Nothing of any importance to note down. The officers come
over from Richmond every day or two, and make a showing of issuing clothing The
work goes on slowly, and it would seem that if clothing was ever needed and
ought to be issued, it is now; yet the officers seem to want to nurse the job
and make it last as long as possible. Many cruelties are practiced, principally
by the rebel sergeants. The lieutenant does not countenance much cruelty, still
he is very quick tempered, and when provoked is apt to do some very severe
things. The Yankees are a hard crowd to manage; will steal anything, no matter
what, regardless of consequences. Still I don't know as it is any wonder,
cooped up as they are in such a place, and called upon to endure such
privations. The death rate gradually increases from day to day. A little
Cincinnati soldier died to-day. Was captured same time as myself, and we had
messed together a number of times before I became identified with the “Astor
House Mess.” Was in very poor health when captured, but could never quite find
out what ailed him. I have many talks with the rebels, and am quite a
priveleged character. By so doing am able to do much for the boys inside, and
there are good boys in there, whom I would do as much for as myself.
SOURCE: John L. Ransom, Andersonville Diary, p.
18
No comments:
Post a Comment