January 11, 1862

2d Lieut. Elliot:
Diary:
     January 11-Saturday
     Weather this morning pleasant but very cold
     I went on shore this evening to go to Lowell but missed the cars and have come to the conclusion that I will stop over night in Boston.
     Went to the Hotel and stopped over night should liked to have gone up to Lowell but am disappointed. and do not believe I shall have another opportunity. but shall take one if possible.
     It begins to grow monotonous this staying on Shipboard and not being able to get home when almost in sight of it and going away from ones home and friends for so long a time and per-haps for ever
     Recieved orders to disembark for Fort Independence this morn one Comp. D. went down in the Saxon and they came back for another load but the order has been counter manded. and they are to come back. When we sail for Fortress Monroe.


Corpl. B. B. Smith:
Diary:
     Saturday 11
     We had a fine sail down the
     Harbour to Fort Independence
     Which is a first rate place.  we
     Had just got settled when we
     Got orders to pack up and go
     Back to the ship again some
     Long faces and some laughing.
     Got back about dark.  had [just?]
     An excursion or picnic.