May, Sunday 1, 1864
I slept very late this morning. Tate and Helen ready to start to Church when I went in the Parlor—Uncle Elam went with them. Father, Mary, Robert and I were left at home. Mr. Hildebrand and Mr. Madden spent the morning with us—they had no late news—neither did we hear any from the girls. Five Yankees found where John, William, Ben & David Hildebrand and Ben Henderson were hid on Day’s creek, about a mile from here and surprised them, although they were fast asleep, they made their escape. The Yanks fired twice only, our little band were not armed armed for a fight, therefore beat a hasty retreat. The Yanks then came to old Mr. Hildebrand’s, did not stay long, we saw them pass on the ridge returning to Memphis.
Nannie and Joanna have not returned yet, cannot imagine what keeps them. The Yanks sent out a heavy force after Forrest yesterday. God bless our little band, and crown them with victory—guide my Bro, and keep him safe through all danger—Came to my room early—Father retired so early—We think the Yankees are at Mr. Hildebrand’s now, so much noise, and two guns fired. God bless my dear Father, and protect him from the Yankees.