Before daylight
came where I now am. Saw alligators — small ones This out in the woods life is
doing me good. Main road three miles away, but there are paths running
everywhere. Saw a white man an hour ago. Think he was a skulker hiding to keep
out of the army, but afraid to hail him. Many of these stay in the woods day
times, and at night go to their homes, getting food Am now away quite a
distance from any habitation, and am afraid those who will look for me cannot
find me. Occasionally hear shots fired; this is a dangerous locality. Have now
been out four days and fared splendidly. Have hurt one of my ankles getting
through the brush; sort of sprain, and difficult to travel at all. No water
near by and must move as soon as possible. Wild hogs roam around through the
woods, and can run like a deer. Palm leaves grow in great abundance, and are
handsome to look at. Some of them very large. Occasionally see lizards and
other reptiles, and am afraid of them. If I was a good traveler I could get
along through the country and possibly to our lines. Must wander around and do
the best I can however. Am armed with my good stout cane and the knife given me
by the negro; have also some matches, but dare not make a fire lest it attract
attention. Nights have to get up occasionally and stamp around to get warm.
Clear, cool nights and pleasant. Most too light, however, for me to travel. The
remnants of yesterday's food, have just eaten Will now go off in an easterly
direction in hopes of seeing the messenger.
SOURCE: John L. Ransom, Andersonville Diary, p.
125
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