January 27th 1861.  This day at 4 P.M. finds me seated in a split bottom chair 2 and one half miles south west of milford, and the third story of the widow Hedrick's domicile sitting by a hot stove, with a friendly cigar in my mouth; surrounded with old books, and cigar stubs, and tobacco spit, finds me contemplating what would be the best course for the north to pursue in the present crisis. 
March 2d 1861.  This day finds me in Greencastle Putnam co. Indiana sitting by my stand writing letters to my friends, and contemplating upon the course that I will pursue during my course in college.
 Greencastle Ind. April 7th 1861.
 This day finds me well and hearty - enjoying good health - but my mind is not here - only my body. During the last week I have been reading Humes History of England.  Tomorrow school commences again.
 Greencastle Ind. May 2nd 1861.
 Every thing is an uproar - the war commenced on the 11th ult. - the president of the U.S. called for 75000 volunteers, an recd them within 10 days.  And yesterday he has called
