mander. We are effectually penned, like so many mules, the
first time this Division was ever guarded since we left Corinth. But the
7th Division never had a good name among sutlers and Secesh merchants,
and they have not improved here. They have not forgotten our
confinement on the sand bar here last spring, and are anxious to take
spite on the place. They patrol the town in large squads with pretending
officers, helping themselves to anything or everything they want and
march on, putting provost guard at defiance. I say "they" because I
always count myself out in such games.

Helena, Friday, Sept. 18. A very cold chilly night. We suffered severely
as we had no shelter save what we put up with ponchos. Had mounted drill
at 8 A. M. but as I felt quite unwell I did not go out. I have a heavy
fever. Went out on detail in the P. M. after wood, as there is none to
be had save what we haul about a mile. Infantry stole all of ours last
night to keep warm. Drew thirteen wedge tents after dark, which we put
up. I was fortunate to get in one of four.

Helena, Saturday, Sept. 19. Still very chilly, the wind being raw from
the river. Slept comfortable last night. The train which we were to
escort moved this morning with the cavalry, so the object of our
expedition is abandoned and we are lying here waiting orders. Mail
arrived at tatoo. I received one enclosed in E. W. E.'s but none from
home. It has been four weeks since the last I received from home. I am
very uneasy. I am afraid all is not well.

Helena, Sunday, Sept. 20. A fine day but cold night. Felt unwell and sad
all day. Wrote a letter home but received none. Evie is also unwell.
"Mars" arrived with the 9th Wisconsin which disembarked here. The "Thos.
E. Tutt" with the 4th Illinois Cavalry passed by to Vicksburg. Had
inspection at 9 A. M. Most of the boys were anxious to return to our
comfortable quarters at Vicksburg rather than stay in this deserted
place.

Helena, Monday, Sept. 21. Harnessed up my team this morning instead of
wheel team on five caisson. The first time I ever drove on the wheel,
but got along very well. I killed about two hours. Went on guard as soon
as I returned. Felt some better, but very sore. Times very dull and
passes away slow. Nothing to read whatever, not even a "Yellow Cover",
which is very plenty and juicy.

Helena, Tuesday, Sept. 22. Warm day. Drill as usual at 8 A. M. Watered
as soon as we returned. We have to go a mile in col