April, Friday 15, 1864
Today I have spent sewing, all for nothing, tried the waiste on tonight and it will not fit at all. I am so disapointed . Mr. Mancoat came this evening from Memphis. Forrest still holds Fort Pillow, the Yanks are frightened to death in Memphis, how I wish we could get possession of our City once more—navigation of the Mississippi above blockaded for the present, and I hope, forever to the Yankees—they have begun to forage on the Country, supplies rather short in Memphis. Just as I was wondering what there was in this day, worth recording, Kate came in and announced to my great surprise, Margaret had a baby. I left her Cabin about an hour ago, she said she had not felt well, and asked me to bring the little Goslins in my room. I have not heard how they are getting along—no one with her except Bettie, Harriet, and Myra. I did not stay in the Parlor long after Tea. Laura and I have spent the evening nursing the Goslins. We heard the sad news that Mr. Gates and Mr. Cy Smith were both dead, belonged to Henderson’s Scouts, captured at a party, died in Alton Prison. Oh! so many of our bravest and best young men are passing away. God spare my Brothers, and bring them safe to the heart of my poor old Father.