University of Virginia Library

May 5-14

Go to church. Mr. Meade is sick, so a Mr. Ingles (a student) reads the services and a sermon...Sue's long looked for letter came to hand on Monday. The young woman shows her colors, with a Secession Flag. Thinks it not unlikely that the epistle has made a flying visit to "Old Able." Hope he was edified, gratified and instructed in its contents. I had written to Sue the day before it appeared telling her of its non-arrival ....[Letters written.] We go to town on Thursday for the news and to do some shopping. Hear all our companies have been ordered off. The Infantry started off this morning. The Cavalry are to go Saturday-so every thing attending the ladies and machines are busy getting things well fixed as the short notices will allow. Final destination is supposed to be Culpepper Court House to guard the railroad. Jimmy and Bob come by for their shirts, bags, etc. I pack them all up and a sad task it was. They may never return but if they do it will be as a noble cousin. Mary Lewis remained in town to help on the work for the soldiers. A great deal has been done by the Charlottesville ladies and much praises are due them. A long letter Saturday evening from Sue who gives some very terrifying instances of the ill and cruel treatment received in Washington and some of the other cities by people holding Southern sentiments. By people of a Christian land? The newspapers are filled with such atrocities but these instances were told her by eye witnesses of the facts. Alas for this society of Christian charity. Sue tells me they have over 600 soldiers quartered just across the road from them and a more orderly set she never knew. Several more companies are expected up daily. Ashland must be quite lifelike just now. Saturday night 1300 troops from the South pass through Charlottesville. They are friends and have come to help us to fight for liberties.