Dr. Williams, from Social Circle, came this morning to trade me a
horse. He tells me the people below are freeing their servants and
allowing those to stay with them that will go on with their work and
obey as usual. What I shall do with mine is a question that troubles
me day and night. It is my last thought at night and the first in the
morning. I told them several days ago they were free to do as they
liked. But it is my duty to make some provisions for them. I thank God
that they are freed, and yet what can I do with them? They are old and
young, not profitable to hire. What provision can I make?
* * * * *
[The last two entries of the year 1865, however, supply the journal
with the much-to-be-desired happy ending]: