300, have been sent down by Forrest. Everything is very quiet and peaceful in the country now. Pa gave me an order for his R R dividend to take to Copeland tomorrow. I notice that the forests is becoming green. This spring is regarded as very backward. The forest trees present a russet appearance. Wheat is small and thin and the ground seems cold. I have heard of no corn being up.

After breakfast I rode down to Mr. Copeland's, but found that I was too late. He started to Mobile this morning. Mrs. Copeland told me that some soldiers were at their house last night, one of them from Demopolis. He came up to Okolona on the gravel train wednesday, and they were looking for the passenger train that evening. They thought in a few days the passenger train would run to Tupelo. Dr. Bynum came up yesterday. He reports that Ham's men are ordered to Virginia. Loring has moved from Demopolis. Some think he has gone to oppose a Yankee move, who it is said have crossed at Decatur and are endeavoring to flank Dalton. Others think he has gone to reinforce Lee or Johnston.

Came on home by 11 o'clock, the ride back was cool and unpleasant, and the day has been unusually cool throughout. Such cool weather is not common at this season of the year. I have been reading Rollin. Now Achaia and Etolia now are the prominent Grecian States. I have just got through the career of Aratus, Philopoemon is just entering on the stage. The Romans too now find a place in the picture.

Rode over to Uncle Jo's this evening. He tells me that he does not think there is any good “stopping place” at Tupelo. This consideration induces me to think of having the carriage meet us at Verona. My arrangements and plans are not fully chalked out yet. I have determined to start monday, as I am satisfied the trains will be running to Tupelo by that time. I hear this evening that they are already coming to that point. It will be some time before the cars come to Saltillo, for I understand that there are 17 bridges to be built between Tupelo and Saltillo.

The sun shone out brightly this evening for a while. The authorities stopped the hand cars at Tupelo yesterday, as they were looking for the trains up, and the running of hand cars would be likely to retard and hinder regular trains.

Sabbath—Communion Sabbath. This day has been warmer than some we have had. Early it was clear but about 11 it clouded, and was closely clouded the most of the evening. Rode out to Church. The congregation was unusually small. Went with McDaniel to the stand and heard him preach to the negroes from 1 Peter 4:18. Robison preached the action sermon in the house. After a short recess I made the prefatory remarks from Matt. 26:17-30 and served the first table, McDaniel the 2nd, and Robison the 3d. McDaniel gave thanks and dismissed the congregation. After preaching go with Robison to Mrs. Watts' and dined there with him, came on home. Tonight is rainy, and as I design starting below in the morning I apprehend some difficulty with water courses.

Hear today some items from Forrest. It is said he has recently captured Fort Pillow. This place was garrisoned by negroes mostly— the garrison numbered about 500. They felt secure and at the outset hoisted the black flag and consequently no quarter given them and many were slaughtered. Forrest is said to have been slightly wounded three times in the fight. Forrest I hear had only 7 killed. Ferguson passed up through Holly Springs a few days since. Cannonading was heard in the neighborhood of Ripley on friday and it is said that the Yankees were fighting Ferguson somewhere about LaGrange. Cal Lindsay of Due West recently married a Miss McCaslin. Aunt Sarah is with us tonight.

Up early and fix for my trip below. Pa mended my stirrup-leather. Shaved &c. Miss Jane Bryson & McDaniel came in and they with Robison started for their homes about 8 o'clock. I was also busily engaged packing &c and started about the same time, taking my clothing &c in a carpet bag. Rode down to Mr. Young's and gave him my missionary report to hand in to Presbytery.

After sitting about an hour I started to Tupelo with James Young. Found Yoniba saddle-skirts deep. Reached Tupelo at 4 o'clock in the evening. Stopped a while in Ham's Camp and then rode to town. Learn that a freight or construction train runs from and to Okolona, and this train had left at 2 o'clock. We hence were disappointed in not finding, as we had heard, that the passenger train came up to Tupelo. Go to Gen. Gholson's Head Quarters to learn whether he could give me a recommendation for passports. He told me he would if I would bring a man to vouch for me. Gholson is a very plain looking and wears no clothing indicative of his rank. As we saw no chance for accommodation at Tupelo we rode back to Ham's Camp and lodged with some acquaintances. I with Uncle Jos. and James with John Turner. Hear some items during the day. Forrest is on his way to Okolona. He is going to reinforce Lee, who has already proceeded to Ala. Polk's army is at Montevallo. A movement is threatened from N. Ala. towards Selma with the view of destroying some Iron Works in that country. 250 prisoners are on their way from Forrest to Tupelo. The State Troops will be turned over to the Confederacy soon.

The small pox is being scattered in the country. A man died of it at Dr. Silman's on saturday.

This day, as yesterday, has been pretty. I did not rest well last night. The tent in which I lay was much crowded and being “scrouged” I could not sleep. James Young's horse got loose during the night and is missing this morning. Mine also broke loose but did not leave. He left about 8 o'clock riding my horse. I fear his horse will not be found. Got Maj. Ham to go with me to Head Qrs. and vouch for me. Gholson gave me a paper recommending me to passport agents. At his suggestion I went to Col. Wynn of the Conscript bureau and showing him my proofs of exemption he gave me exemption papers. I then returned to Camp, and getting my baggage I returned to Town and lolled about waiting for the train. Columbus Bigham and Mr. Ratliff went down with me. They were on their way to Tibbie to purchase corn for the destitute. About 1 o'clock the train left and we reached Okolona between 3 and 4 o'clock. Mr. Simpson & daughter Mrs. Murray of Marietta were along. Also Steph Huff, Dave Crockett, Dr. Bynum &c. At Okolona. see evident marks of Yankee vandalism. About the R R track every R R building has been consumed. Stopped with Simpson and Murray at Pound's Hotel. Cox is the bar keeper, a refugee from Gainsboro, Tenn. Walk about town and find that Okolona is a place of some importance. Got a passport from the Provost Marshall. Hear some particulars in reference to the late battle in Louisiana, but nothing very definite, Pound's Hotel was crowded tonight. I and a young gentleman from about College Hill occupied together a single bed, and we had to lie very close. The evening and night was truly cold, fires were altogether necessary for comfort. One of the most observable features of Okolona is the multitude of rats, which abound in that burg. Everywhere you go at night you can see them, and in our room which was occupied by 7 men the rats seemed to hold a carnival. They were rollicking and capering over the floor the whole night and I apprehended that before morning they would make off with some of our plunder.

Up before four o'clock in order to take the train at 5 1/2 o'clock. Left about light having paid $4.50 for my tavern bill. We left Okolona about sunup and sped on our way to Mayhew. As we passed through the prairies a melancholy spectacle presented itself at every station. The blacked remains of burnt stations, corn-pens &c were to be seen at Okolona, Egypt, Prairie, Lochaton and West Point. Reached Mayhew about 9 o'clock. A hack was there going directly to Starkville. I engaged a seat in it and went to Connell's and shaved and put on a clean shirt, but when I had finished my change I found that the negro who drove the hack had proven traitor and left me afoot. I then went to Connell's and got a horse from him, but could not get off untill 1 o'clock. Dined with Connell and as I had no breakfast it suited me very well. Pay Connell $2.00 for my dinner and 10.00 for my conveyance. Went directly to Mrs. McKell's, reaching there about 4 o'clock. Meet Nannie and make our arrangements to marry at 1 o'clock tomorrow. Enjoyed myself finely in her company. From there rode on Mrs. Nason's horse to Mr. Pressly's where I spent the night. Johnny Yates was there. He and Calvin were going a turkey hunting in the morning. Ann is teaching 5 miles from home. James Rogers is dead. He died last April. Lee's cavalry passed through that country last week on their way to Polk, who is at Montevallo. Sat up till 11 o'clock and was very sleepy as on Monday night.

I slept only a little, and did little Tuesday night. This morning notice frost at Okolona. The day has been very clear, as was yesterday. This evening was warm, and about sundown I noticed a bank of clouds in the west.

Slept very soundly last night. The morning was dark and lowering and it looked as if we would have a rainy day, but before 10 it cleared up and the day was beautiful and pleasant. Dressed and rode with Mr. Pressly to Starkville. Got my license from Dr. Bishop the probate clerk. It was completely signed and left in the office.

Bought 1 ounce of opium for Pa, it cost $20.00. Was introduced to several persons, Dr. Parker, Barry, Esq. Miller &c. Rode on to Mrs. McKell's, Robert Montgomery overtook me on the way and stopped with us. We reached Mrs. McKell's a little after the time. I was ushered into a room where Nannie was alone, and soon I lead her to “the altar” and the knot was tied by Mr. Pressly in an exceedingly neat manner. A good many of the relations and friends there. Recieved their congratulations, dined. The table was finely furnished. After dinner Nannie, now my own dear Nannie, and I took our seats in a carriage and were driven to Mayhew. We reached there about 3 o'clock. After sitting an hour the train came along and we wended our way homewards. Saw J. H. Snow at Tibbie.

Reached Okolona 1/2 after 8 o'clock—after dark. There was no hacks to convey passengers or baggage to Town. Ran over to the Hotel near the R R and was told that it was impossible to get lodgings at a Hotel in that place. Then went off leaving Nannie with some other ladies sitting near the track and tried at 5 different private houses but could not get lodgings. I then thought of Sam'l McCarly and went to him, telling him my situation, that I was there with a newly married bride, and asked him to lodge me. He did so, and we spent a very pleasant night there. Learn that the Alabama raid is a hoax and Forrest has been ordered back to West Tennessee.

This morning was threatening. We were off for home soon after breakfast. It rained on us heavily just before we reached town creek. The sun however soon shone out, and the journey home was very pleasant. We came by Judge Harris', crossing Yarnely at the ford. The water came up into the carriage. Snack'd at Birmingham and reached home before 3 o'clock. Thus ends our bridal journey.

This evening and tonight it has been raining heavily. Learn that Mrs. Brice has gone to Memphis. James Young has never found his horse yet. I fear he will never find it, and regret now that I was the unwitting cause of the misfortune.

Barteau's men are now camped at Verona. At Okolona there are 2 cases of small pox among some Yankee prisoners. The Prisoners, several hundred, were sent off friday morning by the train going below.

This has been a pleasant and quiet day. I have remained at home, doing nothing worthy of particular record. I have not heard any news and this has been a remarkably quiet day with me. It has been warm, and growing weather has come at last. The forest has become thick with foliage. Uncle Jo was over this evening. He and Hickey are both discharged from the State service.

Walk out to a hole in the creek in the field and fish a little but caught nothing.

This has been another pleasant spring day—clear and beautiful. Rode over on Tishomingo and fished till noon. Had poor luck. Caught only 3 fish this evening. Rode down to Uncle Young's taking a letter from Nannie to have mailed for her Mother. Mr. Young has just got back from Presbytery. McDaniel was Moderator. The Communion question was deferred. The next Presbytery will meet at Ebenezer on the friday before the 2nd Sabbath of September. The pastoral relation of Strong with Shiloh was dissolved and that congregation was declared vacant. Mr. Wilson and Strong were there from Tennessee. Spence and John M. Wiseman were the only elders present. At Mr. Young's learn that the wife of Reddin Smith, Sr. died yesterday of consumption. Sam McGee is still quite sick and has to be set up with. The small-pox is thick below Knight's Mill. There have been 2 deaths at Collins' between this and Saltillo. Dr. Silman has it, Mrs. Arnold at the Lyon place also have it. James Young has not yet found his horse. Some old fortune teller says the horse is taken up and is now 7 miles N W of Birmingham. I have no faith in fortune-telling, but will go over into the Corder settlement tomorrow to inquire for the horse. Some gentlemen, furloughed members of the 32nd, are here tonight on their way to the army. Wrote a letter to Jno. Agnew tonight to send by Mr. Lockhart, one of these gentlemen. Hear that Polk has moved from Montevallo towards Huntsville. Also that our pickets were driven in at Dalton a few days ago. Understand the cars came up yesterday a few miles above Saltillo, and it was thought they would get up to Guntown today.

This morning looked like drawing to rain but this evening is clear. Tonight there is a bank of clouds in the North and I notice lightning in that direction. This morning our lodgers were off by daylight. After breakfast I rode over into the Wages settlement inquiring after James Young's horse. Did not get home untill near 1 o'clock. My search was unsuccessful. This evening I took a nap. Uncle Jo was over and made a rope. Pa rode down to see Sam McGee this evening. He reports him better. Saw a gentle[man] pass late from Lauderdale Springs. He had a paper of the 25th. There has been skirmishing near Dalton and a great battle is now looked for daily. They stopped furloughing on the 20th. A fight is looked for in Va. but the Georgia fight is expected first. On the 11th there was a fight (cavalry) at Pleasant Hill, La, I think that is the place. On the 15th a battle at Grand Encore, La. Smith is too hard for Banks. Banks' Head Qar's are at Natchez. A Yankee gunboat was recently captured at Yazoo City. Cousin Laura is here tonight. The cars came up to Guntown this evening. The news of today renders me anxious to hear from Dalton. Tonight is sultry, the day throughout has been very warm. This is growing weather, Pa thinks he never saw wheat grow faster. Perspiration flows freely on the slightest exertion.

Last night we had considerable wind with some rain and every thing seems enlivened and refreshed this morning. The day however has been a little clouded and this evening we have had a succession of heavy showers and tonight is continuously rainy. The earth is fully saturated and the branches are full. Some hail fell with the rain. I have less than usual to record and in the way of news have nothing, at all at all. Finish Rollin's 6th volume. Also commenced reading “Alone” a novel by Marion Harland. I expected to have gone this evening to Mrs. McGee's to sit up with Samuel, but the rainy character of the evening prevented me.

This morning was foggy, The sun shone out pleasantly about noon. About 5 o'clock we had another heavy shower. This seems to be the period for April showers. Late this evening rode down to Mr. Young's on my way to sit up with Sam McGee. A heavy rain fell on me before I reached there, wetting me. Learning that McGee was better, I remained at Mr. Young's all night, having changed my wet clothes for dry ones soon after I got there. This evening they had a heavy fall of hail, then the ground was whitened and the hail was unusually large.

Read Appeal of the 22nd. My conviction is that a terrible battle is impending near Dalton. Privately I hear that non-combattants have been ordered out of our lines, and the men have orders to prepare 10 days rations. Bill Rowan is home having been accidentally wounded by a gun in the hands of Thad Bryson. He brought several letters, leaving Dalton on the 21st or 22nd. Pa has commenced shearing sheep today. F. A. Young was here and took 4 of his home. Mr. Brice was also here on the same business. Mr. Brice has learned that there has been heavy skirmishing near Dalton.

Have been reading “Alone” by Marion Harland today. It is a good Novel and its sentiment is good and I think its circulation is calculated to do good. Ida Ross is the heroine, an orphan girl. The scene of the novel is in Virginia and principally at Richmond. The Danas, Cary Carleton, Morton Lacy are characters that please me. Mr. Read, Josephine and Ma Read, also Lelia Arnold are bad characters. Uncle Will, Aunt Betsy and the other negro characters are pleasing to me.

The morning was lowering and thundery. Rode home after breakfast. On the way some showers fell on me. About noon the sun shone out pleasantly. Tonight is again showery. I hear thunder in the west, and the appearances indicate a rainy night. The last few days have been showery—heavy rains have fallen, and yet the sun has shone every day. These are April showers. This evening shaved up and having cut of my beard I have a clean face once more. Have not heard much news. Some soldiers were here last night, from Dalton. The fight had not come off on the 26th but was expected at an early day. Our men are confident of success but the struggle will be a terrible one. The Rail Road is completed to Baldwyn. Some soldiers from Dyer Co. Tenn. passed down this morning. They hear that Forrest captured 500 Yankees at Fort Pillow tuesday. They heard the cannonading monday and tuesday morning. It seems that the Fort had been reoccupied by white soldiers, and these have been captured by Forrest.

Learn that Mrs. Wesson above us is selling out and it is supposed she intends going to the Yankees. I know not what impells her to take this course.

Finished reading “Alone” today. It ends well, Ida marries Lacy. The moral sentiment of this tale is excellent. I place it in the same category with “Beulah” for both alike inculcate correct moral sentiments.

Sabbath. A most clear and beautiful Spring day. Study this forenoon, and at the usual hour rode to Church, and as Mr. Young was unwell I preached for him from 2 Cor. 6:19. The congregation was not large.

This evening Nannie has been unwell—probably caused by indigestion. Read Calvins Institutes. Commencing today the 2nd volume. Tonight I am very sleepy. Have heard very little news. Dick Taylor is reported to have captured 20 Gunboats on Red River. On thursday there was a collision on the R R near Baldwyn and Mr. Fleming, Chief Engineer, had a leg broken. It is expected that passenger trains will come to Baldwyn this week. On thursday there was a considerable wind, almost a storm over at Holland's, blowing trees and fence down and the roof off of some of his outbuildings.

Another clear and delightful Spring day. Pa rode up to see Reeves today. He still calculates on going to Memphis as soon as he gets his crop planted. A Mr. Smith from Holly Springs dined here. He reports the Yankees to have started out on a raid after Forrest. On thursday Grierson was at North Mt. Pleasant with 3000 cavalry. The Yankees have been pressing horses and making arrangements for this move for several weeks. Smith thinks the force has been sent up to drive Forrest away and they come from Banks' army. A heavy force is reported at Moscow, also at Holly Springs. Grenada is also reported captured, but these reports are not reliable, but they may be correct. Forrest in undoubtedly coming out of Tenn. It is reported that a large quantity of corn was sent up to Rienzi yesterday by train for his command. I think from all that I hear that another Yankee raid is immanent. A young Texan named Murphy now belonging to the 14th Tenn. is here tonight. He has been with his family near Richmond, Miss. and is on the way to his command. He hears that Lee has driven the Yankees from Decatur, Ala. This is the rumor in the country, but he does not know that it is true.

This has been another fair and pretty, day. Notice this evening a few clouds and it looks like it might draw to rain, in a few days. Have done a little on my critical studies and also read some in Rollin. A good many soldiers have passed during the day. They were in small squads, and belong to Forrest's command. It is now certain that Forrest is moving down, and his entire force is thought to be now in Mississippi. The Yankees are following him. 8000 infantry mounted, 22000 cavalry were reported last night at LaGrange. Forrest himself was at Ripley last night. On Monday the Yankees 4000 strong under Kilpatrick of Virginia notoriety entered Bolivar, and there was skirmishing there. Forrest was present himself. His troops numbered only about 150 but the fought the Yankees an hour and a half. Our men had to get away rapidly. The greater part of Forrest's command were at that time near Corinth on their way to Tupelo. Some believe the Yankees will follow Forrest. Col. Neely of Bolivar told me that this was the strongest force they had yet sent against Forrest. Kilpatrick and Grierson both have commands. Several squads of these soldiers stopped and fed before the gate, one, Joseph Allison, from near Portersville, Tenn. while handling a pistol accidentally shot himself through the foot near the toes. It is not a serious wound but very painful. Mary and Erskine spent the day at F. A. Young's.

A pretty and pleasant day. Aunt M. J. and the children spent the day here. I have very little of importance to record.

Ballentine came this morning and Pa let him have a bale of cotton to take to Memphis. Pa's object is to obtain family supplies. Nutt will have the management of the business. Pa was up to see him, and gave him this evening a bill of the goods he wants. He sends this bill because it in uncertain when Reaves gets off.

Notice this evening 5 waggons going to Memphis with cotton. The cotton trade to Memphis is on the increase. A gentleman and lady called for dinner this evening. They are walking and come from Ripley. The gentleman Mr. Teague, belongs to Johnston's army and having married in Atlanta was taking his wife to his Mother's, at Jackson, Tenn. Having left his lady at Ripley he went to Jackson and got a buggy and started back to Ripley after his wife, but when he came to Hatchie near Bolivar he heard of the Yankees and left his buggy in the care of a friend and footed it to Ripley. Now he is going up the R R and hopes to reach Jackson. It looks hard for a man & wife—almost a new bride—to have to walk it over dusty roads &c. His bridal tour is certainly not a pleasant one. In the way of news have little in adition to the reports of yesterday. Forrest left Ripley yesterday morning at 8 o'clock for Tupelo. He and staff had spent the night at Ripley There was some uneasiness at Ripley lest the Yankees would give them a visit. I heard today that the Yankees are running trains to Moscow on the M & C R R, but don't know whether it is so.

Another pleasant day. Rode up to Dickson's this morning. Made an appointment for Mt. Zion for the 1st Sabbath of June. Hear that the Yankees were at Bolivat tuesday evening and they were moving eastward. Nutt & Company left for Memphis this morning.

A young cavalryman of the 14th Tenn. called in at 11 o'clock. He reports that General Buford's command were at Baldwyn last night and had gone today to Tupelo. A courier had come in yesterday to Buford who reported that the Yankees had turned back towards Memphis. Kilpatrick does not command the column. He has command of the cavalry under Sherman about Ringgold.

See a paper of the 4th. Everything is now quiet about Dalton. The recent moves thereabout I suppose were feints. The Yankees are landing troops on York River and Rappahannock has been crossed by Burnside on monday. And from what I see, movements indicate important events in Va. ere long. Grant demands the presence and assistance of McLellan before he makes a move. Erskine went down to Uncle Young's this evening. He brings up some Mobile News for Pa dated 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 & 30th. It is a treat to look through them. Glean several items of interest. Gen. Hoke stormed and captured Plymouth, N. C. on the 19th ulto. Washington, N. C. has been recently evacuated by the Federals. See full accounts of Forrest's recent doings in W. Tenn. The Yankees are much incensed at the “massacre” at Fort Pillow and threaten retaliation. Northern finances are in a bad condition. Gold is worth 180. A crash must come if great successes are not gained soon. The federal defeats in La. are confirmed. There was a great battle in DeSoto Parish on the 8, 9th & 10. It is called the battle of Mansfield, and also of Pleasant Hill. A great battle is reported at Grand Encore on the 14 & 15th but this I do not think certain. Banks is at Natchitoches instead of Natchez. There are no official accounts that I see of the engagements. The federals however are certainly defeated. Hear this evening that Ham has been beaten in the Reorganization of his battalion by Capt. Estes. Wallis & company now belong to that Battalion. There is to be a grand review at Tupelo today by Gen. Forrest.

Another pleasant day. Wrote letters to Kate McKell and Wm. S. Agnew. Loll about home and did nothing else of moment during the day. Tonight a Mr. Robert H. Priest of Obion Co. came in and is lodging with us. He belongs to Farris' command, and left Tupelo this morning. He lives in 5 miles of Troy. Knows Grier Wood, the Moffatts and others of my acquaintances about Troy. I wrote a note by him to Grier, giving his some ecclesiastical items. Mr. Priest left Tupelo this morning. He reports having heard that the Yankees were at Ripley yesterday. He did not know their force, or anything more than that fact.

Mary's birthday. This morning when I awakened it was raining heavily and continued untill after breakfast. Forrest's scouts (Capt. Penn, Oliver Cole, and another whoose name I did not know) left for Ripley after breakfast. In the Virginia fights 6700 men had been captured by our men up to the last report, which was on the 2nd. day. Lee does not report this the greatest victory he has ever gained—that is a camp rumor. He does however report the entire line of the enemy to be retiring. The latest news from Va. was received Saturday evening. Some apprehend that things are not going well, or we would have later news.

The day has been mostly clouded though the sun shone out right pleasantly for a few hours this forenoon. This evening we have had several heavy showers of rain. One had some hail mixed with it, and another was accompanied with considerable wind. I learn that the ridge road near Watson field is blocked up with several trees blown down this evening. Everything is wet and mud is abundant. The entire family, Margaret, Erskine and myself excepted, spent the day at Uncle Young's. Read some in Rollin's 7th volume. Dixon here this evening. He hears that Price has gained a great victory in Ark. over Steele, capturing 240 waggons and 14000 prisoners. He thinks the news was brought from Memphis by Ab Siddall who got back a few days ago. Forrest scouts told me this morning that below they had heard that Price has surrounded Steele and demanded an unconditional surrender. Steele agreed to surrender if he would treat negroes as prisoners of war. This Price declined. This Arkansas victory may prove true, but I do not regard it as certain.

Mrs. Brice and her crowd got back from Memphis last night. No farther news from Virginia today. Had my shoes and boots repaired by Thompson today.

This morning was chilly. The yesterday's hail was heavy below here, and the coolness of this morning is doubtless to be attributed to the hail. The day however has been pleasant. We have today been enquiring of passers by in reference to the Virginia battle. A gentleman this morning told Pa that he had heard from the 3d days fight. That 2 Corps of the enemy had been killed and captured up to that time. Our success was more marked on that day than previously. A Mr. Grisham reports from the 4th day that the Yankees are driven back into their entrenchments, but he could not tell where these entrenchments were. But Grisham could tell very little about the matter.

Rode over to Brice's this evening. Saw Mrs. Dr. Bynum and Miss Mat Kimmons there. Jno. Kimmons got home from Tupelo at 12 today. He reports the battle ended and Grant defeated. It was fought on the Rappahannock at a place called the Wilderness and the engagement is called the battle of the Wilderness. This if I mistake not, is in the vicinity of the Chancellorsville battlefield. Gens. Pegram and Jenkins are killed, Jones (I think) and Longstreet mortally wounded. The nature of the country was such that artillery could not be used. Mrs. Brice reports from Memphis the Price victory, just as I heard it yesterday. The locality of the fight was at Pine Bluff. Borrow a Missouri Democrat of the 26th ulto. It gives an account of the capture of Plymouth, N. C. A Washington correspondent says the news from Pleasant Hill (the Louisiana Mansfield fight) is “terrible.” The later news from Pine Bluff and the Wilderness will be more and more terrible. Rode over to Aunt Rilla's with Nannie & Mary. Spend the night pleasantly. Will is under arrest for overstaying his furlough. Aunt R. has dates from him to the 9th April and from John to Apr 29.

Mrs. Sam Roman died on the 9th inst. of Typhoid Fever. Old Mr. Pearce on 20 mile died a few weeks ago. This night is cool.

Sabbath. A very beautiful day. Rode to Church: a fine turnout. Preach from Psa: 97:1, and was attentively heard. Mose Roberts got back from his captivity in Memphis this week. He has been sick and looks very badly. He represents the fare of the Irving Block prisoners as very rough. Last tuesday there was a storm below. Notice a great many trees blown down out of root, especially between Wiley's & Mrs. Caldwell's. Learn that the lines at Memphis will be permanently closed today. It is so announced in the Bulletin. Dine at J. O. Snipes. Two soldiers, Stewart, Tenn. Reg't named Clayton and the other called Sam were there, they attend public service today. They are from the neighborhood of Morning Sun in Shelby Co. and live near the Union vacancy. Sloan has not preached at Union in a long while.

Rode up home this evening. Meet Pig Allen between this and Gambrell's. He reports that on thursday the Yankees made 4 desperate assaults on Dalton but were repulsed each time with heavy loss. A renewall of the engagement was expected on friday. From Va. there is no news, later than that in the Paper of the 10th. It is thought the telegraph wires have been cut. It is known they have been fighting but no particulars. Forrest is having the road across Yonebu bottom repaired and the bridge rebuilt. Pontoon bridges are being built at Tupelo—when they are to be used we cannot imagine. Pa has a bundle of papers up to the 7th. It is reported below that Banks has been surrounded and has surrendered to Kirby Smith.

Tonight after we lay down Nannie had an attack of colic, but a dose of oil of mint and soda relieved her.

Read this morning the papers, and gathered a good deal of news. Banks is still retreating. At Marksville, La. he made a stand on the 25th of April but was repulsed with heavy loss estimated at 10,000 killed, wounded and captured. The battle of the Wilderness was fought on the 5 & 6th. The fight was severe. Longstreet & command behaved with unsurpassed gallantry. The Yankee general Wadsworth was killed, Jenkins is killed, Pegram was badly wounded. The battlefield was 25 miles below Orange C. H. in the Wilderness. Lee in his report says every advance on his (Grant's) part, thanks to a merciful God, has been repulsed. It seems that Grant with a large army is operating on the Rappahannock while Burnside with another army is on James River. Lee has to contend with Grant and Beauregard with Burnside. Our information from Virginia is so meagre that we have very indefinite ideas in reference to the state of affairs there.

Wm. Sanders here for dinner. He is on his way to Guntown after corn. He hears that Banks has surrendered. The news is said to be in a paper of the 13th. This evening rode down to Copeland's and bought some tobacco. Confederate fives are discounted now, and are worth only $3.33 1/3. I went by Mr. Young's. As I got into the road an artillery company passed going up to the country. At Mr. Young's learn that Crosslands (formerly Thompson's) Brigade had just passed up towards Corinth. Their waggon train is going along. Mr. Young accompanied me to Mr. Copeland's. By some gentlemen who dined with him today he heard that on saturday there was a general engagement at Dalton. Loss heavy on both sides. Johnston drove the Yankees back. There is no particulars of the engagement. From Virginia there is no news, and has been none for some days. Tonight saw a Prairie News of the 14th. No dispatches from Richmond later than the 11th. Then Grant was entrenching not far from Spottsylvania C. H. Lee was at Spottsylvania. There had been heavy skirmishing but no general engagement then. Since the 11th communication has been cut off with Richmond. The Yankees are on the R R between Richmond and Petersburg, Beauregard opposes them. There seems to be a lull in Va. Banks instead of having surrendered is surrounded and it is believed will have to surrender.

As I returned from Copeland's see the rear of the waggon train of Bell's Brigade pass up the road and was told that the Brigade had just gone up. Gen. Buford passed up this morning. Forrest & command are going to Corinth but no one knows his plans, Some think he is going toward Mid Tenn.

When I reached home found Nannie very sick. This morning she was sore and uncomfortable. Late this evening she had another attack of pain in her stomach, and is very unwell tonight.

5 Gentlemen, Col. Caldwell, Dr. Wright &c. from Obion Co. Tenn. here. I was chiefly in Nannie's sick room.

The day has been very pleasant. Holland here this morning & has gone to Corinth at Pa's request to see about the mule taken by Capt. Dick. Holland thinks he stands a chance to be arrested as a conscript.

Have been studying. Have selected Jeremiah 2:22 as my text. Today has been unusually still, have not seen a solitary person pass the road in either direction. I think there is truth in the report of Yankees at Ripley, though I have not heard a word from there. Sanders intended to have sent to Guntown after corn again today, but has not come, and the inference is that the nearness of the Yankees kept him from coming.

Rode over to Brice's this evening. There have been no dispatches for 2 days, consequently there is nothing later from Lee or Johnston. I do not think this scarcity of news is a favorable indication. Today has been one of the quietest we have had in a long time. It reminds me of June 1862. I have been anxious for news but have not obtained any.

Another beautiful day. Have been mostly studying. Commenced writing this evening and have written 5 pages. Took a nap this evening. Today I learn that the rumor of 10000 Yankees in Ripley was without foundation. I do not know whether McShan & Higgs started it, or only got it from some hoax maker. This evening a cotton waggon passed going towards Memphis. They report a dispatch received at Saltillo yesterday, stating that Lee has gained a great victory, driving the Yankees a hundred miles from Richmond. 31 Generals are captured. The Yankee loss in killed and wounded &c. is 45000. If this is true it is good news, but I am afraid to believe it.

Uncle Jo over this evening: like ourselves he is anxious to hear the news. We have been well hoaxed by the Ripley Yankee report. Before dinner I heard several reports of cannon in a direction E of North. I suppose it was at Corinth. It may be they are practising or firing a salute for good news. We'll be apt to hear it soon if there were Yankees about.

This has been another beautiful day, but rather warm. Wrote on my sermon and finish it near 3 o'clock this evening. A McCalla from Memphis passed down with a load of goods for sale. He has some news. Washburn is the Fed. commander at Memphis. He is a stern man. The Yankees acknowledge that they were whipped at Spottsylvania C. H. on the 8 & 9th but the Chicago Times says Lee has been defeated and is fallen back 15 miles. A heavy raid left Memphis saturday night, destination unknown. Some think they go to reinforce Sherman, others they are moving to Corinth. Willie Young here this morning, bringing me letter from Jno. Agnew, dated May 4 and 5th. A cheering revival pervades Johnston's Army now. The following friends have professed religion—Capt. J. L. Kennedy, Ed Harrell, L. Tapp, Jno. Galloway, Jan. Cappleman &c. This truly is good news. Rode down to Uncle Young's to get aditional news of the Virginia battle of which we have rumors now. If only the half of what we hear is true we have gained great and glorious victories. Two gentlemen dined at Mr. Young's today who left Tupelo this morning. A dispatch was received at 1 o'clock this morning stating that Lee & Beauregard had both had heavy battles on Saturday (14th) and tuesday (17th). One of them was at Drury's Bluff. Thirty six gunboats were destroyed. 70,000 of the enemy were killed, wounded and captured and 30 or 31 Generals killed, captured or disabled in the engagements. I suppose that the Drury Bluff battle was fought by Beauregard. The above is the news I got at Mr. Young's. I think the numbers are too great, but do not doubt but that a great and glorious victory has been bestowed on us by God. Gen. Sedgewick I hear has been killed, a prominent Federal general. From Johnston hear nothing except that he has fallen back 16 miles which is at Resaca. Holland is back from Corinth, every one is in the best of spirits. He did not get the mule Jake, Capt. Dick never having come in. At Corinth they have the report that Sherman in retreating towards Virginia, and Johnston in hot pursuit. This I do not credit. Banks' army has surrendered. He himself with 5000 men escaped to New Orleans. We have good news today from all quarters. A waggon is camped in front of the house tonight. They had started to Memphis, but hearing that the lines were closed turned back. They live near Fulton.

Very pleasant morning. Rode up to Dickson's to correct my appointment for Mt. Zion. The report was current up above that I was to preach there tomorrow, corrected by telling Mrs. D. that it was the first sabbath. Dickson has gone down to the Prairies after corn.

Came home and loll about. Understand that our troops are at Baton Rouge having pursued Banks that far. It is now after 2 o'clock and my horse is at the gate, and I will have to soon start and ride to Hopewell.

Started 1/2 after 2. Rode down without much occurring of interest by the way. Call at James Caldwell's and give him 7 dollars which Uncle Young sends to Robin Caldwell. Also at Wiley's and give him his certificate and $160. sent by Mr. Young. Went on to Jno. O. Snipes', where I spent the night. He has not made my shoes yet. Esq. Huston & Sam Pool have gone down into the Prairies after corn this week. Mr. Wm. Johnson is quite sick with Pneumonia. Wm. Wiley in still at home: having neglected to take advantage of Polk's proclamation. I think he is acting unadvisedly. Dr. M. Wilson of New Albany was murdered yesterday opposite Mr. Beard's, 1 mile from New Albany by Harison Gammel. Gammel went to Wilson's asking for the Dr. and saying that he wanted to see him about hauling some cotton to Memphis for him. Mrs. Wilson told him he had gone to Beard's. He then went there, getting there before Wilson, who had gone around by Flournoy's. When Wilson came he met him: laughed and talked awhile, and then shot him, the charge entering his left eye and killing him dead. The Gammels say Harison shot his because he had insulted his wife. Gammel is yet unarrested.

Hear that Johnston has retreated to Calhoun. The Yankees were too strong for him.

Sabbath. A very warm and bright day. A goodly congregation assembled and I preached from Jere. 2:22. Notice some markings in pulpit Bible which I suppose must have been done by the Yankees last year. I had never noticed them before and will look carefully through the book to see what they are. It is marked with a lead pencil. The passage I noticed was Jere. 2: 7: 8. I suppose he would apply it to our land and to our ministers. Dined at R. Reid's, Esq. and at 4 1/2 o'clock preached at W. Reid's from John 1:29. Good turnout and good attention.

Today at Church became sick while preaching from overheat. Capt. Sloan was out today. He is badly disfigured from his Chickamauga wound. He is now a candidate from Probate Clerk of Pontotoc Co. Wade Funk is out for the same office.

Rode over to Mrs. West's and spent the night pleasantly. Mr. Johnson is staying there.

Look over Mr. Johnson's books. He has some old rare volumes. “Ripley's Bank of Faith. Pearson's conversations, and notes on Prophecy” Bunyan's Works &c &c.

Came on home. Maj. Wiley rode with me to Thomas Grubb's. Attempted to come by way of Wages' Shop but got out of the way. Got home before 12. Loll about this evening. Have heard several items of news. Pa has News to the 14th and an extra of the Prairie News to the 19th. Johnston is certainly retreating before Sherman. There was heavy fighting at Resaca on the 14th & 15th. No general engagements has however yet been fought. Sherman's force number 100,000, and he is endeavoring to flank on both sides but has failed. Accounts from Johnston are very unsatisfactory. The latest reliable from him he was at Calhoun, his army on this side of the Oostenaula while the Yankees are on the other side. I think myself that he will have to fall back farther. Polk has repulsed the enemy in a flank movement at Rome. From Virginia nothing important. The decisive battle is yet to be fought as I infer from a congratulatory order of Lee's of the 16th. As yet we have checked ever[y] advance of the enemy, inflicting heavy loss. Steel has not surrendered, but has arrived at Little Rock with the remains of his army closely pursued by Price, and Marmaduke Banks' surrender is not yet confirmed. No facts in reference to the casualties in Virginia or Georgia.

Two gentlemen, Cornwell & Williamson of Morphis' command here tonight. Morphis' Battalion is at Baldwyn. Hear that Gholson's command is ordered to Georgia to reinforce Johnston. Tonight I hear that all of Forrests men but Neely's Brigade are ordered to the same destination.

Yesterday evening there was a cloud in the South and I understand a pretty rain fell about Birmingham. It only sprinkled here. A Mr. Mitchel of Hardeman Co. of the 7 Tenn. Reg't came here sick this morning and has remained all day. He has considerable fever, thinks he had a chill this morning. He brings word that Chalmer's Division left Tupelo for Georgia yesterday morning. Only the 7th Tenn. Reg't is left about Tupelo. Messrs. Cranor & McNight of the 2d Tenn. Reg't dined here. Buford's Division are passing down to Tupelo from Corinth today. They camped at Boonesville last night. It is supposed they go to reinforce Johnston also, Newsom's Reg't is left at Corinth. Within a few days all deserters from infantry regiments have been taken from Forrest's command and sent back to their original regiments. Their number is estimated at 2000. This reinforcing of Johnston strips this country of troops. Esq. Nutt got back from Memphis. He could not get his goods out of Memphis because the lines are closed. They are stored in a place of safety and he will get them as soon as the lines are opened, which will be maybe in a month, and may be not for 2 months. He left Memphis thursday or friday. Lincoln has issued a proclamation calling for 400,000 more troops, acknowledging that the Virginia campaign is now virtually at an end.

Rode over to Brice's. Hear that Johnston has fallen back to Marietta, and has dispatched that he thinks he can maintain his ground there untill he gets sufficient reinforcements to enable him to fight the enemy. Trains going eastward are crowded with soldiers going to Johnston's relief.

See that the General Assembly held in Charlotte, N. C. has adjourned to meet in Macon, Ga. on the 3d thursday of next May. Rev. Dr. John S. Wilson of Atlanta was Moderator. Mr. McDonald, our delegate, was present and addressed the Assembly.

The day has been dry and warm.

Mr. McCalla started back to Memphis last evening with cotton. Nannie sends by him a letter to J. N. McKill prisoner at Rock Island, Ill. to be mailed at Memphis.

Some cavalry yesterday endeavored to frighten him, by threatening to take him to Tupelo. When they found they could not extort any hush money from him, they gave the thing up. They were without authority and were working for their own pockets.

This morning we had a shower, not enough however to lay the dust. Pa rode up to see Reeves. He got the most of his goods and will bring them down in a few days. Pa saw Bill Stansell. He is now Major of the 1st Mississippi Cavalry. Will marry Miss Alice Boyd on the 1st June and then take a bridal tour to Starkville.

Rode over to Brice's after some quinine for Mitchell. Got some, but she is unwilling to take anything but green back.

In the way of news we have nothing certain. There is no news from Johnston or Lee. The general feeling is that the fighting is over with in Virginia. Johnston's present position is unknown. Some say he is still at Dalton, others at Calhoun, some at Adairsville, and still others at Marietta. I am disposed to think the last is the true place. Uncertainty also prevails in reference to the destination of Forrest's men. Some say that they are looking after a heavy raid in the direction of Yazoo City.

This evening hear that a good many Yankees are about Holly Springs, but this is also an uncertain item. Gambrell's scouts start towards Memphis tomorrow morning. James Young goes along with them.

Bright, pleasant day, a breeze rendering the day pleasanter than it would otherwise have been. Rode up to Nutt's. Got a New Orleans Era of the 12th. A convention has passed an act declaring Louisiana a free State. Today has been appointed by Lincoln as a day of fasting.

On my return home discover that Mitchell's horse had got out of the lot. After searching some time we found him grazing in the old wood lot. Mitchell left late this evening intending to go as far as Stubbs'. After dinner rode over via Aunt R's to Mrs. Mullinix's to see her about our joint certificate.

In the way of news have nothing satisfactory. Johnston has crossed the Etowah, burning the bridge behind him. The Yankee papers represent Lee in his last ditch: so the Mobile papers of the 21st report. They have captured large numbers of our men, and heavy artillery. This differs materially from our news. No one has any news, at least nothing reliable.

A Mr. Hopkins, Blacksmith, now lives in the Willbanks house.

This morning was cool and chilly. The day has been clear & pleasant. Lie about home all day. Uncle Young was up this evening to have a tooth extracted. He has been suffering from neuralgia in his jaw this week. He wants me to preach for him this week.

Several Tennesseans from off Big Creek, Shelby Co. Tenn. passed this morning, going back to Johnston's army. A scout of 110 Yankees are beyond LaGrange. At LaGrange they heard that there had been another battle had been fought in Virginia and that Grant had been driven beyond Martinsburg. From Johnston they have nothing. They hear that 4000 cavalry have gone to Johnston and 5000 have been sent to the other side of the Tennessee River. Forrest is still at Tupelo himself. These are the only items I have heard, and I do not know that they are reliable. There seems to be a dearth of news and I don't believe anyone here knows the true state of affairs in Virginia or Georgia. There have been battles, skirmishes and movements in both armies, but I am, I acknowledge, without a clear, connected or definite knowledge. Every day I hope that I will get some definite idea of affairs, but still I must say we have nothing definite. Rumors are not scarce, but rumors are not reliable.

Today looked like drawing to rain but at sundown these appearances had vanished. Rain would be gladly seen by the most of farmers now. Anderson Reeves came down today bringing our Memphis goods, for sugar he paid 20 cts pr lb for coffee 55 cts pr lb, French calico .60 cts. pr yd. He expects to start back in about 10 days. He heard from a brother who came up from Macon a few days ago that Johnston made a stand at (he thinks) Etowah river on the 19th. On the 20 & 21st there was skirmishing and on sabbath morning firing had not commenced but it was expected to open soon. This is the latest news from Johnston. From Lee there is nothing. This dearth of news is in my opinion an indication that things are not going well in Georgia and Virginia. Below it is feared that Johnston will have to give way, his force being greatly inferior to the enemy.

Mrs. Spencer came down with Reeves. She came to consult Pa in reference to her ailments. Jno. Charles Garrison is clerking in Memphis for Chambers, a dry goods merchant. Mr. Glenn brought his daughter Ann over this evening to have a tooth extracted, Pa pulled her tooth.

Tonight is a frolicsome time with our negroes. Caroline married Larkin Gambrell's Clay. The couple with attendants and candle holders came out in front of the back piazza and Big George tied the knot. His ceremony was short. He seemed much embarrassed, spoke rapidly. But when the knot was tied the party marched back to Eliza's house, and frolic was the order of the day. Thompson acted as master of ceremonies. The negro men and women were all dressed in their best and all seem to be enjoying themselves hugely.

I have a very sore arm tonight—what causes it I do not know. My head aches—from sympathy with the arm, I suppose.

Sabbath. Perfectly clear day. The nights and mornings are very cool. Tonight we had a little fire and it was very comfortable. Rode to Bethany, Uncle Young was not there, he is still suffering from neuralgia. I had to preach which I did from Psa. 97:1. Congregation was respectable in size. Came home and read Calvin. The chief subject today was Christian Liberty. Hear at Church that a dispatch was recieved from Georgia yesterday stating that Johnston, having recieved reinforcements, had attacked the enemy and driven them back 20 miles, and was still pursuing them. The locality of the battle is not stated, nor the time, but it is believed to have come off within the last few days. By the Mobile News learn that on the 19th there was heavy skirmishing near Cass Station. Our army then was North of the Etowah, and it was thought that Johnston had stopped to make a stand: the enemy occupied Rome on the 18th inst. Of subsequent movements we have no certain intelligence.

From Virginia we hear that Lee has had another fight and whipped the Yankees worse than ever, but I do not know whether any reliance is to be placed in the rumor or not. Capt. J. B. Gambrell was brought home last night wounded in the knee. I have not heard the particulars of the affair. Some negroes passed today which his command captured near Memphis. Learn that Dr. Ware's man is among them. Freeman Dixon has the smallpox I understand. The case is light. I suppose he caught it at Mrs. Arnold's. Nothing has been heard of the casualties in Virginia or Georgia yet.

Chilly morning. Clear day, warm about noon. Read the News of 20 & 21st. this morning. Late this evening rode down to see Uncle Young. He is better. Esq. Nutt was at Guntown today. He brought News of the 24 & 23d. Verbally he hears that Johnston had a fight Saturday, he thinks near Dallas, driving the enemy back. They have been driven 40 miles and Johnston still pursuing. It is said that a dispatch was recieved at Tupelo yesterday stating that they were fighting at 10 o'clock but the place was not stated. By the papers get a definite idea of Lee operations in Va. The battle of the Wilderness was fought on the 5 & 6th. Lee retired to Spotsylvania C. H. Grant having moved in that direction. From the 8th to the 20th they were fighting there I think every day: on the 10 a considerable engagement took place. On the 12th a terrific battle was fought. Early in the day Grant had the advantage, capturing Maj. Gen. E. Johnston, 2000 men and 16 pieces of artillery, and driving Johnston's division from his position. The victorious career of the enemy was stopped and the battle raged many hours with fury. The Federals withdrew in the evening. Their loss is estimated at 20,000, ours at 2,000. Col. Harding of the 19th Miss was killed. On the 20th Grant commenced a movement to our right and on the [page torn] his forces were at Milford Station and Bowling Green. To meet this movement Lee moved South and a paper of the 26th contains a dispatch from him at Taylorsville. This is on the Va. Central R R (Richmond & Frederick R R) 21 miles only from Richmond. I forget the date of this dispatch. This news seems to be rather unfavorable, Grant is not so badly crippled. He is successful in getting nearer Richmond, and the decisive battle will perhaps be fought in Hanover County soon. I have not yet a clear idea of the movements of the Butler column. From Georgia McPherson crossed the Etowah 12 miles below Cartersville on the road to Dallas, the main body of Sherman's force is in supporting distance. The battle near Resaca on the 14 & 15th is called the battle of the Oostanaula. In that engagement the Rev. J. P. McMullan and son W. F. McMullan of Ala. were killed. Lt. Col. A. J. Jones of the 27th Miss. was also killed. Our forces have withdrawn to this side of the Etowah, burning the bridge. Johnston is compelled to fall back to prevent being flanked. No general engagement though the rumor now is that he fought and whipped them at Dalton. Affairs in Virginia and Georgia are of great interest. Something decisive must happen soon. Lt. Gambrell was wounded above the knee, he charged into Memphis the morning of the 24th and brought out 7 negroes, 2 Horses were killed under him.

Still dry, though we have more clouds in the firmament than we have had for several days. Pa rode to Guntown: he has no news of importance. Mrs. Sanders passed with a waggon towards Baldwyn after noon, Uncle Young up this evening. He is suffering very much with neuralgia in his face, or rather teeth. Yesterday he recieved a letter from J. F. Y. dated near [page torn], May 17. At Resaca John Arnor was killed, several were wounded but he gave no names. Uncle Jo over this evening. He heard by Jas. White, who left Tupelo yesterday that on saturday or Sabbath there was a general engagement at Kingston, Ga. in which Johnston drove the enemy back. The battle was expected to be renewed the next day, either sabbath or monday. The loss very heavy on both sides. This much in regard to the Kingston battle I regard reliable. At Guntown Pa heard that Johnston had driven the Yankees 9 miles back, some say 20, and others 40 miles back, but these are not reliable, in my opinion. It is also said that Grant has gone back of the Rappahannock, but I don't believe it. Gen. J. E. B. Stuart died at Richmond on the 12th of a wound.

We have had rain today, several pretty showers have fallen this afternoon, which were much needed. Rode over to Mrs. Mullinnix. She prefers that I retain the certificate, as it is given in my name, and pay her the $60.00. I would prefer a different arrangement, but must acquiesce. Sam Mullinnix is home. Ham's Reg't is down about Canton. They were first ordered to Montevallo, but when they got to Columbus they were ordered to Wirt Adams assistance. It seems a move is threatened from Vicksburg. W. Agnew's name is not on the list of casualties of the 19th Reg't at Spotsylvania.

Came and went by Aunt Rilla's. Charles Stubbs married a young lady of Ripley yesterday morning, and comes today to the Okelula place where he will live this year. Saw several straggling cavalrymen hunting buttermilk. They belong to Russell's Tenn. Reg't (15th). Three companies of that Reg't go up to Corinth today. Forrest leaves Tupelo this morning for the Tenn. River, as is supposed. He takes 5 Reg'ts and it is thought he will make a big raid into Middle Tenn. From Virginia I hear no news. From Georgia nothing very definite. Johnston is driving Sherman back. There has been no battle. It is said that Sherman was in 4 miles of Dalton at last account. As soon as Johnston was reinforced he commenced retiring. I think that Grant needs heavy reinforcements to make up his tremendous losses, and there is no place for them to come from but Sherman, and this necessitates a retreat on Sherman's part. As I came home a heavy shower fell on me, wetting me so that I had to change my clothing. Rode over to Uncle Jo to see a Memphis Argus of the 20th. Saw Lincoln's proclamation of the 18th May. He proclaims a fast for the 26 ulto. and calls for 400,000 men to be out by the 15th June, saying that Grant's campaign in Va. is virtually closed. Gens. Kilpatrick & Willstachs were wounded at Resaca. Breckenridge defeated Sigel at Newmarket, Va. on the May.

This has been a rainy day. Rode down to Branyan's to get my horse shod, thinking that the rain would render the ground so that Lawyer could not do anything in the farm. But I found Lawyer ploughing and “Franklin” said he did not have more than half a season. Consequently I did not get my horse shod.

This evening Nannie has been sick—another colicy attack—and I have been closely confined to my room all evening. In the way of news I have not heard a word today. Heavy showers fell this evening. The thunder was loud—we had some exceedingly heavy and sharp cracks of thunder. A good deal of rain has fallen, and God has bestowed the “season” so much desired. It had become very dry and todays rains were welcomed. Tonight is rainy. Read this evening The Life & Travels of Bruce, which always interests me. The book possesses much interest to me.

This morning was showery. Nannie was better this morning. Rode over to Hopkins' who now lives at Willbanks' place to have my horse shod. Got it done and came home by dinner. Aunt M. J went with me, she was on her way to Aunt Rilla's. As she was crossing Tishomingo at the Hughes' bridge her horse slipped through and child both narrowly escaped injury, thanks to Providence. While at Hopkins' walked over to Aunt Rilla's. Mrs. Brice there. Hear that Drayton Bryson is home. He was wounded in the arm at the Wilderness on May 5. Will Agnew is under arrest. It is thought he will be reduced to ranks. Col. Stone of the 2nd Reg. was killed at Wilderness.

This evening ly about and read. The sun shone out pleasantly an hour or so early in the evening, but after 5 o'clock it commenced raining and has continued on till bedtime and is still raining heavily & continuously. Aunt M. J. stopped at 5 o'clock on her way home from Aunt Rilla's. She went on home through the rain. Uncle Jo over this evening fixing to clean out the well. Raised 3 large poles on which to hang the pulley. Erskine was over at Brice's this evening. He brought the News of the 25 & 26th. It has nothing later than we already have. See a statement of Steele's operations in Ark. on Apr. 22. A heavy foraging party under Williams was defeated at Poison Springs w. of Camden on the 25. Marmaduke captured a huge train from Pine Bluff. Camden was evacuated on the 26th. Price overtook him and fought him at Sabine River on the 29. Steele reached Little Rock May 2. During his expedition he lost several hundred waggons, 20 guns, 2000 men, and over 1000 stand of arms.

Sabbath. A very pretty day. Study and 1/2 after 9 rode with Holland to Mt. Zion and preached from Matt. 27:3. The congregation was not large. Dixon was out. He has still the marks of the smallpox on his face. He was taken on the 19th. The first pock appeared on the 22nd. He thinks he caught them from John Squires. I do not think there is any danger of contracting the disease from Dixon now.

As we came home met Jno. Woods. He had papers of the 2nd and 3rd. From him gather some items. We have been most egregiously hoaxed about Johnston. The battle of Kingston, the retreat of Sherman, the pursuit of Johnston, and the reoccupation of Dalton were all lies. Sherman has not retreated—there has been really no general engagement. Johnston's army is in the neighborhood of Atlanta. His Head Quarters are at New Hope Church. I do not know where this is, but conjecture that it is out towards the Chattahoochee river from Atlanta. On the 27th Cleburne had a fight, killing 700 and wounding 2200 of the enemy. His loss was 300 killed. The enemy approached under a white flag, but when they thought they had Cleburne surrounded they demanded his surrender, but Cleburne was not disposed to accede. Woods says there has been no fighting in Virginia or Georgia for a week. Grant is said to be concentrating in the Peninsula. Lee reports infantry landing at Tunstalls. The news in reference to another Yankee raid is confirmed today, but we have nothing definite. They left Moscow friday in the direction of Holly Springs. On yesterday they were reported at Salem, and the Yankees estimate their strength at 20,000. It is reported they are at Holly Springs, also at Ripley, also at Pocahontas. And tonight I hear that they occupied Corinth last night. Whether any of these reports are true or not I don't know, but there are several indications that there is truth in them. Forrest returned to Tupelo from his eastern expedition yesterday: evidently to meet this raid. I understand Roddy is with him. There have been no trains up since thursday. The troops have all been brought from Corinth, and our beef cattle are being driven from that place. These things all confirm to my mind the Yankee raid. Read this evening Calvin on prayer.

Early this morning it thundered and the day has been showery. The sun would shine out and then it would rain and so it was through the day. Uncle Jo was over and employed all day in cleaning out the well. I rode over to Brice's this evening. Mrs. Brice will not start to S. C. tomorrow: there have been no trains since thursday. She will not leave now before thursday, if then. There was a panic over on the Wire road this morning. It was reported that the Yankees were at Ellistown, and coming up the road. But it was a false alarm. The Yankees have gone down the Mississippi Central Road and when last heard from were at Oxford. Forrest left Tupelo yesterday evening, going in that direction to meet them. His force is 5000, the Yankees are estimated at 4000. Their object is supposed to be to destroy the Prairie corn. Others think their design is to hold Forrest here. From Johnston there is no news. From Lee it is reported there has been another great battle, and Lee is victorious and is doing all that the Southern people could ask of him. This news is said to have been dispatched to some Colonel last night at Rienzi. It comes from the wrong direction and I regard it as doubtful. Mrs. Turner told me that in the Baldwyn company Capt. Rowan is missing, 7 were killed and a good many wounded, but she did not know the names of any of them.

Foggy and cloudy early this morning. By 8 o'clock clock the sun shone out. This evening has been showery. Pa rode up to Reeves' today. I finished the 7th Chapt. of Romans, critical studies this evening. I give this very little attention latterly. Today we hear more of the Yankees. On Sabbath night at 10 o'clock according to some, and others say 1 o'clock, three Reg'ts of Yankee cavalry passed through Ripley, taking the Rienzi road. They camped 3 miles from Ripley, and fed off Yancey, who is “ruined.” They went on towards Rienzi, were reported at Hatchie Turnpike monday evening. Their force is estimated at from 3000 to 1500. A large infantry force of 10000 is said to be at Salem, coming on. What this move means I don't know. Russell's Tenn. Reg't is following the 3 Reg'ts of cavalry. This evening hear from Guntown that the Yankees were reported this morning 8 miles above Baldwyn. It is possible that it may be so. The news of the great battle in Va. is repeated today with some aditional facts. It was fought on last friday. Lee has driven Grant from his third line of entrenchments. Some place the Yankee loss at 70000 in the single battle, but this is too great. The papers speak of the capture of 15000. I have seen no one who could tell where this battle was fought. (Cold-Harbor, Va.) Grant is evidently acting on the defensive instead of the offensive. From Johnston we hear the oft repeated tale that he has driven the Yankees back, 20 miles, but I don't believe it. His Head Quarters are still at New Hope Church. And now some say that this Church is between Marietta and Cartersville.

This morning is dark and lowering and before breakfast it commenced raining and has rained continuously till now, and at the present time, 6:40 A. M. it bids fair to be a very rainy day. For two or three hours it rained continuously, then faired up. Tonight it has commenced raining about dark, and when I lie down it is still raining.

Many days have intervened since I wrote in this journal, but now (June 14) I will proceed to the task. On the 9th during the forenoon I assisted Uncle Jo in making some rope on our rope works. The news we had was that Rucker had gone with his Brigade towards Rienzi. General Forrest with his entire command has gone towards Rienzi. The Yankees were reported to have gone in the same direction. We hence felt very easy, thinking that for the present we would not be troubled with Yankees. Late this evening Thompson Phillips came over, telling us that Oliver Nelson had sent word down that the Yankees were coming down the Ripley road this evening, and it was not known whether they would go towards Baldwyn or Guntown. Sent the mules off to the wood lot. Went over and told Uncle Joseph of the facts, Brought the mules in at dark. We were discredit[ing] the Yankee news. The day was pleasant.

The road has been still the scene of continued travelling by the soldiers. The waggons which were captured are being taken down the road. Forrest has made a rich capture.

This morning walk over the ground near us. Find many dead horses and mules and the stench is great. Gen. Forrest passed back today. I noticed nothing special in his appearance. Understand he is in a bad humor—having been informed that the citizens have been “stealing” many of the articles from the Yankee waggons. Gen. Buford also passed. He is a large chuffy man. Gen. Lyon also went down. A good many troops passed down today. The pursuit of the enemy has been discontinued. They were followed to Salem. Some troops followed farther. At Ripley an Saturday there was a sharp fight. Pa rode over to Hollands to concert some measures in reference to obtaining some supplies from Forrest. His provisions were taken from him and were all captured by Forrest, and he thinks that perhaps he can have it restored to him. Officers tell him that they think an application will be successful. Holland and Brice will act with him. And will go down and see the General as soon as matters get quiet. 800 Yankee prisoners passed down today, under guard. It is impossible to find one who will acknowledge that he ever plundered. One remarked as he came up here's the man that caught your Turkeys. Another was heard to say here's the place where we got the wine. Some officers were among them. Nice looking men they were. A few negroes brought up the rear. The most of the negroes were shot, our men being so much incensed that they shoot them wherever they see them. It is certain that a great many negroes have been killed. The prisoners pointed out their positions here. One was in the yard, one in the road, another in the woods & one pointed out a tree and said I shot at a big fat rebel from behind that tree. A good many regiments were along, I do not know all, the 9th Minnesota, 2 Iowa Cav'l'y, 81st, 104 Illinois, &c. The day was showery.

Wrote to Mrs. McKell today in haste to give her an account of the recent battle and assure her of our safety.

Affairs are becoming quieter, but there are many still passing. Commence bringing up this journal. This evening rode over to Hollands' to see him about the proposed application to Forrest for provisions. Find the roads badly cut up by the waggons and artillery that are passing every hour. The lane of Wm. Phillips has become impassible, and the waggons go in by Mrs. Phillips house now. See several graves on the road-side. The negroes are covered with very little dirt. The stench from dead horses is almost insupportable. It is sickening to pass along the roads. With Holland rode on over to Brice's. See the marks of the battle: but not so apparent as I had supposed. His house and yard are public property now. Sick men occupy the rooms. Some poor fellows are mortally wounded. I felt sorry when I looked on the poor fellows, dieing so far from the dear ones at home. They are lying on pallets. Some Yankees are also there. The Church seems to be occupied by sick prisoners. The principle surgeon was operating on a Yankee while I was there. He was lieing on a table insensible being under the influence of Chloroform. His right foot had been amputated and his left hand 1/2 taken out. As I came home saw a gentleman just from Johnson army. On the 8th he was still about New Hope Church in quietness. See a Prairie News of this morning. It called the battle of friday the battle near Baldwyn. In Virginia Grant and Lee very near each other. The battles of the 4 & 5th of May were not decisive. In some places the lines of the armies are only 50 yds. apart. The decisive battle is yet to be fought. In Georgia the armies present about the old appearance. And the decisive battle is yet to be fought there also. The N. Y. Herald of the 8th announces that on the 8th the Republican convention nominated Abraham Lincoln for the Presidency and Andrew Johnson of Tennessee for the Vice Presidency. They are a delicious duo. Mr. Boyd, the gentleman just from Johnston's army lives near Portersville Tenn. A Mr. Sergant of this county is here tonight. He is just from Richmond on the 4th June. Luther Richey and William Agnew were well at that time. He says Lee cannot be whipped.

This morning was clouded. Went down to the Gin and stayed there while Thompson was grinding some corn. Read this morning “Hines Oregon” a prize, or rather, captured volume. Pa rode over to Brice's this forenoon to see farther about his Forrest application. He comes back rather discouraged, thinking that his efforts will be unsuccessful. He and Holland however design going to Tupelo friday to see about the matter. This morning we have news that 20000 Yankees are coming out from Memphis. This evening we learn that they have gone back. Forrest horses are much jaded, and need rest and if the Yankees would come out now he would not be prepared to meet them. This evening we have the news that Gen. Leonidas Polk was killed by a stray cannon ball in a skirmish near Marietta yesterday. This news causes a general expression of regret. Thirty or 40 more prisoners passed down today. They blame their officers. They say the stampede was worse than Bull Run. They say their officers brought in a Regiment at a time, and attribute their defeat to this cause. Wrote busily on this journal during the day.

Nannie since friday has complained much of a bearing down sensation. Pa says it is a slight attack of prolapsus uteri. It renders her very uncomfortable.

This day has been very warm. Dr. Jackson left for camp this morning. He is an excellent gentleman. Uncle Young and Laura here this morning. The 18 Miss. Reg't passed down at noon. A lot of prisoners about 2 o'clock. They numbered 30 or 40 and the most of them were negroes. Started 1/2 after 2 for Hopewell. Got our old saddle-bags at Uncle Joseph's. The evening was warm. Rode to J. Wiley's and he would have me stop, being anxious to hear the particulars of the battle of Tishomingo Creek. Snipes has made my shoes. The price is 10.00. I paid 15. in the old issue. Was very dull and tired tonight.

Sabbath. Rode to Church and preached from Psa 43:21. Dine at Snipes' and rode home this evening. The day was warm. A breeze rendered riding pleasant this evening. I have to preach at the former residence of Eli Cordez on the 2nd Sabbath of July. There is nothing new in the Hopewell neighborhood that I heard. Hear that Johnston has fallen back to within 7 miles of (the Chattahoochie river) Atlanta, and that Forrest is forwarding all the reinforcements to him that he can. Things are not going well in Georgia. The official commission promised by Gen. Buford has not yet appeared. The indications are that we will get no meat from the government. Last evening a courier post was established here but they were moved over to Nelson's on the Baldwyn road this morning. The army has moved from Guntown to Baldwyn.

This has been a rainy day. Early it was closely clouded. Pa started to Guntown at 9 o'clock. Soon it commenced raining and continued with slight intermissions all day. This evening was especially rainy. Read during the day Montfort the Rue or the French Incendiary. John Martin was over this evening. He usually comes over and chats when it is too wet to do any thing. Pa heard no reliable news at Guntown. There is nothing from Johnston or Lee. Forrest has moved south and it is reported that a big raid is coming out below. I also hear that a heavy raid is coming out from Memphis along the M & C R R. “It is whispered” that Lee is reinforcing Johnston. We have the rumor also that Banks' force has been brought to this side of the Miss. River. Also that Marmaduke and Taylor and Price have crossed and are on the way to reinforce Johnston. But these current rumors are not reliable. We hear that 20000 of the one hundred days men have recently arrived at Memphis. There are no mails to Guntown and seeing no passers we have not one particle of reliable news from any of the armies.

This has been a beautiful day, quiet, bright and pleasant.

There has been very little passing during the day. Dr. Westbrooks and a Mr. Southern of Yallabusha were in this evening. There is a report that Gholson has recently been defeated by Uankees down in the Jackson county. From Ga. or Va. there is still nothing. Uncle Jo over this evening. The Yanks are reported again to Salem but the report is not credited. Read Hines' Oregon which is an interesting volume. Gather some Pink root this evening. It is said to be an excellent vermifuge. The day has been very quiet no news seems to be stirring.

This has been a warm, very warm day. The heat has been oppressive. Perspiration has been very free. The weather for several days has been oppressive, sultry weather. This morning Pa and Erskine started to Guntown taking sacks to have corn brought up in. There has been no news today. The boy Peter belonging to Thos. G. Rice near Durhamville, Lauderdale Co. Tenn. came here last evening after the effects of his young master John S. Rice, who lies buried in front of our gate.

This evening I have delayed starting for Hopewell because it was so hot and in order to hear through Pa from Guntown whether there is any truth in the Yankee advance. I have waited now till 5 o'clock and yet Pa and Erskine have not yet come. I can only reach Sam McGee's if I get that far.

Pa came a little after 5 o'clock and had no aditional news except that we still hold Drewry Bluff. He had nothing confirmatory of the Yankee raid. Rode to H. Branyan's and spent the night. A Mr. Wilson of Panola (18th Miss.) is there sick with measles. A Mr. Mason of DeSoto is with him. The night was pleasantly spent.

Sabbath. Off early for Hopewell. Reach the neighborhood early. Preach to usual congregation from Gal 4: 4.5. Dine at W Reid's and at 4 1/2 P. M. preach from Acts 2:32. Rode over to Mrs. M. Caldwell's and spent the night. Mayes Company were conscripting in that neighborhood on friday. W. Wiley was caught but was released on promising to report at Arch Franklin's this morning, but William did not keep his promise. I think that if he don't look sharp he will be caught and shot for deserting. Poor fellow, he is, and has acted most strangely. There are rumors of battles in Georgia on the 18 and 19 but I know the report to be false.

Today was very warm, I perspired very freely while preaching. Saw in the News of the 18 an account of the battle of Tishomingo Creek by an eye witness. This the first detailed account of the fight which I have seen. He does not particularise localities.

Matthew Bryson's daughters were down from Ebenezer, they walked down yesterday. A long and hot walk they had.

Up by sun up and after praying and breakfast started home at 6 o'clock. Rode on through by Pool's, Swain's and Corder's and reached home by 10 o'clock. Mr. W. Corder told me that on friday Mr. Alex Swain in opening a shell taken from the battlefield had it to explode, and a hand of his wife was nearly torn of, and he himself was burnt so that he cannot get about. Shells are dangerous playthings.

At home I have lolled about doing nothing of great moment. The day has been very warm. Perspiration flows very freely. Pa proposed for me to go down to Oktibbeha this week. After considering the matter we concluded not to go down untill next week: then we will expect to be met at Mayhew. Uncle Jo over this evening. He has information that a dispatch was received at Tupelo friday stating that on thursday the enemy made an attack on Johnston's whole line and were repulsed with great slaughter leaving 6000 dead on the field. The locality of the affair is not stated.

Rode over to Holland's this evening in order to see an “Order Book” of the 81st Illinois picked up on the battle field. Notice nothing of special importance among the orders. They were issued by Grant, McPherson & Leggett. At Holland's hear that the Yankees were at Ripley yesterday. They are also reported to have been at Saulsbury yesterday evening. I do not know that there is any truth in these flying reports.

This has been another warm, summer day. For several days the weather has been oppressive to me. This morning we had some information from the direction of Ripley. A train of 5 waggons which had been hauling corn for our Scouts at Ripley passed. They report that the Yankees are certainly at LaGrange. Three Brigades are there and some conjecture they are rebuilding the M & C R R and design reoccupying Corinth. This new expeditionary force numbers 15000 and is under command of Gen. Andrew Jackson Smith. Gen. Forrest is concentrating and preparing to meet them. Chalmers and Wirt Adams are moving up from about Columbus. Roddy is also ordered down. McCullough was sent to Pontotoc this morning. The roads are being worked and the bridges are being built between Tupelo and Ripley. This all looks as if Forrest was preparing to meet A. J. Smith's raid soon. Aunt Rilla and Milly here for dinner, Uncle Jo also here. He had an alarm. The Yankees were reported at Gobers'. He put out his stock &c. It proved a false alarm.

A. W. Beatty was over this evening. I rode over to Brice's after 4 o'clock. The hogs have commenced burrowing into the Yankees' graves. Notice 2 skulls and the bones of an arm on a road-side. The bodies in 3 or 4 graves are exposed. At Brice's see a detail of cavalry which were sent up to look up captured property. They have some good news but I do not “swallow” it all. Burnside and 20000 cavalry have recently been captured in Va. Butler has been badly defeated near Petersburg. Gold has gone up to 235 in New York. Confed Currency is worth 22 cts. in Memphis. Morgan is at Lexington, Ky. doing much execution in Ky. Vallandigham has returned home and in a speech at Dayton bids defiance to Abraham Lincoln. Johnston's has had a fight recently. Hood's Corps attacked the enemy and took 2 outer works, 12 pieces of cannon, and many prisoners. Trains passed to Corinth today and will come every other day, it is expected.

Today we have had rain. This evening a very heavy rain fell. Uncle Young and Laura spent the day here. After dinner Maj. Wiley and J. O. Snipes came up. Uncle Jo was with them. Their object was to view the battle ground. At their request I went along. The rain detained us and we did not get off till 1/2 after 4. Find the Creeks very full. Holland went also with us. We went by the New School House and out back of Mrs. Porter's to the Fulton road. The thickets back of Mrs. P. old field present the greatest marks of the battle I have seen. Some small trees have as many as 12 bullet holes. The under growth looks like a fire had been on the ground. At Mr. A. Bryson's place our loss was heavy, charging the enemy through the open ground. Just in front of the Church the timbers shows marks of a fierce cannonade. The seats of the Church are mostly in the Yard. The Church was used as a hospital for wounded prisoners.

Got home after dark, Wily and Snipes with me. After dark Esq. Nutt came up from Guntown bringing a heavy mail: we have 13 News from May 28 to June 25, 2 Illustrated News and a letter from Mrs. McKell. Read the papers a little, looking especially at the accounts of the battle of Tishomingo Creek or Brice's X Roads as the engagement of the 10 of June is called. We have a heavy mail and it will take me several days to get through them. We now hope to get a connected account of the fights and movements of the last month. Hear today that the Yankees are moving from LaGrange up the R R and at last accounts were at Saulsbury. We hear that Forrest has ordered his troops to move to Ripley at 6 o'clock tomorrow morning, but this is doubtful.

The rain has rendered the temperature more pleasant.

This has been another warm day. Read the papers has been my principle employment. And we have so many that I find it difficult to get a clear idea of the events of the past month. In Virginia on the 30th May there was an engagement at Bethel Church near Mechanicsville—it was not a general one. June 1 there was a cavalry battle at Ashland. There was a severe and general battle at COLD HARBOR June 3. Grant was unsuccessful. Hunter with a Federal column has moved down the Shenandoah vally, defeated our troops at New Hope below Staunton and occupied Staunton. Breckenridge has been sent to oppose him. Sheridan's raiders were badly defeated at Trevillian on June 11, 12. Grant is S. of James River and Petersburg is now the point of interest. There has been a good deal of fighting thereabouts, but I have not noticed dates particularly.