Tuesday, November 15, 1864

Moved out at daylight and arrived at Atlanta about nine Oclock A M. We stopped in the city until afternoon and then moved out on the Augusta Rail Road and camped on a elevation that overlooks the city. The city is fired in several places and about dark the Torch was set into the Business part. It was a grand sight from our camp to look down on the burning city. The night is dark and an occasional shell burst and scatters things around promiscuously. Some of our Boys was down and got some clotheing from the burning buildings. The entire city was destroyed but a few occupied houses. It reminds me of the destruction of the city of Babylon as spoken of in the Bible which was destroyed because of the wickedness of her people and that is the case with Atlanta. I feel Sorry for some of the people but a Soldier is not supposed to have any concience and must lay aside all scruples he may have. We drew some clothing and Rations and have orders to move in the morning. With all the excitement and attending to duty I did not get any Sleep.

1. Where did Miller's unit set up camp and why would they choose this position?

2. What did Miller and his fellow soldiers see and do that night?

3. What Bible story does Miller note? What comparison does he draw between the story and what was happening in Atlanta?

4. Miller notes that “a Soldier is not supposed to have any concience and must lay aside all scruples he may have.” Why do you think he wrote this statement? Why do you agree or disagree with Miller's statement?