1778. January 1st. New Year. I am alive. I am well.

Huts go on briskly, and our camp begins to appear like a spacious city.

Bought an embroidered jacket.

How much we affect to appear of consequence by a superfluous dress, and yet custom (that law which none may fight against) has rendered this absolutely necessary and commendable. An officer frequently fails of being duly noticed, merely from the want of a genteel dress.

Sunday, Jan. 4th. Properly accoutered I went to work at masonry. None of my Mess were to dictate me, and before night (being found with mortar and stone) I almost completed a genteel chimney to my magnificent hut however, as we had short allowance of food and no grog my back ached before night.

I was called to relieve a soldier thought to be dying he expired before I reached the hut. He was an Indian an excellent soldier and an obedient good natured fellow.

8th.--Unexpectedly got a furlough. Set out for home. The very worst of riding mud and mire.

244 WASHINGTON AT VALLEY FORGE