Emergency Answer Needed

[RJNorton]

He was in civilian clothes according to what he said in his 1909 address to the New York commandery of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States:

"As a very large number from the Army stationed near Washington frequently visited the city, a general order was in force that none should be there without a special pass and all wearing uniform and out at night were subject to frequent challenge. To avoid this inconvenience officers stationed in Washington generally removed all signs of their calling when off duty. I changed to civilian's dress and hurried to Ford's Theatre, where I had been told President Lincoln, General Grant, and members of the Cabinet were to be present to see the play, "Our American Cousin."

Ed Steers agrees that Leale was in civilian clothes (p. 119 of Blood on the Moon). James Swanson includes Leale's statement on civilian dress (p. 32 of Manhunt).