1862 May 13 Clarke County, Va.

[from the diary of Matthella Page Harrison, as copied at a later date]

Tuesday, May 13th
A fitful day, bright morning and cloudy evening. Cousin Mary and I rode up to
Longwood.  While there the Briars girls walked over.  They are much depressed
about the times but I think God will protect the weak and helpless as we can
do nothing against the vile polluters of our land.  Cousin John came in from
dining at Pleasant Hill. There he heard that Norfolk was evacuated and the
Merrimac sunk.  There is another report that she has run up the James.  Beaure-
gard has defeated Halleck and Buel.  Thank God for that.  It is also reported
Jackson is at Strasburg on his return to Winchester.  Oh, that this bitter time
was past!

MSS 9759