[from the diary of William M. Blackford, bank officer and former diplomat with five sons in the Confederate Army]

Tuesday 30. Not a rumor of any kind from
the army–News from Kentucky recd says
it too probable that Buell has
gotten to Louisville which he is
fortifying strongly.  With the im-
mence force we have in Kentucky
one would think this ought to
have been prevented.  There seems to
be wanting enterprize among the
generals–Oh for one day[?] of Jackson
there.
This being last of the quarter, we
had the usual count.  It is always
a day of excitement and fatigue
all was found right–At  night
Charles & Sue came over, and by the
Orange train Lanty arrived.  He looks
remarkably well though weather bea
ten and roughened.  He has been de-
tained for duty in the office of the
Medical Director. I dont
like it much–but he requires some re-
laxation–Mary Gwatkin was
here–so that it was a family re-
union–It has been a long time since
three of the Boys were in the
home at once–Staige Davis was
also in here returning from his
trip to Tennessee–In the course
of the evening Drs. Minor, Latham
& Houston called–We lodged besides
the ordinary family no less than
eight–went to bed much fatigued.

MSS 4763