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Whenever we are put on
boats a guard is always placed so as to keep the men on, but as
the boat was lying close to the shore the boys would jump off
despite all the guards could do. In cases of that kind guards
are not overly attentive, and do not care whether the boys get
off or not.
On the evening of the 16th, and while we were lying
at the landing awaiting orders, the levee was cut and the water
of the raging Mississippi was turned into Lake Providence. When
it was known it was the intention to do so, a lot of the boys
volunteered, and it was but a short time before the water made
its appearance on the other side, all being anxious to see it
done before we left. Two trenches were dug about thirty feet
apart, leaving the water to wash out the space between. And against
morning all was clear, and the water gushing through at a furious
rate, putting one in mind of the dams in the Muskingum in time
of high water. By this time, I expect some of the old secesh
back in the country are wondering what's up, and are beginning
to skedaddle.
We had remained on the boat all that day, and until
about ten o'clock the next, when orders came for us to go into
camp above Providence, keeping all the Division together. The
Gladiator having the least on, and being already fired up, General
Logan went aboard and had her cruise along up the shore until
a suitable camping ground could be found, the other boats following
shortly after. All was unloaded, our new camp cleaned off, and
the tents up before dark. We are now about five miles above Providence,
in a corn field, and but a short distance from the river, affording
us a good view of all the boats passing up and down.
Rumors are prevalent that our Division will go to
reinforce Rosecrans, should it prove true that the rebels are
reinforcing Johnston from Vicksburg. And we are all anxious that
it may be so, for we are getting tired of this country; it is
a little too hot for comfort, and then the gallinippers! Oh!
dear, they are enough to torment any one to death. They are beginning
to let us know they are about, by buzzing around and occasionally
taking a fellow a dip along side the lug, and of course always
leaving their mark. They are a different and much larger species
than you have in the North.
The Yazoo Pass was undoubtedly the place we were
destined for, and there has certainly something of importance
turned up which prevented our going, but I do not believe we will
remain here long. I think we will either go back to Tennessee,
or go down in front of Vicksburg. I hope it will be the former,
for then we will stand a chance of coming in contact with Ohio
regiments in which there are companies from old Morgan.
In this camp we are not at a loss for water, as we
can dig down only three feet and get a supply of good, clear water,
right at home. Rails are also plenty, making first rate fire
wood.
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