1862 July 25 Staunton, Va.

[from the diary of Joseph Addison Waddell, civilian employee of the Quartermaster Dept.]

Friday, July 25.

A report this morning of a skirmish at Luray yesterday, 

in which we captured 25 prisoners, 10 wagons +c. But it 

is said that two Federal regiments have entered the Val

ley at Swift Run Gap to cut off the only regiment 

(cavalry) we have west of the Blue Ridge. Reported that 

troops from the South are arriving at Richmond. To all 

appearance Richmond is more closely besieged now than 

it was before the late battles. Va. Bank notes command a 

premium of 10 to 15 per cent our Confederate notes. Wood sel-

ling at seven dollars ($7) a load. The depreciation 

of the currency and scarcity of labor make prices very high.

[transcription by the Valley of the Shadow project]

MSS 38-258