Diary of Henry Gerard Hall 1870 January First, 1870 (Transcribed on the night of January 6th). It was damp cloudy and cool in morning - clear and cold in the evening, I went to my office as usual - got some books for the children presented by Mr. Kennedy and bought some things from him for a present to the little Gill orphans. Afternoon, I bought some corn hay & bran far the cattle, & wine for us people; I had great difficulty in getting a dray to haul out the load. Rode out in the hack. Mr. Heffner came for his demijohn & sat a while at night. I had a little headache. Sunday January 2nd, 1870 I rode on horseback to church, but failed to get to the church meeting at 3 p.m. Remained at home the rest of the day, Uncle George Moore came in the evening with Frank who serves in the employment of McCutchen & Co. Monday, Jany 3, 1870 I intended to stay at home most of the day attending to some improvement, but went down to my office, then to the Police Jury room, Met Harris who comes to look after his reward, Got scrip from V. H. Jones & paid my Parish tax (license). Tuesday Jany 4th, 1870 I was much occupied with Harris' business today. The Police Jury refused to act on his claim. We looked for files of newspapers containing the offer of reward. At last got off home with Etty & Rose. A boy cut up wood today. I have been righting up fences but could do little today. Wednesday Jany 5th 1870 I staid at home straightening up fence, repairing gates &e until about 4 p.m. then went down to my office and carried old volume 2 of Murray's Encyclopedia of Geography to be rebound. Not long after as I was starting home, Mr. Parker met me and asked me to go to the infirmary to write the last will and testament of young Neal who was shot a few days ago. While waiting for him to get ready to dictate the will I got in a hack & rode out home to let my wife know the cause of my detention. Then returned again - caught glimpses of the beer saloon & its amusements in passing. About midnight the will was completed and witnessed. I lay down but could sleep none till nearly day. Got the baby's photographs (& mine). Thursday January 6th 1870 (Raining) I rose about six got meal at the market & walked home. Lay down & slept a little before breakfast. Worked at cattle stalls most of the morning. Helped Eugenia to lay down her carpet, Rode down town about 5-1/2 called at the Infirmary & got my overcoat. Sat, in my office with Nutt awhile & then went to White & Co's to buy this book &c - met Mat Moore & Sampson - rode home. Storm party at Judge Hicks' tonight. Molly attends. Friday January 7th 1870 This is my birthday & I was 37 years old before day this morning. It is a damp cold cloudy day. I staid at home attending to repairs &c. Took Neal & some tools to the smithshop to grind. Had a brace fixed and repaired the table well. Fixed a transom light over the door. Mat Moore & Mr. Cooke came up - I rode down with Mat & in a few minutes returned & went to show him the Alley-Spear land beyond Barret's. Molly went home with Mrs. Wright & did not get back tonight. Saturday Jany 8th 1870 I drove down with Mr. Cooke in Mat's buggy. Sat in my office & answered a great many letters; then walked around with Mr. Cooke, made several purchases, & looked for a wagon to bring us & our parcels home. I left some at Cooke the tinners. Bro's. Alexander & McKee came about sunset & after supper I walked down with them to attend quarterly conference. I felt some febrile symptoms. Got home about midnight. Bro. Alexr. staid with Bro. Trippett. Cold. Rose left but without professing to leave for final. I did not sleep enough. Monday Jany 10 1870 I walked down after breakfast, & Mr. Cooke came afterwards. I got some letters, went about the streets a while & then returned home. Worked about the cistern &c a good deal. Mr. Cooke came later. We dined with Molly. Miss Kate Wright is visiting with us yet. Other young folks came in the evening. I came by Ward's saw John Bradley - ground drawing-knife, & carried tools home. Got a load of wood & had it cut up & thrown over. Warmer & cloudy. Took quinine & missed chill. Tuesday Jany 11 1870 I walked down the road carrying Mr. Cooke's coat & satchel which I placed on a wagon - called at the shop to hire a boy - called at the infirmary & learned that Mr. Neal was dead. The wagon got out of my sight and I hired a horse to hunt for it - looked all over the town - failed - met Rose who told me the wagon had carried it back. Sprinkling rain - I withdrew offer of compromise from Rose - negotiated debt with M. Levy for $33.35. Got 18.18 cash the rest in groceries past & present. Got a hack for Mr. Cooke and me. I tore up the big old gate at dusk. Bro. Parish came for lodging during conference. John Nix called. Miss Emma Conway came home with the girls. Eugenia has yellow jaundice broken out on her plainly. I play with Miss Kate on the violin. I met and conferred with Vic I. Moore today. Wednesday Jan 12th 1870 I had little time to work at the gate this morning. Walked down with Bros. Parish & Adair - attended the first meeting of the Annual Conference - Settled with Waskom & remitted to Webster (D) N,O. Advised with Mrs. Lister. Afternoon session of Conference. Home too late to work. Bro. Parish, Jennie, Molly & I went down to attend June Jones wedding & preaching. Fuller went after Miss Betty Eubank & they attended the Methodist church. Thursday Jany 13 1870 I rose pretty early & worked at the gate till I got it nearly done. It had been cold, warm a day or two, but is cold again. I rode down on horseback, a little too late for the opening of Conference; I sat and listened to the proceedings with much interest till Fuller called in to get me to go & attend to business for Pete Rohnes who has been robbed by the box-opening thieves. I prepared an affidavit for him. I returned to conference & staid till it adjourned then rode out home, carrying Mr. Cookes coat & satchel - ate a snack & returned to town. Two of the robbers had been arrested & put in jail. I attended the committee of the whole on domestic missions till near night. Drove out in a buggy with Pro. Parish. On my way out before I tried to hire several women to cook or wash. We did not go down at night. The Bishop had arrived & presided today. Friday Jan 14th, 1870 As I reached town pretty early, got a letter Judge Walker enclosing a 36$ dft, which was by Emery Clapp cashed. I sat in the conference after writing letters awhile. Looked after business matters on the street awhile - got in committee of the whole just before it rose. Bro. Parish came late. Wet & Muddy. Saturday Jany 15th 1890 I went to the Court House to see about examination - none - but Jim Everett was released on "alibi". Mrs. Miller sold 2 lots 6 & 5 for 2275 & 2225$. That occupied me awhile. In conference I profferred to aid Bro. Ivey in his trial & had a long consultation with him & then went into trial in committee at 3 p.m. This detained me till dark. I had rode down with Bro. Parish & we hitched in a stable. Rode out at dark & my horse fell with me & on my leg & lay on it awhile. Jennie is sicker with jaundice. I took Molly to church with me in a buggy & we heard reports on missions, addresses by Bishop McTeyre & Dr. McFerrin. then home. Sunday Jany 16th, 1870 I feel a little sore from my fall last night, so I do not go to church at 11 - at 3 I did go with Molly & heard Dr. Keener preach. Returned home & staid the rest of the day & evening. Monday Jany. 17th 1870 I went down & attended conference some time - attended a little to outside business. Cold. At 3 o'clock we resumed the trial of Bro. Ivey & continued till supper. We resumed it after supper & continued on in the Baptist Church till preaching was over in the Methodist church. We then adjourned to the latter again. We got through the evidence & I spoke from 1:5 till 2:10 in the morning. Bro. Brigham closed at 3:10 & soon after I walked home & lay down & soon heard the clock strike 4. Tuesday Jany. 18th I rose nearly as usual went down soon - in conference - wrote in office - then lay down to sleep. A young lawyer came in & I went at 4 to conference & staid till the final adjournment & walked home soon after. Percy has returned. I rode out half the way. Mat's folks are here. camping. Wednesday Jany. 19, 1870 Bro. Parish left today & Bro. Randle took his horse & buggy away. Sampson camped here & I talked with him about the Fumbro debt. The plasterer worked on the cistern yesterday & today. I went down early - got a large mail - But Cousin Jo Dial came to see us after breakfast & walked down with me. I looked after Mr. Cooke's arrangements - read my letters, wrote a little - had my hair trimmed - Called on Mrs. Ford & collected $43.50 from her. Called on Mr. Wheaton for her. Remitted to Browning. Canvassed the barber for Uncle Sam's paper. Saw Bro. Harp at Bro. Trippett's office. Bought chickens from Moses F. Roberts, lemons from Leman & came home in a hack. White has a calf - brought up. Alonso comes at night. Received a handkerchief by mail a present from Miss Jane R. Torrey of New York whom I saw for the last time January 18, 1855 -15 years ago today. Several papers by mail. Thursday Jany. 20, 1870 I waited at home with Mr. Cooke till a hack came for us. I assisted him in getting his medicines, wine & in having his clothes cut. Went to the Court House - on the way stopped at Mrs. Mader's and talked. Returned with Chapman, gave him the papers relating to Rose's debt to Webb &c. Went with Mr. Cooke to the railroad depot, talked there with Capt. Barry awhile. Returned & wrote in my office a long time - settled with Dr. Lacy - (gave him and received the papers after). Bought gin and snakeroot for Ginny's jaundice - homeward met Mrs. Austin - Ivey - I did go to see Wheaten today - had interview with Elias Lewis - Met Wm James McLemore & Moses F. Roberts who came to stay with us at night. I suffer a little soreness in the lungs from speaking & exposure &c. I rode home part way on a wagon of a negro who had lost a mule by the fraud of one Davenport in Shelby County Texas. Warmer weather. Friday Jany. 21, 1870 I felt so ill that I lay at home all day till about 4 p.m. - then rode down - called to tell Mrs. Ivey why I did not come today at 10 - went to see Wheaton who promises to pay tomorrow. Returned home - saw Bolling Hooper & Jim Graham in town. Works of repair progress well. Saturday Jany. 22, 1870 I am still not well, but after breakfast I went down to my office - overtook Judge Levisee - called on Wheaton & collected 24$ for Mrs. Ford - went. & paid her $21.60. Then called on Mrs. Ivey and received her instructions about business for her - went to the Court House & examined the records - Court has adjourned. Dr. Neal called & paid my fee 50$ & I began preparing the affidavits to send with the will to Kentucky. Mr. Inglis came in & employed me to prosecute his claim vs. Geo. Williamson & paid me 10$ in advance of the 20 per cent I am to get on amount to be collected. Saw afterwards his friend & mine Churchill. Prepared for attchmnt vs Charley Downs for Inglis. Deposited 60$ in bank of Pike, got bread & came home. Bro. Trippett was in awhile at dusk. Much improvment has been made in the house this week. All looks better & feels better. I suffer with fever in my head, & Jenny is tired but we have much cause to rejoice. I wrote papers for attachment suit vs. G. S. Downs, but went to bed sick with fever headache & throat all night. Sunday Jany 23rd, 1870 I slept but little last night & was still so sick with fever that I did not get up this morning. Lay sick all day with little exception. Peter Rohns came & talked with me awhile. Molly & Fuller walked down to church. I began to feel better in the evening - had slept a long time. It is so warm that we want but little fire. Fuller was down afternoon helping Peet Rohns - & went again about 7-1/2 at night. Monday Jany 24, 1870 Tho I was sick yesterday & sleepless last night I went down for important business. Mr. Dyron called for me while at breakfast. I went with him & consulted with Mrs. Renfro & settled a little claim. Went to my office & the Court House - had much to do on office but must first buy & procure a little table from Mrs. Ford to write before the fire. Wrote several letters - sent petition to Judge Creswell now returned. Peet Rohns came on & I fixed his papers again. J. W. Smith called & directed me to sue in Bossier. I settled with Rose 369$ for Webb. Learned by Percy that Jennie had a chill & I could write no more. Took soup at Francis'. Bought meal, candles, fruits, and came home, Percy behind me on the mare. Hired Sarah again on the way. Peet got his men all assisted this evening. Oscar is being weaned. I bought vood. Wrote a petition & letters to the Clerk of Bossier. After supper I went over to confer with J. W. Smith. Not sick but weary. Business brisk. Deposit 365$ in Pike's bank. Jennie is better after getting the fruits &c. Hally has been sick last night & today. Tuesday Jany. 25th 1870 I rested well & rose to kindle a fire about 4 or 5 a.m. but lay down & rested more. Peet came before breakfast & we walked part of the way down together. I went to the Recorder's Court & saw the trial of Peet's robbers tried for offence against City ordinance - adjourned till tomorrow. Remitted $350.10 to A. L. Cook N.O. to remit to Leitch & Cole, Rockingham, N.C. Sat writing most of the day remaining, but was in the Court House a little time. Took dinner at Francis' and met Capt. Kerrin there as yesterday. Started home at night. Employed Mr. Howell to write a petition. George Biggar came out to stay with us. The workman Whitaker ended his job at our house & left today. Molly went over to stay with a sick child at John Bradley's at night. I tried to play a little. George played. Jennie read to me. Wednesday Jany. 26th 1870 I walked down alone; went to the Court House but the trial of the tobacco-box men had been tried and fined $100 each & 20 days imprisonment. I returned to the office & wrote. Elias Lewis & Alonso Cooke came in & Lewis paid me 30$ gold for Nelson and Amanda. I wrote only one letter, not copied. Percy came, & Pep came out with me. Mrs. Ivey sent for money again. Accounts hard to balance but all right at last. Thursday Jan, 27th, 1870 I walked down soon after breakfast - cold - staid in the Court House some time - went to my office & wrote but seemed to effect little. Went out awhile for Dr. Moore to operate - continued till dusk. Saw Minter about old claims. Got letters at dark, carried home paper & pens - wrote Pete Rohn's petition at night. Pep still with us. Friday Jany. 28th 1870 Still cool. I have not got ready to start to Many yet. I went down about 9, was in the Court House awhile - then in my office most of the day, but seemed to accomplish little. Filed some suits. Mr. Ware came & talked with me awhile. I got some fruits for Jennie. Fuller brought a young Carolinian home with him at night. Hallie & Jennie are both unwell yet but may be better. Got the Little Watch of Y. Shidet's this evening. Saturday Jany. 29th, 1870 I went to my office in the morning, thence to the Court House where I had some exceptions disposed of & tried the case of Dickinson vs. Enders & got a judgment. Wrote a letter of councel to N. Ware & advice to N. S. Dickinson, Cincinnati, Ohio. Got affidavits prepared to send with Neal's will to Ky. Concluded on advising to go to Many via Grand Ecore & to take Eugenia & the children along for excursion & Amanda Robinson along as nurse. Secured passage on the Silver Bow 15$. Talked with Capt. Kemin and he paid my fee $20. Went out home in a hack after the rest - was detained by a train of cars stopped at the crossing. The boat was gone to the stock landing when we reached the levee but we drove there & got on in time. Jennie, Hallie, Oscar and all seem pleased with the excursion. I left Jas. D. Neal's will with Capt. Dyer to be copied before sending to Ky. Slept little at night - much detained by repairs on account of levees &c. Sunday Jany. 30, 1870 We feel dull, but rest & sleep it off. More detention for repairs. Weather becomes warmer. Monday, Jany. 31st 1870 We landed at Grand Ecore soon after early breakfast - Wnet to Mr. Blackstone's a little - saw Mr. Russell & Angus Alexander - hired horses - carried my family up to Mrs. De Russy's & I started with Amanda to Manny about 9-15/60 a.m. Rested a little abour 3 p.m. & reached Manny about 5-1/2 - it was 5-3/4 when I sat down by Mr. Small's fire. I first saw District Clerk McNeely - supper - retired early after talking with Small & getting some items about the business in hand. The Parish Judge & the sheriff are gone to New Orleans - the habeas corpus writ arrived today not long before me! Pleasant weather to ride. Tuesday Feby 1st 1870 Rose early - white frost. Breakfast - went to clerk's office - saw Gibbs attorney Fisher Smith - saw the act of apprenticeship binding Bob & Fanny to Gibbs !! Filed and copied petition against him for damages - had the act of apprenticeship copied - learned that there would be a contest - arranged for a deputy clerk to go & serve the writ tomorrow. Got ready, dined & started back at 12-1/2 by our watch - & reached Grand Ecore about 9 p.m. Hally has been sick. Wednesday Feby 2nd We conclude to remain here no longer but to go to Natchitoches, especially after learning how heavy the charges are. I prepared a new petition to habeas corpus & a letter to Judge Osborn - found the fare on the packet too heavy to send Amanda to Alexandria. Engaged a hack of Blackstone, at last started walking to meet the hack. It delayed & at last a buggy came for us & we dragged our way down. Sent Mandy back to bring baggage which she did. I intercepted her & took her affidavit - home with fruits - out, and luckily found transportation for my letter to Alexander by kindness of Mrs. Bernstein kinswoman of our Bernstein. Walked back with Mrs. Philips & Mrs. Bernstein. Mild weather today & Jennie is pleased with Natchitoches. Thursday Feby 3 1870 It rained long & hard during the night & continued dame & cloudy great part of the day. I staid in our room all forenoon figuring at hexagonal plans for houses: then went to Chaplin's office & searched for law long time till he came in & then talked with him of the case. Went back, missed my dinner, ate a sanck in our roots; walked out with Jennie & Hally - to the postoffice - got no letter - up to Col. Burk's store & saw Jonny Alexander - little purchases made on our way - Jinny waited at Blanchard's - we returned - supper - figured at hexagons & I read the Constitution & found the law I want. Read Syllabus till 11 oclk & lay down. Friday Feby 4th 1870 (Written on board B. L. Hodge) After remaining in our room till late in the morning we all went out for a walk over the town - up the main street to the upper end, then out to the hills - down that way - looking at curious & old houses, shrubbery &c. Got acorns or live oak, evergreen cherry & kept in a box - Met an old gentleman - rested - called in the recorder's office & saw records of Court of June 1806. Returned home by the Main st. again - Dinner - We are to go to Grand Ecore tomorrow to take boat - Remained indoors most of the evening - I met Mrs. Blackstone on our walk & settled. I was in Chaplin's office, returned his book & had Gibbs pointed out & saw him a time or 2 again on the streets. I inquired of Jonny Alexander for a letter but got none - I have learned that Judges Osborn & Edmundston are both absent - Borrowed paper of the Times office & read at night. Saturday, Feby 5, 1870 Before breakfast I walked up town to return papers - got no letters - engaged a wagon on my return - took breakfast, loaded up & started to Grand Ecore - walked part of the way - Arrived & looked for a boat - Era 10 passed & we did not embark. Called at Hill's & talked with the elder Hill, now a dealer in land. Staid at Blackstone's. No other boat during the day - Cold & cloudy - We retired to wait nearly all night for B. L. Hodge No. 2 on which we happily embarked at daylight - No news from Alexander. Sunday Feby 6th 1870 We moved all day up the river without incident. Monday Feby 7th 1870 We still have not reached Shreveport. We see people & make acquaintances as usual on board. I felt sick at dinner & supper but played on the fiddle with Jenny on the piano. Tuesday Feby 8th 1870 We had landed about midnight & so awoke in port. I feel still a little ill - carried Jennie & c. to Mrs. Flemings & went to business - Court House - office - write letters &c. Got baggage carried out & came out about 4-1/2 p.m. Feel better. Papers to read &c. Wednesday Feby 9th, 1870 I walked down after breakfast, soon after went to the Court house, staid awhile - then in my office most of the day. Saw Mr. B. of Schieffeln & Co. of N.Y. - uncle Jacky Rudd - Tally & Judge Creswell about taking testimony in a case vs. U.S. Dr. Moore drove me out to the one mile house. I did not feel able to do any writing at night so figured only with hexagon plans. Thursday Feby 10th I was in the Court House but little - recuse - cases only tried the Judge being sick. Saw Mr. Oswald from Cousin Sam. Earlier received 200$ from Gill & remitted Sam Andy Pickens - Mrs. Ivey & the records & made arrangements for the sale of mortgaged property. Wrote some letters. Saw Mat & gave him letters to read. Ordered one dinner for Judge Hicks & me. Carried out bread & butter & a toy balloon. Able to write at night. Friday Feby 11th 1870 I sent Mandy up to Judge Levisee's in the morning, but she did not see him. I was in the Court House awhile - then in my office - on the street a good deal. Settled with Enders & remitted to Dickinson. Saw Mat again & talked with him. Judge Levisee in the evening declined to act in the case of Amandy because Judge 0. has already acted. Saturday Feby 12th 1870 I went to the Court House & had a judgment rendered in my absnece against me set aside & a new trial. Then wrote in the office. On my way to the office in the morning I was called in to Cumming Morrison & Co. to read their letter to all their creditors proposing an assignment. I telegraph & write to parties concerned. Took soup as yesterday in the restaurant of Broks. Prepared petition for seisure & sale A. J. Pickens vs. Emma Ivey, conferred with Rosson. Received a note from her which I was answering when Mrs. Cattlett came in at dusk to get attachemnt sued out. I was occupied till on hour in the night getting papers issued & served: left them in the high Sheriff's hands with Cattlett to point out cotton to be seized. Amon English came in my office a little while today. Sunday Feby 13th 1870 I felt not very well & did not go to church. Fuller & the rest went. Jennie & I made hexagon-card houses p.m. Monday Feby 14th 1870 I got down a little earlier, but did not get to the Court House till after the roll call. For Catlett called on me to go down & see Gregg & Martin about his claim. Saw Koger again. I was not in the C.H. long. Got a copy of act for Pickens vs. Ivey seisure & sale. Conferred with Pickens. Collected 20.55 of A. L. Hay & remitted. Collected 300$ gold of Preply through W & E & paid 270$ to Robands. Bought Groceries &e & had them drayed out. Amon came with me, a little sick. Dr. Moore is about to go to New Orlenas. Bought a box of candles of M. Levy, full wt. @ 28c per pound. Tuesday Feby 15th 1870 Amanda & Nelson left today. I was at the Court room some time before court. Got an order for seisure & sale for Pickens vs. Emma Ivey. Attended Parish Court awhile. Settlement nearly completed with Catlett &c today - called on my way down to see Dr. E. B. Scott whose note Dr. Koger holds. I disposed of a large amount of my correspondence today - failed to finish the testimony for U.S. again today. Saw Hope and Tally. Got some beef at the market & bread. Amon brought the mare & I rode home. I hired a boy & mule to plow as I went down this morning. Hurried off without reading my bible lesson. Wednesday Feby 16th 1870 I went down early enough; was in Court some time. Rewrote a brief in Tunney vs. Beckman. Wrote a number of letters. Tried to get the witnesses together to cross-examine for the United States; failed after much walking. Saw Martin - settled with Catlett. Failed to get a plow mule today. Took soup for lunch. Met Miss Kate Bell, Lochy Foster, Pep & Mrs. Fleming, Jr. Talked a little with Nic Moore about Sinclair & wrote. Saw Hughes of Shelby, & sent word to Bussey about land in Shelby. Miss Kate Wright & Emma Conway are with Molly & I try to play some. Pretty tired. A good deal of business dispatched today. Saw Mr. Josiah Cooke & he paid me $6 silver. Thursday Feb. 17th 1870 I rode down passing by Mr. Carlin's to notify him to appear for crop examination. I learned that he was working up near Bylands. I found him there. Was in both courts a little. Judge Levisee not on the bench at all. Made a new list of my cases; Had great trouble to get the parties ready to take the testimony. It turned very cold after a little rain. Finished my abstract of testimony & my letter to the Secretary of the Treasury of the U. S. & sent it off - several other letters. Took soup. Conferred with Catlett on other matters. Called at Martin & Fords. Bought home several things. Talked with Holland Anderson about the testimony. I forgot to call for the young ladies, Kate Bell & Lodie - some disappointment. John Hicks & others came at night. Friday Feby. 18th, 1870 Cold & clear. I walked down about nine - to the Court House awhile - then to Mrs. Ivey's & got papers - She seemed well - Lee Gooch was on the steps drunk - Returned to office & wrote petition for a sale of the undivided half of realty belonging to Hodge - some letters. Telegraphed to Senator Kelso or Forte to advise me of the return of absent Judges Osborn & Edmundstone - Saw Marion Twist at restaurant. Called on Pep - Had a hack engaged but waited on the street for it an hour and went home & met it near Heffner's - at sunset & after - Examined for the angles of the rhomnoid that forms one of the 3 faces of the flattened pyramid that forms the bottom or cover of a bee's cell in Encyclopedia - 70 & 110. Saturday, Feby. 19th, 1870 Mr. Carlin came to plow before I left home & he planted the potatoes and broke up some ground. I went to the Court House, but feeling those chilly symptoms I went to my office leaving Judge Egan to set my cases. Wrote some there. Saw Jim Ballard. Met Mr. Bill Heffner at table. Kennedy yesterday, Took early start, for a hack & took Pep home with me. Sunday, Feby. 20th, 1870 Extremely cold but clear. Eugenia, Pep & Hally went to church with me in the hack - Heard Molly & Mr. Carter walked. Heard Mr. Wilkinson for the first time, his first sermon. Felt chilly symptoms, nearly sick the rest of the day & lay before the fire. Frank was sent home this morning, but came back in the evening. Monday, Feby. 21st, 1870 (written 22nd night) I went to the C.H. feeling badly - cold - left the C.H. pretty soom. Sat by the fire in my office. Called once on the levee to see Gill - gone. Resolved to leave early, but got off about 5. A young drunk man from Washington, Ark. rode out in the hack with me. I lay down most of the time till bed time feeling feverish or rather chilly. Rested well and got better in the night. Tuesday, Feby 22nd, 1870 Washington's birthday. No Court today. I stay at home to get well, and feel well all day. Made a sweep for Oscar to walk in. Went down town about 4 to 5. Got pretty tired. Brought back several things. Alonso came up. Christian plants some peach trees before breakfast this morning. Wednesday Feby 23rd, 1870 I walked down - went to the Court House, staid awhile. Then to my office - Col. Hardie came & had a long talk, of interest to me professionally. My feet grew cold and my head ached - I made a fire. Dr. Neal came in & Mr. Catlett - the latter left to let Dr. Neal talk. Directory man came in. Wrote some letters for mail & for drop. Went & got some soup & coffee - My headache got well & I walked home. Mandy is returned. Thursday Feby 24th 1870 I was in the Court House awhile today - took judgment by default vs Chamberlain. Received back petition from Judge Creswell with a suggestion for a new one which I made and got the proper orders. Prepared papers for a consent judgment vs. R.J.L. Wrote deeds for T. B. Jones to sign to A. B. James (640), to M. J. Hall (80) & to me (80). I got them all signed & witnessed by Shelby people & left them with Julium Garrett to take to Center for record. Saw Gill a little. Newt Walker. Read, bought domestic - went with Cattlett- in my office at dusk. James Truitt, Sr. in town. Soup at Brock's. Waitsd to attend prayer meeting - walked home about 9 at night. Wrote some letters. Friday Feby 25th I remained in Court awhile - made an abstract of an opinion for Battle - filed a petition "tutorship of Hodge Austin". Sat in my office doing little, felt not well. Interview with some young men who want to buy up the mortgage of Warner to Tandy & Morton in Bright Star. Wrote & read a little. Billy Mackles is in a stew because Judge Levisee demands his fee & I had to take 2 glasses of beer & a lunch with him to appease him and my appetite. Felt rather tired on arriving at home. No fire needed. Windy. Christian plants more fruit trees &c this morning, Lay & read at night. Saturday Feby 26th. 1870 I called at the Court House on my way - & then went to my office & returned - staid awhile - Dr. Moore is returned. A gentlemen referred a question of sales on cotton receipts to me, which occupies my time. Soup at Brook's House. Home late. Mildly cool weather. Up till near 12 oclk. Sunday Feby 27th 1870 I went to church on foot alone: attended church meeting - dined with Sister Hackett. Went to Mr, Walter's to the funeral of their little son. Walked home. Bright mild weather. Monday Feby 28th 1870 I was in the Court House some time, then in my office doing little but examine the cotton receipt question. Lunch as usual. Home late. Spoke to Judge Levisee about his fee today. Too tired to read at night. Tuesday March 1st 1870 March comes in like a lamb. I walked down - was in the Court House a little - the rest of the day in my office, writing & collecting authorities. Wrote a letter or 2. Got papers. Wednesday March 2nd 1870 I did not go to the Court House today but prepared a brief on a submitted case. Mr. Oswald came in out office drunk & staid till after I left. I rode out with Parker. Fullers folks all want to theater at night. Oscar played the fiddle. I escorted Sally home after supper. Thursday March 3, 1870 I was in my office most of the day - made some effort to have a family meeting for Hodge tomorrow. Was engaged re-writing my brief on the cotton receipt case. Carried home my letter book to repair & worked on it at night. Friday Mar 4, 1870 Bright & warm - I walked via the hollow - wrote awhile - family meeting failed - Met Agurs & took a defense of a case for him. Saw him in the car. Walked out afternoon - talked with gentlemen on the warehouse receipt question. Work at my letter at night. Saturday March 5th 1870 (written 6th night) I went to see Dr. Turner if he would be tutor for Hodge. Spoke to Hope on the subject. Suggested the matter to Young Lecky. Afternoon I called in at Duncan's office & called attention to my brief in the cotton case. Lunch at Brook's Restaurant. Investigated some. Left town rather late. On my way down I walked with pere Bissy, having ridden in Jack's cart with him to Dr. Lawrence's. Met Bolling Hopper & Tac. Booth going out. Sunday March 6th. 1870 I did not leave home till dusk when I went over & sat awhile with Capt. Dashiell. Some rain & cooler. Mandy aimed to get off but failed today. Jennie read to me from Longfellow today & yesterday. Monday Mar 7th 1870 I renewed efforts to get a family meeting. Wrote letters & several petitions. Chat with Chapman at dusk. Mandy left on the cars. I sent a new application for habeas corpus to Judge Levisee at Mansfield. Met Bob Parker & John Runnels. Walked with Jones & rode the rest of the way on sacks of bonedust. Brought plates for Eugenia to inspect. Sawed wood. Tuesday Mar 8th 1870 I remained at home some time to make a gate. After going down I got a family meeting to act. Passed some time in my office writing. Cold but not enough to kill fruit. I lunched with Fuller yesterday & today. Saw Lem from Shelby & sent word to Tab. Called at Heffner & Grubbles & on the levee. Walked with Mrs. S. M. Nutt & carried parcels for her to her house. Worked at the gate at night a little. Eugenia read Hiawatha. Some workman came to repair for Fuller today. Met Elias Lewis in my office this morning. Wednesday March 9th 1870 I rose early and made fires. Remained at home working at the gate. Took a lunch & went down town leavi.ng Mr. Barrett, Miss Betty Eubank & Sally Jernigan at our house. I than went to the Court House, filed some papers & went to see Mrs. Eliza Gibson who had left a message for me with Dr. Moore. She had an interesting case for me. Her husband will convey to her the "lots" on one of which the dwelling stands. Attended to some other matters, bought corn, bacon, bran & syrup. Saw Mat, Tom Grogard & George Roberts with whom I rode out. Very tired. Cold at about 106 & 108. Very tired & but well. Eugenia is in good health & the signs are favorable. Thursday March 10 1870 I felt a little badly in the morning, but went down town - got worse in the evening & was quite sick - I walked part of the way, became faint - got on a water cart - walked to the top of the hill, got a little brandy & got on Mr. Fuller's wagon & rode home. Vomited on the way; After I got home, threw up bile - got well during the night. Mrs. Gibson came to see me this morning. I examined the succession records for her during the day. Also got date for settlement with Gill, but he wanted the notes. Received some letters & photographs of John Torrez, L.L.D. Wrote some. Placed papers with Judge Creswell to order homologation of family meeting &c. Before I left I had figs boxed up for John T. McLemore & carried 60$ to Fuller for him. Carried fresh papers home at night. Friday March 11th 1870 (written 12th night). I rode, down today and had the mares shod. It rained a while. I got Gill notes & settled with him. Remitted to Memeritt & Debrell. Examined records for Mrs. Gibson & reported to her. Lunch. Pressley came in. Had a brant for supper. Weary. Retired early. Saturday March 12th I fixed some cow troughs before I went down. Rained in the night. Cool strong wind. Prepared for settlement with Pressley. Went by the Court House to get cost bill. Conferred with him, White & Robards about old aceounts. Prepared memorandum for Chapman to attend to my case vs. Barlow. Paid many bills today. Took draft from Pressley in settlement. Lunch. Hally came in from the Matinee & stayed till I left for home. Went to the levee - Baker's - homeward. Hally rode in a little cart. Dolly left today. Duck for supper. Sunday March 13th. 18'70 I rode to church on the gray mare. The children preceded me afoot. Hally rode with me part of the way coming back - then with Mrs. Barrett in a carriage. Monday March 14th, 1870 I repaired the stable wall until after nine & then walked down with Molly. I fixed up my papers to go to Shelby tomorrow. Attended Court a little. Went to see Mrs. Austin Ivey to tell her about the progress of business. King Williams had been in & told me of the location of my land certificate in Harrison County. He returned to Marshall and carried 2 from me in a letter to A, S. Field. Conferred with Maj. Robards about his share of the Bowie certificates. Rode home on Percy's saddle. I showed Phil Rosson a decision in point today. Tired at night. Wrote a few letters copied them & some I wrote. Saturday night in my new copying letter book. Tuesday March 15th 1870 Freezing cold! clear, bright & windy. I abandon the idea of going to Shelby today. Rode down town but did little. A woman mulatto patient of Dr. Moore's staid in a long time waiting for him and talking to me. Dr. Moore is angry because McWilliams & Chapman won't settle. I wrote a little. Lunched and saw J. W. Pope. Got gloves and a bridle rein. Home early. Mr. Russell with us at night. Still cold. New tenants in. Wednesday March 16th 1870 Still cold. I sit the morning in the office doing little, feeling not well. On the street - with Heffner. Walked down with Russell, whom I met again at the lunch. Rode home early in a Wagon of Jones'. A little warmer at evening. Thursday March 17 (written 25th night) I went down in the morning - met Mr. Jones & collected 150$ from him for H. Ware - also 50$ for Fidler - deposited in bank 160 - 20 - home for lunch - started for Shelby about 12. Fell in company with Willie Hall who lives 17 miles out. I lounged at Cherry's & passed the time agreeably. In Kechi next morning I met the Nacogdoches mail rider. Stopped at Nic Moore's. Rested a little at Brooklyn. On to Center where I arrived at night. Court & progress - Byrd on trial for murder of Vochenier. I stopped at Fawcett Smith's & soon spoke to him about business in hand. Heard part of Bagley's speech. Retired. Friday March 18, 1870 I saw many old acquaintances & attended to numerous business matters. The trial lasted all day & the jury were discharged late at night without finding a verdict. I got a promise from Fawcett to settle at 1/3 & expenses. It was dreary about the town at night, no light, no fire. A little cool. I slept badly last night with Martin Casey & tonight we put the bed on the level floor & did better. I was up writing till late. Sunday, March 20th, 1870 I exchanged receipts &c with Fancett & left late in the morning for Shelbyville accompanied by Ramey for a quarter of a mile. A young man overtook me and was company to Shelbyville. Old scenes, roads, views & objects seen today for the first time since the war. Called at Dr. Ragland's a little - met Dr. Lister with several gentlemen in town - went with Dr. Lister home to dinner - came back to Dr. Rather's and inquired for transportation for mother & Eva & baggage. Rode out to mother's in the evening. Found all well. She will probably go with me. Monday, March 21st, 1870 I went by George McWilliams to Miss Arennisia's - saw B. B. Lee & family who are going soon to California. I saw 2 deer about 300 yards from mother's door this morning as I started. Went to Shelbyville a new way across Beechum Creek. Arrived and made arrangements for mother & Eva to go in a hack with Mrs. Smith, wife of the proprietor of the Crescent City Circus. I staid all night with Cousin Will Crawford who is securing new goods & a piano. I sent word to mother's that I would not be home tonight. Tuesday March 22nd 1870 I went by George Mac's, to see about getting conveyance to the place of meeting the hack. Got Lee's buggy & George's horse. Then home. Went driving with Price - visited old scenes in the woods. No game. Returned after asking full circuit. Saw Mhoon _ George there. Took a little still hunt at duck. Wednesday March 23rd 1870 We met Lee at the old Cravans Plant about 6-1/2 & arrived at the junction of the Logansport road 2 hours before the hack with Mrs. Smith overtook Uncle George & Frank. Called at Golden's where Weiss Art waylaid me. At Flat Fork had much trouble & delay by the overflow of wide deep water. Too much to describe. Other obstacles, crossed the river (risen 11 ft. since the 18th), reached White's & got lodging by hard pleading. Tired & ill from wet muddy feet. Thursday March 24th 1870 We got off in good time - stopped to feed at the Fullilove place 2 hours - reached home at dark. Eva rode on my horse & let me rest in the hack a good deal. Mrs. Wood is at our house. All well, It rained a little at dusk & thru the night. Some fever in my head. Bathed. Friday March 25th 1870 I staid at home nearly all day on account of my bad health & the wet weather. Went down late and brought out several purchased articles. Wrote up my journal. Saturday March 26th I remained at home till late arranging some home affairs. Then walked down. Changed shoes for Mother and Eva. Wrote several letters: my feet got cold & I made fire. Remittance brought 50$ gold for Davis Taylor & 135$ for H. Ware. Mr. Wilkinson called in the evening & Mrs. Gibson. Mrs. Moore is to leave for St. Louis. Called for Judge Creswell but he was asleep. Got beef & bread - put my bundles on a wagon & had to ride back to Chris' on Savage's mule for them. Agurs called a little while on business. Sunday March 27th 1870 Eva and Molly went with me to church today. I remained for church meeting. Monday March 28th 1870 I rose expecting to go to Carthage with Mr. Heffner. His mule is missing - I failed to borrow Anderson's mare - went to see Pyron & he is willing that I should not go; so I am glad to remain. I attended to business in the office till about 4 p.m. & went home. Bro. Wilkenson called to see us. After prayers I went with him to Capt. Dashiell's to introduce him. Tuesday March 29th It has turned quite cold again. I went down late. Mrs. Wright and Miss Kate visited us. I wrote letters to England today - little else. Returned early & measured the line of our land for division with the assistance of Capt. Dashiell. Cold. Bought lard & brought home also load of wood. Got order from Judge Creswell. Wednesday March 30th 1870 Still cold. I went down late. Wrote some letters & pleadings for Agurs. Wrote to Allens. Made up my income account - about $1400 for 1869. Amon was out to see Mother & Eva today. I was at the Court House on business. Came late, rode wagon. Got a little wood for the office. Ate no lunch & felt pretty well. Thursday March 31st 1870 I walked down by way of the valley. Returned my income. Received notice to get a new office & made some inquiry for one. Feel dull & weak. Amon came in & I talked to him about settling here. I did but little writing except posting books. Returned home by the same route. Not well after supper. Friday April Ist, 1870 I walked down the valley & remained in my office all day nearly to lunch. Wrote letters; had my receipts arranged. Felt a little better than yesterday, but yet not veil. I feel less bouyant and cheerful in spirits than usual. Things are not all going as well with me as I desire. Or so it seems. Saturday April 2nd, 1870 I was at my office writing & investigating as usual. Reviewed my brief & the correspondence in regard to Saltus vs. Nichols. Came home early afternoon. Not quite well yet. Wrote at home till bedtime. Sunday April 3rd, 1870 I felt not very well so lay and rested till time & then went to church. Sermon on the relation of children to the church, very instructive. Rested at home the rest of the day. Eva went down with me, but got sick & came home early alone. Hally went to church with Fuller. Mother has felt ill for 2 or 3 days but is getting better a little. Molly has sickheadache also. Monday April 4th 1870 Court began its session today. I waited in the Court House some time without a court. Began forming Jury at 12 or later. I received a $47.50 fee from the government - paid off some bills, drew some cost drafts & wrote letters. At six p.m. attended a meeting of persons interested to arrange an assignment of Cummings Morrison & Company. I put some sugar & other articles in a sack on a wagon to be left at Fuller's. After the meeting I walked a mile by railroad to Fuller's and found that the sack was not there; went all the way back to Market St.& home again, but heard no more of it. Mandy Moore had come to see us. Our negro lodgers were gone. The cotton bet was decided in my favor. Oscar complained sorely in the night and Jess had some croup. Eva & Fuller I met going to theater on my last walk homeward; talked with Judge Levisee about his disputed fee today. Tuesday April 5th 1870 I did not rise very early, my rest being disturbed during the night. I sat down in my office to write when Mr. Sims called on me to attend to a suit for L. Baer before Justice Wyly. Mr. Agurs also came in to see me on business. Sisters Amanda and Molly came down & I dined with them from the Brooks Restaurant. Got some beef & bread & came home early - repaired the garden gate & did some domestic work. Wednesday April 6th 1870 I had wood to cut & fires to make this morning. Went down feeling badly, but got batter during the day. Was in the Court House a little. Was occupied some time attending to business for Agurs. Purchased groceries for fee from Baer. In the evening saw poor Simon in trouble. Got articles for Mrs. Austin Ivey. Wrote some letters. Agreed to rent an office with Wiley_____ & Sewell agrees to let me make & occupy an office in the big corner house. Sent things out with Capt. Dashiell. April 7th 1870 Thursday Office moved to Market St. No. , today. Soon after I got to town I went to see Maj. Robards & settled with him about the Pressley claim in favor of Smith. Was occupied waiting & moving the things out of my office. Also had an interview with Mr. Sewell & then with a carpenter about building a room on his house. Got moved about 2 oclk. Mader came for a talk today. Molly, Eva & Juliet came down & I attended them awhile. After getting seated in my new office with Wyly J.P. I wrote and mailed some letters. When I came home at night - I brought some butter & other things in a basket - Not long after dusk Ballard Lee & Family & George Mac arrived - Lee & family on their way to California. Some rain at night. Friday April 8th 1870 I was in the Court House but little - most of the time in my new office. Tom Todd called on me to aid him in his claim against T. W. Jones. George Mac & Ballard Lee were in town Or about all day. Sisters Amanda & Eva left on the stage this morning. I mailed several letters. Prepared to have the partition made between Mrs. Austin & her son made early. I got a sack of corn & rode out with Pegues in a wagon - calling at the carriage shop. We got a little wet - he stopped with me awhile. A fine rainbow. Saturday April 9th, 1870 20 years ago today I started for Princeton. Fell in with Looney on the way down. In the Court House rather late. Conferred with Todd more fully. Dyer made partition or appraisement but Austin must come and qualify before partition. Lee E. Carter put me on a track to make the money for Frank & Stratton in Panola. Ballard Lee concludes to stay till a St. Louis Steamer comes. George Mac starts home. I brought home a man to cut wood in the evening. Got a supply of garden seeds today & sent home by Mrs. Fults. Oscar was sick when I got home. I was to attend the Quarterly Conference tonight, but I am scarcely able to walk back & I hate to leave Oscar sick. Sunday April 10th 1870 I went to church down town at 11& out at White's school house at 3 p.m. Walked with Bro. Wilkinson on the way back and talked of the work that had been maid out for me by the quarterly conference last night & by himself. Monday April 11th 1870 I worked at the stable in the morning & reached my office late. Was not in the Court. John Hicks offered to pay me 250$ as my share of the fee in Mrs. Miller's case. I afterward spoke to Chapman to arbitrate it. A pleasant letter of friendship today; J. W. McKnight came in & authorized me to defend his suit & I began to take his testimony, but Maj. Ashton was not ready. My little son was sick with fever all night. I rode up in Parker's hack & stopped a good deal on the way. He wanted to look at Fuller's hogs. I felt so weak & unwell I could do nothing & retired early. Tuesday April 12th 1870 I went down by the valley accompanied by Byron B. Lee, who is still with us with his family waiting for a St. Louis boat to carry him on his way toward the Pacific Railroad for California. I received a letter which I took to the Court House & there answered. In the Parish Court awhile. In my office the rest or the day. Wrote letter till 6. Young Gustine came in & wanted 10$ which I lent him. Walked & rode home. Warm today. Wednesday April 13th 1870 I went to my office as usual - to the Court House awhile. Met Heffner who told me of Savage's case & I afterward saw them at my office & prepared a release bond & a telegram to Green in N. O. Wrote & sent off 9 or 10 letters. Met Mr. Taylor, delegate to Memphis via Galveston from Texas. Took luncheon. Pegues walked out with me. Nanny Heffner is here st night. My business is encouraging. April 14th Thursday I attended the Courts a good deal today. Called on Mrs. Spanier p.m. Wrote in the office some. No events of importance. Fuller came in & talked about the Miller Mecklin fee matter. Read Appleton's at night. Ballard Lee seems a little sick - is. Friday April 15th 1870 It rained so hard all forenoon that I did not go down town till after two oclk & then I found it was Good Friday & no business doing. Turns cold. Saturday April 16th 1870 - Frost I attended in my office and in the Court House but did little business. Looked over files of the N. O. Republic Case & marked some laws for publication in the Southwestern. I bought plank & had them carried out for benches late in the evening. I felt a little chilly & feverish at night. White frost in the morning. Sunday April 17th 1870 I attended preaching in town at 11 & Sunday School at White's School House at 3 p.m. Read a chapter & expounded it to some extent as there was no preacher present. Still cold. Talked with Brother Lee on scientific subjects at night. Judge Creswell showed me a letter today on the subject of finances. Monday April 18th 1870 I carried a basket of books down in the morning. I felt chill symptoms and it was too cool in the shade and I spent a good deal of time on the street. Was in the Court House but little. Criminal docket taken up. Tomorrow meet Judge Ford who gave me his final decision about going to Memphis. Coming out home I rode part of the way with Bro. Wilkinson. I brought home beef, butter, and my suit of Taylor-Made clothes. I rode with my little son on the baker's wagon to Looney's & back. Tuesday April 19 1870 I rose early and made a fire in the stove & was so sick I had to go back to bed & lay there till about the time I usually start to town. I drank a little tea & want. I wrote some letters - made a deed for Fuller and came out early & measured off some land. Was on the street a good deal today. Saw Pat McLaughlin today as well as yesterday. Got a letter from Mr. Cooke. I had a chill & fever this evening. Wednesday April 20th 1870 Tho not well I went to my office and had a lively time. Mrs. Annie Dixon dame in to see me. Mrs. Walters & daughter also before. Mrs. Ivey sent for me & I went up to see her. Ed Austin is in town trying to give bond as tutor. Mrs. Desha is suing in Wylie's Court - I am for him in one case plaintiff & for the defense (Hollands) in the others. Dr. Lister arrives from Galveston & N. O. & stays all night with us. I took medicine at night. Wylie's wife returned today. Mrs. Dashiell is quite sick. I made a deed for Fuller's end of the ground today - the first copy not being used. Wrote & sent several letters. The Shreve arrived during the night. Dr. Neal, Alva Smith &c in town. Thursday April 21, 1870 I am weak from the effects of the cathartic. I walked down & staid about my office in a feeble state all day. A throng in the office. Little done. Kelly told me that Mat Moore was sick & Eva had come home. I rode out - then walked back to meet Eva & Hally. Dr. Lister left - several other Shelby people. Friday April 22, 1870 Byron B. Lee & his wife and Lusacia Sastry went on board the steamer Henry M. Shreve to go to St. Louis & thence to California near San Diego. We went down with them to the boat - shopped a little on the street & dined on board. I did little business. We bade them farewell & Jinnie visited Mrs. George & I attended Mrs. Flaming while I waited for the express wagon, which disappointed us. I was growing sick all the while & at last started to walk out - got another hack. I had severe fever at night, preceded by some chill and accompanied by headache. Saturday April 23, 1870 I am so weak from my sickness last night that I do not go down to my office this morning. I did go down a little in the evening, got the Sunday School books & attended to some other matters & returned. It rained a little on me. Austin & Pep & Nelson all arrived soon after I got back. I was not much sick this evening. Got some word of my missing sack of sugar &c. Sunday April 24th 1870 It rained most of the day so I did not attempt to go to Sunday School - I was not well enough. Monday, April 25th, 1870 I went to my office weak as I was. In the Court House a little - Frank McAlister called on me & paid me to do some business for him - I settled with White & Co. Mader had another talk about family disagreements. I took chill & fever again & it was severe at night. Tuesday April 26th 1870 I was able to go down again today - sat in Court House - Settled with Judge Creswell - Took quinine & missed chill & fever. Austin & Pep came out at night. Wednesday April 27 1870 It rained the morning & I took quinine, Put lock on the safe, reset the lock on the wardrobe, made a lid for the churn - rode down after dinner. Got letters, hunted up L. Dreyfuss & agreed to compromise a debt just received @ 50%. Settled life premium with Brickner, called on Mrs. Spanier, sent up a sack of oats & Amon with it & waited on other matters. At night Fuller & I settled & we are nearly even after he allows me 650$ for difference in lands. Thursday April 28th 1870 (written June 12) I closed the settlement with Dreyfuss & attended to other matters, getting ready to start to Memphis. Went up home for dinner. Hired a baggage wagon & took Mother & Eugenia down with me. Left them finally at Leman's & went aboard the Brodish Johnson. Hally was with us also. The boat started about sunset. Continued on the River Friday 29th & Saturday 30th & arrived in New Orleans Sunday May 1st. The boat landed at the stock-landing below town & I got off there leaving Gov. Runnels, Amon & others on board. I walked to the cars, got wet in a shower, proceeded to Carondelet Street Church. Went with Col. Taylor & lady to a boardinghouse & met there Mrs. Clough, Bungo Davenport &c. Visited Mrs. Rhorer, now Lesky nee Hynson; rain came up & I staid all night with her. Monday 1870 May 2nd Attended to some business - looked for Amon in vain - finally got on the cars at the Jackson R. R. at 5 p.m. Rolled on all night. Tuesday June 3rd 1870 (May 3rd) About 3 p.m. we arrived in Memphis. Brethren has come out some stations to meet us & provide homes for us the delegates, arriving for the General Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. Met Uncle Sam at the Whitmore House & was assigned to Col. Gantt's, corner 3rd & Adams Sts. Attended a reading society at night. May Ith 1'870- Wednesday Conference begins today. The proceedings I need not record. On the 7th (Saturday) I attended the decoration of the graves of the Confederate dead. From this time until the 25th I attended the Conference Sessions & Committees. Thursday May 26th Conference adjourned. The particulars are recorded in letters to Eugenia here inserted until I can transcribe the substance herein. May 27th Allena & I started at 12. 28th we reached New Orleans & proceeded straight to the landing & embarked on Steamer Grand Era. Arrived home Tuesday May 31st. Wednesday June 1st to Saturday June 4th I was at home, passing part of my time in my office. I found Hally & Oscar both very sick, but she began to mend visibly next day. Oscar seemed a little better on Saturday & I drove out home in a buggy for dinner & took Eugenia, Hally & Oscar down to the boat with me. I leave space here for transcribing the particulars of my journal while in Memphis - this & four pages more. Meraphis May 4th 1870 Met in Conference at 9 a.m. Names settled & rolls made out & rules adopted - and committees formed this evening. I spoke barely to Bishop Marvin today. After committee this evening I walked with Allena in the Park on square of _______, a beautiful spot with trees original & transplanted & plenty of squirrels &c. We sat on a bench & I told her the story of my courtship. I supped with them yesterday but since take my meals at home. I never saw pleasanter people than the Gants - undemonstrative and not a particle of style nor a breath of "air". I am right happy with them. I sat & talked & sang with them till nearly 10 when I came up to write home. Tuesday May 10th 1870 I attended Conference from 9 to 1 P.M. & was in a committee from 3 till nearly night. I was at church at night & found Allena there. The session was unusually interesting on account of the reception of Bishop Jones & Dr. Harris of the North who came to make overtures of union. They were received with official & personal courtesy and kindness. Their proposal was referred to a committee of nine who have not reported yet. There will be no union. I did not attend committee because my feet were cold - didn't feel well & wanted to finish some writing. Felt sad and lonely at sunset & walked on the bluff. After supper went for Allena & to church with her. It has been very cool except for a little spell. Thursday 12th May 1870 In conference again & witnessed the leave-taking of Bishop Jones & Dr. Harris. Was introduced to the former & talked a little. Bishop Marvln invites him to dine with him on Saturday. Miss Gordon& Miss _______ from Columbia dined with us. Miss Blanche, our housekeeper gave us ice-cream & strawberries. My feet are cold & I take coffee afterwards. Friday 13th 1870 I was in Conference during the session from 9 to 1. On committee on books & periodicals from 3 & made a speech against attempting the publication of a monthly magazine by the Church. Saturday 14th May 1870 In Conference as usual till 1, then with Bishop Marvin to dine. There was no one else with him. Old Bishop Andrews was in the room part of the time. At his request I read him my poem. Then he took out his address prepared for delivery at Gen. Lee's College so far as finished & read it to me for my hints &c. I left in a high state of mutual exaltation. Uncle Sam brought me letters & dispatches. I went after supper & sat talking with them, a pleasant time. May 15th 1870 Sunday I went to hear Dr. Munsey the wonderful preacher. crowded to overflowing. He preached in the Opera house crowded to overflowing. I stood all the while. It was wonderful! Such keen analogies - gorgeous imagery - such overwhelming grandeur. I will attempt no description. His head is naked - you would suppose his wig was lost. Monday May 16th 1870 I walked to the Post Office before going to Conference. After I went to see Dr. Wasson for Austin & Mr. Joplin for Mr. Wylie. Tuesday May 17th I rose not very late though I slept little in the night. My brain was powerfully disturbed almost to giddiness. I only know that I took a cup of very strong tea. On adjournment I went by invitation to dine with our brother Alexander who happens to call here in passing from Kentucky home. At sunset went down & sat with Uncle Sam's folks at tea and took some myself. Went to church and heard a sermon on error. Wednesday May 18th 1870 My head was troubled in the night & I felt a little giddy on going to conference. After staying an hour or so I went to my room and fairly took my sick spell for the rest of the day. My head ached and my stomach was sick. At night I took blue-mass and rested tolerably well. Thursday May 19th 1870 I feel easier this morning but not well. Went down to get tea, but Dr. Tanner brought me some crab-apple orchard salts to start my blue mass and I waited some time for my tea which I took alone. A little ice and water. Glad that I have a little respite so that I can command my thoughts for meditation and prayer. It has come into my mind that I can, I ought, I must, I will cut loose from the lingering sins that so easily beset me sometimes - soon - even now I will begin. So much better to be rid of everything that obstructs the exercise of faith. Questionable indulgences - habits of thought - inordinate or sinful affections. Let them all go & do better without them. No more letters yet. Soon after 1 Uncle Sam brought me letters of the 14th. One from my wife. Allena & Uncle Ken's wife came to see me. A pleasant interview, weak as I was. So sorry to hear that my little son suffers so much and is so sick. Friday May 20th 1870 Rose better. I attended Conference forenoon. Bro. Cottingham called on me about some of his invention enterprises. Rested. Saturday 21st 1870 I went to committee at 8 & Conference at 9. Dr. Keener was elected Bishop to be ordained today. Had a talk with Bro. Cottingham - wonderful revelations of mental experience & spiritual dreams &c. I saw Bro. McKenzie. I dreamed last night that my little was very sick & they said she would die. As soon as the novelty of my present situation began to wear away - I long for the quiet & peace of home. I attended the services for ordaining J. C. Keener a bishop. A sermon was preached by the aged Dr. Lovick Pierce. The ordination was imposing. I slept & read & rested in the afternoon. Heard Dr. Hanna at night. Monday May 23rd 1870 Attended Conference Wednesday May 24th 1870 I rose feeling pretty well although I was so sleepless I walked the floor last night. Went to hear Bishop Marvin preach at night. Thursday May 25th Well this morning. Cool. Conference adjourned about 1 finally. Went with Uncle Sam to his old home & other places. Friday May 27th Got all ready to start home with Allena & dispatched & at 12 were on our way home by railroad for haste. Saturday May 28th 1870 We reached New Orleans, went to Red River boat landing and took passage on Grand Era for Shreveport - home. Made purchases for Austin Cook. Passed several boats starting out. Sunday steamed all day and entered Red River. Read Lucille awhile. Reached home about June ist. June 4th Saturday evening. I bade goodbye to wife & children at the foot of Milam Street & they drove off with Fuller. I went aboard the Texarkana & about dusk we steamed down the river. Sunday June 5th We reached Grand Ecore after dinner. Went to Natchitoches to take the stage at midnight, but it had gone to Many in the morning irregularly. We returned to Grand Ecore & staid all night. Monday June 6, 1870 In a hired buggy we drove toward Many. Stopped at Mrs. Stoker's to take shelter from a shower of rain. She says she came here in 1817, when 25 years old & lived here ever since. Stopped at Mr. Pressley's 2 miles from Many for the night. Mr. Pressley visiting - his cousin talked with me & assisted me in securing a list of traders. Tuesday June 7th 1870 Drove into Many in time for Court, but had to wait till tomorrow. Wednesday June 8 1870 We settled the contest & Bob was delivered to his mother, but went with her very reluctantly. Some hints of recapture, but we drove off with Bob at 11 & reached Grand Ecore (33 miles) at 8 p.m. I lay all night without going to sleep - had taken a cup of strong coffee for supper and must suffer. Thursday June 9th 1870 Completed a list with help by Blackstone. Continued waiting about. Had severe diarrhea most of this day. Waited Friday the 10th & got on board steamer La Belle about 3 oclk a.m. on Saturday June 11th. Sunday June 12th 1870 Arrived at the stock landing about 1 p.m.. We got off & walked home from this point. Found Oscar still alive & not apparently worse than when I left. Monday June 13 1870 I went to my office about 8 a.m. Collected 18$ from Mrs. Spanier - paid 4.32 to La Belle - carried my valise & ball of ore off - celled on Henry Eistner & Warren Eistner with a claim for 1917.41 & on B. Hirschman with 2 notes each 100$ & appointed interviews. Wrote letters - Visited Mrs. Ivey on business - Agurs called & gave me a case. Lay & rested long time about noon. Advised with Savage. Did a good business today. Walked home about 5 calling at the Court House to order a copy of mortgage. Dr. Sanders comes to see the little sick boy. I had a little headache but got well after dark. Savage came to look at the old buggy. Tuesday June 14th I went to Parish Court & did a little business. Wrote a little in my office. Joined in making Ed Austin's bond. Got a copy for Agurs - called at Stacey & Boland's. Looked for Dyer who finally took me out in his buggy. Aunt Lyd & Pep came out. Oscar is very low & weak. Savage & Wylie took the buggy away. Eva came to have her pictures today. Gus begins to make fence today. Wednesday June 15 1870 I walked down & soon after Aunt Lyd & Allena followed, intending to go to Marshall. We effected partition of the Austin property between Hodge, minor, and his mother Emma. I walked with the ladies to take ice-cream & to Mrs. Flemings. Wrote in my office. Slept. Walked home about 3 or 4. Oscar seems too weak and sick to live long. I went to see Judge Levisee at evening & talked vith him. Allena went home with Aunt Lydia. Thursday June 16 1870 I went down to my office about 8 & was also on the levee and other places. Could not do much and came home about 11 or 12. Got a keg of nails 8 penny, a ham, and bottle fine brandy for our little sick boy. He grew a little worse and was evidently sinking past hope. Dr. Sanders came in the evening. Friday June 17 1870 After sinking gradually all night our little son Oscar died about fifteen minutes before six o'clock. We buried our only Son, our sweet dear lovely little boy at sunset after a shower of rain. Saturday June 18 1870 I went to my office about 8, wrote several letters, attended to several items of business & returned home abour 5. I took dinner at the restaurant today. Rain again. Sunday June 19 1870 I remained at home all the morning & none of us went to church. Afternoon Bro. Page came by and I went with him over to the Sundayschocl. He sat and talked with me a while on our return. Monday June 20 1870 Molly walked down with me in the morning. I was in my office but a little while. Made purchases at Hervey Elstner & Warren's. Fuller & Allena returned on the cars from Marshall. I found them & attended them most of the time till we came home. I ordered dinner from the restaurant for us & we ate in a room of the Brook's house. After a second visit to the photographis gallery we rode out in a hack, early afternoon. I lay down but could not sleep. On the way I got a sack of sugar, cherry pectoral, Frank Leslie & celery which I sent out 2 months ago by a waggoner who carried it to the country and then brought it back to the wrong place. This morning Bro. Wilkinson requested me to preach for him next Sunday. I rashly consented & afterwards the thought weighed heavily on my mind. Alonzo & Hattie & Mrs. Sanders same out & staid all night. I played the flute a little at night. Began writing a brief. Tuesday June 21 1870 I went down with Alonzo - staid in my office awhile - made a deed to Judge Levisee wrote some and returned with Alonzo about noon. He & Hatty left. Venetia staid till nearly sunset & went home. I am thinking of my promise to Bro. Wilkinson to occupy the pulpit for him next Sunday. Played the flute at night. Made a swing. Wednesday June 22 1870 I went down late - afoot. Wrote letters &c. Met Mal Moore & came home in his buggy with him at 3 p.m. after making some purchases. Engaged with M. S. Took the first dose of my liver medicine. Thursday June 23 1870 I felt dull & badly this morning & did not go down town till late in the evening - after sunset. I tried to see bro. Wilknson at his office but failed. Stood awhile in front of Hyarns & Kennedy - received a paper from John Hicks. Rode out part of the way with Capt. W. H. Dashiell. I am taking liver medicine regularly. Friday June 24 1870 I walked down rather late, staid a little in my office - called at the revenue office; saw Beale a little. Looked for bro. Wilkinson, but he was gone. Consulted with Wimberly & Catliff. Sent a letter to Ricks. Took soup. Returned about 5. Amanda's M.S. at night. Little chance to get out of the task. Saturday June 25 1870 I went to my office - received a $49.75 draft from Reed & Cary and cashed it. Went to see Page & with Donley called on Mr. Dodd to preach for us tomorrow & he consented. I staid & talked with him some time. Felt much relieved. Called to see Beale twice during the day. Passed about a good deal; did but little. Came home afternoon. Sunday June 26th 1970 I went to hear Mr. Dodd preach, but staid home the rest of the day. Visited Beale. Spoke for ice-cream, but it was sent out in a vase instead of the freezer & I sent it back. Eugenia felt badly in the evening & took a little morphine. Monday June 27, 1870 I hoed in the garden a little while before breakfast. Walked down after. Allena and Molly came down about 10 to make calls. I looked for J. T. Barlow but did not find him. I called on Beale. Walked out home alone about 6. Mrs. Gill & daughter were at our house. I was very tired. Much cloud & some rain. Tuesday June 28th I walked down late after hoeing a little in the garden. Saw Mr. Downs & learned that Austin was in town. Did some office work. Called at Mrs. Macklen's beer saloon in the evening & talked some time with her & was about to write but we were interrupted I called at the recorder's office to see John Hicks. Walk home was a little muddy. My foot was sore & I felt weary ill on reaching home. Austin was there. I lay down at dark. My bowels were a little out of order, probably from the medicine I have been taking for my liver. Wednesday June 29th 1870 (Written 30th) Rode down most of the way; having flux or symptoms of its approach. I am afraid to walk. I saw Mrs. Macklen &e today, but still did not write the lease for them. Talked with a bartender there who made some strange revelations of the corruptions of mankind. Mrs. Macklen gave me a statement that will be valuable in prosecuting my claim against her. I left rather early in the afternoon to come home and get some lumber - palings hauled out. I felt nearly sick with flux - could not swing the girls much. Played the violin at night & made my fingers sore. Retired early. Gave Mrs. Gibson advice about chest of tools. Thursday June 30th Most of the day was occupied in writing letters, a lease for Mrs & Mr. Brandenburg especially in getting a sale made of Mrs. Austin Ivey's property; & the purchaser's attorney made some difficulty about the title & we did not get it closed up tonight. I rode out in a cart with Mr. Willis. Eugenia & I went over to see Capt. Dashiell & Juliet left alone by the departure of his son & family. I am less threatened with flux. Friday July ist 1870 I attended to some business during the morning, and then came out with a buggy & got Eugenia, Allena & Hally & went down to be ready for the cars as we are going out to Elysian Fields. We got on well till we reached Wascom's, where I got out before the cars moved up to the platform & had to go off so far that I did not get out till the cars started. Hallies carpetbag was lost or left on the cars. A carriage was there for us but the mules pulled it slowly & with difficulty. We got water at Lister's & Hardy Strickland's & reached Elysian Fields at dark. Slept at Austin's. Saturday July 2, 1870 Went down to Alonso's & passed the day & all night. Nelson came to see me at night. Sunday July 3 1870 Late in the morning we went to Elysian Fields and staid all day. Attended prayer meeting at night. Wm. H. Dashiell who left Shreveport the evening before we did reached here last night & is here yet, sick. Slept at Alonso's. Monday, July L, 1870 I carried the girls down to Alonzo's & went to Holland Anderson's, but found he was gone to Shreveport. Went to see Elias Levis & got 70$ of my pay from Nelson. We go up to Elysian Fields tonight to be ready to start home early. Tuesday July 5 1870 We started in a wagon after 4 & reached Wascom's a quarter before 8. Cars took us on at 8-1/2. Took on Judge Creswell at Shreveport. Attended to business till my head began to ache & I suffered all the latter part of the day. Got well at night. Mr. Cook came home with us & we brought some chickens home far stock. Could not find Holland Anderson in town but took other testimony. Wednesday, July 6, 1870 I went to my office & did some business, but could not copy letters because my letterbook at home. Was in the Court House afternoon. But little headache today. Rode out after 6 p.m. Jennie & I went to our new place at dusk. Thursday July 7th 1870 Soon after I got up I went down to the lumber yard and counted out 500 palings, having on the way engaged a wagoner to haul them home. I also hired a man & mule to plow. Mr. Cooke & I vent down together, most of the way in Mr. Mean's wagon. I wrote many letters - visited Beale a time or 2 - took some headache, but a rain came up & the air became remarkably cool. We came out together in Reuben's wagon & brought some sugar & coffee which Mat Moore's wagon brought to the mile house. I cut down weeds in the garden. The girls took a ride by moonlight. Friday July 8th 1870 Mr. Cooke went down with me. We walked. I made indexes to my copying books & wrote some - visited Beale - paid for Alonzo's corn - found a very sick man near us. Called on Mr. Pullsn for Rye's claim. I got the Pressley transcript. I tried to get the sick man hauled to the infirmary. We rode out together. I read papers & then examined the Transcript & formed a conclusive point. Saturday July 9th 1870 Mr. Cooke & I went down together. I was writing a brief nearly all day. Visited Beale just before I started out & walked home. Remitted 50$ to Gen. Rogers at Jefferson. At home I was about to write after supper but concluded to rest. Not long after lying down I felt a strange tingling in the urinary duct - tried to relieve that by cold water &c. Then suddenly a severe pain seized me & continued with unremitting severity till about 2 oclock in the night, morphine gave me relief. Sunday July 10 1870 I did not feel well enough & did not go to church today. Remained at home & recovered strength. Mr. Cooke walked in part to church & back. Monday July 11 1870 I attended in my office working at my brief. Afternoon I went home in the carriage & Alena, Molly & Eva came down with me - Allena to embark on the Steamer Nick Wall for Memphis with Mr. Cooke & Fuller. We saw them on board & they left about sunset. The girls & I walked home at dusk. I wrote some at night. Did not go to see Beale today. Tuesday July 13 1870 In my office I was busy most of the day making maps of the check survey & surroundings. Mrs. Ivey's sale came off again at 12 - Campston bid it off at 2500$ & odd dollars. I declined topray & take the title on hasty advice. I collected 90$ from Hirschman, 10$ being already paid. At home I set the girls to writing copies of my brief till late in the night. "Uncle" Isaac arrived today. I received a load of lumber from Alonzo & attended to loading for his wagon. Also a load from Hawthorne. Bought some provisions for Gus who builds my fence. Called at Mrs. Ivey's on my way. Visited Beale a little. Wednesday July 14 1870 We all wrote at home till I left at 10 oclk. I worked on my brief at my office. Paid Burnside 9$ in full. Paid 5$ for the little wagon I got for my little son. Called to see Beale several times. Mrs. Ivey came in. We kept trying to make the land trade for her today. I rose from my writing after 6 & spent a long time trying to get Reuben's wagon to carry me & some freight out. Got one at last - carried out a barrel of meal, side of bacon, rice & my basket. Came back in the wagon to stay with Beale who is likely to die soon. The lawyers did not get off to Monroe as expected. I dined at Brook's - Judge Land at the same table. I brought my papers down for work at night. Wrote these 2 pages. Michael Ryan speaks at the Brook's house. I am writing in the room Gen. E. Kirby Smith used as head quarters of the Transmississippi Department. near 11 at night. Mark stays at home tonight. Thursday July 14 1870 Soon after day broke I walked home & tried to sleep, but could sleep only a little. I saw Venus & Jupiter very near together this morning. I staid home nearly all day - went down about 5 or 6 p.m. Saw Beale awhile - looked after several items of business; came home & went with Molly to Judge Land's where there is a party. Returned alone at 11-1/2. Friday July 15 1870 I went down rather late - made efforts to sell the Austin property but no success yet. Not ready to start to Monroe. Judge Wercks & others got off. I saw Beale a little - still alive but sinking. Saturday Jly 16 1870 I went down earlier expecting to get off for Monroe on the Rudolph. Began to write a petition vs Mrs. Macklen; but first her husband then herself called on me for legal assistance. I went to defend her & Brandenburgh against some charges in Crowell's court. Still trying to sell for Mrs. Austin with some prospect of success to Lake Newell; & also D. J. Elder. Settled with Moss Sterrett & Bill harper at 15$. Drove out with Lake. Called on Mrs. Austin to learn when she was married. Trade nearly closed but wait till Monday. I dined on Rudolph but will go on the stage Monday. Wrote at night letters & this. I have 5 good copies of my brief & some others. Monday July l~th 1870 I went to the Recorder's Office to attend to some clients there, but there was no preparation for continuing the trial begun on Saturday 15th. I learned at last from Kilpatrick that the case would be postponed. City vs State Mrs. Macklen & Gabriel Brandenburgh for breaking into a house. Mrs. Macklen's own would be postponed till after my return from Monroe. I tried to effect the sale of Mrs. Ivey's house to Lake Newell & got it nearly ready when I had to leave on the stage for Monroe about 2-1/2 p.m. Traveled very slowly & reached Red Chute at dusk. Took supplies there & I borrowed a blanket for pallet & pillow during the night. Rolled on slowly all night. Tuesday July 19th 1870 We had Minden before daybreak - I scarcely slept - having to sit or lie uncomfortably. At Arcadie took on 2 young men & at Jesse Fuller's old place dinner & widow lady & old negro woman her servant - we entered a good coach at Vienna. After night awhile I gave the widow all the back seat & lay on the roof of the coach with my blanket & a little sachel for bed. It was rough tossing & I had to hold myself in place with a very rigid grasp to keep steady enough to sleep. I must note a strange child - little girl, deaf & a little imbecile at our breakfast stand, going barefooted, helping about breakfast & rather petted and jested by others - I learned she had her second husband, an old man of 50 who attends to the horses for the stage. I came down to my seat about 3 in the night. Wednesday July 20th 1870 We passed through Trenton as the morning broke. I slept some before breakfast at the Lewis House. Attended session of Court. Henry Gray introduced me to Judge _____, but this occurred on the morning of ______. Thursday July 21st 1870 Judge ______ told me I might call at his house & exhibit the map with explanations; showing that these is no conflict of survey between the Check land & the Kleberg land in Austin Co. Texas. As the case had been submitted in brief, I was not allowed to argue it orally. Friday July 22nd 1870 I went to Judge ______ and explained my map to him. Attended Court every day, but there is no session today. Saturday July 23rd 1870 A short session of court. Sunday July 24th 1870 I attended preaching & heard bro. Armstrong. A small congregation. Monday July 25th 1870 I had Bowman's record amended & argued his case a little. I am about ready to start home & have concluded to go to Vicksburg & take the steamboat for Red River. Tuesday July 26th 1870 I was on the cars at 5 and reached Vicksburg about 11 a.m. Went up to a height & overlooked the town. Dinner & slept. Met Mr. Lansom whom I had not seen since 1848 or 1849. After tea, I went up & visited Mr. Lansom, his wife and daughter. They had only one child left out of 4 or 5 born to them. She was born in San Augustine in 1848 or 9 & I probably saw her then as an infant. I ate heartily peaches & sugar. Returned about 10 - Our talk was of ecclesiastical matters mostly. I told them of many changes by death in the list of our former friends. Wednesday July 27th 1870 We are still in port at Vicksburg waiting for the Steamer The City of Vicksburg - which came about 10 a.m. We left about 1 p.m. Bowmen & wife are aboard for Allexandria, their home. We steam down into a long bend of the river which has been cut off some years. The water is almost clear. We are much detained with our freight. Thursday July 28th 1870 We reached the Wharf-boat about 4 p.m. The Era 9 had passed up this morning. I walked down the bank alone. Missed supper. Friday July 29th 1870 Passengers arrived from Shreveport. Mrs. Ivy - of Shreveport - Another walk. Many boats passed yesterday & today. We lie down after music to wait. She was born in San Augustine r ate heartily peaches & sugar. Saturdav 30th The Big Horn comes & we embark at 4 a.m. Nothing of interest - small crowd. Sunday 31st 1870 Progress slowly. When reading about midnight I discovered that my pocketbook had been robbed of two 20$ bills, leaving 9$ in small change in my pocket. It had been taken out night before last while my pants hung up in the Stateroom - perhaps. I preceded immediately to communicate it to the Officers of the boat. The Captain took the matter in hand & brought in one bill almost immediately. Tuesday August 2nd 1870 Got the other bill in the morning - One of the cabin boys had taken it and gave it up. I arrived at Shreveport in the afternoon & soon want out home. Found all well. Wednesday August 3rd 1870 W'ent to town soon after breakfast. Had many letters to answer. Wrote & shopped some with the girls, Molly & Eva. Molly staid later but Eva and I returned home early in the afternoon. I read a little in Lothair &c. At dusk with Jennie & the children I went over to Jones & bought some salt, peaches & an axehandle. I learned today that our Pressly case was gained. Thursday August 4, 1870 I walked down between 8 & 9 - wrote some letters & attended to several matters of business on the streets. Conferred with Chapman & gave up the Nicholson notes. Home early. Soup at Brook's - dinner at home. Finished Lothair. Friday August 5th 1870 Not feeling very well. I did not go down till about 2 oclk. I put a blanket on the stage to be carried to Red Chute. Walked on the street to see Henry Elstner & Warren - sent several letters to Benton. Called at Mrs. Spannier's. Col. Kilpatrick being a little drunk, took me into his office & gave me a long confidential talk. At night Jennie read to me a little. I made out head notes of a speech & went over it by them. Saturday August 6 1870 I attended in my office today - writing petition - a trial broke me up. Counseled with Pegues - started home - called at Court House - went back, got soup; went down & made a settlement with Henry Elstner & Warren. Walked home - took some food - called to see Judge Levisee & left at dusk. Sunday August 7th 1870 I walked down to preaching at 11. Hired a buggy to drive back & kept it till night & then drove down to church with Eugenia, Eva & Hally. I spoke in place of Bro. Wilkinson in the pulpit! Monday August 8th 1870 Eugenia, Percy & Hally went down with me in the buggy. Eugenia stopped to pay visits. I left my keys at home and could not get into my desk & could do little work. Wandered about the streets trying to hire a plow horse. Conferred with Jewell about repairs to the new House. Went to see bro. Page who is sick. Found Eugenia at Mrs. Flemings - afterward on my way home found her at Mrs. Cutliff's & left her there, & taking Percy with me I walked home, called at the Court House. Got a load of lumber - 25 scantlings, 30 planks & 100 palings - planks 16 ft. long 12 in. wide & 1 in. thick. I am alone tonight. A carpenter came over to look at the house. Tuesday August 9th 1870 A plowmen came this morning but could not work his oxen. Jesse went down with me & we found Eugenia at Mrs. Owen's. I went with her to Mrs. Pitt's & then to my office & wrote several letters. Rain fell during the day after we got home. I found Jennie at Mrs. Grogard's at 5 p.m. & we walked home together. We could not read much at night. Wednesday August 10th 1870 Mr. Rickets began to work on our house today. I walked down & staid about town most of the day doing but little. Walked home in the evening with hinges for the gates. Too tired to do anything at night. I saw Stroud & several people from Texas. Wrote to Alonzo to meet Jennie at the Station. Thursday August 11 1870 I did but little today - staid in the Court House observing an examination awhile. Walked down early with Judge Levisee along the Railroad. I tried to get someone to plow & some, lumber brought up but failed. August 12th 1870 I called by the house where Mr. Rickets was at work. He stops this morning for want of lumber. and feeling a little unwell. I did some work in my office, called on E & B Jacobs for Peyton & Bro. Alonzo's wagon came & I got leading for it. Called on bro. Page. A lawyer Davis called on me for advice & I counseled with him a long time. I followed the wagon out two miles; took lunch at Jones & rode back in a bread wagon. Walked home. Worked at night Cobb begins breaking up the ground. Saturday August 13 1870 I went to my office as usual - attended a public meeting a while & returned to my office. Could not read for dulness - went & got dinner. Sat on the banquette awhile then to Kennedy's and amused myself with his papers. Visited Mr. Page at Mrs. Flemings. Rode home in 2 carriages. Sunday. August 14th 1870. I remained at home resting all day & reading a little. Monday August 15th 1870 I passed most of my time in my office doing very little. Called at Mrs. Macklen's awhile. With Tandy called at the Court House in the evening. Read at night from Harper. Tuesday August 16th 1870 I had been in my office not long when Alex. S. Field came in with Fanny & Walter. Before noon all walked out home. Staid till 3 or 4 oclk & then took the children down again. Learned that Fred Tally had been shot in a quarrel over the gambling table - wound pronounced mortal. We remained some time. I examined the books of White Smith & Baldwin, found an entry of 90$ paid by Stedman to them. Then I wrote an explanation to Stedman. It was dark when we got home. Our turnips were sowed today. I sat up composing a little at night. Aug. 17 Wednesday I walked down with Field who took Walter with him - also Jesse went with us. I went in to see Fred Tally who is about to die with the wound he received yesterday. I passed much of the morning with him - also brought Rev. John Wilkinson. Field left on the cars. Fanny stays, though she & Hally & Percy came down. Tally died about 4 p.m. I tried some time before I got a dray for some salt & other things, & rode up with it. Copied out some lines at night. Cobb brushed in the turnips today. Talked with Mr. Elder about legal fees. Thursday August 18th 1870 Henry want down with me today & swept out the hall. I staid in my office nearly all day. Slept a little afternoon. Went to the levee at Sale & Murphy's. Met Nic Moore. Mark Yates left for Shelby today. Howell Field came down from Marshall, but did not find me till I started home. A Mrs. Miles came in & talked volubly of her affairs. I met Eva and the children & we all rode out on a platform car except Howell & Percy. I read at night & reviewed - Fred Tally. Friday August 19th 1870 I rode down in a buggy with a Friendly negro. Sat in my office most of the day. Howell & Percy came & Jesss. I went with them to the Ice Works & then for a row on the river. Rode out with bro. Dyer. Wrote at night. 20th August 1870. Saturday Walked down partly with Stewart. Tried to get Stewart & Jewell and Neeland to settle a judgment but failed. Cave Pink Hyams some MS. Howell dined with me at the Restaurant, I was employed by Mr. Strube to prosecute suitors Gas Co. I read a little down at the foot of the stairs. Walked out Texas road & called at Mr. Rickets'. Felt too ill to do much & retired early. Sunday August 21 1870 (written 24th) I did not go to church today, but remained at home. Mr. Sims & Mr. O'Neal called afternoon. Monday August 22 1870 I went to my office as usual. Read some - began a fresh course of reading. Howell did not go home today - I wrote a letter to him & put it on the cars. Also a letter to Alonzo appointing Thursday next for Eugenia to meet him at Waskom's Station. I met Wm. Caraway, who agrees to come & stay with us tonight & take Eva home with him tomorrow & so does. I heard of the killing of Bob Booth by Levi Pressly. Ordered execution for Pressly against Stewart & Jewell; Conferred with Leverett. Howell dined with me at Brook's. Tuesday August 23 1870 I read some proof-sheet today. Eva goes homeward with Caraway. I got up early & went to Hay's & got some grain to feed Caraway's mules. After breakfast read awhile & went down to my office. Read syllabus of Rep. 21 An. Chapman walked with me far as the beer house & we talked & took beer together. I could not read much at night. Wednesday August 24th 1870 I spent moat of the day in my office reading. I rode down in a buggy with Looney. Thursday August 25th 1870 Hally went down with me & we staid till after 12, then rode out Reuben's hack, took dinner & returned to town with Eugenia, Percy & Jesse. We went straight to the depot and I saw them all on the cars & away for Waskom's station. Sat the rest of the day about the office. Pegues was with me. Leonard also, talking about some verses recently published for me in the Bulletin. I rode out with Dr. Kindall. A good rain comes at night. I wrote a little. We are few in number about the house. Friday August 26th 1870 Molly & Miss Emma Conway went down with me. I staid in my office nearly all day. Read a little & wrote some. Got a letter from Austin. We all three rode out in an open carriage in the evening. I wrote & played a little music at night. Saturday August 27th 1870 I passed most of the day in my office, but could read & write to much purpose as I felt badly. I hunted up Col. Waskom & learned from him that Jennie had got off without delay from the station although Alonzo had not got our letter & so had not comefor her. Conferred with Judge Ricks about the execution vs Stewart & Jewell. A public meeting but I had too much headache to remain in it. Sunday August 28th 1870 I walked to church & back. Mark came home before sunset. Monday August 29th 1870 I was in my office as usual & read & wrote a little; for a monthly part of Appleton's journal. Molly went home with Emma Conway for the night. I read till pretty late. Tuesday August 30th 1870 Mr. Rickets called early. I went to my office - carried Appleton's journal to be bound. Read a little. Conferred with Stewart & then with Judge Ricks - concluded to settle. I came home early - scattered turnip seed & rested. Read Appleton's - then M.S. The girls returned at evening. Cool. Capt. Dyer came by to see about lumber. Wednesday August 31st 1870 Quite cool this morning. I rode down from near the Mile House. Remained at my office most of the day till 4 p.m. Called at Capt. Leavenworth's on ray way. Read at home. Mr. Dillon called & staid till dusk. After dark we went up to Capt. Barret's & returned before the moon went down. Sept 1st 1870 Thursday I read awhile in my office when a woman called for me to assist in a prosecution of a woman of the basest sort called Greasy Jane charged with a murderous assault on an old woman named Rowan at the instance of Charley Rowan, the keeper of Greasy Jane & the Son! of the old woman attacked! Adjourned at 3-1/2. I made some collections and paid bills. Walked home with Molly & Emma Conway - halting in Crockett St. I could not read much at night. Friday September 2nd 1870 I was engaged again in the examination of the case against Geasy Jane & Charles Rowan. Could do but little afterward. Maj. Ashton came in also. Saturday Sept 3rd 1870 Examination continues. Maj. Ashton left to attend the meeting of the nominating Convention. I had a headache coming on gradually all day. It was bad till late at night. I talked with old Mrs. Rowan & let her tell her story. Had business with Agurs as yesterday. My health seems seriously disordered & I feel sadly the absence of Eugenia & Hally - My head became easier at night. Sunday Sept. 4th 1870 I did not go to church, being unwell. In the evening I rode out with the girls in a carriage brought by Messrs. Sims & Bacon - then down to Leman's for cream. Wrote to Eugenia at night. Monday Sept. 5th 1870 I was up tolerably early. Walked down calling at Mr. Grogard's & other places to inquire about the disposal of our extra milk. I looked for Cobb to plant turnips. Went to the levee & was detained there & at my office by Kneeland. Was too late for an appointment with Capt. Dyer & Mr. Wise. Got 10$ of my fee from Mrs. Notaro. Got a donkey from a negro. Read some at night. Read but little in my office. Tuesday Sept 6th 1870 Judge Hicks & I received 400$ from Stewart & Jewell on account of Levi Pressly, 375$ of it to be credited to him on his fee due to us. Yet we learn this morning that Pressly was killed in Jail last Friday night, doubtless by the friends of Bob Booth whom Pressly killed about 3 weeks before. I made several payments & settlements today. I was invited to address a temperance meeting in the evening. I rode out a little with Mr. Dyer, then with Mr. Dillon, who also carried me back to the church where I spoke finally & returned home at 10. I did not sleep well. Wednesday Sept. 7th 1870 I carried Henry down with me this morning & inquired for places where milk could be sold. Took Capt. Dyer's buggy & with John Hicks went to look at some ground. Then went to see Cobb Richardson about putting in my turnips again. In my office the rest of the day till I returned home at 4. Cobb had come & gone. I read a little at night. Brought home some rye to sow with turnips. Thursday Sept. 8th 1870 I sent Henny down with milk & he failed to find the place. I had been exerting myself a good deal about the grounds before breakfast & now I took the boy with me to Mrs. Swearingen's - thence I went to my office. Went home about noon, but Cobb had not come. Sent a note & 5$ by Mr. Steele to Eugenia. Failed to get corn from Alston. Got a little of Hays. After returning home with Molly I was very tired. Still I helped Cobb to plant turnips & rye. After supper remembered an engagement to attend a prayer meeting, borrowing Cobb's mule. Got back about 9 & went to bed but could not sleep much all night. Friday Sept 9th 1870 I sent Henny down to Mrs. Svearingen's early. After I went to my office, Dr. Sanders and Henry Hensley came in & I read a description of Hensley's invention of a mill which turns both stones to grind. I went to see Pep & hear from my people at Elysian Fields. Bought a lounge & had it carried to my office. Got a new bow & played some at night. Some rain came in good time for our turnips sewn yesterday, but we want more. I met & renewed acquaintance with Hunter Parsons today. Mr. Dillon called at sunset. Saturday Sept 10th 1870 As I walked down, I called at Alf Winters & asked him to buy me a little load of corn, which he did & called on me for the money which it gave me some trouble to raise it & pay him. I lay & rested on my couch a little. Sent for plain board building paper to N.O. $12.60 - letter will not leave till Era 9. Dined at Brook's house - home near sunset. Molly read more of Undine. My throat gave me trouble & kept me awake. About one o'clock in the night Fuller & his cousin Maggy arrived & we were up for a while. Sunday Sept. 11th 1870 My throat was in bad condition last night & I feel far from well today. So I do not leave home. Several persons call during the day. Fuller told me a good deal in confidence. I did send Henry to the Battle House with milk this morning. Monday Sept 12th 1870 Henry went to the Battle House - too late. I walked down & remained in my office awhile. Took some testimony at Weise's office. Filed suit vs. Mrs. Macklen & husband - or placed petition in the hands of Albert Leonard after consulting Taylor Pegues & Duncan. Had Dr. Ford to make another application to my throat which still hurts me - Lay down - moved my lounge in to my office. Read Appleton's a little. Percy & Jesse came home in the evening & a letter from Jennie says she will come on Wednesday. Tuesday Sept. 13 (written 16th) I went to town & attended Parish Court. Called on Mrs. Rowan & received 10$ balance due from her. Attended to some other business - taking testimony &c. Not all remembered. Came home pretty early. Wednesday Sept. 14th 1870 I expected Jennie on the cars today & put off my business in Court. She did not come & I took Reuben's wagon out & moved our furniture over to our new house. Carlin plowed & I helped. I slept alone in our new room. Thursday Sept 15th 1870 I rose early in the rain - rode the donkey down & got a fosset & tacks to fix the carpet. Rearranged furniture. Went down & met Jennie & Hally with Austin. Made some purchases & came home for the rest of the day; fixing up the house. Settled with Mr. Schaffner. I was nearly sick in the morning. Friday Sept 16th 1870 I rode the donkey down to the head of Milam Street & took Henry along who rode her back. I did not feel well enough to go to Court House. Finished the testimony in the case of Neals will today. Rode out with Dyer - took some dinner with Dillon. Bob Field came in today with letters from his father & Eva. Before I left this morning, I made a contract with Mr. Elder to bring suit for him or his wife against him & took his note for 70$. Saturday Sept 17th 1870 I walked down with Bob Field. Schaffner called & I went over to see Jewell. Called at the Court House - to my office. Met Jewell & Wilson Shff. & nearly finished a settlement. My headached & I could do little, Capt. Dyer brought me home & my head got better - nearly well by dark. Made some little repairs. Fuller came after dark. Sunday Sept. 18th 1870 I remained at home all day today trying to recruit my health & strength. Monday Sept 19th 1870 I worked about the house & grounds for some time in the morning. Went down with Henry to Fish's. Settled with Jewell today. Was at the Court House awhile. Conferred with Tom Todd but could not get his testimony taken. Brought out the pipe to bring water from the cistern into the house & put it in with Cobb's help. Tuesday Sept. 20 1870 Henry went down with me to sell milk & was successful. I attended to taking testimony for Dr. Neal - little other business today. Rode out with Capt. Dyer. Workmen begin my little crop fence. Wednesday Sept, 21st 1870 Percy is preparing to leave today. I got some nails to send out by him. I remained about my office during the day. Afternoon I started out & got in the buggy with William Crawford & his boy Joseph. He came out to Fuller's with me, but was so sick he could go no further this evening. My short crop fence across the back yard for a cow pen was mostly built today - part of the work done yesterday. I wrote a letter for the St. Louis Advocate. Thursday Sept. 22nd 1870 I got notice of the arrival of Austin's gold foil. I paid it out of the express office $32.35 & sent him the gold by Mr. Stringfellow. Percy left for school this morning in Shelbyville. I walked most of the way down town & back today. We planted onions in the garden today. Friday Sept 23rd 1870 I did not feel very well. When I got to town I lay down & read & rested for some time. Was not able to do much & came home early in a buggy with Capt. Dyer to the One Mile House. I retired very early for the night. Eugenia had severe pains the latter part of the night & I had to give her several portions of morphine, for part of which I went to Fuller's. Saturday Sept 24th 1870 (written Monday 26th) I went down as usual; had an interview with Dr. Neal, with Mr. Macusy, & with Prof. Williamson & got a copy of Macusy's account. At 10 a.m. Strube, my client, & Sale came to try their suit, but it was brought wrong - should have been against the gas company. Brought the suit anew. Met Drury Field & I talked with him a good while. Got my wall paper or plain board home & cut out one piece to put up at night. Things are not started in the order of occurrence. Got out execution against Davis for Peyton & Bro. Too tired & weak at night to do anything but lie down. Sunday Sept. 25, 1870 Felt unwell & remained at home all day. Mrs. Barrett &c passed at evening. Monday Sept. 26th 1870 I got in the wagon with young Dyer going down. I felt little like doing business, but wrote some letters - one to Maj. Wallace, a legal opinion on points of which he inquired. I worked at the paper awhile at night, but grew weary & retired. I rode out in Miles' carriage with Jones of Co. B of our Regt. A little sprinkle & cloudy day. Tuesday Sept. 27th 1870 I walked down by the side of Judge Levisee who was on horseback. I read a little in my office but felt too unwell to do much. I came home in Capt. Dyers buggy driven by the little stunted man: early, intending to work at the paper for the walls, but I was too weak & ill to do very much at that. Fuller came over about the time we were going to prayers. Wednesday Sept. 28th 1870 (written 29th night) I removed my couch & fixed a lock on the room. I read a little but had not my desk keys. I still work at the paper. Rode out with Dyer. Went to Jones' mill to renew an order. Saw Thomas just returned from New York. Thursday Sept 29th 1870 After working at the paper in the morning, I vent down riding in Dan Ward's buggy. Felt tired & sore - lay down awhile. Read a little still. A little sprinkle p.m. Dyer brought me out again. I did not work at the paper this evening, but repaired the swing for Ha1ly. Met Mr. Mead today. Friday Sept. 30th 1870 I came to lay office after working about home as usual. Attended to business with Capt. Roots & also with Capt. Tandy during the day. Read but little. Molly & Maggy came down & I attended on them a little. At dusk I found the little Jennie donkey. Rode out with Capt. Dyer. Counseled & wrote for Mr. C. Giro - got Foster's deed acknowledged for record. Retired early. Saturday October 1st 1870 I arranged some business affairs & got on the cars & came to Marshall - Called on Dr. Starr at night. Sunday October 2, 1870 I attended at the Methodist Church at 11 - at the Baptist Church at night. Monday October 3 1870 I was in town & law offices & about the Court House most of the day - No Court called today. Reading Prescott's Peru since Saturday night. Tuesday October 4 1870 I was about the town-square before noon - Court was called afternoon, but I was not present - I am getting ready to go home tomorrow. Met Stedman in Poag's office. October 5th 1870 Wednesday I got in the cars & came home. Remained about town till near 1 o'clock & rode out with Wallis in Capt. Dyer's buggy. Thursday October 6th 1870 I made a latch for a gate before I left this morning - besides piling some cordwood. I sat in my office writing most of the cay & came home about sunset. Called at Don Ward's on my way & brought over Mr. Kouts with whom I exchange a young cock for a pullet. Jennie read the Artists Dream after dark. Friday October 7th 1870 I went to my office awhile & then hunted up a surveyor & spent the rest of the day in fixing the boundaries North & East of my ground. Hunter Parsons carried the compass. Saturday October 8th 1870 I was in my office as usual. Trial of Strube vs Gas Co. Settled some bills - was at the entertainment in the new "Hole in the Wall". Called at the Court House on my way out. Sunday Oct. 9th 1870 Hally went to preaching with me, riding the little donkey which I led or drove. A little rain last night & clouds today. I met bro. Cravens at the pastor's office. Did not go at night; walked with Jennie & Hally at evening. Monday October 10 1870 (written 11th night) I felt a little dull & depressed but wrote some & did some office business. Came home weak & exhausted & could do nothing but lie down. Hired men to do my papering today. Tuesday October 11th 1870 I rose early & thinned turnips before breakfast. Walked down & back. Was in the Court-House awhile & in the jail to confer with a prisoner who wanted to get me to defend him. Fuller came after supper. I read Kent end of Vol. I. Received pictures of Mrs. Scott Siddons today. October 12th Wednesday I was in my office as usual. Attended Parish Court & tried a plea of prescription. Read some in the office - carried Kent Vol. 2 & walked out. Met Capt. Dyer near Mrs. Renfro's, & on arriving found that Eva & Etta had come. Thursday Oct. 13th 1870 We received news this morning of the death of Gen. Lee. We expected to take the children to the show, but when I reached town I learned that all the town was in mourning for Gen. Lee. Etty & Hally came & I found them in my office on my return from Parish Court which adjourned. I started back with the girls & at the head of Milam St. we saw Cousin Maggy & Eva stalled in the buggy. Molly had gone for help. Bob Parker passed & I borrowed his whip & drove the girls home. Maggy got out & walked down with me. Eugenia came down & we attended services at the church - shopped a little & came home. Met Mat down town. None of us attended the circus at night. Rained a little in the night. Friday October 14th 1870 The day was occupied with the procession of the circus & menagerie, the political speaking by Gov. Warmoth & others, & the interest connected therewith. The girls came down to witness the show, but there was no spectacle except the scattered procession & the crowds on the streets. For some reason there was no performance till night. I drove Capt. Dyer's buggy out for Eugenia & in the evening he brought her & Hally out while I rode on his son's wagon. Eva & Etty went to the show at night with Fuller's people. For some time the grading of Texes street & road has been progressing, preparatory to laying the railroad track for street cars. J. K. Holland was in town today, but I missed him. Saturday Oct. 15th 1870 This day was taken up with going to the circus & little else was done. As I drove out for Eugenia I met Hally with other girls & she rode back with me & we all went together. I was in the Court-House awhile in the morning. Sunday Oct. 16th 1870 Raining lightly all day - staid at home. Monday Oct 17th 1870 I went down about 9, but did not go to the Court House till afternoon, then attended to some business. Eva & Etty went with me to school, but it was very wet having rained all night, most of yesterday slightly & it continues today. I called to see Utz, but he was not in. Tuesday October 18th 1870 I went down earlier & attended Court nearly all day. Only Etty went to school today. I grew very weak in walking out this evening. Rain at night. 1st Cold Wednesday October 19th 1870 (written 2Oth) I went down & attended Court - sat in my office some time, but it was too cold. Had some lard brought up & trouble finding the dray. It was damp & cloudy all day till near sunset - then clear. Thursday Oat. 20th 1870 Eva & Etty went to school & I with them - to the Court House next after buying some school books. Wrote in my office - visit from Mr. Gray. Clear & bright all day. Mr. Gibbs of N. O. came in. I tried to register but could not take the oath. Called at Mrs. Rowan's a little. Walked home in company with Dr. Harris. Friday, Saturday & Sunday 21st Part of the day in the Court House & part in my office. Not much remembered. Bright & pleasant. 22nd - In Court some time during the morning - then in my office. Dreyful came in to consult. I walked round with Chapman about dinner. Rode out with Dyer in the evening. 23rd - Etty walked with me to church & I saw the blind brother in the pastor's study a while & heard him preach. Monday October 24th 1870 Written Wednesday. I attended Court & at my office without incident remembered. Telegram from Mr. Cooke. Tuesday October 25th 1870 In Court & office as usual. While Dr. Sanders was with me yesterday I got a dispatch from Mr. Cooke at Vicksburg 22nd that he would be here about Tuesday, but he does not arrive. I thought I eradicated the last patch of Coco-Grass this morning, but I was mistaken & found 2 more on the morning of Wednesday October 26th 1870 In the Court House & office as usual. I made an index to my letters. Wrote some others. Looked for Mr. Cooke but he did not come till a little after dark. The street rail-road is beginning to be laid. Thursday October 27th 1870 I gleaned Coco-grass in the morning. Fixed an addition to the book-case before leaving home. Mr. Cooke came later. I was introduced to Dr. Egan, brother of Judge Egan in the Court House. Was in there awhile & then in my office till Mr. Cooke came. I went with him down on the street. Called at Pike's bank and got valuable papers there deposited for him. The Saltus draft was roughly demanded. I was engaged by Capt. Thomas Poe of the Nick Wall to bring some suits for him. Met Mrs. Barrett & her girls & vent with them on board steamer D. L. Tally. Wrote petition & presented a note to S. Asher, endorser. Quite warm today. 28th Fri. I was in the Court House in the morning - my office most of the day. In Judge Egan's office p.m. Mat came - to Fullers. Saturday October 29th 1870 I proved up one judgment for $3259.92 today in Court & attended to some matters in my office. Talked with Mrs. Rowan. Came home early afternoon. Sunday October 30th 1870 Eva, Etta & Hally vent with me to church - Bro. WiUkinson being gone, we heard Mr. Clemens. Rec'd some good manuscript poetry from New York. Monday October 31 1870 I gleaned a little Coco grass in the morning. Did not enter the Court House till after roll-call, but first went with Fisher to have a lease signed by Fuller & Mark. Had also called to show a letter of Saltus to Pike. Was but a little while in Court which adjourned. Wrote then in my office some time - called on Robards - read. Etty came in & I went with her & got some more school-books. Walked home with her via Fish's & got sugar. Read Kent at night, felt badly & retired after 10. Caught a big Rat. Felt badly most of the night. Had a talk with Tally. Eva found her book. Tuesday Nov. 1st 1870 I was in Court after roll-call, then in my office. Sam John Todd - Dockery - Dyer &c. Hally met me on my way home. Did not read at night but slept well. 1870 Wednesday. Thursday 2 & 3 of Nov. On these days I went down to my office, then to the Court House a little while - then to my office to remain most of the remaining day. Hally met me both evenings on my return home. Thursday I found that Mr. Cooke's freight did not come by Silver Bow. I called on Mrs. Spanier & took a bill for her to a Mrs. Wilder near the head of Texas St. to collect 60$ but failed. I felt ill Wednesday, but searched that day for an advertisement in the South Western. For the same in Gazette Thursday - Read a little at night. Mild weather. Swung some girls at night. Friday Nov. 4 1870 I attended Court a little today & then in my office most of the day. Mild weather. I gathered Coco grass in the morning. Returning met Hally & Jesse. Saturday Nov. 5th 1870 Gathered some turnips before breakfast & other little work about the house. No Court today. While I was writing to E. C. Palmer & Co., Agurs came in. I attended to a sale for him. I came home early in a buggy with Dyer. Sunday Nov. 6 1870 This day 29 years ago we started to remove from South Carolina to Texas. Etta went with me to church. Late afternoon Fuller & I walked south a mile & back around White's, Levisee' s &c. Monday Nov. 7th 1870 Election day. I went down & did some work & returned before sunset. Sauntered about on the streets taking notes &c. Read a little at night. Tuesday Nov. 8th 1870 I staid nearly all day in my office investigating question of the conclusiveness of Judicial sales probate in solitude. A little rain & cooler. Wednesday Nov. 9th 1870 I eradicated some coco grass & volunteer irish potatoes. Attended in my office & wrote till afternoon. Eva came down & I attended her till she got her tooth pulled out. I had a negro woman client who wanted a divorce. We rode home in a carriage. Thursday Nov. 10th 1870 (written 11th) I got some business affairs disposed of today - Wiley gives up the office & Col. Pegues concludes to take his share with me. Nutt & Leonard are moving their office near the Court House. Called to see the rail-road agents about some freight shipped a year ago. Friday Nov. 11th 1870 I remained at home till late in the morning digging Coco-grass, sharpening the saw &c. It rains lightly most of the day. I did little in my office - came home early & fixed the saw & cut some wood &c. Molly & Maggy went to Marshall to attend the Fair today. Cool & damp. Saturday Nov. 12th 1870 I was in my office part of the day but effected little. Walked round with the girls awhile & went home with them early afternoon. I worked about the garden. Settled with Alf Winter in full today or yesterday by letting him have a silver wetch & a broken buggy. Rain at night - Saw Mr. Stringfellow from Elysian Fields. Sunday Nov. 13th 1870 It was raining a little today & I did not go to church but remained at home all day. Wrote some at night. Monday Nov. 14th 1870 I cut some wood in the morning, went down accompanied by Frank to get some bacon for Gus, his father. Called at the Bank & after a search & after almost giving it up, we found that my draft on Theo Saltus 263 Madison Av. New York was paid & so I rec'd the amount $55.00, 50c being chgd for collection. Then I had discounted a 60$ dft just received from Beekman; took up my endorsement at Pike's bank. Paid Levy 15$ Dillon 15 & 20$ on my insurance policy. Attended Court; examined the title of 3/4 of a lot for Dillon - wrote. Cool. Returned home with butter. Read at night. Tuesday Nov. 15th 1870 Cool. I went to the Court House & attended Parish & District Courts. Gave some attention to Leslie's case, a charge of forgery - an order for groceries on Walsh & Boisseau, Wrote in my office awhile. Got Mr. Cooke's box of freight &c and brought them out in a dray & overtook Eva on the way & on the bridge. Took out the bedding of John O. Cooke, my wife's grandfather lately deceased. Read from Maury's Physical Geography of the sea. Received new law books in the box. Wednesday Nov. 16th 1870 I wrought some about home this morning - then went down - attended Court awhile. Began to move my office things from one room to another in the Same building - sharing the room with Col. Pegues. I was called away from this to assist in the defense of a negro called Gibbs Edwards charged with larceny & convicted. Finished moving & went home Thursday Nov. 17th 1870 Written 20th. Little remembered, but I attended the Court a little. Friday Nov. 18th 1870 I was in the Court House most of the day trying Frank Leslie for forgery - I helped his defense but he was proved guilty & convicted. Not long after I walked out with Judge Levisee, to whom I showed the stone landmark at the W.E. corner of Section 1 Township 17 Range 14. Went to his house & sat awhile. Took a toddy on an empty stomach & had headache. Saturday November 19th 1870 I was in the Court House but no Court - In the office & with Hally & Etty a while & came out with them early. My barrel of apples were brought out & other freight. I rode in on the dray. Sunday Nov. 20th 1870 Etty & Hally went with me to church. Bro. Doty preached. Rained & we came home in a hack. I went to see Capt. Dashiell. Monday Nov. 21st, 1870 When I arrived on the streets this morning I learned that J. J. O'Connor had just died. Courts adjourned for the day in consequence. Went to my office & wrote a little - effected little. Staid awhile in Waiters & Elders. Brought Appleton's home & we read. Cold. I went to see Capt. Dashiell at Sunset. Tuesday Nov. 22nd, 1870 I attended Court awhile today but effected little there or in my office where I had no file. Hally & Jesse came down & went back alone. Eva called at the office a little. I was in the street looking at a funeral procession pass & learned that Maj. Robards was dead. I followed the funeral on foot & from the grave yard rode part way home in Capt. Barret's carriage. Cold. Read but little. Wednesday Nov. 23 I digged some potatoes in the morning & went down with the girls - fell in with Levisee & went by to see the street railroad building. Went to store & got Eva a book. Collected Etty's book account. Met Mr. Peyton & Son, got the elder's evidence, collected some money & made some payments. Was in the Court House awhile. Called a schoolhouse & paid Mr. Dodd 16$ - went to the woodyard & bought 1/2 cord of wood. Wrote some letters - Cobb came out with me & brought my able old boots, can of oil & a lamp. Mat went homeward in the morning. We read some at night. Thursday Nov. 24th 1870 I walked down with Isaac carrying a piece of Bois d'arc for Spofford Curlee which I had got from the hedge. Cobb plowed part of the potatoes. Isaac cut up my wood & I had it brought up today & kept comofrtable by the fire. Received the new books of Revised Laws. Wrote some letters & read a little. Called to see Capt. Dashiell at night & found him asleep. Jennie read to me & I read Kent alone. I was at the Court House a moment but Court was adjourned for Thanksgiving day. Cool. My throat & mouth being sore, I did not make family prayers tonight. Friday Nov. 25, 1870 I did not go to the Court House today, but remained most of the day in my office writing & talking with Col. Pegues. Left the office late. Read Maury & Murray Geography of Land & Sea at night. Paid some taxes today. Fuller called at night. Saturday Nov. 26th 1870 I sat in my office all day preparing deeds for D. J. Elder to sign. Came home late with Hally & Etty bringing some bundles. Sunday Nov. 27th 1870 Etty & Hally & Eva went with me to church. I went to see Capt. Dashiell before I started to church. In the evening I took a long walk alone to the Catholic school. Monday Nov. 28th No session of Court today. I had Elder's deeds signed today. Wrote a little - got some goods to bring home. Chapman walked out with me half way & Judge Egan. Jennie read Maury at night. Prs. Pressly's brother came in to see me this morning. Tuesday Nov. 29th I walked down with Pegues in the morning & back in the evening. Reviewed Elder's deeds & returned them to Buckner Comsr. Dr. Tatum from Shelby came in on some business - I wrote several letters. Cloudy & damp all day - Brought home some rainins to make a feast for Hally tomorrow on account of her birthday - Wednesday Nov. 30th 1870 I walked down rather late & sat in my office composing awhile, then went out to mail some letters & forward others. Saw the Carroll Boys & sent by them a bundle to mother. Paid Mr. Cooke's taxes $23.40 - walked out alone & we celebrated Hally's sixth birthday, with a good dinner. Read Physical Geography of the Sea. Cloudy & damp all day. Thursday December 1st 1870 I tried to make some collections today with little success. Sent off some letters - arranged to have Mr. Cooke's box sent to him. Sent out a barrel of flour & went by Fishe's - missed Hally & Jesse who went to meet me, & I went back to find them & lay down on the grass & let them pass. Geo. Marshall spoke to me on behalf of a prisoner condemned . Friday Dec. 2nd 1870 (written 3rd at night) I fell in with Looney going down. Remained in my office most of the day, writing a little & talking with Pegues & Foster. I got a letter & Mr. Cooke's box started to him today by W. Perry. John Todd came over at night & talked with me awhile. I went to see Capt. Dashiell after supper: he was sinking but talked with animation - our last talk. Jennie read Maury to me. I got a jug of syrup brought home, also a barrel of malt for cows which they don't like much. Called to see Goodman. Saturday Dec. 3rd While I lingered at home late this morning word came that Capt. Dashiell was dying. When I reached there he was dead. I assisted in laying him out - then went to town with Looney & some ladies. Mr. Garlick had been inquiring for me. I put a letter in John Todd's hands & at last saw Mr. Garlick & was employed by him to settle his brothers succession. Boorman came in & Mrs. Gibson - Rode out with Capt. Dyer. Bro. Field arrived while we were at supper. I went to Capt. Dashiell's & staid till after 10. Sunday Dec. 4th 1870 I rode to church on Mr. Field's horse, taking Hally behind me. Bro. Pipes preached. After dinner I attended the funeral of Capt. Dan. Dashiell at the house but did not go down to the graveyard, but stopped at the house as I passed. His horse had got out but we caught him. Monday Dec. 5th 1870 Field went down with me & I shoved him where he might purchase goods. I sat in my office much of the day. Was not in Court House. I came home late & Hally met me. Fuller entertained Field at night. Thursday Dec. 6th 1870 I left Field at home, he intending to leave soon. I called by Bercher's and bought a barrel of malt & sent it home for the cows. Got an order from Judge CresweI1 - was in the Court House awhile & in the recorder's office. Settled a claim with Dreyfus agent of Simon Isaac - paid by Duke - paid Dillon 15$ in full & he gave me a bottle of wine. Hope Allen made a settlement in the office & I could only scribble. Came home by the Texas road. Wednesday Dec. 7th 1870 I walked down by the Texse road. Was in the Court House a little & in my office the rest of the day. Wrote & forwarded some letters (Christmas Eve &c). Isaac brought corn this morning. I put a patch to the cow gate in the morning. Thursday Dec. 8th 1870 Walked down calling on DoDa again - in vain. Sat in the C. H. a little time - in my office most of the day. Came by Fish's & got another barrel of malt. Forwarded Elder's deeds to Texas -Wrote a petition for W. S. & B. vs. Hodges Estate. Friday December 9th 1870 Late I walked down with Looney on the tramway. Had Pegues key - called at the Court House awhile & was in my office the rest of the day. Feel that I am doing too little - composing a little - listening to Eugenia read at night. My health & digestion are un-usually good. Saturday Dec. 10th 1870 I worked till late in the cow pen & closing the cracks in Artimesia's house. I called at the Court House & heard several sentences pronounced - & Court adjourned till Jan 9th 1871. Thence to the office - sat musing, Nutt came in and staid - I walked on the street but failed to meet Mr. Baer. Brought home 10 apples & 2 oranges from Martin. Wet & cloudy all day. Sunday Dec. 11th 1870 I staid at home all day whittling for the children. Roads wet & muddy. Monday Dec. 12th 1870 I went to town late - Parish Court met & adjourned. nervous. I read & wrote a little but felt nervous. Jennie read to me at night. Tuesday Dec. 13 1870 I attended Parish Court & set cases for trial. little - Scribbling - Read Codes awhile. Pegues not in today. Carried a bundle of apples home for Molly & dry goods for Jennie. Wednesday Dec. 14th 1870 Attended Court but was disappointed about a trial. Sat in my office & read codes a little. Sleet - a little rain & clouds all day. Brought home my third dozen of apples from W. M. Martin. Began reading Smollet's history of England. Thursday Dec. 15th 1870 A day of incessant rain. I went to Court - but did not get a trial. Sat in my office & read Civil Code. Jalion Field came in & talked with me some time - Read Smollett (2nd night) History of England. Friday December 16th 1870 Still cloudy & rainy. I attended Parish Court a little and was in my office most of the day. Saturday Dec. 17th 1870 Mr. Spith called me over early this morning to witness his signature. I was in the Parish Court, but failed to get a trial. On the streets afterward but most of time in my office. Pegues had a load of wood brought today. Saturday Dec. 18th 1870 Hally & Etty went with me to church today. Cloudy & rainy still. Read Emorys report survey &c. Monday Dec. 19 1870 Cloudy yet a little sunshine a time or two, but no settled weather. I attended the Parish Court as usual to no purpose. Passed some time in my office. A partridge came to my window & I let it in & brought it home. Jennie read to me at night. I walked out with Bell on the railroad. Snow falls during the night. Tuesday Dec. 20 1870 Snow in small quantity. Cold & colder. I went to the Court House & took judgment for Speer vs. Cash. In my office - started home early, but turned back to get a dray & did much walking in vain. Saw Jo. at last on my way. The coldest night. Wednesday December 21 1870 Unusually cold. The faucett had been bursted by the ice which was frozen in it still & we had to start the stream by artificial heat. I went to my office & was there & about town most of the day. Bought boots for 2.50. Mat is in town. Thursday Dec. 22, 1870 Another burst in the cistern. I got the cherry trees but fear they are dead. Mr. Pegues was in the office some time. Read codes a little & attended to some business. Col. Buck Runnels in town. Friday Dec. 23 Still extremely cold. I went by the Court House. Horace was in a good while. Pegues & I fixed up the Pullen claim for suit. I wrote to G. B. Keener & others. I feel that I am effecting too little these cold days. Did not meet Mat in the morning. Read at night. Cold. Saturday Dec. 24 1870 I passed the day in town mostly as usual. Pegues had a load of wood. I accomplish so little these days that I am ill satisfied with my progress - Received & answered some letters. In the evening I got a few things to carry home. Etty & Hally came down & attended the "matinee". Eva returned home sooner. William Macklen gave me a handsome Christmas cake which I carried home. Overtook Looney & we passes Taylor & Pegues on the way "rightly slight". Baer paid 10$ in the evening - only. Still cold. Sunday December 25 1870 Etty & Hally went with me to church. It is cloudy & the cold abates a little. Some drops of rain fell in the evening. I feel dull & depressed. We had a good dinner today. Monday Dec. 26th 1870 Still wet & cloudy. I could make little progress in any business. Dispatched to Marshall about an injunction - no answer. Ed Wlltaon came to see us in the evening. I met Judge Levisee near home and proposed a discount to him. Tuesday Dec. 27th Rainy still. Answer from Marshall not conclusive. Anxious to do something in the case of injunction - but unable. Came home early but Jack had brought beef & I need not have brought any. I read a good deal at night but Jennie retired early. Ed failed to dine with us. Wednesday Dec. 28th 1870 (written January 3rd. night) I went to my office as usual, but did very little that I remember but on the 29th I went down intending to go to Marshall to see about the petition for injunction which I sent to Judge Williamson more than a week ago. Yes, now I remember, on the 28th. I made a collection & some remittances. After disposing of some other matters I went to the tax-collector to make my last payment of 39$ for myself & Fuller - but thee man had just gone with his rolls to make his final report in New Orleans. I went down to the levee to see if I could find him & have my name erased from the list of defaulters. But the boat was gone. I went back & paid that part which goes to the Parish. Then I prepared instructions for Fuller to take 22$ to N.O. & overtake Smith before he makes his report & tender the money & try to settle with him, & if not to spend the money on his wedding tour. He is to start the 29th to Memphis to take to wife our handsome cousin Allena Watson. At night he comes over to have his last visit to us before his departure. On the morrow (29th) I did not see him again, but was busy preparing to start to Marshall at l-1/2 p.m.; while he remains about home moving out his things - part of them to our house to give place for Mrs. Thatcher to occupy his house - as he and his new wife are to board at Mrs. Renfro's. On reaching the post office under my office, I found some valuable mail - including "Stepping Heavenward". Without any other baggage but this book I entered the cars & started for Marshall - exchanged salutes with some of our folks as I passed 400 yds from home - & read the book nearly all the way to Marshall - & I would have sat reading after the cars halted - but remembered that they were to go on to Hallsville. Called on the Clerk - hear nothing of my petition. Field is gone to his farm, but Priss Foster (nee) is with Mrs. Field & is crazy to go to Mr. Kaufman, her husband, who has left her determined to abandon her & has brought suit for divorce, alleging that she is guilty of such outrageous treatment to him as to render their living together unsupportable, i.e. that she beat his children. Poor girl, simple one! she tries to borrow 25$ from everybody to pay her way to Bonham in hopes that she may see him and induce him to relent. But no man having experience of her ways would ever try her again. Doomed by nature to be disagreeable - more for lack of sense than lack of principle. She is not so ugly - But at the age of 30 odd she has not more than the sense of a girl of 10. Without any means, she is also without home. Her brother's family can hardly endure her again. Well, she can work, is skilled with the needle - can wash & iron nicely, perhaps can cook - so she will be independent when she goes to work & gives up the vain pursuit of a retreating husband. At present she sits & mopes & takes snuff & talks of her troubles. Her whole bent is to go to Kaufman. Field & his wife lately entertained old Bro. McCulloch, who came to him penniless & with a sick wife who died there. Sad case again. He graduated at Princeton about 1835 - has long been a Baptist preacher - teaching a little school here & there, but so destitute of energy & management & so given to excess in eating & drinking (strong drink) that he has lived in the utmost poverty for years. His wife had known better things. Her release I trust was happy. Friday 30. I telegraphed to Jefferson to inquire about my injunction for news, consult law books & write a new petition in case the old one is lost. Geo. Lane happens to open my book & becomes so charmed that he must read it through. I called at his house last night. He was gone to prayer meeting. He after drinking so much had become a Christian! I put his girls to flight with papers in their hair. Staid till he returned & talked over matters as I seek to enjoin his client Down exr. from selling land for the benefit of Watt admr - my real antagonist. I read under disadvantage at night, but the book has a powerful effect on me. I see how others have trials so remarkably like my own. I am reminded again of the efficacy of earnest faithful prayer - & to this I resort late at night when long left alone. Saturday Dec. 31st 1870 Writing in Lane's office. Early in the morning I went to the depot & sent some letters home & wrote for my mail. Afternoon I got dispatches from Jefferson that my petition had not been presented to Judge Gray there - I sent the new one by Loughery about 4 p.m. & soon after went to the depot & got my mail including the old petition with Judge Williamson's endorsement declining to act on it. So the mist began to clear up. On going "home" I found that Field had come home. His mother-in-law, Mrs. Lewis, has got to reading the book. My throat is so bad that I ought to keep something to read to keep me from talking as I do too much. Revine about tomorrow I wish you a happy New Year.