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

September 21, Saturday. Felt bad this morning. Went on
guard, nevertheless third relief. Rained all day steady.
Got well soaked, which made me feel miserable. Came off at 9
P.M. Raining hard. Determined not to turn out at 1 A.M. in
the morning.
September 22nd, Sunday. Did not turn out at 1 A.M., as said.
Was to be reported to the colonel. Thought better of it and
he did not do it. paraded at 9 A.M. Turned in until about
two. Felt kind of sick all day. The relics of the ague is
in my bones yet. Dress parade and divine service at 5 P.M.
September 23rd, Monday. Did not sleep well last night. Had
a grand review before Gen'l McClellan, Prince de Joinville,
Duc de Chartreux, and Count de Paris, who will be king of
France in case Louis Nap. should die. The whole division was
[26] out under the personal command of Gen'l McDowell, including
two batteries of artillery and one single company of cavalry.
Our regiment marched past in fine style. Got a little
liquour this evening. Made up a dose for my illness, which I
hope will cure me.
September 24th, Tuesday. Nothing of any importance occurred
today. Went through the usual routine of camp life.
Received a letter from home in answer to the one in which I
sent the money. It arrived safe. She must have wanted it,
as she has had no money from the committee in about four
weeks.
September 25th, Wednesday. Nothing today except a little
bean pole drill, as the boys call it, to learn them to keep
their distances. A queer idea, I think, like a boy learning
to swim with floats. Had orders to be in readiness to march
at a moment's notice, as the enemy was advancing. They have
been advancing often but they never advance. I will never
believe it again until I see them this side of Ball's
crossroads.
Friday, Sept. 27th. Detailed for fatigue duty to report at
the Arlington House. Reported but did not go on account of
the rain. Miserable day. Read all day. Some of Bulmer's
work, very misterious indeed. It cleared off about 5 P.M.
Went on dress parade. Had only got there when down it came
again. Turned in at 9 P.M.
Saturday, Sept. 28th. Turned out at 5 A.M. at our usual
morning parade. Was told to prepare for brigade inspection.
Was all ready at the appointed time (10 A.M.). Was
inspected individually by Gen'l McDowell. He was very
minute. Said I should have my breast plate on in line with
the buttons of my jacket. Expressed himself well pleased
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