January 3rd, 1931:
So this morning I awoke from a dream that often haunted me. It was a dream of a girl who I began to grow favor to, Rachel. The dream revolved around her, and I always seemed to stumble with my words as I struggled to converse with the beauty that stood before me. The dream would soon be a nightmare as it would haunt me every day and night. I would occasionally meet Rachel in reality, but the toils on the farmland during this harsh winter often kept me preoccupied -- so it was a rare gift to see her occasionally. The county prisoners that were sent to aid me in work would do nothing but harshly vulgarize my love interest as I would speak of her. I cannot take it much more, as my heart will soon possess me to take action. I once had a family and a life of peace and happiness, but that was all taken away. My groaning heart appraises the thought of journeying to town and taking her hand in love. Is it not reasonable? What sane man would hide his feelings away as if they were for none to see?

January 7th, 1931:
Work in the farmland gets worse every day. The cold is depressing, and the livestock is in constant distress and lacking in intelligence. I fear that the fodder that is on reserve may have to be used soon. The crisp, cold air and the sight of the wonderful white Tennessee mountains always seem to cause me to reflect on Rachel's beauty and the joy of her presence. In fact, everything will cause me to reflect on her. Oh, why must I be in such torment and give in to my aching heart? What terrible predicament must I embrace next? The foul fellowship of the prisoners and the sheriff's deputy do nothing but cause me to yearn for better company.

January 13th, 1931:
The Lord has been good to me, and the wonders of His love is astounding to me. Even when I travel through the shadows of darkness; the valley of death, and the wickedness of men and the evil spirit of the beast come upon me, I will remain true to His word. I am at a loss today, as I awoke to find my livestock and my food reserves all stolen. I have close to nothing, but I will not let this temporary misfortune strike me too deeply.

January 14th, 1931:
Rachel approached my house today and spoke softly to me as I welcomed her company. To know that she was there with me was all the peace and happiness I could experience in life; all wrapped up into one. Her presence was like the loveliest of blossoms that would relieve the stress of winter and inform you of an early and wonderful spring. What a great feeling it was to have her with me. I spoke to her well and gave her proper respect that she deserved from me. My politeness and etiquette seemed reserved specifically for her. We bundled up to go for a short walk outside and greet a wondrous view of the mountains. On the peak of Ripshin we could see much. I knew that it was the perfect moment to tell her that I longed for her love, and my heart began to beat at an alarming pace. I took the perfectly timed opportunity and held her hand for a moment, "Being here with you on this mountain is all I've ever dreamed of. I am beyond captivated by you, and Lord have mercy on me, but I believe this is as close to heaven as I can get. My love for you seems to pain me each day. I am often left yearning just to be beside you. What can be done about this constant ache in my heart? My longing for your love has been growing strong as I have waited for this one moment to confess my feelings for you. What will you say to me?"