By Elaine Heavey, Reader Service
The following excerpt is from the diary of Stephen Greenleaf Bulfinch.
Monday, May 9th, 1864
The great campaign has begun; & according to recent news, with a victory which promises still better success. God grant it!
Wednesday, May 18th 1864
The last two weeks have been ‘prodigal of blood.’ We have apparent advantage, but not decisive. Today there was a wicked hoax, a pretended proclamation of the President, ordering a fast, & calling for 400,000 more men.