July 7. As we did not move to-day, we spent the day
amongst the prisoners who are by far the most numerous. Never has such
lenity been shown to prisoners of war before. They are allowed to go
anywhere within the lines and guard, their officers riding out in full
regimentals, sash and swords, with orderlies. And groups of both parties
are seen on every hand talking the matter over in a friendly way. A much
better effect will result from this than if they were strict and kept
them under guard. It opens their eyes to facts that before they were
ignorant of, and many will be induced never again to raise arms against
the stars and stripes. A brisk trade is going on. They sell their scrip
for ten cents on the dollar. Canteens traded, coffee etc. given them
freely. The best good feelings prevail. All are anxious to go home,
where they will stay if possible.

Vicksburg, Wednesday, July 8. No immediate prospect of moving. Boys busy
putting up tents, shades, etc. I strolled among the Alabams on the
right. Got a "fly" fixed for which we had use. Found some of the
greenest specimens of humanity I think, in the universe, their ignorance
being little less than that of the slave they despise, with as imperfect
a dialect. They "reckoned as how you 'uns all would be a heap wus to we
'uns all". They wished they could come back to the old Union again.

Vicksburg, Thursday, July 9. The work of paroling the prisoners goes on
as fast as possible. Many of the Western rebs crossed the river to-day,
and many of the Mississippi and Louisiana are ready to leave in the
morning. Their officers have given up the hope of taking them into
parole camp. They all go to their homes, and will carry discontent and
repentance to many a hearthstone. Wells were sunk to-day in the hollow,
giving cool water, but not very pure. Rebs had been here for a year
drinking brackish water, everyone is that lazy.

Vicksburg, Friday, July 10. Everybody busy preparing permanent quarters.
Tarpaulins spread over picket rope. Water the horses in the river twice
a day, passing through the center of Vicksburg. It is planted on very
rough ground, very scattering with the exception of the first streets.
Notwithstanding the lay of the country, it is made beautiful by
shrubbery and shade trees which are liberally and beautifully planted
along the street.

[Sidenote: 1863 Drinking in Camp]

Vicksburg, Saturday, July 11. Very warm and dull. Officers all drunk. In
the eve