1862 December 8 Staunton, Va.

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

Monday night, Dec. 8, 1862.

Weather very cold since Friday, on which day we had a snow storm. Some persons hauling ice to-day — much thicker than any I have seen for three years. All quiet at Fredericksburg — persons connected with the army, just from that place, say that Gen. Lee does not anticipate a battle there. He thinks the enemy will not attempt to cross the river. A small force of Yankees visited Winchester last week, going off in a few hours, and our cavalry are again picketing below Charlestown, Lincoln message to Congress is much talked about — It is in every respect a contemptible document. Mary Tate Graham goes to Lexington in the morning. Jinny accompanying her. They have gone to the Hotel to sleep.

[transcript by the Valley of the Shadow project]

MSS 38-258