Washington Tuesday Jan’y 6th 1863
The weather has been delightfuly warm, dry & pleasant every day since the New Year came in until today. It has rained all the afternoon and I got some wet in comeing from the office without my umbrella. That article is a servant that is frequently absent when most wanted, a fair type of the servants obtained at the “Contraband Depot” in this City, only the advantage is decidedly on the side of the umbrella for that is entirely subject to your will and pleasure, and will go if you carry it, and at least you cannot blame it for not being where you want it to be and is always ready to do its duty. Not so the “Contraband.” He will go if you drive him, but is never quite ready or willing when there is work to do. His whole idea of Freedom is, “Nothing to do and plenty to eat.” Union faces look brighter today. There is now no doubt of our great success in Tennessee & at Vicksburgh. “All hail the Stars and Stripes.” It is a pity that the Rebel Army now in V.A. was not on the Miss. or out of the atmosphere of Washington where the (Quid nuncs) of the Govt could not assume to control our Armies which contend with it. All our Generals are successful except those on the Potomac. Got letter from home today. “Value” has been rcd all Safe, contents duly appreciated, ought to have sent “Willie” a Book. Must send him one by mail. Willie must not be neglected. He will make a man yet if he is rightly trained up.