Headquarters Provost Marshal’s Office,

Washington, D. C. January 14^th 1864

 

Dear Friends at Home

                                                                                                                        Its very dull to day. I’ve cleared my desk of all business and its yet only two oclock; I do not owe any one a letter and am realy at a loss to know what. I can however always find something to say to you. The great event with H and I since I last wrote you is the Presidents Levee which came off on Tuesday evening. H & I went about 9 & remained until 10. the affair was not very “brilliant” and there was rather a thin attendance but it gave us a better chance to see what was done and who was there. Sec. Seward & “Ferdumely Wood” / and lady were the most important personages I saw. Mrs. W. was literally covered with diamonds; some of the ladies were splendidly dressed and others reminded me of the crowds that used to throng the Methodist Levees. We waded around the crowd shook hands with the President who accosted me with “How are you Lieut.” And a cordial shake. The more I see of Old Abe the better I like him. I hope he will be the next nominee for the President. John B. Gough begins a course of four lectures this evening H & I shall be regular in our attendance Curtis, Beecher, Phillips, and all the celebrities are to come sometime during the winter /

 

There are to be two Sanitary Fairs during the coming month. Mrs Jordan & Susie and in fact almost everyone is at work for them I anticipate a good time. There was a “grand hop at Willards” last night You remember how they used to look in print dont you? I wish you would send in an envelope the next time you write my other shirt stud or if the pants are coming soon send it in them. How are affairs getting along concerning the Will? How long will it be before things are settled up. The weather has moderated considerably and we are now having our January thaw. I must enquire again for Sarah H. I have not / heard from her yet. What are you doing from day to day give me a programme What do you hear from Mary. Does Halwell ever say anything about her?

 

            Love to all the friends

                        Everyours

                                    J. W. Sturtevant

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