April 12, 1863
I feel a battle coming near. The union army major General Joseph Hooker has been drilling everyone on battle techniques and strategies. Soldier life is much of the same routine over and over again. We are woken up early by a horrible, loud and very strange object they call a bungle, later we are taken to work on strategies and after much of a tiresome work many men just sit around waiting for their next order. Because of this I have learned how to play cards and also dominos, popular games within the camp. I have talked with many soldiers in my living courtiers and none seem to have heard of Thomas. I have told them I am looking for my brother because I cannot say he is my husband.
I have heard about a man called General Ulysses S. Grant. I have heard that he has helped with many wars and is a very brave man; it seems to me that he knows much and is willing to fight for a cause. Now I hear that General U.S Grant wishes to lead troops to Vicksburg in order to control the Mississippi river. I cannot help feeling afraid of the battle that is soon to come. I feel as though I am not ready to fight. The fear builds on and on as the time comes close to when I must back my things and leave. I hope that all will be well and I find my husband soon.
