Downing’s Civil War Diary.–Alexander G. Downing.

Monday, 22d–It is quite (sic) still along the lines today and there is no news of importance. Some troops were sent out in the rear today, and our regiment received orders to be ready to march at any time. It is thought that Johnston is trying to break the siege by attempting to make a move from the Big Black river, and by Pemberton’s striking our lines at the same time and place, they hope to effect a union and escape. But General Grant is leaving nothing open. He has ordered the felling of large trees across the highways to prevent the moving of their artillery.