Following the American Civil War Sesquicentennial with day by day writings of the time, currently 1863.

Post image for Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft.

Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft.

January 26, 2013

Diary of US patent clerk Horatio Nelson Taft.

 

Washington Monday Jan’y 26th 1863

Well, Genl Burnside has resigned and “fighting Joe” Hooker is in command of the “Army of the Potomac,” and Genls Sumner & Franklin are relieved of their commands. What this last thing means remains to be seen, Court Martials possibly. I dread the effects which these movements may have upon the Army. Every Genl has his favorites and devoted friends who are always ready to Swear by him. Hooker is a gallant officer, he may be the Man for the place, we shall see soon. No other particular news today. Gold 150, the highest yet. The Banks of the Country are likely to defeat the measures for a niform U.S. Currency. Too many truckling M.C.s looking to a re-election, or interested in Banks at home. It would cut off their sale of exchange and then they could not “burst up” once in awhile and leave their worthless trash in the hands of the Laboring Classes. When will the people learn wisdom and proffit by experience. Little Kate Williams called on me today and staid an hour or two in my office after I had shown her through the Pat office. I called after dinner upon Judge Scott on NY Ave. Ex Gov Fairwell of Wis. was there. He is in the Pat O as Examiner, did not see Ex Gov Bashford, he being out. On my return called and spent the rest of the evening with Chas & Sallie, returned to my room after 10 o’clock. The weather is quite warm and I am writing at this time (near eleven o’clock P.M.) without fire, and am not uncomfortable. Weighed 142 lbs today on the Pat office Scales. Am in good health.

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