25 October 1861

"Yankees' principal spite to South Carolina—fifteen war steamers have sailed, or steamed out against us. Hot work cut out for us whenever they elect to land.
They hate us, but they fear us, too. They do not move now until the force is immense—'overwhelming' is their word. Enormous preparations, cautious approach are the lessons we taught them at Manassas, Bethel, &c&c. McClellan is to come against us, front and rear.
And now we have many little wars beside the great one.
The Judge raging in tantrums. He speaks to me, but he has ceased to look at me. It is months since I have caught his eye. That means mischief!
The president writes, asking for particulars of that interview 13th July. There were present Col. John S. Preston, General Lee, General Cooper, Mr Chesnut, and the president. General Beauregard says he sent the president by his aide, Colonel Chesnut, a plan of battle which the president rejected.
Are we going to be like the Jews when Titus was thundering against their gates? Quarreling amongst ourselves makes me faint with fear."

August 1861, the toll of disease

"General Walker (Shot-Pouch) fears [Union General George B.] McClellan will take advantage of our army being prostrated by disease to attack us. One good of Bull Run: it has made them make haste cautiously.
In [General William H. C.] Whiting's command 400 out of 1700 are unfit for service."