Washington Thursday Jan’y 15th 1863
I have reason to be thankful that my health is so good. Today I have felt extremely well and have been quite busy all day although I have not done much on the “Board.” Josephine (Maj E Ps wife) and Mrs H P Knowles called upon me at my office about noon and I spent a couple of hours with them showing them round the Pat office, and Dead Letter office. We also visited Mr McGuires Picture Gallery on E st. The ladies were much pleased with all they saw. I promised to go out to Fort Gaines tomorrow and return their “Call.” I [c]onfess that I have not been very neighborly with my Lyons Friends of the 138th, never having been out to Fort Gaines. But it is difficult getting there on foot after leaving the cars & “Bus.” Spent an hour with Chas & Sallie. The Ascension Hospital is broken up. The Surgeon Genl told Chas that he could have his choice of all the Hospitals in the District, and be transfered to which he chose. He decides tomorrow. The baby is growing finely on the bottle. She has never nursed it much. Called at Doct Munsons and staid till past 9. Mr & Mrs White there from Albany, also Mr & Mrs Whitney from Rochester. Heard something from Mis Read (in a very sly way) of a secret “League” of Loyal Gentlemen now forming in the City to act in support of the Govt &c. I must enquire and find out all about it if I can and perhaps join it. I was a Minuet Man two years ago when we were in great Peril. I will be one now if necessary. No very bad news, a gun Boat and some Transports taken by the Rebels on the Cumberland River. The Army of the Potomac, it is reported, is moving. Called upon Maj Austin, Pay Master from Auburn. Saw Mr Meeker (his Clerk) and Mrs Meeker, also from Auburn NY.