1862 January 6

[from the diary of William Matthews Blackford of Lynchburg, Va.]

Weather uncertain--now threatens rain
now snow--But it moderates somewhat-Was
surprized by Stephen Peters calling on me
to request that I would stand as his chosen wit
ness in the rite of baptism which he wished
to receive at 3 1/2 P.M. at which time his young
est child would be also baptised--I had not
been aware that his mind had been exercised
on the subject of religion at all & of consequence
not prepared for such an announcement. I went
with Mr. Konikle[?] at the hour named to his
house--A few ladies were present. the ceremony
was interesting and novel--a father & child bap
tised at the same time--Peters has been appointed
a Qr Master and ordered to Kentucky and wished
to make a profession of religion before his de-
parture--went to Sue's & found her very busy
preparing for her departure for Leesburg tomor
row morning--After night she came over to take
leave of her mother. I was in hopes til the
last that a telegram would announce that
Charles had obtained a leave & her trip render
-ed unnecessary---Letter from Fleming Saunders
from Orange C H saying he would be with us
tomorrow evening--that he was uninvolved and
would come to our house.

MSS 4763