July 6th, 1865.—Something disagreeable happened today. The Riding class was to meet at Hattie’s and we were going around Lake Iamonia, and as the distance was longer than our rides usually are, we had to make an earlier start.
At four o’clock Cousin Lizzie and I were leaving the grove by the big front gate, which opens on the Thomasville road. “Rebel,” the pony I was riding, has an ugly trick of backing and kicking, if a noise alarms him, and just as we were riding through the gate Lieutenant Zachendorf and a squad of his men came riding past. Their accoutrements made a jingling noise, which offended “Rebel’s” ears and he immediately backed toward the soldiers, kicking with all his might, his heels fairly flying. I could do nothing with him; he paid no attention to either rein or whip and orders were of no avail. I was in despair. Lieutenant Zachendorf halted his squad and ordered me to “Stop that Devil.” I explained that I could not manage him and they rode away, after telling me if it ever happened again he would have me arrested and tried before his court. We went on to Captain Lester’s house, where we joined the party but I did not enjoy the afternoon. I think I shall have to stay at home hereafter.
