The "quarters" were about three hundred yards from the dwelling of the overseer.
The hands were occupied in clearing land and burning brush, and in constructing their houses, through the winter.

In March we commenced ploughing: and on the first of April began planting seed for cotton.

The hoeing season commenced about the last of May.

At the earliest dawn of day, and frequently before that time, the laborers were roused from their sleep by the blowing of the horn.

It was blown by the headman of the gang who led the rest in the work and acted under my direction, as my assistant.
Previous to the blowing of the horn the hands generally rose and eat what was called the "morning's bit," consisting of ham and bread.