FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 1861. Rather cooler today and windy this evening. Col Mirrick has been in bed all day and complains of his head very much. I think it originates from a billious stomach, it may be congestion. A fire last night destroyed some Govt Stables and burned up some 150 230 horses. Genl Scott [...]
Friday, 27th–We went into winter quarters here, and that with the intention of cleaning the “secesh” out of this part of the country. Our company is the only one here, and our captain is in command of the post. There are but few houses in this place, and we are quartered in a vacant storeroom, [...]
DECEMBER 27th.—Notwithstanding the severe strictures, and the resolution of Congress, there is an increase rather than a diminution of the number of persons going North. Some of our officials seem to think the war is over, or that England will do the balance of our fighting!
27 [December] Xmas has passed we had a quiet time and enjoyed a Turkey a ham and a plum pudding with the Girls Harry & John. The Wilkinses declined dining with us and I felt rather provoked at it. Lewis came from the country quite sick and has since been under treatment Dr Giddings attending. [...]
December 27th.–This morning Mr. Seward sent in his reply to Lord Russell’s despatch–”grandis et verbosa epistola.” The result destroys my prophecies, for, after all, the Southern Commissioners or Ambassadors are to be given up. Yesterday, indeed, in an under-current of whispers among the desponding friends of the South, there went a rumour that the Government [...]