January 9, 1861
I worry that our rifles are of inferior quality, and 
that the battery's ammunition is inadequate. Also that 
the signal system between our post and the city will 
not be equal.  There is also word that the Citadel 
cadets serving on Morris Island refused to obey any one 
but their own officers. I really do not know if I have 
the authority to whip them into line.

January 15, 1861
Our men are very ready to battle for the South, Old 
Mr. Lincoln will surely not leave our southern states
to go on our way. 

February 18, 1861
Mr. Jefferson Davis is inaugurated this day in Montgomery.
And on this same day my Regiment of Rifles was relieved 
from duty on Morris Island by newly enlisted six-month 
volunteers of the Confederate States Army under Colonel 
Maxcy Gregg.  I have been on constant duty since last 
December 27th.

February 25, 1861
Tonight we are to be honored by the city. We are to march
down the meeting street to Institute Hall where a ceremomy
is to take place.

February 26, 1861
Today we return to duty this time on James Island.

March 1, 1861 
Today The Confederate States government formally 
assumed the war powers from South Carolina.

March 5, 1861
Today Captain James Conner came to my headquarters 
at Secessionville on Sullivan's Island with the lastest 
newspaper.  Major Capers asked, "War or no war?"  

"War to the knife!" Conner said.  He said that from what 
Old Lincoln said - there won't be any peacefully withdraw 
from Charleston.  It is evident that independence will  
be secured with a struggle.