1863 January 4 Camp across the Rappahannock from Fredericksburg

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


Sun 4. A review of 9th Army Corps was ordered for today
I felt it was a desecration of the day, & sat down &
wrote a respectful appeal to Gen. Burnside to postpone                       
it.  & sent it by Jacob.  The Gen was in bed, ordered Jacob
to wait – wrote me an autograph letter.  Asked Jacob
if he belongs to same regt. with me – sd. yes – you
are sure – yes sir – then give him this –

[Here follows a copy of a letter from General Ambrose E. Burnside to Chaplain Francis E. Butler dated January 4th, 1863.]

“Rev. F. E. Butler
             “My dear Sir
                                 “I have just received your
“kind note, and most cheerfully grant your request.
“The order postponing the review has been sent.
“You have my most sincere thanks for giving me
“so timely, and necessary a check.  You are quite
“right in saying that nothing should be done
“to interfere with the religious exercises which
“which it is our duty at all times to observe –
                                         Yours very sincerely
                                              Signed – A.E. Burnside.”

The order soon came countermanding the review,
& the regts. had a day of rest.  I preached in P.M.
on Rejoice in the Lord Phil 4:4.  In his character, providence
& Promises – to Xs. & Service - &c.  Prayer meetg. in Eveg. there
[-] prayers – lovely day & night – but high wind.

[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]

MSS 12935