Hot and dry.
Rumors of a fight
down the river yesterday, driving the enemy from Deep Bottom, and grounding of
the Richmond. Guns were heard, and I suppose we made a demonstration both by
land and water.
Cavalry (Hampton's)
still pass northward. They ride as if they grew to the horses.
As they trot past,
they can be seen cutting and dividing large round watermelons, and none are
permitted to fall. Occasionally a staring negro in the street is astonished by
the crushing of a rind on his head.
I never saw melons
and other fruit so abundant; but they are held so high I cannot indulge.
Mr. Seddon draws 75
pounds rice per month, his family being fifty; and gets 12 pads cotton yarn
from the State distribution. I shall get 104 pounds rice, at 50 cents—retail
price, $2; and perhaps 1 pad-5 pounds-yarn for $15; my family being seven.
