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

intruders. None of their shots done any damage, as they shot
too high. We then went back up river about two miles and
made fast. They had also about 10 boats lying under the guns
of the fort. Nothing was done the remainder of the day and I
turned in until 12 A.M., at which time I had a watch.
Monday, April 14th. Six mortars were placed in position this
morning. A flash and a roar and our first instalment of our
national debt was being paid. The firing was kept up through
[101]the day and at short intervals through the night. Once in a
while they returned the fire, making good line shots, but
none of them took effect.
Tuesday, April 15th. The bombardment is still going on, but
with what effect we could not tell. I heard that this fort
mounted thirty-eight guns, six of them 120 pounders -- so
says a deserter from it.
Wednesday, April 16th. Rainy and cold. Nothing going on.
Thursday, April 17th. Gen'l Pope and the whole army has left
here for the Tennessee river to reinforce Grant in
expectation of the fight at Corinth.
Friday, April 18th. Nothing going on. I am sick with the
ague. Feel bad. Sleep on our arms every night in
expectation of an attack from their fleet.
Saturday, April 20. Easter Sunday morning. No eggs around
but a good supply of "shell." Received a draft of thirty men
from Cairo. The old messes were all broken up and
reconstructed. I was placed in 7 mess, of which I am now
cook. Weather rainy and cold. Fell sick, got a sore mouth
to boot. Turned in early.
Monday, April 21st. Nothing going on of any importance.
[102]Tuesday, April 22nd. Nothing of any importance occurred
today except the arrival and reading of the following
significant document:
Copy
Navy Department
April 12th, 1862
Sir,
The department desires you to convey to Commander Henry Walke
and the officers and men of the "Carondelet," also to
Acting First Master Hoel of the "Cincinatti" who
volunteered for the occasion, its thanks for the gallant
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