angs over the camp.

Papers sought for in vain this morning. Hon. W. H. Seward reported in a
critical condition. I tremble lest we be deprived of his services also,
when his great mind and ripe experience are most needed. Andrew Johnson
is to-day President of the United States. A nation in tears looks
towards him to-day for direction and guidance. God grant him power and
wisdom to discharge the trust placed upon him. I doubt not the man's
motives, but I fear that he has not the moral stability required. If he
will not set aside the public interest to follow party prejudices and
personal interest, I trust all will be well. One thing I feel a trust
in, and that is our armies are still led by the same brave and dauntless
leaders that "will conquer or die."

Grazed in the afternoon. Wrote a letter home. Sad news of the death of
Robert Banks reached us last night. Died in Hospital No. 1 yesterday.
Another void in a Northern home never to be filled on earth. A.
Trunkhill taken to the hospital late last evening very sick. No mail
yet, railroad out of repair. Trains promised to-morrow. The Tennessee
River flooding again for the sixth time this season.

Chattanooga, Monday, April 17. Splendid weather. Good appetite. Harness
and saddles unboxed and issued out this morning. Hitched up and went out
to drill. Captain Nicklin, inspector-general, was on the ground. Drilled
three batteries together. Brigade drill for two hours, did very well.
Noon by the time we reached camp. To-morrow we are to have monthly
inspection, everything being "slicked up" in preparation. A comrade took
out my horse to graze, so I had time to write to sister Hannah. No mail
yet.

[Sidenote: 1865 Drilling]

Chattanooga, Tuesday, April 18. Prepared for inspection early. Moved out
at 8 A. M. Formed west of the National Cemetery, a mile from camp, four
batteries out. After a close inspection by the Inspector and Major,
Captain Nicklin mounted his horse, and put us through brigade drill for
two hours, sharply much of the time on a trot. Our Battery was on the
flank, consequently had to "git" often. I like horse artillery well on
drill. 'Tis fun to ride a good horse through the maneuvers. "Coly" took
a team to-day and I am restored to my old position of No. 6, which I
like the best of any. In the afternoon, Inspector visited camp and
quarters, so the thing is over for this month.

Chattanooga, Wednesday, April 19. A very hot sultry day. Drilled from 8