ed so secretly that, before I
had an intimation of what was contemplated, it was too late to take any
steps to keep the Third. I never expect to be in command of it again. It
will get into another current, and drift into other brigades, divisions,
and army corps. The idea of being mounted was very agreeable to both
officers and men; but a little experience in that branch of the service
will probably lead them to regret the choice they have made. My best
wishes go with them.

All are looking with eager eyes toward Vicksburg. Its fall would send a
thrill of joy through the loyal heart of the country, especially if
accompanied by the capture of the Confederate troops now in possession.

8. Six months ago this night, parching with thirst and pinched with
hunger, we were lying on Chaplin Hills, thinking over the terrible
battle of the afternoon, expecting its renewal in the morning, listening
to the shots on the picket line, and notified by an occasional bullet
that the enemy was occupying the thick woods just in our front, and very
near. A little over three months ago we were in the hurry, confusion,
anxiety, and suspense of an undecided battle, surrounded by the dead and
dying, with the enemy's long line of camp-fires before us. Since then we
have had a quiet time, each succeeding day seeming the dullest.

Rode into town this afternoon; invested twenty-five cents in two red
apples; spoke to Captain Blair, of Reynolds' staff; exchanged nods with
W. D. B., of the Commercial; saw a saddle horse run away with its rider;
returned to camp; entertained Shanks, of the New York Herald, for ten
minutes; drank a glass of wine with Colonel Taylor, Fifteenth Kentucky,
and soon after dropped off to sleep.

A brass band is now playing, away over on the Lebanon pike. The
pontoniers are singing a psalm, with a view, doubtless, to making the
oaths with which they intend to close the night appear more forcible.
The signal lights are waving to and fro from the dome of the
court-house. The hungry mules of the Pioneer Corps are making the night
hideous with howls. So, and amid such scenes, the tedious hours pass by.

10. A soldier of the Fortieth Indiana, who, during the battle of Stone
river, abandoned his company and regiment, and remained away until the
fight ended, was shot this afternoon. Another will be shot on the 14th
instant for deserting last fall. A man in our division who was sentenced
to be shot, made his escape.

It seems th