Thursday, March 15, 2012

1862 March 16 Staunton, Va.

[from the diary of Joseph A. Waddell, editor of the Staunton Spectator]

Sunday night, March 16, 1862.

We were home from Church to-night, cast down,
having heard a report brought by the cars that the
Federalists had surrounded 6000 of our troops at
Newbern, N. C. Last night we heard that the town
had been shelled by the army — now it is said they
have possession of it. The whole day has been one of
suspense and anxiety to us. Our community begins
to anticipate the appearance of the enemy here in
the course of a few weeks, and it is a matter of frequent
conversation as to whether the del>friends women and chil-
dren shall stay or fly, and if the latter where they
shall go. Jackson's army, when last heard from, was at
Woodstock. A portion of the rolling- stock of the Mana-
ssas Railroad arrived yesterday and last night, over the
turnpike. Our militia did not get off yesterday, but
expect to start to- morrow. The times are very dark.
The only cheering thought is that God still lives &
reighreigns. Oh for pardon of sin, for deliverance
from it, and for a strong faith! Hebrews IV-16.
An intelligence from the battle in Arkansas.

[transcription by the Valley of the Shadow project]

MSS 38-258

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