January 12.—There are a large number of prisoners in camp near us. I saw some twenty-five hundred marched through the town. They tell the people that they will soon be here as conquerors.
All seem to have much more confidence in General Bragg than they had, and are much pleased at the prospect of affairs in Tennessee; for many thought it impossible for our small army to keep the enemy even at bay.
Captain Thatcher is now in the hospital. I went to see him. He related his story to me. I feel sorry for him, and sincerely trust that he will get justice. He was a member of the Missouri State Guard, and came out with General Price.
