1862 January 23

[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding, Co. F, 25th Massachusetts, currently detailed to the Commissary Dept. on the steamer Admiral]

Windy and rainy, blowing a
gale. another vessel drifted
against us and broke our windlass that
holds the anchor. The officers got up
a charade this evening, and got it about
half through, when the mate came up
saying he wanted the men sent into
quarters as the ship is in danger of going
ashore so the charade was stopped. We
are in a perilous condition, but I feel
calm and trust in my Fathers arm
which I feel is around me as well on
sea as land. We are also all out of water
except what little is made from the steam
boiler. O how I long for a glass of pure
and cool water from the old well at home
and as I think of the dear friends who
are anxiously thinking of me far way in
unknown dangers, I feel my heart go out
in sorrow and sympathy for them. O Father
comfort their hearts and fill them with
peace and pour out
thy spirit upon them
for Christs sake.

MSS 11293