TUESDAY, MAY 7, 1861.
It has been a pleasant fine day and much enjoyed by all after the long cold rain. 4000 soldiers from NJ are here now. Saw them all on parade on the Ave tonight. Went with wife to the Capitol, into both chambers. Had to pass eight sentries. Went into the East Capitol grounds where the Zuave Regt (Col Ellsworths) was on parade. They are a hard looking set (NY Fire man). Called in the evening on Col Allen of Boston at the National. Saw the Col of the NY 5th Regt there and other officers. Got the papers, a map of the City & Georgetown & a [badge?] for myself.
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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.
