ternoon at 3 P. M., the idol
of all soldiers. Had not seen him since we left Vicksburg before. A true
gentleman and noble patriot. Teams back from Whitesburg after rations
for men.

Huntsville, Monday, April 4. A cloudy, rainy day. Orders given us at 8
A. M. to put our tents in order preparatory to an inspection by medical
director. All filth to be removed. Dirty clothes were washed, etc. In
the evening the artillery boys listened to a stirring speech on the
parade ground by Rev. Collins, chaplain 57th Illinois, a spicy and able
speaker. Kept the crowd laughing much of the time, at the same time
encouraging and instructing each one in the duty of the hour, and had a
good effect. Sold several tracts.

Huntsville, Tuesday, April 5. Did not rain to-day but we had but little
sunshine. Watched in the hospital from midnight till 4 A. M. with Andy
Herron, suffering from severe attack of erysipelas in the face and head.
Changed wet cloths on his face every fifteen minutes. While drilling in
company in front of officers' tents, under the order of Sergeant, I and
David Evans were taken out of the ranks and Corporal Malish put over us
to drill us in front of tents for two hours by order of Captain. He was
sitting in front of his tent and said we laughed in the ranks. It being
the first time I ever was punished, I was much hurt in feelings, much
more so as it was for a crime that I am not aware that I ever committed,
and was not observed by any except Captain who was eight or ten rods
off. He was out of humor at the company drill and (it being very muddy)
as is customary, he must visit his wrath upon somebody. After two hours'
marching as culprits before the whole camp, we were dismissed, but I
felt no guilt, as my conduct was not improper.

[Sidenote: 1864 Camp Games]

Huntsville, Wednesday, April 6. A beautiful sunny day, so warm in midday
as to make it uncomfortable with coat on. Policed camp thoroughly in
morning, and company drills in the afternoon. Veterans were at last
mustered in at 2 P. M. by the mustering officer. Consisted of their
taking the oath together, thirty in number, two others being in pest
hospital. My horse brought back from the river sick. Keeler bled,
rowelled, physicked him. I guess he will be all right to-morrow. Ought
to. Played chess most of the day. New thing for me. Fascinating.

Huntsville, Thursday, April 7. A beautiful spring day, grass growing,
birds caroling. All nature seems to be pu