Prentiss, Mary Y. (fl. 1865) to Abba
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02319 Author/Creator: Prentiss, Mary Y. (fl. 1865) Place Written: Washington, D.C. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 8 March 1865 Pagination: 4 p. ; 20.7 x 13.5 cm. Order a Copy
Written by a young girl to an unidentified recipient (apparently her sister), intermingling observations with gossip and flirtation. Exclaims enthusiastically about all the fun she is having. States that she attended Lincoln's second inauguration in Washington, D.C., on 4 March 1865, and describes Vice President Andrew Johnson's drunkenness when taking the oath. Comments that, "All the senators are more anxious to have Mr. Lincon [sic] live than they ever were before." Also states that people wanted Lincoln and Hannibal Hamlin, Lincoln's first term vice-president, but not Mrs. Lincoln and Johnson. Gossips about various visitors and attending the inaugural ball with a date. Mentions an institution for colored children that is trying to raise money. Chats at length about male suitors and acquaintances.
Washington, D.C. March 8th 1865
Dear Abba
I am haveing a perfectly splendid time here. The ferry between here and Baltimore is frozen up so one can not get away from here just yet … Oh Abba I have been haveing such fun! And am haveing still! Saturday we went to the inauguration. Of course you have heard of the shocking condition that the vice president was in when he took the oath. He was too drunk to preside in the Senate Monday or Tuesday. A gentleman that came to the inauguration in the car with Mr. Johnson said that Mr. J kept his flask in his jacket and drank often. All the senators are more anxious to have Mr. Lincon live than they ever were before. People say they wanted Licon & Hamlin, but not Mrs. Lincon, and Johnson. Saturday night we dressed and went over to the presidents reception, but it was such a dread full jamb that we did not try to get in and see the president, so we drove home again. … Mr. L asked Emily to go to the inauguration ball with him, and Col. Smith asked me. We went and had a splendid time, did not get home till five in the morning …There is a home for colored women and children that Miss Searle is very much interested in, they are in need of friends to keep it along …
M. Y. Prentiss
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