WASHINGTON, D. C., May 13, 1866.
MY DARLING:— Looking around at dinner today, the changes are chiefly in the ladies. The Members of Congress all now wifeless are the same you knew and a few added. We (the Schenck Military Committee), Crook, etc., visited Arlington. It is all right. Lee-his is the severest punishment of any Rebel. Expelled from such a paradise, and it made a graveyard for twelve thousand Rebel and loyal dead!
Last week's work on Reconstruction was very interesting and things are looking well. Some doubts as to the Senate. But if, as I think they will, they merely amend a little by striking out a part, all will come out right. Love to all.
Affectionately,
R.
MRS. HAYES.
SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary
and Letters of Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 3, p. 24-5
