1862 September 5 Clarke County, Va.

[from the diary of Matthella Page Harrison as transcribed at a somewhat later date]

Friday, September 5

Today our army entered Maryland. Our war is now changed from the defensive to offensive.  My heart quakes in fear of the future.  Nat Burwell died today.  Poor fellow, he had looked forward to this day with bright hopes and anticipations.  The President's message is admirable.  He speaks first of the bravery and unfaltering courage our troops have shown, their gallantry finding few parallels in ancient or modern history, of the perfidy of the enemy, the malignity they have displayed, of their brutal acts.  He mourns the diabolical warfare which our enemies are forcing upon us, and threatens them an exemplary justice to be meted out from the hands in power, but scorns the idea of our noble defenders staining their patriot hands or hearts with retaliation on defenceless women and unarmed men. He lays down means for the disposal of inefficient officers without disgrace of courtmartial.  The forgery of our treasury notes.  Nat Burwell died today at Aldie from wounds received at the battle of Manassas.

MSS 9759