1862 September 1 near New Bern, N.C.

[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding, Co. F 25th Massachusetts]

Monday
Sept 1. 1862

At the opening of a new year of my soldiers
experience I have resolved, with the help
of God, to try and do better than I have done, and
to strive to control my tongue and actions
more carefully than I have the past year
   this is a place of great temptation (being in
the army) but with the help of God it can be
resisted--It is quite warm to day, but there
is a nice breeze.  The Captain drilled us in
company drill this forenoon, for the first time
since the march to Trenton.  I have not felt
very well to-day, but better than when I first
got up this morning.  Read part of a book this fore
noon, entitled "Matrimonial Brokerage,"  Had bread
and tea for supper.  It rained to-day so we did
not have to go on battalion drill.  Commenced
a letter home this afternoon.  Have enjoyed the
day very well, Smith and Pollard went out
a pass, and got some corn and boiled.  I
ate one ear.  Have not played a game of any
kind to day.  God Dadmun to shave me this
morning.

MSS  11293