_Feb. 17._ He seemed very well, more contented than most of the
soldiers and talking more rationally and humanely than four fifths of
those with whom I have conversed. The troops will probably be here a
month or two at least, before any attempt is made in any direction.
The commanding generals have quarreled,[106] and one has gone North;
the troops are insufficient, the enemy on the alert and strongly
defended. The history of the Department so far might read: the forts
were taken, one thousand-odd children were taught to read, and one
negro regiment was formed.[107] Hunter seems to be a narrow,
self-willed man--to me--who don't know much about his affairs. At
first the soldiers were allowed to go wherever they pleased;
consequently they poured over our end of the island, confusion coming
with them. They cheated, they plundered, they threatened lives, they
stole boats, poultry, hogs, money, and other property, they paid for
dinners with worthless Richmond money, taking good bills in exchange.
They behaved like marauders in an enemy's country, and disgraced the
name of man, American, or soldier. The houses of one whole plantation
they burnt to the ground in the night. For three whole days and far
into the night I did nothing but chase soldiers and ride about to
protect the people. The consequence of it all is that the soldiers are
now tied up in camp pretty firmly.
The sales have been postponed to my and many persons' great
disappointment. And yet it does seem absurd, in view of the increasing
uncertainties of the moment here, to sell land. But I am so heartily
sick and weary of this system! What I shall do if the lands are not
sold within a month or two, I don't know.