by John Beauchamp Jones
AUGUST 14TH.—Hot and dry.
Rumors of a fight down the river yesterday, driving the enemy from Deep Bottom, and grounding of theRichmond. Guns were heard, and I suppose we made a demonstration both by land and water.
Cavalry (Hampton’s) still pass northward. They ride as if they grew to the horses. As they trot past, they can be seen cutting and dividing large round watermelons, and none are permitted to fall. Occasionally a staring negro in the street is astonished by the crushing of a rind on his head.
I never saw melons and other fruit so abundant; but they are held so high I cannot indulge.
Mr. Seddon draws 75 pounds rice per month, his family being fifty; and gets 12 pads cotton yarn from the State distribution. I shall get 10½ pounds rice, at 50 cents—retail price, $2; and perhaps 1 pad—5 pounds—yarn for $45; my family being seven.
