THE CIVIL WAR DIARY OF JOHN G. MORRISON 1861-1865

Mar. 14, Saturday. The gunboats "Pittsburg" and "Tyler"
went up the Yazoo this morning, the Tyler returning about
noon. At three P.M. the "Price" arrived down, bringing the
long-wished-for mail. Immediatly all hands were on the
"qui vive." After a delay of two hours ours came on board
and then what crowding there was around the bearer. At
last they were served out and, "Eureka," I received two
letters
[37] as my share. The papers willnot arrive until tomorrow. In
all corners of the ship could be seen the boys scanning
their letters with evident pleasure. I know I did, as I
had not heard from home in almost four weeks. Three of our
boats were detailed to ram guard all night. My old chum
John Ford received an appointment as master's mate this
evening and was ordered to report for duty on board the
"Benton," and so another mackeral chap departeth and George
Whitehouse reigns in is stead. As for Ford, may his shadow
never be less and may he live for a thousand years.
Mar. 15, Sunday. All hands were called about 5 A.M. Steam
was gotten up. We cast off our moorings and dropped down
abreast of the "Williams" Canal, which hasn't left fifteen
miles inland. In the meantime the gunboats "Mound City"
and "Cincinnati" entered the Yazoo, the former taking up
our position and the latter continuing onto Johnston's
Landing. At three bells we had divine service and muster.
Mar. 16, Monday. Rainy, misty, and uncomfortable.
Commenced coaling ship. Sherman's division of Grant's army
went up the Yazoo in transports. Today it is reported that
the "Carondelet" has went into Back River and got in behind
Vicksburg. Lights were stirring about the point all last
night. About 6 P.M. the rebs commenced firing over at the
canal and continued it at intervals of five minutes all
through the night. I think they are evacuting. John Ford
Joined the Benton today. This is my wife's birthday. I
wonder how she is spending it.
[38] Mar. 17, Tuesday. The weather being warm and clear, a
perfect contrast to yesterday, finished coaling ship. Drew
from the purser six yards of flannel at fifty-five cents
per yard and three yards of satinet at ninety per yard
Mar. 18, Wednesday. Very warm and cloudless. The mosquito
"Linden" came alongside and reported heavy [firing] at
Haines Bluff.Cannonading from Vicksburg at intrvals all
last night. I think they are evacuating.
Mar. 19, Thursday. Weather same as yesterday. At the
cannonading again last night, some of the shells bursting
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