December
12, 1864
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Fine
and clear with strong wind from northeast. At 7 a.m. all had a ration
of whiskey, and breakfast at 8 a.m. We were given more to eat but
not as much as we craved for sanitary causes. About 11 a.m. we slipped
anchor and [were] towed to the steamer "Varuna" near us when we
all embarked on board. Here we were placed on the second deck which
had been cleared of all obstructions to give us room. We were about
700 in number including a dozen or more officers who had also been
prisoners. The "Varuna" was a screw steamer, and the cabins were
built on deck which were occupied by our officers, and those belonging
to the vessel.
From the upper deck I made a careful
sketch of "Sumter" with the city of Charleston in the background.
Our monitor fleet lay off a mile or more toward the harbor entrance
behind us, and looked like dogs of war keeping guard on both Rebels
and us. We were formed in line every two hours during the day to
get something to eat, and the quantity increased in proportion in
every meal. Many were still unable to move about, and kept below
deck. I did not throw my clothing away until I had unwrapped all
the portions in which I had sewed my sketches and papers, but still
stood in Rebel shoe leather as my boots were as good as could be
desired through I had to confiscate some of the Union stores at
Savannah to pay for them. I did not see any of my former companions
in misery on board "the Varuna."
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December
13, 1864
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Fine
day, blowing heavy from eastward all day. We had a good breakfast
and whiskey rations as usual, and I spent most of the day watching
the Rebel works and finishing sketches. About 3 p.m. we were towed
alongside the Steamer "New York" and made fast, though the sea ran
very high. Capt. C[hisholm] came on board in quest of me, as his
wife saw my name on the register last night, and I was actually
lifted on board by him over the rails, and at once found myself
among friends who I had not before seen for twenty years! The surgeon
examined me, ordered brandy, and I spent several hours in conversation
until it was time to regain the "Varuna" as she was about to haul
off again. About sunset we "cast off" and resumed our former position
at anchor. After getting sundry stores and other necessaries from
the "New York." I was urged to stay with my friends until the quota
of prisoners had been exchanged, but it would take probably a week
or more, and I concluded to go home by the first chance. Before
leaving the "New York," I was given a pillow case half full of cake
& fruit, and one bottle of whiskey and two of brandy for use on
the home passage. These were furnished by my friend Captain Chisholm
of "The New York." |
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