(excerpts)
MACON, Sept. 4th, 1864.
” . . . I have no news to give you and must confess that things just at present look rather blue. The intelligence that comes from the front is all confused. We know that Hardee attacked the enemy and with his one corps held his position till night, when he was flanked and driven back four miles… Hood, with the rest of the army, is in Atlanta; the army thus being cut right in two. Reports came yesterday and to-day that Atlanta has been evacuated. I have heard nothing from Brother, but suppose from that fact that he is all well. Every face looks anxiously expectant and we can only hope for the best. Before this reaches you it will be decided, I suppose.
“Genl. Johnston received a very flattering letter from the citizens of Macon not long ago, offering him the house, in which we now are, for as long a period as he desires it. The old General was very much gratified at the compliment, but of course signified his refusal.”