April 8. — To-day there was a review of the Second, Third, Fifth, and Sixth Corps by the President. It was one of the finest spectacles I have ever seen. The different corps arranged in line, with their flags of all colors, contrasting well with the dark blue of the uniforms, was a very pretty sight. As they passed in review they would come to the shoulder, and then double-quick as soon as past the President. I went over in the evening to see Starr,[1] and had a very pleasant time. Received a letter from Hannah full of interesting items. Mounted guard this evening quite successfully, and I believe made no mistake. This is the third time that we have had brigade guard-mounting. Day very pleasant. Several ladies were at the review, and among others Mrs. Lincoln. The President’s son rode at the head of the reviewing column. It was quite exciting when riding through the lines, as we did, at a full gallop. There were several ditches in the way which we had to leap, and in trying to do so some were stuck in the mud, others thrown, etc. It was quite amusing for those who got through safely.
