MAY 7, 1865.

Sunday evening. Had company every day last week, paroled soldiers
returning to their homes. Last night a Mr. and Mrs. Adams, refugees
from Alberta, who have been spending the time in Eatonton, called to
stay all night. I felt as though I could not take them in. I had
purposely kept in the back part of the house all the evening with my
blinds down and door locked, to keep from being troubled by soldiers,
and had just gone into my room with a light, when some one knocked at
the door, and wanted shelter for himself and family. I could not turn
away women and children, so I took them in. Found them very pleasant
people. They had Government wagons along, and he had them guarded all
night. I fear there was something in them which had been surrendered,
and belonged to the United States, but he assured me that with the
exception of the mules and wagon, all belonged to himself. He said
that he left Jeff Davis at Washington in this State, on Thursday
morning last. His enemies are in close pursuit of him, offering a
hundred thousand reward to his captors.

* * * * *

MAY 14, 1865.

Mr. Knowles, our circuit preacher, came. I like him. We agree upon a
good many contested topics. He loves the old flag as well as myself
and would be glad to see it floating where it ever has.

I had a long conversation with my man Elbert to-day about freedom, and
told him I was perfectly willing, but wanted direction. He says the
Yankees told Major Lee's servants they were all free, but they had
better remain where they were until it was all settled, as it would be
in a month's time. We heard so many conflicting rumors we know not
what to do, but are willing to carry out the orders when we know them.

* * * * *

MAY 29, 1865.

Dr. Williams, from Social Circle, came this morning to trade me a
horse. He tells me the people below are freeing their servants and
allowing those to stay with them that will go on with their work and
obey as usual. What I shall do with mine is a question that troubles
me day and night. It is my last thought at night and the first in the
morning. I told them several days ago they were free to do as they
liked. But it is my duty to make some provisions for them. I thank God
that they are freed, and yet w