1862 December 24 across the Rappahannock from Fredericksburg, Va.

[from the diary of the Rev. Francis E. Butler, chaplain of the 25th New Jersey]



Dec. 24.  Chilly – took good bath & clean clothes –expounded
SS[scriptures?] talked & prayed in hospitals.  Regt came in from
picket – wrote letters – Col. Stevens 13 N H & Col Mindell
called.  five of our officers have resigned – ill health
&c.  accepted. Jno. has washed my change of clothes as
usual.  looks like storm.  Rumors of Cabinet & Army
Commander changes.  Herald of yesterday says all
as before.  Burnside takes whole responsibility:
Rebel ascs.  Say it is greatest battle on the
Continent – Boys say, Rebel order for “Undouble
files – double quick March!” is – “From four ranks to
to ranks – right Smart – git?”

[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]

MSS 12935