14 Dec.
Mr Grimball paid us a visit having a furlough from his company, he had a bad cold, and during his stay it was very cold he returned to Charleston and Military life. I think rather pleased with the fact that he, too, is doing what he can to help.—
Things get on here very much as usual. Just now Elizabeth has given a 2 weeks holiday to her School, grateful to herself, and very joyful to Harry. Miss Legg called to take Elizabeth for an excursion to the Iron Mills; Miss Palmer, the sister of the young man Clemy was engaged to, was with her on a visit, and her Grand Mother Kenedy’s carriage, a most tumbled up concern, the drive was to the Rolling Mills. The iron of this district is very fine, and they saw the process of preparing the Iron, and brought home some specimens. The ride was a pleasant one, and as they carried a lunch, E. returned home very much pleased.—A little joy.—Miss Palmer is not in black, there is a large family & the father said he could not afford to put them all in mourning.
We have accounts of families wandering round from the threatened cities of Fredericksburg and Fort Royal in Virginia finding refuge in Cabins by the wayside. We have the comfort of a home and ought to be thankful.—