THURSDAY 28
Another Spring day rather too warm in the sun. I took the shady side in coming from the office. One Hundred Guns were fired at noon on account of the result of the Peace Contn by order of Genl Scott. Interupted a good deal today in the office, could not do much business. Went on to 7th St after dinner and made some purchases, 2 looking glasses and Holly a Jacket. Have been at home this evening Drafting—a Condenser and also a Decalorator or water cooler for Steam Ships, plans of my own. I think I could get them Patented if I was out of the office, cannot while I am in. I have other improvements relating to the Steam Engine.
The three diary manuscript volumes, Washington during the Civil War: The Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft, 1861-1865, are available online at The Library of Congress.