February 17th [1863]. Mrs. Dameron and Mrs. White came to the gate late and found Mary Jane outside talking with other negroes, after having locked it, or pretending to do so, and bringing the key in to Mrs. Norton. This deception in a girl in whom she has had so much confidence made Mrs. Norton anxious and nervous all night. She got her money, pistols and other defences near her and kept the light burning. So many horrible things have happened that one can not be too careful, but I do not think Mary Jane meant to do more mischief than to leave the gate open so that she might have company within or go out at will. The deception was what was to have been expected of a negro. I do not feel fear for others now—I never did for myself—now that Banks is here; he does not throw people in prison without a trial on the testimony of a negro, as Butler did. Mrs. Dameron came in because a gentleman who had run the blockade had brought her news of Mr. D——. All well outside.
No fight at Port Hudson yet; Farragut and his flagship, the Hartford, still here. The town is filled with rumors and our friends who are always trooping here, keep us well plied with them. I do not record them all, because I forget them.
