1 January 1861
The year began with clouds & rain. I went out with Josey to Drive as Lucius was sent to the Depot expecting Mr Hayward & visited Mrs Wayne, Papa & Mrs Manigault, Papa out, Mrs Wayne preparing for a grand party, which must have disapointed her, as it rained all the evening, Sent in our excuses, the boys had already done so. Charlotte was very busy putting up curtains and looking dirty & ragged, it was evident she felt no superstition about the first of the year being a pattern for all the rest. She is getting so set looking that it spoils her appearance. I feel very dull about the boys, they may all be called out to fight. John has offered his services to the Governor for active duty, & all the others are in Military companies and of course will have to be exposed. I sent them down a New Year wish, & if we never meet again in this world, my last greeting to them was a sincere prayer for their salvation. Lewis went off today to Town.