23 July 1861

Tuesday, 23d Went over on the east prairie then to Mascoutah. Spent the eve at Mr. Larkwood's. Received a report of the Battle of Manassas Junction that took place on Saturday the 20th.

22 July 1861

Monday, 22nd Pleasant. Went to Cox's Ferry then returned. Stopped at J. Rayhill's. Went in the eve to L. Rayhill's. Stopped at L. Rayhill's.

21 July 1861

Sunday, 21st Pleasant. went to Church to day and returned to J. Rayhill's- Took dinner, stopped all night. Rained to night.

20 July 1861

July, Saturday, 20th 1861 Pleasant. went to J. Rayhill's then to C. Rayhill's. Stopped all night.

19 July 1861

Friday, 19th Went to Mascoutah then to Fayetteville on recruiting expedition, then through the prairie. Stopped at J. Rayhill's then to Mst. Stopped at Fike House all night.

18 July 1861

Thursday, 18th Pleasant. Went from Cairo to Lebanon then to Summerfield, returned, then to L. Padfield's. Staid all night.

17 July 1861

Wednesday, 17th Pleasant. To day I feel much better than I have formerly. Made arrangements to start home recruiting. Saw Mr. Seawell. Heard that the Secessionists are doing up bad work at Nashville. Bought a sword, belt, and cap.

This is presumed to be the sword that he purchased on July 17th 1861.  It is still in the possession of his descendants. (Deiss)

The sword was manufactured, or contracted and re-sold, by W. H. Horstmann of Philadelphia. 
Loren probably purchased it from a military goods purveyor in Cairo. (Deiss)

16 July 1861

Tuesday, 16th Pleasant. E.I.R.B. This morn the Col. took 50 men and went up the river. I went to Birds Point. Saw Col. Dougherty and several other acquaintances. The Col. took one prisoner.

Registry of Letters received 1861

July 16, Wm. Britt, Mascoutah, Ills, sent July 13

July 16, Wm. Howland, Mascoutah, Ills., sent July 13

July 16, H. E. & Louisa Webb, Roscoe, Minn, sent July 11