May 4th. 1865.
The work of preparation progresses, but oh, so slowly. But the work is gigantic. The dismantling of this mighty engine of war; of returning this “citizen army” to its legitimate and proper field of action, transforming it to an army of citizens, is an herculean task. Officers are busy arranging their affairs for the final settlement.
Everything that has passed into or through their hands must be accounted for. There is but one “loop hole” for the dishonest officer. “Lost in battle,” like charity, can be made to cover a “multitude of sins.”
Our pay rolls are completed and have been sent to the Paymaster. We draw clothing nearly every day, as the officers insist every man shall wear a new suit home. Guns, too, are being issued to every enlisted man, as we return our guns to the State Arsenal.
Governor Crapo and Senators Chandler and Howard are in Washington, and come out occasionally to see us.
Drill and dress parade—”fuss and feathers”—are the order of every day.
