[Diary] February 2.
Mr. Philbrick is so angry at the stoppage of the sales of lands. He wants his now and he is going to buy largely, saying that it is to prevent the lands falling into the hands of those who will take advantage of the people. He says he will sell again to the people as soon as he finds it for their interest. He says he will sell at cost. I believe be is going to petition that the Island of St. Helena be sold at once, and he wants all the superintendents to sign.
The negro companies under Higginson have fought well in Florida — four wounded. Captain Clifton killed. The soldiers — white ones — set fire to St. Mary’s. Three colored men were taken prisoners, and Higginson says if the rebels hang them he will hang two whites for every one of them.
