March 15, 1862

2d Lieut. Elliot:
Diary:
     March 15-Friday
     Relieved from Gaurd by Lieut Horn of Company A. at 10 O Clock. went down with my gaurd & fired their pieces at a target. two of twenty-two. hit the board the Best shot was from C.F.
     David Young gave me $5.00 to take care of for him. he is afraid of losing or having it stolen from him.
     Our Mortar fleet, or 20 vessels of is sailed from here this after noon, its destination has not been made known. It is sup-posed they have gone up the Mississippi. to some of their Forts if so and they succeed their will be a more room for some of us.
     Bill and I walked up part all of the encampments, we now have some. 9 Regiments of infantry, 4 Batterys of Artillery, and 8 companys of Cavalry. our Calvary may as well be infantry for all the Horses they have here. good frames but either have never been built upon or are all worn out.
     Weather to day has been very fine warm pleasant and as fine as one could ask for. No drills after 12 O Cock and no duty except getting ready for Lundry Inspection. Equipment and Quarters to be cleaned and policed the balance of the time is the mens own to do what they choose except leaving the island.


Corpl. B. B. Smith:
Diary:
     Saturday 15
     We had a terrific storm of rain
     And thunder Lightning and high
     Winds last night this morn it
     Was very cold a fire being needed
     For comfort.  there was 22 gun
     And mortar boats left here this
     Morning to join the fleet in the
     Mississippi i paid 1 Doll for tobacco
     I have seen a number of Roosters &
     Hens to day.