MONDAY, DECEMBER 30, 1861.
We have had no winter weather as yet. No snow at all to lay on the ground. Today has been cool and fine. Troops are moveing some across the River, and we may soon expect lively times. I have been in the office as usual today. Col Merrick is improving, has been out doors today. I was on the Ave this evening at Willards, Browns & the National Hotels. Nothing new in particular. At almost every corner on the Ave the mounted guard (Cavalry) stand as still & immovable as the Bronze statue on Lafayette Square. Their business is (principaly) to prevent rapid riding & Driving.
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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.
