Well, I've been back at my plantation (Briarfield) for nearly 8 days.  How
beautiful and peaceful it is here!  The weather is quite nice, considering it
is February in Mississippi.  Varina looks lovelier than ever.  I have enjoyed
just talking to her as we work on our garden.  I see the truth in her eyes
and hear it in her voice.

I wonder how things are in Washington.  Lincoln takes office in a month.  Now
there are 9 states that have seceded.  Wow!  

As each day passes, I feel more content with my decision to join the
secession and remain loyal to my home state of Mississippi.  I sincerely hope
that we, here in the seceded states, can join together, and achieve our
independence.  It is our God given right to be independent.  I am willing to
fight, even if it costs me my life, for my state and the Southern cause.