Washington Thursday Jan’y 22nd 1863
Another chilly, wet, misty, muddy day. It has passed off very quietly. But we were somewhat startled to learn tonight that Maj Genl Fitz John Porter was “cashiered and dismissed from the Service.” The verdict of the court is said to have been unanimous. McDowell will come out better. There is a rumor tonight that there has been another Battle near Fredericksburgh and that Genl Hooker is mortaly wounded, but I think it is only a rumor. The evening “Republican” contained it. Genl Burnsides address to the Army of the Potomac is in the “Star” this evening. My old friend John Merchant (& Lady) from Lyons called on me this morning. I showed them round the Pat office and this evening called and spent an hour or two with them at Mr Wm Ormes where they are stoping on E St. Mrs Merchant (who was Harriet Cole, daughter of Joseph Cole deced) is a cousin of Mrs Orme. Mr O is one of the wealthy men of Washington, has lived here near forty years. A girl who has been with the army and acted as female scout in “Seigels Corps” called here while we were at dinner to see Capt Johnson of the “Light Brigade” distinction. The Capt would not see her. She claims that he promised to marry her and seemed quite disconsolate. I did not see her. I weighed 142lb today. Am well and hearty as I ever was. For dinner today we had a nice meat pie, chickens & Beef, potatoes (Irish & sweet), turnip, cabbage and celery. For desert Rice pudding with a cup of tea. We dine at 5 o’clock. $30.00 pr month for room and Board, fire & light.