[from the diary of Eliza Oswald Hill, refugee from Wilmngton, N.C.]

Monday 30th  It is very cool & pleasant to day after the rain last night & the
ladies have availed themselves of the pleasant morning to return
visits–Eliza has gone too.  Mr. Fetter did not get off last night, he is to
leve in the Eleven OClock Hack.  He called just now to bid us goodbye–
I received letters this morning –one from Liz & one from Cousin Lord–Eliza
Eliza got one two from A.J. Miller & The news from Richmond still cheering.  Our troops
are carrying all before them–But I cannot hear what has happened of Tom or Mr
Mason–Kind Providence seems to be smiling on us again–& if God be for
us we need not fear what man can do with us–

Eliza:  her daughter
Liz: her daughter in law, widow of her deceased son William, and daughter of N.C. governor John Branch
Tom: her son with Burt’s Rifles, Co. K, 18th Mississippi
Mr. Mason: Eliza’s fiancee James M. Mason


MSS 6960