We have had to move, and thus lost our cave. The owner of
the house suddenly returned and notified us that he intended to bring his
family back; didn't think there'd be any siege. The cost of the cave could go
for the rent. That means he has got tired of the Confederacy and means to stay
here and thus get out of it. This house was the only one to be had. It was
built by ex-Senator G–––, and is so large our tiny household is lost in it. We
only use the lower floor. The bell is often rung by persons who take it for a
hotel and come beseeching food at any price. To-day one came who would not be
denied. “We do not keep a hotel, but would willingly feed hungry soldiers if we
had the food.” “I have been traveling all night and am starving; will pay any
price for just bread.” I went to the dining-room and found some biscuits, and
set out two, with a large piece of corn-bread, a small piece of bacon, some
nice sirup, and a pitcher of water. I locked the door of the safe and left him
to enjoy his lunch. After he left I found he had broken open the safe and taken
the remaining biscuits.
SOURCE: George W. Cable, “A Woman's Diary Of The Siege Of
Vicksburg”, The Century Illustrated Monthly Magazine, Vol. XXX, No.
5, September 1885, p. 768
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