Publisher's Synopsis
January, Friday 1, 1864 'Tis New Year, a happy one to our household. Lieut. Spotswood and Eddie came last night. Poor Eddie is greatly in need of clothes. I do not think we will have much trouble in out Gen'ling the Yanks. I have $50. G.B. left I intend to devote to that purpose. It is very cold; all nature is robed in Ice. Notwithstanding the Yanks are such near neighbors, we have had a house full of Rebels all day, four of Henderson's Scouts - Lieut. S. Eddie, Jim & Elb Jeters. Nannie and I went in the buggy over to the smugler's, Joe White, to see if we could not get some things there for Eddie, failed, bro't Lute some soap - almost froze to death - got home at dark, all just finishing dinner, had a splendid time tonight. Our Armys all seem to be Status Quo. God grant successful may be the termination of 1864 - oh! my savior I have buried the past - guide and leade me from temptation. After you, my God, then I live for my Country - God bless our leaders in Dixie. January, Saturday 2, 1864 Bettie and Uncle Elum went in town this morning horse-back. I sent $50. to Mr. Armstrong to get Eddie's suite of clothes and other articles which he needs. Poor Soldiers, this bitter cold weather I wish I had money to buy every thing they need - Lieut. Spotswood went with two of Henderson's Scouts over Nonconnah to Mr. Deadrick's to get them to bring him every thing he needs out - they promised to do so. It has been sleeting all day - three of the Bluff City's called this evening, got their dinner, warmed and went on over Nonconnah. Cousin Frazor came this evening, and we have a house full - they are all Rebels, and we always have room for them if a hundred would come. All we can do is to sit round the fire, laugh, talk and try to keep warm. Bettie and Uncle Elum have not returned yet. I feel very uneasy, as she is to smuggle Eddie's clothes. Tate is out of humor, Eddie is troubled, but I think it will all be right - yet suspense is terrible -
