lle by 11
A. M. Found the old camp on Russell Hill much agitated from the numerous
and conflicting orders to march received yesterday, one of which was to
march at daylight this morning. All the baggage reduced as much as
possible, only two wagons allowed to a battery. Nearly everybody is busy
at work packing up boxes to be sent home, all containing superfluous
clothing. E. W. E., T. J. H., G. T. and myself packed one of a similar
nature. I sent my old friendly overcoat that has comforted me for nearly
twenty months, and a pair of rebel spurs bought at Vicksburg from a
prisoner, and worn all through last fall campaign, now worn out. Eyes
very sore to-night after marching, inflamed and red; bathed them
tenderly.

Huntsville, Friday, April 29. Hot and sultry day. Health very good with
exceptions. Took the box to the express office in the morning; had to
obtain a permit from Provost Marshal. The express office was crowded so
that I had to wait nearly two hours. Boxes, barrels and bundles--no end
to them! The four-gun organization was completed. Men distributed and
Sergeant Dixon has charge of second piece, hence I have 3rd Platoon.
Drilled Battery two hours in the afternoon on grass plat near depot,
pleasant if it was not so warm. Everybody is ready for the speediest
word, no more ever inquiring where we are to go, accepting the result as
immaterial.

Huntsville, Saturday, April 30. Probabilities of a march greatly
lessened. To-day 3rd Division assigned to guard the line of
communication from Stevenson to Decatur, nearly eighty miles of road.
The duty will be very heavy for infantry and active for all, if the
enemy assume the offensive. 3rd Brigade under General Matthies left this
morning on the railroad to Decatur where they will relieve General
Dodge's troops. Rainy forenoon. Went after rations to town. Sanitary
gave us a mess of vegetables, etc.

Huntsville, Sunday, May 1. On guard as supernumerary, and instead of
attending Sabbath school at 9 A. M. as I would wish, I underwent the
ceremony of brigade guard mounting, inspection of arms, drums and fifes,
etc. for nearly an hour. A very beautiful day. Two brigades of Dodge's
command came in this afternoon, one from Athens, the other from Pulaski.
They go to join in the forward movement. Gen. John A. Logan left to-day
with staff and escort for the front, a gay and dashing cavalcade. May
the rebels tremble when they hear his approach.

[Sidenote: 1864 Real Yank