The President walked home with me from church (I was to dine
with Mrs. Davis). He walked so fast I had no breath to talk; so I was a good
listener for once. The truth is I am too much afraid of him to say very much in
his presence. We had such a nice dinner. After dinner Hood came for a ride with
the President.
Mr. Hunter, of Virginia, walked home with me. He made
himself utterly agreeable by dwelling on his friendship and admiration of my
husband. He said it was high time Mr. Davis should promote him, and that he had
told Mr. Davis his opinion on that subject to-day.
Tuesday, Barny Heyward went with me to the President's
reception, and from there to a ball at the McFarlands'. Breckinridge alone of
the generals went with us. The others went to a supper given by Mr. Clay, of
Alabama. I had a long talk with Mr. Ould, Mr. Benjamin, and Mr. Hunter. These
men speak out their thoughts plainly enough. What they said means “We are
rattling down hill, and nobody to put on the brakes.” I wore my black velvet,
diamonds, and point lace. They are borrowed for all “theatricals,” but I wear
them whenever they are at home.
SOURCE: Mary Boykin Chesnut, Edited by Isabella D. Martin
and Myrta Lockett Avary, A Diary From Dixie, p. 283-4
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