By Elaine Grublin
The following excerpt is from the diary of Stephen Greenleaf Bulfinch.
Saturday, Feb. 4th, 1865
In public affairs, rumors thicken with the promise of peace. The visit of F.P. Blair to Richmond has led to a meeting of the Sec. of State, & since of the President, with commissioners from the rebels, at Fortress Monroe. Meantime, the proposed amendment to the Constitution, abolishing slavery, has passed, & is already ratified by some of the states. There is cause for praise, trust, and hope.
Friday, Feb. 10th 1865
The peace conference has resulted in failure; & Grant is opening the campaign of 1865.