As I remember, Skip Earle was hoping to find the diary transcribed at Vicksburg. I failed to check this out on my last visit.
04 22 1863 [Wednesday]
Gen. Tracy’s (of Alabama) Brigade went down to relieve the 4th which returned to their old encampment. Aboput 11 p.m. were aroused by heavy firing in the direction of Vicksburg. Not sent to Warrenton this time. (195)
04 20 1863 [Monday]
Yankees shelling the city from a two gun battery they have recently erected opposite and a little below the city proper. For a day or two past, their shells have been thrown at Ogden’s (Capt. Fred N. Ogden, 8th La. HA) Battery, but failing to dismlount his gun, their fire today was directed on the city itself. Shells bursting constantly and in every direction but the people seem to be perfectly indifferent to them, and business is scarcely interrupted. Was told that during the bombardment the other night the ladies, instead of seeking safety in flight repaired to the most prominent positions about town and witnessed the magnificient scene, conducting themselves with the utmost coolness. (195)
04 19 1863 [Sunday]
Gen. Barton orders Gen. Reynolds to send a scout consisting of an officer and ten men down river, by land, to watch the movements of the enemy’s fleet-the proper detail accordingly made. Gen. Barton also ordered Gen. R. to sent the Pioneer party of this Brigade to cut a certain levee near Henderson’s Point, so as to flood the country towards Big Black as much as possible-in case any attempt should be made to flank us between Warrenton and Big Black-Good move- I have always been afraid of a flank movement at some point below Warrenton, and that a powerful effort should be made to cut our communication with Jackson- a step, which, if successful, would be fatal to this place. (195)
I take it is was the convention to call a Brigade commander General even though A. W. Reynolds, USMA 38, was then a Colonel. Much the same as calling ship COs, Captain irrespective of rank.