our now almost happy Union from one place. Watered by the
creek-like Tennessee River, which made a double slant, to the foot of
the mountain, leaving the point of land on the opposite side in the
exact shape of a huge foot, hence the name "Moccasin Point", where
Thomas's batteries were so hotly engaged with Lookout during Bragg's
siege.

Here we found a photograph gallery erected on the jut of a rock--takes
pictures of objects on an adjoining point, $6.00 per dozen. He has many
very beautiful plates of the mountain scenery, prominent among them is
the Lula Falls and Lake about six miles south of the summit; but one
day's furlough would not grant us the pleasure of visiting it, so we
commenced the descent in the nearest direction, which appeared but a
short distance. For a while we went directly downward through the seam
in the rock, then by aid of trees and shrubs we kept up with ourselves.
Down, down we went, but yet no bottom, often obliged to rest. An hour's
walk brought us to the bottom and thankful for it. We wended our way to
camp, tired but well satisfied with our excursion.

We reached camp by 5 P. M. Found everything quiet. Nobody mustered out
as yet but much talk of it. 18th Ohio Battery and brigade of infantry
taken to Dalton to-day by Steedman. I understand he has made several
attempts at negotiations with rebel General Wofford, but failed. He is
now to resort to strenuous measures.

Chattanooga, Wednesday, May 3. Went on guard last night at sunset,
acting as corporal of the guard. Was on duty from 12 P. M. to 12 M. more
fatiguing I think than to stand on post. Went to town this afternoon.
Found the town guarded exclusively by negro troops, white troops retired
this morning. They must intend to dispense with some of us soon. My
health is good. News is sought with great eagerness. There are but few
cents of money in camp, and one paper often goes into every shanty.

Chattanooga, Thursday, May 4. A very hot, sultry day. Another battery
drill this morning under Lieutenant Sweet. Still the excitement runs
high. Grape-vine telegraph is very productive. Every hour through the
day has its "special items." Bets run high, with stakes mostly
"something good to eat" after the "muster out." The situation is yet
unclouded, and I can see nothing to prevent us from being sent home
soon. Bathed in the Tennessee River in the evening, drilled on the gun
after supper. Looks like rain, hope it will and cool the air.