I shall not drink or smoke while away.—War diary and letters of Stephen Minot Weld.

October 14.—I paid my bill at the Astor House to-day, and went on board the Baltic, Captain Comstock. The Baltic was anchored in the stream, and we were taken out to her in a small tug-boat. I was introduced to the steward, Mr. Godsell, who offered me a drink, which I declined, as I shall not drink or smoke while away. I found it pretty hard to give up smoking, but leaving off drinking is no hardship for me. We spent the night on board the ship. Weather pleasant.