From the diary of Osborn H. Oldroyd

            JULY 2ND.–This is Camp Tiffin. Our regiment was favored to-day with a large mail, and nothing could have been more acceptable. Letters from home were looked into first, and next, of course, came sweethearts. One letter was read aloud, describing the capture of a butternut camp, in Holmes county, Ohio. The fort was built on a hill, and manned with several cannon, to resist the draft. A few soldiers from Camp Chase, however, went over and soon put an end to that attempt at resistance. I regret to hear of such a disgraceful affair occurring in my native State. From other letters and papers it appears this thing occurs in many other Northern States, and of course it must give encouragement to the rebels.

            The rumor now runs that the paymaster will be at hand tomorrow, but he is about as reliable as Johnston, for we have been something like a week looking for both these gentlemen. I confess I would rather meet greenbacks than graybacks.

            This afternoon, with several others, I went blackberrying again, and in searching for something to eat, we paid a visit to a house where, to our happy surprise, we found a birthday party, brightened by the presence of no less than eleven young ladies. We asked, of course, where “the boys” were, and they replied, as we expected, “out hunting Yanks.” Well, we found it a treat to get a taste of sociality once more, after being so long famished. They were very nice rebel girls, though I think the color of the eyes of one of them was what I might call true blue. They asked us to lunch with them, which we did with pleasure. The eatables were good, and we had a splendid time–all the while, of course, keeping one eye on the girls and the other on the window. We told our experience at our last blackberrying excursion, when they assured as we had nothing to fear with them, for they were all “for the Union.” No doubt they will be whenever their “boys” come home.

July 2, 1863, The New York Herald

HEADQUARTERS, FIFTH ARMY CORPS, June 28, 1863.

THE PROMOTION OF GEN. MEADE — HIS SUCCESSOR.

The appointment of Gen. Meade to the command of the army places General Sykes in command of the Fifth corps. At eight A. M. General Meade, with his personal staff, left corps headquarters and proceeded at once to general headquarters, to enter upon his new and higher and more responsible duties. General Sykes assumed command of the corps at the same time. The whole thing was quietly done, but very few knowing or dreaming of the change.

THE SURPRISE PARTY TO GENERAL MEADE.

General Meade, on receiving notification of his appointment as head of the army, was evidently taken by surprise. To borrow an expressive political word, he has not figured for it. The powers that rule in Washington have seen fit to assign him the position. He enters on his new duties as a matter of course, and yet with modesty, and, I believe, full confidence in his abilities to rightly fill the place. This corps certainly has entire confidence in his capacity for any military position that can be given to him, and with this confidence, inspired by the able and brilliant manner in which he has led them in the engagements in which he has been their leader, their only regret is at losing him as their immediate commander.

GENERAL SYKES.

Happily General Meade’s mantle fell on the shoulders of one fitted to wear it. Every officer and soldier in the corps knows General Sykes. He has been identified with the corps ever since its organization. His military genius has shown itself in every battle in which the corps has been engaged. There is the entirest confidence in him. As yet — I am writing this at half-past ten o, to catch the eleven o’clock mail — he has made no change in his staff.

NECESSARY MILITARY CHANGES.

In the commands in General Sykes’ old division several changes necessarily occur through his promotion. Brigadier General Ayres at present commands the division, with corresponding changes in the brigade commanders. [continue reading…]

July 2, 1863, The New York Herald

COLUMBIA, Pa., July 1, 1863.

THE REBEL MOVEMENTS.

There are a large number of persons here this morning anxious to cross the river, in view of the fact that the enemy has fallen back, but the military authorities are not disposed to grant passes for this purpose at present, as we are unable to throw any troops across for their protection. I endeavored to get across to-day in a skiff, but was ordered back. A large number of persons have arrived from York and vicinity, and report that the rebels under General Early have stripped the town and cleared out. They took up their line of march westward, towards Gettysburg or Chambersburg. It is thought that the rebel army is in full retreat for the Potomac river.

THE CAUSE OF THE RETREAT.

It is said that a courier arrived at York from General Lee’s headquarters, on Sunday night, with orders for him to fall back to Oxford immediately with all of his troops prepared for battle, and the rebel soldiers were confident that a great battle was imminent.

STATE OF AFFAIRS BELOW.

A gentleman, who came up yesterday, informs me that the hills opposite McCall’s Ferry was black with swarms of rebel troops, who were part of Longstreet’s corps d’, which, he says, has a long pontoon train and will no doubt attempt to make a crossing to-day. This news seems almost incredible, now that Generals Ewell and Early have retreated down the valley; but as it is vouched for and believed here, I send it on to you. Our forces at the point, under command of Major Stevens, are wholly inadequate to prevent a crossing; but the river is very deep and rapid at the ferry, the current running at the rate of twelve miles an hour. It will be next to impossible under these circumstances to lay a pontoon bridge over it. Our difficulty is that there is no way of reinforcing Major Stevens immediately, as the troops would have to walk from Lancaster to the ferry, a distance of twenty-eight miles. [continue reading…]

July 2, 1863, The New York Herald

THE SEVENTY-FIRST IN PENNSYLVANIA.

OUR HARRISBURG CORRESPONDENCE.

HARRISBURG, June 30, 1863.

You may have heard the word ‘refugee,’ but I am sure you know but little of its real meaning. Picture to yourself, if you can, a long line of men, women, cows, sheep, chairs and babies, covered with a clowd of dust, trying hard to look tranquilly, but really appearing ridiculously […..], and you have the scene, which the […..] from Cumberland county momentarily present in their hurried flight across thee Susquehanna. When we first arrived in this city, the apathy and listless indifference which its inhabitants exhibited was truly painful, they would collect around the corners at early dawn, and sticking there till dusk, would discuss every silly rumor that reached them with staring eyes and gaping cheeks. This was some ten days ago; as the enemy neared the river, you could detect an anxious nervousness on their faces, which has at last budded into something like a show of patriotism. Yesterday and Sunday, the streets were filled with a motley crowd of citizens, all armed with muskets, and as they were formed into company’s they would be immediately marched across the river. The old men of 1812 formed in the market place this morning, each with a loaded piece, and as the seamed and gray-haired veterans went through the company movements, which many had not forgotten, the scene in its terrible and touching reality almost approached the solemn. The Governor addressed them, remarking at the same time upon the goodness of Providence for sending rain at such a time to swell the river. [continue reading…]

July 2, 1863, Semi-Weekly News (San Antonio, Texas)

            On Monday morning, about a quarter past 8 o’clock, the work house of the Powder Mill blew up, instantly killing a German, named Ernst Guenther, and a Mexican, named Ignacio Salinas, who were at work in it, at the time.  Mr. Frederick, the superintendent of the mill, had left it only a few minutes before the explosion took place.  The room was about two hundred yards from the mill and adjoining the packing room, which also blew up, thereby destroying about fifteen hundred pounds of powder.  The mill itself received no injury.  The cause of the explosion is unknown, but is supposed to have originated from some explosive or metallic substance, which accidentally got into the powder, and which the friction of the rollers caused to ignite it.  This is the second explosion that has taken place there, and we are told that it is impossible to avoid them; that they frequently occur in the very best regulated mills, where every possible safeguard is used.  How very uncertain, then, must be the lives of the operatives!

July 2, 1863, Daily Citizen (Vicksburg, Mississippi)

            We learned of an instance wherein a “knight of the quill” and a “disciple of the black art,” with malice in their hearts and vengeance in their eyes, ruthlessly put a period to the existence of a venerable feline that has for time, not within the recollection of the “oldest inhabitant,” faithfully discharged the duties to be expected of him to the horror of sundry vermin in his neighborhood.  Poor defunct Thomas was then prepared, not for the grave, but the pot, and several friends invited to partake of a nice rabbit.  As a matter of course, no one would wound the feelings of another, especially in these times, by refusing a cordial invitation to dinner, and the guests assisted in consuming the poor animal with a relish that did honor to their epicurean taste.  The “sold” assured us the meat was delicious, and that pussy must look out for her safety.

July 2, 1863, Daily Citizen (Vicksburg, Mississippi)

            Jerre Askew, one of our most esteemed merchant-citizens, was wounded at the works in the rear of our city a few days since, and breathed his last on Monday.  Mr. Askew was a young man of strict integrity, great industry and an honor to his family and friends.  He was a member of Cowan’s artillery, and by the strict discharge of his duties and his obliging disposition, won the confidence and esteem of his entire command.  May the blow his family have sustained be mitigated by Him who doeth all things well.

July 2, 1863, Daily Citizen (Vicksburg, Mississippi)

            We are indebted to Major Gillespie for a steak of Confederate beef alias meat.  We have tried it, and can assure our friends that if it is rendered necessary, they need have no scruples at eating the meat.  It is sweet, savory and tender, and so long as we have a mule left we are satisfied our soldiers will be content to subsist on it.

July 2, 1863, Daily Citizen (Vicksburg, Mississippi)

            That the great Ulysses–the Yankee Generalisimo, surnamed Grant–has expressed his intention of dining in Vicksburg on Saturday next, and celebrating the 4th of July by a grand dinner and so forth.  When asked if he would invite Gen. Jo. Johnston to join us said, “No!  for fear there will be a row at the table.”  Ulysses must get into the city before he dines in it.  The way to cook a rabbit is ‘first catch the rabbit,” &c.

July 2, 1863, Daily Citizen (Vicksburg, Mississippi)

            We have heretofore refrained from alluding to a matter which has been a source of extreme annoyance and loss our citizens.  We refer to the lax discipline of some of our company officers in allowing their men to prowl around, day and night, and purloin fruit, vegetables, chickens, etc., from our denizens, and, in the majority of cases, from those whose chief subsistence is derived therefrom.  This charge is not confined solely to those at the works, but is equally, if not mainly, attributable to the wagoners and others in charge of animals.  Several cases have come to our knowledge wherein the offenders have, in o pen daylight, entered premises, seized cattle and other things, and defied the owners to their teeth.  We are pained to learn that an esteemed citizen of our Vicksburg, Wm. Porterfield, was under the necessity, in protecting his property, to wound one or two soldiers and deprive another of his life.  We fully appreciate the fatigue, hardships and privation to which our men are subjected; but upon inquiry it may be ascertained that our city is second to none in contributing to the welfare of those gallant spirits who risk their life and limb for the achievement of an end which will make us one of the most honored people of the earth, and such conduct of which we complain is but base ingratitude.  A soldier has his honor as much at stake as when a civilian; then let him preserve his good name and reputation with the same jealous care as before he entered his country’s ranks.  But so long as this end is lost sight of, so long may we expect to chronicle scenes of bloodshed among those of our own people. We make this public exposure, mortifying as it is]to us, with the hope that a salutary improvement in matters will be made by our military authorities.

July 2, 1863, Daily Citizen (Vicksburg, Mississippi)

            Among many good deeds we have spoken of with pride by our citizens, we cannot refrain from mentioning the case of Mr. F. Kiser.  This gentleman, having more corn than he though was necessary to last him during the siege of this place, portioned off what would do him for the brief interval that will ensue before the arrival of succor to our garrison, and since that time has relieved the wants of many families free of charge!  May he live long and prosper, and his name be handed down to posterity when the siege of Vicksburg is written, as one in whose breast the “milk of human kindness” had not dried up.

July 2, 1863, Daily Citizen (Vicksburg, Mississippi)

            If aught would appeal to the heart of stone of the extortioner with success, the present necessities of our citizens would do so.  If is needless to attempt to disguise from the enemy or our own people that our wants are great, but still we can conscientiously assert our belief that there is plenty within our lines, by an exercise of prudence, to last until long after succor reaches us.  We are satisfied there are numerous persons within our city who have breadstuffs secreted, and are doling it out, at the most exorbitant figures, to those who had not the foresight or means at their command to provide for the exigency now upon us.  A rumor has reached us that parties in our city have been, and are now, selling flour at five dollars per pound! molasses at ten dollars per gallon, and corn at ten dollars per bushel!  We have not as yet proved the fact upon the parties accused, but this allusion to the subject may induce some of our citizens to ascertain whether such prices have been paid, and to whom; and if so, let a brand not only be placed upon their brow, but let it be seared into their very brain, that humanity may spurn and […..] as they would the portals of hell itself.

July 2, 1863, Daily Citizen (Vicksburg, Mississippi)

            Mrs. Cisco was instantly killed on Monday, on Jackson road.  Mrs. Cisco’s husband is now in Virginia, a member of Moody’s artillery, and the death of such a loving, affectionate and dutiful wife will be a loss to him irreparable.

July 2, 1863, The Charleston Mercury

LATEST NEWS FROM RICHMOND AND THE NORTH.

RICHMOND, July 1. — A flag of truce boat arrived at City Point yesterday with returned prisoners of war, ten political prisoners and five ladies. The boat brings a report that the Confederate troops occupy Harrisburg and York, Pennsylvania, but no further particulars.

A deserter reports the Yankee force at the White House to be 10,000 men. They are waiting for reinforcements before attempting an onward movement.

The following despatch has been received from General Stuart:

HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION

June 27.

General: I took possession of Fairfax County House this morning, with a large quantity of stores. The main body of HOOKER’S army has gone towards Leesburg, except the garrison of Washington and Alexandria, which have retreated within their fortifications.

PETERSBURG, June 30. — Northern dates of the 27th have been received here.

The Herald says that the enemy progresses slowly, but in large force into Pennsylvania. Affairs at Harrisburg bear a more quiet aspect, though the country people, with droves of cattle and horses, are rushing into the city in large numbers. [continue reading…]

July 2, 1863, The New York Herald

General Meade has commenced in Maryland and Pennsylvania, with the most promising results thus far, his active operations against the invading rebel army of General Lee. Our brief reports from the headquarters of the army of Tuesday’s brilliant operations by the Union cavalry, and the despatch announcing the occupation of York in force by the national troops, lead us to the conclusion that the lines of advance covered by the national army extend from York southwestwardly to some point near Frederick, in Maryland, thus covering on the south the entire flank of the rebel army, which appears to be rapidly retiring.

All these operations, however, were east of the Cumberland valley (the continuation in Pennsylvania of the Shenandoah valley), in which all the heavy columns of Lee are doubtless situated, between Carlisle and the Maryland border. Our forces will probably meet the enemy in strength in crossing over the dividing mountain into this valley, unless, as was reported some days ago, we are already on the west side of the mountains on the left, in which case Lee may be compelled to fall back over the Potomac river. We have no doubt that General Meade’s army heavily outnumbers that of the enemy, and that thus the strategy of concentration on the part of Lee against any point of the Union lines will not avail him. We guess that, while General Meade will bring all his forces into play, if necessary or expedient, he will take good care that no particular column is beyond the reach of heavy reinforcements. We are satisfied from Lee’s cautious movements that he does not desire a general engagement, except upon the most advantageous terms; and we do not believe that Meade is the man to allow the enemy to choose his own terms for either a defensive or offensive engagement.

It is a remarkable fact that on the very next day after the appointment of General Meade to the command of the Potomac Army we should begin to hear of the retreat of the enemy from the line of the Susquehanna. The inference naturally follows that Lee at once appreciated his danger with a bold and skilful opposing general to deal with, who retires at night clear headed, cool and collected, and who proceeds to business in the morning with the strictest regard to that all important military requisition of sobriety. In dealing with Meade it is not the question to Lee of “Philip drunk or Philip sober,” but the question of a trial of strength with a superior army, the leader of which is always wide awake and with his wits about him. Hence we incline to the opinion that the appointment of General Meade to the head of our army was accepted by General Lee as a warning to prepare for the contingency of a speedy return to the Shenandoah valley. [continue reading…]

July 2, 1863, The New York Herald

THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC.

HARRISBURG, Pa., June 30, 1863.

In company with another gentleman, I left this city last Friday morning for Gettysburg, with a view to ascertain, by my own observation, the object of the rebel invasion, their numerical force, what they were about and the probable point of their first ground attack. In all my movements I have the good fortune to be able to state that I was successful beyond even my expectations, and as I feel that a sketch of my wanderings and observations must prove highly interesting to your readers, I propose to sit down and give you the benefit of them.

THE START FROM HARRISBURG.

We started from Harrisburg in a carriage and proceeded towards Gettysburg by way of Hanover junction, reaching our destination about two o’clock in the afternoon. Here we found everything in confusion. The people were terribly scared by an announcement which had just been made by a courier to the effect that the rebels were coming in overwhelming numbers to burn down the place and destroy everything with their reach.

GREAT FRIGHT OF THE REPUBLICANS.

Many of the citizens were packing up their traps for a grand […..],” and among the most noisy of those desirous of getting off as soon as possible were several prominent republicans, who, it is said, had been very valiant and boastful when it was thought that there was no danger whatever of the rebels getting in their direction.

The panic which seemed to have seized possession of the whole town soon communicated itself to my companion, who for particular reasons of his own, said he was very anxious not to get into the clutches of the rebels; he got out of my carriage, therefore, and, in company with the postmaster of Gettysburg, proceeded towards Hanover, leaving me in my […..] glory” to meet the approaching rebels. Thus deserted, I struck boldly out and drove my horse straight in the direction which I knew the […..] backs” must take, as my object was to get inside their lines to procure all the information I could. [continue reading…]

July 2, 1863, The New York Herald

There was some apprehension in Washington yesterday that the army of General Lee might make a line of retreat from Maryland and reach the federal capital before the army of General Meade can intercept it. Some hopes were entertained that General Meade might be able to strike the rebels on the flank, and thus prevent them from reaching Washington. The good fighting qualities of General Meade are relied upon to effect this object. The army wre reported to be willing to suffer any fatigue within the power of human endurance. General Meade has issued a circular, urging upon the commanders of army corps, divisions and brigades to explain to their men the issues’ involved in the coming conflict. Homes, firesides, and domestic altars, he says, are in danger. The enemy is on our own soil; the army which has fought well heretofore, he thinks, if properly appealed to, will now fight more desperately than ever. He authorizes all commanding officers to order the instant death of any soldier who fails to do his duty. All these precautions would indicate not only the approach of a decisive battle, but the earnest and anxious anticipations of the Commanding General that the result shall be a success.

Scouts sent out from Washington yesterday report that no rebels were seen between Frederick and the Potomac, and that certainly none of them were within ten miles of Washington.

A battle took place yesterday at Hanover Junction between the Union cavalry of General Pleasanton and General Stuart force. It lasted nearly the entire afternoon, and resulted in the success of our troops. The rebels lost, according to some reports, four hundred in killed and wounded and six pieces of artillery, and according to others not more than twenty. Our loss is reported at two hundred. The accounts upon this point are evidently conflicting. Our forces occupied York on Tuesday night. Heavy firing was then going on in the direction of Gettysburg. The rebel army was reported to be between that place and Chambersburg.

Heavy firing was heard yesterday afternoon at Harrisburg, which appeared to be in the direction of Carlisle. It was reported that a heavy battle between Generals Lee and Meade was in progress; but at what point was not known. The excitement in Philadelphia continues. A resolution calling upon the President to restore General McClellan to command passed the City Council.

Immense trains of supplies have been sent back across the Potomac by the rebels, the results of Lee’s raid. Despatches from Sharpsburg yesterday state that for the past few days large forces of the enemy have been crossing at that point [continue reading…]

July 2, 1863, The New York Herald

OUR COLUMBIA CORRESPONDENCE.

COLUMBIA, Pa., June 30, 1863.

THE EXCITEMENT.

The rebels having fallen back to York, there is not so much anxiety evinced here now for the safety of the city. A large number of men were forced into the government service yesterday without authority, as the city was not placed under martial law. They were discharged this morning, and left for their homes, having seen enough of war already in this vicinity.

THE ENEMY’S PICKETS.

There is a strong picket of rebel cavalry on the hills back of Wrightsville, opposite here, who employ their time by galloping around the hills and alarming the people. They behaved very well in Wrightsville, helping the citizens to put out the fire which our frightened militia had kindled. Some of our men behaved most disgracefully. Colonel Thomas’ regiment of government pensioners fled in every direction upon the approach of the enemy. Many of the men were ignominously captured, and the rest of them are scattered all over the country for miles.

THE COMMANDER HERE.

Colonel J. G. Frick, who commands our forces here, has made as good a defence of the place as could be expected. He is ably seconded by Major Heller, of Lancaster. They were both connected with the Twenty-seventh regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, nine months drafted men. Just before the rebels entered York, Surgeon Palmer, at that place, received a telegram to know how many convalescents he had who were fit for active service. Surgeon P. Reported two hundred and ten men for duty, and word was sent back to organize them into companies, and arms would be sent them from Harrisburg. These men were armed, made a feeble defence, and then were all captured and stripped by the rebels. Surgeon Palmer is travelling around York on parole. He will no doubt be taken to Richmond when the rebels retreat. [continue reading…]

July 2, 1863, The New York Herald

FREDERICK, Md., June 28, 1863.

THE CHANGE OF COMMAND.

Major General George G. Meade this morning received orders from Washington to relieve General Hooker of the command of the Army of the Potomac, and has already entered upon the discharge of his duties as General-in-Chief. The order was brought out by Colonel Hardie, of the War Department, by a special train, which left Washington at eight o’clock last evening and arrived here at half-past one o’clock this morning. General Meade had previously been apprised of his selection for the command by telegraph. Colonel Hardie waited upon him immediately on his arrival here and delivered to him the official orders clothing him with authority.

THE SUPERSEDURE OF GENERAL HOOKER is variously received. To some it is a cause of great rejoicing, while others esteem it an injustice to a brave and able soldier. Indeed, I am forced to believe that, had General Hooker rid himself of certain obnoxious persons attached to his staff, his removal now would have been generally regretted. His Chief of Staff,
GENERAL BUTTERFIELD, has rendered himself disagreeable to a remarkable extent throughout the army, and the arbitrary course he has assumed, with the many petty annoyances he has found occasion to inflict upon those having business with the headquarters of the army, have conspired to create a wide spread dislike for his principal. General Hooker, besides being a gallant and competent soldier, has the reputation of being a courteous and affable gentleman, approachable to all and exceedingly benevolent and kind in his disposition and manners. Had his immediate representatives been gifted with the like good qualities there would now be no one to exult in his release from the command.

WHY HOOKER RESIGNED.

There are various theories afloat as to the immediate cause of the change in the command. There is no question that Hooker was relieved at his own request.

He has found it inconsistent with his honor as a soldier, longer to submit to the dictation of Halleck, and, therefore he has preferred the request to be relieved. It is known that the movements of the army in the present campaign have not conformed with his own ideas of policy and correct military principles. He has submitted plans of his own which he has not [continue reading…]

1st. Went to the 1st Ky. and borrowed a day’s rations. A very hot sultry day. Everyone trying to find cool shade, almost impossible. The rash broken out on me makes me a great deal of trouble. Keeps me awake nights and gives me very little rest. Got some blackberries.

Wednesday, 1st–A detail of the Seventeenth Iowa came out this morning to relieve us, and a team came this afternoon to haul our baggage, but we have not yet received orders to leave. Captain McLoney went down to the headquarters of the picket officers to get an order to move. The report is that our men blew up another rebel fort. It is said that a man on one of our mortar boats made a wager that he could pull the lanyard longer and fire a larger number of shells than any of his comrades, but he was overcome by the concussion and dropped dead just as he stepped from the boat. He gave up his life for a vain wish.

Lagrange, Tenn., July 1, 1863.

Everything moves quietly here. No more alarms or anything else to “bust” the confounded monotony of garrison life. A guerrilla was brought in yesterday who has murdered at least one of our soldiers, and an unarmed one at that. He rests comfortably now with a nice lot of jewelry on his arms and legs, and a good heavy chain connecting his precious body to his bed, a not very soft plank. He is a worse fellow than we have in Illinois to my knowledge. We have two regiments of negroes here now, great big, stout, hardy fellows, and they really look right well in their uniforms. I heard from old Company “E” of the 8th this morning. They have had two men killed and five wounded before Vicksburg. There are only 15 left now. Wonder where my bones would have been if I had stayed with the boys.

A woman from Holly Springs is up to-day with the statement that Johnston is marching on Memphis, and proposes to have possession thereof within ten days. Good for Joseph! We had a confirmation of the report of the taking of Port Hudson yesterday, but nothing further to-day. It don’t go down here without a good deal of forcing.

Isn’t it music to hear those Pennsylvania fellers howl? I almost wish that Lee would cut the levee of Lake Ontario, and let the water over that country. Don’t tell father and mother. If Lee don’t wake them up to a sense of their misery, he isn’t the man that Price is. If ever Price reaches Illinois, and he swears he’s going to do it some day, you can reckon on seeing a smoke, sure! Don’t you folks feel a little blue over Lee’s move? Kind o’ as though you wish you hadn’t gone and done it! Never mind, you’ll get used to it. The first raid isn’t a sample. Wait until general Rebel somebody, establishes his headquarters in Canton, and you’ve all taken the oath of allegiance to the Confederacy. Imagine yourself going up to the headquarters with your oath in your hand and tears in your eyes to ask the general to please keep the soldiers from tearing the boards off your house (for bunks), or asking for something to eat out of his commissary department, and then blubber right out and tell him that the soldiers broke open your trunks and took your clothes and what little money you had, and you don’t know what in the world you’ll do. Many of these people are in this condition, and I hear a hundred of them tell the story every week. Every man in Illinois ought to die on the border rather than allow an invading force to march into our State.

July, Wednesday 1.—Yanks have worked up with their outpost ditches, until they are within forty to one hundred yards almost all around our lines. Tried to blow some of our works, but did not pay them for their trouble. Water getting very low.

(Note: picture is of an unidentified Confederate soldier.)

July 1st. Commences with clear and pleasant weather; at nine A. M., inspected crew at quarters; at ten thirty steamer Estrella came down the river and communicated with us; our naval battery below has been firing steadily all day, but the rebels did not reply.