hours of this rebellion. Scoured my sabre and turned it over to
the orderly so my successor can have it. Most of the boys are on duty,
some are white-washing the stables, others policing, and I find more
quiet to write than usual. Our quarters are full of boisterous soldiers
generally--sixteen makes a great noise. Have written to T. L. and must
cease this scribble to enjoy a short space of quiet inaction, for I am
in a happy, lazy mood.

By the way, our gallant old leader, General Sherman, has committed a
grave mistake in dealing with his crafty foe, Johnston. Already the
ravenous editors are pouncing upon him to tear him by piecemeal, but the
soldiers are slow to censure one whom they respect so much. I for one
doubt not his sincerity for a single moment. But, great in magnanimity
himself, he placed far too much confidence in the honor of his enemy.
General Grant goes forward. All will soon be right again. Booth has been
shot by his pursuers, thereby cheating hemp of its dues.

Chattanooga, Saturday, April 29. It has been raining at times all day
and last night. Went to town on pass this morning, got a paper
containing the cheering news of Johnston's surrender of all troops east
of Chattahoochee River. Hurrah! Hurrah! Everybody feels very good, but
we have become accustomed to good news, it does not call forth much
demonstration.

Chattanooga, Sunday, April 30. A cool, windy day. This is the last day
of the month, consequently muster day. Mustering officer, Lieutenant
Dutch, arrived 12 M. Lieutenant A. Sweet commanded the company, Hood yet
unfit for duty. After inspecting our uniforms, we were soon given
another credit of two months on Uncle Sam's account. He now owes us
eight months' pay, and I think will not pay us till he gives us a final
settlement.

All is life and hilarity in our camp, and grape-vine rumors are plenty.
General Steedman has gone to Dalton to receive the surrender of rebel
General Wofford and his command. Kirby Smith I think will soon "hang up
the fiddle". Considerable of the '62 excitement prevails. They say
orders are issued to muster us out immediately. I do not credit it yet,
and am for my own self not anxious, but am willing to bide my time or
wait till "we all go home together." Yet I must admit that my heart
beats quicker and my breath comes faster as I think of returning to
"Home, sweet home."

Chattanooga, Monday, May 1. May Day, and I begin another book in good
health and spl