J.G Ramsdall from A.B. Markham, Mar. 5, 1865

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Washington March the 5th, 1865

Dear "Brother Ramsdell"

The day has passed!  The 4th of March 1865 wull long be remembered by the American people.  Thousands and tens of thousands met at the Capitol of "these United States" at the day to inagurate the Chief Magistrate of our beloved country.  The thing is done!  The greatest man now living, is, now, at the head of at the head of as great a people as ever existed on the face of the whole earth!  We ought to be proud of our station and reverence the being who has thus placed us among the nations.

For me, to even attempt, to give a discription of the place and the public buildings --- the exhibition of the 4th, the visit, last night, at the White House --- the reception by the president and hiis very good looking and accomplished lady --- the number of people of both sex --- the modus operandi at the great mansion --- the entrance in to the "East Room" --- the entertainment there --- the music; and, the apperance and regalia of the bands, &c. &c. is impossible.  Suffice it to say, everything passed off quietly and nothing even interested me as I have been interested here with all that I have seen and heard.