Washington, D.C.
February 26, 1865
 
A great letter written by an unknown person who experienced elite Washington political society during the waning days of the Civil War. 9 x 7 in. Three fold creases, else Fine. Complete with its original stamped envelope.
 
Writing to a close friend, Louie(?) is currently resting with a cold and headache so thus has time to write amidst a busy schedule. He mentions two women(possibly his wife and daughter) who have just gone to the Armory Square Hospital to read and write for wounded soldiers. He’s previously visited this hospital and wants to visit another one, Judiciary Square, but has been too busy since arriving on the night of February 16th., particularly with parties. The first mentioned is one given by Senator Sprague IV where he meets and converses with recently appointed Chief Justice Salmon P. Chase. The next event is a party given by Senator Edwin D. Morgan. Finally, he attends a reception held by First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln.
 
“Yesterday, for the fist time, I had the pleasure of going up to the White House, to one of Mrs. Lincoln's morning receptions, at which our noble president was present. I was much gratified at being presented to him, and receiving from him a warm grasp of the hand and when I looked up (he is about six feet, five inches tall) into his good honest face, I was more than ever impressed with his honesty of purpose, which has pervaded every act of his eventful reign, and which is so apparent in every feature. It was a very hard rain and still there was a great crowd there and with the full Marine Band playing in the East room and elegant dresses to look at, it was a very gay company…"
 
Towards the end of the letter, he expresses hope that his father can get time away from legal duties to attend Lincoln’s upcoming second inauguration.
 
It’s an interesting glimpse of a pivotal time in American history.