Washington, D. C, Jan. 31, 1862.
Dear Father, — I am lodging at a house on 14th St., just opposite Willard’s, and taking my meals at Willard’s. Perkins[1] is in the same room with me, and in case you come on here at any time and cannot get in at Willard’s, you will find it a good place to get a room at this house, Mrs. Dull’s. . . .
James arrived here this evening and says the horse is all right, with the exception of a cold which he caught coming on last night in an open car. I shall buy a rubber blanket for the animal, and think he will be all right then.
I started with Perkins to go out to camp this morning, but we broke down on the way out, and had to return, not getting back in time to start again to-day. It is just as well, as I shall have to go to-morrow morning with all my baggage, etc., and report to General Porter. I have had to wait for James, or else I should have gone immediately to camp.
The roads are in a most horrible condition, the mud being the worst I have ever seen. I shall be glad to reach camp and get settled down as I am tired of waiting here in Washington. If it had not been for Perkins I should have been very unpleasantly off indeed.
I saw Sowdon[2] a few minutes after my arrival here Thursday. He was just starting for home, not having obtained his commission.
I am perfectly well and in good health, and received your medicines safely. . . .
[1] William E. Perkins, of Harvard 1860, my classmate
[2] Arthur J. C. Sowdon, Harvard 1857.
