January 1st 1865
“New Years” has passed off very pleasantly. There has been a great deal of “Calling” and the City has been full of people. There was a great rush at the Presidents House. I went the “rounds” calling upon most of the Heads of Departments. I noticed a great contrast betwen this “New Years” and any previous one for the past three years, four years ago there was a solemn stillness, a burthensome weight hanging upon the minds of all, a fearful forboding of Evil, a dread of the future. It was but little better three years or two years ago, doubt and anxiety for the future and horror and dismay at the terrible war oppressed all. Even one year ago we could scarcely see any light. Today all are in good spirits, but still there is many a tear and many a sigh for the lost ones.