, etc. Country very thinly settled and poor land covered
with pine shrubs. Tunnel Hill, a small town totally deserted in a
mountain gorge, could be seen, Johnston's winter quarters. Passed
through a tunnel three-quarters of a mile long here, nearly suffocating
us with fire and smoke. Dalton, next important place, found deserted and
crumbling to ruins. Looks old, no new buildings. Disappointed at its
appearance. Resaca on Oostanaula River, the strongest fortified position
on the line, all cut up in rifle pits and forts, and large enclosure of
graves tells of the fearful struggle it required to take it. The
railroad bridge was a curiosity, made of round timber without bolt and
rod, all wood. Calhoun we reached 4 P. M., the prettiest place on the
line, neat houses, pretty yards and inhabited. At the tank we were met
by battalion of secesh ladies with blackberries, huckle-berries, pies,
milk, etc. to sell. Adairsville next station. A few houses. Women
cheered us and boys returned a hearty response. Wheat and oats growing
all along the road mostly harvested, but poor crop. Have seen more small
grain to-day than I have since I left Wisconsin. Mostly poor people live
here. Reached Kingston by dark. Went to the depot 11 P. M., and had to
unload the horses and water them.

Kingston, Friday, July 1. Unloaded leisurely in forenoon. Went out a
mile to graze horses. Headquarters arrived 2 P. M. and ordered us into
camp. Harnessed up. Camped on the bank of Etowah River, a ridiculously
small creek to be called a river. Received a portion of our back mail. I
only received one. This was once a pretty station but now deserted.
Strongly fortified position. Garrisoned by 3rd Cavalry Division. Expect
to be relieved by our Division. Did not get around to write home to-day.
Bathed in river at night. Caught in a terrible rain. Soaked to the skin.

Kingston, Saturday, July 2. Rained very heavy all night and nearly all
day. Dried my clothes and my knapsack, and commenced writing a letter.
Finished by night. Three regiments, 2nd Brigade, left last night, back
to Calhoun and Macon to guard railroad. Two regiments of 3rd Brigade,
left this afternoon, to be stationed on the Rome railroad, eighteen
miles long. This infantry is going to guard road. Rumor says artillery
goes to this point. A long train of wounded from the front, among whom
was A. Silsby shot in arm and hip severely. Is full of pluck. Was with
him a long time. No letters by mail for