April 15, 1862

Qr. Master Sergt. Howe:
Diary:
     April 15, 1862. The regiment embarked on board the ship North America and on the 16th we left with everybody else on the expedition.

2d Lieut. Elliot:
Diary:

     April 15-Tuesday

     This morning we got our final orders and at 10 O Clock are ready to go on board. We leave behind 2 men sick and 4 discharged to go home on undaunted.

     Commence going on board about noon Saxon put us on board North America Capt Collier and at 6 O Clock we are all on board find our Quarters are rather small and if we are to stop long think a great deal of sickness must come.

     Officers are Quartered in Steerage and fed by the Captain of Transport.

     I went on shore with orders for Col Dudley and returned by next boat.

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.