Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft, Saturday, February 9, 1861

Mercury 20 this morning and the weather is quite moderate. The public mind seems to be much quieted and all seem to expect that a settlement will be made betwen the north and the border Slave States at least, in which case the “Cotton States” it is thought will ultimately come back. Seven have now seceded, Texas last. Business in the Pat office is increasing again. Some of the Examiners are quaking in their shoes for fear of being removed by the incoming Administration. I am quite indifferent about it. Was at “Willards” an hour tonight, 800 guests.

SOURCE: Horatio Nelson Taft, The Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft, 1861-1865. Volume 1, January 1,1861-April 11, 1862, Library of Congress, Manuscript Division, Washington D. C., image 17.

Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft, Monday, February 11, 1861

It has been warm and pleasant today but is a little rainy tonight. Business in the Pat office goes on as usual and is now increasing. Went down to Willards and met my old friend J C Smith who is a member of the Peace Convention from NY. The Hotel is or appears to be quite full. It is said that the proffits are at least $1200 pr day. Went from Willards to the Adams Express office (sending trunk of clothing &c to Julia). Called in at the “National.” Came home and read papers and go to bed at 12 1/1.

SOURCE: Horatio Nelson Taft, The Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft, 1861-1865. Volume 1, January 1,1861-April 11, 1862, Library of Congress, Manuscript Division, Washington D. C., image 17.

Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft, Tuesday, February 12, 1861

Have had rather a busy day of it and it has been quite warm. Packed Julia's trunk and then went to the Pat office. Went up to the Navy Dept by request of Chief Engineer Sam^l Archibold to inspect some Drawings and Models of Engines, Valves, &c. Went to Express off and p^d charge on trunk $2.00 and then back to Pa^t office. Have not done much office work today, a good many in the room talking over the affairs of the Nation. Went this evening to the Levee (the last of Pre^s Buchanans). A great crowd there, many Army & Navy officers in uniform. H N J^r went with me and was introduced to the Pres^t & shook hands with him.

SOURCE: Horatio Nelson Taft, The Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft, 1861-1865. Volume 1, January 1,1861-April 11, 1862, Library of Congress, Manuscript Division, Washington D. C., image 18.

Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft, Tuesday, February 26, 1861

Another fine day, air soft and warm as May. The “Peace Convention” adjourned today having passed resolutions which are said to be satisfactory to all except the extremists of both parties. Strangers are pouring into the City, and the Patent office is thronged from morning till night. Wrote to Julia today to come home if she can get good company. Wrote to Mr Redfield to provide it — for [her] if he can. Fixed up some bedsteads after dinner, got pretty tired, did not go out this evening as usual. People are indignant at the conduct of Gen^l Twiggs in Texas.

SOURCE: Horatio Nelson Taft, The Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft, 1861-1865. Volume 1, January 1,1861-April 11, 1862, Library of Congress, Manuscript Division, Washington D. C., image 22.

Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft, Thursday, February 28, 1861

Another Spring day rather too warm in the sun. I took the shady side in coming from the office. One Hundred Guns were fired at noon on account of the result of the Peace Con^tn by order of Gen^l Scott. Interupted a good deal today in the office, could not do much business. Went on to 7^th St after dinner and made some purchases, 2 looking glasses and Holly a Jacket. Have been at home this evening Drafting — a Condenser and also a Decalorator or water cooler for Steam Ships, plans of my own. I think I could get them Patented if I was out of the office, cannot while I am in. I have other improvements relating to the Steam Engine.

SOURCE: Horatio Nelson Taft, The Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft, 1861-1865. Volume 1, January 1,1861-April 11, 1862, Library of Congress, Manuscript Division, Washington D. C., image 23.