Glass_ _^LfcL2^T Book__j_/L£Z__ I l /s y 3 a o £, o Ci5^*£*>rt/ /^«- &Ak^£c&^~ /&~&>«-^k &" C v1 ANNALS United States Christian Commission Rev. LEMUEL MOSS Home Secretary to the Commission PHILADELPHIA J. B. LIPPINCOTT & CO 1868 . Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1S6S, by HORATIO GATES JONES, Secretary of the Trustees of the U. S. Christian Commission, In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States, for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Lippincott's Press, philadelphia. TO THE Young Men's Christian Associations UNITED STATES. BY WHOSE ACTION THE UNITED STATES CHRISTIAN COMMISSION WAS CONSTITUTED, THIS VOLUME RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED. ADVERTISEMENT. By the direction of the Executive Committee of the I'ni ted States Christian Commission* approved at the final meeting of the Commission at large, and under the management of the residuary Trustees of the Commission, appointed January n, 1866, all the profits which accrue from the sale of this volume arc to be applied "to the spiritual and temporal benefit of those who are, have been, or /nay be, soldiers or sailors in the service of the United Stalcs. n ' 1 See page 229. PREFACE This volume has been prepared in accordance with the request of the Executive Committee of the United States Christian Com- mission, and under the superintendence of a special Committee appointed for that purpose. 1 I have given the name of Axxai.s to the book, because it is simply an endeavor to narrate the events which occurred in the course of the Christian Commission's operations. No attempt is made to discuss the causes or consequences of this unique religious movement. No attempt is made to criticise the principles by which the Commission was guided, nor the conduct of those who were brought into direct or indirect connection with it. Even in the few cases where it may seem that censure is implied, there is no intended reference to motives. Without any concealment of mv own sympathies, it has yet been my aim to be as nearly impersonal as possible, that thus the story might " tell itself." I have therefore freely used contemporaneous documents of all kinds, believing that, whatever their deficiencies may be, they are far more valuable, as expressions of the spirit and circum- stances of the times, — and these are the principal things to be preserved in such a volume, — than any generalized statements of my own. The book might easily have been made much larger. It has i See pp. 227, 229. 6 PREFACE. not always been easy, with the abundant materials at hand, to select and compress. It will be seen that my method has been, hi some important instances, to choose certain topics for detailed statement and illustration, and to pass over other kindred points, — equally worthy in themselves, perhaps, of similar treatment, — with the briefest allusions. A full narration of everything was impossible, within reasonable limits, and such a representative ] in 'Mutation seemed preferable to one that should aim at greater symmetry and end by failing to give a distinct impression of any part. That there have been no errors of judgment in the selection and treatment of topics is more than I dare hope. I can only claim an intention of giving a fair and clear exhibition of the whole subject, in such a manner as should secure to the book the greatest and most permanent value. My obligations to others, for assistance of various kinds, are many and great. In their proper places will be found acknow- ledgments for such as I have used of the communications or suggestions of my correspondents. I would repeat here my hearty thanks for their generous and valuable aid. I have not hesitated to ask help wherever it seemed to promise the slightest increase of value to the book, and my requests have uniformly received prompt and courteous attention. The name of W. W. Keen, M.D.j of Philadelphia, should be added to the note at page 52, as I recently learned my indebtedness to him for the conveyance of a package of valuable documents from Paris. The officers of the United States Government confirmed their previous kindness to the Commission by readily granting such requests as I had occasion to ask. It would be a pleasure to record here the names of some gentle PREFACE. 7 friends, who will discover traces of their handiwork in the following pages, but they much prefer to enjoy their discovery unrecognized. It is elsewhere noted that John A. Cole, Esq., Rev. E. P. Smith, Mrs. A,nnie Wittenmyer, and Rev. J. C. Thomas, either wholly prepared the narratives of the work in their respec- tive departments, or furnished materials therefor. In this con- nection the services of Mr. John Irving Forbes demand special recognition. For several months he was engaged in selecting and arranging materials, with which his previous duties at the Central Office of the Commission had made him familiar. He also pre- pared the List of Delegates and several of the Statistical Tables. The Committee of Publication, under whose superintendence the work has been prepared, as well as other gentlemen officially connected with the Commission and its Branches, have aided me by the examination of my manuscript and proofs. But more than to any one else my thanks are due to Chas. Demond, Esq., of Bu.-ton. His great familiarity with the operations of the Com- mission, from the beginning and in all its departments, has ren- dered his assistance of the highest value. He has read all the manuscript with great care and has gone patiently over all the proofs. His suggestions have been a constant help and his approval a constant encouragement. It is a personal gratification to acknowledge the courtcsv and painstaking attention of the publishers, stereotypers, and en- gravers. How well they have done their work it would be super- fluous to say. My associates in the University, with thoughtful consideration, have greatly relieved me in my professional obligations during 8 PREFACE. the preparation of this volume, — for an entire year dividing among themselves my duties of instruction. No pains have been spared to secure accuracy in the facts, figures, dates, and names of persons and places. Nothing has been stated for which there did not seem to be a satisfactory warrant. But it is impossible that there should not be some mistakes, — perhaps many, — and their correction will be thank- fully received. The Introduction is unavoidably fragmentary and imperfect. But it contains many interesting facts, — some curious and some very sad. If it aids in stimulating some one to investigate the subject there sketched, one design of its insertion will be attained. The chapter on Preliminary Movements is believed to be more nearly complete than any similar record of the first indica- tions that our people were ready for the philanthropic and Chris- tian activity which the terrible conflict rendered imperative. The engravings, with one or two minor exceptions, are from photographs, and materially increase the value of the book. The portrait of Mr. Stuart has been added, because of the wide- spread desire of his fellow-laborers in the Commission to possess this soui-cnir of their association. The book is sent forth with diffidence, and yet not without confidence, — trusting that it will commend itself to those who sustained and encouraged the Commission by their prayers and their beneficence, and to Him also whose name the Commission wore and who bestowed upon it so constantly and so abundantly of His blessing. Lemuel Moss. University at Loswisbdrg, Penna., 1 Xovembcr 12, 1S07. J CONTENTS. PAGE INTRODUCTION.— A GLANCE BACKWARDS 13 CHAPTER I. PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS 63 CHAPTER II. THE FIRST YEAR 103 CHAPTER III. THE SECOND YEAR 142 CHAPTER IV. THE TniRD YEAR 105 CHAPTER V. THE FOURTH YEAR Z22 CHAPTER VI. AUXILIARIES 294 2 9 10 CONTENTS. CHAPTER VII. FAOB WORK IN THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC 360 CHAPTER VIII. WORK IN THE ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND 455 CHAPTER IX. CONTRIBUTIONS 519 CHAPTER X. DELEGATES 541 CHAPTER XI. STORES.— SFECIAL DIET KITCHENS 639 CHAPTER XII. PUBLICATIONS.— LOAN LIBRARIES 6S5 CHAPTER XIII. SUMMARY 725 MEMORIAL RECORD— OUR HONORED DEAD 738 INDEXES.— I. INDEX TO THE INTRODUCTION 741 II. INDEX TO THE ANNALS 743 ILLUSTRATIONS. PORTRAIT OF GEO. H. STUART Frontispiece. PAGE CHAPEL AT MEADE STATION', Va — Exterior 1S3 CHAPEL AT MEADE STATION. V.i — Interior 184 STATMX AT MOROANZIA. LA 1S6 STATION AT FORT LEAVENWORTH, KAOTAS 313 SOLDIERS' DINING-ROOM, PITTSBURG, Pa 340 CHAPEL FLAG 413 STATION AT GENERAL HOSPITAL, CITY POINT, Va 421 A WINTER STATION 422 A FIELD-HOSPITAL STATION 428 THE COFFEE WAGON 445 STATION AT FORTRESS MONROE 571 DELEGATES BADGE 601 LADY MANAGER'S BADGE 0S4 LOAN LIBRARY 720 11 INTRODUCTION. A GLANCE BACKWARD. The recent conflict for the preservation of the American Union lias familiarized the minds of the people with the scenes and operations of war. The history of past wars is now irradiated with the light of actual experience, and they have thereby be- come invested with a new interest. The motives, the precursors, the attendant circumstances, the results for human welfare and advancement, in the previous contests of the race, have become questions of new significance, for which also we now have the key to a better understanding. The inrluenee of Christianity upon war has been signalized during our civil strife as never before, and by the light of the present illustration we can more clearly trace the past movements and progress of this influence upon the passions of men. His- tory furnishes many more contrasts than parallels to our war, because in the vast majority of instances, both ancient and modern, wars have been undertaken by monarchical or despotic powers, from motives of personal aggrandizement, envy, and revenge, or for the political glory of the ruling classes. Never before were the people of a nation so immediately concerned in the declaration, support, and direction of a great war, for the maintenance of national unity and the promotion of human broth- erhood. The agency of Christianity in preparing the circum- stances and conditions of such a war, — in starting and shaping the questions which rendered it possible and inevitable, — in training the nation to an appreciation of its duty, and in supply- 13 14 INTRODUCTION. ing the power to perform it, — suggests a theme of surpassing interest. Its just treatment would require a survey of the entire field of modern history, for the seeds of our present discussions and attainments, in civil and religious freedom, were deposited in human society by the teachings of Christ and during the mis- sionary labors of the Apostles. But if the agency of Christianity is signally manifest in pre- paring the nation for the war and the war for the nation, the power and beneficence of its ministry were displayed amid the very scenes of the war, in a manner and to an extent wholly unparalleled in history. " Christianity has been for centuries winning triumphs. It has civilized and instructed the masses, founded schools and seminaries, diffused the knowledge of human rights, sanctified the press, and influenced the governments of earth. It has entered the domestic circle, and elevated woman ; it has purified and ennobled the relationships of life; and the highest and purest of spirits have given it their homage. But never before had it stepped forth in all its glorious radiance upon the field of battle." ' As introductory to an account of this ministry of Christianity upon the field of battle, in the operations of the U. S. Christian Commission, it may be well to glance at the position of the sol- dier in the past history of war, as seen in the care bestowed upon his physical and moral wants. Ours was emphatically the soldiers' own war. They fought for themselves and their fami- lies. They fought also for the government which they had estab- lished, and which they were determined to maintain and control, as the instrument of their own prosperity. Hence the •whole nation was, in one sense, in the army, — a part going as delegates for all into the field, while the others remained at home to succor and sustain them. This truth, the constant remembrance of which is essential to an understanding of the war, in the unity, universality, and fervor of the national purpose, and essential also to a comprehension of the work of the Commission, in its method 1 Bishop Simpson's Address at the Closing Anniversary of the Christian Com- mission. A GLANCE BACKWARD. 15 and extent, can be best appreciated from the brief historical survey proposed. The survey must be brief, and in many respects very inadequate, for it is an inquiry which no one has prosecuted as a special study, and the scanty materials are widely scattered throughout ancient and modern literature. Yet something can be said which will aid in justly estimating the subject directly before us. The first distinct mention of war is in the Bible (Gen. xiv), at a date more than a thousand years earlier than the birth of Homer or the fabled founding of Rome. Abraham, the " father of the faithful" and the "friend of God," is brought before us as a victorious warrior. Standing as Abraham does at the begin- ning of political and ecclesiastical history, it is of interest to observe that the drama of civilization and religious progress opens with war and with triumph for the right. There had been fightings before, for the wickedness and violence of man had been great, but the records are fragmentary and the allusions obscure. The wandering tribes and families were segregating and crystallizing into nations and governments. The race as a race had now reached its lowest point of impiety and barbarism. From henceforth, beginning with one man, there is to be a sepa- rate and divinely-instructed people, whose fortunes, under the various aspects of the patriarchate, Judaism, and Christianity, are to constitute the main story of human progress, and in their relations to whom the histories of other peoples become signifi- cant and valuable. Chedorlaomer, an Elamite chief, with several confederates, made a sudden foray upon the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah and the neighboring communities, — killing, capturing, and dispersing them. "And they took all the goods of Sodom and Gomorrah, and all their victuals, and went their way. And they took Lot, Abram's brother's son, who dwelt in Sodom, and his goods, and departed." Immediately on learning of the dis- aster Abraham "armed his trained servants, born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen," — the first company of godly soldiers on record, — put himself at their head, and pursued after the offenders. With great courage, and no little strategy, he 10 INTRODUCTION. attacked the freebooters and completely despoiled them. " He brought back all the goods, and also brought again his brother Lot and his goods, and the women also, and the people." No wonder that Abraham received the congratulations and thanks of those whom he had so greatly befriended, and who could appreciate the chivalrous generosity of this servant of God. After the Jews became a nation and entered on the possession of Canaan, they were, like all the nations of antiquity, continu- ally involved in war. " War," says Goldwin Smith, " was the universal state of nations in early times ; and the strong though coarse foundations of human character were laid in the qualities of the warrior. The Jews were always surrounded and always threatened by war. Therefore to fight valiantly for his country and his temple was part, not only of the civil duty but of the moral training of a Jew, and to be with the people in the hour of battle, and exhort them to behave bravely, was part of the, office of the priest, and consistent with the character of his call- ing." ' (See Deut. xx.) From the laws of war and the position of the priest in the army it is evident that the Jewish soldier was not wholly neg- 1 Does the Bible sanction American Slavery? By Goldwin Smith, ll. d., Regius Professor of Modem History in the University of Oxford, England. Cambridge : Sever and Francis. ISI'4. See page 17. This admirable pamphlet has a permanent value, aside from the particular theme discussed, in its statement and illustration of the principles of historical criticism. As pertinent to the present subject, a few additional sentences may be given. Commenting upon Deut. xx, as showing the superior moral advancement ol the Jews, Professor Smith says, "The Mosaic laws of war for the present day would be very inhuman; for that day, and compared with the practices blazoned on the triumphal monuments of Assyrian and Egyptian warriors, they were humane. That which is of Moses and of God in this passage is the command to proclaim peace to a city, and give its garrison the option of saving their lives by becoming tributaries, before proceeding to the usual extremities of Oriental war. The duty of giving quarter to the garrison of a city taken by storm was not known to the group of primitive nations of which the Jews were one; it was not known to the polished Athenian who massacred the inhabitants of Melos without mercy; it. was not known to the combatants in the Thirty Years' War : it was hardly known to Cromwell ; but it is known now." Page 15. The kings of Israel had the reputation among surrounding nations of being "merciful kings." (1 Kings xx. 31.) A GLANCE BACKWARD. 17 lected, either as to bodily care or religious culture. But the notices in. the Bible on these points are so few and meagre that we cannot gain much particular knowledge. It is a singular fact that while much curious information on the warlike customs of other ancient nations has been obtained from the remains of sculptures, vases, bronzes, mosaics, and paintings, which have survived to our times, we have no such source of information respecting the Jews. " In remarkable contrast to Greece, Borne, Egypt, and we may now add Assyria, Palestine has not yet yielded one vestige of the implements or utensils of life or war- fare of its ancient inhabitants; nor has a single sculpture, piece of pottery, coin or jewel, been discovered of that people with whose life, as depicted in their literature, we are more familiar than with that of our own ancestors." 1 The general treatment of the early Jewish Army is thus summed up by the authority just quoted : "The maintenance and equipment of the soldiers at the public expense dates from the establishment of a standing army," in the reign of David. Before that time "each soldier armed himself, and obtained his food either by voluntary offer- ings (2 Sam. xvii. 28, 29), by forced exactions (1 Sam. xxv. 13), or by the natural resources of the country (1 Sam. xiv. 27). On one occasion only do we hear of any systematic arrangement for provisioning the host (Judg. xx. 10). It is doubtful whether the soldier ever received pay, even under the kings. The only instance of pay being mentioned applies to mercenaries (2 Chron. xxv. (3). But that he was maintained while on active service, and provided with arms, appears from 1 Kings iv. 27; x. 16, 17; 2 Chron. xxvi. 14, 15."' A writer in several numbers of the Army and Navy Journal for 1SG4 treats of the medical arrangements in the armies of the ancients. He shows by circumstantial reasoning and historical facts that much more attention was paid to the wants of their soldiers than is commonly supposed. We know that the Egyp- tians, as well as the Greeks and Romans, made attainments in 1 Smith's Dictionary of the /'■>'■<'<. word ArTnor. 2 Dictionary of the Bible, woril Army. 18 INTRODUCTION. medicine which would be deemed respectable even at the present time, and that at least in the earlier periods of history their sol- diers were regarded with special honor. Anecdotes might he gathered from their literature, and some formal statements and legal prescriptions, which confirm the favorable presumption thus raised, that their soldiers were well cared for. In Egypt physi- cians were supported from the public treasury, and were required to treat soldiers without charge.' The Babylonians and Chal- deans had no physicians. " In cases of sickness the patient was carried out and exposed on the highway, that any persons passing by, who had been affected in a similar manner, might give some information respecting the means that had afforded them relief." No one was allowed to pass the sick without seeking to ascertain their diseases.' 2 Cyrus, King of Persia, according to Xcnophon, spared no pains to procure for his soldiers all that could contri- bute to their welfare. Even if the work of Xcnophon is a romance, it at least shows what he regarded as the duty of a good commander. The writer in the Army and Navy Journal above referred to, says that "the first mention of medicine in war in authentic history (as opposed to poetry and mythological chrono- logy based on obscure facts), is at the siege of Crissa, or rather of Cyrrha, near Delphi, on a bay of the Gulf of Corinth, by the Ainpliietyons, about B. c. COO. A pestilential malady prevailing in the camp of the besiegers, they sent for Xebrus, the great- great-grandfather, of Hippocrates the Great, to visit their camp. The physician proceeded thither, and seems to have brought health in his train, since by his police and attention the pestilence was overcome, and the sanitary condition of the troops was entirely restored." It appears indeed that on this occasion Xebrus, the most famous physician of his time, took with him his sou Chrysus, scarcely less celebrated as a physician, and took also a large war vessel fitted up at his own expense with both medical and mili- tary apparatus. Their heroism and skill were of great service to 1 Rawlinson's Herodotus, Vol. II, p. 117, note. - Rawlinson's Herodotus, Vol. I, p. 203 : Smith's Dictionary of Greek and Soman Antiquities, word Medicina, A GLANCE BACKWARD. V.) tlic besiegers. 1 It is prtib'able that the greatest physicians in Grecian history were at times employed in the army, at least for the care <>t' the lenders. Many anecdotes are told of the atten- tion of Alexander the Great to Ins soldiers, — sharing their pri- vations, visiting the sick and wbunded,-and giving commands for the relief of their wants.- It is thought that the ancient Romans, especially in their later history, had an organized medical depart- ment in their armies. The probabilities are; however, that from all the appliances and advantages noticed the common soldier profited very little. I Silt not to dwell on these details, which are obscure at lust, and can hardly lie of general interest, we are permitted to give the testimony of those whose knowledge of the entire subject will be readily admitted, and who have kindly answered our inquiries. Henry Coppe'e, i,l. d., President of Lehigh University, Beth- lehem, Penna., thus writes: — "The hospital arrangements of the Greeks and Romans were extremely meagre. The Grecian soldier was to a great extent his own surgeon, and many of them had some skill in the rude surgery of the time. The physicians of Alexander the Great were for his own behoof and that of his friends, and did not take care of his troops. "The Medieus Vidnerariws (physician for wounds) of the Ro- mans was attached to the legion, and was highly esteemed.? But with the subversion of Rome the military system became quite chaotic, and the troops depended fir the care of their health on quackish camp followers, not much above the Indian ' Medicine- Men.' I think yon may safely start with the assertion that hos- pitals, army asylums, etc., have had their origin in modern times." 1 Smith's Dictionary qf Greek and Roman Biography, articles Nebrus and Chrysus. ■ See Philip Smith's History of the World, pp. I'. 1 . 77. etc. 3 ••Tin' Romans, ii i- con led by the Conversations Lexicon, had Division Sm- Vedicx Vulnerarii), one to each lejjinn. This statement does not go far enough. There were surgeons, not only to legions, but alBO to cohorts {modern battalions). Besides these there were classes of officers especially charged with collecting and taking care of the wounded, etc." — Army and Navy ■' August 27th, 1844. 20 INTRODUCTION. Professor Tayler Lewis, ll. i>., of Union College, writing more at length, says: "There is nothing in all antiquity that can be compared with the labors of the Christian Commission in our country. I refer not now to that part of the work which may be called Christian in the more special sense, and which was altogether unknown to the ancient States. There was but little done tor the bodily sustenance or the outward help of the poor, whether they became destitute from ordinary causes or the casual- tics of war and the public service. 1 Still we must not judge them by modern ideas. The state of society was so different, — almost all manual labor being performed by slaves, — that our political economy, as well as our notions of charity, become inapplicable to their circumstances. Not to enter upon this, however, which would lead me away from the main questions you propose, I would simply give you the little information that is to be obtained in respect to their treatment of disabled soldiers. This is scanty enough* There are no treatises upon the subject, nor any extended references to it in the historians or the orators. An allusion here and there by Aristotle or Plutarch, or some of their most discur- sive writers, is all that can be found. The Greek States, and especially Athens, did make such provision, though certainly not on any very large scale. One reason that may be given is, that the objects requiring such bounty were far less numerous than those that are made by our modern wars. The Greeks had no standing armies, nor even any that can well be compared to our volunteers, — entering upon a Held service for two or three years. They were quick levies of citizen soldiers or sailors, sent out on defensive or offensive excursions, and soon returning to give place 1 Dr. Arnold, writing of the Roman Empire as it was at the beginning of the Christian era, says, " Charity ami general philanthropy were so little regarded as duties, that it requires a very extensive acquaintance with the literature of the time t>> find anv allusion to them. There were no puhlie hospitals, no institutions fur the relief of the infirm and poor; no societies for the removal of abuses or the im- provement of the' condition of mankind, from motives of charity. Nothing was done to promote the instruction of the lower classes, nothing to mitigate the miseries of domestic slavery, and tar less to stop altogether the perpetual atrocities of the kidnapper and the slave-market." — Encyc. Metropol., as quoted in Kitto's Biblical Cyclopedia, third English edition, Vol. Ill, page 694. A GLANCE BACKWARD. 21 to others. This continued until the long Peloponnesian War (b. c. 130) began to make a change in the military service. Their campaigns were short, sharp, and decisive. Hence the casualties of war, aside from those directly killed and wounded, were much less than in our own times. Hence too there is so little to be found respecting any hospital or commissary service in the Greek wars. Again, from the very nature of their fight- ing, 1 the number of the wounded bore a much less proportion to the killed than it now does. Battles were fierce and short, soon decided by the rout (zoo-rj) of one side or the other, and then it was escape or slaughter. 2 Few prisoners were taken. We see this from the great noise the Athenian orators and demagogues made about the few hundred prisoners they once happened to take from the Spartans at Pylos. The Bible historians, too, show this. We read of the great numbers of the slain (so great some- times that we arc almost driven to the supposition of numerical mistakes in the text), 3 but we seldom if ever read of the wounded or the sick in camp. Indeed this last item, which is so important 1 " The combat assumed the form of a number of hand-to-hand contests, depend- ing on the qualities of the individual soldier rather than on the disposition of ma — . Hence the value attached to fleetness ofToot and strength of arm (2 Sam. i. 23: ii. 18; 1 Chron. xii. 8). Another mode of settling the dispute was by the selection of champions |l Sam. xyiij 2 Sam. ii. 14-17), who were spurred on to exertion by the offer of high reward ( I Sam. xvii. 25 : 2 Sam. xviii. 11 ; 1 Chron. xi. in." Smith's ]' Bible, word War. The same remarks apply to the other nations of antiquity not less tlian to the Jew--. See Smith's Dictionary of Greek and 'Roman Antiquities, word Exercitus. 2 In the ancient phalanx a reverse was never provided for. See New American Cyclopedia, Vol. 11, page 120. 3 To take an example: In 2 Chron. xiii is an account of Abijah's victory over Jerol i. Iris said that Abijah had "an army of valiant men .if war. — even four hundred thousand chosen men:" and that Jeroboam had "eight hundred thousaud chosen men. being mighty men of valor." They fought with the ani- mosity of parties to a civil war. and with the desperation and stubbornness charac- teristic of their nation. The result was, that of Jeroboam's men live hundred thousand were slain in the hand-to-hand contest and subsequent rout. If now. through the mode of ancient notation, these numbers arc here overstated, the error equally affects each enumeration, so thai the proportions remain the Thai i- i" say, one army was twice the size of the other, arid five-eighths of the larger army were destroyed. With this compare the stale m that in Cresar's 22 INTRODUCTION. in our modern statistics, hardly appears at all in the ancient military narratives. " The Greeks attached great importance to the recovery of the bodies of the dead. Hence we find in the account of almost every battle particular mention of negotiations between the opposing commanders on that subject. The sending of a herald for the recovery of the dead was an acknowledgment of defeat, but the general who should have suffered them to remain with the enemy, would have received more censure at home for so doing than for his failure in obtaining the victory. On one memorable occasion, even when a naval victory was obtained, the triumphant com- manders were voted to be put to death for their neglect, in not recovering the dead bodies from some of the sinking ships. The minuteness with which their writers dwell on this matter shows that they would have been equally explicit on other things, had there been the same grounds of reason and fact. Their bodies were carried home (if it could be done), and solemn funeral orations were delivered on the occasions. These are strongly called to mind by the proceedings at Gettysburg, where we seemed to come nearer to the old Greek modes of thinking than at any other point of our military history. Mr. Everett's ora- tion there, and Mr. Lincoln's short but most pathetic address, were equal to anything ever delivered on such occasions by Pericles or Isocrates. 1 great victory over the Nervii, out of an army of sixty thousand warriors the con- queror slew all except five hundred: (See Smith's History of the World, Vol. III. p. 21(5). It may not he amiss to add the following note from the Annotated Para- graph Bible (London Religious Tract Society's octavo edition), page 516: — "With reference to the numbers of armies mentioned in the (Biblical) history, which appear sometimes exceedingly large, it is to be remembered that in Eastern nations every person capable of bearing arms was compelled to join the host when the monarch pleased ; that oriental sovereigns seem to have prided themselves on the numbers rather than the discipline of their troops; and that the enumeration probably often includes the followers of the camp, who in the East are sometimes far more numerous than those armed for battle." (See Kitto's Cyclopedia of Bibli- cal Literature, word War,) 1 In illustration of Prof. Lewis's statements it may be proper to refer more fully to the Athenian custom of giving public funerals to her soldiers, as shown by the example at the close of the first year of the Peloponnesian war: "According to A GLANCE BACKWARD. 23 " But, as I said before, they did make provision for the wounded, sometimes in the general -poor lavjs (which the Greek States, Athens certainly, maintained as part of their standing policy, although I am aware that this lias been denied), and sometimes by special provision. It was not only in their hypothetical or Utopian writings, — such as Plato's treatise De Lajibus, where he lays down a system of legislation for a fancied State, but in their actual polity. We find express mention of it among the actual laws of Solon.' It was also provided by the regulations of Pisisr- tratus, — tyrant though he was called. In the article aSuvazoc (" the disabled") Suidas speaks of as many as five hundred each day being thus taken care of at the public expense. That would be thought a small number now, but it was actually large for those times, and it was regarded as a consequence of the long and severe Peloponnesian war. It is stated in one place- that the do'juizue (disabled) received two oboli a day, — a sum doubtless the annual custom of Athens, the soldiers who had fallen in the campaigns of this summer were honored with a splendid public funeral and a monument in the suburb called the Ceramicus (the Potter's Quarter). Their children were educated at the public expense, and when the sons came to the military age they received a suit of arinur. and were presented to the people on the stage at the Dion] (feast -I Bacchus). The Greek religion required a strict performance of funeral in-, till which the shades of the dead were supposed to wander around tin' abode ul Hades, forbidden to pass the waters of the Styx. For this reason, as well as not to leave such trophies in the hands of the enemy, the utmost importance was attached to the recovery of the bodies of those who fell in battle. They were burnt upon tin- Geld, and their bones were carried home for the public funeral. Two days before the ceremony the remains were laid in state before a tent, whither the relatives brought their offerings. At the time of the funeral, the bones were placed in coffers "I r\ press wood, one for every tribe, and borne forth on cars, followed by an empty bier covered with a pall, representing those who were not found at the taking up of the dead. Every resident in Athens who pleased, whether citizen or foreigner, joined in the procession, and the tomb was surrounded by wailing women, the relatives of the deceased. When at last they were deposited in the ground, a man. appointed to the office for his intelligence and worth, mounted a lofty platform and pronounced their eulogy, and so the people were dismissed. On this occasion the funeral oration was by Pericles; and tin' report of it in the pages of Thucydides forms one of the most remarkable remains of the literature of any people."— .History of the World, by Philip Smith, Vol. I, p. 197. 1 See Plutarch, Life of Solon, see. 31. - Harpocration, on the word iHvant. '24; INTRODUCTION. sufficient for them, though I Lave uot sufficient financial or statis- tical knowledge to judge of its value as compared with our pres- ent values and present standards of money-. There is a good deal said on this subject in one of the orations of Lysias, made on behalf of a wounded soldier who claimed this public bounty or pension. The orator aims to show that the plaintiff was entitled to it, though he carried on at the same time a trade by which he might be maintained. It was enough, as the speaker contends, that he was disabled in his country's service, and had to go on erntehes. We learn from an oration of 2Eschines that there was a regular examination of candidates for this bounty, and that it wa> conducted in public by the council of Five Hundred (or the Athenian Senate), — most probably by a committee appointed by that body. This is enough to show that it was a standing pro- vision, guarded by careful and judicious regulation. "Aristotle 1 describes Hippodamus, an ancient philanthropist, and one who, if what he says of him be true, would be thought an excellent philanthropist now. He proposed a great many public improvements, — among other things, the offering of rewards to inventors of anything useful to the State or to society. This man introduced a pension law, making provision for the children of those who had been wounded or slain in battle. The philosopher speaks of it as something which had not before been done; though he adds (immediately afterwards) that "such is the law now, — nut only in Atliens,but in other Grecian stat,*.' From what Aristotle says of him, this man Hippodamus, had he lived in the days of St. Peter, might have been a Cornelius: or had he heard St. Paul, might have believed, like Dionysius the Areopagite. At least so I love to think, and to indulge the idea that in those days of war and corruption and selfishness there may have been other men like him, whom the day of judgment will bring to light, — men doing good and serving God according to the measure of their knowledge. They would have belonged to the old Christian Commissions, had there been any such. His gnat worth has been obscured in the political clamor and political 1 Iu his Politico, Book II, eh. v. A GLANCE BACKWARD. 25 corruption which surrounded him, just as the Christian Commis- sion at the present day is ignored by the rabble of hungry |>< >1 it i- ciaris; but there is a record kept of such men elsewhere, and I rejoice to think that perhaps there were more of them in ancient times than we may imagine, lie seems to have been appreciated by the great philosopher, who lias left this casual mention of him, and thereby rescued him from unmerited oblivion.'' The statements and illustrations of Professor Lewis arc appli- cable, with little mollification, to the entire period of ancient history. The Romans had more organization in military affairs than the Greeks, but it is by no means certain that better care «;h taken of the men. That depended upon the personal char- acter ot' the emperor or commander. It was a law of war that the victor was absolute master of the vanquished. This pave desperation to the contest, and subjected those who were overcome to indiscriminate and universal slaughter, unless the conqueror was pleased to substitute slavery for death. 1 "The treatment of the conquered was extremely severe in ancient times. The leaders of the host were put to deatli (Josh. x. 26 ; Judg. vii. 25), with the occasional indignity of decapitation after death (1 Sam. xvii. 51). The bodies of the soldiers killed in action were plundered (1 Sam. xxxi. 8); the survivors were either killed in some savage manner (Judg. ix. 45; 2 Sam. xii. .">1 ; 2 C'hron. xxv. 12), mutilated (Judg. i. • p] in mines, with the melancholy distinction bestowed "ti princes and warriors, — aftei appearing in the triumphal procession of the conqueror, — ol being conducted to death. The contemplation of such scenes as these forces oil us this awful reflec- tion, that neither the fury of wild beasts, the concussions of the earth nor the boI tempests, are to be compared to the ravages ot aim-: and that natnre in her utmost extent, or, more properly, divine justice in its utmost severity, has l ii" enemy t.. man so terrible a- man."— Robert Hall's Sermon Si • on War. i 26 INTRODUCTION. (2 Kings viii. 12; Isa. xiii. 16; Hos. x. 14; Nah. iii. 10); but it was more usual to retain the maidens as concubines or servants (Judg. v. 30 : 2 Kings v. 2)." 1 " In the case of war carried on for conquest or revenge there were but two modes of dealing with the captives, -viz., putting them to death or reducing them to slavery."- The Jewish laws and usages of war, as to the slaughter and enslavement of captives and prisoners, were less severe than those of contemporary nations, or of the Greeks and Romans. "That the vanquished in war become the property of the victors," says Aristotle, "is acknowledged to be law." 1 A recent writer says, that in the Roman armies the soldiers were accustomed to assist each other in their sicknesses and wounds; and thai the Emperor Aurelian (\. i>. 27(>), according to Flavins Vopiscus, commanded this practice by a special proclamation, and continually urged its observance upon his subordinate officers.* The following clear summary may he presented at this point: — " Military surgery was formerly but little understood, and those who were wounded on the field were left to the care of those around them, without any selection of tit or unfit persons for the duties of surgery. The wounded soldier had to implore the aid of friends or strangers, as the case might be, or go unheeded because no one could attend to him. Still, it often happened that from habit and necessity some persons became more or less skill- ful in dressing wounds on the field : and as in former times, before the invention of gunpowder, the common run of wounds was made by swords, daggers, and sharp instruments, or by dull weapons causing contusions, no greai skill was necessary to dress such wounds, and hence little attention was paid to the medical or surgical requirements of the army.'"' During the Middle Ages, while the Roman Empire was bring 1 Smith's Dictionary of the Bible, word M a Ibid., -word Slave. 'See Smith's Dictionary of Greek and " Intiquitiss, wor3 Serous; also Writings of Professor B. B. Edwards, Vol; II. s eery. i La < ; ■ ■ sur 1es Champs de Eaiaille. Paris, 1S65. See page 93. 5 New American Cyclopedia, word Ambulance. A GLANCE BACKWARD. 27 broken up, and the modern nations of Europe were being con- structed from tin' ruins, society was in a chaotic state. Wars, petty or large, were universally and continually prevalent. Ir- ruptions of barbarians, contests of rival and envious kings or feudal chiefs, the attempted and often successful subjugation of bated "heretics" by so-called "holy alliances," the crusades, — all these tilled the earth with turmoil and desolation. Chris- tianity had little direct influence in the management of political affairs, and though its name was often invoked its power was seldom manifest in the struggles for empire and dominion. War was the pastime of the noble and the trade of the peasant, until the armies of Europe became hands of mercenaries led by adven- turers, often fighting against their native country. 1 In the rampant disorder, rivalry, and greed, " discipline as a science had almost disappeared. It is not remarkable that with all other organizations the medical department should have fallen into decay. The fate of the sick and wounded was hardly better than that of prisoners.} those who could not crawl from the field were generally put to the sword by the victorious army, whose own wounded did not experience a much better fate." .... "The Abbe Suger, State Minister ami historian of Louis the Fat, in the eleventh and twelfth centuries, says that 'as many as possible of the wounded were carried oil' in litters; those who could not he removed were left as a prey to the wolves.'" 2 1 "The command of money was tin- command of armed hirelings, more sure and steady in battle, as we must confess with shame, than the patriot citizen.*' "The use of mercenary troops prevailed much in Germany during the thirteenth century. In Italy it was also very common; though its general adoption is to be referred to the commencement of the succeeding age." — Hallam's Middle Ages, Ch. II, Part ii. "The long duration of the Italian wars that commenced with the invasion of '. ii' -. brought a species of troops into the field that must have been formidable enough t<> the countries in which they fought, whatever they may have been to the enemies against whom they contended. These were the so-called ot volunteenj, -adventurers, in fact, who look the field in bands, under leaders of ilteir own election, and served without pay, satisfied with the booty-they could collect." — Biographies of Eminent S ■. i>j Major-l i il John Mitchell. Edited by I ahard Schmitz. London, L865. See page 331. '-'.!>■„ tml, Aug. 6, 186 I. 28 INTRODUCTION. There were occasional and slight gleams through the general darkness of the scene, — incidental and temporary alleviations of the prevalent rapacity, cruelty, and neglect. The indirect influ- ence of Christianity, however corrupt and weakened, was con- siderable, and it was often successful in securing consideration for the common people, and in mitigating the horrors of war. Chivalry did something in the same direction, and there are noble instances on record of individual efforts for the help of the help- less, including the victims of war. Leo VI, Emperor of the East, toward the end of the ninth century, gave instructions to his generals to provide assistants for the removal and care of the wounded, after an engagement. A reward was given to them for each warrior they saved. These assistants were soldiers selected from the several cohorts, were not armed, in the movements of the army they occupied conve- nient places for their work, and were furnished with simple means for the immediate relief of those who became disabled. The famous sultan Saladin (a. d. 1190), whose magnanimity and valor are alike extolled, is said by the historians of the crusades to have shown a generosity toward the wounded of his enemies, worthy of a Christian prince in modern times. The charitable orders of the Roman Catholic Church, ready to minister to suffering anywhere, were frequently employed in the care of soldiers. Women, sometimes of noble birth, gave themselves to lives of benevolence and activity among the needy and afflicted. Several of the Sisterhoods still in existence had their origin thus, as, for example, those which began with some of the followers of Vincent de Paul.' The " convents were expected to take charge of the sick and wounded who could reach their gates. At one time every convent in the kingdom (of France) was bound, indeed, to maintain an invalid soldier." 5 The military orders or Knights gave themselves, more or less, to the same service, — at least among their own members. The 1 See Mrs. Jameson's Sisters of Charity; J. M. Ludlow's Woman's Work in the Church; Chattel's Charity of the Primitive Churches. 2 General Mitchell's Eminent Soldiers, p. 336. A GLANCE BACKWARD. 29 Knights Templars and the Knights Hospitallers (or Knights of St John of Jerusalem, afterwards of Rhodes and of Alalia) were, according to Milnian,. " aristocratic brotherhoods, which hardly deigned to receive, at least in their high |>lacc>, any but those of gentle birth." 1 But their chivalry manifested itself in the care of the sick and wounded, during the pilgrimages and in the con- tests with the infidels. 5 It is moreover a singular historical fact, that the kingdom of Prussia had its origin in a voluntary asso- ciation of patriotic citizens for the relief of suffering soldiers. During the crusade against Saladin, in which Frederick Barba- rossa, Emperor of Germany, was drowned,and his death followed by great disaster, the army was wasting away with disease and famine before Acre, in Syria (a. d. 1190). Certain of the first citizens of Lubeck and Bremen, merchant traders, saw the dis- tresses of their countrymen. They at once formed themselves into a relief corps. The sails of their ships were taken off, and made into tents and pavilions, under the shelter of which they received and cared for the sick. They were joined and assisted by the brethren of a German hospital, which had been before founded in Jerusalem. From this beginning arose the German in- Teutonic Order of Knights, — known as the Teutonic Order dl' St. Mary. Their first house was at Acre. They soon became as aristocratic and exclusive as the other military orders, — save that, in remembrance of their origin, the citizens of Lubeck ami Bremen were eligible to membership. No other plebeians were admitted. In process of time, through the favor of popes and princes, and by their own good swords, the Teutonic Knights became sovereigns of Prussia. 3 1 Milmsra'a Latin Christianity, Riverside ed., Vol. VI, p. 535. 2 A private letter from Mr. J. M. Ludlow contains the suggestion, that " ai the original duties of the Hospitallers of St. John was that of succoring the sick and wounded "n the pilgrimage to the Holy Land, and afterwards in the wars against (he heathen." Also that the Sisters of Charity "were Bent to the French armies ;a i mparatively early period oi their existence] and (with probably an interval during tlie First Revolution) have continued to beemployed in thera nee." "ii the Erst point see Chariti Internationale, p. 116; Marmont's oj Military Institutions, Coppee's ed., p. 132. :: President Anderson, of the University ol I: culled attention to this 30 INTRODUCTION. The introduction of gunpowder, in the thirteenth century, wrought a great revolution in everything pertaining to warfare, and inaugurated vast changes in the political and social world. 1 The necessity of discipline and military tactics very soon became apparent. Skill and intelligence took the place of brute force among the requisites of a good soldier. War became a profession, in a higher sense of the term. The modern ideas of national unity and international interests began to work, however dimly and feebly. The common soldier began to be recognized as a man, entitled to consideration and care, and self-interest combined with humanity to compel such recognition. It was truer economy to care for the trained soldier than to allow him to perish from neglect. 2 All those influences which wrought the destruction of feudalism, abolished slavery, liberated the serfs, created a middle class in society, diffused intelligence, and purified religion, ope- rated also to elevate the position of the soldier, and this elevation was manifest in the attention to his welfare when sick or wounded. The progress was slow, and there were many eddies and ebbs historical curiosity, and transmitted an interesting note from Roux de RocheJle's work on the Hanseatic League, which has been, in substance, incorporated into the text. See also the account in Milman's Latin Christianity, Vol. VI. p. 535. 1 These changes were slow at first. It was two hundred years from the time that gunpowder was known in Europe before firearms were employed in battle with any effect. Even then we read of muskets that, it required a quarter of an hour to charge and fire, and that had to be supported upon rests. See Hallam'B Middle Ages, ch. 3. There was a strong professional prejudice amongst military leaders against the new agent of destruction. It was of decidedly democratic tendencies, and threatened to destroy all distinctions of rank: — making it quite possible that the feudal lord, or even the emperor, might fall by the bullet of the peasant. Sometimes, as in wars between Europeans and Turks, the old and new modes of warfare came into competition, and not always to the success of the new. See Mitchell's Biographies, pp. 20S, 240, etc. 2 To quote a modern instance: When the British troops were suffering in the Crimea, the correspondent of The London Times wrote from Balaklava, " What has been the cost to the country of the men of the Brigade of Guards who died in their tents or in hospital of exhaustion, overwork, and deficient or improper nutri- ment? It would have been cheap to have fed these men who are gone on turtle and venison, if it could have kept them alive, and not only those, but the poor fellows whom the battle spared, but whom disease has taken from us out of every regiment in the expedition."— The War, by W. H. Russell, p. 346. A GLANCE BACKWARD. 31 in the current, but cm the whole the advance has been ((in- stant. The wounds produced by firearms were more serious and com- plicated than by the old style of missiles, requiring more surgical skill to manage them and more prompt attention to prevent them from endangering the life of the soldier. But we find no trace of a regularly organized system of military hospitals until the time of Henry IV, of France, in the latter part of the sixteenth cen- tury. The system then introduced was very imperfect, and received little or no improvement before the end of the eighteenth century. The first flying ambulance (or flying hospital) was established by Larrcy, in the army of Custine, in 1702.' A pleasant incident is told of the Catholic Queen Isabella of Spain, that during the siege of Granada (a. d. 14!>2) she caused six large tents to be fitted up with beds, and called for surgeons and physicians to assist the wounded and sick. The soldiers of Aragon and Castile gave to this establishment, the first of its kind, the name of the "Queen's Hospital." 2 Toward the middle and during the latter part of the eighteenth century, the care of the sick and wounded was sometimes made the subject of specific stipulations between the commanders of opposing armies. Several instances of this kind are on record, — as in 174:> between the parties to the war of the Austrian Succes- sion ; in 1759 between England and France, in Flanders ; in the same year between Louis XV of France and Frederick the < rreat of Prussia; in 1800 between the French and Austrians. These instances are more fully related in !.<< Cliarite TvierMrfMtwAe. As illustrating them all, the agreement last referred to may he given. During the war which raged for a long time in the valley of the Danube, it was agreed between the French General Moreau and the Austrian General Kray that the wounded should lie cared for by both sides, and that after their recovery they should he returned freely to their respective corps. The following arti- 1 -V.«- Am. c>/r.. word Ambulance; La Chariti Internationale, p. 95 ; Mitchell's Biographies, p. 336. 5 La Chariti, p. 94. 32 INTRODUCTION. cles, suggested to Moreau by his surgeon-in-chief, the illustrious Percy, were adopted as a basis of mutual action : — " Wishing to diminish as much as possible the misfortunes of war and to ameliorate the condition of soldiers wounded in battle, the two Generals have agreed upon these points : " 1st. The hospitals shall be considered as sacred asylums. " 2d. The location of the hospitals shall be plainly indicated, so that the soldiers may readily recognize them. " 3d. Each army is charged with the care of these hospitals, even alter having lost the country in which they are situated. " 4th. The armies will favor and protect, mutually, the service of the hospitals in the countries which they shall occupy. " 5th. The soldiers, when recovered, shall be sent back to their respective armies with escort and safeguard." The following interesting account of Percy's endeavor to estab- lish a permanent relief corps in the French army, cited from La (litti-itr, will show the spirit of the noble man and devoted sur- geon. " Worn out," he says, " with the disorders springing up continually from the disgusting assemblage of famished and vaga- bond nurses; disheartened by the neglect of my requests; sorely grieved at seeing so great a number of soldiers die upon the fields of battle, whose lives might have been saved and whose limbs might have been preserved by the aid of some convenient and well-organized method of transportation, and seeing also that it was necessary to have, as near as possible to the lines of battle, men expressly designated for the relief of the wounded, rather than leave this care to the soldiers (who too often seized such an opportunity to desert the ranks), 1 took it upon me to organize a regular corps of soldier-nurses, to whom I gave the name of t lie 'Corps of Stretcher-Bearers' [Compagnie de Braneardiers). I chose one hundred soldiers from among the most courageous, strongest, and most skillful. I had them uniformed, and as soon as they were completely equipped I put them at work. Very soon the condition of the wounded and sick, before so uesrlected and abandoned, was entirely changed. " Every one applauded my institution," adds Percy. " I made A GLANCE BACKWARD. 33 a report to the authorities of the success obtained and of services rendered. From Madrid, where I then was, I sent to Paris, as a specimen and proof of the work, a detachment of this new kind of troop, — which I had clothed and equipped without a penny ? s expense to the government. But instead of thanking me, they blamed me. My squad was ordered to return forthwith to Mad- rid, and the company was disbanded. Fortunately it had existed Ion- enough to open the eyes of the chief men of the State, and ray project, postponed from political considerations, was definitely adopted by a decree of 1813." As further indicating the growing spirit of humanity and dis- cipline, it is stated that in May, 1809, when the French army, by the retreat from Oporto, was forced to leave its wounded. Sir Arthur Wellesley, afterwards Duke of Wellington, commander- in-chief of the English and Portuguese forces, asked the French to send surgeons to take care of their abandoned sick. lie granted safe conducts for the coming and returning of the physi- cians who were chosen for this purpose. During the war of the American Revolution, it does not appear that in ii- arrangements tin- the care and comfort of the soldiers our army was at all in advance of the armies of Europe at the same period. It is perhaps impossible to convey a just impres- sion of all the tacts respecting that wonderful ( test. The phy- sical dimensions of the war, excepting its duration, were so small when compared with its political importance or with our recent armies; the patriotic wisdom and devotion of Washington and hi- worthy coadjutors were so constant and admirable; there Were so much military genius and genuine soldiership displayed; in maintaining the conflict so long 1 and so successfully against a foe thoroughly trained, equipped, and fed; there was so much of the loftiest heroism in the army and among all classes of the people; and especially the results were so fruitful in national prosperity ; — that oui- traditions have instinctively rejected all that il is ungrateful or humiliating to remember, and we are unwilling or unable to recall the apathy, shortsightedness, dissensions, delays. 34 INTRODUCTION. jealousies, and cruel neglect, thai were abundantly exhibited, alike in Congress, the army, and the country. Only the goodness of God and the blindness of our enemies saved us from destruction, and that not once nor twice. The entire population of the coun- try (3,929,827 in 1790) was at that time scarcely more than the population of the State of New York at present (3, 831, 777 in 1865). The whole number of Continental soldiers employed during the war was 231,791. The enlistments were mainly for short periods, and the war was halt' over before anything worthy the name of discipline had been established among the troops. This is not the place to detail the causes which led to the priva- tions and sufferings of the army of the Revolution. " It is diffi- cult to speak of their sufferings ami privations without at leasl an appearance of exaggeration ; and vet the testimony is so uniform, the details are so minute and so authentic, that the strongesl coloring would tall short oi' the dark reality. These sufferings began with the beginning of the war and continued to tin' end of it. During the first winter, soldiers thought it hard that they often had nothing to cook their food with; but they found before its close that it was harder still to have nothing to cook. Few Americans had ever known what it was to suffer for want of clothing: hut thousands, as the war went on, saw their garments falling- by piecemeal from around them, till scarce a shred re- mained to cover their nakedness. They made long marches without shoes, staining the fro/en ground with the blood from their feet. They fought battles with guns that were hardly safe to hear a half-charge of powder. They fought, or marched, or worked on intrenchments all day, and laid them down at night with hut one blanket to three men. And thus in rags, without shoes, often without bread, they fought battles and won campaigns The condition of the officers was scarcely better than that of the men. They, too, had suffered cold and hunger; they. to,., had been compelled to do duty without sufficient clothing: to march and watch and fight without sufficient food. We are told of a dinner at which no officer was admitted who had a whole pair of panta- A GLANCE BACKWARD. '■'>■') Loons ; and of all the invited there was not one who did no( fully establish his claims to admission." 1 We are familiar, or may easily he, with the want ami sufferings of the Continental soldiers at Cambridge, West Point, Morris- town, Valley Forge, and elsewhere, during successive winters of greal severity. Let ns recall, as an example, the condition of the army at Valley Forge, in the winter of 1777-'s. The whole number of troops when the encampment commenced, in Decem- ber, was 11,098 ; of these, L'.SIIS were unfit for duty. "Hunger and nakedness assailed that dreary winter camp with all their progeny of disease and woe. Thither the soldiers came with naked and bleeding feet, and there they sat down where destitu- tion held court, and ruled with an icy sceptre. The prevalence of Toryism in the vicinity, the avaricious peculations of some unprincipled commissioners, the tardy movements of Congress in supplying provisions, and the close proximity of a powerful enemy, combined to make the procurement of provisions abso- lutely impracticable without a resort to force, lint few torses were in camp, and such was the deficiency, in this respect, for the ordinary as well as the extraordinary occasions of the army, that the men in many instances cheerfully yoked themselves to vehi- cles of their own construction, for carrying wood and provision- when procured; while others performed the duty of pack horse-, and carried heavy burdens of fuel upon their backs. As the win- ter advanced, their sufferings increased. On the 16th of February, Washington wrote to Governor Clinton, ' For someday- pasl there has been little less than a famine in the camp. A part of the army has been a week without any kind of flesh, and tin- rest three or four days, 5 'It was with great difficulty,' says Dr. Thacher, • that mon enough could he found in a condition tit to discharge the military camp duties from day to day; and for this purpose those who were naked borrowed from those who had clothes.'" While tin' soldiers at Valley Forge were suffering thus in- ' Historical View of '■■■■ I F H Greene, 237. Book of ih, :: i, Vol. II. pp. 129, oG INTRODUCTION. tensely, Gen. Putnam gives this picture, in a lew words, of what those at West Point were enduring; It is in a letter to Wash- ington, written in January, 1778. He says, "Dubois's regiment is unfit to be ordered on duty, there not being one blanket in the regiment. Very few have either a shoe or a shirt, and most of them have neither stockings, breeches, or overalls. Several com- panies of enlisted artificers are in the same situation, and unable to work in the field." 1 Even in the earlier enthusiasm of 1775, when the little army lav at ( 'ambridire and the English were in Boston, the condition of the troops was hardly more comfortable. Mr. Greene, in his ■Historical View, p. 224, says: — " As winter advanced their suffer- ings increased. They suffered from want of clothing, and still more from want of wood. Trees were cut down, fences pulled up, everything that could be made to burn was converted into fuel ; and still, hundreds were compelled to eat their food raw. And to complete the picture, I must reluctantly add that those who had wood, or clothing, or provisions to sell, asked the highesl prices and demanded the promptest payment." There was no adequate provision by government for the care of the soldiers in active service, as is obvious from the foregoing statements. It must have been worse with the sick and disabled. There was no organization of voluntary relief and assistance commensurate with the necessities of the case. There was much noble patriotism, hearty sympathy and readiness to share every comfort with those who were perilling everything and enduring everything for the country. Temporary relief in clothing and food was frequently provided, especially through the labors of patriotic ladies, and the clergy were constant in their cooperation at home and in their ministrations among the troops. Mr. Loss- ing, in a private letter, says, — "In the OKI War for Indepen- dence the women in many communities had gatherings, often at the house of a pastor, to work tin- the needy soldiers. In Phila- delphia and in Baltimore were many noble examples of the kind, in the later years of the war." i Los-ling's Field Book, Vol. I, p. 705, note. A GLANCE BACKWARD. 37 A few illustrations may be given of the spontaneous and generous assistance to which Mr. Lossing refers. "In the summer of 1780 the distress of the American army was very great, on account of the scarcity of clothing, and the inade- quate means possessed by the commissary departmenl to afford a. supply. The generous sympathies of the ladies of Philadelphia were aroused, and they formed an association for the purpose of affording relief to the | r soldiers. Never was the energy of genuine sympathy more nobly exercised than by the patriotic women who joined hands in this holy endeavor. Mrs. Esther Reed, the wife of Gen. Joseph Reed, though feeble in health and surrounded by family cares, entered with hearty zeal into the service, and was, by the united voice of her associates, placed at the head of the society. Mrs. Sarah Bache, daughter of Dr. Franklin, was also a conspicuous actor in the formation of the association, and in carrying out its plans. All classes became interested, and the result was glorious. The Marquis De Chas- tellux, who was in Philadelphia while these efforts were in pro- gress, was delighted with the event. In describing a vi-it to several of the American ladies, he says, 'We began with Mrs. Bache. She merits all the anxiety we hail to see her, for she is the daughter of Mr. Franklin. Simple in her manners, like her respectable father, she possesses his benevolence. She conducted us into a room tilled with work lately finished l>v the ladies of Philadelphia. This work consisted neither of embroidered tambour waistcoats, nor net-work edgings, nor of gold and silver brocade. li was a quantity of shirts lor the soldier- of Pennsylvania. The ladies bought the linen from their own private purses, and tool; a pleasure in cutting them out and sewing them themselves. < In each shirt was the name of the married or unmarried lady who made it, and they amounted to twenty-two hundred.' The results of this effort were great and timely. The aggregate amount of contributions in the city and county of Philadelphia was estimated at seven thousand five hundred dollars in specie value. Added to this was a princely donation from Robert Morris of the contents of a ship fully laden with military -tores 38 INTRODUCTION. and clothing, which had unexpectedly arrived. During the cold winter which followed, hundreds of poor soldiers in Washington's camp had occasion to bless the women of Philadelphia for their labor of love.'" It is related of La Fayette that on a certain occasion as he " passed through Baltimore on his way to the field of his conflicts at the South, lie was greeted with the greatest respect by the people. A ball was given in his honor, at which the marquis appeared sad. ' Why so gloomy at a ball?' asked one of the gay belles. ' 1 cannot enjoy the gayety of the scene,' replied La Fayette. ' while so many of the poor soldiers are without shirts and other necessaries.' ' We will supply them,' was the noble reply of the ladies; and the gayety of the ball room was ex- changed tor the sober but earnest services of the needle. They assembled the next day in great numbers to make up clothing for the soldiers, of materials furnished by fathers and husbands. One gentleman, out of his limited means, gave La Fayette five hundred dollars to aid him in clothing his soldiers. His wife, with her own hands, cut out five hundred >pairs of pantaloons, and superintended the making of theni." 2 These instances show the spirit and readiness of the loyal women of the Revolution, whose patriotism, sacrifice, and endur- ance, deserve all praise. 3 They were worthy mothers of those whose tender and active sympathies did so much during the recent war for the Union. It is also seen what might have been done 1 Lossing's Field Boo!;. Vol. II, pp. 105-107. 2 Field Book, Vol. II. p. 187. Mr. Lossing adds, " This gentleman's name was Poe. His widow, the lady who cut out the garments, was living when La Fayette visited Baltimore in 1824. The two patriots met, and the scene was one of pecu- liar interest." 3 Gen. Washington eould write to the ladies of Philadelphia, after their timely benefactions to the army in 17S0: — "The army ought not to regret its sacrifices or its sufferings, when they meet with so flattering a reward as in the sympathy "I your sex; nor can it fear that its interests will be neglected, when espoused by advocates as powerful as they are amiable." See Frank B. Goodrich's Tribute Book, p. 24. The munificent contributions there recorded by Mr. Goodrich cer- tainly indicate, as he suggests, that the men were not less patriotic and liberal than the women. A GLANCE BACKWARD. 39 if there had been a strong feeling of nationality throughoul the country, and some systematized way of manifesting it in the popular support of the army. But the time for these things had not j et come. Nor was there any lack of religious feeling and activity among the defenders of American liberty. New England especially had been colonized from religious motives and for religious purposes. The pulpit was the great educator of the people, and had taught them to demand, as it had prepared them to Use, eivil and reli- gious freedom. Mr. Thornton justly says, "To the pulpit, the Puritan pulpit, we owe the moral force which won our Revolu- tion." 1 And so, in the scenes of actual war, none were more zealous or useful than the pastors and volunteer chaplains. They preached and prayed among the troops, they nursed the sick and wounded, they encouraged the people to efforts for the relief of the army, and served iii many ways to carry the quickening in- fluences of home into the camp. Speaking of the Massachi militia, Mr. Greene says, " Their drill was a social and religious exercise, followed almost always by a sermon and sometimes by a banquet. . . . The minister descended from the pulpit to take his place at the head of his company or even in the ranks. In the company of minute-men of Danvers the deacon was cap- tain and the minister lieutenant; for none in those days si to doubt that duty to God comprised duty to the State." 2 Valuable as these memorials are, representing various parts of the country, and illuminating however dimly the times and cir- cumstances in which our national Life began, they do not indicate any special advance in thought fulness and care for those who were enduring privation and peril in the nation's defense, nor any special effort to mitigate the inevitable sufferings of war. Indeed much of the neglect, from which the army of the Revo- lution Buffered in so many ways, must be traced to a widely prevalent jealousy of the military power, — a liar that the sol- ' Pulpit of the America R Ml, page 3S. -' 11 i i v), pp. :'l l. 215. 40 INTRODUCTION. diers might become too strong for the safety and peace of the Republic. What was true of the Revolutionary war was true also in a general way of the war of 1812. The popular interest was much less, as was also the need of voluntary assistance. There was the same want of systematic cooperation, and the same readiness for temporary relief when any special appeal was made. In the private letter already quoted, Mr. Lossing says, "In the city of Xew York an association was formed for the purpose of knitting .-neks and producing other comforts, for the soldiers who were to encounter the rigors of a Canadian, winter in 1813— '14. Mrs. Gen. Morgan Lewis was at the head of it." During the war in Mexico, in 1846-'7, the American Tract Society engaged somewhat in colporteur labors and the distribu- tion of publications, in the city of Xew Orleans, among the sol- diers on their way to and from the seat of war. " Large cases of 1 looks and tracts were also sent forward with the army into Mexico, and circulated there with cheering results." The conclusion to which our review thus far brings us cannot be better stated than in the words of the noble English woman who is best fitted, by her ample knowledge and practical experi- ence, to pronounce a judgment in the ease. In a private letter, under date of February 23d, 1866, Miss Florence Nightingale writes, " Until of late years then' has been no systematic atten- tion paid to the sick and wounded, such as has been done for healthy soldiers. Any system which has been introduced at any lime has been simply improvised to meet a present emergency. i am not aware of any instance in which the miseries and horrors of military hospitals during war have been alleviated, by private and extra-governmental organization, anterior to the last war with Russia. During all former wars, so far as I have been able to learn, there have been no attempts at organized private relief. There have doubtless been multitudes of instances in which < hri.-tian philanthropy has led private persons to receive sick and wounded men into their houses, and to tend to them as if they A GLANCE BACKWARD. 41 were at home. Members of religious orders have at all times attended sick and wounded in hospitals. These cases throw a gleam of comfort over the most harrowing details of campaigns, lint, as I have said, there lias been no organization specially devoted to tins purpose." ' 1 In tin' summer of 1866, the Christian Commission sent to Miss Nightingale, by the hand of Rev. T. W. J. Wylie, d. d. of Philadelphia, bound volumes of their Annual Reports and other Documents at thai time published. Tin' Commission was glad of the occasion i" say, in sending (In' volumes, " We are prompted to this offering, uol simply because of your well-known interest in our . truggle, l, m because your own labors were an impulse ami guide t" those herein recorded. Your influence ami cur indebtedness to you in this work can never be known. < inly this is tni''. that everywhere throughout our broad country, during these j ars of inventive ami ear I benevoli ace, in the constant endeavors i" su ■ ami sustain our imperilled ami heroic defenders, the name ami work of Florence \ i :ln Mr' il.' lia v ,■ l n an encouragement ami an inspiration." Immediately on receiving tin' volumes, Miss Nightingale sent the subjoined mite to Dr. Wylie : — i Street, Park L ine, I joxnos, W., Sept'. 6, 1865. i i ii Street, 1' irk L ine, Lo Tin; Rev. T. W. .1. Wylie, d.d. — My Dear sir: I know not how to thank you for bringing, or the U. S. Christian Commission lor sending, me the two Annua] Reports, etc., which I received yesterday. I know not how to thank you all for lin- kind thought of me. All that 1 can say in return, is t" express my admiration for the branch of the great work of alleviating human suffering which those reports disclose. In the history of our lime nothing more remarkable has occurred than the universal uprising, so t" speak, of tin- Christian philanthropy of America, t" lend its helping ha ml in tin- great struggle through which the country has pas ed. [f is a new feature in the experience of humanity, ami it is an inexpressible comfort tn have been in any the least degree instrumental in forwarding so great a work. I could not help reading through the volume of Reports the first afternoon 1 received it, though suffering from wearing and increasing Illness, fr bereave ment, a helmed with business. It is, at such a time, the only thing I a. mlil have read, ami I read it with tears in my eyes, — of sympathy, ot reverence, nil admiration. I must trusl to your kindness i ake my acknowledgments t" tin- United States Chrisl in Commi iion in tin' first place- Hut I shall, of eour e, as soon as I am a iih\ ■an 1 1 m vnr to write them some feeble expression of what I felt when I received In'i. Pray [ear sir, my weak words to mean the deep and strong feeling of respectful love with which our sister country, listei in e deepi i si u than that 6 42 INTRODUCTION. We come now to a new era in the history of beiievolence, — the organization of relief for sick and wounded soldiers. What- ever had been dune hitherto in this direction was the result of temporary appeal to meet a special and pressing want. There had been in no nation any recognition of the army otherwise than as a machine of the government, to be cared for by the govern- ment or not cared for at all. It had never been, in any general sense, regarded as a company of citizens, — fathers, sons, and brothers, — engaged in the peril and horror of war for the nation's honor, or for the peace and safety of the homes they represented. Hence there was felt no necessity or desire for attesting the popu- lar sympathy and interest, by permanent and organized assistance fur the army directly from the people. Indeed by those who gave to the "problem of misery " the most earnest study, and sought to apply the alleviations of Christianity to every form of suffering, the physical and moral necessities of the army were expressly excluded from the objects of popular benevolence. The prize essay of Chaste], perhaps the best treatise extant on the subject of charity, has this defect. After a careful and thorough survey of the entire history of charity, he gathers its lessons into an appeal for public and private benevolence, — personal and col- lective, as by particular religious societies and by many of these combined, — to meet all eases of need in individuals and families, and for disabled classes, as orphans, foundlings, blind, etc., etc. But he makes this notable exception: — "We except military hospitals, tlie support of which belongs to the State alone. It is but just that it should provide at its own expense for those who exjiosc in its service their health and their life.'" But it is be- in which all Christian countries are sisters, has inspired us in the hour of her struggle and of victory. Ami pray believe me your and her devoted servant, Florence Nightingale. 1 The Charity of the Primitive Ckurches,by Rev. Stephen Chaste], of Geneva, Switzerland. Translated by G. A. Matile. Philadelphia, 1859. See page 319. It is ;i singular fact, and not very creditable, that the American translation "i this unique and admirable book It'll dead from the press, but a small part of the first edition ever finding its way into the market. A GLANCE BACKWAED. 43 coming understood thai armies and governments are alike the agencies of the people's welfare, and that it is the duty no less than the prerogative of the people to provide extra-govern- mental relief for those who fight their battles and suffer in their defense. The war of the Crimea is memorable for the labors of Miss Florence Nightingale and her associates, in relief of the sufferings of the English troops. The main facts and circumstances of that war, in which England, France, and Turkey were arrayed against Russia, are too well known to require mention. In April, 1854, the English army reached the field of hostilities, and finally left Turkey, July 28, 1856. From a variety of causes, but princi- pally from an utter want of care, — even to destitution in clothing and the absence of all proper food and nursing, — the mortality in camp and hospital soon rose to a fearful rate. There seemed to he no adequate preparation or provision for the men in any respect, and the battle-field was less destructive than hospital, transport, or encampment. It was safer to tight than to remain at rest, and Balaklava and the Alma were less terrible than Scutari. The account of privation, suffering, and death, as spread out in the various Reports of Commissions appointed by Parlia- ment, in Miss Martineau's England and Her Soldiers, and in other documents, is one of the saddest records in the history of civilization. " From June, 1854, to June, 1856, inclusive, there were received into the ( ielleral 1 lospitals on the BoSphorUS, 13,288 sick and wounded soldiers, — of whom 5,432 died. Out of this mighty host of sick, dying, and dead, fire and sword contributed only 4,161 admissions and 395 deaths, during the entire period." 1 This covers almost the entire time of the army's occupation, in- cluding the healthy as well as the unhealthy period. The aver- age strength of the English army during the campaign was about 30,000. The whole number of troops furnished, including the original quota and reinforcement-, was 94,000. In the summer and autumn of 1854 the mortality throughout the army was at the rate of more than thirty-five per centum per annum, or nearly 1 England and Hi r Soldiers, p. 195. 44 INTRODUCTION. thirty times that of Manchester, "one of the most unhealthy towns of England. " The people at home were tilled with con- sternation, and the government and the nation were startled into unwonted activity. For the saddest feature of the ease was that the suffering and death were almost wholly from preventible causes, — from scurvy and its kindred diseases; Miss Nightingale says, " For 'scorbutic disease' read ' bad food, etc.,' and you have the cause." 1 Methods of relief were at once devised. A noble fund was raised and administered through the agency of The London Times; private contributions were hastened forward in abundance ; a sanitary commission, for inspection and improve- ment, was sent out ; above all, at the suggestion of Hon. Sidney Herbert,'- then Secretary of State for War, Miss Florence Night- ingale, and under her a band of trained nurses, went to the hos- pitals at Scutari and in the Crimea. Forty nurses accompanied Miss Nightingale, and fifty followed afterward, led by Miss Stanley. What they did is known throughout the world. It is true that directly after their arrival (at Constantinople, Novem- ber 4, L854, " the eve of the battle of Inkerman"), the mortality was higher than before, — being in January, 1S.V>, at the fearful rate of over one hundred and seventeen per cent, per annum ; (that is, had the same rate of mortality continued, the entire army would have died in a little more than ten months.) But it soon began to decline and declined rapidly. Miss Nightingale was thoroughly fitted for her work, possessed of rare executive ability, was heartily sustained by the authorities at home, by the nation, and by her assistants. She had abundant extra-governmental resources at command. She gave herself wholly to the urgent service. " Often she stood for twenty hours in succession, giving direction, but she had always a kind word or a smile tor the sick, 1 Report of Sid mi/ Herbert's Commission, p. 370. 2 Sidney Herbert, afterward Lord Herbert of Lea, was English Secretary-at- War during the Crimean campaign. He died August 2, 1861. In the private letter already quoted, Miss Nightingale speaks of him as one -whose work has been the greatest in, as his death has been the most fatal loss to, the sanitary and moral progress and civilization ol' our army." A GLAXri". BACKWARD. 45 and was soon idolized by the army. No wonder that at the end of twenty months she returned to England in impaired health, ami has ever since been a confirmed invalid.' The result of all these remedial efforts in the English portion of the ( trimean army may he given in the .summary statement of .Miss Nightingale, in her testimony before the Herbert Commis- sion on the Sanitary Condition of t lie Army, etc. "We have much more information on the sanitary history of the Crimean campaign than we haveon any other. It is a complete example, — history does not afford its equaly — of an army, after a great disaster arising from neglects, having been brought into the highest state of health and efficiency. It is the whole experiment on a colossal scale. In all other examples, the last step has Keen wanting to complete the solution of the problem. We had in the first seven months of the Crimean campaign, a mortality among the troops at a rate of sixty per cent, per annum from disease alone; — a rate of mortality which exceeds that of the great plague in the population of London, and a higher ratio than the mortality in cholera to the attacks; that is to say, there died out of the army in the Crimea an animal rate greater than ordinarily die in time of pestilence out of sick. We had, during the last six months of the war, a mortality a g OUT sick not much more than that among our healtJiy guards at home, and a mortality among our troops in the last five months two-thirds only of what it is among our troops at home." ' So great a change was wrought by the introduction of sanitary- regulations in camp and hospital, by caring for tin' men whil transports, by furnishing proper clothing, food, recreation, etc., and by such attention in all the details of nursing as secured at least the opportunity to recover where recovery was possible. Means were provided ti>r reading, writing, etc.: nurses found time 1 Appli i m's .v, "■ Am. Ctyclopi '' Much interesting information res] ' i>'; Miss Nightingale and her labors may be I I in the works above quoted; also, as more accessible, in Mrs. Jameson's Sisters oj Charity, and McCormick's Visit to th Camp before Sevastoj Report, etc., p. 36J. 46 INTRODUCTION. to read to their patients, and to write their letters where necessary. The men felt the recuperative power of sympathy, and displayed the patience, self-restraint, manliness, and courtesy which were so conspicuous among our own soldiers in similar circumstances. It will be of interest here to note the general duties of Miss Nightingale's nurses, as stated by herself in her testimony before the Cumming-Maxwell Commission on the Stair of t/i<- Army Hospitals in the Crimea am! Scutari: — "The nurses are all distributed into wards. The medical men in charge of wards apply to me when they want nurses. I refer the application to the first class staff' surgeon of the division, and, with his permission, I send a nurse or nurses, of whom I have the selection. The general nature of their duties they learn from my orders. The patients to whom they are to attend are indicated to them by the medical officer; also the treatment of those patients. They are employed chiefly among the wounded, the operation cases, and the severe medical cases. Their duties among the surgical cases are to go round in the morning, to Mash and prepare such wounds for the medical officers as those officers direct, to attend the medical officers in their dressings, and receive and bring to me those officers' directions as to the diets, drinks, and medical comforts of those cases. They generally go out in fours. A quartette had generally a corridor and two wards of surgical cases. In the medical divisions the nurse's duty is to take such eases as the medical officer confides to her. Her busi- ness is chiefly to see that the food is properly cooked and properly administered, that the extra diet rolls made on me are attended to, and that cleanliness, as far as possible, of the wards and per- sons is attended to, and the bed sores dressed." 1 At first with all confusion : by and by Sweet order lived again with other laws; A kindlier influence reigned, and everywhere Lew voices. with the ministering hand, Hung round the sick. The maidens came, they talked, They sung, they read, till she net lair began To gather light, ami she that was became i Report, p. 331. A GLANCE BACKWABD. 47 tier former beauty treble; to and fro, With books, with flowers, with angel offices, Like creatures native unto gracious act, Arid in (heir own clear element they moved. 1 The religious wants of the English soldiers in the Crimea il" not seem, at the outset, to have been better supplied than their physical necessities. Col. Joshua Jebb, in his testimony before the Herbert Commission, said thai he had "always been greatly struck with the deficiency in the amount of spiritual instruction in the army," although the greal readiness of the soldiers to profil by such instruction had "always shown itself where any means had been afforded them." He regarded it as essential to the highest sanitary condition and the efficiency of the troops. lie gave statistics to show how much better provision England made for the religious and moral welfare of her criminals than of her soldiers.-' Mr. McCormick assures us that in the English camp in the Crimea, " with few exceptions, the regiments were quite destitute of chaplains, and utterly deprived of all religious men ings." 3 I!i it there is some alleviation to the general sadness of the picture, and later in the campaign, with the introduction of other sources of relief and comfort, religious advantages were multi- plied. Mr. McCormick speaks of Rev. John Hayward, the chaplain of the forces in Balaklava, and his assistant, Mr. Taylor, who maintained regular services on the Sabbath and on two t evenings in the week. They were indefatigable and efficient, especially in their labors among the sick on the ships in the harbor. Mr. D. Matheson, a Scotch colporteur and Scripture reader, scut out by the Soldiers' Friend Society, to labor among the Highland regiments, did very good service. " Possessed of a true Scotch heart, large, and full of sympathy and benevolence, he was constantly engaged in endeavoring to comfort the sick and chiiii;-. At an early hour he would leave his quarters, and start for the camp with his | kets and arms tilled with Bibles, tracts, and other religious publications, together with such a 1 Tennyson's Princess, vii. ' Report, etc., i>. 175. 3 Visit lo ' '■'■ p. 1 16. 48 INTRODUCTION. variety of little 'kniekuacks' for the temporal relief of the suffering members of his charge, as he could secure from the newly arrived vessels. He visited from tent to tent, and by his sincerity and unostentatious kindness soon became a great favorite both among the officers and men." ' Our own American Bible Society was represented in the " camp before Sevastopol," in the winter of 1854, by their agent, Rev. C. N. Righter, who was courteously and cordially received by Lord Raglan, through his Adjutant-General, J. B. Bucknall Estcourt. The troops had been provided with Bibles and Testaments at the time of their departure from England, but in the confusion of the battles and the march from Alma many copies were lost or destroyed. A fresh supply was on the way, but had not arrived, and Mr. Righter was cheered by the eager welcome that greeted him from the men among whom he distributed the Word of Life. As already intimated, under the administration of Miss Nightingale; and especially through the cooperation of Rev. Mr. Osborne and Mr. and Mrs. Braeebridge, much was done for the moral and religious welfare of the men. The French Army in the Crimea was larger than the English, numbering in all 309,268 men. It was much better furnished with sanitary and hygienic appliances. Their quartermaster and commissary departments were provided against emergencies, and from the first there was a supply of competent cooks, and an attendance of trained female nurses from among the religious orders of " Sisters." It does not appear that any extra-govern- mental aid of any kind was proffered or permitted, and hence there was no room for the manifestation of popular sympathy and appreciation. The regulations woidd not allow the agent of the American Bible Society to visit the French troops, as he had visited the English, and there seems to have been very little of religious spirit or instruction among them. It is singular to notice that the rate of mortality among the French soldiers, taking the whole period of occupation into account, was much greater than among the English, although during the early 1 Visit, etc., p. 119. A GLANCE BACKWARD. 49 months it was very much less. For the French the average of annual deaths was, from disease alone, over 300 per 1,000 of mean strength; for the English it was 252, — the English death- rate most wonderfully diminishing from the ratio of over 117 per cent, per annum in January, 1855, to less than 1J per cent, in February, 185(3.' This difference is not, in all respects, satisfac- torily explained. But it cannot he regarded as presumptuous to suppose that the unparalleled exhibition of popular appreciation, not less than the unwonted attention and care which accompanied it, did much toward raising the health of the English troops. The thought that they were at last remembered at home, helped to ward off disease and to quicken recovery. The tender sympa- thy of the Queen, so tenderly expressed, 2 the assuring smile of Miss Nightingale, and the lavish expenditure in providing Chris- tian ministration for body and soul, saved many an heroic life, and proved the most precious sanitary agents. There does not 1 To estimate the significance of these figures, as bearing upon the rate of mor- tality in the army, two things are requisite: — 1st. To compare them with the ordinary death rates of settled communities; 2d. To remember that an army is composed of picked men, who, from the care taken in their selection and from the fact that they are in the prime of life, should show a much less mortality from disease than exists in ordinary communities, which include the young, the aged, and the invalid of all classes. To aid in the comparison suggested it may be re- marked that from the latest and most careful statistics it appears that the annual death rate in the United States, England, and France, is slightly in exe. 5 oi ' per cent.: — that is. twenty-two persons die annually in each thousand of the inhabitants. - The following letter, so worthy of a Christian queen, is worthy also of preser- vation here. It was addressed to her War Secretary. Hon. Sidney Herbert: — "Windsor Castle, Dec. 6, 1854. •• Would you tell Mrs. Herbert that I bogged she would lei me see frequently the accounts she receives from Miss Nightingale or Mrs. Bracebridge, as I bear no details of the wounded, though I see so many officers, etc., aboul the battle field; and naturally the former must interest me more than any one. Let Mrs. Herbei I know also thai I wish Miss Nightingale and the ladies would tell these p •, aoble, wounded, and sick men. that no one takes a wanner interest, or feels i ■•■ for their sufferings, or admires their courage and heroism more, than their Queen. hay and night she thinks of her beloved troops. So does the Pril Bi ■ Mrs. Herbert to communicate these my words to those ladies, as I know that our -\ m- pathy is much valued by those noble fellows. \ [i roaiA." 7 50 INTRODUCTION. seem to have been any such manifestation of popular feeling toward the French soldiers, and very little if any unofficial Chris- tian care. It is not improbable that this contributed to their more rapid destruction by the terrible machinery of war. These views, as respects the French troops, are confirmed by two articles, of great interest and value, in the Revue t 'hre'tienne 1 for September and October, 1 865, by Dr. de Valcourt, on the " Sanitary Condition of the Annies engaged in the Great Contem- porary "Wars," — having special reference to the Crimean war, the campaign of France and Sardinia against Austria in 1859, and the American Rebellion. The principal French authority quoted is Dr. Chenu. After detailing the great suffering of the French in the Crimea, in camp and in hospital, from freezing, fever, and scurvy, and suitably noticing the devotion of the Sisters of Charity to their sick and wounded patients, — (thirty- one of these heroic women, during the campaign, died at their posts of duty), — Dr. de Valcourt says, " At the beginning of the war, the English sick were not so well cared for as our own, but subsequently their hospital service was greatly improved. Their ambulances 2 in the Crimea were admirably adapted for service. Their hospital-transports were arranged with great care for the removal of the sick. In the harbor of Balaklava, M. Baudens visited an English steam-frigate fitted up as an hospital, contain- ing; three hundred beds, where comfort was carried to such an extent that they had on board three or four cows. AVise hygienic arrangements, joined to select diet, had such success in the Eng- lish hospitals that typhus fever did not spread in them alter 1855. All this improvement was due to the devotedness of the physi- cians and the female nurses. Miss Nightingale was able greatly 1 Some unknown friend most kindly forwarded these copies of the Revue from Paris. 2 An Ambulance in the French army, as the reader will have noticed, is what we should now call a Ftying-3p3pital,—a portable hospital, that is. one of which at least is attached to each division of an army in the field, moving with the troops, and provided with all the requisites for the immediate succor of the sick and wounded. As applied to a wagon or cart for carrying the disabled, the use of the term Ambulance is quite recent. A GLANCE BACKWARD. 51 to extend her benevolent work, — thanks to the voluntary gifts collected in England, — so thai she could supply her patients with what they needed, and could introduce into all the estab- lishments she visited a degree ofc fori that yielded friiit in the speedy improvement of the sick. Unfortunately it was not so with the voluntary offerings collected in France. Instead of being distributed by a special and independent committee, they were given to the government, and thus combined and mixed up with the governmental supplies. This result was doubly unfor- tunate, for the sick were not only deprived of the additional re- lief which would have been so useful, but the donors, not knowing how their money was expended, were discouraged, and ceased to aid our valiant army. ■• In the midst of these difficulties of all kinds," continues Dr. de Yaleourt, "occasioned by a war so protracted and eight hun- dred leagues from the mother country, the government did all that it was possible to do. 1 Even to furnish the necessaries for an army of 150,000 men, so far from the place of production, was a very heavy task. Our soldiers accomplished prodigies of hero- ism and courage. <>nr physicians pushed devotion and self- sacrifice so far that, refusing all repose, contagion made frightful ravage among them; — those who were attached to the ambu- lances and hospitals lost one-fourth of their effective force. That which was wanting in our armies was a Volunteer Corps, capable and well instructed, who, aided by gifts from the whole people, could have been present with their assistance and relief when' the eubrts of the government and of the medical corps were found insufficient ; — to supply, in a word, unforeseen necessities, and to give to our sick soldiers that help which the government, as such, could not accord to them." The Russians suffered more than either English or French. The medical service was lamentably inadequate to the demand upon it. The ladies of St. Petersburg and other cities were not 1 A Paris correspondent of TheNem York Tribune, writing under date of June 29, l s "'>. Bays that during tin- last year of the Crimean war. "Prem hospital directors asked and largely reeeived hospital stores from the English." 52 INTRODUCTION. wanting in patriotic devotion to their countrymen in the army. They provided and forwarded such supplies as they were able. The grand-duchess Helena Paulowna did a noble work in aid of the hospital arrangement, and also put herself at the head of a band of three hundred female nurses. But there was inefficiency and mismanagement everywhere, and there were the inevitable results of aggravated disease and mortality. It is said that the Czar, Alexander II, moved by the severe suffering of his troops, was thereby determined, " probably more than by any other con- sideration," promptly to conclude peace. 1 In the Franco-Italian campaign against Austria, the battle of Solferino was fought on the 24th of June, 1859, theaHied French and Sardinian troops being victorious. It was one of the most terrible and bloody conflicts of the present century. More than three hundred thousand men were engaged, beginning at early dawn, for full fifteen hours, in deadly strife. Many of them: were wearied out by previous marching, and there was neither time nor opportunity to take either rest or food. The heat was excessive, and the suffering of the wounded, and indeed of all, both during the battle and subsequently, it is impossible to de- scribe. The killed and wounded in both armies were reckoned as including 3 field-marshals, 9 generals, 1,566 officers of all grades (630 Austrians and 936 of the allies), and about 40,000 soldiers or under officers. To these must be added not less than 40,000 more, who were lost during the following two months, from diseases brought on by the excessive fatigues and exposures of the battle. Thus, from the casualties of that one day, the killed and disabled were more than 80,500 men, or nearly 27 per cent, of the whole force engaged. Among the witnesses of the conflict was Mr. J. Henry 1 La Commission Sanitaire des Etats- Unis. By Dr. T. W. Evans. Paris, 1865. See Preface, pp. iii, iv. See also Souvenir de Solferino, page 155 : La Charite Inter- nationale, page 7. Thanks are due to Dr. Evans for his works upon the United States Sanitary Commission, kindly forwarded through the thoughtful suggestion of Rev. Dr. Burlingham, of New York. Dr. Burlingham's attention and courtesy were similarly manifested many times while abroad. A GLANCE BACKWARD. 53 Dunant, of Geneva, Switzerland. He was deeply affected by the intense suffering of the survivors of the battle, and was con- vinecd that much of it might have been relieved, and many of the victims saved, by timely and organized assistance. For several days he was actively engaged in ministering to the wounded and sick, especially at the hospitals established in Cas- tio-lione, where his efforts were nobly seconded by the men and women of the place, and by tourists and others who were pres- ent. In November, 1863, Mr. Dunant published the narrative of his personal experience at Solferino. Under the title Un Souvenir ctober, 1863, at which thirty-six delegates were pre- sent by invitation, some of them from corporate bodies and asso- ciations, and eighteen of them being official representatives of fourteen governments, — including those of Greai Britain, France, Spain, Austria, Prussia, Italy, Russia, and Sweden. A code of international enactments, proposed by the Geneva Committee, was 1 For forwarding this, with other valuable documents, as also for many other acts of kindness, thanks are due I" Rev, Th Monod, of Paris. 54 IXTKODUCTIOX. discussed by the conference, and recommended to the several governments for adoption. A correspondence was at once opened by the Central Geneva Committee (now re-named ComitS Inter- nationale dt SScours aux MUitaires BlessSs) with most of the cabinets of Europe, for the purpose of ascertaining to what de- gree they were willing to adopt the recommendations proposed. Fifteen states signified their willingness to accept the propositions as part of an international code. In June, 1864, upon solicita- tion of the Committee, the Swiss Federal Council issued an invi- tation to all civilized powers to take part in a general congress at Geneva, in August, to consider this special question of secur- ing, by international enactments, neutrality in time of war for hospitals, ambulances, surgeons, and all persons legitimately engaged in earing for the sick and wounded. This measure was heartily seconded by the French government. The congress, constituted by the representatives of sixteen states, assembled at the City Hall, in Geneva, on the 8th of August, and remained in consultation until the 22d. The propositions of the former conference were, in substance, introduced, discussed, and adopted. The assent of twelve nations was secured at the time, and a treaty covering the points in question was signed by their repre- sentative-. 1 Subsequently all the chief civilized powers of the world gave in their accession to the treaty, except Austria, Turkey, and the United States. The government of this country was in full sympathy witli the object proposed, but was prevented from acting by reason of our national troubles. An auxiliary committee has recently been formed here, under the title of The American Association for the Relief of the Misery of Battle Fields, 'The details of this movement are given in the valuable work entitled La Ckariii Internationale sur le.9 Champs de £atail!c. already several times quoted. It was prepared by Mr. Henry Dnnant, of Geneva, author of the Souvenir of Sof/erino, Secretary of the International Convention above referred to, and Secretary of the permanent International Association for the relief of disabled soldiers. He must be regarded as the originator and principal worker in the enterprise. Mr. Dnnant has kindly forwarded a copy of the sixth edition of La Charite Internationale, for which he will please aeeept this acknowledgment A GLANCE BACKWARD. 55 with headquarters in New York. Rev. Henry \V. Bellows, i>. i>., is president, and Ghas. L. Brace is secretary. 1 The following is the treaty referred to, as adopted by the [in- ternational Congress at Geneva, and since signed by most of the governments of Christendom: — TREATY For the Amelioration- of the Condition of Wounded Soldiers of Armies ix the Field. The Sovereigns of the countries following, to wit: Italy. Baden, Belgium, Denmark, Holland, Spain, Portugal, Prance, Prussia, Saxony, Wurtemberg, and the Federal Council of Switzerland, animated with a common desire of mitigating, as far as in their power, the evils inseparable from war. of suppressing needless severities, and of ameliorating the condition of soldiers wounded on the Held of battle, have determined to conclude a treaty for this purpose; and. having named plenipotentiaries to sign such :i conven tion, these plenipotentiaries, after the due interchange of their powers, found to be in good and proper form, have agreed upon the following articles, to wit : — Art. 1. Ambulances 2 and military hospitals shall be regarded as neutral, and as such protected and respected bj the belligerents as long asthey shall he occupied by sick or wounded. Neutrality shall cease if the ambulance or hospital shall he guarded by a military force. Art. 2. The personnel of the hospitals and ambulances, — comprising tie medical staff, the sanitary, administrative, and transport service, and the chaplains, shall participate in the benefit of the neutrality as long as it shall he in operation, and as long as there shall he any wounded to relieve or assist. Art. '.',. The persons designated in the preceding article may. even after the occupation by the enemy, continue to fulfill their duties in the hospital or ambulance to which they are attached, or they may withdraw to rejoin tl ps to which they belong. Under these circumstances, when these persons shall cease their duties they shall be sent hack to the enemy's out- posts, under care of the occupying army. \i;r. I. The materiel of the military hospitals remaining subject to the laws of war, the persons attached to these hospitals may carry away, upon 1 See the circular of the United States Committee, is ued fi >m Nev S irl mis.',!',, aing the Constitiiti Treaty, etc., of the International Society, ■■■ ■ i the movement ■ See note at page 50. 56 INTRODUCTION. withdrawing, only that which is their own personal property. In the same circumstances, on the contrary, the ambulances shall preserve its unit,' rid undisturbed. Art. 5. The inhabitants of the country who shall bring aid to the wounded shall be respected and shall remain undisturbed. The generals of the belligerent powers shall inform the inhabitants of the appeal made to their humanity and of the neutrality accorded them. Every wounded soldier cared for in any house shall be a protection to that house. The person who shall have received any of the wounded into his house shall be excused from lodging troops, as well as from a part of the contributions of war which shall be levied. Art. 6. Wounded and sick soldiers shall be gathered and cared for, — to whatever nation they may belong. The commanders-in-chief shall have power to send back immediately to the enemy's outposts any of his soldiers wounded during the combat, — when circumstances permit it and both parties give their consent. Those soldiers shall be sent back to their own country who, after recovery, shall be considered incapable of service. The others may likewise be sent back, on condition of not taking up arms again during the continuance of the war. In the abandonment of hospitals, the patients and those who have charge of them shall be protected by an abso- lute neutrality. Art. 7. A distinctive and uniform standard (flag) shall be adopted for hospitals and ambulances. It ought in every case to be accompanied by a national standard. An arm-badge shall be worn by the neutral persons, lint the delivery of it to them shall be left with the military authority. The standard and the arm-badge shall bear a red cross upon a white ground. Art, 8. The details of the execution of the present convention shall lie regulated by the commanders-in-chief of the belligerent armies, according to the instructions of their respective governments, and conformably to the general principles set forth in this convention. Art. 9. Tin 1 high contracting parties have agreed to communicate this present convention to the governments which have not been able to send ambassadors to the International Conference of Geneva, inviting them to accede to it. For this purpose the protocol is left open. Art, 10. The present convention shall be ratified, and ratifications shall be exchanged, at Berne, within four months, or sooner if possible. As a pledge of this, the respective ambassadors have signed it, and have appended the signet of their amis. Done at Geneva, the 24th day of August, 1864. During the Schleswig-Holstein war, in the early part of 1864 3 considerable religions work was done among the soldiers. This A GLANCE BACKWARD. 'u feature of philanthropic and Christian activity, if not wholly new in European armies, was unusually prominent. The Inner Mis- sion, as directed by Rev. Dr. Wichern, of Berlin, and others, had their laborers in the field.' The Herman Baptists of Hamburg, whose rise and growth and zealous propagation of the gospel during the past thirty years form one of the most remarkable chapters in modern religious history, were also prompt in sending colporteurs among the soldiers. One or two brief extracts from the very interesting narratives of these last-mentioned workers will show the spirit and method of their operations. They are given in the Missionsblatt, a missionary paper, published monthly in Hamburg, by Rev. Dr. J. G. Oneken, and appeared during the first half of 1864." In an editorial article dated March, 1804, the following summary is presented: "Of our mission, ten brethren, since the first entrance of the troops, have been active among them, assisted by a great number of volunteers and by the prayers of all the brethren and sisters. Our laborers were -cut to various points, even outside the limits of Holstein, where troops were collected or on the march, and they labored among more than a hundred thousand soldiers, — German, Hungarian, Italian, Polish, and Danish. The joyous result of this missionary work is the distribution of 400,000 tracts, ' Messengers of Peace,' and Gospels, and the sale 5 of nearly 0000 Testaments in different languages. The brethren themselves, as well as their 1 ks, almost without exception, have found a favorable reception from officers and men. The former many times assisted the brethren in their 1 Rev. Dr. Philip Schaff called attention to this fact. It is proper t" remark that Dr. Schaff, by his Lectures on the Christian Life of America during tlte Civil War (Der Burgerkrieg und das Christliche Leben in Nbrd Vmerika), repeatedly delivered in Germany during his visit there in 1865, ami afterward public Berlin,] ble ervice for hi idopted country. He sketches the ons of the leading C missions and Societies, and shows how the p and Christian sentiment of the country sustained the nation and preserved the - Thanks are due to Rev. Dr. J. <'•- Warren, Corresponding Secretary of the American Baj -nary Union, for do- w-r of these period 3 The Testaments « ire uniformly raid, — for about a cent and a half; books and the tracts were given away. 8 58 INTRODUCTION. work, ordering the under-officers to help distribute, or to let the men form in a ring so as to make the distribution easier." Under date of February 11th, Mr. C. Peters writes from Mielburg, "In the eight weeks that the Danes lay about here it was a joyful time for us. Very many tracts were distributed among the soldiers. Brother Repsdorf, colporteur from Copenhagen, was here with Danish Bibles and Testaments. Every evening he preached in Danish. We found an eager appetite for religious books, especially for Testaments, but we could not satisfy the hunger until our supply Mas renewed. From Copenhagen Brother Forster sent us a large quantity of Danish tracts, and from Hamburg we received about 1,400 Testaments. So our work went on. On Sunday, January 30th, many brethren and sisters were sent off with Testaments and tracts. Each brother took with him from 50 to 70 Testaments, and after a few hours' work in the surrounding villages returned for more." Two colporteurs, Messrs. Windolf and Peterson, in a journal of 'the labors of several days, close their account thus: — "In these eighteen days the dear Lord has eared for us, soul and body. He has prepared the way for us, and has heard the prayers of his people in our behalf. He enabled us to distribute 9,900 Gospels. more than 10,000 tracts and 'Messengers of Peace,' and 241 Testaments. May the Lord now also hear the prayers, that many may be converted." These humble, earnest men seem to have labored faithfully, in the hospitals and camps, and on the battle-fields, wherever the military authorities would permit, among Austrians, Prussians, Danes, Italians, and Russians, min- istering incidentally to bodily wants, lint mainly to their religious needs, by books, papers, conversation, and religious services. But this must suffice. The foregoing historical sketch, imperfect and inadequate as it manifestly is, will yet do something toward showing more clearly the peculiar character and circumstances of our war. The war was accepted, but not begun, by the people, for the mainte- nance of their own national existence and authority. Forced upon A GLANCE BACKWARD. 59 them, and thus made unavoidable, they determined to secure every amelioration possible, that at least the moral life of the nation might not be lost in the struggle. The experiences and methods and mistakes of previous wars were before us mi the pages of history, and there was the purpose to use them for the advantage of those of our fellow-citizens who for the time being had become soldiers. The governmental provision for the army was in advance of anything before known, not only in the adequacy of supply, but also in the facility of distribution and the adaptation to current wants. The popular extra-govern- mental provision, small of course when compared with the mil- lions expended by the government, was unparalleled for its abundance and for the energy and organization of its administra- tion, while its moral value to the army and the nation was beyond all reckoning. An officer of the British army, in a communica- tion published in the Edinburgh Medical Jownal for January, 1865, states: — "The sick and wounded soldiers of no other service have been so well cared for in regard to their creature comforts as the Federal. What with the Sanitary, Christian, and State Commissioners, acting independently of the purveying Depart- ments, tin' requirements of the army hospitals have been well supplied. These Commissioners act as adjuvants to the Medical Department; not professing to control or interfere in any way with the arrangements thereof, but only assisting in ameliorating the distress of the sick and wounded." 1 The systematic, continued, and efficient religious work among the soldiers was as novel as it was valuable. The high religious character of the army, and the diffusion of a common Christian sympathy among all classes at home as well as in the camp, which was one of the immediate results of this work, preserved alike our soldiers and our citizens from tin 1 degradation usually regarded as the inevitable consequence of civil war. It was generally felt, especially during the last two years of the war, that the Christian character of a young man was as safe in the army as in any place out of it. The testimony of Mr. William ' Quoted in Medical f{ewa and Library , Philadelphia, March, 1865, page U. 60 INTRODUCTION. Swinton, whose opportunities of observation and qualifications for judging will not be questioned, should be cited upon this point: — "That there was abundant badness in the army is indubitable, for where men abound sin will abound too. But it- is not too much to say that the world never saw so moral an army as the mighty host enlisted in the cause of the Union ; never such an assemblage of men arrayed for war witli so little of those vices that are the canker-worm of armies, — drunkenness, pro- fanity, and uncleanness. And there were, besides, a sufficient number of men of such deep religious character that they became a sweet savor in the army, and were felt as a positive power." ' It was the character of the contest and of our armies that made the Christian sympathy of the people so natural, spontaneous, and beneficent. Such popular exhibitions of patriotic and reli- gious feeling are inconceivable where the army is simply an instrument of oligarchic power, and war is for royal ends alone, — removed from the knowledge and interests of the people. Hon. Geo. Bancroft, in a private letter, remarks: — "Nothing like the self-organized commissions for the relief of our armies ever was before. The Christian ( lommission is the fruit of our institu- tions, — coxdd not grow up, would not be allowed to grow up in any nation in Europe, unless it be in England, and could not there in the huge, free, popular way that we have witnessed here. Republicanism proves herself the friend of charity and of reli- gion, and may the union endure forever. Go on, and write your noble work; — every word of it will be the eulogy of free institutions." Numerous testimony could be given, if it were needed, and that from the most competent witnesses, to the fact that the wort of the Christian Commission was novel and unique among all the philanthropic and religious movements of history. To the statement of Mr. Bancroft may be added that of Rev. Dr. Henry B. Smith, of New York, one of the first living authorities in the department of ecclesiastical history. Also in a personal note to the writer, he says, "The work of the U. S. Christian Commis- 1 Hours at Home for February, 1866. A GLANCE BACKWARD. Gl sion, in my view, stands oul alone in the records of civilization and Christianity, for its wise and far-reaching benevolence. .Mure thoroughly than any other institution it has carried the spirit and principle of Christianity to the battle-field. I hope that some person familiar with all the facts will give the world a permanent record of its method and achievements. It is a new chapter in Church History." ANNALS UNITED STATES Christian Commission. CHAPTER I. PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. The relation of piety to patriotism is vital, as is abundantly illustrated in history. This fact cannot be overlooked, without leading to a serious misapprehension of the lessons of history and the changes of human society. "It is a scathing comment on the influence of skepticism upon a people, that, in general, the highest feeling of nationality is coexistent with the devoutest piety. 1 1 is the very nature of infidelity to deaden the emotions of patriotism, and that country can hardly expect to prove successful which engages in war while its citizens are imbued with religious doubt." 1 The recent civil war in the United States was preceded and attended by great religions prosperity. The nation was thus providentially supplied with the moral earnest- ness and power needed for the terrible conflict. 1 Hurst's History 0/ Rationalism, page '22'2; sue also pages 82, B3. 03 64 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. The years 1857-'8 witnessed a religious awakening of unparalleled extent and power throughout the United states. In the light of subsequent events that period becomes invested with new significance. It was the preparation of the nation and the church for the hour of trial. The awakening had its most striking outward manifestation in the daily prayer-meetings, first estab- lished in New York City, in the autumn of 1857. It was during the terrible financial disorder which reached its crisis on the 14th of October, in an overwhelming panic that prostrated the whole monetary system of the country, virtually in one hour. Those who were in- volved in it can never forget the intensity of the struggle. There was a universal agony of anxiety, as all. eyes watched the financial fluctuations of the great commer- cial metropolis, as men might watch a rising deluge, and the catastrophe brought with the ruin an unutterable sense of relief. From the centre of the disaster there came forth a most gracious healing. Before the panic occurred, " while the conflict for life was yet intense, an humble Christian, unheard of in Wall street, had been prompted to do something for the relief of the distressed merchants of the city. He was a down-town missionary, sustained by the Reformed Protestant Dutch Church in William street, to explore the surrounding field, visit the sick and poor, and bring in the inhabitants and strangers to the house of God. While walking down town one day, he conceived the thought that an hour of prayer could be profitably emjdoyed by the business men, — no one being required to remain the whole hour, but each coming in and going out at his convenience. He mentioned the idea to one or two persons ; no one PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. 65 thought much of it; he resolved, however, to carry it out. The appointed time came ; three persons met in a little room on the third floor, in the consistory building in the rear of the church, and prayer was there offered. Mr. Lanphier 1 (the missionary) presided, and one clergy- man was present. The next meeting was composed of six persons; the next of twenty. The next meeting was held in the middle room on the second floor, and now on every Wednesday noon the Business Men's Prayer- Meeting attracted increasing numbers. Its striking lit- aess and evident usefulness were noticed in the news- pa [kts, secular and religious, and the suggestion was earnestly made that it should be opened every day. instead of weekly. This was promptly done, and the meeting overflowed and filled a second, and eventually 'This first meeting was held on Wednesday, September 23d, 1857. Mr. Lanphier had been a merchant. He understood the needs of the class he sought t<> help, and knew that the hour of noon was one of comparative leisure for all business men and their assistants. In a private note dated October 5th, 18G0, Mr. Lanphier writes, "I consulted with no person and no person consulted with me about that meeting until I bad determined to establish it ; when I applied for and obtained permission to use the room for that purpose. I then appointed the time for holding the first meeting, and immediately after com- menced giving notice of it, by cards and letters and handbills, and made per- gonal applications to Christians to attend it. I found little or no encouragemi nt from any of them, and, during the time which elapsed between my determina- tion to establish it anil the time of the first meeting, nothing occurred to give lie the hast hope of Christian sympathy or support. But my firm reliance and trust were in God, feeling in my inmost soul that my purpose was, in this humble way of prayer, to honor Ilini and become the instrument of His ble ing to the souls of men. I had been accustomed to be in that room for prayer ibe day on which the first meeting was appointed to be held, and some- times one or two, and once three, were there with me. Hut on that day, not- withstanding the great pains I had taken to make it public, I was there alone with Jesus for half an hour after the time appointed, before any person i ntei ed the room. In the last half hour five other persons came in. What has followed is matter of history, known to many." U 66 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. a third room in the same building; — making three crowded prayer-meetings, one above another, in animated progress at one and the same hour. The seats were all filled, and the passages and entrances began to be choked with numbers, rendering it scarcely possible to pass in or out. The hundreds who daily went away, disap- pointed of admission, created a visible demand for more room, and the John Street Methodist Church and lecture- room were both opened for daily noon prayer-meetings, by a committee of the Young Men's Christian Associa- tion, and were crowded at once with attendants. Meet- ings were multiplied in other parts of the city, and the example spread to Philadelphia, to Boston, and to other cities, until scarcely a town of importance in the United States, save a few in the South, was without the Business Men's Daily Prayer Meeting." 1 The public interest in religion was unprecedented. The entire nation seemed to be the scene of one vast revival. The secular papers were filled with reports of the meetings. The telegraph was daily used by the various assemblies to communicate intelligence and inter- change salutations. Business letters were vehicles of religious news and religious exhortations. All denomi- nations were at work, and all classes of people were interested. The legislators at the capital, the mechanics in their shops, the firemen in their engine 1 muses, the waiters in the restaurants, had their daily seasons of associated prayer. One man testified that by " adding his personal observations to those of a friend, he could say, that from Omaha City, Nebraska, to Washington 1 Narratives of Conversions and Revival Incidents. By William C. Conant. Published in 1S58. See page 357, etc. PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. 67 City, there was a Une of prayer-meetings along the whole length of the road; so that wherever the Christian traveller stopped to spend the evening, he could find a crowded prayer-meeting, across the entire breadth of our vast repuhlic."' The number of cities and villages in which the great awakening was in simultaneous pro- gress was not less than two thousand, by actual count? The accessions to the churches at that time it is impos- sible to tell, for no record was attempted. In the city of New York alone the additions were estimated at two thousand per month, for the first three months of 1858. 3 Tins wide-spread religious activity, with more of fluctuation in different sections of the country, con- tinued until the outbreak of the rebellion. There were numerous revivals and many conversions in the years 1851) and 18(10. Some of the daily meeting.- were maintained entirely through the war, and are still in operation. It is hence impossible not to recognize the immediate and immense influence of the prevalent and zealous Christian life in the nation upon the shaping of the events which preceded the war, as well as upon the character of the troops sent to the Held, and the volun- tary agencies organized for the temporal and spiritual welfare of the army. We should not otherwise have been ready for the conflict. It will be found also that the wonderful religious interest which pervaded the army during the whole of the war was the c mtinuance of the previous revival, and was sustained by the elevated feeling ami apt instrumentalities which that revival had produced. 4 1 Narratives, etc, p. 374. - Ibid., i>. 415. * Ibid., it 7. 1 See Christ in the Army, p. 17. 68 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. It seems desirable to notice, with such brevity as may be compatible with clearness, those preliminary move- ments of individual and associated benevolence for the bodily comfort and spiritual care of the soldiers, which showed the necessity and prepared the way for the organization of the United States Christian Commission. This is the more appropriate because the Commission, taking the field a little later than some other agencies, did a service peculiar to itself, filling a place wholly unoccupied, and becoming complementary to existing instrumentalities, whether governmental or voluntary. President Lincoln was inaugurated March 4, 1861. Fort Sumter was bombarded April 13 and 14. The proclamation of the President, calling forth "the militia of the several States of the Union to the aggregate number of 75,000," and convening both houses of Congress in extra session, was issued April 15. The people were ready for the call, and immediately, around the entire circle of the loyal States, the response was hearty and full. Who that saw it can ever forget the blaze of enthusiasm which shot up over all the land, the eagerness with which men offered themselves, and the disappointment of those who could not be accepted ? On the evening of the last day named, April 15, the Massachusetts troops began to assemble in Boston, and earlv on the day following the four regiments called out in that State " were on Boston Common, mustered in regular order, with banners flying and bayonets gleam- ing, and each company with full ranks." 1 Popular attention to the physical and religious wants 1 Lossing's Pictorial History of the Civil War, Vol. I, p. 401. PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. 69 of the volunteers was as prompt as was their response to the President's call. The first men to reach Wash- ington were from Pennsylvania. They composed five companies from the interior of the State, — Pottsville, Reading, Lewistown, and Allentown. They had not yet heen organized into a regiment, and were without arms. They arrived in Washington, by way of Harris- burg and Baltimore, on the evening of April IN, and were quartered in the Capitol. They found an eager expectation and a most enthusiastic reception. They were visited and supplied with religious reading by Mr. William Ballantyne, bookseller, and his associates of the Washington Young Men's Christian Association. 1 On the afternoon of the day preceding the arrival at Washington of the above Pennsylvania troops, — April 17, — the Sixth Regiment of Massachusetts Volun- teers, — Colonel Jones, of Lowell, — left Boston for the same city, by way of New York, Philadelphia, and Baltimore. They were visited in New York by Mr. Vincent Colyer, who found them supplied with Testa- ments. 2 1 Mr. Ballantyne, in referring to tliis first religious work among these first troops in Washington, writes : — "Time hung heavy on their hands, and they hail nothing to read. We took all the tracts we had in stock, and used them up. Saving a large number of tie- Family Christian Almanac ofa former year on hand, 1 had the young men in the store cut out the calendar part, and stitch a brown paper cover over the reading portion, which made an i icellenl tract, and so distribute them. The men were also supplied with Testaments, and the Rev. J. G. Butler, pastor of the English Lutheran Church, preached O' them." Mr. Ballantj ne, thus early in the field, remained an efficient worker through the war. (See further al pp. 296 '8.) '' Mr. Colyer, whose name occupies a conspicuous place in these earl) move- ments, ami who has kindly forwarded a full and interesting record of his labors, writes : " My first visit in the Boldiers was to the Sixth Massachusetts Volun- teei . "ii tin- morning of the 18th of April, 1861, while they were halting tin- 70 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. On the day following, Friday, April 19, these Massa- chusetts troops were attacked in the streets of Balti- more; three men were killed outright, and one mortally wounded. The regiment reached Washington that evening, many of them having lost their baggage, in which were their Testaments. On this becoming known to Mr. Ballantyne, on the following Sabbath, the want was at once supplied. Similar labors were per- formed for the various bodies of troops as they succes- sively arrrived in "Washington, and took up their encampments in and around the city. "The women of Bridgeport, Connnecticut, met. to- gether to roll bandages and prejiare lint as early as the loth of April, 1801." 1 On the afternoon of the same day " Miss Almena B. Bates, of Charlestown, Massa- chusetts, read the President's call for men, and the idea at once occurred to her that some of the men must go from Charlestown, and that they would need aid and comfort from home." A paper was soon drawn up, after conference with others, " proposing the formation of a relief society, and setting forth its objects. This paper was signed by a large number of ladies on the 19th of April, the day of the attack upon the Massa- chusetts troops in Baltimore. A constitution was read and adopted, and a board of officers for the year was chosen on -the l22d." - breakfast in New York City, at tlie Metropolitan and St Nicholas Hotels, on their way to the defense of Washington. I found them will supplied with Testaments, etc., — given to them by the ladies of Concord, Massachusetts." This supply of Testaments at Concord is the earliest known public religious minis- tration to the soldiers after the outbreak of the war. The work thus fittingly began witli the Christian women of America, and was sustained to the end largely by the constancy of their devotion and zeal. 1 Goodrich's Tribute Book, p. 112. 2 Ibid., p. 112. PEELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. 71 The "first subscription list to which the rebellion gave birth" was in New York City, April 17, beaded by Moses II. Grinnell, consisting in all of thirty-one names, for one hundred dollars each, for the benefit of the Seventh New York Regiment. 1 The first public subscription strictly for the 'personal relief of the soldiers was of one hundred dollars, made by Judge X. Crosby, of Lowell, Massachusetts, on the morning of April 18. The letter which enclosed the gift is of historical importance, and worthy of preserva- tion here: — Lowell, April 18, 1861. Mr. Mayor: — Southern treason ha.-; at last culminated in seizing Fort Sumter, and we have no choice left us but to meet the traitors wherever they may present themselves. Rumor has become fact. Our men have been called and have left us. More will undoubtedly soon follow. They have left us at the tap of the drum, without wavering and without preparation. They have left homes without shutting their doors, friends without adieus, and their hammers upon their benches. We must comfort those friends and prevent loss in their business. We who stay at home can well afford to do all this for them, and make our sacrifices in money, and thus care for our country, our constitution, and laws. The burden of this struggle must rot upon every man's shoulders in some form. I am willing i' i meet my full share of it. Let us have a large committee of men and women, t<> he called the "Nightingale Band," who shall gather and distribute funds to the families of soldiers who need, and furnish pa\ ma -tcis of our regiments with money and such supplies for the sick and wounded in camp as rations and medicine-chests cannot bestow. As some of our men may at once need such funds in camp, — a new exposure and life to them, — please accept my first contribu- tion ( sino i, and semi it to Lieutenant Plaisted, paymaster of Colonel Jones' regiment, 1 for the last-named purpose. Yours very truly, N. CfiOSBY. 1 See the list, in Goodrich's Tribute Book, p. 29. '-' The Sixth Massachusetts, 72 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. This letter strengthened and directed the public feeling. The City Council added $500 or $600, and forwarded it at once to the regiment. A public meeting was called on the 19th and held on the 20th, 1 at which a Soldiers' Aid Society was formed. This society is remarkable, not only for being organized so early and proving very efficient, but also for having at the outset a well-digested and comprehensive plan. It included both sanitary and religious ministrations. The meeting- was called on the day named, by the Mayor, " for the purpose of initiating measures for the comfort, encour- agement, and relief of citizen soldiers." Twenty men were present. Judge Crosby, one of the twenty, pre- sented the following memorandum of methods by which assistance could be rendered : — ■ " 1. By gathering such funds and supplies as may be necessary. " 2. By supplying nurses for the sick or wounded when and as far as practicable. "3. By bringing home such sick and wounded soldiers as may be proper. "4. By purchasing clothing, provisions, and matters of comfort which rations and camp allowances may not provide, and which would contribute to the soldier's happiness. " 5. By placing in camp such Bibles, books, and papers, as would instruct and amuse their days of rest and quiet, and keep them informed of passing events. " G. By gathering the dates and making a record of the name and history of each soldier and his services. " 7. By holding constant communication with paymasters or other officers of our regiments, that friends may interchange letters and packages." 2 1 A Soldiers' Aid Society was formed in Cleveland, Ohio, April 20. 2 See the Memorandum in Goodrich's Tribute Bonk, page 71. In a personal letter from Judge Crosby, dated October 20, lSGfi, he thus refers to the above PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. 73 Philadelphia, lying in the immediate pathway of the troops passing from the North to Washington, was no1 slow in showing her interest in their welfare. The subjoined memorandum from Rev. Dr. AV. J. R. Taylor, then Pastor of the Third Reformed Dutch Church, Philadelphia, now Corresponding Secretary of the American Bible Society, records the earliest public movement, so far as known, in that city: — " ( >ii Sabbath, April 21st, 1861, after sermon, in the conclusion of which an appeal was made for our distressed country, I read to the congregation the following note, which was sent uie just before service : — " ' Philadelphia, April 20, 1S61. "'Rev. Mr. Taylor:— "'Don- Sir: It is understood that a hospital will be forthwith opened in this city, for the reception of the sick and wounded of our army, and it is proposed that the ladies of the several churches should meet early next week, to make arrangements for the preparation of bedding, bandages, lint, etc. To perfect such arrangements, and secure concert of action, it is requested that in each church one or more ladies should be appointed to attend a general meeting, at such time and place as shall be made known through the papers. subscription and meeting: — "The meeting was the joint efforl of the Mayor ami myself, called on the 19th ami held on the 20th of April, by special invita- tion. 1 presented the memorandum and made extended remarks, going over the whole ground. The meeting was enthusiastic, and resulted in tin- collec- tion of abundant funds and gratuitous labors, in furnishing the varied supplies for oiillii and Held comforts. "If I recollect right, Mr. Goodrich settles the qm lion b) giving the SI 00 against me, on the ground that certain gentlemen in the city of New York gave each $100 on the 17th. 1 think the distinction is this, — the money sub- scribed in New York was to raise and equip men, my subscription was f, contemplating just the field occupied liv your society. It' this distinc- tion, — this difference in object, — places my $100 first in your judgment, I shall not olijeet to the credit. At any rate 1 am content with the great good my subscription and efforts at the time accomplished for the soldier, by stirring the Community to watch for and relieve his wants." 10 74 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. "'This work of charity has received the hearty approval of many ladies, but was proposed too late for a notice in the evening papers, and as the suddenness of the emergency forbids the delay of another week, the notice from the pulpit, if not the best, is now the only prac- ticable plan. You are therefore respectfully requested to call such a meeting of the ladies of your church. "'Very respectfully, "'Mr.s. Israel Bissell, " ' Miss Eliza Austin, " ' Mrs. S. Calhotx, " ' Per E. M. Harris, 1116 Pine Street.' "I shall never forget the impression," continues Dr. Taylor, "made upon the audience by the simple reading of this notice. Pastor and people burst into tears together. It was absolutely over- powering. No blood had yet been shed. After the service some even doubted whether there would be any fighting. I was told by two or three persons that it was a premature notice, and produced needless alarm and anxiety among the people. But it was the first foreshadowing in our church of the actual preparation at home for the awful carnage that attended the great rebellion. The call was cordially responded to by a number of ladies, in our lecture-room, the next morning at 11 o'clock. "Out of this and similar spontaneous movements among the churches of Philadelphia, grew the Ladies 1 Aid Societies of the city, — noble heralds and aids of the Christian and Sanitary Commissions. These meetings continued for several weeks, until the Ladies' Aid, 1 1 Probably no local society in the country was quite equal in efficiency and fruitfulness to the Philadelphia " Ladies' Aid." Among the first in the field, it did not retire until the work was done. Its affairs were managed with great wisdom and success. Over £24,000 in cash were raised and expended, besides large supplies of stores, — averaging in value over $20,000 each year. But above all were the priceless labors of its secretary, Mrs. Dr. John Harris, and her associates in the armies East and West. Nothing that woman could do was left undone by Mrs. Harris, and much was done by her that few others would have thought of or attempted. Her semi-annual reports are among the most interesting documents produced by the war. In the early days of the Christian Commission the "Ladies' Aid" was of immense service to it in many ways. PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. /-) which made its headquarters al Dr. Boardman's church, absorbed this and the local church efforts in Its broad charities." ( )n Monday, April 22, Mr. JefetfTPatterson, of Phila- delphia, made his first 1 visit to the army, — probably the very first occasion of the war on which any one left his home to go abroad in search of soldiers and to min- ister to them, Prompted by his own desire, and encour- aged in his purpose by a number of friends, he visited the troops lying at Havre de Grace, Annapolis, Relay House, and Baltimore. He found those at Havre de ( Irace especially suffering from exposure, and their first request was tor a load of straw. "The request was made known in Philadelphia at once, and not only the load of straw, but blankets, mattrasses, and other necessaries were immediately forwarded." The Philadelphia Young Men's Christian Association soon after organized an Army Committee for local work. A Ladies' Relief Society was also organized in ( >range, New Jersey, April 22, — the movement being very simi- lar to the one already noticed in Philadelphia. It re- mained independent and proved itself very efficient. throughout the war. It made the first contribution of stores received by the Ladies' ( lentral Association of New York, — a box being sent to them on the 4th of May. The Young .Men's Christian Association of Chicago was prompt in recognizing and responding to the neces- sities of the hour. Ill their Eighth Annual Report (May, L866) they give the following historical facts: — 1 Mr. Patterson's faithful, valuable, and gratuitous services for the < hristian Commission, extending through its entire history, in various responsible rela- tions, were frequently acknowledged by the Executive Committee, and endeared liiiu to multitudes of soldiers and others. 70 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. "The efforts of the Association in behalf of our soldiers and our country, date from the beginning of the war. On Sabbath, the 14th of April, 1861, Fort Sumter was surrendered. One week from that day, Sabbath, April 21st, the first public meeting was held in Na- tional Ball (where President Lincoln was nominated), convened by a call of the Association, and presided over by its President, Mr. J. V. Farwell. A number of the members of the Association were among the first who responded to the call for 75,000 men, and on the 4th of May the first public presentation of a flag was made by the Presidenl of the Association to Captain Barker's Dragoons, 1 and the same afternoon a second meeting was held. Upon the occupation of Cairo (April 25, 1861 > by our troops, a meeting of clergymen was called to provide for sending delegates from their number to preach to our troops there, until provision could be made for chaplains. Several of our city pastors and laymen were sent, some of them following the advance guard of our army into Missouri. It is to be regretted that the names 6f all such were not recorded, and cannot now be recalled ; but prominent among them were Rev. E. F. Dick- inson, and Rev. E. Folsom. During the last of May, Messrs. D. L. Moody and B. F. Jacobs, of the 'Committee on Devotional Meet- ings,' commenced a series of meetings with the soldiers in camp near this city, and from the commencement the interest in these meetings was very great. To supply an immediate demand for hymn books, an edition of 3,500 was printed from plates of the Sabbath School Union. The work enlarging, an Association Army Committee was appointed, by adding the names of Mr. J. V. Farwell as Chairman, and Mr. Tut- bill King, to the previous committee. The meetings at the camp con- tinued to increase in interest until as many as eight or (en were held each evening, and hundreds were led to seek Christ." On the 25th of April, as the result of previous invita- tions, a meeting of fifty or sixty ladies was held in New 1 "This company was invited to a benelit at a theatre, — the proceeds to he donated to the equipment of die company. The offer was very tempting, as the expenses, including the purchase of horses, were heavy. But when the captain put the vote to the company, not a >iiiL:ie man \oted for the theatre. They resolved to have the daily prayer-meeting instead." — Rev. Dr. Robert Patterson, in Clirist in (lie Army, p. IS. PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. / i York City, at the "Infirmary for Women," at which a Central Relief Association was suggested. Measures were taken to secure further information and a larger attendance, an address was prepared, and the women of New York were asked to assemble in council at the Cooper Institute, on the morning of the 29th. "The response was ample. No such gathering of women had ever been seen in this country. David Dudley Field presided, and the object of the meeting was explained by Rev. H. W. Bellows, d. b., when the assemblage was addressed by Mr. Hamlin, Vice-President of the United States, and others. Then a benevolent organization was effected, under the title of The Women's Central Association for Belief. Auxiliary associations of women were formed in all parts of the Free-labor States, and when wounds and sickness appealed for relief, a few weeks later, a general system for the purpose was so well organized, that all demands were at first promptly met." 1 This society "contained the germ of what was afterwards the U. 8. Sanitary Commission," which was organized in June, L861. The first formal request for such a Commission was in an address to the Secretary of War, dated May IS, — alter two days spent by the peti- tioners t Rev. Dr. Bellows, with Drs. W. II. Van Bun n. Elisha Harris, and Jacob Harsen, acting as a committee from societies in New York) in consultation with the military and medical authorities at Washington. Secre- tary Cameron's approval was given June 9, and Presi- dent Lincoln's June L3. On this latter day tin' plan of 1 I i Bsing's I . i War, Vol. I. p. 575. See History of tin S chapter It; Goodrich's 1 pp. 72-76; .'.' Vol. I. document p. 168. 78 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. organization was submitted to the Secretary of War and officially endorsed by him. Religious labors were begun and religious services established in the camps at Cincinnati, Ohio, in April, 1861. Rev. B. W. Chidlaw 1 was prominent, although not alone, in these, — receiving the hearty cooperation of the officers in command, and being welcomed by the soldiers. The first meeting in Camp Harrison was held on Friday evening, April 26, " in front of the quarters of Captain Erwin, Co. E, Sixth O. V. I." In Mr. C's journal of the period referred to it is noted, " We have prayer-meeting at 8 o'clock every night. It is sustained by the soldiers, and is exerting a blessed inlluence for good." Later, at Camp Dennison under date of May 27, is this noteworthy record: — "Visited the tents, dis- tributing tracts and religious papers, kindly furnished by friends. At 3 o'clock p. m. preached to a very large audience; some thirty officers were on the platform, and my congregation seated on the green sod, — attentive hearers of the glorious Gospel. Later in the afternoon I found in the barracks of the ' Oberlin Rifles' a Bible class of forty members ; about one-half of them had the Greek Testament. This company in the Seventh O. V. I. is made up of collegiate and theological stud i I from Oberlin, — pious and earnest young men." Mr. C. further says: — "The Young Men's Bible Society of Cincinnati furnished me with Testaments for distribution, 1 Mr. Chidlaw, during the summer and autumn of 1861; was chaplain of the Thirty-ninth Ohio Regiment, and showed by his own example how much a faithful chaplain could do, even before the benevolence of the country was organized, in ministering to the bodily and spiritual necessities of the soldiers He was afterward intimately connected with the work of the Christian Com- mission, in the operations of the Cincinnati Branch. PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. 79 and employed a colporteur who labored faithfully for many months. We needed hymn hooks, and in response to my application, the Young Men's Christian Associa- tion of New York sent me several thousand copies of the 'Soldiers' and Sailors' Hymn Book,' — just what we ueeded.and what the soldiers always gladly received and carefully preserved. Ministers and laymen from Cincin- nati and vicinity, through their influence and by personal labor, did much to promote the spiritual improvement of our brave men in these camps of instruction." In Baltimore, on the 4th of May, 1861, the " Balti- more Christian Association" was organized. It was designed to meet all the forms of need, bodily and spiritual, among the soldiers in camp and hospital, within and around the city. The families of soldiers were also assisted. Mr. G. S. Griffith was active in the formation of this society, and was made its President. The position of Baltimore upon the direct route by which the first troops reached Washington, and its proximity to the seat of war, gave early employment to the Association. Its active members soon numbered fifty, and were afterward. increased to one hundred. Upon the establishment of a Branch of the Christian Commission in Baltimore, the "Christian Association" at once became an auxiliary of that Branch, but maintained its own organization during the war. The first troops which reached St. Louis, in May, L861, were promptly met ■ by Mr. J. W. Sutherland, agen! (,f the American Bible Society, and Mr. J. W. Mcliitvre, the well-known bookseller of that city. Through these gentlemen supplies of Testaments and other religious reading were furnished to the several 80 AXNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. regiments as they arrived. Mr. Mclntyre speedily organized the work upon a comprehensive and efficient system, and hy circulars addressed to chaplains and others arranged for the regular distribution of papers, tracts, hymn books, libraries, etc., among the men. This was continued until the formation of the St. Louis Branch of the Christian Commission. Before any formal propositions or organized efforts " for giving aid to the sick and wounded were publicly made, a woman who for many years, Howard-like, had been laboring unceasingly for the poor, the unfortunate, and the afflicted, had obtained the sanction of the War Department for the organization of military hospitals, and the furnishing of nurses for them. That woman was Miss Dorothea L. Dix, whose name was familiar to the people throughout the land. She offered her services gratuitously to the government, and they were accepted. So early as the 23d of April, or only eight days after the President called for troops to put down the rebellion; the Secretary of War issued a proclamation, announcing the fact of such acceptance ; and on the 1st of May, the Acting Surgeon-General, R. C. Wood, ' cheerfully and thankfully recognizing the ability and energy of Miss D. L. Dix in her arrangements for the comfort and welfare of the sick soldiers in the present exigency,' requested all women who offered their services as nurses to report to her." 1 1 Lossing's Ciril War, Vol I, pp. 575, 576. In a private letter, dated June 17, 1S66, Miss Dix writes: — "I entered Baltimore just as the fury of the mob, on the memorable 19th of April, 1861, had spent itself, and was in Washington almost on the hour with the Massachusetts Sixth. I was never off duty from that date till March, 18G5, although I resigned my official trust the previous September." PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. 81 As has been intimated, the movement throughout the country, alike in hastening forward to the defence of the threatened capital, and in succoring those who went, was so general and so prompt, that it is difficult to particu- larize, or to designate what places were absolutely fore- most. Some dates and incidents have been given; others remain to be stated; but it must be remembered that only a few of the great sum have been recorded, and that these would doubtless be well-nigh matched by many others if all the facts were known. 1 No one then thought of the personal distinction of being first in the work, or of making a record for himself. Each was intent simply on doing at once what seemed demanded by the emergency, without further consideration. The crisis was too great and too momentous, the solemn and majestic uprising of the people was too unanimous and determined, and the emotions awakened were too pro- found and absorbing to allow the presence of narrow and selfish motives. As in all the grander actions of men, self-consciousness was lost in the sense of duty and the high purpose of immediate action which ruled the hour. It was simply the more favorable opportunity, rather than a readier disposition, which gave to any one place the precedence of achievement for the national cause. Moreover, in the evidence already presented the cheer- ing fact is manifest that from the beginning the army was recognized as a field for evangelical effort. Almost the first work done for the soldiers, alike before leaving 1 Correspondents who have Bent notices of societies that were in early and efficient operation, ami ■■!' personal labors among the troops tir-t called out, will recognize the impossibility of mentioning every case, ami will accept those that aro given i- representative of all, and as indicating tin- forethought, readiness, and energy which won- displayed throughout the entire country. 11 82 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. their homes and after arriving at the seat of war, was a strictly religions work. In the first plans for associated labors in behalf of the troops their religions necessities were distinctly recognized. This was to be expected, from the nature of the struggle, the remarkable provi- dential preparation which the nation had received, and the character and social connections of many of those who went into the army. Christian men were the first to appreciate the crisis, and the first to offer themselves for the nation's defense. The Young Men's Christian Associations, in most of the cities and towns of the loyal States, had representatives in the earliest regiments. 1 Those who remained, equal in patriotism and zeal to those who had enlisted, naturally thought and cared for their brethren and for all. Hence the departing regiments were provided with the Scriptures and other religions reading ; meetings were established in the home camps and places of rendezvous; money, supplies, and 1 Sec The Philanthropic Results of the War, p. 98. The New York Indepen- dent of April 25, 1861, says, "Many of the churches of all denominations are sending some of their most active members to the field as volunteers." — (Quoted iii Rebellion Record, Vol. I, diary p. 38.) At the annual breakfast of the Young Men's Christian Association in Lon- don, England, Mr. George H. Stuart, present as a representative from the Associations of this country, said, " When the terrible war came upon them they felt it in their Associations, especially in their reduced numbers, and many of the country Associations were entirely broken up, almost every member haying responded to the call of Abraham Lincoln, to go forth and stand by the government. Some Associations formed entire companies out of their ranks." — The Christian World for May 15, 1866. The Young Men's Christian Association of New York, in a letter to the London Conference, dated August, 1862, speaking of the effect of the war upon the Associations throughout the country, says, "Of some two hundred organi- zations, efficiently laboring in the Master's cause three years ago, there are scarcely twenty that can now be named as active and prosperous." — Eleventh Annual Report, p. 15. PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. 83 personal services were given for the relief and comfori of the men; after every considerable battle, even from the beginning, members of the Associations were de- spatched to the sufferers, full handed, to minister to their physical and spiritual needs. Such services were rendered by the Associations of Washington, Philadel- phia, Xcw York, Boston, Chicago, St. Louis, Cincinnati, and other places. In tracing more fully the character and course of some of these labors, it will be seen that from these preliminary movements, and as the result of an intelligent demand and a fit preparation, the U. S. Christian Commission was organized to do a needed and momentous work. Never was the guiding hand of God more strikingly manifest, and never was his benediction more richly bestowed. The Young Men's Christian Association of Washing- ton City was necessarily first in the field, for their city was the field, — the original seat of war. They saw the opportunity and obligation of their position, and at once entered vigorously upon the fulfillment of them. "Im- mediately after the commencement of the arrival of troops, and while they were all quartered in the city, it was divided into districts, and each district given in charge to certain members of the Association, whose duty it was to see that the spiritual wants of the soldiers with- in their field were met." 1 .Mr. Vincent Culver, whose visit to the first troops that reached New York City, has been already noticed, con- tinued, as he says, "to visit the rapidly departing regi- ments, then leaving for the seat of war, — more with the desire to enlist than to do missionary work, yet gradually 1 First Annual Seport U. S. Christian Coin p. 91. 84 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. led to minister to trie spiritual and temporal wants of the volunteers. I distributed Testaments, hymn bonks, trails; opened meetings for prayer, singing, exhortation; carried messages to families, made neglected purchases, wrote letters, and in every and any way practicable tried to be of service to the men." ( )n May 2, 1861, the managers of the American Bible Society adopted the following resolution: — " /i'iWiyy/, That a circular be prepared by the secretaries, and sent to each agent and auxiliary throughout the country, reminding them of the peculiar need of the Word of God, which all persons have who are in circumstances of danger and exposed to sudden death, and urging them to see that every soldier enlisted within their bounds is supplied with a copy of the Scriptures iu whole or in part ; and encouraging them, if unable without assistance to attend to this important duty, to apply for such assistance to the Parent Society." 1 The effect of this wise and generous action was salu- tary and great. The agents and auxiliaries did good service in carrying out the resolution. The American Tract Society at Boston visited many of the early New England regiments, on their arrival in Boston, in April, 1861, and distributed such reading matter as they had in stock. Immediate arrangements were made for printing such books and periodicals as the emergency seemed to demand, and the work was vigorously prosecuted throughout the war. The \\ estern Agency was active in extending the operations of the Society. Their distributions of reading matter were mainly effected through their own agencies, although much was done through the Christian Commission and other associations. In October, 1861, the Senior Seere- 1 Annual Report tor 1862, p. 30. PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. 85 tary of the Society, Rev. ,1. W. Alvord, entered upon the persona] superintendence of the work in the Army of the Potomac, and remained in the field until the close of the war. The American Tract Society at New York was equally prompt. The first regiments which reached that city were visited and supplied with publications. Special tracts and hooks were at once prepared. On May S, 1861, the Society resolved " That it is incumbent upon us. at this time, to appropriate, as means shall be fur- nished, $10,000; Or whatever shall he necessary, to pro- vide such hooks, tracts, and personal agencies as arc specially suited to those who have been summoned by patriotism and duty to the perils, temptations, and sufferings of the camp." These publications reached the army and navy through many channels, lint mainly through the Society's own agencies, under the direction of one of the secretaries. In 1862 and thereafter "army missionaries" were employed in the different divisions of the field. The sum specified in the original resolution was multiplied many fold in the Society's expenditures upon the army. As showing the tendency of Christian thoughl and action at that early day, as manifested in the general meetings of the various denominations, mav be noticed the national anniversaries of the Baptists beld in Brooklyn, New York, May, 1861. On the 29th of that month a special meeting of all the delegates present was called, witli reference to the state of the country. In the report and resolutions presented by Rev. Dr. Win. II. Williams, it is stated "That tearful as is the scourge of war waged in a good cause and in the fear of 86 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. God it may be to a people, as it often in past times lias been, a stern but salutary lesson for enduring good. In this struggle the churches of the North should, by prayer for them, the distribution of Scripture and tract, and the encouragement of devout chaplains, seek the religious culture of their brave soldiers and mariners." 1 The Young Men's Christian Association of New York early saw the needs and opportunities of the new field of labor, and were not slow in entering it. "On the 21st of May, 1861, some members of the new Board of Directors held an informal meeting in the study of Rev. Stephen H. Tyng, Jr., when the subject of army work for the Association was considered and discussed ; and within a day or two thereafter Messrs. Vernon (President) and Tyng made the first visit to the soldiers as representatives of the Association. They were of the Troy regiment, then stationed in Canal street. Immediately thereafter, — (Monday, May 27, 1861), — followed our regular meeting, when the situation of the volunteers in the camps about the city, their necessities, the lack of chaplains and religious instructors, the need of small and portable books and tracts adapted to the wants of a soldier's life, were fully discussed; and the question was then agitated, What should the Association do?" 2 As the result of the above meeting a plan of opera- tions was decided upon, which was at once carried into execution. The plan "embraced the publication of a collection of familiar hymns, 3 Scri]rture readings, and 1 See Rebellion Eeeord, Vol. I, document p. 308. 2 The Work of the Army Committee of the New York Young Men's Christian Association, p. 7. Thanks are due to Mr. Cephas Brainerd, author of the Report above quoted, for copies of his pamphlet, and for other assistance in collecting materials. 3 The "Soldiers' Hymn Book "was issued by the New York Army Com- mittee on the lffth day of June, 1861, and was probably the first of its kind published during the war. PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. 87 prayers fitted for the soldier's use; the establishment of devotional meetings in the camps of the soldiers in the neighborhood, on Sundays and week-day evenings; the visitation of all regiments as they passed through the city, supplying them with religious reading, and tin- holding of religious services, if their stay allowed time and opportunity; the organization of a working Chris- tian force in every regiment; and the aid and support of chaplains. A correspondence with chaplains and others, in and out of the army, was devised, as one means of accomplishing this result." An Army Committee was at once formed. In the prosecution of their Christian work by this committee, the barracks and encampments " within a radius of thirty miles around the city" were visited frequently, and "services were held with as much regularity as circumstances would allow." During the six months which followed the organization of the com- mittee, " more than three hundred religious meetings were held, with the happiest results." The Young Men's Christian Association of Philadel- phia, the members of which had been in various ways engaged in work for the soldiers from the outbreak of the Rebellion, reorganized their Army Committee on the 4th day of July, 1861, with Mr. P. B. Simons as chairman. The committee did a large local work, and became a valuable auxiliary of the Christian Commission. The Young Men's Christian Association in Boston emulated the promptness and zeal of similar societies elsewhere. From their proximity to the Navy Yard and station at Charlestown, they were able to give special assistance to the marines and sailors gathered there. A daily prayer-meeting was established on board the re- 88 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. ceiving sliij> Ohio in 1859, which has been continued ever since. Personal effort and distribution of religious reading accompanied these meetings. Large numbers were converted, and a religious influence exerted through- out the entire navy. In the early days of the war, when experience and organized assistance were alike wanting, devoted and intelligent chaplains, — and there were many such both East and West, — contributed not a little to the welfare of the troops. 1 Donations of reading-matter, and extra sup- plies of clothing and food, for sick and wounded, were secured from personal friends or local societies. Also in many of the regiments there were at least a few Christian men, and these would unite in establishing religious meetings and in devising methods for the com- fort and welfare of their comrades. Hence even from the beginning, before the great national societies came 1 Rev. Mason Gallagher, of Brooklyn, New York, who was chaplain of the Twenty-fourth New York (Oswego County) Regiment from May, 1861, to Janu- ary 15, 1862, ami during six months of that time was secretary of the "Chap- lains' Association," which met weekly in Washington, communicates some reminiscences of the period. Among other things, he says. "Messrs. Colyer, Alvorcl, and Goss, I remember as of great assistance in the work of procuring tracts ami papers during my term of service. To the former I feel under great personal obligations. Our meetings at Washington I remember with great interest. All measures relating to the spiritual good of the army were there discussed, and I believe much good was done. To Messrs. Ballantyne, Miller, and others, of the Young Men's Christian Association of Washington, we were under great obligations for interest taken in the chaplains' welfare. A visit of Bishop Mcllvaine, and his fervent address at one of our meetings, will long be remembered. Let me here say, that having been brought largely into connec- tion with the chaplains of the Army of the Potomac, from my position as secre- tary of the Association, I can testify to the high order of men who engaged in that sacred service. There was occasionally a black sheep introduced, but they were gradually removed. The chaplains stood in great lie. d ofsympatlry and support in the early period of the war, for everything was in a chaotic state, and their condition was peculiarly unpleasant." PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. 89 into operation, the smaller extemporized agencies at home and in the army did much for the relief ami assist- ance of the soldiers. There was doubtless much neglect and much suffering, for these could only be met by ex- perience ami organization, but they were less than they would have been without the extra popular help so heartily proffered on every side: and the great national societies themselves were little more than the combina- tion, enlargement, and improvement of methods that started into spontaneous activity throughout the country with the first movements of the war. The battle of Bull Run was fought on Sunday, 1 July 21, 1801, with what results the world knows. It was the first considerable engagement of the war, and occa- sioned great excitement throughout the country. There was a sudden and severe check to the eager expectations of the people; but the sufferers were not forgotten. Volunteer relief was at once added to the provisions of government. Mrs. Dr. Harris, in behalf of the Phila- delphia Ladies' Aid, and Mr. Colyer, accompanied by Mr. F. W. Ballard, in behalf of the New York Young- Men's Christian Association, were among those who forthwith repaired to Washington, and were successful in contributing greatly to the comfort of the wounded. As reproducing and commemorating those early scenes, and as illustrating what was even then effected by popu- 1 That our first battle should be fought on the Sabbath, when it was in the ■ f our commanders to choose otherwise, caused great grief and indigna- tion among tin- Christian people of the nation. By many persons the disaster to our troops was regarded as a judgment upon the profanation of the day. The di ion ami remonstrance which followed led to the proclamation of Gen, McClellan'a Sabbath Orders, dated respectively September ii and November ■i~. i86i: 12 90 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. lar sympathy and benevolence, we may quote from the personal records of these first visits. Mrs. Harris addressed the following paper to Rev. Dr. W. J. E,. Taylor, and it was read by him to a crowded audience, at a public meeting held in Philadelphia, on the evening of Sabbath, August 25, 1861. The meeting- was in Eev. Dr. Wylie's church, and was called " to hear addresses and take measures in behalf of efforts to promote the spiritual welfare of our Pennsylvania soldiers, especially those in camps and hospitals." It is not difficult to conceive what must have been the effect of this simple story of an eye-witness, and that witness an earnest Christian woman, upon an assembly gathered under circumstances so peculiar and impressive: — My Dear Sir : At the suggestion of Mr. Geo. H. Stuart, I throw together and furnish you some of the incidents of my late visits to the military hospitals and camps. I went in behalf of the Ladies' Aid, taking hospital stores, tracts, etc., etc. Visiting the military hospitals of Washington, Georgetown, and Alexandria two days after (Tuesday, July 23). the battle of Bull Run, the value of our holy religion and its power to soothe were felt as never before. In the different hospitals about 500 wounded of youth, with every variety and degree of injury, were found. Passing from cot to cot with almost bursting heart, " Words of Jesus" were whispered into the ears of many of the sufferers. As the poor fellows caught the sound they looked up with cheerful countenances, and even glad surprise, giving utterance to such expressions as the following: — "Oh I ought to be thankful it is no worse; it is only a flesh wound. If God had forgotten me in the battle as I have for- gotten him, I should not have been here. I hope I may never again forget his goodness/' Another, whose benignant, placid expression told of great peace, to the remark " You have been shielded in the day of battle, perhaps in answer to a mother's prayers," replied. "Yes, to those of a sainted mother; but especially to those of a praying wife, who, in a letter just received, says, "I spent the whole PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. 91 of Sabbath in prayer for you,' not knowing I was in the battle, but her Father and ray Father knew it. That was enough. I went into the battle with prayer and came out with thanksgiving for a spared life." I was about to pass on when the position of his arm arrested me. "You are wounded in the arm?" "Yes." "I hope not seriously." "Yes, it was amputated at the elbow before I left the field." Wholly unprepared for such an announcement- my feel- ings overpowered me. He soothingly said, "It is only m\ r left arm. Thai is not much to give to my country. It might have been my life." Another, a lovely youth, whose bright restless eye and flushed cheek told of suffering, grasped my hand and gently pulled me towards him. as I knelt beside him and said, " My dear boy, what can I do for you? Shall I talk to you of Jesus?" "Oh, yes," he said, " I am used to that. I have loved Him, but not near enough, for two years, and now He is going to take me home." " You are very young. Have you a mother?" "Oh, yes." Tears filled his eyes. "It must have been a great trial to give you to your country." " Yes, it was. When I first mentioned it she would not hear me, but we both prayed over it, and at last she consented, saying, 'My country deserves this sacrifice. I gave you to God at your birth, and this is His cause.' " As I fanned the dear boy, brushing back the hair from bis beautiful forehead, he fell into a sleep. When I withdrew my hand he started and exclaimed, "Oh, I dreamed that that was Annie's hand. Won't you put it on my head again?" "Who is Annie?" "My twin sister. We were seventeen since I left home." This dear youth is now with the Saviour. He died from his wounds the next day. Many such testimonies were given to the power of grace to strengthen and cheer in time of deep distress. Some of the sick visited last week seemed deeply grateful for lie gift of a tract, or anv little kindness and expression of sympa- thy. S were near death and were groping like blind men, — needing some one to lead them to the "Light of Life." Some had just died and "made no sign." Others were mourning over a dis- honored profession ; they ran well for a time, but the temptation- of camp life were too powerful ; resistance grew daily more feeble, until in Bome instances they had lapsed into open, outrageous gin, and were suffering all the pangs of an outraged conscience, and needed, 92 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. as only such souls can tell, to Be reminded of Him whose blood cleanses from all sin. Others were glad to hear the name of the Master. To the remark, " How sweet and comforting it is to feel, wherever I go, Jesus has been here before me and knows just what is needed," — came the glad reply, "How sweet the name of Jesus sounds ! It is the first time I have heard it since I came into the hospital, excejiting when I uttered it myself." .... I might go on multiplying such incidents, but the above are suffi- cient to indicate the work to be done by Christians among noble and oft suffering soldiers. We do not half realize our obligations to them and to our Master. Their sufferings, like His, are vicarious. Did they not enter the breach, where should we be? Mr. Colyer and Mr. Ballard left New York on the evening of Tuesday, July 23. The subjoined extracts are from Mr. Colyer's journal of the visit: — " We arrived in Washington ( 'ity soon after sunrise on Wednesday, July 24, and the passing of long lines of army wagons, tumbled together in discreditable confusion, and the sentinels with their gleam- ing bayonets and white tents, told plainly of our approach to the seat of war. At that hour many of the weary soldiers were still asleep, lying on the door-steps and side-walks of the city. Groups of them, at intervals, before some public building, would be seen preparing their breakfasts. Their kettles, propped upon stones, were simmer- ing in the smoke of a dozen fires, while the fragrant odor arising therefrom was rather provoking to an appetite whet with a night's long travel and the cool morning air. The soldiers appeared jailed, and for the most part indifferent to the niceties of the toilet ; yet here and there you would see one combing his hair before a small mirror, or bathing himself at a running hydrant. On Pennsylvania Avenue they were to be counted by the thousand, in every variety of costume; and although in much confusion, yet there were to be detected traces of that order which comes from life in the camp. Men slightly wounded would here and there be seen, and any kindness extended to them was seemingly equally appreciated by their companions. "< > i 1 1- duty led us at an early hour to the hospitals. The wounded men stretched upon neat and tidy single cots, were glad to see visitors. PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. 93 There were upwards of three hundred and fifty patients, — two-thirds or more wounded at the battle of the Sunday previous. They wished to converse, and after we had had quite a talk with one, he would refer US to some other in the same ward, who he thought would be pleased to speak with a friend from home. Their wounds were of every sort, — bullet-wounds through the thigh, leg, arm, shoulder, with severe cuts from bursting shells, buck-shot, etc. The far larger number were shot through the side. This arose from two causes, — partly from their being exposed to a flank-fire, and partly from the manner of loading and tiring, which presents the side oftener than the face to the enemy. "We spent the day in writing letters for them to their wives, parents, relatives, and friends. It was very touching to find them often thinking more of their loved ones than of themselves, and when we would put some endearing conclusion to the notes, such a> the writer trusted 'this would find them all well,' and signed with ' love affectionately,' they would turn aside with voices choking with emotion. " .... In going through one of the wards where some thirty sutiering soldiers were lying on their cots, I took a large package of tracts, opened it, ami allowed each man to choose for himself. There were Lives of Vicars, of Havelock, Colonel Gardiner, Story of The Soldier's Sun, The Roll-Call, Welcome to Jesus, and tracts on the Soldier's Welcome Home, on Swearing, on Temperance, and many others. As each wounded man chose a book, he would raise himself up on his cot and inquire of his neighbor what book he had chosen ; and having ascertained he would then select some other, and remark, ' When we have read each our own we will exchange.' While they were thus engaged, a number of the wounded who were seated nut on an open verandah enjoying the cooler air, espying through an open window til. package and what was going on within, sent several of their number hobbling in to make a selection for them. I took the bundle out to them, and the majority having selected hymn books, in a few minutes I heard them all singing the hymn beginning, — 'There is a fountain tilled with blood Drawn from Emmanuel's veins,' etc. And thus were brave and noble fellows from Maine, Wisconsin, 94 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Indiana, Connecticut, and the New York Fire Zouaves, cheerful as they were courageous, and the gallant Highlanders, far away from home, with limbs lacerated in defense of their country, singing in that evening twilight with hearty zeal that beautiful hymn. " . . . . Although the Government of the United States, and the ' Governors of Connecticut, New York, and Wisconsin, and I do not know but some others, have sent orders to have every thing provided for the sick that may be required, yet the Christian missionary, in going through the various wards of the hospitals, can often find cases which, in the multiplicity of objects, and pressure of other, perhaps more serious work, have been overlooked. It was from this cause, doubtless, that we found a ready welcome given to little presents of drawers, socks, fans, shirts, wrappers, etc., by finding individual cases where they were really needed." Mr. Colyer remained at Washington, labelling among the soldiers in camp and hospital. He was assisted by other delegates from the New York Association, and representatives were also present from other societies. Supplies began to be liberally sent forward by churches, local societies, etc. The government was disposed to grant every facility needed for reaching and ministering to the men. The chaplains hailed the establishment of such means of communication with the friends at home, and thankfully availed themselves of their new oppor- tunities. 1 1 Mr. Colyer writes: — "At that time there were no chaplains for the hos- pitals, and no power in the hands of the President to appoint any. Mr. Lin- coln gave notice of his willingness to appoint such persons as came suitably commended, but there was no money with which to pay them. In this emer- gency the Misses Woolsey, two wealthy ladies of New York then residing in Washington, told me that if I would name a clergyman for the Alexandria hospitals, they would pay his salary." This was done. "These ladies also used their own private carriage as a vehicle, and carried quantities of hospital stores to the army. Up to the close of the war they carried on their liberal ministrations to the soldiers, wherever they could find opportunity. They visited the battle-fields, — Gettysburg, Edward's Ferry, Yorktown, and others. PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. 95 Mr. Colyer soon discovered that the mission which had been "undertaken in Christian sympathy as a tem- porary task, would have to he kept up and extended as a permanent duty." The work began to assume- gigantic proportions, ami demanded the organization and concen- tration of the Christian agencies of the country. Accord- ingly, on the 22d of August, lie wrote to his colleagues of the New York Committee, and suggested the calling of a cun vention of the Young Men's Christian Associa- tions of the loyal States, for the purpose of forming a general commission. The suggestion was favorably re- ceived, and steps were at once taken toward carrying it into effect. In addition to the immediate endorsement id' the plan by the officers of the New York Association, formal action was taken at a meeting held on the 23d of September, when a committee was appointed, of which Mr. Colyer was chairman, " to conduct the correspond- ence and arrange the details" for the meeting, in behalf of the Association. Mr. Colyer addressed a series of inquiries to the chaplains of the army, to secure such definite and authentic information as would assist the proposed convention in reaching the most desirable re- sults. Replies were received from more than sixty chaplains. He also visited the principal Eastern cities, to consult the leading members of the several Associa- tions, and to urge forward the new movement. The proposition was everywhere approved. 1 The "National Committee of the Young .Men's Christian Associations They carried on :i large correspondence with soldiers' families, ami did a vast amount of good." 1 \ ii v early in October, even before it was decided t" hold a convention, the Associations of Boston and Brooklyn had appointed their delegates. 96 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. of the United States," for the year 1861, resided in Philadelphia, — Mr. George H. Stuart being chairman. The convention asked for could only he called by this committee. Ordinarily such conventions were called at stated intervals, and Mr. James Grant, a member of the committee to whom the matter had been referred, asked Mr. Colyer to put in writing his reasons for the unusual measure now contemplated. Mr. Colyer thereupon pre- pared the following letter: — Washington City, 1>. I '.. October 1, 1S61. Dear Sir: Having been occupied for these last ten weeks in the army, at Washington, as representative of the New York Associa- tion, the necessity for a much more extended organization, in order to meet, even approximately, the Christian wants of the soldier, has so impressed itself upon me, that I cannot avoid writing to voir for aid. I wish to ask the National Committee, of which you are a member, earnestly to consider the propriety of calling a general con- vention, at some central place, at the earliest practicable day, to consider the spiritual wants of the young men of our army, in order that the same may be provided for by the appointing of a " Christian Commission," 1 whose duty it shall be to take entire charge of this work. The government has now over 250,000 men enlisted, the far greater majority of whom are young men, and not a few of them members of our Associations. These young men are risking their lives for their country, exposed to constant hardships, and subjected to all the temptations and debasing influences of camp life. They are liable to sickness and prolonged suffering from wounds in hospital, and to sudden death upon the battle-field. To meet the great wants of these young men, under circumstances which so urgently call upon our Christian sympathies and gratitude ( for they are assembled in defense of our homes, our rights, and our government), no adequate exertion has yet been made. Our Society in New York has raised and ex- pended §2,000, and forwarded books, tracts, and hospital stores worth 1 This is the first mention, so far as known, of the title " Christian Commis- sion." PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. !»7 $3,000 more. The Washington City Society has had its members actively employed in the camps around this city, until the army became so large that it was entirely beyond its reach, and it had exhausted its means. Your Society has sent a deputation to inquire into the matter and report. Other Societies, of which we have no advices (except the Boston, which lias done a good work for the navy), have doubtless done much. Yet it is all but as a drop in the bucket, compared with what ought to be done, and what the great Societies whom you represent are capable of doing. Let me inclose a few brief extracts from letters I have received from chaplains : "Allow me, in behalf of the regiment of which I am chaplain, to thank your Association for the books and tracts so kindly provided for the men. Could the friends of Jesus know how gratefully these books and tracts are received by our soldiers, they would be prompted to increased liberality If these works, added to the labors of the chaplains, accomplished no more than to save the religious portion of our army from backsliding, it would prove a mighty work; but their potency for good in increasing the morale of the army can only be measured by those who have an opportunity to judge of their effects. " W. P. Strickland, " Chaplain 48th N. Y. Volunteer*:' "May God bless you in your labor of love and charity. I believe the seed of truth sown during this war will be the means of awaken- ing many souls to Christ. Pray for me that my faith fail not. " J. R. Carpenter, " Chaplain 1st Beg't D. C. Volunteers." " I rejoice in the Lord at your ' labor of love.' In my opinion this is a work second only in importance to the appointment of the highest officers in command. Blessings upon you and your true yoke-fellows everywhere for trying to introduce more of the Spirit of God into our ranks. Camp life abounds with temptations,- and the soldier's calling is demoralizing in the extreme. " W. H. CUDWORTH, " Chaplain 1st Mass. Volunteers" 13 98 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. " I would do much violence to my own feelings of gratitude did I not avail myself of this opportunity of thanking you, on behalf of myself and also of the religious portion of the Thirty-first Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, for your very timely supply of religious books, etc. ]So person can safely calculate the religious destitution of the army, unless they have had practical experience of living in camp. Without such an agency as this which you hold here, many persons would suffer severely. May the Most High prosper your work of faith, and bless you and those who are associated with you in so good and so necessary a cause. " E. W. Oliver, " Chaplain 31.rf Rerjt Pa. Volunteers." I could add many more like these, but this will suffice to show how the work here is regarded by those who are most interested, and the best capable of judging of its necessity and usefulness. It will be seen, then, that I do not ask you to try an experiment, but to continue and enlarge a work which is already practically under way and successfully working, but which has now grown so large that we cannot do better than resign it into hands capable of giving it the dimensions it deserves, and, I trust, will receive from you. I need not urge the necessity of prompt as well as decisive action, — for it must be apparent to every one, that whatever is done effectively in this army work must be done quickly. At any moment a terrible battle may take place here, and all along our lines | in the "West particularly) engagements are daily occurring; besides, the troops are continually in motion, and the habits of the men are forming daily, either for good or evil. The work is so extensive and needs such large resources, that single Associations can do but little, and for them to act independently of each other is to increase vastly the expenses while the labor accom- plished will be less; and while some sections will receive too much attention others will be comparatively neglected. I need not say what a blessing such a work will prove to the Asso- ciations themselves. It is well known that many of these societies are now languishing for the want of means to meet their current expenses; and it might reasonably be asked, seemingly, How can PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. 99 they, then, undertake a new and extensive work like this? The answer is. They can readily collect money for this special army mission when they cannot for anything else. The community i- so sensitively alive to the wants of the soldiers, — nearly every city, town, village or family having their own citizens and members in the army, — that the subject takes immediate hold of their sympathies, and will command their ready aid and support. We have tried it, and found it so. Having had a personal interview with the President of your Com- mittee, and learned his hearty readiness to co-operate in this work, I visited Boston, and there met with an equally cordial response. That Society will send an able delegate, and our New York Society will select a prominent citizen and member to represent it ; and I doubt not, if the time would have admitted, other Societies would have promised the same. I therefore leave the matter in your hands, and pray that a Convention of all the Young Men's Christian Asso- ciations of the Loyal States may lie called at an early day. With Christian esteem, fraternally yours, Vincent Colyer, N< w York Y. M. C. A., Chairman Com. on Correspondence with Convention. To James Grant, Esq., Of the Com. for calling Convention Y. M. C. A. of the U. S., Philadelphia, Pa. Having been continuously at this centre, with abundant oppor- tunities of observation, and feeling strongly impressed with the necessity of united and energetic action in this great work, I heartily concur in the proposition presented by Brother Colyer with the view of securing such concerted action. M. H. Miller, President Washington City Y. 31. C. A. The National Committee was somewhat delayed in it- act inn, owing in part to the illness of the chairman, but nil the 18th of October it was decided to call the Con- vention. 1 New York, at the rooms of the Association 1 In a private letter dated June 2ii. ISt'iti, Mr. dram writes, " Unquestionably 100 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. in that city, was selected as the place of holding the Convention, and the 7th of November proposed as the date of meeting. The day, however, was subsequently changed to the 14th, " to give opportunity for communi- cation with the more distant Associations." On the 28th of October, therefore, the official call for the Con- vention was issued, as follows : — Philadelphia, October 28. 1861. To the Secretary of the Young Men's Christian Association of Dear Sir: t The Central Committee of the Confederation of Young Men's Christian Associations having been urged to call together a Convention, for the purpose of systematizing and extending the Christian efforts of the various Associations among the soldiers of the army, do hereby request such a Convention to meet at the rooms OFTHeYotjng Men's Christian Association of New Yokk, on Thursday, the fourteenth day of November next. In issuing this call, they, in common with Christians of every name, deeply deplore the necessity which has forced the Government to take up arms in defense of its constitutional rights and liberties, and it is their earnest prayer that by the blessing of God, on a true and righteous basis, peace may soon again be enjoyed throughout every State of the once happy and prosperous Union. In the meantime, while such numbers of young men are congre- t ho idea of the Commission originated with the New York Association, and Mr. Golyer was the first to lav it before us. It is a singular reflection to my own mind to remember how slow and faint-hearted we were when the idea was first presented to. us. The magnitude of the work, the agitated state of the country, and the fears lest the whole matter should prove a failure, were the cause of this. We had little faith, and certainly had no thought that the results of that convention would prove so glorious, and be known, as it is, world- wide. There was much difficulty in obtaining a meeting of the committee. I well remember the warm afternoon, October IS. 1S61, when it at last met and decided to call the convention. This was done after fervent prayer; and having come to the decision, prayer was, I believe, again offered, that the bless- ing of God might be upon the convention, and that He would be present to guide and ratify all its deliberations. I was appointed to prepare the official circular, and did so." PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS. 101 gated together, surrounded by temptation and danger, an open field of usefulness is presented, vast in extent and interesting beyond expression. To enter in and cultivate this field, there appears no instrumentality so well adapted as the organizations already formed in almost every city, town, and village of the country. The work has already been successfully begun by several of these, in particular by the New York Association, whose agent 1 has for nearly three months been actively employed among the camps in the neighborhood of Washington. It is exceedingly desirable that in a cause so unquestionably important, evert Association ix THE land should lend its aid, and that there should be unanimity of feeling and concert of action. Hence the reason for this call, — a call which the Committee trust « ill meet with a response equal to the grand object it has in view. The Associations, in their endeavors to meet the spiritual wants of the soldiers, will doubtless be amply sustained by the Christian public, and there are abundant proofs that these labors -will be appreciated and kindly received by the soldiers themselves. It is earnestly hoped that every Association receiving this circular will make a strenuous effort to send forward at least one Delegate to the Convention, and if in any case this should be impracticable, it is recommended that the views of such on the whole subject be com- municated in writing to the Secretary of the Convention, at the Bible Rooms, corner of Third avenue and Ninth street, New York. 1 It -lirml.l here be remarked that the labors of Mr. Culver in the army were entirely gratuitous. Mr. Brainerd says : — "No compensation was ever made by the committee to Mr. Culver, for bis long and faithful service, involving a complete relinquishment of bis business for the time. His was a free-will offering." It may also be added that at the Convention which, in pursuance of the above call, formed the Christian Commission, Mr. Colyer occupied the first afternoon of the session in detailing his experiences in the army and bis reasons for desiring the formation of the Commission. Immediately on the adjournment of the Convention be returned to Washington and to bis work among the soldiers. He remained until the following summer, — devoting in all sixteen months of time, — acting as agent for the Young Men's Christian Association of Brooklyn, the ladies of St, George's Church, New York, and others. He distributed over $27,000 worth of hospital stores, fund, books, etc., besides being on several occasions employed in important services for the Government. 102 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Believing that no machinery put in operation can do effective work without Divine aid, earnest prayer is requested that God's blessing may rest upon the Convention, guide it in all its delibera- tions, and crown its every effort for the temporal and spiritual wel- fare of the soldiers with complete success. By order of the Committee. Geo. H. Stuart, Chairman, Joiin Wanamakee, Cor. Sec'y. James Geant, John W. Sexton, Geoege Cookman. P. S. The first meeting will be held at the rooms of the Associa- tion, Bible House, corner of Third avenue and Ninth street, New York, on Thursday, November 14, at 3 p. m. CHAPTER II. THE FIRST YEAR. In pursuance of the foregoing call, the Convention assembled at the time and place named, — in the rooms of the New York Young Men's Christian Association, Bible House, on Thursday, November 14, 1861, at 3 o'clock, p. M. The following is a list of the delegates present and of the Associations represented : — New York City. — Rev. Stephen H. Tyng, Jr., Vincent Colyer, Frank W. Ballard, Edward Colgate, Rev. J. H. Burtis, Cephas Brainerd, Benjamin Lord, Benj. F. Manierre, Gilead B. Nash, Lewis S. Hallock, Caleb B. Knevals, Gerardus C. King. Amsterdam, N. Y. — E. J. Purely. Boston, Mass. — E. S. Tobey, Charles Demond. Bridgeport, Conn. — Rev. A. R. Thompson, M. C. I law lev. Brooklyn, N. Y. — William B. Jones, Henry White. Buffalo, N. Y.— William C. Bryant, J. D. Hill, m. d. Chicago, III. — J. King. Cincinnati, Ohio. — H. Thane Miller, Samuel Lowrey. Danbwry, Conn. — S. G. Raymond, Philadelphia, Penna. — Geo. H. Stuart, Rev. S. J. Baird, d. d., John Wanamaker, A. M. Burton. 103 104 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Stamford, Conn. — Hennell Stevens. Trenton, N. J.—E. W. Scudder. Troy, JST. F.— Rev. Wm, H. Smith. Washington, D. C.—R.T.Morsell, William Ballantyne. Waterbury, Conn. — L. S. Davis, G. W. Beach. Upon the organization of the Convention, Geo. H. Stuart was chosen President ; Edward S. Tobey, Vice- President ; Cephas Brainerd and William Ballantyne, Secretaries. Messrs. Demond, Vernon, Wanamaker, Manierre, Baird, Colyer, and Stuart, were apj)ointed a Business Committee. The Convention was in session two days. The first day was occupied with statements and addresses, setting forth the wants of the army, and what had been done among the soldiers by the Washington and New York Associations, and by the Tract Societies of New York and Boston. Considerable time was spent in prayer, and the members of the Convention seemed to act in humble reliance upon the guidance and blessing of God. On the second day, Mr. Demond, from the Business Committee, presented the following report. After full discussion, the report was unanimously adopted, — the words " and marines" being added after the word " sailors," and the words " and others" after the word " chaplains," in the first resolution. The Committee appointed to prepare and present business to the Convention have attended to that duty, and beg leave to present the following resolutions, which, taken together, constitute a plan by means of which the Associations may work together in aid of the soldiers : — THE FIRST YEAE. L05 Resolved, 1. That it is the duty of the Young Men's Christian Associations to take active measures to promote the spiritual and temporal welfare of the soldiers in the army and the sailors [and marines] in t he navy, in co-operation with the chaplains [and others]. 'Resolved, 2. That a Christian Commission, consisting of twelve members, who shall serve gratuitously, five of whom shall be a quorum, and who may fill their own vacancies, be appointed to take charge of the whole work, with power to appoint one or more secre- taries, and such other agents as they may deem expedient, prescribe their duties, and fix their compensation. Resolved, 3. That the Commission report to the Associations and the public their doings and disbursements, through such widely cir- culating journals as will publish them. Resolved, 4. That we recommend that each Association appoint an Army Committee, who shall have the charge of collecting, receiv- ing, and transmitting contributions of all kinds for the soldiers, and be the medium of communication betweeii their several Associations and the Commission. Resolved, •">. That we have heard with satisfaction that our brethren in the army have in some instances organized themselves into reli- gious associations, and we hope the good work will go on till there is one in every regiment. Resolved, 6. That all organizations, designed to promote the spir- itual and temporal welfare of the army, be cordially invited freely to make use of the facilities afforded by the Commission. Resolved, 7. That the Associations be urgently recommended to institute immediate measures, by public meetings or otherwise, to obtain the necessary means for the expenses incident to the work of the Christian Commission. Whereas, It has been found by experience that a special tent for religious services is of great value, and a large number of chap- lains have expressed their desire for some such accommodations, therefore Resolved, That the officers of the Convention be directed to peti- tion the General Government to provide tents or other accommoda- tions, suitable for the holding of religious services. 14 106 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. The following persons were appointed by the Conven- tion, members of the Christian Commission : — „ , J Rev. Rollin H. Neale, d. d., -boston, < ( Charles Demond. Buffalo, John D. Hill, m. d. Chicago, John V. Fakwell. n- • t- f Rev. M. L. R. P. Thompson, d. d., Cincinnati, < TT _, {_ H. Thane Miller. (Rev. S. H. Tyng, d. d., New York, < Benj. F. Manierre, I Rev. Edmund S. Janes, d. d. t>i •; 7 7 7 • f Geo. H. Stuart, 1 hiladelphia, < _ _. _ {_ John P. Crozer. Washington, Mitchell H. Miller. The Commission, thus constituted, held a meeting during the last day of the Convention, Nov. 15, at the rooms of the New York Association. Geo. H. Stuart was elected permanent Chairman of the Commission, and B. F. Manierre, Secretary and Treasurer. A com- mittee was appointed to jDrepare a circular, setting forth what had been done and what it was proposed to do, to be sent to the several Young Men's Christian Associa- tions throughout the country. The day following, Nov. 16, this first Circular of the United States Christian Commission Avas issued, as follows : — Office of the Christian Commission, ' New York, Nov. 16, 1861. '} Dear Brethren : At a Convention of the Delegates of the Young Men's Christian Associations, held with the New York Association, m the city of New York, November 14 and 15, 1861, a Christian THE FIRST YEAR. 107 Commission 1 was appointed, under the resolutions herewith trans- mitted, and in their behalf we desire to urge upon you the import- ance lit' immediate and decided action upon the subject matter therein contained. The object sought to be attained by the Convention is the spiritual good of the soldiers, in the army, and incidentally their intellectual improvement and social and physical comfort. The Commission hopes to be able to establish such agencies as will effect these objects, and bring all the Associations into immediate connection with the work. We would ask your careful, earnest, and prayerful attention to all the resolutions, and in particular to the one in reference to the Army Committee, which we trust you will at once appoint, and send us their names. This work is of great magnitude, and to accomplish it properly will require the best exertions of us all. We would suggest that you take measures to interest all the people of your place in furnishing means to carry on the work, — the Commission being unable to pro- ceed without such financial aid. The chaplains wish our aid ; Christians in the army call for it ; and the precious souls of thousands, daily exposed to death and yet unprepared, demand it of us, in the name of Him who died for us. It is a field white unto the harvest. The soldiers are ready to hear the Word of God spoken in love, and to receive the printed pages. The government and General McClellan favor the work. Brethren, will you aid us ? We propose to take all the contributions in money we may receive and appropriate them to furnishing religious reading and teaching to the soldiers. We hope to use the money thus contributed, through voluntary channels, with little cost, so that what you may give us will nearly all be directly applied to the benefit of the army. We also propose to be a medium to convey to the army such articles for the comfort of the soldiers as friends may desire to send. Our object is not to convey them gratuitously, but to see that such articles quickly and surely reach those for whom they are intended. A general meeting of the Commission will soon be held, and the 1 The names, as above given, were here inserted, and the resolutions adopted by the Convention accompanied the Circular. 108 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. details will be given as soon as perfected. We shall hope for a speedy response from you, and shall be glad to give such further information as you may desire. All contributions and communications may be addressed to Hon. Benj. F. Manierre, No. 2J Wall Street, New York. Yours, in the Fellowship of the Gospel, Edmund S. Janes, ^ Charles Demond, V Committee. Benj. F. Manierre, j To the President of the Young Men's Christian Association. The second meeting of the Commission was held in Washington, D. C, December 10 and 11, 1861. Rev. Dr. Tyhg and Mr. Miller, of Cincinnati, resigned their places as members of the Commission, and the vacancies were filled by the appointment of Rev. B. C. Cutler, d.d., of Brooklyn, New York, for the first, and Col. Clinton B. Fisk, of St. Louis, Missouri, for the second. An Executive Committee of five was appointed, consisting of Messrs. Janes, Cutler, Stuart, Manierre, and Demond. A Plan of Operations was also drawn up and adopted. During this session of the Commission, opportunity was given for personal conference with the President, Secretary of War, Commanding General, and others in authority. They heartily approved the movement, and gave it their official endorsement. 1 The members of the 1 The subjoined correspondence will explain the statement of the text: — Washington, D. C, Dec. 11, 1861. To His Excellency, Phesident Lincoln : Dea>- Sir: At a recent convention of Delegates from Young Men's Christian Associations of the country, held in the city of New York, a committee of twelve gentlemen was appointed, denominated a Christian Commission, to take active measures to promote the spiritual and temporal welfare of the soldiers in the army, and the sailors and marines in the navy, in co-operation with chaplains and others. The Commission met in this city on yesterday, and have been devis- THE FIRST YEAR. 109 Commission also visited the severaJ camps across the Potomac, in the neighborhood of Washington. This first day's experience of actual intercourse with the men in the field made a deep and permanent impression. It ing plans for carrying out the object of their appointment. Before publishing their plans they desire an expression of your Excellency's approval, believing as tliev do that it will aid us very much in accomplishing the work committed to our bands. I have the honor to be yourobedienl servant, Geo. II. Stuart, Chairman Christian Commission. Executive Mansion. Washington, Dec. 12, 1861. Mi/ dear Sir: Your letter of the 11th inst. and accompanying plan, both of which are returned as a convenient mode of connecting this with them, have just been received. Your Christian and benevolent undertaking for the benefit of the soldiers is too obviously proper and praiseworthy to admit any difference of opinion. I sincerely hope your plan may be as successful in execution as it is just and generous in conception. Your obedient servant, A. Lincoln. Geo. H. Stuart, Esq. War Department, December 13. ISf.l. Sir: This Department approves the object of the " Christian Commission," as set forth in the circular announcing their appointment by a convention of the Delegates of the Young Men's Christian Associations, held in the city of New York, Nov. 14 and 15, 1861. This Department is deeply interested in the "spiritual good of the soldiers in our army," as well as in their "intellectual improvement, and social and physical comfort," and will cheerfully give its aid to the benevolent and patriotic of the land, who desire to improve the condition of our troops. It confidently looks for beneficial results from so noble an enterprise, and begs you to express to the Commisssion its sincere wish for the success of this great work in behalf of the soldier. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Simon Cameron, Secretary of War. Gbo. H. Stuart, Esq. Headquarters Army of rni: Potoh ic, 1 Washington, January 8, 1862. J Dear Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter, inform- ing me of the appointment, by the convention of the Young Men's Christian Associations, of a Commission to take active measures to promote the spiritual and temporal welfare of our soldiers and sailors. The objects of the Commission are such as meet my cordial approval, and will, if carried out in the proper spirit, prove of great value. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, George B. McCi.ellan. Geo. H. Stuart, Esq., Philadelphia. 110 AXXALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. was seen that the work to he done was vast and urgent. Among the regiments at Upton's Hill, Miner's Hill, Hall's Hill, and other points, and the patients in the hospital at Fall's Church, these Christian men, — the vanguard of several thousands of similar visitors yet to come, — were received with every demonstration of wel- come and delight. Their little stock of religious reading was most eagerly seized, their addresses and prayers were listened to with attention and reverence. For many of the soldiers there had heen a long dearth of religious privileges, and they were reminded of home again. If the convictions and emotions experienced that day by the seven members of the Christian Commission there present could have been transferred to all the Christian people of the land, these Annals would not show a six months' record of feebleness, hesitancy, and inactivity. The headquarters of the Commission were established at No. 2i Wall street, New York (the office of Mr. Manierre), where the Executive Committee held its first meeting, December 17, 1861. Mr. Stuart was elected Chairman of the Committee, a position which he con- tinued to hold, as also that of Chairman of the Commis- sion at large, during the entire period of its existence. At this meeting it was decided " to employ a General Agent for three months, at a salary not to exceed two thousand dollars a year." The Plan of Operations adopted at the meeting in Washington, preceded by an Address from the Execu- tive Committee, was submitted to the public in a Circu- lar, in January, 1862. This document, the first one issued after the Commission was fully organized, and the THE FIUST YEAR. Ill first official statement, for general circulation, of its pur- poses and plans, is of permanent interest, and is here given in full : — ADDRESS. Office of the Christian Commission, 1 New York, Jan. 13, 1862. J The Christian Commission met in "Washington, and arranged a Plan of Operations, which they now submit to the public, and call upon the friends of the soldier to aid them in their work. Their object is to promote the spiritual and temporal welfare of the brave men who now are in arms to put down a wicked rebellion. They propose to do this by aiding the chaplains and others in their work : 1. Bv furnishing to them religious tracts, periodicals, and books. '2. By aiding in the formation of religious associations in the several regiments. 3. By putting such associations in correspondence with the Chris- tian public. 4. By cultivating, as far as possible, the religious sympathies and prayers of Christians in their behalf. 5. By obtaining and directing such gratuitous personal labor among the soldiers and sailors as may be practicable. 6. By improving such other opportunities and means as may in the providence of God be presented. 7. By furnishing, as for as possible, profitable reading, other than religious, and, wherever there is a permanent military post, by estab- lishing a general library of such works. 8. By establishing a medium of speedy and safe intercommunica- tion between the men in the army and navy and their friends and families, by which small packages of clothing, books, and medicines, can be forwarded, ami mementoes of social affection can be inter- changed. Gentlemen, well-known and of high character, in various cities, have generously offered to give the time and attention needed to carry out this plan, and we hope to be able to appropriate to the benefit of the soldiers all contributions entrusted to us, with a small 112 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. expense for intermediate agencies. But we need money to provide religious and other reading for the army, and a very large sum can be judiciously and profitably used in this way. The Bible, Tract, and other benevolent publishing Societies will aid us, but they need funds. We must purchase books to a large extent, or leave many of the soldiers destitute. It is hoped that editors and publishers will furnish papers and books gratuitously, or at reduced prices. Second- hand books, also, will be welcomed gratefully by the soldier, and will be of value in making up the contemplated libraries. All contributions of books, and all packages and articles designed for the soldiers, may be sent to any member of the Commission, or of the District Committees, which will soon be published; or to the rooms of any Christian Association in the land, and they will be eared for and forwarded. Articles directed to any particular soldier, company, or regiment, will be carefully conveyed, the donor furnish- ing money to pay the expressage. Articles not particularly directed, will be distributed as the Commission shall deem best Contribu- tions in money may be sent to any member of the Commission, or to the District Committees, or to the Treasurer. All communications should be addressed to the Secretary and Treasurer, Hon. Benj. F. Maniorre, 2J Wall street. New York. There are over 700,000 men now in the army and navy, who have left the comforts of home to endure hardship, and it may be to die, for us. A large number of them have now no means of religious instruction, and all are exposed to the demoralizing influences of war. We propose to encourage in them whatever is good, and keep fresh in their remembrance the instructions of earlier years, and to develop, organize, and make effective, the religious element in the army and navy. The field is open to us. We can have free access to their immortal souls; the chaplains desire and call for our aid; the Government wish it ; and the men ask for and receive religious reading and teaching, with an eagerness most touching. Thousands, who at home never entered the house of God, and had none to care for their souls, now in imminent peril, desire to know of Him who can give them the victory over death, through our Lord Jesus Christ. The time is short ; what we do must be done quickly. Brethren and friends, we have made known to you our purposes and plan of operation. Our appeal is in the soldier's behalf. It is THE KIIJST YKAR. 113 for your sons and brothers, and for many, too, who have no parents or near relatives, that this work is undertaken. We beseech you by all that is valuable in our national institutions, nay, by all that is inspiring in the < Shristian faith, ami comforting in the hope of heaven, that you come promptly forward to encourage and sustain these young men in their patriotic service, ami to secure to them those precious spiritual blessings which are needed everywhere and at all times, hut especially by those whose lives are in jeopardy every hour, who are subject to suffering and want, and who at any moment may he .ailed to die on the Held of battle, far away from their lathers' sepulchres. Geo. H. Stuart, Ben.t. F. Manierre, Edmund S. .Tanks, Chas. Demons, Benj. C. Cutler, Executive Committee. PLAN OF OPERATION. 1. The office of the Commission shall be in the city of New York. [Changed to Philadelphia.] 2. There shall be an Executive Committee of five, who shall have full power to act for the Commission, subject to its approval, and shall report their action to the Commission at each meeting. The Committee shall correspond with all other committees of the Com- mission, and with all the Associations and other bodies who may co-operate with us, giving them such information and suggestions as will encourage and quicken them in their work, and shall also report their proceedings monthly through the press, giving credit to all societies and individuals who may contribute to the purposes of the Commission. The Executive Committee may convene the Commis- sion when they judge it necessary. 3. There shall he a General Committee of three in the citv of New York, who, with the Treasurer, shall receive all the contribu- tions of books and other articles given for the objects of the Com- mission, and apportion and forward the same to the committees hereinafter mentioned. 4. The field shall be divided into as many districts as ma] 1» 15 114 ANNALS OF THF. CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. found necessary. Each district shall have a committee of throe, to be appointed by the Commission, but who need not be members of the same, who shall receive, divide, and forward the books and all other contributions furnished, as in their judgment the necessities may lie found to exist ; and shall also, in their respective districts, super- intend all the operations and promote all the interests contemplated by this Commission. For this purpose they shall open a correspon- dence with one or more chaplains in each brigade in their respective districts. Where a regiment is found without a chaplain, they shall request the chaplain of some other regiment in the brigade to visit the regiment, and seek out the pious officers and soldiers, and induce them to form a religious association, to establish social meetings, and distribute religious publications, etc. Thev shall also correspond with the proper army officers, so as to be informed of the changes in the position of the different regiments, and of the facilities that may exist for carrying out the objects of the Commission. The com- mittee shall serve gratuitously, and shall report their proceedings, ami such interesting facts concerning the work as they may lie able to gather, at least monthly to the Executive Committee. Each com- mittee is authorized to pay such clerks as they may find it imprac- ticable to obtain gratuitously, and to incur such other incidental expenses as are unavoidable, — the funds furnished being considered as trust funds. It is understood to be the duty of the Army Com- mittees of the Christian Associations to procure funds, books, and periodicals, for the benefit ot' the army, and of each District Com- mittee to act ill conjunction with them; but where no such Associa- tion exists, the District Committee shall take measures to raise funds and contributions, receipt for the same, and report them to the Trea- surer t4' the Commission. 5. The Executive Committee, in conjunction with the District Committees, shall at once take measures to organize a plan by which the intercommunication between the men in the army and navy and their friends may be carried out, and communicate the same to the Christian Associations and to the public, as soon as matured. The foregoing exposition of the early purposes of the Commission clearly shows, what will become more niani- THE FIRST YEAR. 1 15 fesl as we proceed, that at the outset oo one well under- stood the precise work to be done, or the methods by which it could be accomplished, li was distinctly Been that there was a great opportunity and necessity for tem- poral and spiritual ministrations to the soldier-, and there was an earnest Christian and patriotic desire to be of service to the army and to the nation, but there was the absence of that practical knowledge which could only come through actual experience. 1 In this the Commis- sion exactly reflected the condition of the government and the nation. War of such magnitude and character was wholly unprecedented, and no one knew how to meet it, or to manage anything connected with it. Every- thing was improvised and incoherent, and experiment and use were requisite to competent organization. In- deed, it was wholly uncertain what the magnitude or continuance of the struggle was to be, — so much so that the Commission was unwilling to enter upon any arrange- ment, even with their General Agent, for more than three months. Hence it was inevitable that practi- cal experience should greatly modify the earliest plans and methods. The delegate system, which became the right hand of the Commission's strength, is hardly fore- shadowed in this first scheme of operations ; the distri- bution of stores and other material comforts became much 1 Mr. Demond writes to Mr. Stuart, under date of April 20, 1864, " In look- ing at the resolutions of the Convention which formed the Commission, lam more firmly convinced that the Lord was guiding us. I drew those n solutions with no very definite idea, and yet t rod 30 direct" ■ ; me that ill the main features el our work were there, or entirely in harmony with them. How small were our thoughts then, and how dark the way lor a long time in our early meetings i" New York ! Blessed he the Lord for the way ill which he has led Us. It is his doing, and marvelous in our eyes." 116 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. more prominent as the work grew, and their necessity and utility were made manifest ; while the transmission of private packages, so conspicuously put forward at first, was attended with unanticipated difficulty and perplexity, and was finally wholly abandoned as impracticable. It is to be said, however, that when the Christian Commis- sion fairly comprehended the situation and the work before it, it readily adapted itself to these, and became the fair exponent of the Christian life of the nation. There was at the outset an energy and a jmrpose about it that could not ultimately fail of reaching its mark. The evidence will be frequently and abundantly given that the Commission grew up from very small begin- nings, and grew also in its adaptations to varying cir- cumstances and wants, as only a movement could grow which had within it the most vigorous life. One of the most valuable historical lessons of this narrative will come from tracing, faithfully and fully, the changes which took place in the methods and operations of the ( lommission, as the true sphere of its action was clearly discerned, and as the jiopular Christian life which ani- mated it became more self-conscious and powerful. Whatever may have been the cause, the fact is mani- fest, that for eight or nine months after its formation the Commission accomplished very little. At a meeting of the Executive Committee held February 17, 1862, Mr. Manierre resigned his position as Secretary, retain- ing that of Treasurer. Rev. A. M. Morrison, who had for some time been gratuitously assisting Mr. Manierre, was appointed Secretary, which office he occupied without remuneration until the following July. Mr. Manierre resigned the treasurership in July, and was succeeded • THE FIRST FEAR. 117 by A. V. Stout, President ol' (he Shoe and Leather Bank, who also resigned within a tew weeks. Notwith- standing early and constant efforts, it was not until May 1, L862, that, a General A.gen1 was appointed. Rev. B. W. Chidlaw, of Cincinnati, after a personal interview with the Executive Committee at that time, was chosen for the service, hut felt compelled to decline a few days afterward, on account of ill-health and other considera- tions; Colonel John S. McCalmont, of Pennsylvania, was appointed June 6, bu1 declined; l!ev. Dr. Robert Patterson, of ( Ihicago, was appointed duly 10, and served live or six weeks, when he was succeeded by Rev. W. E. Boardman. The Christian Commission seems at first to have been regarded by the public, not with distrust, for there was hardly interest enough manifested to warrant the ascrip- tion of such a feeling, hut with genera] indifference. 'Idie prevailing uncertainty that attached to everything in the national affairs has been alluded to. Then there were numerous applicants for public favor in the Tract, Publication, and Sunday School Societies, and the Sani- tary Commission, and in the various local societies that started up all over the country, which proposed looking after the troops from their several Stall's or conimunit ies.' National feeling had not yet been sufficiently developed and hardened into unity of action, the solidity of sys- tematic organization and effective co-operation was want- 1 In explanntii f this, Rev. Mr. Morris the Secretory, writes to Mr Sin. hi under date of July 12, Isii-j, "There is greal confusion in the public mind, here in New York, among the numerous agencies busied in similar operations, and all making their appeal and claim i" the public in behalf of the army. Each party canvasses the ground on il own bi half, and men are disin- clined i" take up any more." 118 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. ing alike in the army and at home, and the government had neither learned to close the lines of the army against the multitude of the philanthropic and the curious, nor to use to advantage the spontaneous and abundant benevo- lence which was so freely proffered. The religious press was by no means forward to recognize and assist the Commission, although the first address and the notices of its earliest movements were published to a limited extent. Theodore Tilton, Editor of Tin Independent, writing to Mr. Stuart in May, 1864, says, "When tin' Christian Commission was first formed, and before it came under its later management, many excellent men in this city and elsewhere had only a partial confidence in it. As a consequence neither Mr. Beecher nor myself felt inclined to give it the support of The Independent." In confirmation of this statement it must lie remarked that more than a year elapsed before a permanent committee of gentlemen could be formed in New York, to take charge of the local work of the Com- mission in that city. The Young Men's Christian Asso- ciation at first performed this local service, but, on account .if some misunderstanding, they co-operated with the Commission only a few months. The prominent Christian men of the city stood aloof, although continu- ous and vigorous efforts were made to enlist their sympa- thy and assistance. 1 This is shown in the minutes of the Executive Committee, and in all the correspondence of that period. Under date of July 11, Mr. Norman White, who had yielded to solicitations to act for the 1 An Auxiliary or Branch Commission was organized in Now York City, December 8, L862, under the presidency of Mr. William E. Dodge. A detailed statement will be found in a subsequent chapter. THE FIRST VICAR. 11 'J Commission, notifies Mr. Stuart of his inability to gel the use of a church for a public meeting, 1 ami adds, " My conversation with them" — i. e., pastors of churches to whom application had been made — " and some others, leads me to a conclusion in reference to the present position or status of the Christian Commission in our city, not nearly as favorable as I had hoped. While this organization has dune hut little, others have been very active, and have kept their work constantly before the public So great are the difficulties which present themselves, that 1 am compelled to decline any position on the Commission until it can be placed on a different tooting." A letter of Mr. Morrison to Rev. Dr. Patterson, dated July IS, presents a vivid picture of the condition of things at the office of the Commission. It would be amusing also, from the present point of view, did we not know that at the same time "there were acres of sick and wounded soldiers in General McClellan's army, without any cover save a blanket, with the thermometer at 100 in the shade, and except the agents of the Chris- tian Commission none to tell them of the wav of life.*'-' Mr. Morrison was about leaving the city for the summer, and found it necessary to make some disposal of the Commission's property. He therefore reports to the General Agent the condition of affairs, and (urns the 1 Mr. Morrison, referring to the same matter, writes to Mr. Stuarl under date of Jul; 1">. "Mr. White failed to get any church for the meeting, and now dei lines to net further. Unless 1 gel a • one before to-morrow, p.m., it will In- useless to attempt n meeting for next Sunday, and I don't know which way to tiifii lor our. I have already pulled in vain all tin- strings at my command." ■ Rev. David Steele, as quoted in :i letter from Mr. Stuart to .Mr. Norman White, dated July 1".. 120 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. property over to him. He writes from 21 Park Place, where the office then was, — the store occupied by Mr. Stuart for his personal business in New York: — There is little to be attended to here, except in the case of Mr. Stuart's removing from the store, which is expected on or about the 1st of August. Then somebody will have to be here, and see the assets of the Christian Commission removed to some other office or place of storage The assets referred to and on hand here will be shown you by the porter of the store. They consist of a mahogany table with green top and two drawers, two chairs (oak), the books, stationery, stamps, etc., etc., in the desk which I have been using here ; and in the upper basement a lot of miscellaneous books, pam- phlets, magazines, newspapers, etc., which have come in in little parcels since the last were sent away ; together with coal scuttle and scoop, hammer and box-opener, marking-pot and materials, brushes, etc., paper, twine, nails, etc.; and in the lower basement two barrels of old papers, all of which the porter will show you. The postage stamps (viz.: 85 red and 50 blue) are in a buff envelope, addressed ti> you, under the note paper in the little right hand drawer of the desk I am using. There are also a few loose ones, blue and red, in the box of pens, in the back part of the same drawer. This will, I believe, give you command of all that belongs to the Christian Commission. In a letter of reminiscences from Mr. Morrison, dated June 21, 1866, this feeblest period of the Commission's history is graphically portrayed, and with some extracts from it we will pass to a more encouraging record : — When I took the temporary position of Secretary everything was in utter confusion. No papers were passed over to me, and the operations and communications of the Commission were at so low an ebb that very few accumulated in my possession for weeks You can judge of the complete feebleness of the Commission at the time, when I tell you that I found it impossible to command funds sufficient to rent permanently even the merest corner of an office, and during the whole of my tenure it was beaten about from THE FIRST YEAR. 121 pillar in post, in the endeavor to 6nd a place where it might remain for a time on sufferance, or for the mere pittance of office-rent its treasury could then afford. The office i by courtesy) of the Commis- sion was thrice shifted during the few months of my Secretaryship, — no, four times. It was first in Mr. Manierre's Insurance Office, No. 2j Wall street; then at No. 2 Battery Place; then in Broadway just above Wall street, fourth story; and last in a store temporarily occupied by Mr. Stuart's business, '21 Park Place I gave my entire time to it for some months, and was deeply interested in its work. The only thing to which I can look back with any satisfac- tion in my own administration, — if I may apply so dignified a name to it, — is the Tact that there was a pretty frequent and pretty united and earnest prayer meeting of one, daily, in behalf of the Christian ( lommission's work. I can think of nothing worth chronicling in the way of annals of the Christian Commission during the period preceding Rev. Mr. Boardman's appointment to the Secretaryship, which I most joy- fully yielded over into his hands. It would lie luit a sorry detail of abortive attempts to enlist the press, to enlist men of weight, to extend the organization, to stir up branch committees throughout the North, and generally to revive our work, which just at that moment seemed about to drop into complete inanition. But it was tint till discouragement, even during this darkest hour. There was, in a few places at least, — especially in Philadelphia and Boston, — a growing interesl in the Commission. As we have seen, the Young Men's Christian Associations of these and several Other cities early engaged with vigor in work for the army, alike in the camps at home and among the soldiers in the (iekl; hut the Boston and Philadelphia Associa- tions from the first gave hearty co-operation and support to the Christian Commission. In the closing months of the year other Associations gave similar assistance. Some local societies and benevolent individuals also sent their benefactions for the soldiers through this channel. 16 122 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Up to August 20, 18G2, as reported by the Chairman at a meeting of the Commission at that elate, the cash receipts were $5,002, and the value of books and stores donated was $11,880.75. Most important of all, on May 14, 1862, the first deputation was sent to the army for personal work among the soldiers, — "agents," as they were then called; "Delegates," as these workers were afterwards universally named. They numbered fourteen, — ten clergymen and four laymen. They went out as a delegation from the Philadelphia Young Men's Christian Association, but held their authority from the Christian Commission and acted under its direction, receiving from it money and supplies. This was the beginning of a unique and mighty movement. 1 Other Delegates followed from day to day, so that at the meeting of August 20 it was reported that fifty-five had been sent out, of whom nine were still in the field. At this August meeting several changes were made. Rev. Dr. Cutler resigned from the Commission. Rev. Dr. Patterson resigned his position as General Agent, " on account of his duties to his church," at the same time " expressing his gratitude for the opportunity of engaging; for a time in this blessed work." Rev. AV. E. Boardman was appointed to the office. Mr. Boardman 1 This was not the first experiment of such service in the army, although the first by the Commission. Besides the visits of Mr. Colyer and his coadjutors, from the New York Association, as already noticed, the St. Lonis and Chicago Associations sent delegates to Fort Donelson, after its fall, February 10, 1SG2, and to the battle-field of Pittsburg Landing, April 7. The Third Animal Report, p. IB, says, ''With his own hand General Grant wrote the pass and order for transportation for Rev. Robert Patterson, D. v., and his companions, who, with Messrs. B. F. Jacobs and D. L. Moody, ministered to the wounded at Fort Donelson." THE FIRST YEAR. 123 bad previously spent several weeks in visiting, in behalf of the Commission, the military hospitals and posts in Maryland and Virginia, "opening up the way" for the services of Delegates. Addresses were also prepared, which were afterwards issued, appealing to the Christian public and to the Young Men's Christian Associations for co-operation and assistance. Messrs. Stuart and Demond were constituted a Committee to which were referred, with full powers, the filling of vacancies exist- ing in the Commission and the Executive Committee, the location of the headquarters of the Commission; the obtaining of an office, and the appointment of a Treasurer. No subsequent meeting, either of the Commission or the Executive Committee, was held during the year. But the work was carried forward, with continual increase, under the superintendence of the Chairman, who was in constant communication, in person and by letter, with the other members of the Committee. The Delegates to the army soon discerned more clearly some- thing of the nature and extent of the necessities to be met. They visited the more important battle-fields of the Army of the Potomac and at the AVest, and were with the wounded and sick in the Held hospitals, upon the transports, and in the large general hospitals estabr lished near the seat of war. The hospitals located in our Northern cities, and remote from the army, were, as ;i general rule, wisely and safely left to local patriotism and sympathy for extra-governmental assistance, except such superintendence and organization of the abundant Voluntary relief as mighl devolve upon the Army Com- mittee or Young Men's Christian Association of the 124 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. place. These army labors of the Commission, then, during the year, included General McClellan's Penin- sula campaign, with the seven days' fight before Rich- mond; the battles of Bull Run (second of that name). South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Murfrees- boro'; General Banks's New Orleans Expedition; be- sides the hospitals at Yorktown, Acquia Creek, Fal- mouth, Fortress Monroe. Alexandria, Camp Convales- cent. Washington, Annapolis, Baltimore, Point Lookout, Frederick, Louisville, Nashville, etc., etc. The experience acquired from these labors, and the reports made, had a very important bearing upon the plans of the Commission, and did much towards inform- ing and directing the sentiment of the people at home. What was needed and what was practicable became better understood. It was seen that the Commission could, if properly organized and administered, do a valuable work that would otherwise he left undone, in saving life, secur- ing bodily comfort, and preaching the gospel to the army. The relations of the Commission to the government. and to the military, medical and clerical authorities in the held, readily adjusted themselves as the parties came to know each other from personal intercourse, and could thus understand what was really desirable. There was at first occasional friction both with the military and medical officers. When it is remembered that there were many societies and individuals asking for special government favors, and that the Commission was not vet compactly organized, nor its national character estab- lished, it will not be regarded as strange that Mr. Stanton, Secretary of War, 1 and General Halleck, Commander- 1 Secretary Stanton became the steadfast friend of the Commission. On THE FIKST YEAR. 125 in-Chief, sometimes placed restrictions upon its act inn which at the time seemed severe and were undoubtedly needless. It is perhaps true that some of the officers of the army were never heartily favorable to the Commis- sion, but these were few in number. Restrictions were gradually removed, as those in the highest authority became satisfied that the operations of the Commission would be for the permanent advantage of the soldiers. 1 On several occasions General McClellan, while at the bead of the Army of the Potomac, manifested bis interest in the Commission, by letter and in conversation with the Delegates, and declared his readiness to accord it every proper facility. The surgeons, in the beginning, were hardly favorable to the presence among their patients of men who bad neither professional training nor experience, and whose only recommendation was the earnest desire to do good. But it was found upon experiment that the Delegates were practical men, that they could do much in many ways to alleviate the terrible and almost boundless suffer- ing, and that their words of comfort, delicacies of \'<»»], and religious ministrations, were in themselves sanitary agencies of the greatest value.' 2 So the surgeons were in time conciliated, and their natural j^rofessional prejudice overcome. Many of them volunteered their grateful several occasions he granted to it extraordinary facilities, and signified his readiness to do whatever might he asked, — using his personal and official influence in behalf of the Commission's interest. 1 See Note at close of chapter. •' Rev. S. Hopkins Emory, oi'Quincy, Illinois, writing under date ofNov. 1 1, 1863, speaks of having statedly held religious services in two of the hospitals tin-re during the previous year, and adds, "Tin- physicians in charge testify thai ii has been an advantage to the men in every particular. Prayer, or some sweet hymn of praise, i- oftentimes better than medicine." 126 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. testimony to the efficient and opportune labors of the Commission. Under date of Nov. 22, 1862, after having several times temporarily placed restrictions upon the Commission's agents, Surgeon-General William A. Ham- mond wrote, " I shall always be ready to aid the United States Christian Commission in any way that may be in my power." The chaplains could not fail to welcome the Commis- sion, when they came to understand it fully, for it was their chief ally, the open channel to the abundance of the church at home, and they joyfully testified their gratitude for hospital supplies, religious reading, and personal assistance. But of vastly greater worth and satisfaction than all this official endorsement and approval, was the welcome given by the thousands of common soldiers in all parts of the army, and in every arm of the service. No grati- tude was like theirs, and no official commendation at all comparable to their hearty and constant "God bless you." In the language of General Grant, " To the Com- mission the army felt the same gratitude that the loyal public felt for the services rendered by the army." The Christian Commission was for the soldier the representa- tive of home and kindred, and the old Sunday-school and church; and its most enduring record is in the rescued lives, revived hopes, relieved pains, and penitent si nils led to Christ, among those who filled the places of peril and suffering along our widely extended lines. Most of the leading telegraph, railroad, steamboat, and express companies, whose facilities were essential to the prompt performance of the Commission's work, signified their readiness to serve the Commission THE FIRST YEAR. 127 either without charge or at a large discount from usual rates. The American Bible Society, the two national Tract Societies, and other Publication Societies and Boards began that assistance by grants and co-operation which subsequently became systematic and must import- ant. Meanwhile the action of all the various influences suggested drewupon the Commission more and more the attention of the public. The religious and secular press gave accounts of its movements, and published extracts from the reports and letters of its Delegates. The Dele- gates themselves, on returning to their homes, told the story of their new and wonderful exjierience to their churches and communities, and thus made known the necessities and opportunities presented by the army. Soldiers who had been helped by the Commission con- firmed its statements by letters to their friends, and thus became efficient canvassing agents for its treasury. Numerous public meetings were held, in cities and towns, addressed by those who had been upon the field, im- parting information, quickening sympathy, and organ- izing the growing interest and benevolence. Especially to those Christian people who saw" with delight that by the method of the Commission's distribution, through volunteer and unpaid Delegates, there was a certainty that the soldiers received what was sent them, and that with a care for bodily relief the chief place was given to Spiritual needs, the Commission commended itself as the iiiu-t economical, direct, comprehensive, and efficient of the several benevolent agencies in the field. Mr. Demond writing from Boston under date of duly '_' 1, L862, speaks of the increased favor toward the < 'oininis- sion after the earliest Delegates had gone to the army. 128 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. He says, " The two ideas, of spiritual aid and the direct giving of needed articles to the sick and wounded hy known and trusty agents, are powerful with us." These two ideas were the basis and life of the delegate system, which developed itself with great rapidity and became the means of incalculable good. It was the Commission's principal distinction and chief strength. Of course the effect of the movements in the several departments of the Commission's work was felt most powerfully by the central organization. It was seen that to co-operate efficiently with the army, and to use advan- tageously the enlarging benevolence of the Christian public, there must be more system at home and in the field. Delegates were left too much to their own dis- cretion, which was not always wise ; and there was too much dependence for resources upon the undirected generous impulses of the people, which were not always safe. Thoroughly to organize the work, in its two great branches of sujjply at home and relief in the army, was the pressing necessity. This was no easy task, for the work continually outgrew the channels made for it, and could not be overtaken. Philadelphia, the residence of the Chairman, had be- come during the summer of 1862 the centre of the Com- mission's business. It could hardly be otherwise than that its main office should be located there, as the reasons for fixing it in New York had been counterbalanced by other considerations. Mr. Demond, who with Mr. Stuart had been constituted a committee to fill vacancies and make necessary changes, wrote to Mr. Stuart, from Boston, Sept, 6, 1862, " My own opinion is that it is best to make the headquarters at Philadelphia, having THE FIRST YEAR. 129 the Treasurer there ; and adding the Treasurer to the Executive Committee, and putting Mr. Crozer on the Executive Committee, so that you will have a quorum there." Mr. Stuart writes to Mr. Morrison, Secretary, from Philadelphia, Sept. 0, "The headquarters seem to be settling in this city, whether we will or not." Mr. Morrison replies from South Orange, N. J., Sept. 12, "It seems almost inevitable, under the peculiar circum- stances of the Commission, that the headquarters should settle in Philadelphia." Several changes therefore were made in September, 1 so that at the meeting of the Com- mission held in Philadelphia, January 29, 1863, " the committee with power to fill vacancies in the Commission and Executive Committee, and to establish the place of headquarters," reported, " That they had appointed Rev. James Eells, d. d., of Brooklyn, and Jay Cooke, Esq., of Philadelphia, upon the Commission, in place of B. F. Mauierre and Rev. Dr. Cutler, resigned; and John P. Crozer and Jay Cooke on the Executive Committee ; Joseph Patterson, Esq., of Philadelphia, Treasurer, in place of B. F. Manierre, resigned ; and Rev. W. E. Boardman, Secretary, in place of Rev. Archibald M. Morrison, resigned; and established the headquarters in Philadelphia, in the office and store of the Chairman, (13 Bank street), who has given their use to the Com- mission." 2 This report was approved, and the action of 1 A letter from Mr. Deruond to Mr. Morrison, dated " No. 13 Bank street, Philadelphia, Sept., 1862," shows that he was at that time in consultation witli Mr. Stuart, and that the new appointments for the Commission and Execu- tive Committee, and to the offices of Secretary and Treasurer, had just been agreed upon. 2 The headquarters thus secured for the Commission were ample and con- venient. They were generously given by Mr. Stuart, rent free, during the 17 loO ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. r the Committee confirmed. Also, the several addresses prepared and voted in August were published in the early autumn, and thus the work of the Commission was more fairly brought before the public. 1 The Executive Committee as newly organized, con- sisted of Geo. H. Stuart (chairman), Rev. E. S. Janes, of New York, Charles Demond, of Boston, John P. Crozer and Jay Cooke, of Philadelphia. (The Secre- tary and Treasurer, although attending the meetings of the Committee and advising with it, were not added as members ex officio until 18(J4.) A meeting was held at the new office, January 8 and 9, 1863. Besides arrang- war. Bank is a small street, intermediate between Second and Third, and leading from Market to Chestnut. The building of Messrs. Stuart & Brother is a neat and substantial brick, fireproof, four stories in height above the base- ment, about sixty feet wide, comprising the two Nos., 11 and 13, and extending in length from Bank to Strawberry street, about one hundred and thirty feet. At first the Commission occupied a corner in Mr. Stuart's private office, in No. 13, but was soon removed to the second floor of No. 11, — a spacious room thirty feet wide by one hundred and thirty feet long. The Bank street front was used for office purposes, while the remainder of the room was used for packing and shipping the various purchases and donations of goods and read- ing matter. Other accommodations for storage, etc., were furnished when needed. 1 Rev. Alexander Reed, then of Parkesburg, Pa., now of Philadelphia, was appointed General Superintendent, November 1, 1862, after having done good service as delegate in two or three visits to the army. Mr. Reed's official connection with the Commission continued about five months, for which his church granted him leave of absence. His duties were many and various, and were discharged with zeal, fidelity, and efficiency, — sometimes calling him to the army, sometimes keeping him at the central office, and again requir- ing him to address public meetings or organize the work at some important point. At the end of the period named Mr. Reed returned to his pastorate, as there was no indication of an early close of the war, and his church greatly needed his presence. The office of General Superintendent or General Agent was not continued beyond Mr. Reed's term of service, — the better organiza- tion of the Commission showing that the duties of this position could be more satisfactorily discharged by being distributed among the executive officers at home and the agents in the field. THK FIRST YEAR. 131 ing for a public anniversary and general meeting of the Commission, and adopting measures for a more vigorous and systematic prosecution of its work at home and in the army, some questions were acted upon winch affected its policy and the scope of its operations. It was also " Voted, That it is highly important to obtain free access to the armies and to the field hospitals within the army lines, for the prosecution of the work of the Commission by its delegates; ami that Bishop , lanes ho requested to take charge of the matter, and if need be to visit Wash- ington to make the necessary arrangements with the Government." The duty thus devolved upon Bishop Janes was performed as soon as practicable. At the meeting of the Commission, January '2'K he reported that he had visited Washington, that he was cordially received by the Secretary of War, and had received from him, in his own handwriting, the following MEMORANDUM. Washington City, January 24. 1S63. Bishop Janes is authorized to state that he lias received assur- ance from the Secretary of "War, that every facility consistent with tlir exigencies of the service will be afforded to the Christian Com- mission, for the performance of their religious and benevolent pur- puses in the armies of the United States, and in the forts, garrisons, and camps, and military posts. E. M. Stanton. A meeting of the Commission at huge was held, as above indicated, at the rooms id' the Young Men's ( Ihris- tian Association, Philadelphia, Thursday, January 1".'. 1863. Six of the twelve members were present. — Geo. H. Stuart, Bishop 10. S. Janes, ('has. Demond, J. I). Hill, M. H. Miller, J. P. Crozer, — with the Secretary and Treasurer. The work of the vear was reviewed. 132 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. the action of the Executive Committee and of the Com- mittee to fill vacancies was approved, and new plans laid for the future. In the evening of the same day the first public anniversary was held in the Academy of Music, Mr. Stuart in the chair. The immense audience-room, according to the papers of the day, ''was crowded to overflowing with a highly respectable audience." An abstract of the Annual Report was read by the Secretary; addresses were delivered by the Chairman, Rev. Dr. Robert Patterson, Bishop Matthew Simpson, Col. S. M. Bowman, Hon. Wm. E. Dodge, and Ex-Governor James Pollock. The devotional exercises were conducted by Rev. Drs. R. Newton and J. H. Kennard. Similar public meetings, or repetitions of the anniversary, were held in New York, Boston, and Washington. In New York, at the Academy of Music, Sunday evening, Feb. 8; Lieutenant-General Scott pre- sided, and addresses were made by Major-General Burn- side, Colonel McKean, Geo. H. Stuart, Rev. Dr. S. H. Tyng, Hon. W. E. Dodge, and Revs. Alex. Reed. H. D. Ganse, and J. T. Durvea. In Boston, at Music Hall, Sunday evening, Feb. lo ; E. S. Tobey presided, and addresses were made by Rev. Dr. John Cotton Smith, Rev. Geo. J. Mingins, and Geo. H. Stuart. In Washington City, in the Hall of the House of Repre- sentatives, by special vote of the House, Sunday evening, Feb. L'L', — Washington's Birth-day; Chief-Justice S. P. Chase presided, and addresses were made by Major- General O. O. Howard, Rear- Admiral A. H. Foote, Hon. Horace Maynard, Ex-Governor James Pollock, Rev. Dr. W. J. R, Taylor, Rev. J. T. Duryea, Geo. II. Stuart, and Jos. Patterson. THE FIRST YEAK. 133 These public meetings in the principal Eastern cities, largely attended as they were and widely reported, made the Commission more fully known throughout the country, as to what it had accomplished, its methods of operation, and its purposes for the future. It should be remarked also that several of the Young Men's Chris- tian Associations and Army Committees, in the large cities of the West and elsewhere, in hearty co-operation it' not organic union with the Christian Commission, held public meetings, — anniversaries or others. — at the same season with the anniversaries in the East, and thus greatly aided in enlarging the influence and use- fulness of the Commission. The work of the Commission for the year is given in the subjoined statistics, — so far as the figures preserved can set forth such a work. They were presented at the first Anniversary and published in the first Annual Report. Resides indicating the range of the Commis- sion's operations, they show also from what Associations and Army Committees, and to what extent, it received CO-operation during the first year of its history. "In addition to these," says the Annual Report, " there is much worthy of especial mention, of which no record has been kept. For example, a large number of ( hristian men and women have been associated as helpers with our Delegates and committees in their work in hos- pitals and camps, not included in the 1033 reported; also, the meetings at the seat of war with the soldiers, amounting to many thousands; also, many thousands of letters written for the soldiers to their friends, or to obtain discharges and descriptive lists." 134 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. REPORTS OF THE TREASURERS. B. F. Maniekee, Treasurer, in account with Christian Commission. Dr. To private subscriptions, acknowledged in papers $915 37 To i asli receii ed from Army Com. \ , M. C. A., Troy 79 42 To cash received from Army Cum. Y. M. C. A., Boston 100 00 To i ash received from Army Com. Y.M. C. A^Buffalo 50 00 To cash received from Army Com. Y. M. C. A.. Amsterdam 51 72 $1,196 51 CR. By bills paid For Commission $860 15 " incidental expenses 51 03 " eXJieiiM'Sot' Pele-atr- 141 SS " Geo. II. Stuart, Acting Treasurer, Philadelphia, remitted uim 100 00 " Joseph 1'atterson, Treasurer, Phila- delphia, to close accounts 43 45 51,196 01 New Yore, Avffiut, 1862. Geo. II. Stuart, Acting Treasurer, in account with Christian Commission. Br. To private subscriptions, acknowledged in papers $4,S69 35 To cash received from Ai my Com. Y. M. C. A., Boston 3,405 00 To i ash received from Ai m\ Com. Y. M. C A.. Portland 62 60 To cash received from B. F. Manierre, Treasurer, New York 100 00 88,436 95 Cn. By expenses Delegates and Agem ies ....$2,648 59 " freight paid* 392 76 " incidental expenses paid 54 15 " billspaid 3,767 L3 •■ Joseph Patterson, to close accounts.. 1,674 32 S\43t; '.'."> Philadelphia, fifeptemoer 24, 1882. Joseph Patterson, Treasurer, in account with Christian Commission, Dr. To cash received from B. F. Manierre, late Treasure! $43 45 'in i ash received from Geo. H. Stuart, late Acting Treasurer 1,574 32 To private subscriptions, acknowledged in papers 8,590 99 To cash received from Army Com. Y. M. C. A, Boston 1.100 00 To cash received from Army Com. Y. M. C. A., Brooklyn 100 00 To cash received from Army Com. Y. M. C. A., St. Louis 1,114 00 To cash received from Army Com. Y'. M. C. A., Albany 52 SI To cash received from Army Coin, Y.M. C. A., Bangor, Maine 86 75 To cash received from Army Com. Y. M (\ A.. Bntfulo 228 90 Cr. By expenses Delegates and \ ■ mi it - -J, 550 92 " billspaid 8,947 97 •■ freightpaidl 719 21 •■ balance, cash on baud 673 09 $12.^91 22 Philadelphia January 29, 1S63. $12,891 22 l Most of these freight expenses were paid prior to arrangements with many roads for free trans- portation. 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A o © - r - — — — - t t- : - 1 /: :: o) © -4" sil- *fS DO © *» is -3 "*§■* goo © : © © © © • u~ 01 © : s ! eo © ■ i- r. © so .r-rtH - CO pH : i — hm : ©, °- ■is © : © © : oi :r co : : C* if -* So ; c* © : •- : : : ss CO • ■ : ' : : J • c : '■'■'■ 1 o ■ * x "3 £ o - an V * tip : : i ^ : k = ■ - S o ti = : i i : sJ iS - ■: ! , H 1 aglii § sia i £ t - .^- ^ a - >- o r I - ® ■3 ^ •_ o -a & © ** © NOTE TO CHAPTER II. GOVERNMENT FACILITIES WITHIN ARMY LINES. (See page 125.) Tin: following facts are given, as illustrating the varying action of Government in granting facilities to the Commission : — In the closing days of June, 1862, occurred the seven days' battles before Richmond. The Delegates of the Commission wished to go forward, but were stopped at Baltimore. The Provost Marshal tele- graphed Mr. Stuart from Baltimore, June 30: — They can go upon showing evidence that they are in the service of the ( tovernment, or have the permission or sanction of the Secretary of War. Geo. K. Dodge, Provost Marshal. The special sanction of the Secretary of War was sought, but denied by the following telegram, daled Washington, June 30, 18112, 3 o'clock 30 inin. p. m.: — For military reasons the passes for which yon apply cannot lie granted. By order of the Secretary of War. Jons TrciiER, Assl Sec'y War. The next day, for reasons not explained by the correspondence now extant, the Delegates were allowed to proceed, as is seen by a telegram dated at Baltimore, duly 1, 1862: — Oar [Kisses were cheerfully granted. We go down to-morrow. Jno. II. Castle, Geo. w. Anderson. Four days later the Provost Marshal at Baltimore again tele- graphs Mr. Stuart, under date of July 5: — Aii order from the Secretary of War. dated July 1, precludes from issuing permits except to those in the military and naval service. Application must be made to Surgeon-General W. A. Hammond, at Washington. Geo. K. Dodge, Provost Marshal. The Surgeon-General, being applied to, telegraphed from Wash- ington to Mr. Stuart, under date of July 10: — THE FIRST YEAR. Vo~ None but Government employes are now permitted to go to Army of the Potomac. Qualified physicians and nurses will be employed, and passes Bent tin in, Km not for a less period than three months. W. A. Hammond, Surgeon-Qeaeral. On the 23d of July, the Surgeon-General again telegraphs Mr. Stuart, in reply to another application: — No more passes are granted. Wm. A. Hammond. Efforts being continually made, by the representatives of the Com- mission in Washington and at other points, to get Delegates through the lines, they were more or less successful, with constant interrup- tions and delays, so that men were sent forward every few days. But the restrictions were nol permanently removed, nor were they imposed seemingly upon any principle or with consistency of action. In the latter part of July, a rigorous order to exclude civilians from tin' army was interpreted by the authorities at Baltimore and For- tress Monroe as applying to the Delegates of the Christian Commis- sion. Under date of August 1, Mr. Stuart communicated this fact to General McClellan, and requested that the interpretation be so modified as not to shut out the Commission's Delegates. General McClellan replied from the Headquarters Army of the Potomac, August 5, as follows: — Iain directed by the Commanding Genera] to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 1st instant, and to say that he lakes pleasure in the compli- ance with y 'request. Letters liave Keen addressed to the Provost Marshal ai Baltimore, and General I'ix, at Fortress Monroe, requesting that the agents of the Christian Commission he granted passes to visit this army, on your application. I am, very respectfully, Your obedient servant. S. Willi IMS I i [(Ijuiai)l-General, In August, Rev. W. E. Boardman was deputed to go to Wash- ington, to consult with the President and others, and to secure per- manently, if possible, access to the army. He writes to Mr. Stuart, August 16, 18G2, of the "decisive visit of the day" to (uncial Halleck: — "His answer was brief, definite, and decisive. All hos- pitals and camps tins side of Virginia are open to us tin- our agents is 138 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. and supplies, and all supplies for the army in Virginia will be duly forwarded and faithfully delivered as we may direct, but no passes will be given at present to go to any part of the army in Virginia. The arrangement of General McClellan with the Commission is revoked. No exceptions will be made under any circumstances." The reason given is that such favors will "bring upon them a swarm of applications from others." Mr. Boardman remarks, " This rigid rule is understood to be temporary, and may soon be relaxed." August 30, Mr. J. W. Garrett, President of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, telegraphed Mr. Stuart from Baltimore: — I have instructions from the War Department regarding parties going to aid of tin- wounded in late battle. I will order all tickets by you for this object to bo recognized without pay by parties holding, and will arrange the same with the Government at Washington, and am satisfied that a large number can accomplish much good by labor among the wounded if promptly present. Two days later, Sept. 1, Surgeon-General Hammond telegraphs Mr. Stuart from Washington: — An abundance of surgical assistance and medical supplies is on hand. August 28, 1862, Mr. Stuart addressed the Secretary of War, pro- posing, in behalf of the Commission, "to furnish, free of expense to the Government, two chaplains for each division of the army." The Secretary replied, Sept. 18, through his Assistant, Mr. P. II. Wat- son : — The Secretary of War directs me to ... . inform you that on reference to the Surgeon-General lie reports as follows — "From the records of this office it appears that many more chaplains arc appointed than there are posi- tions to which to assign them. It is my opinion that the services of the chap- lains here offered, being entirely voluntary, would be entirely independent of military authority, and I recommend that this offer be declined." The next official note preserved is from Surgeon-General Ham- mond, dated at Washington, Nov. 22, 1862, in which he says: — I shall always be ready to aid the Christian Commission in any way that is in my power. A letter from the Commission to Major-General Burnside, then THE FIRST TEAK. 139 commanding the Army of the Potomac, dated Nov. 26, 1802, speaks of the pleasant relations with General McClellan, asks for a continu- ance of favors, and says, " We desire nothing new, unless the recent change of command and position renders it necessary." Still the way was more or less hedged up. Letters from Mr. l!ul- lantync, Rev. Alexander Reed (General Superintendent), Mr. F. E. Shearer (Agent at Washington), and others, during November, December, and January, speak of their persistent endeavors, aided by prominent public men, to get passes, and keep the way open ; but generally without avail. Mr. Reed writes from Washington, Dec. 13, — "I could wee]i in secret places all night, over the distress- ing and annoying fact that men arc suffering and we can't relieve them I have tried every avenue in vain." Transportation was granted for stores, but not for Delegates. The chief hindrance seemed to be with Secretary Stanton 1 and General Halleck, and the chief objection was that they did not want " a loose, unmanageable element, outside of military and medical control," which they had had "difficulty in controlling on former occasions." January 24, 1863, Secretary Stanton gave to Rev. Bishop E. S. Janes the memorandum printed on p. 131. The following telegram, dated at the War Department, May 9, was received the same day in New York, and reached the office in Philadelphia May 11 (Monday): — Rev. Bishop Junes: — General Hooker has given positive directions that alien. lance and medical supplies >liall net lie allowed to go down until called for. Tlie information received by the Department is that at present the atten- dance and supplies are ample, and in view of the limited means of land trans- portation, compared with the enormous demand for supplies, there should be no encumbrance by superfluity. I am happy to say that reports to the Depart- ment show the great energy and beneficial results of your Association, and every facility consistent with imperative military necessity will be accorded. E. M. Stanton. Under date of May 14, 1863, Mr. Cole wrote to Mr. Stuart:— Iliad yesterday an interview with General Patrick, and I am happy to say that 1 have got the promise of passes for all regular Delegates. So I think in future there need be no delay in furnishing Delegates, who are to remain from six to eight weeks, with passes. Transportation for stores is also secured, and everything seems to he right tor a successful work. 1 See p. LSI, and the u tt there. 140 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Brigadier-General M. R. Patrick, here referred to, was Provost Marshal General in the Army of the Potomac from November, 1862, until the close of the war. The Commission found in him a constant and most faithful friend. He watched over its interests with the love of a Christian and the fidelity of a soldier, giving it at all times the wisdom of his personal counsels and the influence of his office. As Provost Marshal General he issued all passes for the Army of the Potomac, except in special cases, and he fully kept the above promise to the Commission unto the end. At a meeting of the Executive Committee of the Commission, held May 22, 1863, Bishop Janes and Mr. Demond were appointed a special committee, and empowered to proceed to Washington, " to endeavor to adjust permanently with the authorities the matter of passes, transportation, and facilities within army lines, in the various Military Departments East and West." This committee reported at a meeting held August 10, that they "had interviews with Secretary Stanton and various army officers, and obtained assurances that every facility consistent with military necessities shall be granted." At the meeting just referred to, August 10, the question was pre- sented, growing out of representations from the Commission's agents in the West, " What shall be done to secure certain additional facili- ties in the Army of the Cumberland?" It was referred to Mr. Demond, with instructions to draw up a letter, to be addressed by the Chairman to the Secretary of War. This was done. The Secre- tary replied, by asking for "a more specific statement of the facili- ties desired." Such a statement was made out, after consultation with the General Field Agent in the Army of the Cumberland (Rev. E. P. Smith), in a letter drawn up by Mr. Demond. The final answer from the War Department was, that " application must be made for the facilities desired directly to the Department, in each particular instance." The repeated assurances above recited were, with a few exceptions, made good during the remainder of the war. The following Special Order from General Grant, while in com- mand of the Army of the Mississippi, fitly closes this Note. It is the more valuable, as illustrating the spirit and conduct of the man in his subsequent relations to the Christian Commission. In Sep- THE FIRST YEAB. 141 tember, 18(34, he extended the order, so :is to make it embrace all Departments of the Army of the United States. Headquarters Military Division of the Mississippi,') In the Field, Chattanooga, Tens-.. Dec. 12, 1863. J Special Orders, No. 32. Ex. All officers holding commands in the Military Division of the Mississippi, are hereby required to extend every facility, not inconsistent with the public service, to all Delegates of the United States Christian Commission, and aid them, by every legitimate means in their power, to the accomplishment of the benevolent and charitable purposes of the Commission. Permission will at all times he granted by the proper military authorities to such Delegates to pass to all parts within the lines, without hindrance or molestation. The Commissary Department will at all times sell to such Delegates, upon certificates similar to those given by officers, such stores as they may need for their own use. Military telegraph lines will transmit for such Delegates all messages relat- ing to the business of the Commission. The Quartermaster's Department will, upon application, furnish such Dele- gates and their stores free transportation upon all Government steamers and military railroads to and from such points within the Military Division as their duties may require them to visit. By order of Major-General U. S. Grant. Geo. K. Leet, Assistant Adjutant-General. CHAPTER III. THE SECOND YEAR. "When the second year of the Commission's work began, the number of auxiliary associations ami com- mittees throughout the North was forty-four ; -when it closed, the number was one hundred and eleven. This may fairly stand as an index of the Commission's growth, and its improvement in method and efficiency was per- haps equal to its enlargement. Its first anniversaries, largely attended as they were, and participated in by men of national reputation in all departments of the public service, gained for it the general ear. The sim- plicity and directness in its modes of operation; the fullness of its financial exhibits ; the endorsement of prominent clergymen and others who had visited the army in its service ; the appreciation of the soldiers themselves, with their officers, surgeons, and chaplains; 1 1 In the early part of the year a proposition by the Commission to provide volunteer chaplains for the army, one for each brigade, was misapprehended by some of the regular chaplains. This gave rise, for a little while, to unplea- sant discussion and alienation in a few cases. But the misapprehension soon passed away, and the result was a better understanding of tin- Commission by the chaplains and a more hearty co-operation. The proposition originated with the Xew York Committee, and was endorsed by the Central Executive Committee on the 3d of March. The design was benevolent, — neither to disparage the chaplaincy nor to interfere with it, but to assist it in every 142 THE SECOND YEAR. \ \-'< the increasing favor of government, 1 and the manifest blessing of God, — all these strengthened the Commis- sion's hold upon the affections of the people, and multi- plied its resources. 2 As the year opened, and the President's Proclamation of Emancipation gave definiteness and character to the contest, the feeling prevailed that the war would assume larger dimensions, involve a thorough reshaping of the national policy, and perhaps be protracted through years. "The policy of emancipation and of employing black soldiers gave to the future a new aspect, about which hope and fear and doubt contended in uncertain con- flict It was all the while deemed possible that the necessity for it [i. e. emancipation] might come, and that if it should, the .crisis of the contest would then he presented." 3 These changes in public sentiment and governmental action, and in the attendant enlargement way. The form and tone of the firsl circular, however, were unfortunate, ami the whole movement, as was soon discovered, was unwise. 1 In addition to what is stated elsewhere, the following extracts from a letter of Genera] Geo. G. Meade, commanding the Army of the Potomac, will he of interest. It was addressed to Mr. Stuart, from the headquarters of the army, under date of August ■">, isii3. " It will afford me very great plea- sure to render you every encouragement and facility in my power to prosecute the good and holy work you have entered upon You may rest satisfied that in this army your agents and assistants will receive even co- operation, and be treated with all the consideration due the important and ivork they are engaged upon. I shall be glad to hear from you when- ever anything occurs requiring my action, and shall always be ready, a< far as the exigencies of the service and my authority will permit, to comply with your wishes." '-' Striking illustrations of this are seen in the prompt and noble offerings made after the battle of Gettysburg ; as also for our prisoners in Richmond; the generous Contributions at Saratoga, to send ice to Charleston, and the large Collections on the Pay of National Thank-giving. 3 President Lincoln's Message, Dec. 9, 1863. 144 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. and improvement of the army, were reflected in the movements of the Commission, which drew its life from the popular feeling, and adapted its operations to the varying exigencies, forms of organization, and methods of conduct of the forces in the field. As early as August 12, 1862, Bishop Janes had written to Mr. Stuart, — ''The demand for the services of the Commission, in my judgment, is likely to continue a long time. It will be well for us to mature our plans and strengthen our agency as much as possible." There was urgent demand for more of system in the Commission's army work. Hitherto, indeed, there had been nothing worthy the name of army organization, — no "controlling head or permanent agency in the field. 7 ' Delegates had gone out in companies, each company, whether containing three or thirty, constituting one of its number a captain, and carrying their own stores. They went to such field or hospital as was most needy or most accessible, and worked in such way as their judg- ment or resources and opportunity determined. Their time of service was left to their own convenience. Thus each company had to experiment for itself, did not seem to represent a permanent and continuous agency, and was likely to leave very few and feeble traces of its work. That much good was done by this method, or want of method, must be gratefully acknowledged ; that much good was hindered, through inexperience, by misappli- cation and loss of stores, and by failure to gain fully the confidence of surgeons, chaplains, and soldiers, it would be wrong to deny. But this was slowly improved, as the necessity and conditions of efficient co-operation witli the government and the army were better under- THE SECOND YEAR. 1 l"> stood. The last of tlic "companies" thus sent out was to Murfreesboro', after the battle of Stone River, in the firsl days of January, 1863. The plan of army organization ultimately adopted, hut which it required months to perfect, was to appoint a General Field Agent, with one or more Assistants, in each army. This General Agent had supervision of the entire work in his field, establishing stations as needed, assigning Delegates to the various stations, keeping up the supply of stores and publications, representing the Commission in its intercourse with the military and other authorities in the army, and being directly respon- sible to the Central Executive Committee. Permanent Station Agents were appointed, one for each corps, to act under the instructions of the General Field Agent, and to direct the labors of the Delegates who might be assigned them. Delegates were required to enter the service for a period of at least six weeks, unless specially excused, and to be subject to the direction of the Field Agents. A permanent organization was thus secured, composed of a few men carefully chosen, after having been trie;! as volunteer workers. They were constantly familiar with all the necessities and opportunities of the work, kept guard over the stock and stores of the Com- mission, and could turn to immediate use the earnest hut unskilled zeal of the new Delegates. A system of reports, — not perfected and fully introduced, however, until a year later, — furnished the requisite information for the Agents ami for the Executive and Auxiliary Committees. This information also, so far as desirable, was communicated to the public through various chan- nels. Thus an interest in the work was sustained, and 19 14(! ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. a record of its method and achievements preserved. This plan of organization resulted from the suggestions of men in the field, who felt the need of it, and from the deliberations of the Commission. A few particulars upon the points thus sketched are here proper. John A. Cole, of Medway, Massachusetts, was the first General Field Agent appointed. IK' went to the Army of the Potomac as a Delegate, August 20, 1862, and remained nine months without compensation. He was the first, as his letters show, to appreciate the necessity of a thorough organization of the Commission's army work, to urge it upon the Executive Committee, and to indicate the main features which the organization should possess. He received his official appointment early in the spring of 1863, and was assigned to the Army of the Potomac, — his field subsequently includ- ing all the forces operating against Richmond. As speedily as possible, which was by no means as speedily as he desired, he put his designs into execution, with sncli modifications as experience, deliberation, and neces- sity suggested. The Executive Committee in accepting Mr. Cole's resignation at the close of the work, Sep- tember 1, lSli."), thus recalled his early efforts in shap- ing the army organization of the Commission: — "in accepting this resignation we express to Mr. Cole our grateful appreciation of the steadfast purpose, the Chris- tian fidelity, and the unselfish and unremitted toil with which he has prosecuted our field work for three years past, attaining, through God's smile, to a success wider, and more permanent and blessed, than our strongest faith dared anticipate. And we here record our conviction that to his sagacity in originating, his wisdom in plan- THE SECOND Y K LB. 1 17 oing, and his resolute continuance in executing, we are indebted for much of the wort that was peculiar and very happy in the armies of Virginia; and this being the earliest and the largest Held occupied by the Com- mission, to Mr. Cole is rightly due the satisfaction of knowing that he has largely given shape and character to our Held work in other armies." The salaries of the permanent agents in the field varied in amount from $40 to $70 per month, according to posi- tion, with subsistence and incidental expenses. In a few- cases, owing to some peculiarity of circumstances, a larger compensation was paid, hut the excegs was made up independently of the Commission's treasury. In the Minutes of the Executive Committee for May 22, 1863, it is recorded: — "Upon recommendation of John A. Cole, Field Agent in the Army of the Poto- mac, Rev. Edward P. Smith, tried as a Delegate, was -elected from the corps of Delegates in the Army of the Potomac, and sent as a Field Agent to the West, with instructions, stores, and publications, to open a sys- tematic work. of Christian labor, Scripture distribution, and supply of religions reading-matter and stores, in the Army of General Rosecrans (Department of the Cumberland). Having commenced the work remark- alilv well, Mr. Smith was further instructed to organize and commence a similar work in the Department of the Ohio, under General Burnside." Mr. Smith, who had been a pastor in Pepperell, Mass., entered the Army of the Potomacas a Delegate, January 26, 1863, and continued in the service of the Commis- sion until it dissolved, lie left for the West iii the last day- of March. April (>, he reports himself in Nash- 148 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. ville, " waiting on officials," where also he finds " the Commission in had repute." Two days later he writes from Murfreeshoro', after having had "an interview, under favorable circumstances, with General Rosecrans," and announces that the Commission is " established in the Army of the Cumberland." In the Department of the Ohio, General Burnside welcomed the presence of the Commission and favored it to the extent of his power. The peculiar position and service of this Army, as operating for the relief of East Tennessee, made it largely dependent upon land trans- portation, and compelled it to dispense with every- thing that could lie deemed a military superfluity. However, much was done through the committees in Cincinnati and Louisville, especially for the post hospi- tals and more permanent camps. In November, Mr. J. 11. Miller, who had been Assistant Field Agent in the East, was sent to General Burnside's army to superin- tend the work. He was an efficient laborer, and re- mained with the Commission until its close. In June Mr. Smith visited the Army of the Tennes- see, commanded by General Grant, then before Vicks- burg, to prepare the way for permanent organization there. Early in July, Mr. K. A. Burnell, who had been serving the Army Committee in St. Louis as Secre- tary, arrived in Memphis as Field Agent, and began a very successful work. He remained in the work through the war. The ample facilities and constant encourage- ment afforded by General Grant and his subordinates were of great value. In October the Departments of the Cumberland, the Tennessee, and the Ohio, were consolidated into one, called THE SECOND Vl'.Ai:. I 19 the Department of the Mississippi, with ( reneral ( Irani in command. While in this position he issued, in behalf of the Commission, the Special Order printed on page 111. Mr. Smith, in giving the history of that order, writes to Mr. Boardman under date of Chattanooga, Nov. 18, "I went to the headquarters of the Division of the Mississippi this morning, with fear and trembling I appealed to Genera] Grant, preparing my document carefully, and making it general so as to cover all his command. I asked for live things, — 1, An endorsement of the Com- mission by the Commanding General to his officers, authorizing them to give all facilities not inconsistent with the public service; "_', Passes for Delegates within the lines; 3, Transportation for Delegates and stores ; I, I'se of military telegraph; 5, Privilege of purchasing of commissary and quartermaster's department, fur the use of the Delegates. The General received me easily ; rend my papei's with attention ; said an order should be issued, covering the points made, as soon as he had leisure to prepare it : laid my paper on the Adjutant's desk, saying, 'There is a paper to which I wish to give attention.' He then directed the Adjutant to make out ;i pass and free transportation for me to any part of his entire command, till further order, and put his autograph to it. I came hack all the way to our quarters with my heart full of the first line of the ' Doxology iii Long Metre.'" Mr. Smith writes further from Nashville, Dee. 22, "General Grant's facilities have given us a new footing entirely." As already indicated, visits had been frequently made among the Western troops, beginning with their very earliest engagements, by Delegates from die Army Com- 150 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. mittees and Young Men's Christian Associations of Cin- cinnati, Chicago, St. Louis, Peoria, etc. These had taken reading -matter and stores, often acting as distri- butors for the Sanitary Commission, and ministering personally among the men by holding religious services. But the movements now briefly described inaugurated more permanent and systematic operations. It should be noticed here that many of the Commis- sion's most successful army agents, who continued in its service through the war, began their labors within the first half of this year or earlier. To the names men- tioned above may be added those of Rev. E. F. "Wil- liams, Rev. F. G. Ensign, T. R. Ewing, Wm. A. Law- rence, Rev. J. F. Loyd, and H. C. Houghton. Possibly there were others. It was the fortune of the Commis- sion, which should be gratefully recognized, to be served alike in the field and on the home committees by men of rare devotion and ability. Both the unsalaried and the salaried workers are entitled to this praise. There were exceptions, but they were in a very small minority and of short continuance, especially among the per- manent agents and committee-men. The Auxiliary Commission in New York City had ebarge of the work in the navy, among the blockading squadrons and coast expeditions, in the coast ports and the Department of the Gulf, — thus extending along a line of two thousand miles, from New York to New Orleans, and including about one-fourth of the national forces. Their principal stations, beside the New York office, were Portsmouth, Va., Newbern, N. C, Beaufort, S. C, and New Orleans. These served as centres for the prosecution of the work in every direction. Owing THE SECOND YEAR. 1">1 to the distance of their stations, and the difficulty and slowness of transportation, the New York Committee employed their Delegates for a period of not less than six months, Many of them served for from one to two years. They were also paid a small salary and fur- nished their own subsistence. Less was done by the ( fommission in this department in the way of supplying sanitary stores, and more exclusive attention paid to the distribution of reading- matter and personal religious ministrations. Among the permanent agents, while all did well, special mention should lie made, because of their long-continued services, of Rev, E. N. Crane in Eastern Virginia, and Hon. J. V. C. Smith, m. d., in New < h'leans. Such is a rapid sketch of the field presented to the Commission, in the larger cities and towns, and their immediate neighborhoods, — particularly along the great central war-line, which stretched from Washington City to the Mississippi River, — were hospitals, camps, forts, etc. Many of these were primary or secondary liases of supply for the various armies. These places were included in the Commission's plan of operations, which conformed itself to the military organization, and were superintended by local committees or agents, generally acting in co-operation with some General Field Agent. With this survey of the army as distributed for work, let us look at the arrangements made for its supply, for it was felt that organization was quite as essential at home as in the iield. Although this organization was not very thoroughly carried out during the year, yet the necessity was developed, and a beginning was made. Experience showed that if the Army Committees within 152 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. a convenient district were charged with the duty of sup- plying a particular army with Delegates and stores, the supply could be made more constant and regular, and the interest for effort at home would be greater. As the result of correspondence and conference with the army agents and other leading workers, a meeting of the Com- mission at large was held in Philadelphia, October 15 and 16; There were present Geo. H. Stuart, chairman ; Rev. Bishop Janes, New York ; Rev. R. H. Neale and Chas. Demond, of Boston; day Cooke and John P. Crozer, Philadelphia; Rev. M. L. R. P. Thompson, Cincinnati; John V. Farwell, Chicago; Rev. Jas. Eells, Brooklyn ; Jos. Patterson, Treasurer; Rev. W. E. Boardman, Secre- tary. By invitation there were also present the follow- ing representatives of the several Army Committees named, — J. W. Mclntyre, St. Louis; G. S. Griffith and Rev. Geo. P. Hays, Baltimore; D. L. Moody, Chicago; N. Bishop and F. G. Foster, New York; E. C. Walker, Detroit; Rev. John F. Ernst, Buffalo ; P. B. Simons, Philadelphia ; W. Ballantyne, Washington. In addi- tion to these the meeting was attended by Rev. Benj. Parsons, Field Agent, just I'roiu tbe Army of the Cum- berland; Rev. J. F. Sutton, recently returned from the Gulf Department ; and Rev. C. P. Lyt'ord, Agent at Camp Convalescent. The work since the previous meeting in January was passed in review. It included the fields of Gettysburg, Chickamauga, and many others; the wonderful scenes of Camp Convalescent, Annapolis, Nashville, Memphis, etc. ; the relief of the famished prisoners at Richmond, and the sweltering sufferers before Charleston ; beside the regular, growing efforts for imparting bodily relief THE SECOND YEAR. 153 and carrying' the Gospel of Christ throughout the armies. All this will come before us more fully here- after. During the nine months 822 Delegates had been sent out, nearly $200,000 in easli received, and disbursements made, including donated stores, etc., of over $300,000. While it was devoutly recognized that there was very much in the relief and comfort bestowed, the lives saved, the hope and courage awakened, the sin prevented, and the souls converted, to move the grati- tude and thankfulness of all, it was manifest that much more systematic and earnest effort would he requisite if the increasing exigencies and opportunities were to be even approximately met. A general plan of home organization and co-operation was therefore adopted, after careful deliberation, interchange of views, and dis- cussion. The main points were: — 1. The Central Executive Committee to exercise gene- ral oversight of the whole work, with direct control and support of the General Field Agents, Assistants, and Local Agents. By co-operation from the Auxiliaries of New England, Western New .Jersey, Eastern Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Washington City, etc., the Cen- tral Committee wen' also to have immediate charge of the work in the Eastern Armies. '2. The New York Committee, as already noticed, to supply the navy, 1 the coast defenses, and the Gulf De- 1 Tlir subjoined letfei shews the estimate |>ui upon the Commission's work by the naval authorities. Similar instructions were sent to the other navy yards, anil were othcially communicated to the Central Office of the Com- mission. BuitKAi- op Equipment am> Recruiting, 1 Washington, February 16, 1863. ( Ai'Miu \i.: — This Bureau has been charged with the duty of attending to the requisitions 20 154 ANNALS OP THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. partment, and to draw their resources from the States of New York, Connecticut, and Eastern New Jersey. 3. The Auxiliaries in Pittsburg, Cincinnati, Indian- apolis, and Louisville, to give special attention to the Departments of the Ohio and Cumberland. 4. Chicago, Peoria, St. Louis, Detroit, and Milwaukee, to assume similar charge of the troops in Missouri and the Department of the Tennessee, with all forces further West and South, to the line of the Gulf Department. 5. Each Auxiliary was to organize local societies in its own district, collect funds, and secure Delegates and commission them. All commissions, however, were to issue from the Central Office, duly numbered and signed by the Chairman, — being sent in blank to the Commit- tees, by which a full statement of their use was to be made. Surplus funds, after paying expenses of Dele- gates, purchasing necessary supplies, transportation and other local charges, were to be sent to the general trea- sury. All supplies needed from the East were to be purchased through the Central Executive Committee. A system of reports was also arranged, between the of the Christian Commission for the Army and Navy, so far as the navy is concerned. It is the wish of the Department to have forwarded moral and religious works, with hospital delicacies, etc., to the different squadrons in ves- sels hound to these squadrons. You will please therefore have the beneficent object of the Christian Commission in view, and afford it every possible reason- able accommodation consistent with the public interest, and forward such articles as it wishes for the temporal and spiritual welfare of those engaged in the naval service. Please refer to the Bureau applications for passage, which must be made and indorsed by some one in connection with the Association. The officers of the Society are gentlemen of the highest standing in New York. Respectfully, etc., A. H. Foote, Chief of Bureau. Rear Admiral Hiram Paulding, Commanding Navy Yard, New York-. THE SECOND YEAR. 155 home-committees and their army districts, and between all these and the Central Office. This plan, with modifications and subsequent enlarge- ment, was in a general way adhered to during the re- mainder of the war. Indeed, no complete and thorough organization throughout the country was ever effected, although it was approximated by some local committees, as for example by the one at Pittsburg. The work was too vast, the territory too large, and especially was the reliance, properly and necessarily, too much upon the voluntary and spontaneous action of the people, to admit of rigid and thorough-going organization. But the resources and the power lost from want of system were largely made up by the heartiness and constancy with which patriotic and Christian devotion stood under its burdens until the last. The details of the year's work in the army are given in subsequent chapters. They show a large advance upon the preceding year. The total receipts and expen- ditures had increased four fold, — the cash alone in a much larger ratio. The number of Delegates sent into the Held was only a little less than four times the force of 1862. A better understanding of the character and needs of the soldiers was manifest, in the superior class of literature furnished. The weekly and monthly reli- gious newspapers, desirable pamphlets and magazines, and well-selected libraries of valuable standard books were extensively circulated. These labors and benefac- tions were shared by the camps, hospitals, forts, military prisons, and naval forces. The great battle-fields of the year. — including Stone River, Chancellorsvillc, Gettys- burg, Vicksburg, Chickamauga, Chattanooga, etc., — 156 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. were of course most prominent among the scenes of the Commission's activity, and everything was done that their resources rendered possible in relieving suffer- ing, and preaching the Gospel to sick, wounded, and well, alike among friends and captured foes. One event, however, of unusual interest at the time, may be nar- rated here. We refer to the relief of our prisoners of war in Richmond. The story is briefly and clearly told in the subjoined paragraphs from the Annual Report for 1863. These might be abundantly illustrated from the correspondence of the period, were it necessary or desirable. Instantly upon the reception of intelligence from Chat- tanooga that Rev. John Hussey 1 had been taken, on the 20th of September, and probably carried captive from the Chickamauga to Richmond, inquiry by letter was made of the Richmond authorities whether he had arrived there, and the answer returned that there was " no such man in any of the prisons in and around Richmond." The same mail, however, brought a letter, dated " Castle Thunder," from Mr. Hussey himself, ask- ing the Commission to send him food and clothing to relieve him from hunger and cold, and to secure, if possi- ble, his early release. A letter was written to Mr. Jay Cooke, then at Sandusky, Ohio, to j>rocure a testimonial from such of the thousands who had been benefited at Gettysburg by Delegates of the Commission, as might be found on Johnson's Island, to send forward to Rich- mond for the purpose of influencing the release of Mr. 1 Mr. Hussey was a Delegate, from Hamilton County, Ohio, sent out by the Cincinnati Branch. He was taken prisoner while ministering to the wounded, just after the battle of the Chickamauga. THE SECOND YEAR. 157 Hussey. Mr. Cooke promptly returned the follow- ing:— Depot fob Prisoners, i Johnson's Island, near Simh sky, Ohio, October 31, 1863. J The undersigned, prisoners of war at Johnson's Island, do hereby certify that, from their personal knowledge and experience, the Dele- gates of the United States Christian Commission, in their Christian efforts to relieve the sick and wounded of the various battle-fields, make no difference or discrimination between the contending parties, relieving alike the sufferings and wants of the Confederate and Federal men and officers; and we therefore sincerely trust, that the authorities at Richmond and elsewhere will treat any of said Dele- gates that may fall into their hands with the kindness justly due to them, and grant them a speedy return to their Christian work. (Signed by forty-eight Confederate soldiers, mostly officers.) Without waiting for the answer from Mr. Cooke, a letter was written to Mr. Hussey, stating that an appeal for his release would be made to the authorities in Rich- mond immediately, upon the ground that he was a non- combatant, a Delegate of the Christian Commission, taken on the battle-field, where he was under authority ministering to the wounded ; that the Delegates had always ministered alike to friend and foe; that the thou- sands of rebel wounded at Gettysburg had been kindly cared lor by them; that the Commission was doing all that could lawfully be done for those then in Fort Dela- ware, and that testimonials to this effect would be sent forward. This letter, as it passed under the scrutiny of the Commissioner at Richmond, decided the release of Mr. Hussey without delay. The appeal was formally made, and the testimonials transmitted; but already, before they arrived, the released Delegate was happily on his return. Simultaneously with the letter of Mr. 158 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Hussey, came an appeal to the Commission through another channel, opening the way for the transmission of food, clothing, and medicine to the suffering captives in Libby Prison, Castle Thunder, the Tobacco Ware- houses, and on Belle Island. Immediately a box had been packed and shipped for Mr. Hussey, which was received, not by him, because he was released the day before its arrival, but by Captain Conover, of Ohio, a fellow-captive and friend ; and with the box for Mr. Hussey, a limited hut choice shipment was made of a few boxes to Lieutenant W. F. Randolph, in Libby Prison, which was duly received and gladly distributed, as intended, amongst his fellow-prisoners. This ship- ment was immediately acknowledged by General Mere- dith at Fortress Monroe, and its safe arrival at Rich- mond announced by the following letter from Major John E. Mulford, Assistant Commissioner of Ex- change: — Office Commissioner of Exchange, 1 Fortress Monroe, Ya.. Novembers, 1S63. J Geo. H. Stuart, Chairman Christian Commission, Philadelphia: Sir: I have the honor to inform you that twenty-one packages, addressed "Lieutenant W. F. Randolph, Fifth United States Artil- lery, Libby Prison, Richmond, Virginia," and one addressed "Rev. John Hussey, Castle Thunder, Richmond, Virginia," containing clothing and other comforts, forwarded by the Christian Commission, tor the benefit of our suffering prisoners in the hands of the enemy, have been received and delivered by me to the authorities at Rich- mond, and I trust and believe they have, ere this, found their way to and made glad the hearts of many of those for whom they were intended. Your noble Association cannot find a wider or worthier field than this for its work of benevolence ami charity, nor do I believe any TIIK SECOND YE.VK. 1 •">'. I other when 1 bo much good may be done, or so great an amount of real suffering can be alleviated, as here, even at the cost of redoubled efforts and means. Should vim desire to make any further shipments, address to the party whom you wish to receive and distribute the articles, in care of •• Brigadier-General S. A. Meredith, Commissioner fur Exchange of Prisoners, Fortress Monroe, Virginia," ami forward by Adams Express. On arrival at Fortress Monroe, such packages will be for- warded to Richmond via flag- of truce. With heartfelt thanks on behalf of the recipients of your bounty, I am, sir, very respectfully, Your obedient servant, John E. Mulfo&d, Major inn! Assistant Agent fur Exchange. Thus encouraged, the Commission opened its doors to receive all that should be offered suitable for the pur- pose, and especially for money to purchase articles most needed and most valuable to afford the required relief and comfort to the thousands of wretched captives. The touching and terrible statements made of the condition of the inmates of these prisons moved all hearts irre- sistibly, and opened the purse of the people to supply, without limit, the means of relief. The only question was, whether that which should be sent could be pushed through and actually placed in the hands of the prisoners themselves. The arrival of three hundred and fifty men at Annapolis, on the 20th of November, in the most deplorable condition, six having died on the way, and very many marked for the grave within a few hours or days at the farthest, served to increase sympathy and cause unbounded indignation. The facts in the case were made public, and contributions flowed in apace. Stores were purchased, packed, and sent forward daily. 160 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. From day to day despatches and letters from General Meredith and Major Mulford were received, and occa- sionally an acknowledgment directly from the prisons, showing that the goods shipped were faithfully delivered and distributed to the prisoners. Efforts, though always unsuccessful, were made at different times and in various ways, to obtain consent of the Richmond authorities to the residence of one or more agents of the Christian Commission in Richmond, in the prisons if not else- where in the city, to receive and distribute the supplies sent. The narrow channel open was evidently clogged soon after the tide of relief from the North commenced setting in to the rebel capital, and every day seemed to clog it still further. It is charitable, and perhaps true, to say that the means of transportation from City Point, where our lla cash paid drafts and re- mitted to agencies, for car- rying on the work in the field 10,454 37 9,968 05 4,440 59 4,958 33 By cash paid Delegates' ex- By cash paid for freight, By cash paid salaries at Cen- tral Office, and permanent By cash paid incidental ex- prNM's, poet ay r, udvcrtis- By cash paid expenseE of By counterfeit and broken 2,370 82 43,547 41 1864. $222,214 67 $222,214 67 $43,547 41 THE SECOND YEAR. 163 TABLE II. -CASH RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURES OF CENTRAL OF] [I I AND OF BRANCHES HAVING A Local FIELD TO SUPPORT. OFFICES. Philadelphia.. Baltimore Boston Buffalo Ladies 1 0. C Chicago Cinciunati Detroit Elarrisburg Indianapolis I isi ilia New Ynik Peoi ii Philadelphia, fY. M. C \ Pittsjbui g Portland St. Louis Total for 1863 Total fur 18612 Total for 1862 and '63. Total rcoetpl [868, M ancc on hand, 1889. $121,417 (in 14,600 76 78,220 ::4 3,361 21 4,168 1" 8,182 2'l 21,010 22 3,478 75 2,37li 51 703 S4 486 95 68,542 4'.l 1,6 .1 15 9,302 01 22,732 .... 3,201 (IS . . , 1 ' i ^ 81 {368 - 19 29 40,160 29 {398 399 58 Rxpendei b, ( LI cs, 1863. 6178.667 26 L3 118 ,,:: 9,121 ., . 2S4 63 1,593 51 5,806 14 6,781 . 500 , 2 217 36 vj ::.; 2 16 90 28,873 40 881 35 1,945 49 13,684 13 214 31 3,672 49 -j".. 211 28 40,160 29 $305,371 57 Remitted to and purcbo .ii a count "i Co i $li4,r.7il 85 l 6i 1. 2."":: 37 1,286 ''1 2,300 00 2,129 15 14.1102 41 7.171'. N4 1,481 05 •J 4: 7 s 506 39 $100,797 67 Balan. a hand !• ;l hi.; ■I';. 17 ii 1,382 13 i S22 2! 1,426 68 •171 S3 372 7s 678 2 ; 621 J [6166 65 772 80 17'' 68 7 i67 • • 643 99 l.i i2.i 93 893,028 "1 TABLE III.— PACKAGES SHIPPED, STORES DONATED, AND VALUE OF SAME, WITH NUMBER OF DELEGATES SENT. OFFICES. Boxe hipped tributed :.i Inline. Boxes donated. Value ni Boxes. Del gate senl 6,691 1,575 673 3 -"..' 1.1117. 1,135 27 s 112 325 239 1.H.77 6163.610 24 2 ..' So.12.7 in 5,155 "4 l.ui 14."i l.i II 26.1 :'." 00 2.I3UO 00 7.14 215 175 142 400 239 1,057 69 4 328 154 836 26 11 548 . 48 3 4 22.7 1 '. 1 c. 1 .-. 681 130 11 7,4s 3,100 00 45,708 79 300 00 60 mi 12.040 00 6 7:; 30 12,648 3,691 9,301 2,932 S29 '17 142,150 00 1 189 374 Total for 1862 and '63 l , 189 12,283 $527,979 n7 1 1 Notb, — The boxes' " donated " are those which were received from contributors. The difference between the boxes "shipped" and the boxes "donated** will show the amount of Stores and Pub- lications purchased by the Commission. KM ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. TABLE IV. -PUBLICATIONS DISTRIBUTED BY CENTRAL AND BRANCH OFFICES. OFFICES. Cn|iK'S ..1 Sorip- 11 vim] A' Psalm Books. Knapsack Books. Libra')- Books. Sfogasla'a inn! ['..in plilcts. Religious v ■ papers. Pages hi Tracts, Silent Com- Carter. 392,146 1,900 1,480 202.858 600 25,000 H.-,;i.o.-.ii soo 20,000 10.0114 360 500 1,500 1,600 1,000 7,633 1,824 8,800 4,692 40,910 400 2,198,138 5,000 87,000 18,650 70,000 200,000 4.-.0 6,609,752 500,000 287,321 3,285 Buffalo 2,700 4,700 6,600 140 1,000 11,1109 llll.llllll .-10,111111 350 500 32,4 18 11 :.nn l 4.670 2,617 17,500 65,000 1,641 SOO 148,276 300,000 760,000 7.O20 130,000 2,160,000 1. ii l.:i73 10,000 29,870 12,000 ■ Philudelphia(Y.M.C.A.) 1,488 61,420 2,741 ns.i-.77 56,276 79,615 378,820 16,040 853,769 Mil l.usi; 47.240 6J293 Total for 1S63 465,716 102,560 37] 859 180,697 1,254,591 115,757 39,713 .; 160 120,492 34,653 2,931 169 384,781 11,976,722 10,953,706 3,285 830 Distributed in 1862. Total for 1862 and '63 668^75 602,566 1,370,34S 13,163 155,145 .;i'., J.... 22,930,428 4,115 TABLE V.— SUMMARY OF VALUE OF WORK FOR 1S62 AND 1S63. Cash) Offi< 1863. eeiptsatCentraland Branch i 289 1:0 385.829 07 72.420 00 45,071 60 1 677 To 44,210 00 9,390 00 1862. ("asli receipts at Centra] and Branch S40.160 29 142,161 21,360 00 Value .. Scriptures from amei [can Scriptures donated toy the American Bible S itj a & 1 ipturea from Bi Etisn and Foreign Bible 80- lll.OMl III. 3,650 00 >■ :- -_•:;!. -',,ii 2'J Totai for 1863 Total for 1863 916 837 65 1916,887 65 SI ,148.093 94 CHAPTER IV. THE THIRD YEAR. The year 1864 was the great year in the history of the Christian Commission. About one-half of its entire work, as measured by money and supplies received and by the Dumber of Delegates commissioned, was accom- plished during this year. Its home organization was enlarged and strengthened, and its methods in the field considerably modified and improved. When the spring campaigns opened, the treasury of the Commission was well-nigh empty. For the work of the winter had been heavy and expensive, and the small balance on hand at the beginning of the year had been rapidly used. The public mind was largely occu- pied by the series of great Sanitary Fairs which were being held throughout the country, and it was feared by some that the Christian Commission would be forgotten by its friends. The impression prevailed among many that the Commission's treasury was to share in the liberal receipts of the great Fairs, and they therefore thought that by aiding the one they were contributing to the other. These misapprehensii >ns and necessities led to an earnest and successful endeavor on the part of influ- ential men, in various parts of the country, to put the facts before the Christian public. Acknowledging the Hi J 160 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. good services and just claims of other associations, it was shown that nothing could he expected to reach the Christian Commission's treasury except what was speci- fically designated for it, and that the Commission was doing a peculiar and needed work, welcomed by the army and honored of God, which the church could not wisely and safely permit either to cease or to slacken. The men who had been in the field as Delegates, and who were therefore familiar with the work in all its aspects and with the reasons for its continuance, were asked to canvass their several communities in its behalf. By these and other methods the threatened disaster was averted, and the Commission was never after seriously embarrassed in its resources. Moreover, the danger which had seemed so near was not without its compensa- tions. Some of those who were most forward in setting- on foot the measures for the relief of the treasury had not been previously identified with the Commission, although friendly to it as a Christian association labor- ing for the welfare of the army. But the peculiar com- bination of circumstances put the question before them in a new light. The comprehensive ami distinctively religious scope of the Commission's work was seen to establisb paramount claims upon the sympathies and benevolence of Christians, — claims which had not been sufficiently considered. So when the issue was fairly presented, as it was at this time, these men took their places with the Commission, — a valuable gain of per- manent strength and influence. Early in the year there was a movement toward increasing the number of executive officers and members of the Commission. The business at the Central Office thi: THIRD yi'.ai;. 1<>/ had become so varied and extensive as to render it necessary that the Chairman and Secretary should have official assistance. It was felt also that a. judicious enlargement of the Commission and the Executive Com- mittee would make them more fairly representative of the nation and of its leading religious characteristics. Suggestions in this direction were received from various quarters, hut tin' matter took immediate shape from a meeting held at the rooms of the Commission on the 11th of April. Rev. Dr. E. X. Kirk and Mr. E. S. Tobey, of Boston, had just returned from a special visit to the armies before Richmond, and Prof. E. P. Bar- rows, of Andover, had been serving as a Delegate at ('amp Convalescent. Tlie ministers of Philadelphia, and others, were invited to meet these gentlemen and hear their views of the Commission's labors. A large number responded to the invitation, and the interview was held at the time and place above stated. After a protracted conference, the following preamble and reso- lutions were adopted: — Having hoard from Rev. Dr. Kirk and E. S. Tobey, of Boston, and Prof. Barrows, of Andover Theological Seminary, recently returned from the Army of the Potomac, some statements in reference to the claims of our soldiers on the sympathies of the Christian Church, the efforts that are made through the Christian Commission to admin- ister to their temporal and spiritual wants, the facilities which are afforded the Agents of the Commission for the prosecution of its benevolent work, and the wonderful openings in Providence for the spiritual instruction and improvement of the men in the army, and also the universal favor with which the Christian Commission is regarded throughout the whole army, it is therefore Resolved, l. That we feel deeply impressed with the conviction that a more interesting and important field for missionary operations 16S ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. is perhaps not to be found in the world, and that there is a loud and imperative call upon all the Christian churches throughout the land, to direct their immediate and serious attention to those remarkable openings which God in his providence has furnished to all who desire tu do pind tu the souls of their countrymen. Htxn/nd, 2. That this meeting earnestly recommend to the Execu- tive Committee, to adopt immediate measures for so modifying the present organization of the Christian Commission as to meet the increasing demands on its labors. As the result of these recommendations, and of still further conference and correspondence, measures were taken for a general enlargement. These were mainly carried out during the year, although formal action upon a few points was tint reached until the following spring. Thi' number of members of the Commission was in- creased from twelve to fifty ; the Executive Committee from five to seventeen; and two new secretaryships were created, one for home organization and one for field organization. Rev. Lemuel Moss, of Worcester, .Mass., was chosen to the first of these secretaryships, and Key. Prof. Bernice D. Ames, of East Greenwich, R. I., to the second. 1 The membership of the Commission, and its Executive Committee and Officers, may he besl shown by the following tabular lists. To make the view com- plete, a lew names and dates are given which belong to 1865. 1 A Business i°gent was also appointed, tu lie on duty at the Central Office, to superintend the purchases and other business interests of the Commission. Rev. A. (l. Mi'Aulev, Pastor of the Fifth Reformed Presbyterian Church, Phila.. was elected for this position, in October. lie hail done piod and gra- tuitous service for the Commission, in the field and at home, and was well fitted fur hi- new duties by his previous experience as a business man. These duties had been formerly discharged, without special official designation, by Mr. Joseph II. Ogden. Tin: THIRD YEAR. 169 Members of the 0". S. Christian Commission, in Order of Appointment, with Dates op their Election, Resignation, etc. II toffon*.— B.,Baptlst;C-. Oongrogntlonalist; L.,Lutheran;G.R. l I ■ d M . Mo- pal; M. P., Methodist Protestant; N. S. P., NewScI I Pri bytoi S. P., Old Sol LPn byterlan; R P., Reformed Presbyterian j (J. P., United Presbyterian , P. E., Prol tanl Epl copal ; R. D., Reformed Dub , Charles Del 1 Rev. Ro lin II Ni il D i' Rev. Bishop r s Junes, d. d Beivj. I-'. Milll'll" Rev. 8. H, l'\ ii. i>. i' John I'. I 1 1 .'1 Goorgo ii i\ Stuart II. Thane Miltci Rbv. M. I.. R. 1'. 'I'M pson, n. il. John V b'nrwoll • lull. I I' Hill. M.I. Mn. hell II Miller Rev. Ii' in i'. Cutler, D. i> | in ton 11 iii. .' .. i'm.i.' Rev. .1. Rolls, n. D I:, i w B. Bourdm Stcphi n Colwcll W I mi 1". DodgC Iil'V, II- III III |l\ IT, II I. Goldsborough S. Griffith Waltci S. Griffith ,i — pi, Patterson i ; . \ i . | ii Nathan Bishop, i.l.d Will. A. Buckingham S Ii i l: i ..Mn II \ l! Chamberlain Schuvl i i nlfox i'i istiu 'hi banks William Prow Rev. il.:.-. Il.nl ■.■. n.ii Morris K Jesup lit. Rev. Bisli I I n. !>,.., Itt. Rev. U. P. Mi lln.ii. ... I.. I. ■ i i H . N i e John Owen Geo r.i in, .i, .1 Ii. Roberta K.lwiinl s. Toboj Til. mm- \\ attSOll Rev, Fi ici H n i land, n. n.* Rev. J. Mnlliauser Fi in. i- il Pierpoiut Hiram Price R I. -i lb oi keuridge, D. i. Ret . S. ..'in- litis .loll n Evan* Hornti tea Jones Ii"\ . B, i . Inn. in K"i .lam. - Pike Re, . Km, nt. Roi -l"n » mi ' » ill i Walter S. Carter Prof M i, Sto. .' i I'n. i. Rev. Sylvesl i n Storm ■ i 'lin | .I ' 1 1 5 mini II, Hi. I, II mill. his. E.. E.. E... C i: M M r II. i; I' ... r. \. s. p. M. E.... i: . S. I'. E. m. i:.., i 1 E, U. II i S. I' II s. p \ 3 p I', i: ... G. Il v s. P II, s. I'. M. E It I p. E ii. s. i>, ii. ii C i r o. s. p., i: n I'. E P. E M I (' .I a p. i' B B I M, P ... M. K ii, S. I'- ll M. e... i; vi M. B... B. M. B... M !•:.. I I' ... Boston Boston \i'\v Y.irk \"iv ifork N.'iv Vork Philadelphia Philadelphia < 'iii.'i.iliali I in, lllllllti Chicago Hull 'I" Washington Brooklyn St.] ".:i- Philadelphia Brooklyn I adelphia Philadelphia N.i. York New rork Hi. Hi re Hi oklyn PI Iclphih Philadelphia Ni .i V a Ii Norwich, Conn Brooklyn ' in. iiniati ■in Ii ::■ :. .I I ml St. John I'.n i . \ i Pittsburg I'i in, nil, V .1 Nen Vint Vi ilii i, ,[., Ii"l Cincinnati i 'ai son < 'ii i . Nov Detroit Bath, Me Sun Francisco II i n Philadelphia i'i ". i'l"i" ' .. Milwaukee Alexandria, Va Davenport, Iowa tiOxfngUm, Ky Portland, Oregon Denver City, Col Philadelphia i ihoska, Minn s.mi "i m. ,n Hi 'ge, Nil Atchison, Km; Morgantow n. w . Va.... Milwaukee ."in sbur \ i, bison, Kansas. Dateol i \"i Nov. \", \,n. 1 15 l ., I.', Nov. I. " \.',. I V.I 1" \", 15 v., I.. Nov. i ... Nov. 15, \.,i I ii,.. in. n, , . i" Sept. Si ,H. .lull" 17. .hill" 17. June 17. .Inn..' 17. .1 17, .l.iii" 17, -lull" 17, •Inn. '17. .lulv 22, .Inly 22, .i.ih 22, .lull- '."J. .inii 22 July 22, -i ill V 'JL. July 22, July --'. July 22, July '-"-'. July '-"-'. .lull 22, July '-"-'. July 22, July 22, July J.'. lull 2ft, Inly 29, .lull 29, Aug. 12, Aug. 12, lug. 1J. \ i.-. 12, Aim. 12, Aug. 1-', In i Vug. 12, Sept. in. Sept. I". Sept. -in. St. Albans, VI Ian 6 IS61 1861, . 1S61, 1861. 1861. [861, 1861. 1861 1861. 1861. 1861. 1861. 1861. 1861. 1862. 1862. 1864. 1864. 1864. 1S64. hi, l 1864. I i I 1861. 1864. 1864. 1864. 1864. 1861 1864. 1864. 186J. 1864, 1861. 1864. 1864. 1864. 1864. 1864. 1864. 1864. 1864. 1864. 1S64. 1864 1864 1864. 1864. 1861 1S64. 1864. 1864. 1864. 1864. 1864. 1864. 1865, July in. 1862. ii. . in. 1861. I 10, 1861. lug. 20, 1862 July 1, 1865. Nov.. 20,1864. lug. 20, 1864. Sept. .".ii 1865 Sept. 16, 1864 Sepl ."'I. 186! * Deceased, il." date In t I » , - last column being the date "1 hi- death. 22 170 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Members 01 the Execi hye Committee of tuf. l\ s. Chiusti \n Commission, in Order of Appointment, with Dates of their Election, Resignation, etc. Rev. Bcnj C, Cutler, d d Charles Deniond Rev. Bishop E. S.Jaues, i>. n linn. F Munierre Rt'OI I II n ~ln.it I .1.1 \ Cooke .i.>iin P.& ' I;, v w in K. Bourdman, [o Stephen Colwell Win. !•:. Dodge i;r\ ll.'in.ni Dyer, n.i> Goldsho i' S. 'it iilith Walter S. Griffith Joseph Patterson Re> Bishi p M. Simpson, D. n Thomas \\ nttsou II i .mi" Giites Jones \ . I! I Ii.iiiiI- I Inn Juhn V. Karw.ll Clinton II. I ok William Frew P. E ... C m. h: M i: ... R. P P. E. ... II n s p 0. S r N.S.P r i: C R N. S, P. .1 S P., M. E I! II 0. s. p.. M. E M. K I p B 1.0 ii Boston N'ov, Iforl New ifork I'llil.1,1. l|.lii:i Philadelphia Philndi i < Philadelphia Pllilndclphin Sew Vork \i» fork Ball iinore Brooklyn Philadelphi i Philadelphia ..... Philadi Iphin Pllilndclphin Cincinnati Chirngo St. Louis Pittsburg Date ol Election. Dec. :. Dec. Dei Dec. Sept. Sept. June June ■ I .Inn.. June June June June .lull Aug. In il April April April 1861. 1S61. 1861. 1861. 1861. 1862. 1S62. IS6J 1864. 1864 1864. 1864 1864. 1864. 1864. 1S64. 1-' i. 1866. 1865 Aug. .lull -'". 1862. 20, 1862. July 1.1SG5. lug. 20, L864. K\iiiii\i Officers of the TJ. S. Christian Commission, in Order of Appoint- ment, w n ii Dates of their Election, Resignation, etc. George 11. o smart I'.. hi F. Manierre Ri i \ M. Morrison Rl v V in K. llnanliiiaiil Benj. K Manierre Joseph I'. it' 1 rson Rev. Lemuel Moss ... Rei Bernice D. Ann- Rot. Edward P. Smitli ■! p. n.iiiii nut s. I! P... M I P. i:. n S I M. h\. S. I 11 M. K. C mil Secretary Secretary S i.tt ) Treasurer Treasurer Sei retai yol n. Or- gaui: it ioi " Secretary .'I Field Or- > g mi . it '' Seci i i ii * "i Field Or- : mi .itnm- Date ol i Nov. 15, 1861. Nov. 15, L861 Feb 17, 1862. 17 . ■ - . . 1862 ' Ii. Sept Nov. 1 i. 1861 Sept 1862. July 22, 1864. July 29, 1864. March 18,1865. isivi .luh I, 1865. Jul) 10,1862. Oct. 1. 1865. Man it 1, L865 ,i in 1. 1866, The Executive Committee, us enlarged and newly organized, appointed from its own members four Sub- committees* to take direct charge of tbe various business 1 Although Mr. Boardman's resignation did not take effect until July, lie withdrew from duty at tin- office during the preceding March, to engage in the work of organizing Ladies' Christian Commissions. I'.\ action of the Executive Conimittee, April 1 I. 1865, the names of these offices were modified, ami they were called respectively " Eome Secretary" ami - I'ii'kl Secretary.." Tin: THIRD yk.vi:. 171 matters, viz. : — 1. Home Organization and Finance; 2. Field Organization and Work; 3. Publications; I. Stores and Stock. The Chairman and Secretary were ez officio members of all the Committees, and the other members were taken mainly from those members of the Executive Committee who lived in Philadelphia. The regular meetings of the Executive Committee were held weekly; special meetings were convened as circumstances mighl require. At the meeting of the Executive Committee held July '1'2, 1864, when several of the changes above spoken of were passed upon, a system of regulations was adopted, which will show the judgment of the Commission, as determined by their previous experience, concerning the details of their great work. The following regulations nl'cr to the agents and agencies in the field: — 1. Agents are to be employed and Agencies established, in the field, always and only by vote of the Executive Committee. '_'. Salaries are to be determined only and always by the Execu- tive ( iommittee. :!. All Orders from each field must be given by some ONE rr.RSOX whose business it is to attend to it. 1. All Orders from the field must be sent to one office, which shall be designated by the Executive Committee. ■">. Purchases and Contracts, involving any considerable amount, arc tn be made only by authority from the Executive Committee nr tin i teneral ( MEcers. li. A Record of all Orders must be kept in each field. 7. As far as possible, the wants of each field should lie antici- pated by the person whose business it is tn order supplies fur ii. so that there may be time tn till the orders before the former supplies are exhausted, — i. e., in time to meet the wants tor which they are orden d. 8. Standing Onhrs fur Weekly Supplies, especially of Publica- 172 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. tions, and of such Food, Clothing, and Medicines as are needed for comparatively regular and constant distribution, should be given from the field, and recorded at the office from which the supplies are sent. 9. Such Standing Orders should be regularly filled each week, until revoked or changed. 10. A Property Book or Record should be kept in every Agency, containing a complete list of all property, such as tents, stores, horses, wagons, harness, saddles, etc., belonging to the Commission. 11. A Monthly Property Report should be made at the close of each month, embracing all the property purchased or received, all disposed of, and all on hand. 1 2. A Monthly Pay Roll should be made out in each Agency, embracing the name, compensation, time of service, date of employ- ment, etc., of each employe in the field embraced by the Agency: and all employes should be paid oft' at the close of each month, receipts taken from each person on the Pay Roll, and the Roll sent to the Central Office. 13. A Monthly Cash Statement should be made by each Agency tn the office from which the supplies and money for its field are drawn. The following regulations refer to the care of property or slock : — ■ 1. Purchases of Property or Stock, such as horses, wagons, har- ness, tents, stores, etc., can be legitimately made only upon authority, special or general, from the Executive Committee. 2. In each department or field an account must be kept of all Stock: 1. On hand; 2. Purchased or received; 3. Sold or sent away; 4. Lost, destroyed, or dead; — specifying in whose charge and where. 3. At the close of each month a report shall be made, specific and full, from each department or field, by the Agent in charge, to the Central Office, of all Property or Stock purchased or received, sold or sent away, lost or dead, and of all on hand, specifying where it is, in whose charge, and in what condition. 4. A General Summary of these reports, from all the departments THE THIRD YEAR. 173 or fields, shall be made cadi month, and presented to the Executive Committee at its first stated meeting after they shall have been received. 5. Inspection shall be made from time to time, by such persons or committees as maybe appointed for the purpose, and the condition of all the Stock or Property of the Commission ascertained, and reported by the inspectors to the Central Office, and brought before the Executive Committee. (>. An account shall be kept at the Central Office of all Stock or Property on hand, purchased or received, sold or sent away, lost or dead, in eactf department or field. For reasons elsewhere stated 1 the details of home or- ganization were left mainly to the Auxiliary Committees, to arrange in their own fields according to the special cir- cumstances and necessities of each case. They employed such canvassing and collecting agents, and for such periods, as might seem to them desirahle. There were a few Home Agents, however, for holding public meetings and making collections, whose salaries were paid and whose general movements were directed from the Central Office. Prominent among these were Rev. C. C. Mc- ( labe, whose principal labors were in the West; Rev. B. W. Chidlaw, who for a number of months divided his time between the Commission and the American Sunday- School Union, and who was mainly employed in Ohio and the neighboring States; and Rev. Robt. Patterson, D.D., who labored East and West. Their services were manifold and of great value. Rev. Geo. J. Mingins, although his official relations were with the New York Committee, did frequent and efficient service for the Central Office, both in the Eastern States and in Cali- fornia. 1 See p. 155. 1 74 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Prominent in the operations of the year was the pro- vision of Chapel Tents for the Eastern ami Western armies. To make the history of these tents fully intel- ligible it will be necessary to go back a little. One of the first wants felt by the army chaplains was that of a suitable place for holding religions and social meetings. The government did not furnish chapel tents, nor did it at the outset provide for their transportation, should they he furnished by others. Tt often happened that there were tents or barracks, in the hospitals or camps, which the chaplains could use, but this was generally depen- dent upon the courtesy of the officers in charge. 1 Among the questions addressed by Mr. Colyer, in August, 1861, to the Chaplains of the Army of the Potomac, 2 this matter was introduced. In the replies returned by Chaplain A. H. Quint, of the Second Regiment of Mas- sachusetts Volunteers, it stands thus: Question, "Have you a suitable tent for public meetings?" Answer, "No." Question, "Do you think it desirable to have one?" Answer, "I doubt it, as we cannot get it trans- ported by Quartermaster." It was quite natural, there- fore, that the subject of chapel tents"' should come 1 Chaplain A. M. Stewart, of the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Regiment, writ- ing from Camp Scott, York, Pa., May is, 1861, says that inasmuch as neither State nor National Government made provision for religious services, and the accommodations at camp wort- crowded, a chapel tent was furnished for his regiment " hy the advice and liberality of friends in Pittsburg." — Camp, March, and Battlefield, p. 7. A portion of the regiments were similarly favored, even in those earliest days. 2 See p. 95. 3 Under date of Upton's Hill, Va., Nov. 1&, 1861, Rev. John S. Inskip, Chaplain of the Fourteenth Regiment New York State Militia, writes to the Army Committee of the New York Young Men's Christian Association, "1 write to inform yon that a new era lias dawned upon us. We can scarcely find wonts to express our joy ami gratitude. The chapel tent yon kindly donated Tin: THIRD Yi:.\i:. 175 prominently before the Convention at which the Chris- tian Commission was formed; for their great value and necessity were manifest, although chaplains might well hesitate about assuming the care of such tents, when the first movement of their regiments would probably see them abandoned or destroyed. It has been seen that the Convention voted to memorialize the Government touching the matter,' and in accordance with that vote, immediately after the adjournment of the Convention, the following memorial was prepared and forwarded to the Secretary of War, under date of New York, Nov. 15, 1861: — To the Hon. Simon Cameron, Secretary of War: — Sir: In pursuance of a vote passed at a Convention of the several Young Men's Christian Associations of the country, held in this city, on the 14th and 15th instants, the undersigned officers of said Con- vention would respectfully represent, that from evidence furnished by chaplains and others, whose testimony is entitled to full confidence, a great want of tents, or other accommodations suited to the purposes of religious exercises and social worship, exists in the army, and thereby the labors of the chaplains are much embarrassed and rendered irregular, and in some instances have been unavoidably suspended, thus depriv- ing the soldiers of the moral ami religious influences so indispensable to n« has already been the means of inconceivable good to us. It is truly won- derful what a decided improvement it lias made in our regiment within on< week." Chaplain [nskip gives an account of the uses to which they put their tent : — Monday evening, a temperance meeting; Tuesday evening, meeting of a literary and debating society; Wednesday and Thursday evenings, prayer- meetings; Friday evening, "an amateur concert of miscellaneous music;" Saturday evening, a social meeting for singing and informal conversation; Sunday, preaching in the morning and evening, and a prayer-meeting in the afternoon. 'Plus will serve a8 a fair illustration of the Usefulness of these chapel tents. See Rebellion Record, Vol. Ill, document p. 375. I See p. loo. 176 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. to elevation of character and efficiency in the public service. In view of the foregoing facts, and the interest already evinced by the Government in the religious condition of the army, the undersigned respect fully request, in behalf of the Convention and the Christian public, that such accommodations as have been indicated herein be provided by the Government. This action aided in directing public attention to what now seems an obvious need. As no church could long exist without a place of worship, so no regiment could expect more than the most meagre religious prosperity without possessing some sheltered and convenient place that could be controlled for religious uses. 1 Some reei- ments were supplied with chapel tents, through the efforts of their chaplains, by churches or individuals, and many chaplains manifested a great desire for similar conveniences, notwithstanding the trouble which their possession might occasion. 2 During the very first visit of the Commission to the army, 3 Mr. Demond wrote to Mr. Stuart from Washington, under date of December 14, 1861:— 1 The chaplain of the IT. S. A. General Hospital, Frederick, Maryland, writes under date of January 11, 1863: "The one great drawback which I experience is the want of a chapel, or some spacious room in which to conduct religious worship. The hospital grounds embrace, I am told, fifteen acres, on which there are more than twenty extensive buildings; and yet there is no place in which I can congregate our numerous convalescents. This is the more to be regretted inasmuch as a deep religious interest is known to exist in the minds of many." 2 Rev. J. W. Alvord, writing to Mr. Stuart under date of Washington, De- cember 17, 1861, recites the same facts that are given in Mr. Demond's letter of the 11th, and adds the gratifying statement, " I have just seen General Meigs (Quartermaster-General), who has kindly secured an order from the Secretary of War for the transportation of Chapel Tents, whenever any tents are carried." 3 See pp. 108-110. THE THIRD YEAK. 177 Iii my visits to the camps to-day I have found a great desire for chape] tents, and have seen some. There are chaplains now who have the money on hand sufficient for the purchase of such tents, and who are looking to our Commission to aid them in the matter, — either by procuring the tents for them or telling them where they can get good ones, honestly made, and for a reasonable price. Can you not get estimates from some honest Christian sail-maker in Philadelphia, who will make these tents at a little profit, and who can he relied upon to do the work well? If such a man should make lqi a dozen and advertise them, with a reference to you, I do not doubt he would quickly dispose of them. Notwithstanding the attention of the Commission was thus early called to the necessity and value of chapel tents, comparatively little was done in furnishing them for the army until the autumn of 1863. This delay wtis in part due to the excessive demand upon the resources of the Commission, which rendered it impossi- ble to regard many calls that were alike worthy and urgent; and in part to that unsettled condition of affairs, already several times referred to, which made all measures looking toward long-continued efforts yield to tem- porary expedients for immediate relief. In November, 1863, the Commission had but four chapel tents in the Army of the Potomac. In the correspondence between the Central Office and Mr. Cole, General Field Agent, it had been suggested that the Commission could per- haps furnish to each brigade a canvas roof, technically called a "fly," as a covering for a chapel, if the soldiers would put up the walls. This suggestion was presented to the chaplains of the army, at a meeting held in the tent of the Commission, Brandy Station, Dec. 26. The chaplains thereupon adopted the following minute: — 23 178 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. "Whereas, The Christian Commission has nobly offered to each Brigade of the Army of the Potomac a " fly" for a chapel tent, therefore it is by the chaplains of the Army of the Potomac, Ii'cxri/ml, 1. That we are most grateful for the offer of the Christian Commission, and accept it as one of the many tokens that God has raised up this organization to do just what the army needs. /,'< solved, 2. That we respectfully suggest to our friends and brethren of the Commission, that in many cases a "fly" for the use of a regiment will be of vast advantage to the cause of God ; and we trust that the Executive Committee will find it possible to furnish such " flies" to regiments needing them. At the meeting of the Executive Committee held Dec. 29, it was voted to furnish, " as needed, six chapel tents and forty canvas roofs for chapels to be erected by the soldiers." The result of this action was all that could have been hoped for. Both the regular chaplains and the Delegates of the Commission were much helped in their work. An unusual religious interest pervaded the army. Multitudes were converted to Christ. 1 The peculiar adaptation of the Commission to the great emergency was seen in a new light. The way had been 1 Rev. H. A. Reicl, chaplain of the Fifth Regiment Wisconsin Volunteers, writes to Mr. Stuart from the headquarters of the regiment, near Brandy Sta- tion, Va., under date of Feb. 22, lsi'>4: — "Your agents here furnished us a ' lly' t.i cover and a stove to warm the house we huilded to the Lord, and on the 19th inst. it was duly and formally dedicated to his holy worship. There is a good and encouraging degree of religious interest in the regiment. We hold divine service at 10J o'clock A. M., Sabbath day; Bible class at - p.m., and prayer-meeting at 6 p. M. ; social religious meeting Tuesday evening, and prayer-meeting Thursday evening. And these meetings are all well attended, and heartily engaged in by the men. We have an excellent choir, consisting of twelve or thirteen members, and among them seven commissioned officers, with our colonel himself as chorister. The other evenings of the week are occupied for lyceum, spelling-school, choir practice, etc. Once or twice a week 1 go through the regiment, and also out along the picket line, with my haver- sack full of the books, tracts, pamphlets, papers, etc., so liberally supplied by the Commission, and give every soldier something, which they always gladly THE THIRD YEAR. L79 prepared during previous months, by timely and various ministrations to the bodily, intellectual, and religious needs of the men. And now the Delegates could go "everywhere preaching the word" among those whose confidence had been fully gained, and whom the Holy Spirit had made ready to receive the gospel. The wisdom of mingling bodily relief with spiritual instruc- tion was more than justified, — not simply as being in itself a needed and must Christian service, hut as a powerful aid in gaining access to those whose spiritual welfare was the principal motive of the Commission's activity. Pastors and others, who visited the army as Delegates during the winter of 1863-4, declared that their experience was unlike anything known or conceived before. There was a religious revival among the soldi' srs ami thankfully receive. Anil I am persuaded that by God's blessing much •4011. 1 is thus being wrought, for other chaplains arc also doing a similar work." In connection with this pleasant picture of religious HIV- in camp, Mr. Reid forw ards As - Original Hymn, written for the Dedication of the Chapel of /In- Fifth Begi- Wiwmsin Ynliini,,,\<, l>ii Ilrr. II. .1. Iln'il, chaplain of thi Regiment, and tfutly in cribedtothe '". .v. Christian Oomrm sion, as a slight token of our gratitude for Us main/ hind, liberal, and helpful benefits: — Thou God of majesty and power, Ami as Thou call's! us forth to Bghl Who rulest earth, and sea, and shy. Ourcountry's, man's, and freedom ( 1 lei Thy favor crown this hour. Lord, lead us, till victorious Right And lift our waiting souls on high. Shall give our war worn arms repose. lin temple, poor as we arc frail, — grant our righteous cause success, An emblem lit ol man' e tate, Thai still our nightly couch may be 11 Thou who dwell'st within the vail. A. day' march ae r tquered peace, To The- in Christ we consecrate. A. day' march nearer 1 and 11 ee Accept it. Lord, and let Thy grace And as Thou giv'sl us strength to do. Within these walls be fell and known; And hearts to dare, through gain Lei soulfl here meet Thee face to t May wc be freedom's soldiers true. And 1 1 liv faith mi Thee alone. Nor 1. [diers of the ISO ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. which made labors at home seem formal and fruitless, and the opinion was expressed, by clergymen of most mature and sober judgment, that the prosp>ect was more encouraging for the conversion of men in the army than oul of it. It was felt to be worth a journey to the army to find men who were positively eager to learn the way of salvation, and they were found there by thousands. It was from tins remarkable religious interest, and its influence in the army and at borne, that the demand arose for the general enlargement of the Commission, which has been noticed above. But more especially, it determined the Commission to devise more liberally for similar necessities, as their increased resources enabled them to do, during the winter of 1864-'5. As the armies began their preparations for winter quarters, appeals came from the fields East and West for a supply of chapel tents and chapel roofs. After making pro- vision for several separate requests, the Executive Com- mittee, at their meeting of December 13, 1804, voted "to authorize the Committee on Field Organization to com- ply with the requests from the various fields, including those now in process of fulfilment, at their discretion, to an amount in cost not exceeding forty thousand dollars." The money thus appropriated was expended as the winter advanced. The cost of a chapel tent was about five hundred and twenty-five dollars, and of a chapel roof about two hundred dollars. For some permanent stations chapels were built of lumber, and a few porta- ble houses, ingeniously constructed, were sent from Cin- cinnati to points in the AVestern field. In several instances a chapel tent was paid for by a church or a benevolent person, the tent inscribed with THE THIRD YEAR. L81 an appropriate name, and frequenl reports sent to the donors by those who might be in temporary charge of the religious services. The Brooklyn and Long Island Christian Commission gave five thousand dollars to pur- chase ten chapel tents, and furnished each with a valu- able library. The Branch at Cleveland gave one thou- sand dollars, and thus provided for two tents. The soldiers often showed no little skill and taste in constructing their army chapels, making out of their rude materials buildings that were neat, commodious, and attractive. 1 The dedications of these "tabernacles in the wilderness" were occasions of great interest,-' and were frequently participated in by the prominent clergy- 1 Rev. J. T. Duryea, of New York, in an address before a < Ihristian Commis- sion meeting in that city, March 15, 1865, gave an account of a recent visit to the Army of the Potomac. Among other things he said, in speaking of a Sab- bath morning service, "We were gathered in one of those chapels which the Christian Commission has built, numbering one hundred and forty throughout the army. The logs are piled one upon another, morticed at the corners of the building, and the interstices are filled up with cohesive Virginia clay, and then over the whole is thrown what the soldiers call a ' fly,' which is a piece of canvas covering the tent, and which admits the light but does not allow the rain to enter." And again: — "Taking a hasty meal with the chaplain, an orderly came with two horses, which we mounted and rode on until we reached a chapel built of undressed cedar, in the Gothic style, by a regiment of Engi- neers, which, if composed of hrown stone, would have graced any avenue in New York. It was thronged with about fifteen hundred people. In one wing iv as i group of ollieers, from almost the highest rank in the army to the lieu- tenant of companies; and there we had a son of dedication service of thai beau- tiful temple to the Most High God." ti v. Thos. II. Pearne, of Oregon, who served the Commission as o Dele- ■ irly in the spring of lsiio, in giving a report of hi- work, writes : Hie chapel tents are a crowning feature of the Christian Commission, \i that of the regiment of Chaplain Lane, of the 193d Pennsylvania Volunteers, some iiinetv soldiers profess to have found the Saviour. At that of the 205th Penn- sylvania Volunteers seventy-five professed conversions are reported, all of them in both regiment- within five or six weeks. Ii was my privilege to dedicate L82 \\\\i.s OF nil: CHRISTIAN commission. men of our large cities. The subjoined extract from an article in The Methodist, of N>'\\ York, February 25, 18(55, gives a good statemenl of this feature of the Com- mission's operations : — The Christian Commission luis had all its en orgies taxed during the present winter in its efforts to supply our armies with the Gospel. Twenty tents, thirty by fortj feet, oosting betwoon five and sis hun- dred dollars, and larger than any heretofore usod For this purpose, have been erected al various points in the A.rraies of the Potomao, James, Shouandoah, and Cumberland; aboul one hundred and ten chapel flies, varying in siie From the enormous sixty b) forty feet down i" the twenty bj thirty feet, have been also purohased, to Berve as oovers for the numerous chapels erectod by the soldiers themselves in the Bold uear their encampments. In the West, in addition to the above, several houses have been purchased l>\ the Cincinnati Branch of the Commission, and have been Bent forward into the Anu\ of the Cumberland, One of the mosl interesting features of the work has been the alaority with which the soldiers have entered into the undertaking of erecting the walls for their chapels, In some in- stances buildings of the mosl beautiful description, charmingly adorned with tasteful decorations of many kinds, have been pm up, the soldier* Booming to vie with each other in their exertions to make their tabernacles in the wilderness as pleasant and happy-looking as possible. Ml these ohapels the Commission lm< covered witli sub* tantial roofe and supplied with stoves, General Gregory, of Penn- sylvania, desoribed with much feeling, :\t the recenl Anniversary Meeting of the Commission in Philadelphia, the appearance of the beautiful chapel oreotod by his own men, and fitted up, after being covered and furnished by the Commission, with all the art and i :<>c •• the soldiers were masters of, from rough materials, suoh as pine boughs and logs and twigs, whioh wore woven into every conceivable pattern for ornamenl and use, Surely these men, who have with their own hands built their chapels, will love to gather together three of those ehnpel tents during my term of service for the Commission. V colonel said to me thai he regarded theiu as doing more good than all iis other appliances," Ufa- CHAPEL AT MEADE STATION, VA.— EXTERIOR. THE THIRD YEAR. 1 So within these rustic walls, and will sing the high praises of God, and send up their petitions, with an earnestness which only soldiers can feel. A happy thought of the officers of the Commission lias been to interest Christians at home in the success of these chapels, and in response to various appeals quite a number of churches throughout the country have forwarded to the Commission enough funds to pur- chase a lent, which, when erected, has been called after the name of the church, or pastor, or by any other title chosen. Two congrega- tions in Aeailcmia, Juniata County, Pennsylvania, about the close of November last, were the first to adopt this plan, and together thej provided tor the erection of the Thompson Tuscarora Tabernacle. Three churches in Philadelphia followed, and others in various parts of tin untry. One touching incident, in connection with the naming of these chapels, is the title given by a merchant of New York to one which he had erected in memory of his deceased child; it was called "The Memorial Tabernacle." Amino monument of profounder significance, or of more beautiful comment upon the triumph of life over death, and of the sweet remembrance of the dead, could be thought of. The Christian Commission to-day is engaged in a work of church extension which is absolutelv unparalleled in any other field of Christian effort. It is a new thing under the sun that one hundred and thirty houses for the worship of God can be put up within a few weeks, and stranger still that in every one of these bouses ser- vices can be held, far surpassing any that we hear of at home, not every Sabbath only, but every night in the week, anil three times mi the Sabbath besides. A description of the chapel at Meade Station has been preserved, as written at the time of its erection, and is here given in connection with the excellent pictures of its exterior and interior. Meade Station was situated on what was called "General (Jraut's Railroad," and Wits therefore not tar from the front. The chapel was erected in the winter of 1 sc» 1— '->. A corresponded of the Sunday-School Times thus describes it : — 1S4 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Nothing in this region has excited so much interest among the soldiers as the United States Christian Commission Chapel, erected by the soldiers, under the supervision of Lieutenant Thomas Char- tres, of Brooklyn, N. Y., the efficient Agent of the Commission for the Ninth Corps. Thousands from all parts of the army have come to this station to see this gem of the battlefield. Visitors from the Xorth, East, and West, do not think of departing without entering it. The chapel is twenty-three by forty-three feet, having on the front a porch six by seven, mounted with a belfry and spire fifteen feet high, made of small pine poles, arranged in squares and trian- gles, so as to present a very beautiful piece of rustic work. The front door is ornamented with the same style of work. The flag of the Commission floats above the whole. The body of the chapel is a stockade, made in the following way : A trench two feet deep is dug. of the exact size which the building is to be: pine logs, about ten inches in diameter and twelve feet long, are split in the centre and hewn ; these halves are erected side by side in the trench, the hewn side within, and fastened in their places by the earth. The gable ends are filled with pine poles running on an angle with the rafters ami meeting in the centre; the crevices between the poles and halves are plastered up with the "sacred soil," which effectually keeps out wind and water. The whole is covered with a canvas. The inside is furnished with a floor of rough pine hoards and seats of the same material, without cushions or back to entice the occupant to sleep. The ceiling and walls are as fresh-looking and neat as the white canvas above and the split pine around can make it. The rafters are trimmed with cedar evergreens and holly, having a wreath suspended from the centre, causing the ceiling to present the appearance of a beautiful arbor; three poles, wound with ever- greens, hang from the ridge pole, from which are suspended kerosene lamps; a border of evergreens and holly decked with its bright red berry, a foot wide, hangs around the walls. The front gable end is covered with evergreens of various kinds, promiscuously arranged, having in the centre the corps badge, — a shield bearing a cannon ami anchor, — surrounded with a wreath. The rear end has a back- ground of white muslin; three wreaths adorn it, the centre one being brighter than the others, and festoons hang in graceful curves between and beside them. The left hand wreath has a blue hack- CHAPEL \l MEADE STATION, VA- INTERIOR. THE THIRD YEAR. 185 ground, bearing in white letters the word "9th;" the centre wreath lias the corps badge, with a rod back-ground ; the right hand wreatb lias a white back-ground, bearing in red the letters "A. ('." Arranged in the are of a circle, over the centre wreath, is the sentence, "god is love." The letters are made of cedar tips. The pulpit is a breastwork, live feet wide, having a column on each corner, and a few inches back of each are other columns. The columns and spaces between are richly ornamented with pine rods, so artistically arranged as to present one of the most novel and beautiful pulpits ever preached in. It was constructed by Mr. Lewis Cole, a private of the Nineteenth New York Battery. A small .-pace of ground around the chapel is fenced in with poles. hung with pine boughs; walks lined with young trees divide the lot into squares. There is such a quiet home-like appearance, without and within, that the soldiers love to assemble here to worship the God of their fathers. Every night this chapel is crowded with earn- est and inquiring souls, and from its altar goes up constant incense to the Lord of our country and the Saviour of our souls. Iii selecting a detailed illustration of the services held in the Chapel Tents, the choice is made difficult by the num- ber at hand, each well worthy of preservation. The follow- ing is taken as coming from a distant portion of the field. It is from a letter addressed to the New York Committee, under date of Morganzia, Louisiana, January 5, 1865: — It has been in my heart some days to give a more detailed report of lie- work of the Commission in connection with tin' chapel tent. It affords facilities for the distribution of reading-matter and sani- tary Stores. My circulating library is quite an institution in itself. Here are about six thousand soldiers in camp. They find much time for reading. I am happy to say that many of them appreciate and improve the opportunity. At the same time, the tent is fitted up for religious meetings. This seemed to be needful ; first, from the fact thai SO lew chaplains are in the service (only one at this place now i ; second, the soldiers need a rallying point, around which they can gather for devotions, especially in the months of the winter. 21 18(3 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Sunday evening, October 9,1 commenced an evening meeting, which has been continued with growing- numbers and interest to thi> time ; preaching on Sunday and "Wednesday evenings; prayer-meetings other evenings; Bible class Sunday forenoon, largely attended by officers and men. The prayer-meetings have been most effective. Friday evening, Oct. 28, there seemed to be a solemn spirit prevailing; on invitation to the thoughtful and anxious, to the surprise of some, nine soldiers rose for prayer. Since then there has been a constant revival. Not less than twenty have received salvation in connection with these meetings. At no time has the work appeared so deep and hopeful as at the present. Some cases have been of special interest The testimonies of pious soldiers in meetings are truly edifying. < >ne was converted seventeen years ago, amid storm and tempest, in the moun- tains of Virginia; another thanks God that he was converted on the broad prairies of Iowa ; another on Pine Creek; another in a rude chapel in Kentucky; ami another at his bedside in Massachusetts. Nearly all bless God for praying mothers. In a word, these meet- ing.- are of thrilling interest, great occasions, — sometimes as many outside as inside the tent. There is the most perfect decorum. I confess that my heart is warm as I write. To me it is a luxury to serve such a cause The boys now propose to build a chapel, in addition to my tent, so that we will be better able to accommo- date the large numbers who desire to attend the meetings. This extended reference to the chapel tents of the Christian Commission may be properly concluded by the testimony of Dr. George T. Stevens, Surgeon of the 77th Regiment New York Volunteers, in his work en- titled Three Years in the Sixth Corps, p. 300: — The Christian Commission, among other good things which it did for the soldiers, and this was among the best, made arrangements by which it loaned to nearly every brigade in the army a large canvas, to be used as a roof for a brigade chapel. These chapels were built, of logs, ami were covered with the canvas, and were in many cases large enough to hold three hundred people. Here religious services THE THIRD YEAR. 187 were held, not only on Sundays, but also on week-day evenings. A deep religious interest prevailed in man} of the brigades, and greal numbers of soldiers professed to have met with a change of heart Several features in the operations of the Commission were either introduced during this year or were advanced to greater prominence and influence than before. Chief among these were the organization of Ladies' Christian Commissions, as a part of the home machinery, and the sending of a Deputation to the Pacific coast ; and in the army the establishment of Special Diet Kitchens for the very sick in hospital, the enlargement of the service of " Individual Relief," and the management of day schools for the colored troops. But these will more properly he recounted elsewhere. A Convention of the Western Branches of the Com- mission assembled in Indianapolis (in Wesley Chapel), on Tuesday, November li'.», and continued in session three days. All the Auxiliaries West of Pittsburg were repre- sented by many of their best men, as were also the prin- cipal stations of the Commission in the Western armies. Rarely has such a gathering been more strongly charac- terized by earnest attention to business and by a spirit of Christian devotion and harmony. All felt that (iod ha«l committed to them, as stewards, the most important trusts, and that they were animated by common desires and aims. Interesting reports wen' made from the various home districts. The work in the army was passed in review. Plans were laid for more efficient and systematic co-operation. The hearts of all were quick- ened and refreshed by the opportunity furnished for Christian intercourse, and by the renewed consciousness 188 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. of being engaged in one of the noblest enterprises of patriotism and Christianity. The battle of Franklin, Tennessee, took place during the sitting of this Conven- tion. Immediately upon adjournment, a number of the members left for Nashville to assist in caring for the wounded, and remained until after the fierce and decisive engagement at that jdace. The condition of our prisoners, held as captives at the South, engaged a large share of public attention during the year. The reports of destitution, cruelty, and fright- ful mortality, in the principal military prisons of the South, roused intense indignation throughout the North, and an equally strong desire to send relief to the unfor- tunate and maltreated men. The rejiorts heard were confirmed by the testimony, and more convincingly by the starved and suffering condition, of those prisoners who returned North upon being exchanged or paroled. Many died on the passage, or soon afterward. A care- ful investigation of the current reports, with an exami- nation of many of the prisoners shortly after their re- lease, by an able committee of professional men acting under the auspices of the U. S. Sanitary Commission, substantiated the worst public rumors. The Christian ( nmmission, as has been seen in the previous chapter, was ready and eager to render such assistance in this matter as might be within their power. Early in Octo- ber, 1864, the Commission was memorialized by several prominent clergymen and others, of Brooklyn, New York, in behalf of the Brooklyn and Long Island Chris- tian Commission, and urged to appoint a National Com- mittee, to whom the whole subject should be referred, to make thorough investigation of all the facts in the case, THE THIRD YEAR. 189 and to devise, if possible, some method of relief. After some delay, for deliberation, consultation, and corres- pondence with the Government and with influential cit- izens, the proposition from Brooklyn was favorably en- tertained by the Executive Committee, and the desired Committee was appointed. It afterward seemed best, in consideration of the action of the Government and the Sanitary Commission, that the course of the Christian Commission should be somewhat modified. Instead of entering upon a formal investigation, it was determined that the Commission should at once endeavor to send a deputation to the Southern prisons, to carry and admin- ister to the prisoners, from the stores of the Commission, such relief as might be practicable and permitted. Ac- cordingly the following letter was addressed to the See- retary of War: — U. S. Christian Commission, Central Office, 11 Bask Street, 1 Philadelphia, October 31, 1S64. J Hon. Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War: — Dear Sir: Permit me, in accordance with instructions from the Executive Committee of the United States Christian Commission, to inform you that we are very desirous of reaching the Union prisoners in Rebel prisons with efficient reliefand benefit. And for this purpose we propose asking the so-called Confederate authorities to admit a suitable number of unexceptionable Delegates of this Commission, with stores and publications, to visit and minister to our prisoners. Will there be any impropriety in this? Will the national interests be in any way prejudiced by it? Will the Government permit us to assure the so-called Confederate authorities that, if desired by them, the favor will be reciprocated ? With highest respect, your obedient servant, Geo. H. Stuakt, Chairman U. S. C. C. To this request the War Department replied as follows : — 190 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Was Department, Adjutant-General's Office,'! Washington, December 7, 1864. J Geo. H. Stuart, Chairman U.S. Christian Commission, Philadelphia, l'u.: — Sir : The United States Christian Commission, of the city of Phila- delphia, having expressed its desire to send a suitable number of un- exceptionable Delegates of the Commission, with stores and publica- tions, to visit and minister to the Union prisoners in Southern pri- sons, with efficient relief and benefit, and Lieutenant-General Granl having approved the plan, permission is hereby granted to the Com- mission to send a number of good Christian men for the object pro- posed, whose names and residences, and the points to which it is proposed to send them, will first be communicated to the Adjutant- General of the Army at Washington. In return, authority will be granted, if desired, on application to Lieutenant-Genera] Grant, to proper Christian Agents of the South, to visit and administer to pri- soners taken in arms against the United States, and held in our prisons. I am sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. Townsend, Assistant Adjutant- General. Under date of December 21, Mr. Stuart wrote to Col. Townsend: — U. S. Christian Commission. Central Office, 11 Bane Street, 1 Philadelphia, December 21, lsi',4. / Col. E. D. Townsend, Assistant Adjutant- General, Washington, D. C: — Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of the 7th instant, in answer to the request of the United Slates Christian Commission, to send their Delegates, with stores and pub- lications, to our soldiers in Southern prisons. Allow me to thank you for the favor with which that request has been entertained, and for the kind terms in which your reply is expressed. .... I would also, as you ask, forward the following names of gentlemen, with their residences, whom we propose sending upon the designated errand. They have signified their readiness to go, and most of them will doubtless be recognized by you as prominent THE THIRD YEAE. 191 Christian men, most loyal and true. The names are, lit. Rev. C. I'. Mcllvaine, d.d., Cincinnati, Ohio; Rt. Rev. Alfred 1 i>.i>..' Wilmington, Delaware; Rev. E. S. Janes, i>. n., New York; Rev. Win. A.dams, n. i>., New York; Mr. Norman White, New York; Geo. II. Stuart, Philadelphia ; Horatio < rates Jours, Philadelphia. A- to the points where ii is proposed to send them, we cannot par- ticularly specify. The continually changing field of the war, and the changes made and liable to be made in the location of Southern prisons, renders such specifications difficult if not impossible. I would therefore respectfully ask that they be granted general permis- sion to visit the Southern prisons, — the particular places to be left to the necessities and exigencies of the case and their own judg- ment, — always premising that upon this, as upon every other point in the undertaking, we wish any direction and suggestion you may be pleased to give. I am sir, with great respect, your obedient servant, Geo. II. Stuart, Chairman U. S. C. C. Col. Townsend replied as follows: — War Department, Adjctam ' - 1 m ral's i Iffice, ) Washington, Jiznwary 5, 1865. I Geo. II. Stu let, Chairman U.S. Christian Commission, Philadelphia, Pa.: — Sir: 1 have the honor to inform you, that a copy of your letter of December l!lst having been sent to Lieutenant-General Grant, he has signified his approbation of tin 1 gentlemen named therein for the purpose of visiting our prisoners confined in Southern prisons. The Secretary of War directs me to say that either or all of the gentlemen named, as follows, on presenting themselves to Lieutenant-* General Grant, at his headquarters near Petersburg, will be per- mitted, on the General's pass, and under such instructions as he sees lii to give, to go through the enemy's line on their mission. [Here follow the nanus, as above given.] I am sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. I>. Townsend, Assistant Adjutant- General ' Bishop Lee was appointed as the alternate of Bishop Mcllvaine. whose mi, n -i in the matter was very great, but who felt unable to take part in it personally. Other distinguished gentlemen were also chosen, bul their duties would not permit them to accept the service. 192 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. The gentlemen named wove at once instructed to hasten forward on their errand, and were each furnished with the following COMMISSION. U. S. Christian Commission, Central Office. 11 Bank Street, "> Philadelphia, January, 1S6S. / To all to whom these Presents shall come: — ■ Greeting: The United States Christian Commission have appointed and commissioned a Delegate, to proceed to Richmond, Va., and to such other places in the South as may be accessible to him, to relieve the wants of the Union prisoners now confined in the Southern military pri- sons, by distributing among them food, clothing, medicines, and religious publications. He is strictly enjoined to abstain from reporting anything not allowed by the authorities of the places he may visit, and to do no act that shall bring discredit on the cause in which ho is engaged. All possible facilities and all due courtesies are asked for him, in the discharge of the duties assigned him. Geo. H. Stuart, Chairman U.S. Christian Commission. Attest: W. E. Boardman, Secretary. Bishop Janes, Bishop Lee, and Mr. Jones forthwith set forward, — Dr. Adams, Mr. Stuart, and Mr. White holding themselves in readiness to join their colleagues should the way to the South be found open. On the 14th of January, Mr. Stuart advised General Grant of the coming of the deputation. General Grant replied by telegraph : — City Point, January 19, 1S65. Geo. H. Stuart, Chairman U. S. C. C: — Your letter of the 14th just received and read. When the gentle- men you speak of arrive they will be sent through the lines, if no objection is made on the other side. U. S. Grant, Lieutenant- General. THE THIKD YEAR. IWA The resl of the story may be besl told by the official report of the Delegation: — Report of th< D i of the 17. S. < Christian ' bmmiasion to visit Federal Prisoners of War confined in Southern Prisons. To the Executive Committee of tin U.S. Christian Commission: — Gentlemen: The undersigned, the special Delegation appointed to proceed to Richmond and other places in the Southern States, to vi.-ir and minister to the Federal prisoners of war now held in confine- ment, have the honor to report. That they left their homes on their important mission on Wednesday, January 17, 1865, and arrived at Fortress Monroe, via Baltimore, on Thursday morning. They pro- ceeded at once to City Point, Ya., the headquarters of the armies of the 1 nited States, ami soon after their arrival addressed a letter to Lieutenant-General Grant, who expressed his readiness to receive the Delegation at their own convenience. We accordingly called on tin General, and were favored with an interview which lasted over two hours. We were most cordially received, arid our documents were read with marked interest. The General said that he would give us every facility for carrying out the object of our mission, and promptly placed at our disposal the steamer " Mohansett," giving special orders to have it start by daybreak the next morning, so as to reach Colonel Mulford, our Assistant Agent of Exchange, at Varina, not far from the enemy's lines, before he should leave to meet Com- missioner Ould, the Confederate Agent of Exchange. General Grant also furnished us with a letter to Colonel Mulford, and one to Com- missioner Ould. With the latter, he enclosed the authority under which \\o were acting. The following is a copy of his letter to Colonel Ould: — Headquarters Armies ok the Unites States,') January 1'.'. I -'v. i Cm.. Ro. Oft. ii. Agent of Exchange : — S Enclosed I send you the names of a number of gentlemen, who have been selected by die I'. S. Christian Commission, to go South, lor the purpose of visiting such prisons as they may be allowed to visit, containing Federal prisoners of war, and to see, for the body of which they are members and for the public generally, their condition ami circumstances. Three of these gen- tlemen arc Mow, here waiting your action. 25 l'.»4 AMTAXS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. I will state, that any privilege yon will grant in this matter will be extended to an equal number of gentlemen sent from the South for similar purposes. Should this favor be granted, it will probably serve to satisfy the friends of prisoners, both North and South, of the exaggeration of the reports of suffering so rife in both sections. I would respectfully ask a reply to this at your earliest convenience. Very respectfully, U. S. Grant, Lieutenant-General. We went on board the steamer that same night, and reached Vaiiiia, or Aiken's Landing, early on Friday morning, and ealled on Colonel Mulford, whom we found on the flag-of-truce steamer "New York." We delivered to him the letters furnished us by General Grant, and also the following communication, addressed by your Delegation to General Lee : — Flag-of-Trcce Boat. ) .Tames River, January 20, 1865. i Gen. Robert E. Lee, Commanding Army qflfprthern Virginia: — General: The undersigned have been appointed by the United States Chris- tian Commission, to visit the Federal prisoners of war now confined in the military prisons at Richmond and other places in the South. It has been one of the primary objects of the Christian Commission to minis- ter to the spiritual and bodily wants of sick and wounded soldiers and sailors. Your own suffering soldiers, on the battle-field, in hospitals, and in prisons, have often been the recipients of sympathy and aid from the Delegates of our < lomrhission. We respectfully ask from you a safe conduct to and from your military prisons, to enable us to accomplish the object of our appointment. The under- signed are civilians, and the Christian Commission is a voluntary association. Should our request be granted, we are ready to give such assurances as may properly be demanded of us. Awaiting your reply, we remain, General, Your obedient servants, E. S. Janes, Alfred Lee, Horatio Gates Jones. The whole of these documents were forwarded at an early hour to Commissioner Ould, and were in Richmond that same day. Satur- day proved to be very rainy, which delayed the expected answer, THE THIKD YEAR. 105 but about :! o'clock r. m., Colonel Mulford returned from his inter- view with Colonel Ould, and handed us the following letter, viz.: — Office 0\ S. Assistant Aervr ruu K\( hance ok Prisoners, | I i \(. ..I- I'm ce Steamer "New Ychik." [• Varina, James River, Va., Jan. 21, 1865. > Rev. BlSHOF E. S. .Tanks, d.d!, l.'i. Rev. Bishop At.fi;ki> Lee, d.d., Horatio Gates Jones: — Qenikmen : I liave the honor to inform yon that I am directed by the Con- federate authorities to notify yon, that they deem it inexpedient to grant your request, for permission to visit the Federal prisoners held by them, at this time. Your communication will doubtless he answered by letter at my next interview with the Confederate Agent for Exchange. If so, I will promptly forward the same to you. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Jno. E. Mvlford, L/.-Col. and U. S. Assist. Agent/or Exchange. We returned that night to City Point, and reported al General < ; rant's headquarters. From conversations with returned prisoners and officers of the army, and from information gained from other sources, we are profoundly impressed with the importance of the object which the Christian Commission had in view, in the appointment of this Dele- gation to visit our suffering soldiers now confined in the South. We did hope to be permitted to visit our prisoners and personally minis- ter to their temporal and spiritual comfort, and deeply regret the failure of our attempt to do so. This regret, however, is somewhat lessened by the fact, which was communicated to us by General Grant and Colonel .Mulford, that our Government, under a recent arrangement, is already sending forward supplies of such articles as are most needed by our prisoners; and also that, under the same arrangement, the Christian Commission can send to them a reason- able amount of reading-matter, — which we recommend should be immediately done. Although the present attempt to reach our prisoners has not been successful, yet in our judgment this failure ought not to discourage a similar application at another time. During this visit of the Delegation, we availed ourselves of every opportunity that offered to observe the workings and operations of 196 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. the Christian Commission. At City Point, on the night of our arrival, service was held in the new hospital chapel, by Bishops Lee and Janes, the latter preaching to about four hundred soldiers. While at Varina, awaiting a reply from Richmond, Col. Mulford kindly furnished the Delegation with an ambulance and a proper escort, and we were conducted through the greater part of the Army df the James. We visited various stations of the Christian Com- mission in this army, which we found in a flourishing condition, with their new chapels ready for use and some already dedicated. The Delegates whom we saw at our stations, in both armies, appeared to be men who understood their work, and were deeply interested in the spiritual welfare of the soldiers. They reported to us that large numbers of our brave men attend the meetings in the chapels, and that many evince a deep religious feeling. We were also gratified to learn that brigade schools have been established by our Delegates among the colored troops, and that great anxiety on their part is manifested to improve the advantages thus extended to them. Our Sunday was spent with the Army of the Potomac. Bishop Janes officiated at the headquarters of Brigadier-General Edgar M. Gregory, where he dedicated the brigade chapel, and also preached at City Point at night. Bishop Lee conducted the opening services and preached a sermon, in the new chapel at the headquarters of Major-General Meade. At night Bishop Lee and Mr. Jones attended service at the large hospital chapel near City Point, and made brief addresses. From our personal observation, and from the testimony of the officers and soldiers with whom we had the opportunity of conversing freely, we are persuaded that the Christian Commission is carrying out the object of its organization very acceptably and effectively, and that great spiritual and temporal benefits are being conferred upon the army and navy- We also express it as our judgment, that the considerable amount of funds expended in providing chapels for the army has been wisely employed, — these chapels being indis- pensable, at this season of the year, to the maintenance of public religious services on the Lord's day and at other times. We desire, in closing our Report, to express our grateful acknow- ledgments for the unwearied kindness and courtesy extended to us THE THIRD YEAR. 107 l)y Lieutenant-General Grant, Colonel Mulford, and all other officers of the army with whom we had business or whom it was our pri- vilege to meet. All of which is respectfully submitted. Edmund S. Janes, of New York. Alfred Lee, of Wilmington, Del. Horatio Gates Jones, of Philadelphia. W \siu\croN, B. C, January 26, 1S65. The letter of Colonel Quid, referred to in the fore- going report, was afterward received, and was furnished to the Commission by General Grant. It is as follows: — Richmond, Va., January 24, 1865. Lieutenant-General U. S. Grant, U. S. A.: — Sir: Your communication of the 19th instant, enclosing the names of a number of gentlemen who have been selected by the United States Christian Commission, to go South, for the purpose of visiting our prisoners, has been received. You further state that any pri- vilege granted in the matter would lie extended to an equal number of gentlemen sent by us for similar purposes, and that such action might probably serve to satisfy the friends of prisoners, both North and South, of the exaggeration of the reports of suffering so rife in both sections. < )n the 24th of January, 18(54, in a letter to Major-Genera] Hitch- cock, Commissioner of Exchange, I proposed that a proper number of surgeons, to be selected by their own Government, should be per- mitted to attend prisoners on each side respectively, for the purpose of taking charge of their health and comfort, receiving and distri- buting contributions, and making report, of any matters relating to the welfare of the parties under their care. Although just one year has elapsed since the date of that communication, no answer has been returned. 1 have no doubt but that the persons referred to in your letter are very respectable gentlemen, yet they are certainly n<'t as well suited to minister to the wants of prisoners as accredited offici rs, whose routine of duty makes them peculiarly lilted to relieve the sick and wounded. I therefore respectfully suggest that your application be so changed as to embrace my offer, so long treated with silence. I am quite confident that all the interests of humanity 198 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. will be promoted by the modification. It is true that your prisoners are suffering. It is one of the calamities and necessities of the war, made so not by our choice. We have done everything we can consistently with the duty we owe to ourselves. We intend to do the same in the future. But that great suffering must ensue, if your prisoners remain in our hands, is very certain. For that reason I propose that all of them be delivered to you in exchange, man for man and officer for officer, according to grade, for those of ours whom you hold. Will not the cause of humanity be far more promoted by such a course, than even if, as you suggest, the friends of prisoners, both North and South, are satisfied of the exaggeration of the reports of suffering so rife in both sections? If, however, prisoners are to remain in confinement, at least let us mutually send, to their relief and comfort, stationary agents, whose official duty requires them to devote all their time and labor to their sacred mission. For the reasons stated, I decline the proposed visit of the gentle- men to whom you refer. In doing so, I shall be glad to hear from you whether either of the alternatives presented meets with your favor. Respectfully, your obedient servant, Ro. Ould, Agent of Exchange. The general extent and character of the Christian Commission's operations during the latter part of this year, are briefly and clearly set forth in the following- letter from Mr. Stuart to Mr. Tobey : — U. S. Christian Commission, Central Office, 11 Bank Street, Philadelphia, October 27, 1864. :ET , 1 4. ; Edw. S. Tobey, Esq., Chairman Army Committee, Y. M. C. A., Boston: — Dear Sir: Mr. Rowland writes me, under date of yesterday, that you wish to know " what are the peculiar reasons for calling for fur- ther contributions of money, — what special reasons for further efforts."' I gladly respond, and avail myself of this opportunity to offer for your consideration the following facts, showing the imme- diate and prospective needs of the Commission. I take the present THE THIRD YEAR. 1 • »'• » scale of expenditure as the basis of an estimate for the next six months, which will bring the work to the first of May. 1. The calls are urgent from every part of the great field for more Delegates. Mr. Cole telegraphs for thirty immediately at City Point; Mr. Abbot writes for nearly as many at Washington; Mr. Tisdale wants help at Fortress Monroe; Mr. Miller make- an earnest appeal from the Shenandoah; and the cry comes from the entire circle of stations. Not less than three hundred men should lie kept permanently in the field. This simply to work our stations as they now are, without the enlargement which " winter quarters" may abundantly offer. 2. Our general expenditures last month were over 8180,000. This month they will equal if not exceed that amount. But if the monthly general expenditure from this office, for the next six months, be $150,000, we shall need for this alone, before the first of next .May, the sum of $900,000. 3. Our newspaper distribution, as a necessity, has been increased to 400,000 copies per month, which is not, even with this increase, an adequate supply for the demand. These, at three cents per copy, will cosl $12,000 per month, or $72,000 until May. 4. Libraries for hospitals anil gunboats, which should have been furnished long ago, — three hundred in number, — will cost $25,000. 5. Chapels and chapel covers, for use during the winter, at least i. lie hundred, will cost $30,000. 6. Our Diet Kitchens, now in operation in the West, will call for $10,000 per month, and if our expectations are fulfilled in multiply- ing these kitchens, by introducing thcin into the Eastern armies, this sum must he doubled, — or $120,000 fur the next six months. 7. A single order is before us, principally to answer demands from the Missouri invasion, for one thousand shirts, one thousand pair drawer-, live hundred pair socks, with other articles, — costing in all $10,000. These facts show that, at the very lowest estimate, we should have not less than one and a quarter millions of dollars i sU ,2."i0,()(l(l i before the first of May next. We should also have a large margin for the rapidly multiplying opportunities and demands for extending our work. Of the nature and need of this work there is no occasion to say a word to you. The strongest argument is in the sober and 200 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. solemn figures that I have given. Immediate measures should be taken to bring this matter before every community, congregation, and Christian in New England and the country. No Christian can be unmoved or inactive in view of such unprecedented obligations and opportunities. Yours faithfully, Geo. H. Stuart, Chairman U. S. Christian Commission. Two documents of unusual interest were published during the year, — one coming from the church at home and the other from the army, — both making their aj3- peal for more earnest endeavors in preaching the Gospel to the soldiers. They are here reproduced in full, be- cause of their representative character and permanent value. The first is the " Pastoral Letter" presented at the meeting of the Massachusetts General Association of Congregationalist Churches, June 23. It was pre- pared by Rev Alfred Emerson, of Fitchburg, and Rev. E. P. Smith, General Field Agent of the Christian Commission in the Army of the Cumberland : — Dear Brethren: — The record of the Church of Christ becomes more and more eventful with every passing year. Each new event evolves new responsibility. Especially is it so amid the death grapple with slavery and rebellion, which is now taxing the resources of the nation to its utmost. It cannot, therefore, be inappropriate to call to mind in this letter some of the duties which the passing history of the kingdom of our Lord makes imperative upon us, as churches and disciples. Look at some of the farts. The young men of the land are in arms. Many of them will return no more. They who do come back are to tone and shape society, for at least two generations. For nut a few of them would be men of mark at any time. And for the rest, with three to five years of momentous living, tew will return to be ordinary men. And then we must remember that in coming years, as never before, the prestige of life in the field is to give infill- THE THIRD YEAR. 201 ence among the American people. Thus the future as well as the present is ill the hands of the Army. Now these young men are in a condition at once very perilous and very hopeful. Dear brethren, do they not claim at our hands a large increase of interest and of effort? Two opposite accounts come from the army. One is of increased recklessness, the other of peculiar susceptibility to religious influence. Both are true. The first feeling of a recruit is freedom from re- straint. He is a soldier now, — not a citizen, nor a son, nor a father, nor even a man, — but a soldier. He becomes reckless, wicked. But, after a few months in the field, amid its narrow escapes, the graves of his comrades, its wounds and sickness, not (infrequently in utter disgust at the extreme wickedness of others, he begins to feel his loss cf character, and to hunger and thirst for something better. Speak kindly to that man, of Christ and of eternity, bring him in at a soldier's prayer-meeting, and none so eager as he to listen, or so ready to obey. Thus it has come to pass, that the character of many of our older regiments has become wonderfully changed for the better, as years have passed on. The men have yielded to wise and happy Christian influences'. Those have become humble followers of Christ who scarcely ever entered the sanctuary at home. The infidel and the scoffer have bowed before the cross. Thus too we have to record the remarkable fact, that Christian effort the past year has been far more fruitful in the camp than in our own cities and villages. Still strange contrasts are seen in the army, of gaming and psalm-singing, of prevailing sin and abounding grace, of prayer and profaneness, — Mich profaneness as we never hear at home, such prayer as the churches know nothing of. In the army there is such faithful, fear- less piety, as we can scarcely find in the world beside. The truth is, virtue there has its hot-bed as well as vice. One campaign is an ordinary life-time. In such circumstances character, good or bad, matures with wonderful rapidity. It is as when lava is pouring from the bosom of the volcano. In an hour it takes form, not to be changed till the heavens are no more. Thus the army is not only the hope of the nation, it is also the field of destiny to hundreds of thousands, and, as suggested already, in no small degree of the country itself. 202 ANNALS OF. THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. How important, then, at this hour, the work that we have to do for the soldier, and how full of hope. In the words of one a few weeks since in camp : " The army has hecome a missionary field of the most extraordinary character the world has seen. Nothing is like it or has been like it in the world. The Church has a work to do in respect to this which she does not half appreciate. She must awake to far more earnest effort, far more efficient co- operation than she has yet rendered. The incentives to action are the strongest that can be presented, — the salvation of multitudes who could never be reached before, of multitudes who can never be reached again, a wise care for the vast interests of the future depend- ing on the spiritual condition of the returning troops. Shall they come back to be a blessing or a curse? — as soldiers usually come, or as Cromwell's did, to be foremost in every good enterprise?" Our work for the soldier is urgent too. It must be done quickly, if at all. It cannot be deferred. Soon he will lie on "his gory bed," or he will be a soldier no more. We can toil for him to-day. To- morrow it will be too late. And, dear brethren, let us never forget, that the soldier's claims on us are high and peculiar. Certainly we must not neglect or undervalue any other field of Christian enterprise. We must not relax our endeavors in behalf of the Christless at home and abroad, the Catholic, the freedman, or the slave. Still, we say that the claims of the defender of our country are high and peculiar. Thev far outrun every other of humanity, of brotherhood, of Christian philanthropy. We owe him a debt if gratitude, which many lightly appreciate, but which ive can never pay. His body is the ram- part which holds back the deluge of war from our homes. His valor makes possible this peaceful life in our communities. All we have his valor makes our own. And, oh, at how stern a sacrifice ! Every endurance on the field and in the hospital, every torture in the rebel prison, life itself, — this is the cost to him. The man who dies for us! Can the claims of any other be compared with his? Passing in a moment away-, shedding his blood for us, are we not solemnly bound, if we can, to make it sure that for the soldier the precious blood of Jesus shall avail in the last solemn day? As thoughtfully we weigh all these considerations, is it not plain THE TH HID YKAR. 203 that ton for the soldier*, — for all the defenders of our country, whether by sea or land, — is the duty of the present hour? And hffW is it to be done? Through every instrument, every agency God has put into our hand. Let faithful chaplains know, and let their regiments be made to feel, that the chaplain is the representative to them of the piety and sympathy of the churches. Let choice reading for gratuitous distri- bution be furnished with overflowing liberality, so that the hungry soldier shall never ask in vain for the bread of life. Let every fol- lower of Christ faithfully observe the concert of prayer for the country, on the fourth Sabbath evening in every month. And thence for the soldier let .such fervent petitions rise as Grid will not disregard. There and everywhere, let there bo such earliest interest in the soldier's welfare as shall show our gratitude to him and to God for what he has done, — our deep concern in what still lie has to do. Many young men in the army are gone from our churches and congregations. As individuals let these be warmly remembered by ministers ami Christian friends. They are out of sight, they wander in out-lying pastures, yet still they are of the flock and the fold. Do they not need, may they not claim, special interest and special oaro of those beside the still waters at home? Mariy of our Chris- tian brethren have been absent for years. Could anything be more proper, more salutary in itself, more grateful to the heart of the war-worn veteran, than words of Christian counsel and cheer and affection addressed to him personally by his pastor, by the church to which he belongs? Where is the church that has done its whole duly in respect to those dear absent brethren, — its lighting members ? The Christian Commission is an instrumentality born of the times and already sealed of God. It is the indispensable complement of every oilier agency. It cheers the chaplain. It aids him in giving the Word of ( ioil to those longing for intellectual and spiritual food. It carries the prayers and alms, the piety ami the solicitudes of the sanctuary and fireside, every comfort in its power, to bring directly lo our sons and brother,- in camp and hospital, on pieket-post and in line of battle. To nun gathered ill groups its Delegate brings a fresh invoice of home religion. Hi- sympathies are warm and 204 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. gushing, and he speaks of Jesus and danger and duty as no other man can speak. His words are re-enforced by the most tender associations, and they awaken memories that keep up the sermon long after preaching is over and the camp-fires are gone out. Won- derfully have these efforts been blessed of God. Chapel tents and shady groves in Virginia, Tennessee, and Georgia, have witnessed revival scenes unknown before even in this land of revivals. The Delegates say, on reaching their field, " I had no conception of the blessedness of this work ;" " The churches do not understand it ;" " It is apostolic ;" " I feel as if I were treading closer in the Master's footsteps than ever before;" "I have been thinking all day of that judgment welcome, ' Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, my brethren, ye have done it unto me.'" So Delegates speak. And the permanent agents, who have been toiling in the field from the beginning, are amazed that the churches do not wake up to their duty and their opportunity. Thanks be to God for what has been achieved. But the whole army has not been reached ; far from it. Wickedness abounds. In multitudes still, officers and men are becoming more hardened and reckless. To many old regiments the bread of life has not been offered. Ten new ones a week are going into the field. Thousands of men are falling every day. What we do for the soldiers must be done quickly, now. Brethren, sustain the Christian Commission. Give it the largest possible efficiency. It is one of the best organized, the most economi- cal, the most needed, the most successful agencies that ever cheered the heart of benevolence, or brought relief to man's temporal or spiritual necessities. Give it a large place in your heart and in your contributions. Let its treasury overflow till its work is done. If possible, send your pastor as a Delegate, and fill his hands with gifts for the soldiers, your token of love and gratitude to men who are en- during and perilling everything for you. His short absence, amid the appalling scenes of war, will prove a blessing to him and to the flock to which he ministers. May lie, as others have done, he will bring back from the army the spirit of revival, the richest gift of Heaven, to the people of his charge. Dear brethren, by our faith in God the issue of this struggle is not doubtful. It seems now not far distant. But whether distant or not, amid the fearful scenes that yet must come, by every means in our THE TIIIItD YEAR. 205 band, let us be faithful to the soldier. With'God's blessing; these noble men shall give us back our country, with all its affluence of good. They shall rid our laud of the curse of centuries, and establish universal freedom. They shall make the American name a praise and a blessing in all the earth. Theyshall send down the wise and happy institutions of the fathers to the remotest times. Dear brethren, when this fearful contest is over, and multitudes have returned to share with us the fruits of their valor, — while other multitudes sleep in the shadow of the mountain and the forest, beside the hamlet and the river which their heroic deeds have made immortal, — may we be happy in the consciousness that, as in tin eye of God, we have been faithful to them in every tender human solicitude, every earnest endeavor for their eternal welfare and the Master's honor. 1 The second document referred to was addressed to the ( 'hiistian Commission by a surgeon attached to the Head- 1 Similar expressions of confidence in the Christian Commission, and similar appeals in its behalf, might be cited from the action of all the evangelical denominations in the loyal States. Nut to multiply these testimonials, one will he given as representative of all. The following minute was passed by tin General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, Old School, at its session for 1864, in Newark, New Jersey: —"This General Assembly would ex- press their full confidence in the United States christian Commission; their earnest sympathy in ami unqualified approbation of the great and noble objects it has in view, their high admiration of the heroism which has been manifested by its officers, agents, and Delegates, through much sell-sacrificing devotion to the physical and spiritual wants of our armies and navy, in the camp, on the march, on battle-fields, and in hospitals; their praise of the economy and extraordinary efficiency with which its vast ami widely -ex tended operations have been conducted; and their gratitude to Grod for the success which, through his lil. — in-, lias attended its efforts. "While the < iencral Assembly has nothing to say, except in terms of cordial approval, of all properly conducted organized benevolent enterprises in behalf of the noble and often suffering, men, who on land and sea are defending our national liberties, integrity, and honor, against, a powerful and atrociously wicked rebellion, but would bid all such I iodspeed, — for, alas! there in work enough for all, — they would, and hereby do, in asp. end manner, commend the United States Christian C mission to the liberal sup- port and encouragement of all their churches ami congregations, ami of all the individuals and families comprising them, ami invite their warm co-operation with it. Having the entire confidence and favor of the government, ami ol the 200 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. quarters of the Army of the Potomac. It attracted, as it deserved, great attention, from the official position of the writer and from his impressive and earnest plea for the gospel : — It has never been my pleasure to have the opportunity of listening f (i the claims of the United States ( Ihristian Commission, as presentee! by any of its agents. Almost constant field service during the war. has precluded the possibility of my becoming acquainted with the feelings of Christians North towards the Commission. How do you estimate the importance of its operation ? If the results of its work have been communicated, very great interest must have been excited therein. 1 liar, however, that the sympathy of the churches in the workings of the Commission is not proportionate to the interest they may t'eel in the result of its labors. I am led to infer this from the fact, as I have learned, that it is very difficult to secure, not money, but the services of the right kind of preachers, tin- the must limited period prescribed by the regulations of the Commission. What is the rea- son of this V One might inquire if it be from lack of patriotism ; but, military authorities throughout tin- land ; having unsurpassed, it" equalled, facilities for the conveyance and application of the benefactions of a freely-offer- ing people to those for whom they are designed ; and, as its chief excellence, entitling it to the high regard of Christians, having as its eminent aim and effort to care for the souls of our soldiers and sailors, both officers and privates, supplying them with religious reading, preaching to them the gospel of Christ, with untiring love watching and praying by and with the suffering and dying, ami directing them to the Mood which cleanses from all sin; while it is not behind any other association in the zeal and energy with which it seeks to re- lieve the physical wants of the sick and wounded, the wearied anil naked and hungry; — we invite all to make to it and through it liberal donations of money and sanitary stores and religious hooks and tracts. Ami we would urgently ask that large donations be made speedily, for the need of them is im- mediately great and pressing. Tens of thousands of the sick and wounded are now in the hospitals, and must not be left to any suffering which human means can relieve or prevent. And mighty battles are yet probably to be fought, and other thousands will have to he ministered unto. Let liberal offerings be made at once, to be followed frequently by others still, as long as this war shall keep in tin- field our sons, husbands, and brothers, and friends, and countrymen." THE THIKD YEAK. 207 whenever I have been North, I have found my Christian friends there especially anxious that this war should be fought out to the bitter end. In every prayer-meeting I heard most earnest prayers offered for the efficiency of our armies, for the spiritual as well as the temporal good of the soldiers, — especially for the sick and wounded of their number. Is not this patriotic? Is it not very kind that the soldier should he thus remembered? Then look at the dona- tions that arc made to the Christian and Sanitary Commissions. Are they not magnificent specimens of beneficence? It would seem so. All these arc certainly most commendable, and were the like done in behalf of any other cause it would lie marvellously virtuous. But in this ease, suppose all should pray for the country, make donations, and hope that the war would lie vigorously prosecuted, and do nothing more. If that would do the work, how gladly would our brave sol- diers do all this over and over again, in lieu of the terrible hardships and exposures of their present life, nor think themselves either patri- otic or benevolent. In order to maintain this great and holy struggle, it is necessary that a certain aggregate number of citizens shall be in the field, denying themselves of all that is desirable in life while they live, and ready in any moment to sacrifice that for which a man will give all that he hath. It would be very difficult to select those who, more than some others, ought to make this sacrifice. My country is equally your country, and your country is equally my country. The object for which we are lighting is equally dear to each, and is common to all. Every citizen owes, if need be, his lite to his coun- try. If, to avert from all a general danger, certain particular citi- zens nobly volunteer their services and their lives on the battlefield, would you call it benevolence when some of the rest, who are to -hare equally the reward won by the heroic few, donate a few dollars to relieve the hardships of their brave defenders'.' Do they not OWE everything they have, even to their very lives, to those who are lighting their battles, though under no more obligation to do so than their fellow-citizens, who practically have not sacrificed onus accus- tomed luxury for their country's good? Are not all citizens, and especially Christian citizens, not in the army, under the deepest obligations, demanded alike by common gratitude and justice, to contribute all that may lie expedient to promote the benefit of tie-- 208 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. noble men who soon may lie heavily and cold on the bloody field, for them? And yet there are some very patriotic churches which "don't feel able to spare our pastor, to preach to the soldiers in the army, for more than two weeks at most," although meanwhile good supplies might be obtained to preach quite as usefully at home. The cushioned seats would remain quite as soft, and the temperature of the building would be just as nicely regulated, as if the pastor preached in his accustomed place. Not a week ago I heard a Christian soldier state, in one of our camp prayer-meetings, " I have been in the army three years, and this is the first privilege of this kind that I have enjoyed." All this time the brethren of his own church had not been deprived of a single service in consequence of the war. They had, indeed, prayed for their brethren in the army, but did not feel able to spare their pastor to go and preach to their brethren in the army, though they were spiritually starving and dying in defence of the religious luxuries of those staying at home. I am sure it is only necessary for the churches at home to get a correct view of the facts, to secure the most prompt and unreserved co-operation with the Commission in every particular. Having held official positions in the field, both East and West, which allowed of very extensive observation, and having never in airy way been connected with the Commission, my opinions concern- ing it are perfectly independent ; they are presented on my own responsibility, in the hope that they may help the churches to form a just appreciation of their duties and the privileges in connection with the work under consideration. The advantages which the army offers during the winter, as a field of Christian labor, are unparalleled. At vast expense we send missionaries to preach the Gospel in China and India, where, before one idea can be communicated to the people, weary months must be spent in the study of the language. After this is partially acquired, through innumerable difficulties, the missionary succeeds in collect- ing perhaps an audience, here and there, of children, women, and men, of by no means the most intelligent class. The good work is one eminently of faith and patience. The city pastor has an audience alike composed of different classes and grades, of such variety that on many subjects it is difficult to address more than a small per THE THIRD YEAR. 209 rentage of the audience directly at the same time. Then there are many who are too young, and many others too old, to afford much probability of successful fruition of the seed, no matter how earn- estly ii may have been scattered. All, whether young or old, and of every cla>s, are more or less pre-oeeupied by the various occupa- tions and excitements of city life, tending to preclude meditation on divine things. If that pastor visit the army, as a Delegate of the Christian Commission, he may go from one end of the line to the other, ;niil throughout the entire army he will rind but one style of audience, and that of the best possible class, in this, — it consists almost exclusively of young nun. They possess good average intelli- gence, are not pre-OCCUpied, are not harassed by family cares, they are provided for, they have simply to obey orders when they come, and in the interim have to endure so much wearisome monotony that many, who would not take the trouble to attend church when at home, would now gladly listen to anything or anybody. The soldier's life, though not favorable for reading, is very con- ducive to reflection. The drum beats, and he awakes or gets his rations or pies to lied, as the case may be, until it beats again. Without need for further thought or care, he is (in winter quarters) " as if he were a boy again." His life is thus favorable both to attention and reflection. Of similar age, with common pursuits and dangers, the soldiers have common tastes and feelings. What is adapted to one suits all. The soldiers are willing to hear the truth. I have never attended a meeting held by the Christian Commission that was only half full. As a rule they are overflowing, even where they arc held every evening in the week. It seems impossible to have meetings conducted in the uniform style so common in the churches North. Always, after the first few meetings, a spirit of deep interest is awakened, taking on the character of what is termed a revival. This, I think, is attributable to the fact that the majority of our soldiers have once been under the influence of Sabbath schools or Christian homes, so that the buried seed has only to be a little watered and it springs up with a freshness that is truly reviv- ing to witness. It matters not how profane and irreverent they may have become) with the soldier as with the sailor, the memories of home and the Sabbath-school are very sacred, and even though nothing that is said may in itself interest them, there is always one 27 210 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. certain clue, — let something be said which shall awaken their early associations, and their feelings are immediately enlisted. They will never " go back," as they term it, on their " bringing up." At home, should they be addressed on the uncertainty of life, youth and grow- ing strength form a never-failing shield on which these admonitions are received; but here, touch that point ever so delicately, and every word brings up visions of dead comrades and hair-breadth escapes, to supersede any argument on that question. Death is to them as much a reality as life. The condition of the soldier exhibits an advantage for the recep- tion of truth, like to that which grows out of bereavement. Bo long has he been absent from those he loves he begins to think of them with those who were dead long ago; and as at midnight hour, beneath the silent stars, he keeps his lonely watch, he comes, more than other men, to feel the want of something to love. In this yearning mood the soul is very apt to feel after Clod. Many facts have I met with of soldiers coming off picket much wiser and much happier than when they went on. How, then, is it we have been accustomed to consider the life of the soldier so conducive to profli- gacy ? Because it is so. "When the tide of feeling, rising in the soldier's bi-east, is not taken at the flood by kind counsel and Chris- tian sympathy, it bursts in scattered foam and dissipation. When reflection but starts accusing voices, its spell must be broken by loud oaths, the troubled spirit must be soothed by drink. Therefore is it that most urgent efforts should be made to surround the soldier with every possible religious influence, seeing he is so easily saved from so much. In the absence of these privileges, the men are, week after week, and perhaps month after month, lying crowded in winter quar- ters, the intolerable ennui relieved only by a mutual exchange of all the filthy garbage that the vilest may have scraped from the filthiest kennels of human depravity. The fearful corruption thus engen- dered is truly appalling, rendering the atmosphere too often totally fatal to the last spark of youthful virtue. If the Christian Commission fail to do the work it contemplates it will be left undone. During the winter it is impossible to have religious services in the open air. Yet there is not a tent in the Government service, to my knowledge, provided for this purpose. I cannot conceive of anything in which a benevolent Christian can THE THIRD YEAK. 211 make such a good investment for Christ as in the presentation of a chapel tent to the army. 1 have never seen one in use anywhere but it became, not only the occasion of deep awakening, but also inevitably a centre round which, in various camps adjoining, a work of grace would commence. Besides one or two at each corps hos- pital, there should be one for every brigade in the army. There is no other source, except the Commission, through which reading of any kind, except daily news, will reach the soldier. In no other way hut by an organization of this kind, recognized by the churches and by the Government, can chapels, Christian laborers, and reli- gious reading, lie provided in any measure ; as under no other cir- cumstances could the necessary transportation, posses, ami mail facilities be obtained. Are there not chaplains commissioned on purpose to do this work? Yes, but with some of the regiments only. In the Fifth Corps, which I suppose is as well supplied as any in the army, there are to-day thirty-seven regiments which have no chap- lain. Then, as in every other corps, there is a brigade of artillery, there are independent batteries, division field hospitals, ambulance trains, wagon trains, and all the various headquarters, none of which are allowed chaplains at any time. For all this work there are only six Delegates and two chapel tents. Besides, supposing there was a superfluity of chaplains, what could they do, comparatively, without chapels, books, tracts, etc.? In the Second Corps there are to-day thirty-eight regiments without chaplains; besides all these, the separate commands in it detailed above. With this corps there are now but three working Delegates. All the regular troops that have hi en in the army of the Potomac, with the exception of one regi- ment, have been totally without chaplains, even to bury their dead, ami within a hundred miles of Washington have been less cared for than the recognized heathen. There is a base hospital near City Point for many thousand patients. Shall that be supplied with chaplains, by transferring them from the few regiments which have them? Su far as the magnitude of the operations of the Commis- sion is concerned, it would seem that the presence or absence of a few chaplains, more or less, should scarcely be taken into account. 'fhe Delegate of the Christian Commission has many advantages, lie is subject to no restrictions, except those made in the division "l 21 2 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. the labor by the Commission. If he is not well received in one place, he can walk a few steps further on to another camp. A mis- sionary in Pekin would meet with about as much limitation. He has no military orders to give or to obey. He is understood to be working for the good of the soldier, not for pay ; this is a free pass to the soldier's heart. He comes full of fresh enthusiasm, which is exceedingly refreshing and encouraging, especially to the sick soldier. It does him good to see the clean, smiling face of a civilian, and he likes to tell him of his many adventures; it seems so neighborly. Then comes the mutual sympathy, followed by the gracious word dropped into the open heart of the grateful soldier, who is made happier for the coming week by the friendly interview. If the Delegate happen to come from the same county as some of the men, they feel just like school-boys when visited by a relative from their distant home. The effect is more cheering than any grown-up people at home well understand. The kind of Delegates most needed are not good readers of ser- mons. The real, main work of the Commission must be done by steady, hard-working, faithful Christian men. The most desirable combination, for a good Delegate, would he a happy faculty of ex- temporaneous discourse with cheerful conversational qualities. There are in the army a large number of officers and men of very high intelligence, who, prior to entering the service, were accustomed to the best pulpit talent in the country. For three or four years they have heard but a few occasional sermons, and would seem to receive new life could they but hear once more the inspiring words of their old pastor. Why cannot the best men in the country visit the army occasionally, and encourage the brave men in the performance of those duties they once urged them to undertake? Are they not deserving of it ? Would our comfortable brethren at home be thus making a greater sacrifice for us than we are making for them? It is very desirable that our Christian brethren, who are eager for young men to enter the army, should, as far as possible, share their burdens after they are in it, and thus in our common cause manifest a common sympathy of Christian patriotism. The church which sends its pastor to the army as a Delegate will not lose anything. The advantage is a mutual one. The change is often very beneficial to the health of the Delegate. It opens to him THE THIRD YEA R. 213 a new world, enlarges his knowledge of men, of a thousand tilings which he failed before to comprehend, furnishes him with a new field for illustration, and quickens his zeal for the salvation of men. He preaches over graves here, and he feels that men are mortal. He exhorts men daily to come here to die, and they sit before him in their grave-clothes. The prayer-meetings in the army are not tame, formal, weakly meetings; they are as real as life ami death for sin- cerity and earnestness. I can compare them only to the old Fulton Street daily prayer-meetings during the great revival, and they must contribute to the benefit of the pastor as well as of the soldier. The Holy Spirit seems to be secretly working, in anticipation of the co-operation of God's servants. Both at City Point and nearer the front sinners are coming to Christ, not like stray sheep but as doves flocking to their windows. During the ensuing winter the field will be fully available ; it seems ripe for the harvest, and waiting only for the church to thrust ill the sickle. From what I have seen, I think there is a universal eagerness for religious truth in the army which is beyond all precedent. This is a work which demands no mean offering. It deserves not only the money of the church, but a liberal contribution of its best talent and of its most faithful pastors, as the demands of the Commission may require. B. H, U. S. A. Headquarters, Army Potohac, November 21, 1S64. The Annual Meeting of the Commission was held in Washington City. The business sessions were in the house of the E Street Baptist Church, beginning on Thursday, January 26, 1865, and continuing three days. There were present nineteen members of the Commis- sion, including eight of the Executive Committee; nine- teen Branch Commissions were represented ; and a Dumber id' the Permanent Agents at home and in the tinny were present. The operations of the previous year were reviewed; the action of the Executive Com- mittee in the enlargement of the Commission, as well as in the general management of atl'airs, was approved; the Annual Report, with its statistical exhibits, was pre- 214 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. seated ; congratulations were interchanged and solemn thanks rendered to God, that in the midst of the terrible scenes of civil war so much had been done to mitigate its horrors and temper its severity ; sentiments of Chris- tian brotherhood were strengthened, and pledges of earnest co-operation renewed, — the unanimous purpose being to hold the Commission steadily to the object of its origin, until the country should cease to need its help. The soldiers in the neighborhood were visited, at their camps and posts, and religious services held among them. The President was waited upon by the Commis- sion and their friends, in a body, and interviews were also had with the several heads of departments and other officials. The visit to the President was so strik- ing in itself, and became invested with such peculiar interest, because of the calamity that soon afterward followed in the assassination of Mr. Lincoln, that it deserves a more extended reference. The subjoined account, by one of the party, was published in The National Baptist, of Philadelphia, August 31, I860. It is a fair representation, in terms and spirit, of the memorable event: — The United Suites Christian Commission met in Washington City for its third annual business meeting, en Thursday, January 'J(i, 1865. President Lincoln had ever been so kind to the Commission, officially and personally, that the desire was natural to wait upon him in a body. This desire was early made known to him, and he designated the next day, Friday, at half-past ten o'clock, a. m., as the time when he would receive us. At the appointed hour about one hundred Christian men, from all parts of the North, representatives of the patriotism and benevolence by which the national cause was main- tained at home and the national armies succored in tin' field, were gathered in the East Room of the Executive Mansion. Several THE THIRD YEAR. 215 ladies were of the party, and a few persons were present not connected with tlic Commission. We were arranged along the length of the room, forming a semi-ellipse, and fronting the entrance to the Green Room. In a few moments the President entered, unannounced and unattended, holding his hat in his right hand. All were impressed with the republican simplicity of the scene, and felt that it was a fitting illustration of our American character and institutions. Mr. Lincoln looked worn and tired. Not that he appeared despondent or doubtful of the nation's advancing conflict. His face did not show a perplexed anxiety, nor an eager haste to be free from care ami trial. Bui (he care itself was furrowing his features and deepening their pensiveness. He was met at the door by the Chairman of the Commission, Geo. H. Stuart, who introduced him in a general way to the assembly. In brief and appropriate language Mr. Stuart spoke of the work of the Commission, and of the feelings of those engaged in it towards the national cause, its defenders, and its Chief Magistrate. During this address the President stood with his head slightly bowed, and with an abstracted air that left his eyes lustreless, as though his thoughts were among the imperilled and suffering men for whose comfort he was ever ready to yield his own. As he lifted himself up to reply, his whole aspect changed. All his features kindled into a most genial and attractive expression. A pleasant smile overspread his face, ami his eyes were filled with a gentle, winning light. And yet in every lineament was there that trace of pensiveness which is the crowning charm of an intelligent and beiic\ n- lent countenance. In his short and characteristic reply he disclaimed any title to thanks for what lie had done in furthering the work of the Commission; "Nor," said he, "do I know that 1 owe you any thanks for what you have done. We have all been laboring for a common end. You feel grateful for what 1 have done that is right ; and I certainly feel grateful for what you have done that is right; and yet, in the fact that we have been laboring for the same end, — the preservation of our country anil the welfare of its de- fenders, — has been our motive and joy and reward." The formal speeches concluded, the President proposed to take each of us by the hand. At this point the Chairman of the Commis- sion suggested that as the delegation iire-ent were not simply Chris- tian men, but representatives of a Christian association, which was 216 ANNALS of the christian commission. itself the organ of the Christian sentiment of the nation, it' deemed appropriate by him and agreeable to his own feelings, it would bo gratifying to us to invoke the blessing of God upon our Chief Magis- trate. The President promptly and eordially responded, that it would be agreeable and most fitting, and requested (hat prayer be offered. Bishop E. S. Janes, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, led in prayer. In simple and fervent language he thanked God for the signal displays of his wisdom and love in our national affairs, espe- cially in raising up, and sustaining and guiding in the events of his administration, him who was for us a faithful and trusted leader. He implored the choicest gifts of divine providence and grace, for this and the future life, upon him whom God had most manifestly anointed for the great trust and duty of the hour. There were tear- ful eves and swelling hearts among those who beheld and participated in the wonderful scene. All t'elt themselves lilted up by emotions of gratitude to the giver of every good gift, — the God of our fathers and our people, — and by affection for him upon whom we invoked, as with one heart, the benedictions of the Almighty and Eternal Jehovah, through the blood of Jesus Christ Although our eyes were holden that we could not then see it, yet this was the church of the nation consecrating the lamb for the nation's sacrifice. As we took the President's warm band within our own, and then separated to our work, it was with feelings of strengthened confidence in (Jod. and a firmer purpose to give ourselves in simplicity and fidelity and zeal to the tasks he might appoint. The Public Anniversary of the Commission was held on Sunday evening, January '_'!», in the Hall of the House of Representatives. As before, it was attended by a throng, thousands being unable to find entrance. Hon. Wm. IT. Seward, Secretary of State, presided. Presi- ded Lincoln and Mrs. Lincoln; Vice-President Ham- lin; Secretaries Welles and Dennison; Chief-Justice Chase; Vice-Admiral Farragut; numerous Senators and Representatives; army and navy officials, with many of the rank and tile, were in attendance. Ad- THE THIRD YEAR. 217 dresses were made by Secretary Seward, (Jen. II. Stuart, A. E. Chamberlain, Rev. J. Wheaton Smith, D. J)., Rev. C. M. Butler, d.d., General M. 11. Patrick, Rev. C. C. McCabe, General C. B. Fisk,and Mr. A. D. Richardson. Chaplain McCabe sang the "Battle Hymn of the Re- public," and .Mr. Philip Phillips sang " Your Mission." Both snugs thrilled the audience, and were accompanied with manifestations of extraordinary emotion, — the first stirring every heart like the blast of a trumpet, and the second, by its tenderness and pathos, suffusing all eyes with tears. It was noticed that President Lincoln arose with the throng and joined heartily in the chorus of the " Battle Hymn," and that while Mr. Phillips was singing he shared fully in the emotions of all around him. 1 The Anniversary was repeated in Philadelphia, at the A.cademy of Music, before a crowded and enthusiastic audience, on Tuesday evening, January 31. Addresses were made by Rev. Alex, \lfrd, Rev. B. W. ( "hidlaw, General C. P>. Fisk, Rev. Richard Newton, d.d., Joseph Story, and Rev. Edward Ilawes; Chaplain McCabe and Mr. Phillips sang ; and others participated in the devo- tional exercises. Similar public meetings were held in connection with some of the principal Branch Commis- sions. The financial and statistical exhibits of the year are appended, as showing the extent and details of the Coin- mission's resources and work. • See p. 256. 28 218 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. TABLE I.— R EPOKT OF THE TREASURER. Dr. Joseph Patterson, Treasurer U. S. Christian Commission. Cr. lM>4. $43,547 4t 297,456 35 21,206 84 54,200 00 22,667 55 40,580 02 1,979 24 5,000 00 2,282 89 345,662 13 1864. Dec. 31, By cash paid for hospital Bj - ash paid for publications. By cosh paid chapels, horses, wagons, and other Btock... By cash paid Delegates' ex- Dec. 31, To cash received from Branch $246,577 14 241.M14 NO iio..V.ts -jo 23,406 35 4,820 :;; 18,494 76 To cash received at Wash- To cash received from Ladies' Christian Commission, San Francisco, Cal., proceeds By cash paid stationer} foi I'.. cash received from Ladies' To i i-ii roci Ived from Pacific Christian Commission, for amount collected on Pacific By cash paid freight, dray- age, labor, etc By cash paid salaries of Per- By cash paid salaries of Col- T«i cash received for Chero- kee Indians i Special Fund) To r;isii received from Penn- To cash received from soldiers and Bailors, directly into iln Treasury, in addition to considerable amounts receh ed at Washington To cash received from various Corporations, Local Com- mittees, Ladies' Christian Commissions, collections in churches, und at public meetings, individual bud- By cash paid expenses ol public meetings l!\ cash paid salaries at Cen- 2,036 63 7 iiliu 44 \\\ cash paid printing, sta- n iry, postage, and inci- dental expenses By cash paid expenses Pacific 7,767 67 3,245 56 i'-\ cash paid Cherokee Fn- dian Fund, pair! to order By cash paid Army of Poto- Bj cash paid Nashville Agen- cy, for various armies of By cash paid KnoxviTle 23,869 06 To balance, cash in Treasury. r.\ i nsh pai>l Shenandoah By cash paid Annapolis By cash paid Fortress Mon- l£0fi nJ P\ i osb paid Special 4 gem ) in field Bj i nsh paid drafts w ash- 155,024 90 10,292 65 i'.\ cash paid drafts Louis- By Cash paid drafts St. Louis P\ i ash paid drafts Baltimore By cash balance on hand 5.420 12 1 B65 £834,582 43 .Ian. 2. 85,420 12. Having examined the foregoing account of Joseph Patterson, Treasurer of the U. S. Christian Commission, and the vouchers submitted therewith, and the corresponding Bank Accounts, and having had the various additions made by a careful and competeul clerk, we find the whole to be correct, leaving a balance in the Treasury on the 31st of December, 1864, of £5,420 12. Stephen Colwell. Horatio Gates Jones. THE THIRD YKAK. 219 TABLE II. — CASH RECEIPTS, TRANSFERS. AND BALANCES <>F CENTRAL OFFICE. AND BRANCHES HAVING A LOCAL FIELD TO SUPPORT, FOR 1864. Philadelphia.... Albany Baltimore Boston Brooklyn Buffalo Gtai< ago Cincinnati Cleveland Detroit Harrlsbnrg Hartford Indianapolis Louis> 1 1 It- New \ Hik... Pi oi io Pittsburg l'!.i\ [dem e ..... Rochester St. Louis sr Paul Troj i tii .i Washington Totals I. II. Balance on Cash n o< Vrtd band per last directly Into An Dual Report toe various Deo. .ii. 1863, 1 1 J4::,.M7 41 [,382 4,522 l: 27 2.401 872 12.041 .".1 7 s 06 67S 23 621 .'.1 200 06 16,166 68 772 80 7,567 38 $403,578 6' 10,560 50 4').:.7-2 '.'n 164,952 18 26,450 9 1 47.."V,I 22 18,838 98 63,499 71 8,235 v 26,042 4(i 3,332 6(1 23 U8 -(. 18,133 79 .".Jul 7:. l(i'J747 63 49,373 12 92,706 ("i 11,862 41 7,689 (iT 3 'I 08 4."11 01 7,72;. ;,i 3,959 45 S92,2iu ::t 81,297,766 28 S174.099 01 in. Casb remitted l>v I'.m'l Office i.. ili mi. he snd tgencie 7,502 21 10.292 1)5 IV. V. Cash r, ted Total Cash Re. ( i one cclpts, includ- Branch OOlco Ing Balance I" OtnerS. f ri .iu lsist. 297,456 35 2.7IU 45 1.051 si 1.27'.' 25 $320,066 35 $834,682 43 In. hi ;,,i 5S.457 24 169,474 I" 26,460 '.'7 4-i.T"" 7:: 62,076 21 70.49:1 is 8,235 sj 26.72" 63 ;:.:;::j 60 2:1.4 is 56 18,755 "') 21,888 19 118,914 :'.l .■i", 11" 92 100,272 38 11,862 41 7,".," "7 50,813 26 4."U 01 7.725 51 3,959 (5 155.024 90 £1,884,124 9s TABLE III. — NUMBER AND VALUE OF STORES AND PUBLICATIONS DONATED, AND NUMBER OF PACKAGES DISTRIBUTED, IN 1864. OFFICES. I. Boxes .nd Packages i'( Doatte i Stores ami PubUOa- tlOllS. II. Value of l ated Stores. III. VllllH' III' Mi., 1 ' lii llllnll-. n Number of Boxes .nd ' . Dis- tributed. ::.s2" 67 225 2,105 1,416 4:;s 4,000 4S4 si 395 1.SII5 417 S22 2.4IK! I. 16(1 3,407 25 is Ills $37s,402 13 2."' " 5,2 ii 00 24s. 1. i 16,280 7s 16,715 "" 17" 16,000 00 12,165 13 11.474 93 12, i ii" 24,643 1" 16,672 "" 193,940 "" 1." -( 5. 2 " 2.630 00 2.7s" "(> ls.744 12 2.994 867 698 5.251 469 .-.'."" III. 7 Tsn '." 1,085 in' 1. 100 no 11.17 12,426 42 1,805 3 i"i i .,0 ."sum 20 4,126 32 2.5IKI IHI 250 OI! Si. Paul 22.:120 -1. Ii.", ,"s ,;; $51,930.42 220 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. TABLE IV.— TOTAL OF PUBLICATIONS DISTRIBUTED IN 1864, SHOWING GRANTS OF AMERICAN BIBLE SOCIETY, AND THE QUANTITIES PUR- CHASED AT EACH OFFICE. OFFICES. I. Bibles, Ti-s- r:\iiu-iit -, :, it.l Porttoos <>( Scriptures, (.1 n,-- 0| vi.. Bible ItS l>.'|m.i- tories. 11. Hvinn aad Psalm Books. III. Kli.i|. ■:..'!. Books.Flexl- ble sad Pa pel Corel ■ IV. i'.. .iin.i i.i brarv Book's. V. Maga* sines and PiUll- phleta. VI. Religious News- papers. VII. Pages of Tracts. 339,695 264,018 ■JO0 S5 500 8,940,200 150 26,690 800 3S0 1,810 2,376 227,443 500 678 1,125 49,565 4,491,064 6.509,257 59,000 l. 1 174,820 42,900 237,653 1.1.' 71 600.000 223.100 675.420 i 828 1.174 ■.'.■i.llllll 49,670 Buffalu 1,900 87,000 500 22,000 10,600 250 3,410 4.105 25,260 320 1.440 10,869 1,571,921 1,000 205.830 DO 1.070 17.396 81,478 37,826 "587,124 9,100 61 l 940 268,421 2,500 41,584 12.950 8,976 6,068 266 134572 6,357 42,400 46,286 278 11,336 1,956 4.140 14.227 126 570 1,650 4,215 848 22,370 13,695 176 300,404 St. Paul 87.23B 50,000 1,000 500 aim 307,459 10,000 Rebel soldiers . « t Ainu ■ •I Mississippi, through M' lupins and Shelby Co. 500 .114 489.247 1. 126,676 03 ^7-J 13,681 342 TABLE V.— DELEGATES AND PERMANENT AGENTS, FOB L864. OFFICES. PniLAOELPniA. A]l.:ili\ Baltimore 11. >st. .11 Brooklyn Buffalo. Chicago Cincinnati Cleveland Detroit Harriebnrg .... rial tford Indianapolis... Louisville Now \..k Peorin Pittsburg Rot tiestor St Louis St. Paul Troy i in. i \\ ashington.... Totals Delegates Com missioned. l 6S7 34 64 350 no 75 mi 140 62 55 11 10 4s 1 93 41 175 9 63 9 5 6 59 2,217 Nil ii.i.i in Field. Jaaoarv 1,1865. 43 37 14 15 12 45 1 5 1 3 3 •i'i 12 20 6 1 I 6 2 III. I auraber "I gates' sen Ice. 20.404 7J:l 1.074 13,642 3,635 2,491 4,148 6,880 2,154 1,526 250 27:: 1,586 9,394 1,142 5 '• I . 1,908 246 252 i',200 IV. Kamber of I employ* i in n u.tk. 1 Average nnmber of Delegates in field during the your, 217. Til I'. TIIIKD YEAR. 221 TABLE VI.— GENERAL SUMMARY OF RECEIPTS AND VALUES, FOB 1862, 1863, \M> 1864. PARTlri i IBS Cash Receipts at Central and Branch Offices.. Val f Stores donated to Contra! and Branch Offices Value of Publications donated to Central and Branch Offices' \ nlui .I Si riptui es t A rican Bible Value of Scriptures fr British and Foreign Bible Societj v aluo "i 29,801 Hymn Books, donati d bj \im\ C milt..'. Young M. ,,'s Christian A--" i iii. in. Boston Val t Dele Rites' Bon Value of Railroad, Steamboat, ami other Transportat racilitfee \ due oi Telegraph facilities \ aluo oi Rents dI Warehousi - and I ifflcos, do; Dated to the Commission Totals 51,297 81 766 28 508 87 296 32 in 88 1. 169, in,, 26, 788 06 92 76 4:,o 00 5358 ,289 'J'.' 629 07 071 ■" ,671 79 21 .'.■in ,M 8916,887 66 $40,160 '-".' 1 12 i ■J I..".- [3,1 „. ,, Totall Iit l~,. '. 1863, I M.iv.ir. i:,i m. 1,697,487 -II 81,296 32 127,442 33 1,677 ~:> I 788 i". 263,700 mi [6 i" 89,490 mi 6,750 mi 5231,256 29 84,030,441 80 ■Table III. column III. shows this for 1864 to be £51,980 12 From which Bhonld be deducted value of Grants of American Bible 8 m lety, mi liiil-'il in Credits to various Branches 20,640 10 Showing tin- above to be for 1864 $31,296 32 TABLE VII.— GENERAL SUMMARY. OF WORK A.ND DISTRIB1 TIONS, FOR 1862, 1863, AND 1864. PARTICULARS. Dele ii, a C missioned tte N umber of days "i Delegated ser- Boxes of Stores and Publications distributed.. Bibles, Tee uts, and portions of Scriptures distributed Hymn ami Psalm Books Knapsack Books, En paper ami 6exible covers.. liimiiil I arj Books M . i-ni,l Pamphlets Religious Weekly ami Month!} Newspapers.. i i Tracts .'. "Silent ' '..mi i "etc. i. 186*. 2,217 Ts.siV.i 47,103 569 ,'.i 489,247 4,826.676 1U.S72 346,536 7, 7 18 i |,681 '.i ' 3,691 l,lv, 41.11s 12,648 166,715 371,859 1,254,591 39,718 I ■■,, ,,,j 2,9 II 169 .", 28 , 374 11,593 3,691 102,560 I ; ; 116,761 3 i ,o ::l 66 I 384,781 i" i , 6 830 [■otals f,,r INVJ, ls,;a. „„,l 1864. 3,780 181, •■■" 68,442 1,137,869 991,803 [37,035 601,681 36,611,770 T.siif, CHAPTER V. THE FOURTH YEAR. The year 1865, which was the last in the history of the Christian Commission, was not marked by any special modification of the work either at home or in the army. While the troops were in winter quarters, the various appliances already described were vigorously employed in ministering to the religious welfare and physical comfort of the men. The promise of usefulness which the preceding autumn and early winter seemed to present was more than fulfilled as the season advanced. The chapels, reading-rooms, diet-kitchens, and perma- nent stations, with the multitude of Delegates, agents, and lady managers, engaged in camp and hospital in all the various forms of religious and sanitary service, bore good and abundant fruit. When the spring campaign opened, the Commission prepared itself to take advantage of every opportunity that might offer. Two Delegates came through with General Sherman's army, in its "Grfiat March" from the gulf to the sea, and were met with supplies and helpers, when they reached the Atlantic coast. In the movements that preceded and followed the surrender of Lee's and Johnston's forces, as in the rapid changes among our troops at the West, the Commission used its 222 THE FOURTH YKAR. ZZd experience and its facilities at every point in every prac- ticable way. When the grand armies were brought together at Washington, in May, preliminary to being finally reviewed and mustered out, the Commission promptly employed the period of vest thus afforded, pitched their tents among the soldiers, and carried on their accustomed distributions and daily religions ser- vices. When at last the armies were disbanded, and the regiments set out for their several homes, — their light- ings over and their marchings ended, — the Commission attended them on their way, so far as was practicable, met them at the various rendezvous where they were discharged, and supplied them with such service as they might need, and so sought not to leave them until they bad ceased to be soldiers and had become again simple citizens of the Republic. In addition to other reading- matter distributed to these returning veterans, two small hooks were especially prepared for them, — one by Rev. Dr. E. X. Kirk, entitled ••Mustered Out," published by the Boston Tract Society, and the other issued by the Christian Commission in its own name, entitled " Part- ing Words," — written by (lias. E. Lex, Esq., of Phila- delphia. These were circulated by thousands, and were designed as little memorials and keepsakes. The troops were not all disbanded a'l once. Large detachments were sent into the Southwest and North- west. The Delegates of the Commission accompanied these, and the good work was carried on in Texas and Kansas. The last field station of t lit* Commission was iii Kansas, at Fort Leavenworth, and was closed in June, 1866. The fall of Petersburg and of Richmond, in the first 224 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. days of April, 1865, was the occasion of great excite- ment and thanksgiving throughout the North. This enthusiastic feeling at once took the form of remembrance of the soldier's wants and provision for them. It was thought that there would be severe fighting and much suffering, and it was the general purpose to be prepared for the worst. Numerous meetings were held, especially in the larger cities, at which liberal contributions were made for the Commission's treasury. Multitudes of in- dividual and congregational offerings were also sent in. Although these resources were not needed for the emer- gency apprehended, as the fall of the rebel capital was followed by the bloodless surrender of the rebel armies, yet the Commission was thereby enabled to continue and complete its labors in a manner that in all proba- bility would not have been otherwise possible. Funds for the more quiet and obscure work in Texas and on the Plains could not have been so readily obtained, if the appeal had been for that work alone, after the excite- ment and interest of the war had largely passed away. The death of President Lincoln, April 15, was for the Commission, as for the American people at large, a per- sonal bereavement. It was suitably recognized and commemorated by the various Branch Commissions. At the Central Office there was a meeting of the Executive Committee on the day of the sad event. In connection with appropriate religious exercises the following minute was passed, an engrossed copy of which was sent to .Mis. Lincoln: — Whereas, God, in his inscrutable providence, has allowed our Chief Magistrate the President, Abraham; Lincoln, to be removed by the hand of violence, therefore THE FOURTH YEAR. 221 Resolved, That this deplorable event which, in the midst of heart- felt rejoicings, lias thrown the nation into the deepest mourning, im- pels us t'> look to (Jin! for wisdom and consolation. We arc in the hands of the same Almighty Deliverer who lias just rescued the country from the perils and desolations of a terrible rebel war. He alone who sees the end from the beginning is sufficient to guide us now. Resolved, That as citizens we mourn the loss of a wise and able ruler, the kind, tender, and merciful magistrate, who by his pure and patriotic administration of the government has so won the affections of his countrymen ; and, as the Executive Committee of the United States Christian Commission, we lament hint who, when the Commis- sion was first organized, at once gave us his official sanction ami kind word- of encouragement, and who hail ever since been a fast friend, giving not only all proper governmental facilities but also generous private contributions ami expressions of personal confidence and in- terest. We remember, with gratitude to God, that the recent and la-t official interview the Commission had with President Lincoln, in the East Room of the Executive Mansion, was, with his most cordial approval, closed with prayer to Cod, in whose hands he then said he felt himself to b ■ but an instrument, .to execute plans whose full pur- port and results he did not understand. /,'• olved, That we give to the children and widow of the deceased our deepest sympathy and prayers, that the blessed Comforter may abide with them in this time of desolation. Resolved, That the Executive Committee attend the funeral ser- vices. ( >n tin' 25th of April a Convention of the Western Branches of the Commission assembled in Chicago, simi- lar in character and purpose to the meeting held in In- dianapolis -ix months before. The session was pleasant and profitable, but without special influence upon the work of the Commission, as thai was necessarily con- trolled by the termination of the war. A- the necessity for the peculiar work of the ( lommis- sion diminished, it was suggested in several quarters that 29 226 AXXA1.S OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. they might advantageously turn their attention to new fields, which were opening to the benevolence and Chris- tian activity of the nation. It was said that the Com- mission was well organized, had the confidence of the government and the people, possessed unusual facilities for reaching all parts of the nation, and could hence accomplish more in the way of educational and evangel- izing movements than newer or less comprehensive asso- ciations. These suggestions were carefully considered by the Executive Committee, but it was deemed inexpe- dient to adopt them. The Committee thought that as the Commission was organized for a specific purpose, the organization should cease as soon as its purpose had been accomplished. They felt that a prompt relinquishment of their trust, with a full report of the manner in which it had been discharged, was due alike to themselves and the public. Accordingly, at their meeting held on May IS, the Executive Committee, after an extended review of all the questions and interests involved, adopted the following minute by a unanimous vote: — Whereas, The United States Christian Commission was formed early in the war for a special purpose, "To promote the spiritual and temporal welfare of the soldiers in the army and the sailors and marines in the navy," and Whereas, That work, which tied has so abundantly blessed, is nearly done : therefore Resolved, That it is the intention of the United States Christian Commission to hold itself strictly to its original purpose, and to dis- continue its operations as soon as the necessities shall cease which required its organization. At the same meeting the following resolutions were also unanimously adopted: — T1IK FOURTH TEAR. 227 /,'. toked, That we will make no further efforts to organize Ladies' ( Ihristian Commissions. Resolved, That the services of all paid Collecting Agents employed by this Committee be terminated on the first day of June next. Resolved, That the above action of the Executive Committee be communicated to the Branch Commissions, and that they be advised to dispense with all paid Collecting Agents. Everything was now directed inward the closing up of the stations and offices of the Commission, as rapidly as the welfare of the soldiers would permit. The mili- tary posts were gradually abandoned by the troops, and the hospitals were gradually emptied of their patients, and the work of the Commission was curtailed in similar measure. During the summer and early autumn must of the permanent A.gents and officers resigned. The Branch Commissions were left to close up their local matters according to their judgment, as determined by the general principles already announced. Appropria- tions were made from the Central treasury to meet special necessities in various parts of the field. The Executive Committee appointed the Home Secretary "to prepare a Memorial or History of the Christian Commission," and the Field Secretary "to prepare a volume of Incidents, — such as may be fegarded by him as fully authentic and most valuable of those which have occurred during the work of the Commission." In September the Commission was furnished, by the agents in charge of the Individual Relief Department, with a list of seven thousand names of Federal soldiers buried from Libby, Belle Isle, and Danville prisons, al City Point and in the field around Petersburg and Richmond, and in the rebel prison at Millin, Georgia. 228 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. This list was printed in pamphlet form, widely adver- tised, and forwarded to the large number of persons who applied for it. The Executive Committee held a meeting on the first of December, again to examine the condition of affairs. It then appeared that there was one permanent Dele- gate among the soldiers in Virginia, with headquarters at Richmond; that fourteen Agents and Permanent Delegates were employed in Texas, with Xew Orleans as base of supplies, engaged in teaching and preaching among the colored troops, with the ordinary field work and hospital relief, — the Western Sanitary Commission and the Illinois State Sanitary Commission having fur- nished hospital stores to the amount of $15,000 or $20,000; that at Fort Leavenworth and on the Plains there were six agents and Delegates; that in Texas and on the Plains the troops numbered about sixty-five thou- sand, and that the St. Louis Branch had immediate charge of the work in both fields. Upon a careful con- sideration of the condition of the Commission's treasury and work, the following resolutions were passed: — Resolved, 1. That the United States Christian Commission termi- nate its labors and close its offices, January 1, 18t>(3, and that a final report be made to the public as sunn as practicable there- after. 2. That the Branch Commissions be requested to shape their affairs, and make their reports to the Central Office, in accordance with the foregoing resolution. .'>. That this action of the Executive Committee be published, and al-n be communicated to the several Branches. 4. That the balances now remaining in the treasuries of the several Branch Commissions be applied by them according to their judg- ment and discretion, always keeping in view the special object for THE FQUBTH YEAR. 229 which the funds were given. Where do such application is prac- ticable, they are requested to send their balances to the Central ( (ffice. The Executive Committee again met, January 11, 1866. Arrangements were made for holding a final Anniversary of the Commission, in Washington, on Sahhath evening, February 11. Messrs. Colwell, IV- mond, and Jones were appointed a Committee to super- intend the publication of the books already ordered. The Treasurer's Account and the Annual Report were passed upon. Finally the following minute was adopted, as terminating the official existence of the Executive ( Jommittee and the Commission : — Whereas, The work of the Christian Commission is ended, and there are >till funds in I lie possession of the Tr< asurer, and mure funds are expected from the profits of the sale of the " History" and " Book of Incidents," therefore Voted, That George EL Stuart, Joseph Patterson, Stephen Colwell, John P. Crozer, 1 and Matthew Simpson, be and hereby are appointed Trustees, to receive and hold the funds now in the Treasury, and all thai may hereafter be given to the Commission, or may accrue to the Commission from the sale of said 1 ks or otherwise, upon the following trusts and conditions, to wit : To pay all debts due or that may become due from the Commission, ami all expenses thai may arise in closing up the affairs oi the Commission, including those of its closing meeting, ami all expenses of preparing and publishing said History and Book of Incidents; and to apply ami appropriate all the remainder of such funds to the spiritual ami temporal benefit of those who are, have been, or may he soldiers and sailors in the service of the United States, in such ways as they >hall deem best. A majority of said Trustees shall be competent to 1 Ur. Crozer died on the I lth da} of March, 1866; whereupon, on the 13th day of i he same month, Horatio 1 1 \ i is Jones was elected to till the vacancy, and was al?<> chpsen Secretary of the Board. 230 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. transact any and all business relating to said Trust, and if any vacancy or vacancies shall occur in the number of the said Trustees the remainder shall fill such vacancy or vacancies. Voted, That the Treasurer pay over to the said Trustees all the funds remaining in his hands at the time his accounts shall be fully audited, and take their receipt therefor. The final meeting of the Executive Committee was held at Washington, in the E Street Baptist Church, Saturday, February 10, 1866, at 9? o'clock. Various business matters were prepared for presentation to the Commission at large, which had been called to convene at the same place at 10 o'clock. The following resolu- tion of thanks was voted to the Chairman: — The Executive Committee feel it a duty and a pleasure to place on record their high appreciation of the able and faithful service of their chairman, Geo. H. Stuart. His liberality in furnishing office and store room, and at times the services of his clerks, was of great value, especially in the early days of the Commission. His business talent and skill enabled us to purchase cheaply and well, and to keep all the accounts of our extensive and diversified operations in the most thorough manner. His unbounded enthusiasm was com- municated not only to us but to all who came near him, and enlisted the sympathies and aid of thousands in our work, while his personal intercourse with us, in all our long and trying deliberations, has been delightful. As we separate, our prayers go up to our Father in heaven that his days may be many, useful, and happy. After a few words of acknowledgment by the Chair- man, the Committee dissolved, — closing its record with this minute: — Before finally separating, the Executive Committee of the United States Christian Commission wish to put on record an expression of their gratitude to God, for his constant watch-care and blessing, during the entire period of their organization. No one of their THE FOURTH YEAR. 2ol number has been removed by death. There has been complete har- mony in their counsels, and the heartiest co-operation in their action. With scarcely an exception every vote has been unanimous, and this notwithstanding the frequency of their meetings and the magnitude of the interests confided to them. Their measures have had the i fidence of the Christian public and of the national authorities, and have been blessed with most gratifying results in the army and navy. All this preservation^ concord, favor, and efficiency the Executive Committee wish now, with gratitude for having been entrusted with such service and for the divine help accorded them, to ascribe to Him from whom has come power, wisdom, and grace, ami to whom he praise and glory forever, through Jesus Christ out- Lord. Amen. The Commission tit large met, as above indicated, at ten o'clock. An adjourned session was also held in the cveiiing. The Commission and its various Branches were well represented. The action of the Executive Committee was reviewed and confirmed. The President of the United States, the several heads of Departments, and General Grant, were waited upon during the day. In the evening the Commission heard the Annual Re- port, adopted the same, and thereupon finally adjourned, — ordering their record to be closed with the following preamble and resolutions: — WHEREAS, The causes which brought into existence, and have continued for four years, the labors of the United States Christian Commission, have now happily ceased, therefore Resolved, That our most sincere thanks are due to Almighty God for the termination of the rebellion, and for thus opening the whole country to die influences of education and religion. /,' wived, That we also express our devout gratitude to God for his blessing upon the oflicers and Delegates of this Commission, in their efforts to relieve the sufferings of our soldiers and seamen, and to impart to them, and especially to the sick and dying, thai instruc- tion and consolation in the religion of Jesus which is beyond price. 232 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. With these closing official minutes of the Commission, may be associated their "Parting Words" to those through whose constant and efficient co-operation they had been enabled to carry forward to completion their important work : — Our joy in being permitted, by the return of peace to the land and the soldiers to their homes, to cease the labors of the Commission, is shaded with regret. Very pleasant, indeed, have been our associa- tions, during these years, with those who have toiled for the welfare of the soldier and sailor. We cannot allow them to close without thanksgiving to God for this goodly fellowship. We do not forget that he who was at once the pride and hope of the nation, an early and devoted friend of the Commission, a most intimate participator at our meeting one year ago, has not been per- mitted to see the end with us. President Lincoln's appreciation of the Christian Commission was only another expression of his more than paternal love for his soldiers. To have found a place in such a heart, and the approval of such a mind, we deem a special cause for thanksgiving. To the Secretary of War, the Secretary of the Navy, the heads of the different Departments of the army in Washington, and to the Lieutenant-General and all his commanders in the field, we are under peculiar obligations. They have not only allowed and approved, but have enabled us thus to minister to the suffering. To the Army Committees in the different Branches of the Commis- sion, merchants and professional men, who have left their ordinary business to give time and strength and anxious thought for the wel- fare of the soldier, through the Christian Commission, we have been drawn with increasing admiration and love. Knowing that they have their reward, we desire only to assure them that, in our parting, "the tie that binds" is not broken. Memory shall keep it ready for all united Christian work in times of peace, till at length, by God's grace, it holds us again, united in the service above. To the pastors of churches, the children in the Sunday-schools, and to the thousands and millions all over our land who have joined hands with us in these ministrations for Christ, no words of ours can THE FOURTH YEAR. 233 adequately set forth our gratitude in this farewell hour. Upon them we have leaned, and not been disappointed. They have refused oo appeals in behalf of the national defenders. Their trust in the Com- mission, and their generous enthusiasm, growing and swelling to the last, have hem our stay and strength. To the loval women who, in Ladies' Christian Commissions, in leagues and aid societies, have fed the flame of piety and patriotism in our homes, and in weary hours, for successive years, with busy fingers and devices of love, have kept the hands of our agents and Delegates in the field so full of comforts for suffering patriots, it is not enough to say wc are profoundly grateful. To them, under < rod, the Commission owes its success. We only anticipate the verdict of the future, when we say that, thus far in human history, such work is exclusively theirs, — a work that could have been wrought only by praying wive- and mothers and sisters in behalf of imperilled kindred and country. Finally, to God, the Giver and Guide of all. we join with each fellow-laborer of the Christian Commission, in thanksgiving and ] uaise. The work is His. To Him be the glory. We gave the Commission the name of the Master. We sent it forth to speak His words and imitate His deeds. Christ, the Lord, has accepted and honored it: and now, wherever mention shall be made of the work it has accomplished, we desire only that the quick, grateful, adoring response shall he, " See what the Lord hath wrought !" The fourth and lust Anniversary of the Christian Com- mission was held on Sabbath evening, February 11, 1866, in the I hill of the House of Representatives, Washing- ton, according to previous arrangements. It was no less numerously attended than the similar meetings of pre- ceding years, and it was the equal of those in character and interest. In order to show more clearly the nature of the Commission's anniversaries and public meetings, as they were held in the larger cities of the North from year to year, a full report of this last gathering is here preserved. This report was made for the Commission 30 234 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. by one of the editors of The Sunday-School Times, Mr. I. Newton Baker, to whom the Commission was indebted for much valuable service, and was first published in The Times of February 24, 1866. FOURTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE UNITED STATES CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. The ever memorable fourth and closing anniversary of the Christian Com- mission was held in the Hall of the House of Representatives, Washington, D. C, on Sabbath evening, February 11, 1866. A great crowd filled the Hall, overflowing the lobbies outside, and turning thousands away in a disappointed stream. The assembly was composed of the distinguished and honored of the land, representing perhaps more fully and truly the powers which wield our great nation than any similar assembly ever convened in our country's history. The Hall was draped in memory of the beloved dead, who by his presence graced the last anniversary of the Commission, and by his tearful sympathy has made that occasion ever fragrant in the history and record of the institu- tion. The Hon. .Schuyler Colfax, Speaker of the House, presided. Precisely at seven o'clock the exercises began, by the singing of the noble hymn of praise, Jesus shall reign where'er the sun Does his successive journeys run, His kingdom stretch from shore to shore, Till moons shall wax and wane no more, the audience rising and joining in the praise, led by Philip Phillips, of Cin- cinnati. Prayer was then offered by the Rev. Dr. Boynton, Chaplain of the House, and the Scriptures were read, in the 46th Psalm, by the Rev. Dr. Taylor, Secretary of the American Bible Society. SPEECH OF SPEAKER COLFAX. On taking the chair, Speaker Colfax said : — Ladies and Gentlemen: The fearful trial to which our Republic was subjected, for the preservation of its existence, is over. The loved and lost, who died that the nation might live, sleep in their bloody shrouds in village churchyards, on cannon-furrowed battle- fields, near prison-camps, alas ! too, in unmarked graves, but all enshrined with the sainted dead of the Revolution in millions of hearts for evermore. The yet vacant chair at many a lonely hearth- stone tells the silent story of sacrifice, such as the world had never THE FOURTH YEAR. 265 rivalled before. But the gates of our temple of Janus are closed; Fr.om the battle line which swept across our country thousands of miles, from Gettysburg to the boundary of the Mexican Republic, the bannered hosts have returned to their waiting homes, volunteers transformed by the shock of arms into veterans, and hailed as the saviors of the Union. The sword is exchanged for the plough- share, and the great rebellion, organized on broken oaths, and cul- minating in the murder of the nation's chief, with the great uprising which so patriotically confronted it, and the great victory which crushed it, has passed into history, which Cicero tells us is " the evidence of ages, the light of memory, and the school of life." It is under these auspicious circumstances that this organization, inspired from that Throne whence flow all good impulses, which, like a handmaiden of mercy, went forth into our armies to succor ami to save, returns to-night to this Representative Hall, to render a final account of its stewardship. Of its thousands of active and willing co-laborers, and its millions of expenditures, you will hear from abler tongues than mine. From all quarters of the nation, In lunch altars and family circles, from merchants and manu- facturers, from mechanics and miners, from the tillers of the earth and the sailors on the sea, from crowded cities and humble cabins, from the munificent donations of the wealthy to the widow's mite, came tin' material aid which poured its mighty volume into the colU'i\> of the Christian Commission. And its agents, thus endowed with the unstinted gifts of patriotic benevolence, ami clad in the armor of a nation's sympathy, went forth to win the glorious vic- tories they so gloriously achieved, — victories over suffering, victories over disease, victories over death itself, from whose icy grasp they rescued so many thousands by their more than Samaritan ministra- tions. To the battlefield they came, to snatch our brave defenders from under the guns of the enemy, where they had fallen. To the hospital they came, to minister in place of the beloved wife and mother, so far away, and to pour oil, if possible, into the expiring lamp of Life. To the death-bed of the departing hero they came, to smooth his pathway to the tomb, ami to point him to that better land wheie he should live a life that would never die. Resting from their labors of love, now that the victorious ensign of the Republic waves over the entire land, and our Constitution has 23G ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. become the New Testament of our ■freedom, they rejoice with all who rejoice over a country saved for its brilliant destiny hereafter, in that noble sentiment, deeper, profounder in its significance to-day than when first uttered in this Capitol, " Liberty and Union, now ami forever, one and inseparable." Mr. Geo. II. Stuart, Chairman of the Commission, presented a Summary Statement of its operations from the beginning, and Rev. E. P. Smith. Field Secretary, read an abstract of its last Annual Report. Mr. Stuart read a number of letters from various civil and military officers. These, with others that were afterwards received, are here appended: — FROM SECRETARY STANTON. (A TELEQB IW, I Washington-, Feb. 1. 1866. Geo. H. Stuart, Esq., Chairman U.S. C. C, Philadelphia: — With many thanks to you and the Association of which you are the presiding officer, for the kind invitation contained in your note of yesterday, I regret my inability to make an address upon the interesting occasion. It is, however, a pleasant official and personal duty to acknowledge, on your anniversary, the great services to the country and to humanity rendered by the Christian Commission during the period of its labors. Edwin M. Stanton. FROM SECRETARY SEWARD. Department of State, Washihoton, February 12, lsiai. Dear Sir: The pressure of official cares has prevented an earlier acknowledgment of the letter which you addressed to me on the 27th of January last. The condition of my health deprived me. of the pleasure of accepting your invitation to attend, last evening, the Anniversary of the United States Christian Commission. I pray you to accept now my acknowledgment of the great and effective labors of that Commission. A just account of those labors will constitute, I am sure, one of the most interesting and pleasing episodes in the history of the great struggle which brought the Com- mission into being. I am, dear sir, respectfully and sincerely. Your obedient servant, William H. Seward. Geo. H. Stuart, Esq., Chairman U. S. 0. C, Philadelphia. THE FOURTH Yl'.AK. 237 FROM CHIEF-JUSTICE CHASE. Washington, D. C, January 30 1866. My Dear Sir: Your letter, asking my judgment of the work of the Christian Commission during the recent civil war, lias been received. It was not my privilege to participate directly in that work, nor to see niueli nf its immediate effects in the camps, or mi the battle-fields, or in the hospitals. What 1 know of it was chiefly from testimony; lint that testimony was ample and reliable. And 1 feel myself fully warranted in saving, that no such humane ministration of beneficence and loving-kindness was ever witnessed before in any age or country. Except in a Christian land no such ministration would he possible. Perhaps it is not too much to say that it would not, in this age, he possible in any Christian land except our own. The responsibility which our institutions impose on each citizen for the safety of the Republic, and the concern in every operation of Government which the personal interest of each citizen necessarily creates, lilled the ranks of our armies with hundreds of thousands of our best young men. The warm affections of those they left at home; the obligations of Christian duty which pressed upon the conscience of almost all men and women in our land, and the spirit of self-denying, fraternal love which a free Christianity called into action throughout our country, naturally found expression and manifestation in the Christian Com- mission. In what other land do such influences act so powerfully ? In what other land have they so free a course? The work of the Commission for the war is ended. Its kindly ministrations to the soldiers of the Union, not limited indeed to them, but freely extended to sick or wounded or imprisoned soldiers, without regard to uniform or service, are no longer required in camp, or field, or hospital. Bui they will never lie forgotten. No history of the American civil war, — let US pray God it may lie tiie last, — will ever lie written without affectionate ami admiring mention of the Christian Commis- sion. Nor alone in histories of the earth will its record he preserved. Its work reached beyond time, and its " record is on high." Yours, very truly, S. P. Cham Geo. 11. Stuart, Esq., Philadelphia. 238 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. FEOM GENERAL GRANT. Headquarters Armies of the United States,"! Washington, D. C, January 12, 1866. J Geo. H. Stuart, Esq., Chairman U. S. C. C: — ■ Dear Sir: Your letter of the Kith instant, announcing that the United States Christian Commission is on the eve of closing its work, is received. I hope the same labor will never be imposed on any body of citizens again in this country as the Christian Commission have gone through in the last four years. It affords me pleasure to bear evidence to the services rendered, and the manner in which they have been rendered. By the agency of the Commission much suffer- ing has been saved, on almost every battle-field and in every hospital during the late rebellion. No doubt thousands of persons now living attribute their recovery, in great part, to volunteer agencies sent to the field and hospital by the free contributions of our loyal citizens. The United States Sanitary Commission and the United States Chris- tian Commission have been the principal agencies in collecting and distributing their contributions. To them the army feel the same gratitude that the loyal public feel for the services rendered by the army. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, U. S. Grant, Lieutenant- General. Headquarters Military Division of tiik Mississippi, ^ St. Loris. January 19, I v ' ; ' ; . PROM GENERAL SHERMAN. } Geo. H. Stuart, Esq., Chairman U. 8. C. ('., Philada.: — Dear Sir: I have your letter of January 15, asking an expression of my opinion of the operations of your Commission during the war. That the people of the United States should have voluntarily con- tributed six millions of dollars for the moral welfare of the soldiers employed, in addition to other and vast charitable contributions, 18 one of the wonders of the world. That the agents for the application of this charity did manifest a zeal and energy worthy the object. I myself am a willing witness; and I would be understood as heartily endorsing, without reserve, their efforts, when applied to the great hospitals and rendezvous in the rear of our great armies At times Tin: FOUETH FEAR. 239 I may have displayed an impatience when the agents manifested an excess of zeal, in pushing forward their persons and stores when we had mi means to make use el' i heir charities. But they could hardly be expected to measure the importance of other interests, ami 1 have always given them credit for good and pure motives. Now that the great end is attained, and in our quiet rooms and offices we can leek back on the past with composure, 1 am not only willing, but pleased with the opportunity, to express my belief that your charity was noble in its conception, and applied with as mueh zeal, kindness, and discretion as the times permitted. I am, with great respect, your obedient servant, W. T. Sherman, Major- General FROM GENERAL MEADE. Headquarters Military Division op the Atlantic, 1 Philadelphia, Pa., January 17, 18.66. I Geo. H. Sttjakt, Esq., Chairman U. S. C. C: — Dear Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication ofthel5th instant, announcing that the Tinted States Christian Commission has finished its work for the army and navy. I sincerely congratulate the Commission ., Philadelphia, Pa. FROM MAJOR-GENERAL PATRICK. ci \i:\ v. N. V.. March 21. 1866. Mi/ dear Friend: Your letter of the 17th is at hand, asking me for " an expression of my views as to the manner in which the Chris- tian Commission has discharged its trust." "Why, my dear friend, you might about as well ask me to give an opinion of myself. The fact that I have been so intimately associated with the Execu- tive Board, and acted as General Counsel for the Officers and Agents of the Commission in the Field, must of necessity so influence my opinions as to disqualify me for sitting in judgment upon its manage- ment and operations. Certainly no one in the Armies operating in Virginia has had equal opportunities with myself for knowing the work of tic Commission, and if, with this knowledge, I have given it my earnest and hearty support at all times and under all circumstances, no further expression of mine can add weight to former utterances. Organized at first to meet a single want, it continued to expand until it seemed to meet every want that could arise in a civil war of such vast proportions, — carrying life, light, and blessing to multitudes, and receiving back to itself the rich blessing of those who were ready to perish, — a blessing that has descended like the dew of heaven upon it> members and Delegates, by training them for active usefulness in civil life, as lay missionaries, and by giving to its ministerial laborers that knowledge of life and men and things, as they are, that no other school on earth could give them. Let it be our prayer, that the good seed it has so freely sown by all waters may continue to spring up and bear fruit abundantly, to the glory of Him whose light failed us never, even in the days of our deepest darkness. Sincerely and fraternally yours, M. R. Patrick. Geo. H. Stuart, Esq., Chairman U. S. C. C, Phlhala. 31 242 ANXALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. FROM MAJOR-GENERAL HANCOCK. Headquarters Middle Militari Division, February 10, L868. Geo. II. Stuart, Esq., Chairman U. S. C. C, Philada., /'<'..- — Dnir Sir: Since it has been formally announced that the labors nl' the United Stales Christian Commission for the army and navy have ended, 1 deem it a titling occasion to express to you my belief that the important objects for which that organization was inau- gurated have been faithfully accomplished, so far as it could he expected they could be practically performed. 1 think the best test of the success of the Commission can be found in the sentiments of the soldiers of the war, and so far as my knowledge extends the benefits derived by them from this source were freely admitted and strongly felt. The attention of the Commission to those wants of the soldier in the field, which could not have been otherwise s.i well supplied, causes a grateful feeling in return, as he felt that they replaced as far as might be those kind attentions and services which were lest to him when hi' left his heme for the field. 1 am sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Winfield S. Hancock, Maj.-Gen. U.S. Vols. FROM MAJOB GENERAL THOMAS. Hi 11.1)1 irters Military Divisioh of the Ti knessee, 1 N 1M1Y11.I.E. Tens., January 21, tsiHi. ) Mr. Geo. II. Stuart, Chairman V. S. C. C, Philada.: — Sir: I have the boner to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated January 15, L866, showing that the United States Christian Commission had finished its work, and that it has expended six millions of dollars ($6,000,000), contributed by the good people of the land in its labor of love and charity, for the benefit of our soldiers and sailors, who have providentially been the means of saving ami perpetuating our form of Government; also delicately acknowledging your appreciation of duties performed at these head- quarters in behalf of the United States Christian Commission. I congratulate von that, being no longer neee.-sary, your Christian, faithful, and laborious duties are ended. I consider that the organi- zation and action of the United States Christian Commission, as developed in its results, have saved many lives and furnished com- THE FOtTBTH YI'.AI!. 2 l"> fori to many a soldier, who without its aid must have suffered. I also desire to say thai the works of the Christian Commission furnish an excellent record, and that its assistance has been a useful agency in helping to end the rebellion, and again bring about in this country an exemplification of the true Christian principle of " peace <>n earth and good will toward men." 1 am, very respect fully, your obedient servant, Geo. II. Thomas, Maj.-Gen. U. 'V .1-, Commanding. FROM M i.JOB GENERAL BURNSIDE Pboi idexce, March 20, I 368. Geo. H. Sttjartj Esq., Chairman U. S. C. C: — Dear Sir: I lieu t<> thank you and the noble Commission of which you have been at the head, for your efficient and useful labors in the field during the late rebellion. It has been my happiness t<> «it- ness many of these labors, and 1 can truly say that the country owes you ami your associates an everlasting debt of gratitude, for your good works which have been SO bountifully bestowed upon her soldiers in the field. Your expression of thanks for my co-operation and sympathy is most gratifying to me. I esteem it a high honor to have been in any way connected with the valuable work of your Commission. Truly your friend, A. E. Bornside. FROM MAJOR-GENERAL BUTLER. KlRKWOOD 1 1." -i . i W lshinoton, |i. i'., Jan. 26, I Dear Sir: I envy you and your associates of the Christian Com- mission the grateful sense of a noble work well done, with which, in closing its labors, you can review the doings of the Christian ('"in mis-ion. Perhaps the appreciation may be more vivid in my par- ticular case, because 1 saw day by day the good your Christian charity dispensed in hospitals, in camps, and even on the battle-field. Wants were supplied, distresses mitigated, comforts brought to the sick, and Wounded, and dying. But this physical relief was the least. of the results of the work of the Commission. The fact, that Chris- tian men and women were, with active benevolence, al home, busy in In hall' of the soldier, gave a moral support, connected with the spiritual consolation afforded by the agents in the field, which was 244 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. of the utmost value. Indeed, I think it largely due to the connec- tions of the soldier with his home and citizenship, thus kept up by yours and kindred associations, that the country is indebted for the sublime but before unwitnessed spectacle, of an army of more than a million of veteran soldiers, on the approach of peace, changing at once without shock into a like number of quiet, orderly, valuable citizens. It is not the least of the pleasant memories I have of service in the field that I was able to assist your generous labors, for the temporal and spiritual welfare of the Army of the James. That my endea- vors obtained the approbation of the noble men and women of the Commission, is to me the highest honor. Truly your friend and servant, Benj. F. Butler. Geo. H. Stuart, Esq., Chairman U. S. C. C, Philada., Pa. FROM MAJOR-GENERAL ORD. Headquarters Department up the Ohio, 1 Detroit, Michigan, Jan. 22, 1SC6. J Geo. H. Stuart, Esq., Chairman C. C, Philada., Pa.: — Dear Sir: I have just received your letter of January 15, asking for such testimony as I can give as to the results achieved by the Christian Commission, within the Army of the James, and the De- partment of Virginia and North Carolina, while under my command. I can with pleasure state that the troops in that army are indebted to the untiring energy of the agents of your Commission, both in the Twenty-fourth and Twenty-fifth Corps, during their field service, and while lying in the trenches before Richmond, for both moral and physical aid and comfort, which only those present can appreciate at its true value ; churches and school-houses, or tents, were erected, each Division was supplied with teachers and preachers, who, unde- terred by hardship or exposure, unappalled by danger, were con- tinually with the men in front, and, when sickness and death threat- ened them, were at their sides, with such consolation as only a Christian friend can give at that time. The good thus done, and the physical aid and comforts administered, can never be estimated. The prayers and blessings of sick and dying soldiers, the thanks of the no longer ignorant, will linger in the memory of your agents, and be THE FOURTH YEAR. 245 repeated to their children, as, next to the approbation of God, the highest reward a g 1 man can receive. And after the soldier's work was done, and the impoverished cities of the South came into tlic |Kisscs>i(in id' < 1 1 1 1- armies, the agents of v ■ (' nission were among the first there to feed the crowd of hungry, almost starving, poor, who, while the means lasted, were never turned away empty- handed from their doors. What aid I could give the modest, unassuming Christian gentle- men who were with the troops] commanded, as Christian Commis- sioners, was always given with pleasure. I knew they would give a good account of their stewardship. I am, sir, yours truly, E. O. C. Oed, Major-Gt nt ml < 'ommanding. FROM SURGEON-GENERAL BARNES. War Department, Surgeon General's Office, ) u lshing i"v D. i !., January 15, 1866. i Geo. S.Stuart, Esq., Chairman U.S. C. C: — Sir: 1 congratulate you that the work nt' your Association is drawing to a close, with such flattering evidence of the energy and success with which its objects have been accomplished. It is not only within my own observation, hut is also tie testimony of medical officers generally, that the United States Christian Com- mission has always co-operated zealously and efficiently with the proper authorities, complying cheerfully with the conditions upon which the fullest aid of this Department has always been extended toit. in thehunianeefiort to convey relief and comfort to our soldiers both in the field and in hospital. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. K. Barnes, Surgeon- General. FROM QUARTERMASTER-GENERAI MEIGS. Ql ( i:|'i:km ISTEH ' rENER u ,'S ' Trie I:, ) Washington, D. C., January 16, 1866. / Geo. H. Stuart, Esn., Chairman I'. S. C. G, Phila., Pa.: — Dear Sir: I have received your letter of the 15th instant, in which, on the part of the Christian Commission, vmi acknowledge the cordial aid received by the Commission from the officers of the Quartermaster's Department, under my orders and instructions 24G ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Please accept my thanks for the graceful and gratifying terras in which this co-operation and assistance, on the part of the Quarter- master's Department, have been acknowledged. I have had occa- sion to notice the operations of the Commission during my occasional visits to the front, and 1 gladly bear testimony to the good which I personally saw them doing. At Chattanooga, during the dreary days of want and suffering following the battle of Chickamauga, the agents of the Christian Commission moved among the sick and wounded, carrying spiritual consolation to the bed-sides of the suffer- ing and dying. These agents conducted religious services in the churches of Chattanooga, well attended by the soldiers, until the return of our wounded sent in by the rebels under flag-of-truce made it necessary to occupy every church building as a hospital. I my- self gladly attended these services, and recognized in the agents of the Commission a pure and patriotic religious zeal. At Belle Plain, when through that place were passing the tens of thousands of wounded removed from the battlefields of the "Wilderness and Spott- svlvania, and in the crowded hospitals and churches of Fredericks- burg, filled with those too much injured to be removed, I again met the agents of the Christian Commission, and found them perform- ing those services, which in a loyal district would be offered to the sick and wounded by sympathizing residents. While not familiar with the general operations of the Commission, I can speak of the e examples from personal knowledge, and I have heard none but favorable reports of their conduct wherever they have penetrated. Congratulating you upon the good record of the Commission, and rejoicing that the final victory of truth and freedom has relieved its members of their labors, I am, very respectfully and truly, Your obedient servant, M. C. Meigs, Quartermaster-General, Brevet Major-General U. S. A. FROM VICE-ADMIRAL FARRAGUT. 43 East Thirty-Sixth Street. New York, January IS, 1866. Dear Sir : I feel satisfied that no one would bear higher testimony in behalf of the Christian Commission than myself. Although, from our peculiar organization and the smallness of our numbers, we were less dependent in the navy than in the army upon its bounties, still THE FOURTH YEAR. 247 we always had the assurance from its benevolent agents that we could have everything we desired, bui our knowledge of the fad that our brethren of the army were liable to a greater accumulation of suffering and privations, owing to the difficulties of transportation, etc., made us always content that they should be recipients of the greatest amount of your benevolence, and it is certain that wherever I went I always heard the Christian Commission, its generous phi- lanthropy and patriotic devotion, most warmly extolled. My per- sonal admiration of the generosity and sacrifices made by many of your noble Society is unbounded, and I have no doubt it will receive the blessingsof God and of the whole untry. Please convey to your associates in the Commission these my sen- timents of high appreciation, and accept yourself my sincere esteem. Very respectfully, D. G. Fakkagut, Vice-Admiral. Geo. H. Stuaet, Esq., Chairman U.S. C. G. SPEECH OF CHARLES DEMOND. Mr. Colfax now introduced Charles De id, Esq., of Huston, who addressed tin- audience as follows : — I have been asked to speak, as one of the original members of the Christian Commission and of its Executive Committee. It was my good fortune to draw the resolutions which were adopted in the Con- vention that formed the Christian Commission, held in New York, November 14, 1861 ; and I have had the- privilege of aiding in its management ever since. Its object, as stated in those resolutions, \\a> to promote the spiritual and temporal welfare of the soldiers and sailors. < hir sons and brothers had left the comforts, privileges, and safeguards of home, to meet in our behalf the privations, the temp- tations, and the perils of war. Wo desired to carry to them in the camp, the hospital, and on the battle-field, so thr as practicable, the kind care, the sympathy, and the religious privileges of home. This has been the great aim of the Commission during its whole exist- ence, and has called forth all its varied and wonderful ministrations. On the 10th of December, 1861, seven of us met in this city to see what could he done, and to devise means. We continued in session three days, visiting in the meantime the Army of the Potomac, then 248 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. encamped just across the river, and calling- upon the President and Secretaries of War and the Navy. The President expressed a deep interest in the proposed work, and we have good reason to know that this interest continued and increased, SO lone, as he was spared to guide anil bleSS the people whom he so loved, and who so loved him. The Secretaries of War and the Navy cheered us by the promise of all proper facilities, and General Cameron, then Secretary of War, gave US courage by telling us, in most decided tones, that what we proposed to do was just what was needed; that the nation was en- gaged in a religious war, and our work would give courage to the men and help the Government; and, continued he, "this depart- ment will aid you all it properly can," — a promise most nobly kept by him, and by the great man who succeeded him, to whom we are all so much indebted for the successful termination of the war. In our visit to the camp we were astonished at the eagerness of the men for religious reading and instruction, and at the vast work ready and urgent to he done. We stopped at Falls Church, then used as a, hospital, — a sad scene of suffering and need. We spoke kind words to all the brave sufferers, ami then Rev. Dr. Ncale, of Boston, one of our number, prayed with and for some who were very sick. The m-xi morning, on taking up the daily paper here, we saw that two of those brave men had died during the night. This day's experi- ence gave us a deep ami lasting impression that there was a vast work to he done, and that what we did for many a noble man must he done quickly. With this impression strong in our hearts, and without one dollar in the treasury, we left this city to begin our work. The result, so far as words and figures can tell, you have heard. In view of these results we may reverently say. " It is the Lord's doings, anil is marvellous in our eyes." Hut no words or figures can give any adequate idea of the good done, the men com- forted, the lives saved, the souls directed to heaven. Allow me now, sir, to allude briefly to some ot the causes of this wonderful success. The first great cause, of course, was the remark- ahle readiness ot' the people of the w hole North to do and give every- thing that would aid the nation in its gigantic struggle for life. To save the ( rovernment, at any cost of life or treasure, was the determi- nation that sent our host and noblest young men to the field of strife; that put three thousand millions ot' dollars into our national treasury; THE FOUKTH YEAR. 249 thai poured out millions more to care for, comfort and cheer the be- loved ones given up for the country ; and that gave fervency and con* tinuance to the prayers that went up to (1ml from si. many millions of hearts ami family altars. Hut the Christian Commission attrib- utes its surcoss, among the soldiers, largely to tin' character of its laborers and of their work in the army. In each great army,and in mark every corps, the Commission had a few nun who were paid small salaries, and who remained permanently to direct the work. With them, and under their direction, labored a large number of men whom we called Delegates. A Delegate was one who would give sis \\eek>' time in the army, without compensation, — the ( lorn- mission paying his expenses. By the kindness of the railroads all Over the land, ill giving passes, their expenses were small. Thus must id' the work of this nnhle charity in the army has been dune by men who have received no pay, who left the comforts of home and met the hardships of the camp simply to do g 1 to the bodies and souls nf the soldiers. All the men sent out by this Commission pro- fessed to have adopted, as the rule of their lives, the precepts and example of the blessed Lord, who left the glories of lio:iven to seek and save the lost. As they were commissioned they were told to go to the army, and in camp and on the battle-field, in the hospital and by the way, to do tin- those they met " whatsoever thej would that men should do unto them." And I think 1 am authorized to say that never, since that wonderful saying tell from the lips of Jesus, has its spirit been more fully, nobly, and heroically carried into practice than by these Delegates. Nearly five thousand such men have gone to the army to labor, " without money and without price." In this work judges have left the bench, professors their chairs, clergymen their parishes, lawyers their briefs, doctors their patients, merchants their goods, mechanics their simps, students their I ks, and even members of Congress their seats. Like the Master, they cared for the body in all its wants, and at the same time tillered the bread and water of life to the hungry, fainting souls. Allow me to give a few specimens of their work. After the battle of < lettysburg a I delegate from Maine, a brother of the gallant ( tene- ral Chamberlain, heard just at night of a hospital, some miles away, that had not been visited. Though wearied with the labors of the day, he went to it at once on foot. lie found the head surgeon .-ick, 32 250 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. and the assistant overwhelmed with the care of some two hundred wounded, and no stores or comforts. He told the doctor that (here was a station of the Sanitary Commission within a mile, and asked why he had not got stores. The doctor said he did not know how to get them. The i (elegate wrote an order on the Sanitary Com mission, the doctor signed it, and the Delegate went to the station oftheSani- tary Commission and found that they had gone away. What was to he done? It was late; he was very weary. It was nearly live miles to Gettysburg, where was the station of the Christian Commission, and the road was hard, and the streams all high anil swollen. But the men were suffering, and there was no one but him to help. He took the long and lonely walk, and very early the next morning the wag if the Christian Commission was at that hospital, laden with stores and comforts tor the heroic sufferers. The same Delegate came one day upon an out-of-doors hospital, where the men were lying in the July sun, with no shelter. After looking a moment he took a stone and stick, and arranged the blanket of a soldier so as to shield his face. Others caught the idea, and soon every one in the hospital was sheltered from the burning and torturing blaze of the sun. These are hut specimens of the work. Whatever was needed by Buffering humanity was done by these men, who at home were not accustomed to labor or privation. They labored hard; they lived upon camp fare; they slept often upon the ground. Many of them gave up their lives, a willing sacrifice, and at least one-half of them came home sick, and all this from love to Christ and men. Thou- sands of lives were saved, and hundreds of thousands of sufferers were relieved. Need I say that when these men told the soldier, — by his bedside in the hospital, from the pulpits of the hundreds of chapels of the Christian Commission, or by the camp-fire under the blue arch of heaven, — of that Jesus in whose name they came, the power of whose gospel sent them there, the message was gladly received, the heart was open and tender, and that many and many a noble veteran enlisted under the banner of the cross? From all parts of the army. East and West, and from the almost innumerable hospitals of the land, came up tidings of wonderful conversions and reformations, by thousands and tens of thousands ; the moral tone oi' the army was THE FOURTH Yi:.\i:. 253 raised, and its military efficiency increased. Before such self-deny- ing labors prejudices disappeared and ignorance was turned into admiration. Ai the time of , Lee's first invasion of Maryland some Delegates were senl to Fairfax Station, to be ready when the wounded should come in. There was a quartermaster in charge who had never heard of the Christian Commission. He told the Delegates he could do nothing for them. It was Sunday, and they could not buy any food. Their stores had not arrived, and all the food they had was given tlirin by a negro. At night the quartermaster told them thej looked like gentlemen and he did not wish to have them lie out of doors, and they might sleep in a barn he had charge of. Early nexj morning Mr. Cole, our Field Agent, came into the place with stores and the news that the wounded would soon be there. At once they wenl tn the station, prepared bread, jelly and coffee, and as the wounded arrived, tenderly took them from the ear-, led and bathed them, and cared lor their wants. The quartermaster stood by and Watched them, tears began to roll down his cheeks, and going lip to them he said, " Is that what you do ? I never heard of you, — what, can I do? — for you shall have everything you waul." The favor and love of the army were with these men, and were most touchingly expressed by a soldier who had been eared for by us, and was (old he had but live minutes to live. " liaise me to my knee-," he -aid, " that I may pray for the ( 'hri.-tian ( lommission." After the battles of ( Jeneral Sheridan, in the Valley of the Shen- andoah, the wounded were carried some twenty miles in ambulances to Martinsburg, to take the cars. We had a station nearly a mile from the depot, of which the Rev. Mr. Harding, of Maine, had charge. When the first train came in Mr. Harding found thai no preparation had been made to feed and care for the men, wearied, hungry, and suffering from the long and agonizing ride. He at once went to In- tent, prepared a large iron kettle full of hot tea, took bread and jellies, and, assisted by another clergyman, carried his kettle on a pole to the depot, fed all the men, washed their lace- and hands, and then tenderly helped them into the cars, doing all that he could for their comfort. After this, the man in charge of each successive nam rode ahead, and notified him of the approach of the Wounded, ami they received like care, till about 2,500 men passed 252 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. through his hands, all of whom received their sole nourishment from him and his associates. The fact that the Delegates were just from the North, and often brought news from loved ones at home, gave them additional favor with the army. Their hearts were warm. They had not become accustomed to the sad and necessary scenes of military life, and they were ready to sympathize with all who were in sorrow of body or mind. This the soldiers knew and appreciated. One day a sol- dier came into one of our tents in Virginia, sat down, and said he wanted a little talk with us. He was in trouble, and told his story. Rev. Mr. Bailey, of New Hampshire, the Delegate, said kindly in reply, " Well, my good friend, I am sorry for you, but we can do nothing for you." "I know you cannot," said he, "but I thought a, word or two of sympathy from a Christian man would help me a good deal." Said a fine young soldier to the Rev. Mr. Clark, of Massa- chusetts, "There is one thing we can get only from you gentlemen, and that's sympathy." How precious at such times must have been a word of kindness and sympathy to a soldier, far from home, and under the stern rules and regulations of war. The scenes and dan- ger- of war naturally caused the soldier to think upon his relations to, and preparation for, a future life. Fresh recruits might be light, and speak triflingly of the fight and the charge, but in the Army of the Union most of the veterans were accustomed to think seri- ously, and in the terrible light of the battlefield the old impressions of Sabbath and church, and the early instructions of childhood, were often brought to view with fearful distinctness. Such impres- sions were seized upon by the Delegate, and frequently proved the voice of God calling his wandering children back to himself. There was a man wounded in the first day's fight at Pittsburg Landing. He lay all Sunday night in a tent, held by the rebels, on the ground, in the mud, uncared for. During the long and terrible night, amid the rain and roar of the artillery, there came vividly back to him the text and all the argument of a sermon he had heard twenty years before. The next day, when our troops succeeded, he was rescued and taken to St. Louis, where he was cared for by the mem- bers of the Young Men's Christian Association. The Holy Spirit sent home the impression of that night, and that seed, twenty years buried, sprang up and brought forth fruit in his conversion. He THE FOURTH YEAR. 253 lived six weeks, to give testimony to God's goodness, and died in joy and hope, his last words being, "My God — my country — my mother!" These Delegates, on their return home, were the main dependence of the Commission in the raising of funds and stores. Every Dele- gate told his story of what he had seen and done in the army, often many times, and funds poured in without the cost of agents to col- lect. One Delegate in my own State, a merchant, spent his six weeks in the army, leaving his business, and then upon his return told his story several times each Sabbath, for nearly six months, obtaining many thousands of dollars at no cost to the Commission. Others did nearly as much. People seemed anxious to send of their abundance to those who were in the post of danger and suffering. Some of the most delightful memories of my life are in connection with this free giving. It was my privilege, with others, to sit on the Exchange in Boston, after the battles of Gettysburg, the Wilderness, and after the taking of Richmond, to receive the voluntary offerings of the people for the relief of the wounded. No one was asked to give. No attempt was made to awaken enthusiasm, except by giving notice in each day's papers of the fact, and of the sums given. In a few days, on the first occasion, 835,000 were handed in ; on the second occasion, over §60,000; and on the third, 830,000. These munificent sums were made up of comparatively small contributions, — only one sum as large as 81,000 was given, and from that to ten cents. It was a movement of the people. At times there was a crowd around the tables, and many were waiting their turn to give. When we were receiving money, after the battle of Gettysburg, one day there was written upon the great blackboard on which were put the telegraph dispatches, " Vicksburg has surrendered. U. S. Graht." Instantly shouts went up from the assembled merchants. They all uncovered and joined in singing " Praise God from whom all blessings flow," etc. Some one said, "Let us show our gratitude by our gifts," and the crowd came to our table, and fir some time we Could not take the 254 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. money as last as it was offered. The manner of giving was equally remarkable. "This is my thank-offering," was a frequent remark; " We must take cave of the boys who fight for us," another; while a large proportion said with a smile, "If you want more, .all on me." Contributions soon began to come in by mail, on each occasion, and continued after we had left the Exchange, until the sums received were $100,000, 860,000, and SoO.ooo. But large as these gifts were, there are others that in the sight of heaven arc larger, 1 think. An old lady, eighty years of age, lived in Amherst, Massachusetts, and supported herself by her needle. She walked several miles to bring to her pastor this five-cent bill (holding it up before the audience), that he might send it to me to aid the suffering soldiers. Twenty years ago a dying mother gave to her daughter this silver dollar (exhibiting it). She carefully kept the last gift of her beloved mother till she heard of the work of the Commission. Then she said, " [f my mother were living I know she would give this dollar to help the soldiers, so I will do what I think she would do," and she put the dear memento into our treasury. A widow in New Hampshire sent her only son to war. lie fell and was buried in Virginia. When she heard of what was being done and what was needed in the army, she gave this her wedding ring (showing it i to help the noble sufferers. Such benevolence makes even the smoke and carnage of our terrible battles radiant with the reflected brightness of heaven. Incidentally the Christian Commission has done much to aid the t rovernment, both by raising the tune of the army and by promoting patriotism at home. All of its nearly five thousand Delegates have been not only Christians, hut thoroughly loyal men. and their ad- dresses at home, as well as in the army, have ever been unmistakably on the side of the Government, ami this at some periods of the war lias been an element of much importance and power. Another incidental result of the Commission was a Christian union, in full and perfect operation, in the only way in which it has seemed to me possible, by the working together in a great cause of those who differ in non-essential points of belief. "When men labor and suf- fer together, for the one Lord whom they all love ami by whose death they all live, there is Christian union indeed, such as no high sounding resolutions can produce. All differences disappear from THE FOURTH YEAR. 255 sight. In the tents (if the Commission were found often as man] denominations as men; and as they sung, prayed, preached, and labored together, there was no rivalry, excepl in good works. I know of no.trouble in the army from denominational jealousy, and in the home field the denominations have worked together in the same harmony. May we not hope that this army work, so strange, so unique in the world's history, may be the beginning of the day when all the branches of the host who love the Lord Jesus, like the different corps of a great army, shall march together under one leader, — striving only in this, that each shall do its pari in hastening on the time when the kingdoms of this earth "shall become the king- dom of our Lord and oi' his Christ '!" Such are some of the results of the Commission. Formed in weak- ness, yet in humble dependence upon God, we believe it has received his favor. and blessing, and been the means not only of giving un- speakable comfort to the body, but of shedding the light of heaven into the dark valley, as thousands of our noble and heroic "ues have walked therein. At the battle id' Stone River, during one of the lulls of the terrible fight, a youthful voice was heard calling for aid. Boon it was drowned by the tumult of battle. A.fter the fight was over some soldiers went to look for the sufferer. On going through some high bushes they saw a soldier hoy of about sixteen, sitting up against a tree. As they came near they saw that both his feet had been carried away by a cannon ball. Upon his lap lay his open Bible. His eyes were raised to heaven. A look of joy was on his (ace, while his finger, stiff and cold in death, was laid upon this verse of the 23d Psalm, "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for thou art with me; thy rod and thy Staff they comfort me." I have detained you too long already, but T cannot refrain from alluding to the song next to !»■ sung, which so beautifully and touch- ine.lv sets forth the principle that has guided us in all our labors, — "The doing with all our ability the work immediately before us." This Bong was sung at our anniversary, held here one year ago, by the accomplished musician who will to-night delight us again. Among the hearers was the great, good, gentle President Lincoln. He was moved even to tears byits touching melody, and at hi< request it was repeated. lie is not with US now. In the simple Words of the SOOg, 256 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. in the conflict he has proved himself a soldier true, with malice toward none, with charity to all. "He has been a true disciple," and is now, -we doubt not, "sitting at his Saviour's feet," joining heart and voice in the song, more sweet, more loud, the "Song of Moses and the Lamb." Speaker Colfax said, I regret to inform yon that the Hon. James Harlan (Secretary of the [nterior) is detained by indisposition at home, and will not be able to '»' here as announced. Before singing the beautiful and impressive b vnin, " Yui i: Mission," next in order on the programme, let me read a brief note from the paper I bold in my hand. <»n the 29th of January, 1866, at the last anniversary meeting of this Commission, when hostile armies were con- tending together in deadly strife, this poem was sung as a part of the exercises of the evening. Abraham Lincoln, with his tall form, his care-furrowed face, and his nobly throbbing heart, was here, and, after listening in tears, he sent up, written upon the back of this programme (holding up the precious sheet), in that plain, familiar handwriting, by that hand that now lies cold in the grave, this request : — Near On close, let ics have " Tour Mission!' repeated by Mr. Phillips. Don't say I calledfor it. Lincoln. The hymn was sung by Mr. Philip Phillips, as follows: Your Mission. If you cannot on the ocean Sail among He' swiftest Heel. Rocking on He' highest billows, Laughing at the storms you meet ; V jan stand among the sailors, Anchor'.! y.-l within the bay, 5Tou •■an lend a hand to help them. As thev launch their boats away. If you have not gold and silver Ever ready to command ; If you cannot towards the needy Reach an ever open hand; Yi'ii can \ isit tie' afflicted. i Per the erring yon can weep, 3fou can be a true disciple, Si i 1 1 ii m at the Saviour's feet. If you are too weak to journey Up the mountain, steep and high : You can stand within the valley, While the multitudes go by : You can chant in happy measure, As they slowly pass along, Though they may fa-get the singer. They will not forget the song. If you cannot, in the harvest, Garner up the richest sheaves, Many a grain, both ripe and golden, Will the careless reapers leave; Go and glean among the briers, Growing rank against the wall. For it may lie that their shadow Hides the heaviest wheat of all. the fourth vi:ai:. 257 [fyovi cannol in il onflicl I 1 " not, then, Btand idly waiting, Prove yourself a Boldier true, For some greater work n< 'l<»; It. where fire and s ke are thickest, improve each passing moment, There's no work for you to do j Spr our moments may be few; When Hi" battle-field is silent, Go and toil in any vine, ard, V an go With careful tread, Do not fear to do or dare ; Y an bear away the wo Led, II" you want a field of labor, Y.iu can cover up the dead. You can find it any whore. SPEECH OP REAR-ADMIRAL DAVIS. Bear-Admiral < !harles 1 1. I tavis, of the United States Navy, was m-Nt intro- duced by the Chairman, and spoke as follows: — It is a very welcome thing to mc to have an opportunity to-night to express, in behalf of the navy, the profound sense of gratitude of my own branch of the public service toward its benefactors, the offi- cers and servants of the Christian Commission. And this is the most appropriate occasion for such an expression, when the Commis- sion is about to close its labors, and render the final ai unt of its stewardship. Now that another of the great institutions of the war is about to pass out of existence, the value of its services is brought more forcibly than ever to our minds. These services are duly recorded in reports and set forth in statistical tables. From these we can learn how wide the field of its. labors has been, and how vast and vari-d the amount of its benefactions. At home and in the licld. in the kitchen and in the chapel, on the quarter-deck of the gunboat and on the forecastle, in the hospital and in the school, on the march and in camp, wherever the soldier or seaman was to he found, wherever the hand of benevolence could administer relict', or the voice of religion could lead the distressed spirit by the still water-, there its distributors, its preachers, its Delegates, its mission- aries, its ae'cnts, its collectors, and its numerous officers, of both Sexes, have labored in this great Christian undertaking, prompted by patriotism and inspired by the spirit of our Divine Master, whose soldiers they were, " Under whose blessed cross We wore impressed and engaged to fight." No service seemed to he too great tor the boldness of their enter- prise, and none so small as to escape their sacred sense of duty. If 33 L'.")S ANN.U1.S OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. they endeavored to place in the hand of the dying soldier the rod ami the staff thai comforted him when he entered into the valley of the deep shadows, they not the less sought to enliven the weary hours of the bed of prolonged sickness by histories, biographies, and travels, by treatises of science, and by books of poetry and fiction, selected with scrupulous care. If they supplied medicines and homes, they also gave the ever-blessed cup of cold water. Their Testaments and telegraphs, their steamboat and railroad transporta- tions, their mail and other facilities, bestowed with the free hand of an unstinted liberality, all command our wonder and admiration. And again, the mosl hasty examination of their reports shows how extensive was the geographical region embraced in their labors, — indeed, as extensive as the continent, reaching from the Atlantic to the l'acitic, and following the windings of the great Mississippi, whose 1 full, deep, and enriching stream is the natural and suitable type of the benevolence of this Association, of which the current, though like that id' the Father of Water-, sometimes ob- structed by hanks and shoals, yet, like that again, derived from these very obstacles a new force, and was carried by them into new channels, where its fertilizing power made itself known by its con- tributions to the glory of tin' Creator and the good of man. All this appears to the eye on glancing over the published papers of the institution. But there are two respects in which the benevo- lent labors of the Christian Commission are not so evident, in which they strike down, if possible, into a deeper and more precious vein. 1 mean first to speak of the incalculable amount id' consolation, of the infinite peace and comfort, it has conferred upon friends and relations at home, by its ministrations to the sick, and more espe- cially to the dying, who might never else have heard the voice of the consoler or received those tender sympathies on which the parting soul relies, and which the closing eye requires, llow many of us who are present have offered up our youngest and our best, in their brightest bloom and beauty of youth, a ready and w illiug sacrifice upon the sacred altar o\' our country's service! I need not say how cheerfully this sacrifice has been made. But I must say. to the honor of the Christian Commission, that this sacrifice has found oftentime its greatest alleviation in the knowledge that the ministra- tions of the church have accompanied our children and friends THE FOURTH YEAR: 259 through every scene of danger and suffering, and only lefl them when they had passed beyond the reach of earthly offices, or when the happy return of peace had restored them to their homes, — to homes which derived fresh dignity and felicity from their deeds and sufferings, performed and encountered for the nations sake. Tlic other particular to which I refer, and in regard to which we can never count our obligations to the members of the Christian Commission, is the effect upon both arm- of the service, and by refles action upon the country, by adding to the former an organized reli- gious institution, devoted nol only and exclusively to works and word- of piety, but embracing in the scope of its self-imposed duties all the abounding and far-reaching charities of the Christian char- acter and office. We witness some evidences of tins in the reports, we sec how the word spoken in season lias been received with advan- tage, and we know that, in the nature of things, it could not be otherw ise. But these ami similar moral agencies are not to he weighed and measured by any ordinary standards, or by any effects that fall under common observation. There is enough however to enable us to perceive that the active members of the Christian Commission have been co-workers with the army and navy in the field, and to SUggesI the idea that hereafter such an institution ought to form an essential part of a great military establishment in time of war. We owe to it the preservation of the moral influences of home and of ill. restraints of society in remote and boisterous seine-, where both are liable to he forgotten or neglected. We owe to it no doubt the return of many a young soldier to the domestic fireside, not hardened and corrupted, but strengthened and tried, by a long life in .amp-. And we feel assured that under this general view there lie, concealed from human sight, many of the rewards of the good and faithful servant, and many of the blessings that fell from the lips of those who were ready to perish. A.mong the future historians of this BtTUggle there must he one who will make it his whole business to elucidate the part performed by the Christian Commission, and to impress upon the mind- of the generations to come that to its organization ami efficient working in all its branches, beginning with the elementary local societies that gathered in the first subscriptions, to the active nurses, physicians, 260 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. and preachers on the field of actual battle, we owe, in great measure, this one grand result : that by adding to the army and navy an organ- ized religious society, which everywhere combined the ministrations and services of the church with the operations of war, and by their practically blending together the duties and sentiments of the camp and quarter-deck and those of religion, it has aided to elevate the mind of the patriotic soldier or seaman to the most exalted conception of his duty. ADDRESS OF REV. HERRICK JOHNSON. The Key. Herricb Johnson, of Pittsburg, Pa., was the next speaker. He said : — Mr. < '/minium, Ladies mill Gentlemen: It has been remarked that the work and the life of the Christian Commission' have closed. It is true that, as an organized outward agency, it is a thing of the past. Bui as an unseen, subtle power, entering into the moral forces that are henceforth to do their part in Cod's great evangelisms, as a demonstration of unselfish, heroic achievement, as an inspiration to a like effort in a time of war, it is not dead, — it will never die. The form is gone. Its living, animating spirit is a thing of God, to be forever. 1 need not ask for a better vindication of my words than this gathering here to-night. Generals and statesmen are here to pay this long-ago practically disbanded organization deserved enco- miums. The representatives of the nation arc here to make grateful offering for its ministry of love and blessing. Bereaved mothers all over the land are here in spirit, invoking licnisons on its officers and agents, ami thanking God that it ever had an existence. May it not he that others are here, whose souls have been " inarching on " ever since they fought their last battle, who were made soldiers of Christ through the agency of this Christian Commission, before they met and conquered their last foe, and who now, with their warfare all accomplished, look down with interest upon this scene to-night. Into such presence I am summoned, as one who lias been in the Commission's work, to be a voice for its deeds, to place brief record of its holy doing amidst their coronation hour, that others mure lit than 1 may set it round with glowing and peerless eulogy. How can I do this better than by saying that the Commission had in substance a three-fold office? It aimed to reach and link together the battle- Tin; FOURTH YEAR. 261 field, home, heaven, — the heart of the soldier, the parent's heart, and the hearl of ' fod. Well ilii I remember with what feelings we left Washington in May, 1864, just after the battle of Hi'' Wilderness. Some of the slightly wounded were even then mi their way to the city, but thou- sands !<-> you's," oh, it was a new baptism to In' baptized with! It was work that Christ smiled on,— for he, knowing that he was come from God ami went to God, took a towel and girded himself, and washed his disciples' feet. Thus by the little delicacies ami loving ministries we first found our way down through thr roughness ami the hardness, through the reserve ami the reticence, through the bolted ami thr barred d 's, down into tin' soldiers' hearts, — tor tin' hardest ami thr roughest of them had a heart, -ami, reaching this, how easily ami naturally came the words, home, wife, mother ! Whal memories these charmed words called up! what fountains tiny stirred in those manly bosoms! and away went m issages of love from the Bufferers to the loved ours at h" , hundreds of them every day written by the Delegates. And whal is next to home and mother? What but heaven and Jesus? And so we led their thoughts there. To the dying we spoke of him who -aid. " lie thai liveth and In ilieveth ill me -hall never die." To the suffering we repeated the precious word.-, "Come unto me all ye thai labor and are heavy laden, ami I will give you rest." Go with me fiir a moment and look upon one of these hospital scenes. There lies a young soldier wounded unto death. "What can I do fur you, my brave fellow?" " Speak to me of Jesus ;" and the word- that Suggest themselves are, 262 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. "Jesus, lover of my soul, Let me to thy bosom fly." " Oh, won't you sing them, sir?" And another wounded soldier, lying near, takes up the words and sings, "Jesus, lover of my soul, Let me to thy bosom fly." And then the dying drummer-boy repeats the prayer, and even while the words are on his lips the prayer is answered, and his soul is away on it.- flight to the bosom of Jesus. I remember a soldier from Maine who had lost his left leg. The little delicacies and attentions had opened his heart. He had told me of his widowed mother and loving sisters, and I had written his message home, and back came their noble answer, saying, "We can- not be thankful enough to God, if from the glorious Army of the Potomac he give us back our darling with only the loss of one leg." And from that couch of suffering was sent up a message to heaven also. And that, I believe, found answer, — more blessed even than the message home. For hours and days he had been lying on the hard floor, with nothing but a blanket under him, restless and sleep- less from the shock his nervous system had received. There in the dusk of evening, with his hand close clasped in mine, the patient hero breathed his low prayer, " Oh Father, God, be pitiful, — be mer- ciful. — give me rest, — rest of body and of soul, — Oh, give me rest." And the hard floor seemed to grow woolly soft, as if Jesus had pil- low,.] ii, and rest, "of rest God's rest the best,'" came to that tired heart. "He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust." I recall another, a young sergeant, in that hospital at Fredericks- burg, one of whose limbs had been sadly shattered. He was a brave, patient buy, but remarkably reticent, resolutely maintaining a cold reserve. For days he was proof against all kindness, but at last I found the way down into his heart's secret place of tenderness and tears, and the great drops wet his cheeks as he told me how he had run away from home and almost broken his mother's heart. He said his own pain was nothing to the trouble he had given her. " Shall I write to your mother," I asked, " and tell her how and where you tite fourth teak. -!>'■) arc?" "Oli yes," said he; "but break the news gently, break it gently, and oh, tell her how sorry I am for having laid such a bur- den on her loving heart." And then we talked of another home he had wandered from and another heart he had grieved, and I asked him if he hadn'1 a penitent message to send home to God. Ere long 1 believe there was joy in the presence of the angels over the return of one more prodigal. The surgeons at last decided that this young sergeant's leg musl be amputated, and very soon it became manifest that even this would not save him, and wo told him he must die. lie was ready; arms, haversack, canteen, blanket, all hail been losl on the battle-field, but he had clung to the flag he bore, and he lay there with the stars and stripes wrapped about him. Just as he was dying his lip- moved. We stooped to listen. He was making his last charge: "Come on, boys! our country and our flag- forever!" We asked him, "Is the Saviour with you?" And he whispered, "Do you think he would pass by and not take me? I go, I go." And wrapped in stars he went up among the stars. So the Christian Commission has sought to do its. work; first the. hospital or liattle-field, then home, then heaven ; first to the heart of the soldier, then to the mother's heart, then to the heart of ( kid. It was once my privilege to stand upon the summit of Mount Right in Switzerland, and from its queenly top witness an autumnal sunset. Far away to the West the narch of day wrapped the drapery of his couch about him and lav down as if he were a god confessed. He flung his splendors on that unequalled landscape with royal iniiniiieoncv. He kissed the water- that lay embosomed among the hills till I hey all Mushed. The bald peaks to the right and the: left of u- ha red their storm-beaten brows and bathed in the sunlight. And higher up and farther away the snow-capped monarchs of the Alps tossed back the sun's last rays from their icy Miles in cold and proud disdain. But more beautiful than all, the gem of that most wondrous picture, was the bridge of golden sheen that stretched over hills and valley-, and lakes and dells, from the far distant horizon to our very feet. It seemed as if heaven's gates had been left open and glory had stolen through. It was cast up by the hand of (bid, a way ol' gold, on which angels might have trodden. So I have stood beside the dying soldier, when it has seemed a- if a bridge of golden sheen were let down from heaven, — a highway for the ransomed of 204 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. the Lord. And that way, cast up of God, has glowed with the steps of the angels, come to bear the soldier, who had made his last charge and fought his last battle, home. And up that shining path, with angel convoy, the spirit has gone, away from the clang of arms and the din of strife, and the groans of the wounded, — away, away, to the very gates of pearl, — to the peace like a river, and the rest of God. Oh tins, are tlie undying tokens and proof of the success of the Commission, whose final anniversary we celebrate to-night. The nation may point to its States won back from treason, the army may point to its battle-flags wrung from the toe by vigor and valor and victory, generals may point to their starred shoulders as proofs of undaunted heroism, sanitary agencies may roll up their peerless record of sublime beneficence, — but there, up there, are the souls that arc marching on, marching on; there are the trophies immortal, that have been snatched from death; there are the unfading stars, that have been set in Christ's diadem through the agency of this Christian Commission. On the conclusion of the above address a stirring patriotic hymn, from the "Musical Leaves," entitled "We arc rising as a people," was sung by Mr. Phillips, the audience joining in lull chorus. The Honorable Senator from Wisconsin, J. R. Doolittle, then spoke as follows: — SPEECH OF SENATOR DOOLITTLE. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Christian Commission: I remember well when I sat with you at your last anniversary. This Hall was crowded to its utmost capacity. In the midst of the assembly was one whom I do not see present witli you to-night. As I ascended the steps of the Capitol, I saw the flag of our country draped in mourn- ing. This tabic is draped in mourning; and to-morrow ' the nation assembles here, to pay its tribute of respect to that one who is not here to witness the closing scenes of this great charity, to which his soul was so devoted. My Christian friends, if it were possible for the spirit of our mar- i The allusion is to Mr. Bancroft's Eulogy upon President Lincoln, which was pronounced, in the presence of Congress and the other Departments of the National Government, on the day following the Commission's Anniversary. THE FOURTH YEAR. 265 tyred Lincoln to leave the skies; it' it were possible for us to suppose thai he stood now in this presence, and although our eyes do nol see lii in , vet in our souls we could realize him as being here, what message would he bring from the skies? He would saw undoubtedly, "God the Father says, 'Bless the Christian Commission; 1 God the Saviour says, 'Bless the Christian Commission;' God the Holy Spirit says, 'Bless the Christian Commission;' ami the angels in heaven all say, ' Bless the Christian Commission.'" And thai mighty throng of the departed dead, the angel spirits of those who have gone, sacrificed in this war to sustain the Government which we so love, — and there are many here who have loved ones there, — they would all say, if he could hear their message to us from the skies, ''Bless the Christian Commission!" My friends, this Commission is indeed, as you have heard to-night, the child of the church. In no country, in no age, among no people on the face of the earth, has such a manifestation of charity been known. And not only is it the child of the church, but our country itself, with all its glorious institutions, is the outgrowth of Christian civilization. The old world was too crowded, too contracted by its systems of government, to give to Christian civilization the full and free exercise of its spirit and power. Therefore, in the providence of the Almighty Being who rules the universe, this new world of ours was reserved for the very purpose of planting a Christian civili- zation, and one which should reach its highest development in its adaptation to human government. And, my friends, I believe, not only as a patriot, but as a bumble Christian, that (bid has a high and holy purpose to fulfill through this nation and this people, and that we from the beginning have been, are now, and ever shall be. Under his own peculiar and special watch ami care; and though wars may be permitted in His wisdom to come upon us, and though we may pass through fiery trials, such as the baptism of lire and blood we have now so recently experienced, I yet believe that God will be with U-, that He is with us, leading us upward and heavenward, in order that we as a people may realize upon earth ;i higher, a better, a diviner life. Therefore I have hailed with joy and watched with pride the labors of this (bid-given Christian Commission, and feel to-night, if I too may be permitted to raise my humble voice, like saying, " Bless the Christian Commission," and 1 speak as a member 34 266 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. of one of tin' branches of Congress, feeling that I represent also the voice of that body. Let me say, friends, in n concluding word, that we may well regard all human history as divided by the one great fact of the advent of Christ upon the earth. " Before Christ," "After Christ," express the two great periods of history. All that preceded him but prepared the way for his coming, and all that has followed has been blessed by his beneficence. And I think that, although the progress of humanity has been slow since his appearing on earth, yet, in spite of poverty and destitution and ignorance and superstition and toil and servitude and suffering, humanity, — poor, fallen, degraded as it has been, — is being gradually led upward, by the influences of Chris- tianity, to a higher and a better stall'; and this very Christian Com- mission, with what it has developed and performed, demonstrates that at this hour Christian power and influence upon earth is greater, more potent, more beneficent, than at any other period since the Saviour appeared. It was in view of this that the old Christian poet exclaimed, " In the cross of Christ I glory, Towering e'er the wrecks of time, All the light of sacred story Gathers round its head sublime." Major-Gciieral George G. Meade. ( 'ommander of the Army el' the PotOUiac, had been announced as a speaker, lie was detained from the meeting by sick- ness in his family. Major-General Augur, upon a short notice, consented to occupy the vacant place. M UOR-GENERAL AUGUR'S SPEECH. When 1 consented to appear upon the platform to-night, I was in no way expected to fill the vacancy created by the absence of Gene- ral Meade. I do not feel myself competent to fill the place of that distinguished officer. And yet 1 am willing at all times to bear my feeble but cheerful and grateful testimony to the inestimable value of the Christian Commission, not only as an association, but to the fidelity and devotion, the quiet and unobtrusive heroism, of its mem- bers and agents. I am not unmindful of the fact that, at the com- mencement of the late war, it was not an unusual thing to hear this TIIF, FOURTH YEAR. 267 association and kindred ones spoken of ;is being unnecessary, and in the way; that the Governmenl was abundantly able and willing to lake caii' of its nun soldiers, and required mtside aid. And it was noi an uncommon thing to see the inapt and unskilled efforts of some of its earlier agents provoking the contemptuous sneer and smile. But as the war progressed, and on one and another of our battle- fields these same agents were found administering to the wants of our wounded and dying soldiers, having on hand always, and appa- rently in the most miraculous manner, every appliance uecessary at any given time, a change began to come over the spirit of men's minds with regard to this matter, and these unskilled agents became as it were transformed into very angels of mercy. And now that the war is oxer, and the good work of the Commission is finished, 1 presume no one fact is better established in the minds of the people of this country than that the Christian Commission has been the means of saving hundreds of valuable lives, and of relieving an untold amount of human suffering. And in estimating the value of the services of the Commission, we should not merely regard the material aid or comfort afforded our men, however ample and generous that may have been. There is another view of it which in my mind is more important than all Others. The agents of this Commission were Christian men, men who by their precept and example, and by Cod's assistance, were enabled to Strengthen many men who were about to fall, to comfort and help the weak-liea rted, and to sustain and gather up many a man who had already fallen. These men were competent to give shape to the thoughts of dying men, to administer the consolations of religion to the hearts of men ready to perish, and to bear home to the hearts of mothers, widows, wives, — thirsty hearts, — news of the all- sent ones, messages of the dying, last tokens of affection, and in many instances the words of forgiveness and repentance and hope for the future, to calm, to comfort, and to cheer the surviving ones at home. Truly the record of the Commission is a fair and full one. It is a record of self-sacrifice and devotion which is creditable to us as a na- tion and a people, and one of which we may justly be proud. And I believe the people, the nation, are proud of it. This meeting to-niglit, representing every portion of our COUntrj . is ample public evidence that such is the ease. There is other evidence than this, how ev er. 208 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. that should be prized by the agents of this Commission. It is the testimony borne by the number of crippled, wounded, and diseased men still suffering, who now at homes and around hundreds of fire- sides relate again and again their stories of battles and wounds, and mingle with their tales their grateful eulogies of the Christian Com- mission and kindred agencies, to which they feel that it is mainly due that their homes and those of many others in our land are not now darkened with the signs of mourning and the habiliments of woe. One more class of evidence should be prized, not the less because it is not available here. I mean the great mass of unre- corded testimony, borne by those whose dying moments in hospital and camp have been soothed by the ministrations of the agents of this Christian Commission. The great Master has seen and recorded this testimony. He whose Spirit prompted and continued this great and glorious work has smiled upon these labors, and let us hope and believe that he has given evidence ample in his present blessing, and that it shall in the future receive that verdict which should be suffi- cient for the Christian Commission and for all men, " Well done, good and faithful servant." Speaker Colfax said: — You have already heard a minister of Christ who lias acted as a Delegate of the Commission in the armies of the East ; it would be proper now to listen to the testimony of another divine who labored with the armies of the West. I have the pleasure of introducing to you the Rev. B. \V. Chidlaw, of Ohio. ADDRESS OF REV. R. W. CHIDLAW. Brethren: When I was a boy in Ohio my mother taught me the Lesson of obedience, and I do not wish ever to prove recreant to her good teachings. Else, sir, I should not dare to stand up before such an audience to-night, called out so unexpectedly and suddenly. But, brethren and friends, I am ready always to lift up my voice, feeble as it may be, for my God and my country. The United States Christian ami Sanitary Commissions are insti- tutions peculiar to the United States of America. England had a Florence Nightingale, whose womanly heart throbbed in earnest sympathy with the suffering soldiers of the Crimea. The United States of America, embodying the great principles of philanthropy, of patriotism, aud of religion, has embodied the sentiment and the THE FOURTH YEAR. 269 conviction, the piety and the humanity of Florence Nightingale in these am] kindred glorious hist ii utions, that are alike the glory of our country ami the honor of our common Christianity. The first Delegate of the Christian Commission of whom [ever knew was a shepherd boyin Israel. In the midst of war, when his brothers were in camp, his lather called him lii him, ami said, " My son, go to the front with this parched corn, and cheese, ami these barley loaves, ami see how thy brethren fare, and cheer them with these presents." Thus curly was fixed the communication between the home and the camp. From this source, — the blessed Hunk that has God for its author, truth fin' its matter, ami eternal life for its grand aim, — the Christian C mission drew its principles ami its inspiration. Ami it has a history. Wearewriting ii down to-night, ami sealing it with these closing scenes. Its four years' record is complete. We are here to close up the army work of tin- American people in their homes, and, with the noble army that yon had in the held, my illustrious < reneral I turning and addressing himself to < rene- ral ( rrant i, we have come to he mustered out of the service. The gallant Thirty-Ninth, of Ohio, was mustered in when the call of our imperilled country sounded through the land, a thousand strong, in .Inly of 186] ; and with our arms and munitions, and our knapsacks slung, we marched for Missouri, whose soil the noble Lyon had just baptized with his, loyal blood. For four years and more that gallant regiment made its history. You had it, my noble General I addressing * reneral < rrant I, in the midst, of those illustrious regiment- whom you mustered out at Camp Dennison, in Ohio, last July. The old chaplain felt a glowing pride in his boys and officers of the Thirty-Ninth, and went among them with all his early loyc, to see them honorably yield up the service they had been permitted to take upon them for their country. Out of the full thousand men who left their homes in Ohio, Only three hundred and nine were there to give up the arms which they had so bravely wielded for the light, under your leadership, < reneral, with such glorious success. Brethren of the Christian Commission, and friends in this great assembly at the Capitol of my country, we arc hen- to he mustered out of tin- Service for our homes and churches, and for ( 'hri-t, among the boys in the field. Thank ( rod, t lie days for this service are 0V< r. Hut 1 think now of the blessed work of preaching Jesus among my 270 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. men, of what good meetings we had, what glorious prayer-meetings, how ray colonel and the officers helped the old chaplain in the work, made his heart strong to preach Christ, and helped him in his efforts to lead the boys to a higher and holier life, and to fight down the rebellion. And just such are the reminiscences of the Commission's work. But there are now no more favors to be granted by the Government, no more aid to receive at the hands of military officers. You gave your favors generously (addressing the distinguished civil and military officers around him), and we thank you, in the name of the people, and of the churches, ami of all those to whom our work came with a blessing; you made our hearts strong and valiant to labor for Christ, anil to do good to the bodies as well as to the souls of every blue-coat man from the Atlantic to the Pacific. We thank you, General, and, through you, your officers; we thank the repre- sentatives of our Government, the army and navy, all, for the great encouragement and the unexpected and enlarged facilities you gave us in our humble ministry. And, my brother, (approaching Mr. Stuart, the Chairman of the Commission, and, in the midst of great applause, shaking him with warm Western earnestness by the hand), my brother, we muster you out to-night. We shall not meet with you again, nor with our bre- thren of the Commission, in a hundred places, and from thousands of platforms and pulpits pleading the cause of the soldier. Blessed be God that he gave you, and all the brethren who stood up for the Commission at home, in behalf of the men at the front, and reached out to the great heart of the men and women of the North, securing these six millions of dollars' worth of blessings and comforts, to help the American soldier in his noble battle for the Government, and for right and truth in the world. Yes, brother Delegates, many a scene in the prayer-meeting, around the camp-fire, in the hospital, in the tent, when we talked of Jesus to the boys in blue, when we mingled our prayers and our songs with theirs, and bade them be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might, comes to mind now. Happy days. They are burned into these hearts of ours, and we shall speak of them when the next mustering out comes, at that last Great Day, when the glorious Captain of our salvation, Jesus Christ, shall say to us, " Come up higher," and we shall cast our crowns at his feet, and talk THE FOURTH YEAR. 271 over liis work in the hospital, in the f i t ■ 1 » 1 , in the camp, and by the way, and be forever with one another and the Lord ! But, brethren, the reapers follow the sowers. We are mustered on! to-night from sowing, that we may go to reaping. Why, it is reaping time already. The other day, in a little Log cabin in the upper valley of the Miami, I stood preaching the gospel to a group of children. A mother came up to me and said, " Preacher, I want yon to go home with me. My boy was buried near Atlanta. J want you to go home with me." " I will go," I said. She took me with her. Reaching her home, she opened a little drawer, and brought out a package which she unfolded carefully, and then handed me a letter. "Don't you see the little dove in the corner," she said, "and the words ' United States Christian Commission?'" What was it? It was the last letter from her boy, written by a Delegate of the Com- mission, — her dear boy, her all, who had given himself for his coun- try, and whom she had given cheerfully to the cause. < Hi how rich a country is ours, brethren, saved by the blood of such sons of such mothers, — consecrated by the mother-love of the thousands of bereft ones, who in the midst of their loneliness and tears rejoice over a land redeemed, regenerated, disenthralled. Let.us thank God, bre- thren, for our Government; and for anything we may have done to sustain it in the hour of its peril ; for our army and navy victorious; and oh, whenever we see that banner, that beautiful emblem of our national life and power, let us thank God that it is unsullied and free, and let us, girding ourselves with his might, be nerved anew to work for him, to do our whole duty, and to live for glory, honor, and immortality, and all will be well. At tliis point " America" was sung by the audience, with thrilling effect. Rev. Bishop Matthew Simpson was then introduced, and made the concluding address, as follows: — BISHOP SIMPSON'S ADDRESS. Mr. Speaker : Under the arrangements made bythe Committee, the closing address has been assigned to me, witli the suggestion that some "parting words" should be uttered to those active workers who, for four years past, have given so largely of their time, their ener- gies, and their means in behalf of the Christian Commission. 272 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. We have already listened to the recital of the work which has been done, and have been astonished at the magnitude of the contri- butions. Scenes of suffering and of deatli have passed in review, and fit words of praise have been bestowed on those "ministering spirits" who, amidst the carnage of the battle and the terrible dis- eases and sufferings of the hospital, sought to relieve or to comfort the wounded and the dying. And when I review this work in all its aspects, I think that no encomiums can be too great. It has been food and clothing and shelter to the destitute ; medicine, physicians, and nurses to the sick and the wounded ; comfort and hope and heavenly joy to the dying. Its spirit has been the spirit of Christ. I prize it, however, not only for the benefits conferred upon the soldier and the sailor, but for the aid which it gave our Government in the hours of peril. I honor, with all possible honor, the skilful and gallant offi- cers who led our armies to victory. I could spend hours in recount- ing the bravery and the undying heroism of the private soldiers ; and yet to-night I express a doubt whether, without the agency of the Christian Commission, our recent war could have been brought to a triumphant close. The conflict was a fearful one. For a time doubt existed in many minds as to the final issue. The soldiers in the field knew not that they were eared for at home, and the great mass of the public knew but little of the fearful struggle of the war. But, sir, when this Commission was formed, and Delegates were called for to visit the camps, eloquent ministers left their pulpits, active laymen closed their offices and stores, or left the plough in the furrow, and hastened to the front. From every part of the land, from Maine to Minnesota, they carried to the brave boys words of kindness and tokens of sympathy from mothers, wives, sisters, and daughters. The soldiers felt that the eyes of loved ones were upon them, that the hearts of their friends were with them, and they were tired with new ardor, and furnished with new strength for the terrible conflict. Nor did these Delegates act simply as friends. By their prayers and teachings they sanctified the war in the hearts of the soldiers. Immorality is fearfully prevalent in camps ; the voice of profanity is too often heard, even from officers. Young men were liable to think that the conflict must be wicked. But when these friends, whom they knew for years to be men of prayer and faith, went from camp THE FOURTH YEAR. 273 to camp, and from hospital to hospital, working without pay, reliev- ing suffering, and speaking of Jesus; their hearts were touched. These Delegates did to some extent the work of chaplains, but they did more. The chaplain was an officer of the army. He received his pay from the Government. Pure and noble he might be, full of ardor many a chaplain was, yet the suspicion would arise that he might be selfish in his labors. But these Delegates had sacrificed the comforts of home and family ; they left business and pulpits to visit the soldiers, and to cheer them in their toil. Their voices were familiar. Home and its associations rose before the young men. They listened eagerly, and not only were their hearts affected, but the war was made sacred by the prayers and sympathies of friends at home. No)' was this powerful influence felt merely by the soldiers. The returning Delegates carried tidings from the army to every part of the nation. The national heart was stirred and fired. Mothers re- ceived messages from dying boys and wept, and consecrated their all to the service of the country. No words of regret came from the battle-field, but the sacrifice of health, of limbs, and of life, was cheer- fully and nobly given. Often too had notes of Christian joy and triumph fallen from the lips of the dying soldier, and sometimes the erring one, wdio had left his father's house a prodigal, was led by these missions of mercy to the cross of Christ. Can we be surprised that under such influences the nation arose in its majesty? True heroism was stirred, and the war was made sacred in the eyes of the people. Prayer was offered in almost every pulpit and at almost every fire- side. Then came that wonderful outpouring of means of which you have heard, swelling in such a wonderful ratio that nearly one-third of the whole amount was given in the last four months of the rebellion. Such labors have given a feeling of sacrcdness in the hearts of the community to our Government and our flag. Not only were the officers of State and the officers of the army and navy made the sub- jects of earnest prayer, hut our Government became intimately iden- tified with every feeling of religion ami with every act of mercy. The Christian Commission received all needed aid from the' officers of the Government, while the work was voluntary ; they hail the approbation of the State, ami alike the suffering soldier and sympathizing and be- reaved friends felt that their country was their benefactor. How often, 35 274 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. too, with the last message of the dying boy was connected that touch- ing request that he might be wrapped in the folds of that flag for which he had fought. How dear that flag henceforth must be in the cabin and the mansion, in the forest and in the city! It stands connected with the noblest actions and with the holiest emotions, and wherever it shall wave will he greeted by an enthusiasm unknown before. The influence of this Commission reaches beyond our land. It strengthens the cause of Christianity throughout the world. We have in it another development of the Christian life, a higher proof of its divine power over the heart of a nation. Christianity lias been for centuries winning triumphs. It has civilized and instructed the masses, founded schools and seminaries, diffused the knowledge of human rights, sanctified the press, and influenced the Governments of earth. It has entered the domestic circle, and elevated woman ; it ha- purified and ennobled the relationships of life ; and the highest and purest spirits have given it their homage. But never before had it stepped forth in all its glorious radiance upon the field of battle. Occasionally a Christian minister had accompanied or followed the warring hosts. Sometimes here and there were seen a Christian man, and in a few instances a Christian woman, ministering amidst the carnage to the wounded and the dying. But in this great and holy work the whole Christian church united. The churches gave their means, their men, and their ministers. As you have heard in the report, ministerial labor amounting to 181,000 days was freely given, nearly equal to the labor of one man for five hundred years. What a glorious act of churches founded on the voluntary principle and free from all connection with the State! Not only so. Christian denominations have been denounced as envious and jealous sects, who would not unite in any good work. But here men of all denominations intermingled freely. .Men of all creeds stood side by side, engaged in works of mercy, emulous only in performing humble services and deeds of love. And thus the churches, bound together in one great effort for the cause of Christ, have exemplified true Christianity. As citizens they rallied under one Hag, as Christians under one cross. Here has been presented a true Christian brotherhood. Men have labored for such a brotherhood in various ways. They have sought it in creed-, and have vainly tried to compel belief. They have sought it in ceremo- THE FOURTH YEAR. 275 in.-, and have sought for uniformity. Ambitious men have sought to make their order universal, and to compel the unwilling by the secular power. The brotherhood of Jesus, or the Jesuit order, is a striking illustration of the yearning for union, and of seeking for it on an impure basis. It accomplished wonders by zeal and toil, and the followers ofLoyola will ever he both an example and a warning to the church. Evangelical alliances have been formed and Chris- tian unions, and men have crossed the ocean to meet kindred spirits, to exchange cordial greetings. Alas! how little has been realized ! But in this Commission a brotherhood was formed without plan and without effort. It was based on the eternal truth of < bid's holy word, and a spirit of sacrificing love that yearned over every human suf- ferer. It went forth to minister as Christ ministered. It did the Master's work, and he clothed it with his glory. His servants fol- lowed his footsteps, and they became one. This is the lesson the Commission has taught the world. Nor would I forget that in this great work Christianity has called woman to her aid, and has given her a most wonderful mission as an apostle of liberty and an angel of mercy. In the history of the world we behold in Eastern lands woman secluded and confined, a veil is upon her face, her voice is scarcely heard in council, and still less heeded, and on all sides darkness, ignorance, and degradation abound. In Europe woman is partially elevated. She moves more freely in society, and is engaged here and there in works of mercy and love; and where her footsteps go light and happiness accompany her. We have heard of one Florence Nightingale. All England boasted of her labors of humanity. The press heralded her name, and her fame reached to the ends of the world. She was an angel of mercy at the Crimea. But, sir, in our country, and under the auspices of this Commission, we have had not nnr Nightingale merely, but over hill and plain, around camp and hospital, the sweet strain- of thousands of voices have been heard from the early dawn of morning light until they have melted away upon the gathering shadows of night. Woman has shown herself able to stand side by side with man in this great work. Her fingers were busy with the needle and at the sewing-machine, preparing bandages and clothing. At the fireside and the kitchen she prepared comforts, and even luxuries, for the sick. She formed associations for aid and relief, She went from 27. i>., of New York. Tints has a mighty work been begun, continued, and ended, in the favor of the rulers and the people, and with the manifest approval of Heaven. It is evident from the foregoing that a volume, of ex- traordinary interest and permanent value, might readily be compiled from the addresses delivered at the public meetings of the Christian Commission. The foremost men of the nation, as speakers in the pulpit and upon the platform, from every profession, were wont to dis- cuss at these gatherings the living questions of the hour, with comprehensiveness, pertinence, sobriety, earnest- ness, eloquence, and effectiveness, such as were not sur- passed. No one exerted a wider influence in behalf of the Commission, by his personal presence and voice. 280 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. than its Chairman, Mr. Stuart. Of his numerous public speeches, the following is given as possessing no little historical interest. Mr. Stuart was in Europe during the spring and summer of 1866. By invitation of the American Bible Society, he represented them at the Anniversary of the British and Foreign Bible Society. The meeting was in Exeter Hall, May 2, 1866, the Earl of Shaftesbury, President of the Society, in the chair. Mr. Stuart 1 said:— My Lord : It affords me groat pleasure to have the honor of second- ing the Resolution which lias just been moved, and so eloquently supported by my Christian brother who last addressed you. I appear before you to-day as a most unworthy representative, if not of the oldest member of your family, certainly of one of the largest of your children. I regret that such a child of yours, which has grown to such proportions in my adopted country, is not better represented upon this occasion. I owe the position which I occupy to-day doubt- less to the relation which, under God, I was called upon to sustain to the army which went forth to subdue the slaveholders' rebellion. The American Bible Society was bom in the year 1816, and next week it will attain its fiftieth year. During the current, its Jubilee year, it has had a special work assigned to it, but to that special work I will not further refer. I have the honor of being supported on this occasion by a brother' from my own city, who is a distinguished member of the Protestant Episcopal Church. I am a Presbyterian and he is an Episcopalian, but we have stood side by side in many of the battles of the late war, and ministered alike to the soldiers of the Confederate army and the soldiers of the Union army. The American Bible Society, during the past year, issued from its deposi- i This address is copied from the Monthly Reporter of the British and Foreign Bible Society for June 1, 1866. It was translated into the principal languages of Europe, and also by Protestant missionaries into some of the Asiatic tongues. - The Rev. Robert J. Parvin, of Philadelphia, who was closely identified with the work of the Christian Commission, and rendered it very important service in many departments. THE FOURTH YEAR. 281 lories It") 1,945 volumes, and during the fifty years of its existence it has issued 21,660,079 volumes of the Word of God. It received last year $642,645, which was 835,000 less than the sum received ill the preceding year, hut the falling oil' was mainly owing to a diminution in legacies, while the general receipts were as large as ever. The amount of money received last year was 8200,000 more than its largest receipts during any year previous to the rebellion. The capa- city of the Bible Society was taxed to the utmost flu ring the war. Although callable of throwing off, through its steam-power presses, twelve copies of the Word of God every working minute, there were times when the demand from the army was such that those presses were unable to meet it, and it never fell during all that time below the issue of nine copies per minute. When the war commenced we had an army of 16,000 men, scattered from Maine to California, but in the course of the war there were called into the field 2,000,000 of men, young men from schools and seminaries, young men unused to the hardships of the battle-field; and the Christian people of the land felt that we ought not only to follow these young men with our pra\ ers, but that we ought above all to furnish them with the bread of life, through the gospel of Jesus Christ. During the four years of the struggle there were distributed, among the army and navy alone, over 2,000,000 copies of God's Word, in whole or in part. The principal agency for that distribution was the United States Christian Com- mission, which distributed 1,406,748 copies, all of which were received gratuitously from the American Bible Society, with the exception of 15,000 copies forwarded to us from your own depository; and I am here to-day to return to you our grateful thanks for that contribution. It was one of a most welcome description, and there was hardly an officer commanding a corps, division, or a brigade in the whole army, who was not supplied with one of your neatly bound volumes. We not only received from this Society 15,000 copies of ( rod's Word, but we also received an assurance that if we drew at sight our drafts would lie honored. We felt grateful fin- that noble offer; hut, thanks be to God, our own Society had means placed in its treasury which enabled it to meet every want. Let me now allude to one of the many incidents in the American war. I don't know what "the Old Lady in Threadneedle Street," as the Bank of England is called, would say if she were asked to give live pounds for a copy of a note 3G 282 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. which I hold in my hand ; but she would probably say, "We don't do business in that way." This is the bank-note sent by a poor woman in England, during the war, to buy Bibles for the soldiers of the North. Fifty or a hundred guineas would not buy it (here hold- ing up the original bank bill), for it has incited to many other gifts, and brought "much money" to our treasury; and if you have any difficulty, my lord, with regard to your Building Fund, it might per- haps be well if you were to borrow it. The letter enclosing it is as follows. It was addressed to President Lincoln, and by him sent to me. Bear President: I hope you will pardon me for troubling you. Ohio is my native State, and I so much wish to send a trifle in the shape of a £o Bank-of- England note, to buy Bibles for the poor wounded soldiers of the North, which I hope they may read. Yours, very respectfully, Maky Talbot Sorby. Fir Cliff; Derbydale, Derbyshire, England. Let me now say a word or two about our United States Christian Commission, which exerted itself so much among our soldiers during the war. That Commission was simply the Church of Christ, in all her branches, in an organized form, going forth in time of war, as our blessed Master went through the streets of Jerusalem and along the shores of Galilee. Some might ask, Where did these men get their commission to go forth to the army, carrying bread for the body in one hand and the Bread of Life in the other? I believe they got it from the example of our Saviour Himself. We sent forth the Bible and other books, by the hands of men of burning zeal, not mere per- functory agents. There were ministers who came to us, and offered themselves for the work ; but we said, " No ; you have not succeeded at home, and you are not likely to succeed in the army." We wanted only men who were willing to put off the black coat and the white cravat, and would put on the army attire, and, if need be, would undertake to make with their own hands gruel for the soldiers. I will tell you what happened on one occasion. A Rev. Doctor of Divinity was engaged in making gruel for the soldiers, and was put- ting into the gruel something that would make it more palatable. Some of the soldiers were busily watching his movements, and one of them exclaimed, "Go it, Doctor; put some more of that stuff in, and THE FOURTH YEAE. 283 it will be the real Calvinistic gruel." In another case, a man saw a Rev. Doctor engaged in washing bloody shirts in a brook, and lie called out to him, " Doctor, what arc you doing?" The Doctor re- plied, "The shirts supplied to the army are exhausted, and also those of our own Commission. The wounded arc suffering from their stif- fened and clotted shirts, and I thought I might undertake to wash a few of them in the brook. Do you think I am wrong?" "Wrong!" said the other, "Oh, no. I never saw you walking so closely in the footsteps of your Divine Master before." These men have not only administered to the bodily wants of the soldiers, but to their moral, and chiefly to their spiritual necessities. They circulated upwards of eight millions of copies of knapsack books, including such works as Newman Hall's "Come to Jesus," and Mr. Eeid's "Blood of Jesus." The history of these books will never be written. They came hack to the families of the soldiers in America, many of them stained with their former owners' blood. They have become heir- looms of those families) and they will never be parted with. Besides these, there were eighteen million copies of our best religious news- papers issued to the army, fresh as they appeared from the press. The total receipts of the Commission were six and a quarter millions of dollars. The books, etc., were distributed by about five thousand unpaid agents. How did we get these agents? They got nothing for their labors. We would not employ any agents wdio wanted pay for their work, except a few permanent men to superintend the work. We have gone to wardens of a church and said, " We want your pastor to labor for us for a few months." We have, on one occasion at least, arrested the ministrations of the pulpit for the urgent de- mands of the field of conflict. And these men did get pay, pay far richer than was ever coined in any mint ; it was the "God bless you " of the dying soldier. It may be asked, " In this work of distributing the Bible, was there not wilful waste?" I am bold to say there was not. I have myself distributed many thousand copies of tin- Bible, and I never met with a refusal but once, and that was from a German infidel. Now I belong to that portion of young America which was born in Ireland, excuse me for that, — and 1 do not know what it is to give in. So 1 thought I would endeavor to take the German infidel by a flank movement. I called his attention to the beauty of the book. It 284 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. was very handsomely got up. I told him it was what was called < 'rom- well'a Bible, and I told him how Cromwell's soldiers had read this book, and how it enabled them to fight so vigorously ; but still I gained nothing by my flank movement. I was about to leave him, when I thought I would make another attempt. I asked him where he was from. "From Philadelphia." "Philadelphia! why that is my own city." He brightened up at this, and asked the street where I lived. I told him in such and such a street, and I said, " I am going bark there, and I expect to tell the result of my labors, in the largest Protestant Episcopal church in that city, on Sabbath evening next." Don't be alarmed, Episcopalians and Presbyterians, at the fact of a layman like myself being allowed to speak there. " Well," he said, "and what will you say?" "I shall tell them that I have been engaged for so long a time in distributing Bibles among our soldiers: that I never met with but one refusal, and that he was a soldier from our own city." "Well, and what more will yen say?" " Why, I shall tell them that I began to distribute Bibles this morn- ing at the White House," — a place somewhat like your Buckingham Palace, only not so fine. "And who was the first man to whom I offered a copy? Why, it was to President Abraham Lincoln. When I went to see the President he was writing, and when I handed him a copy of Cromwell's Bible he stood up, — and you know he was a very tall man and took a long time to straighten. He received the Bible, and made me a low bow, and thanked me; and now I shall have to go back and tell him that one of his soldiers, who was fight- ing his battles, refused to take the book which he had accepted so gladly." The German softened at once. He said, " Did the Presi- dent take the book? — well, then, I guess I may take one too." I must say, that in the distribution of copies of the Bible the refusals to receive them were not more than one in a thousand, and these were Roman Catholics, while I am glad to say that many of these gladly and thankfully received the Word of God. But was there any waste of the books so received? No, a soldier would part with any thing rather than his New Testament ; "and," said a little fellow, a soldier from Pittsburg, to his comrade, when the Union army was repulsed from the heights of Fredericksburg, when the rebels were pouring in shot and shell upon our retreating columns, " Joe," said he, " if it were not that the Testament given me by my THE FOURTH YEAH. 285 mother is in my knapsack, I would throw it away, but I can't do it." Wilful waste was, I believe, entirely unknown. I have been in cor- respondence with thousands of agents who have been engaged in this work of distribution ; and I have only heard of one case where a soldier wilfully threw away bis Bible. 1 have the copy with me here to-day ; and as my beloved brother, Baptist Noel, said thai the Word of God would never return to Him void, so I am here to say, that though this soldier, with a wickrd and diabolical heart, threw away his Testament in the streets of Memphis, that Testament was picked up by another soldier, himself also careless and wicked, hut who was led, from the reading of it, to the foot of the cross, where he found peace and joy. It was sent to the American Bible Society (the copy referred to was here exhibited), who treasure it, as a relic, or rather as a memento of the war. The Bible was not only instrumental in saving souls; there are hundreds of cases where it was also instrumental in saving the lives of the soldiers. Here is a copy (holding it up) which was published in England by Messrs. Eyre & Spottiswoode. That Testament has a history which, if it could speak, I might well remain silent. It ran the blockade ; it found its way to a soldier of the Southern army, who placed it in his hosom, and here is the hole which was made by a bullet, which, entering at the last chapter of the Revelation, pene- trated through to the first chapter of Matthew, and, grazing the outer cover, saved the man's life. There are hundreds of such ci. pics preserved in numerous families throughout America, and money could not purchase them. The desire to receive copies of the Word of God is not to be described. I stood on the top of an omnibus, in the midst of three thousand sol- diers, on a hill in Virginia, and they all clamored round me for books to read. A Delegate of the Commission visited the first Ten- nessee cavalry, and he wrote me a letter, the substance of which was : " Dear Brother Stuart, — I never bought a pack of cards but once, and I want to tell you the circumstances under which I bought them. I ciinic to a spot where I found four young men, — mere boys they were, and might be the sons of pious mothers, — and they were playing at cards. 1 said, ' Boys, I should like to make an exchange with you. I will give you copies of this beautiful edition of the New Testament in exchange for this pack of cards.' They exclaimed, ' That is just 28G ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. what we want. We are playing with these cards because time hangs so heavy on our hands in this dull camp-life. We have nothing to read. We are glad ] porationB, Philada. I'll. in General Collet tions, eti .. Philadelphia From [udivldnals, Pennn Fr ihun hes, Penna From Litdies' C. Com., Penna.. From Genei al ' lollei tions, tc, Pennsylvania i : om \ id So< ieties, Penna... From Fairs, etc, etc., Penna. From individuals in other States From Geuoral Collections in Hi- i SI ites From \i-l Societies in ol > ■ < ■ States From LadieB 1 C. C. in other -i ites !■ uiirches in other States I i Meetings, etc., in other States From Ladies' Hawaiian C.C. Sandm ■■ ii islands From other foreign counti E< b. ! i .in pj oceeds of sales of cfa Returned from Agencies Total $171 S5,42Q 12 229,012 62 3,197 48 3,819 22 i 658 59 1,322 in 21,868 85 I., Ml,; | 2,815 36 327 08 15,346 18 1,386 00 509 20 44,639 57 8,465 96 4,662 93 3,013 ::^ 6,04J i.m.: 91 4,790 29 1,756 13 5,515 61 G 1,688 73 12,968 90 9,199 •> 6,972 7 7 5,1 7 .■..KIT 74 7,738 37 ■ fi 2,079 27 22,087 96 1,943 32 1865. Dei .30, By cash paid as follows : For hospital supplies For publications Stationery for soldiers and sailors Tents, chapels, and chapel furniture Die! kitchen furniture u i| ■ at bora b, and othei BtOi h Drafts, Washington Igencj Drafts, Nashville and Loui villa Agencies Droll - < in poinl kgency .., Drafts, Richmond Agi in ) hi afts, Knri Monroe Agency Drafts, N. Carolina Agem j , Drafts,Horper's Ferry Agency Delegates' expenses Salai ies oi Pel I \ i mj Agents Salaries of Lady Manaj ■ i Diet-Kiti li- n- Salai ies oi Home Agents Meeting expenses.and travel' Ing expenses of Agenl .... Office expenses, postage, ad- ertising, incidentu li Counterfeit and um ui i - nt money Express, di nyage, labor, etc. Drafts, St. Louis Agency Drafts, Baltimore Agency By cash transferred to Geo. II. Stuart, .'"-. Patti r ion, Stephen Col well, John P. Crozer, and Matthew Simp- son, Trustees appointed by Executive Committee, to |m\ .ui debts due, or that may become due, and ill expenses thai may arise in closing affairs of the Com- mission, and to npply I tie remainder of Buch funds to the -]'ii iin.il and temporal benefit of those \i ho ai e, have been, or may bo Sol- diers and Sailors in the Ber- \ Ice "i the United States, in BUCh way,-- (IS tiny shall deem beBt 148,81" 28 172,690 49 10,760 S6 5,011 33 110 Tii 6,296 20 l 6 37 "7" 67 41 366 73 seo '.ii 1,877 59 769 mi 7,497 09 14,964 77 6,073 32 961 00 14,609 < 7 5,756 02 220 34 5,044 23 12,000 "ii 3,000 mi 10.770 93 -IT i A large proportion of these amounts were from soldiers and sailors. Having examined the foregoing account of Joseph P\tterso\, Esq.. Treasurer of the r. S. Chris- tum Commission, and the vouchers submitted therewith, and the corresponding Banh \.. its, and having had the Beveral additions mink- by a eaivfnl and c"iiii>rtciit ari'iimtatit, wo lin.l the whole i" !"■ correct, leaviug n balance in the Treasury on the 31st day ol January, 1866, oi ten thousand soven hundred aud seventy dollars and nlnetj three cents ($10,770.93), which was paid this day, Januarj 31, 1866 t to the following named Trustoes ! Goo. H. Stuart, Jos. Patterson, John P. Crozer, Stephen Col well, and Matthew Simpson, n. i>. ; leaving no balance in the hands of the Trea- surer, which finally closes his account. Horatio Gates Jones. Si i mi \ Colwjell. Philadelphia, January 31, 1866. John p. Crozer. 37 290 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. TABLE II. — CASH RECEIPTS. TRANSFERS, AND BALANCES OF CENTRAL OFFICE, BRANCHES, BASE OFFICES, AND ARMY AGENCIES, DURING 1S65. I'lIILADELPnU.. Albany Baltimore Bangor liatli Boston Brooklyn Buffalo Chicago Cincinnati Cleveland Detroit Ilarrisburg Hartford Indianapolis Milwaukee \ NUMBER AND VALUE OK I'Ai'KAHES »K DONATED STuKES AM' PI BLICA- TIONS, DURING 1865. 1'llll.W'Kirnl \ All'iiny Itiilli '• Bath, Me Boston Brooklyn Hull. I Chicago I iin Miliati Cleveland Detroit rial tford Indianapolis Louisville Milwaukee Nni.nl. V .1 New Bun en New York i' ol i.i Pittsburg Portland Ruchester Springfield, M isa St. I - St. Paul Troj i in. i Washington Totals. i \ I., i ol n.. .n. Package* of >!,.,, Hi- ll ll. III. .1 5,818 "2.447 lln In:: 3,446 1511 276 HI 492 :;i 1,048 163 1:::, 7,061 32 2,849 : I" "l'Jl27 25,672 11. N tii'i "I ll.. ,1,1 Publloi Distributed. 8,852 ::.mi 47 511 51 i 161 '.17 I".. 38 1,182 in. N 1 1 Package "i Donated Storoa. 5/>52 1.1 in 52 560 54 747 58 269 3,114 :;?» 275 173 152 ::l 1 048 88 411 121 4,970 50 4S 1111 934 1:: ::» 97 40 14,841 IV. Number " f Boxes 1 1 >..ii ii .1 ruiiii. hi 11 1,.; "lie \ VI 1 . Value i.r DOI ' I 1. .nil. '1 Mm. Publlcat'ns. (119.746 Jl 11,200 mi 108,025 ill I, in 98 13,4511 mi 289,602 7 1 ."1.." n \ 12.'. 1,487 5" ,-ini., 1 5.500 "" 42::., 'n In 4,000 im l.i.i n CO 1 77 ; ml 12.125 (in 425 im I, - .1 B2 1 S 10 $8,400 15 17 1.41 4 (I 45,950 no ' 1,760 ml 3,024 nil 1,200 im 600 00 5,512 11 4.225 nil 150 no 1.27.1 ml 3,450 n" 250 00 1 624 -1 mi 957 7:: ^:;,ii2i; 26 TABLE IV,— TOTAL OF PUBLICATIONS DISTRIBUTED IX 1865. SHOWING GRANTS OF AMERICAN ISIBLE SOCIETY, AND THE QUANTITIES PI R CHASED AT EACB OFFICE. offices. 1. inn,. 11' . 1. Ami. Hi I.I,- Socletj . 11. Hi inn Bo 111 Knapsack Book*, in 1 ..1 Popi IV. Bound l.i linn v . v. M • .III. Mil I'lllll \ 1 tfe VII. .1 Tract*. 1^7.11" 300 1,869 1. 122,811 1,595,06! 25,::;2 16,580 14.721 468,083 20,668 Inn 184.278 119,699 7.1. 1 144,662 98,250 150 1 ,2511 II, Inn 4,500 8J828 8,678 174.1211 1,000 1,876 3,689.746 2. nun 56,800 22,800 3,500 410,000 mi: 236 6,000 18,119 , .1 161,508 615,485 6, 7,616 62,415 1 11 ::. Um 25,800 600 1::; [so 91 300 2,930 60,300 T'S.7211 Brooklyn S.llllll 2,765 IV. 117 1.," 515 20,000 9,940 200 1 I'll , ., 1 ji ■ in L.- i.i 8,635 12,608 5,810 0,862 ::4>2I 1., VI . 18,490 30,865 ... [6,936 896 57.'i2il 6,286 238,734 56,928 ., 1 ■ 14.9111 126 I'H 2' 1 525 2.1 Ml 4' 121'" 328,879 179 1 ,1 2,611,028 169,781 266,180 - ■ 11 1 Army of the Mississippi. Distribution was throngli the Memphis pible Society. Of|0 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. TABLE V.— DELEGATES COMMISSIONED IN 1865, AND THEIR WORK.- PERMAKENT LABORERS, ETC. OFFICES. i. Delegates 1 ! is siouod. II. Numliei- in Rlold, Janu- ary 1,1866. in. Aggregate 111 T Of days' en Ice of Delegates. IV. Diet Kitchen Lady Man- age! - i in ployed. V. Army Agents em- ployod. VI. Paid I . hi ■ employed in Home 'Work. 192 3 27 6,924 100 64S 78 41 16 6 1 1 247 62 31 61 155 ."i 33 6 35 11 8 8,646 1.721 1,488 2,397 6, ."I 186 1.320 170 1,307 44s 1.121 1,845 6,720 1,243 1,175 M 4,764 211 90 1.449 600 1 3 4 4 5 1 4 1 6 1 1 ] 2 •? 6 Louisville 41 3 4;', 21 30 40 2 39 6 4 86 9 2 Peoria 1 9 1 7 6 1 1 10 1 22 60 3 1 1 1 1,079 29 49.9S2 157 10S 63 TABLE VI. — GENERAL SUMMARY OF WORK AND DISTRIBUTIONS FOR 1862, 1863, 1864, AND 1865. l'ARTICTI.ARS. I. 1865. II. 1864. III. 1863. IV. 1S62. V. Totuls Tup 1862, 1868, l-iil, and 1865; 1,079 49,982 31,624 828,879 379,150 2,011,1128 159,781 286,180 6,818,994 2,492,478 7. V.I 2.217 78.809 47.Hi:'. 669,694 489.247 4,826,676 93,872 846,586 7,990,758 18,681,342 3,698 1,189 41 .lis 12,648 466,715 371,859 1,254,591 89,718 120,492 2.9:11.409 ll.H7li.722 8,285 374 11,593 3,691 102.560 180,697 115,757 8,460 34,653 384,781 10,953,706 830 4,859 L81 562 |,i.i.n,;i', 1,466,748 1,370.953 Aggregate Number <>i (lays of Delegates' son ice Boxi >ni Stores mill Publications Bibles I'estaments, nud portions hi Sci Iptun - distributed .... [vimpsni 1. Hooks, in paper <>i flexible covers 8,808,052 298,816 Religious Weekly aud Monthlj Novvsnnpcrs Pages "t Tracts 767,861 i 126.002 39,104,243 8,672 Soruions preached by Deli al e Prayer-Meetings beld bj Delo- 77.744 l.ettcrs written by Delegates.... 92,321 Note. — Therowere also distributed, by the various Branches and Army Agencies, during the war. 7,067,000 shoots ol paper, aud 7,060,000 envelopes. THE FOURTH YEAR. 293 TABLE VII. — GENEII.W, SUMMARY OF RECEIPTS AND VALUES FOR 1m;i\ LS63, 1 si; i. ANh L865. (•All rU'l'I.AKS. Cash Receipts al I lontral and Brand. Offices Value "i Sfoi es d ti d t'> < .en tral and Itmv b Offr i s Value of Publications donated to Central mid Branch Offices. \ aluo "i Si i Iptures donated bj Amoi !■ an Bible Si j \ nine ol Si i Iptures donated i>\ British and i Ign Bible S iv Value "i" 11 \ inn Books donat< d by Army Committee, Young Men - i Im Istitui Usociation, ' i Value "i Delegates 1 sen ices \ alue of Itaih uad, Steamboat, and ol i" i Ti unsportation fa- i llities Val t Toll nipli lacilities, from Maine to Califui nia \ alue "i Rents ol W ai eho.u >■- and ' >ffices To1 ila I. I--..,.- $828,857 70 1.141.1)07 73 88,026 26 r.j;:sj 66 1,962 84 80,718 69 ■ Mi 12,828 on 8,800 00 ■ B8 11,297,758 28 i i - 3J 81,296 32 72,114 S3 1,788 06 169,920 00 i"..;' 26 i I , 1868,239 29 888,829 07 l ,"7i 50 1,677 79 14,211 ".::- IV. 1862, 140,160 29 142,150 00 10 86 00 .'i 6 13,68 8,660 00 $231,266 29 1862, 1868, 1864, hi I I < 12,624,512 56 2,839,44 ' 17 1 1 1 322 58 179,824 09 1,67' 8,7! 344,413 69 218,00 . 00 51,81! i 86,291,107 68 • This is tit. u ,,i u nt r, .in i, ii in ilis only, ns the active campaign closed in .April, with the fall of Richmond and the surrender ol Lfle. Note. —There are Iwo items in these tables thai may be considered repre- sentative iit- hi-, one of the home work and the other of the fit Id work of the Com- mission, Delegates and Donations. A comparisi f these for the several years will besl mark the growth of the Commission, rapid and continuous to the end. 1 luring the first yeai of the t lommission, 356 Delegates were commis- sioned; the year following, 1,207; the third year, 2,217 ; in the four months of the fourth year, preceding the close of the war, L,02S Delegates were sent out, which rate, continued through the year, would have given n> 3,069. Tims, reckoning the Delegates by the hundred, for more ready comparison, they show :tn annual growth in the ratio of 3, 12,22,30. I" the lir-i year the receipts amounted to $231,000 ; in the sei 1 year they were ^ '. 1 1 r. . s : : 7 ; in the third i ar they were $2,882,3 17 ; fr January t" May, 1865, one-third of a year of active campaign, they were $2,228,105, which rate, continued twelve months, would have given, for tliis last year, $6,684,815. The donations, counted by the hun- dred thousand, mark an in. i. ase in the ratio of '-', 9, 28, 66. CHAPTER VI. AUXILIARIES. No representation of the methods and achievements of the Christian Commission would be satisfactory or just that failed to mention the operations of its chief auxiliaries. The spontaneity and freedom of the entire movement are well illustrated in the origin and organi- zation of these auxiliaries, and in the nature of their con- nection with the central Commission. No two of them were organized upon precisely the same plan, and there was great variety in the details of their methods, but their unity of aim and spirit was complete, and their co- operation could scarcely have been more harmonious or more efficient. In one place, as Chicago, a vigorous committee of the local Young Men's Christian Associa- tion preceded the formation of the Commission by months of sanitary and religious labor among the soldiers at home and in the field, and as soon as opportunity offered they readily became the Commission's representative in their community, and used the Commission as their medium of communication with the army. In another place, as St. Louis, the work was begun by individual effort, and afterward j)assed into the hands of a local organization ; this ultimately becoming an auxiliary of the Commission. Again, as at Pittsburg, a society which was fully organ- 294 AUXILIARIES. 295 ized and acting as the agency of an extensive community, was made, by their own vote and the acceptance of the central Executive Committee, a Branch Commission. Or. as at Boston, a resident member of the Commission was its official and active representative, while the Young .Men's Association was in hearty co-operation. Or finally, as in several places, alter the benevolence of a community had for a while reached the army through various chan- nels, without any organized connection with the Commis- sion, an auxiliary was constituted by the formal action of the central Committee. For all that makes these annals worthy of preservation, many of these Branches are not less entitled to commemoration than the main Commission itself. In the gratuitous and devoted ser- vices of those who sustained tin' organizations and per- formed the principal share of the work, as well as in the economy and efficiency of the management, there was no distinction among the several societies, except such as might arise from peculiarity of circumstances or position. Prominent business men in all the large cities, — men representing every evangelical denomination of Chris- tians, — gave their time, influence, and business facilities to the work of the Commission, nor did they grow weary or withdraw until the work was done. None of these labors enter at any point into the financial exhibits of the Commission, except that they are absent from the expense account. They deserve at least this general notice, to suggest, in connection with the gratuitous labors of the thousands of Delegates, how freely this blessed charily was served. It should also be remarked that the discounts received by the Commission in its vast pur- chases, throughout the country, supplied manifoldly all 296 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. the incidental expenses of working its machinery, — so that the business men of the nation were not only large contributors to the Commission's funds, but enabled it thus indirectly to distribute the nation's bounty without cost. Each of the chief auxiliaries was the centre of a large number of smaller tributaries, — the town and village aid societies. These smaller societies were characterized oftentimes by energy and economy not less than those of the more prominent organizations. Here the women were usually the chief actors, and not seldom the work was carried forward without a penny of pecuniary ex- pense. Without pretending to entire accuracy, the order in which the following societies are mentioned is that of the date of organization. WASHINGTON CITY, D. C. The early work at this place has keen already described in part. Previous to the organization of the Christian Commission, and mainly through tin 1 agency of those who were afterward identified with it, large quantities of reading-matter were sent from this point into the army. Immediately after the meeting of the Commission in Washington, December, 1861, an auxiliary Army Com- mittee was appointed and rooms secured. The Com- mittee, after two or three changes made during the fol- lowing year, consisted of William Ballantyne, ( liairman; M. 11. Miller, member of the Commission; Rev. John Thrush; X. Richards. The Young Men's Christian Association was also active in co-operation. Mr. Ballantvne communicates, under date of January A1IX I MA RIES. WASHINGTON. '-".'T 22, L866, the following narrative of events connected with their early operations. It shows the cordial rela- tions am! co-operation of the several parties engaged in those preliminary movements: — After a week's isolation from the outer world t following the attack upon ilic Massachusetts and Pennsylvania troops in Balti- more, April 1!), 1861), oilier troops began to c e in, and many of them not supplied with the Word of God. The Washington City Bible Society asked the Young Men's Christian Association to under- take the labor of distribution, winch they cordially did, and appointed ten of the most active memhers, who districted the city and most faithfully attended to their duly. The troops at that time were all quartered inside the city, in the largest buildings which could he pro- cured. While this work of Bible supply was being attended to, Mr. Brought of the Boston Tract Society, came to Washington, to see how their publications could he best distributed to the soldiers. He called upon me just when some of the Bible agents were in for their supply. We stateil to him our mode of operations, and he at once said. "This is just what I want. Will you, in addition, distribute our little 1 ks, prepared especially fin' the soldiers?" We answered, " ^ es." Promptly and liberally the hooks came along, and were, m the way 1 have mentioned, carried to the men for whom they were designed, gratefully received and eagerly read. Supplies of reading matter wn-e also received from the New York Tract Society, Massa- chusetts S. S. Society, and others. The troops were moved out of the city and across the Potomac, where they could not he so easily reached, although some of the young men did follow them and keep up the work. We then sought to make the acquaintance of all the chaplains, and inform them where a supply of Testaments and reading could be had for their men. Thus things continued, until alter the battle of Bull Hun i Sunday, July 21, L86] I, when a delegation from the Young .Men's Christian Association of New York came to Washington, to render what assist- ance they COUld to the army. They were most excellent and devoted men. Mr. Vincent Culver remained after the others had gone home, 38 298 ANNALS OF 111 I. ( IIKIST1AX COMMISSION. and while thus engaged felt the necessity of a inure general organiza- tion, which would represent the Young Mien's Christian Associations of tlic country, and be the medium through which the church could pour out its benefactions for our noble defenders. The suggestion of Mr. Colyer was cordially endorsed by the Washington Association, and a circular was issued urging the calling of a Convention to organize a Christian Commission. Geo. EI. Stuart, as chairman of the confederated associations, issued the call, the ( invention was held in the city of New Fork, and the Christian Commission organized. While Mr. Colyer's proposition was being considered, and before the Commission eot fairly underway, the work had so grown that our store could no longer contain the amount of material for use. The General < i-overnment, being applied to, granted the use of a room in the Post-< >ffice building, which, after the organization of the United States Christian Commission, was, by vote of the Association, turned over to it. This, however, soon being found too small, the whole material was removed to the large hall oftheYoung Men's Christian Association. It was the room thus granted to the Association in which Mr. Alvord, of the Boston Tract Society, attended personally to the distribution of their own material. The Young Men's Christian Association of Washington cares little about the honor of being first in the tield. They were on the ground, and it was only their duty. The Association hesitated not to stand tine to the nation's cause, although some of our members left us and went to their own place. The Commission encountered peculiar difficulties in Washington. A large portion of the population, espe- cially in the earlier stages of the war, was in sympathy with the Southern cause 3 and a practical indifference characterized many others. The sojourners there, always numerous, in pursuit mainly of political or personal ends, did nut care to identity themselves with any benevolent, least of all with tiny religious, movement. That there were active Christian workers in all these classes it is gratifying to testify, and they increased alike in numbers A ix I i.i \ i; i i:s. — wash i n< ;ton. 2! »'. I and activity as the society of the Capita] became purged of disloyalty. And then Washington, inure than any other city, was regarded as common ground by tin' mul- titudinous solicitors of public favor ami patronage. All the national interests being represented there, and its inhabitants being so largely made up of persons from all parts of the country, the various sectional appeals for aid found opportunity for their advocacy, lint tin' Chris- tian Commission had warm and earnest friends among the pastors and members of the several churches; no| a i'ew of the ladies proved themselves cHicieiil helpers; and substantial evidences of interest were received from Government officials of all ranks and departments of the public service, and from many private citizens. Presi- dent Lincoln more than once contributed to its funds. During the progress of its work the Commission received from Washington the sum of $25,039.62, and other dona- tions to the value of $26,620, — being a total of $51,659.62. Washington was the centre of a vast field for the operations of the Commission. It was always the near or remote base for the armies acting against Richmond, and was itself occupied or surrounded by numerous forti- fications, camps, military prisons, hospitals, rests, etc. Alexandria, seven miles helow Washington, and con- nected with it by a thickset line of forts and camps, was regarded as a suburb of the Capital, and duplicated its need of labor. In all these places where the soldiers were gathered, sick or well, the Delegates of the Com- mission were daily visitors, with their benevolent and timely ministrations for both body and soul. A- has been noticed, Washington was, early in the war, divided into districts by the Young .Men's .Wo- 300 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. ciation, and each district assigned to a committee, so that there should he no lack of religions visitation among the hospitals and camps. A missionary, Rev. O. P. Pitcher, was employed, the chief part of whose salary was afterward assumed by the Commission, who gave himself with constancy and faithfulness to labor for the soldiers, and continued until after the operations of the Commission were closed. He went mainly among those who were destitute of chaplains and of religious advan- tages, as the teamsters, quartermasters' men, prisoners, guards, detached squads, and those who were detained for a few hours at the Soldiers' Rest. From the frequent changes taking place among these classes, the number of men reached was very great, — not less than 270,000 passing through the Soldiers' Rest alone in a single year. As indicating the kind and amount of labor performed, we may take Mr. Pitcher's summary for three years: — Scriptures distributed "2s, 177 Religious papers 155,898 Books and pamphlets 11,855 Pages of Tracts 1,773,261 Religious services held 1,498 Converts and inquirers 587 Visits, exclusive of meetings 1,181 Miles traveled ill the work 5,240 These figures imperfectly suggest the labors of one man, and in the cities of Washington and Alexandria, with the intermediate and contiguous field, there were from ten to fifty Delegates constantly employed. It is impossible to set forth their work by statistics, for while the number and money value of the articles distributed may be given, wdio can estimate the influence of an earn- est religious meeting, of words of comfort spoken in private, of a visit to the cot of the dying, of the letter written to distant friends, of the numberless deeds of Al'XILIARIES. WASHINGTON. 301 thoughtful kindness, ending only with the Christian burial? In Alexandria there were often as many as forty sermons preached on a Sabbath by the Delegates, and a proportionate amount of other labor. The great military camp near Arlington Heights de- serves an entire chapter, but can receive only a few sen- tences. At first it was Camp Convalescent, where the convalescing soldiers were gathered from the various hospitals to make room for fresh cases, and wait until their strength was sufficient for duty in the field. After- ward it was Camp Distribution, the general rendezvous and camp of instruction for soldiers in transitu. The men were continually changing, and the numbers varied from one thousand to fifteen or twenty thousand. It is estimated that during the years I860 and 1,S(>4 there were more than 200,000 soldiers in this one camp. The Commission's work began with the beginning of the camp, and continued until it was broken \\]>. The small tents at first used as a chapel gave place to a wooden structure, — erected by the soldiers from lumber furnished by the ( lommission, — and this was successively enlarged until it would hold more than a thousand men. Even then it was often found too small to accommodate all who came to the religious meetings, and the numbers standing outside, about the openings, were sometimes equal to those within. It was the scene of a continuous revival. While visitation by the Delegates was constant in the barracks, at the hospital, ami at the neighboring forts, meetings were held daily, two or three times a day, at the chapel. Stated evenings in each week were de- voted tu meetings for temperance, literary exercises, etc. During the year L864, in the cam]) and at the six nearest 302 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. forts, " more than 700 sermons were preached, with the accompanying exercises of prayer and praise, and more than '.too prayer-meetings were held, in which the sol- diers took an active and most acceptable part." Of the same year it is said, "Many thousands were awakened to feel their need of a Saviour, and to ask for the prayers of Christians ; and we believe that thousands have been born of the Spirit, and brought into the kingdom of (iod's dear Son. Evening' after evening, twenty, thirty, forty, fifty, and sometimes a hundred, have risen at a time, to be specially remembered in prayer." On one occasion at least the number was two hundred. A "Christian Brotherhood" was established, in which many were enrolled who had already made public profession of their Christian faith, and to which many more were united by baptism. The Lord's Supper was administered on the first Sunday in each month. 1 There were other points within this district scarcely interior in the interest and results of their religions labors to the camp just mentioned, but what has been given must stand as representative of all. The gathering of the great army at Washington, in the summer of 1SG5, for their final "muster-out," — General Sherman's troops having joined the forces of the East, — furnished a fitting close to the work of the Commission among them. Large supplies of under- clothing and of anti-scorbutics were distributed to Gen- 1 The Christian Commission, by official action, disclaimed all exercise of ecclesiastical functions, avowing that its Delegates and Agents, as such, had no more authority for administering the ordinances of the church than tin- the ordaining of a clergyman. Much, however, was necessarily left to the discre- tion of the Delegates themselves, and as matter of fact the ordinances were frequently administered by ministers of various denominations. A.XJX I U A i: I ES. — WASH ] X( m >x. ■ !< >' ! era] Sherman's men, — "potatoes and onions by the thousand bushels, and hundreds of barrels of cucumber pickles," — they being in peculiar need alter their long march across the country. And throughoul the army, in their encampments near the city, the Delegates pitched their tents again, — "holding preaching services and prayer-meetings, visiting systematically through the regiments, brigades, and divisions, talking with the men, and supplying them with religious reading, and such hospital stores as were needed.*' The active work of the Commission in this district elosed with the month of August, 1865, excepl thai the office in Washington was kept open a little longer. The hospitals were emptied and the regiments dispersed, — and the Commission, closing in behind the returning Columns, saw them safely home. The Commission was served livable and faithful men. Those who were in more responsible charge of the work, — F. F. Shearer, II. P. San ford, Rev. S. L. Bowler, Rev. .}. J. Abbott, at Washington; Rev. C. P. Lyford, Rev. Edward Hawes, Rev. J. 1'. Fisher, at (amp Con- valescent; Rev. ( ). C. Thompson, at Alexandria; Rev. ( ). R. Pitcher, and Rev. J. C. Kin gsley, as missionaries, — should be especially named. Mr. William Ballantyne, who generously gave of his time and means to the Com- mission, had the oversight of the entire work, and in good part superintended its business Interests, not only iii the district, but in the armies operating against Rich- mond. How great these interests were, the tables of receipts and disbursements' will partially indicate. 'The reference here and throughout tlii- chapter, to "statistical tables," is to those which are given in the closing chapti c of the I k. 304 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. PHILADELPHIA. Philadelphia was interested in the Christian Commis- sion from its organization, and was one of its most con- stant and most generous contributors. An Army Com- mittee of the Young Men's Christian Association was organized, as has been stated elsewhere, July 4, 1861. Its membership was somewhat changed from year to year, but for the greater portion of the war H. N. Thissell was Chairman, and Thomas Tolman, Secretary. Upon the formation of the Commission this Committee at once became co-operative with it, and by a resolution passed February 16, 1863, became more closely related as an auxiliary. This Committee established a system of Sunday evening meetings in behalf of the Commis- sion, by which almost every church in the city and the adjoining communities was reached. Very much was thus done to sustain and guide public opinion, and to keep up the general interest and enthusiasm to the last. The Committee also maintained a constant visitation of the hospitals and camps in and around the city, — there 1 icing on their list, at the height of the war, twenty-five of the former and six or eight of the latter. By re- quest of the Governor and the State Surgeon-General, there was kept at the rooms of the Association a record of all the sick and disabled Pennsylvania soldiers in the hospitals of the district. This record, which finally contained more than fifty thousand names, was of great service in answering with promptness and accuracy the numerous incpiiries that came from anxious friends. A generous donation of several hundred tons of coal, made by the coal oj)erators of Schuylkill county, to the needy families of absent or disabled Philadelphia soldiers, was A UX I LIAB I ES. — BOSTON. ■ !< > "> freely transported by tlie Reading railroad, received by the Chairman of the Commission, and found the last link in this chain of benevolence in its free distribution to tlie worthy recipients by the hands of the Array Committee. Mr. Joseph Parker was the active agenl of the ( lommittee in all these labors of Christian charity, and contributed materially to their success. The nearness of this Committee to the Central Office of the Commission prevented it from becoming as dis- tinctly conspicuous as it might otherwise have been. The above brief statement, however, will indicate the value and extent of its usefulness, as an auxiliary of the Commission and as an agent of local relief. It should he added, that the first delegation sent to the army by the Commission was mainly a deputation from this Committee and their fellow-members of the Association. BOSTON. December 2, 1861, the Boston Young Men's Chris- tian Association, at a special meeting, received the report of their delegation to the convention that formed the Christian Commission. Upon hearing the report it was Resolved, That this Association approves of the object proposed by the Christian Commission, and will aid it so far as may seem practicable. This resolution may not indicate much enthusiasm at the outset, and the Association could not divine the labors that were to come upon it during the terrible years then about to open, but the pledge was fully re- deemed. At the same meeting an Army Committee 39 300 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. was appointed, consisting of Edward S. Tobey (Chair- man), Joseph Story (Treasurer), J. Sullivan Warren, Jacob Sleeper, R. Sturgis, Jr., which Committee served unchanged throughout the war. L. P. Rowland, Jr., as agent of the Committee, had charge of the receipt ami forwarding of stores. With the exceptions of Western Massachusetts, Con- necticut, and Rhode Island, New England found a natural and convenient centre in Boston, and hence the Committee in Boston acted for that entire section. Mr. Charles Demond, a member of the Commission, and of the central Executive Committee, had oversight of the work, neglecting his own affairs that he might devote the greater part of his time to the Commission's in- terests. The Army Committee was hearty and constant in its co-operation. As there were few. military hospitals or camps in their vicinity, — the policy of the Govern- ment being to keep these at a less distance from the seat of war, — and as the local needs of the navy were at- tended to hy other members of the Association, 1 the labors of the Committee were chiefly given to the col- lection of funds and supplies for the Central Office at Philadelphia. How well this work was done the sta- tistical tables will show. Local organizations were established in the principal towns throughout New England; through the use of printed circulars and newspaper appeals, and the voluntary service of returned 'The receiving-ship at the' Charlestown navy-yard, where many thousands enlisted into the navy during the war, was regularly visited by members of the Association, under the general direction of Mr. Rowland. Meetings were held every night, and distributions of reading-matter and stores were frequently made. The ship was the scene of almost continuous religious revival. The camps at Reidville and at Oalloupe's Island were similarly remembered. MXII.I AKIKS. — BOSTON. 307 Delegates, in holding meetings and making visitations, almost every community was reached; in many churches the fourth Sunday evening of each month was ohserved as a concert of prayer for the army; and the supply of resources was continuous and large. In the number of Delegates commissioned (799) and the amount of money contributed ($330,197.86) during the full period of the (' mission's operations, Boston was in advance of any other Branch; in stores and publications donated ( 1,032 packages at an estimated value of $494,200) she was just behind Pittsburg and Cincinnati. The Boston Go rittee also issued an admirable army hymn book, with tunes, which was much sought after and widely circulated. On three occasions, — after the battle of Gettysburg in 1863, after the battles of the Wilderness in 1864, and alter the tall of Richmond in 1865, — Mr. Demond, Mr. Tobey, and other members of the Army Committee, waited iii the Merchants' Exchange to receive the offer- ings of the people for their suffering defenders. No one was solicited for a contribution; by the courtesy of the Superintendent of the Exchange, these men posted their telegrams from the Central Office and the battle- fields upon the bulletin hoard, kept their station at a convenient table, and received what was freely handed them. The receipts were, respectively, $35,000, $60,000, $30,000.' And in addition, the general interest in the work of the Commission was thus increased, and con- tributions from other sources were multiplied. Few scenes are more worthy of commemoration than this of converting the busy place and season of trade into OCCa- 1 See p. 'J'.:;. 308 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. sious of patriotic benevolence, and nothing furnishes a better index of the true and permanent feeling of Boston and New England toward the men who were fighting to perpetuate and extend the blessings of liberty. New England did not forget either her honor or her respon- sibility in the hour of trial, and these proofs that she did not forget are her memorial before the world. CHICAGO. How promptly the Chicago Young Men's Christian Association engaged in patriotic and religious labors, at the outbreak of the war, has been previously noticed. They were active in promoting enlistments, and recruited four companies for the Seventy-second Illinois regiment, under the requisition of July, 1861, — having also had a number of representatives among the 75,000 volun- teers first called out. In their disbursements the Army Committee of this Association includes $758, especially given for "recruiting soldiers." The Army Committee, of which John Y. Farwell was Chairman, and B. F. Jacobs, Secretary, during the war, was appointed in the early summer of 1801. Previously to this the "Com- mittee on Devotional Meetings," — Messrs. D. L. Moody and B. F. Jacobs, — began religious meetings in Camp Douglas, and had published a soldiers' hymn book to facilitate their work. These meetings rapidly increased in number and interest, "until as many as eight or ten were held each evening, and hundreds were led to seek Christ." Camp Douglas was a permanent camp, having in connection with it one of the principal military prisons. A chapel was erected by the Christian Com- mission, a reading-room maintained, and later in the AUXILIARIES. — CHICAGO. ::<)'. i war a diet kitchen was established. An encouraging and fruitful religious interest was almost continuously prevalent. The clergymen and laymen of the city readily responded to a call for co-operation. Their first army Delegate, Mr. Moody, was sent out by the Com- mittee in October, 1861, to visit their former associates, who were then on duty in Kentucky. In such service, therefore, Chicago was probably second only to New- York. The Chicago Association joined in the Conven- tion that formed the Christian Commission, and became at once auxiliary to it through the Army Committee already organized, which afterward took the name of The Northwestern Branch. Their Chairman was made a constituent member of the Commission. Their first year's report shows them first among similar Committees, as to money expended and meetings held among the soldiers. The home field of the Branch was limited by the organization of other auxiliaries within territory that would otherwise have found its centre at Chicago. Peoria and St. Louis both operated in Illinois, and the districts of Indianapolis and Milwaukee left but a narrow Strip between them. All therefore that remained to Chicago was a small fraction of her own State (about three-twelfths) and the northern half of Iowa. This doubtless secured the better cultivation of the whole Held, hut it diminished the financial exhibit of Chicago. There were also for a while influences at work, — in part her misapprehension of the necessity that the Commis- sion should have entire control of its own stores, and in pari her readiness to CO-operate practically with other societies, and yield to their measures and plans, — that 310 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. kept the receipts of the Chicago Branch, especially in stores, much lower than they should have heen. But these influences were largely overcome, as her closing- returns will show, — remembering that her home field was then at the smallest. This Branch was among the first to appreciate the importance of Cairo as a point for Christian labor, being there able to reach the thousands of troops continually moving to or from the Southwestern armies. A build- ing was erected in 1864, at a cost of about $3,000, upon ground whose use was generously given by the Illinois Central Railroad, and all departments of the Commis- sion's labors were vigorously carried forward. The supervision of this work afterward passed into the hands of the Committee at Peoria, and was finally, November 1, 1805, transferred to the Committee at St. Louis. Chi- cago united with other Western auxiliaries, as has been noticed, in caring for the troops along the line of the Mississippi river, — not a few of their men, however, per- forming service in other parts of the army. After the surrender of the rebel armies and the disbanding of our own, in the early summer of 1865, while the Commission was closing up its work, Chicago was enabled to give assistance at several points which, by the continued pres- ence of troops or new necessity for them, could not be at once abandoned. Nashville was thus aided, through the agency of General Fisk, and St. Louis was helped in caring for the troops in Texas and on the Plains. Timely pecuniary means for these supplementary labors were received through the courtesy of the managers of the " Soldiers' Home and Sanitary Fair," who generously shared their receipts with the Chicago Committee of the AUXILIARIES. — ST. LOUIS. 311 Christian Commission. Work in Texas was continued until the spring of L866, and it is a pleasanl and strik- ing coincidence that the last two Chicago Delegates to return from the field were the first minister of the gospel ever located in that city, Rev. Jeremiah Porter, and his venerable wife. The Chicago Committee did much for the comfort of soldiers on their way to their homes in the Northwest, and for those who congregated in the city to seek employ- ment. In conjunction with the Sanitary Commission a Bureau of Employment was organized, to which the Army ( iommittee contributed, in all, #3,000, and through which more than 1,400 men were furnished with situa- tions, "at an expense to the Bureau of less than one dollar each." ST. LOUIS. An Army Committee was appointed by the St. Louis Young .Men's Christian Association, December 10, 1861, with E. D. Jones as chairman. The work undertaken was mainly local, for which there was great demand. 1 St. Louis was within the seat of war at the West, and was the headquarters of large numbers of troops. Pre- viously to the organization of this Committee, Mr. Mel nly re ami others had labored systematically and efficiently, as elsewhere related, among the soldiers, so that the first soldiers to cross the Mississippi were wei- 1 The duties ofthia Committee, as designated in the resolution appointing ii. were "to visit soldiers in camps and hospitals, hold religious meetings a ng 1 1 1 • 1 1 1 . and distribute such reading-matter as can In' procured for the purp — ." Weekly prayer-meetings were at cur,- i imenced in Benton, Schofield, ami Alexander Barracks ; an. I in Fifth Street, Lawson, t '• I Samaritan, and Marine Hospitals, The Committee were assisted in the distribution of reading-matter i'\ iiijmv ladies of the city. 312 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. cdincd by Christian friends, and with supplies, more or less abundant, of religious reading. These independent labors were continued until September, 1862, when the Committee was re-organized, taking the title of Western Army Committee, and Mr. Mclntyre became identified with it. Until the business enlarged beyond the capa- city of Ids store to accommodate it, Mr. Mclntyre acted as Depositary, and freely furnished room for its publi- cations and sanitary supplies. A year later, September 28, L863, the name of the Committee was still further changed to the St. Louis Branch of the United States Christian Commission. January 1, L864, Mr. Jones having resigned, Mr. Isaac S. Smyth, who had been a mem her of the Committee from the beginning, was chosen chairman. At the close of that year, December 30, he was succeeded by Mr. Mclntyre. During the most im- portant portion of the history of this Branch, that is, from January, lSlil, Ivlwin Ticknor was Treasurer, and J. II. Parsons, Corresponding Secretary. As above stated, St. Louis was the centre of a large and necessitous army field. The numerous camps and hospitals in and around the city, and throughout the State, furnished large demands for reading-matter. A general and judicious distribution was made through systematic correspondence with the chaplains and others, and occasional visitations by Delegates. The early policy of the Committee does not seem to have favored much attention to sanitary supplies, for which the Western Sanitary Commission, the Ladies' Union Aid Society. and State organizations, made more exclusive provision. And it i> pleasant to record the spirit of fraternal and courteous co-operation which was continually manifest AUXILIARIES. — ST. LOUIS. 313 among these societies of kindred aims. More than once or twice the Western Sanitary Commission showed its substantial good-will toward the Christian Coin mission, as when, for example, upon an appeal for hooks, in 1864, they turned over to the St. Louis Branch thirty camp libraries; and again, in L865, they placed at the disposal of the same Branch many thousand dollars' worth of stores. Similar illustrations might he given of the action of several of the Western State Sanitary Commissions. lint the experience of the Christian Commission was confirmed by that of its several Branches, that sanitary supplies, in its own possession and under its own control, were essentia] to the successful performance of its more spiritual work. In ministering to soldiers the cases were numerous where the only thing a Christian would dare to do was to ivvd the Sufferer Or hind up his wounds, and not to have then at command a bandage or a piece of bread was not only to he guilty of failure in meeting an emergency, hut it was to compromise the influence and usefulness of himself and his society. The religious trad, or the word of admonition and encouragement, given to a victim of the battle-field, after his body had been carefully washed, and i'n\, and dressed, and laid upon a clean pillow, was like the exhortation of Chrisl to the wretched man whom he had healed. 1 So the niis- 1 The fire! Annual Report of the Commission gives an illustration in point: " M i J. describes the garret of the old Harrison manison, :ii Harrison's Land- ing, with i(> eighty-five men Btowed away under the scorching roof. He says, their boot! were w hardened by the int< nse heal thai they had to cu( them off with a knife, in order to bathe their feet. The attendants refused i" work there. The Delegates undertook to do what they could. They prepared buckets oi cool, nice lemonade, and took them u|p on the stain leading to the garret; the stairs were so narrow thai only one could ascend al a time. Leaving the •it) 314 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. take early and readily corrected itself, and at St. Louis, as elsewhere, the practice became established of gathering and distributing hospital and other sanitary stores, — constantly purchasing them in large quanti- ties, besides using all that were donated, — as an essen- tial though secondary characteristic of the Commission's work. In 18G3 the St. Louis Branch was made the general distributing agency for all the troops along the Missis- sippi river, as far South as to the northern boundary ill' Louisiana, — that is, for the armies operating West of the departments of the Ohio and the Cumberland. The limits thus indicated were observed after the military departments were changed and consolidated. The aux- iliaries at Chicago, Peoria, Detroit, and Milwaukee united with St. Louis in supplying this Mississippi field. The principal centres of operations within the army were at Memphis, Vicksburg, and Little Rock, with stations at other points, while Cairo, and the various j:>osts nearer home and in the Northwest, were not forgotten. At the chief offices named, during the greater part of their occu- pation, Messrs. K. A. Burnell, Rev. F. G. Ensign, and C. C. Thayer were in charge. Other agents and perma- nent delegates rendered efficient service. Rev. Shepard Wells was both a Collecting and a Field Agent, looking lemonade out of sight, on the stairs. Rev. Mr. S. proposed a short religions service, read some of the comforting words of Jesus, from the Gospel of John, and talked very tenderly of home, of heaven, and of the Saviour. Good was done, no doubt ; but not so much as if the lemonade had come first. After the service they passed around their buckets and cups ; and more than one said to Mr. J., 'All! doctor, doctor, this is better than talk;' and to Mr. S. others said, 'Pardon me, sir; your talk was excellent, but this cooling drink is the best now.'" — First Annual Report, p. 19. AUX I LI. UUICS. ST. LOTJIS. 315 after the welfare of the troops in Missouri, Kansas, etc., and raising money and supplies throughout the home Beld. A prominent and somewhat peculiar feature of the operations of the St. Louis Branch was the employment of lady Delegates or missionaries. 1 They were engaged as attendants' in the reading-rooms and visitors in the hospitals, doing whatever their quick sympathy and ready hands found to do for the bodily and spiritual comfort of the men. These ladies were stationed in St. Louis, at Jefferson Barracks (twelve miles below St. Loins), at Fort Leavenworth, and at the rooms in Mem- phis, Vicksburg, and Little Bock. Some of them re- mained in the work from one to three years, and all of them performed services of great value. They were able, by their womanly affection, delicacy, and facility, to ex- ert an influence over the soldiers, for restraint and en- couragement, that was a most precious assistance alike to the surgeon and the religious teacher. One of these lady missionaries, in her report from Jefferson Barracks for 1863, says, " Not a week has passed lull that some have been hopefully converted." Mr. Ensign says, " I speak within bounds when 1 say that hundreds were led to 1 Ladies were similarly employed by other Committees, as, for example, at Ghicago, but in bo other field was tliis so prominent a characteristic as in the St. Louis district. Subjoined is a full list of tin- lady Delegates employed by tin- St. Louis Branch, as furnished by Mr. Mclntyre: — Mi-- Sue McBeth, Miss M. E. Burnell, Miss K. L. Ingalls, Mi— Nellie L. Barnard, Miss 1-'.. Hardenbrook, Mi— A. M. Turner, Miss Annie M. Johnson, Mi - N. II. Bowe, Miss n. B. Lei in--. Miss II. M. Bissell, Miss S. \. Sprague, Mrs. I). 0. Searles, Mi— Laura M. Pinney, Mrs. Belle Tanriahill, Mrs. D. E. orange, Miss Josephine Kimball, Miss Mary Porter, Mrs. Plumb. 316 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Jesus by these ladies." Many testimonials might be given of the fruitfulness of their labors and of the grati- tude of those to whom they ministered, as well as of the effect in deepening and strengthening their own religious character. The fact that St. Louis was within the arena of con- flict, — the State being at times occupied by from 20,000 to 50,000 troops, — while adding to its expenditures and labors, diminished its local resources. But liberal things were devised and done for the Commission in St. Louis and elsewhere in the State, while other portions of the home field, especially Southern Iowa, responded with noble generosity. When, in the summer of 1865, large bodies of troops were moved into Texas and upon the Plains of the Northwest, the St. Louis Branch assumed the task of carrying forward the work of the Commission among them. It was estimated, in August, that there were 60,000 men in Texas, 20,000 upon the Plains, and not far from 20,000 at other points in the St. Louis district. In many respects the value and fruitfulness of these closing labors, religious and sanitary, were not surpassed by any performed during the history of the Commission. Certainly none were more opjjortune. The war was substantially at an end. The national interest which centred in the army, and which reflected every change in the fortunes of the conflict, culminated with the sur- render of Lee's and Johnston's forces. Enthusiasm in that direction had well-nigh exhausted itself, and there was danger that the soldiers who were now sent South and AVest would be forgotten. It was less easy to awaken public attention and raise funds necessary for AUXILIARIES. — ST. LOUIS. 317 continued service. The benevolent associations 1 that had followed the army were preparing to retire, and the soldiers were almost moved to complain that the friends at home became sooner wearied of the service of charity than did they of the sacrifices of the camp and battle- field. So that what had been done was in danger of losing its just renown, through neglect of what there was yet to do. But money had come freely into the various treasuries of the Commission, during the rapid military successes of the spring, in anticipa- tion of necessities that were largely avoided by the sur- render of the rebel armies without severe fighting. These means were now in part available for the new emergency. St. Louis was assisted from the Central Ollice, as also by the auxiliaries at Boston, Chicago, and other jxtints. Mr. John A. Cole, being no longer needed as General Field Agent in the Eastern armies, was induced to take charge of operations in Texas, and Rev. W. J. Gladwin occupied a similar position in the Northwest, with head- quarters at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. The work was mainly done by permanent paid Delegates, although the work itself was only a repetition of what had been so often performed. The Overland Express Company, as well as the various railroad, steamboat, express, and tele- graph companies, whose lines centred in St. Louis, granted the use of their great facilities to the Commis- sion. The agency in Texas was withdrawn in April, 1866; the station at Little Hock, the last in the Missis- sippi field, closed early in June; and the station at Fort 1 No national society, except the Christian Commission, had workers among the troops sent to Texas and the Western Plain-. 318 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Leavenworth, the final scene of the Commission's active labors, Avas closed June 21. The Committee in St. Louis, after active field labors ceased, were engaged in placing their remaining libra- ries among the forts in the Western territories, and did not close their office until August 1, 1866. Even then they did not disband, but continued their organization, for the purpose of disbursing their unexpended funds in accordance with the original trust. BALTIMORE. The Baltimore Christian Association, as has been stated, was organized for work among the camps and hospitals of the city, in May, 1861. In the course of the following year it was brought into correspondence with the Christian Commission, from which it also re- ceived some contributions of stores. This led the Com- mission to appoint an auxiliary Committee in Baltimore, early in September, 1862, consisting of G. S. Griffith, President of the above Association, Rev. J. N. McJilton, d.d., and Rev. George P. Hays. These gentlemen continued to serve throughout the war, with Mr. Grif- fith as Chairman and Dr. McJilton, Secretary. In 1864 Mr. Hays was chosen Treasurer, and Rev. G. R. Bent, who had for some time been in the service of the Com- mission, was made General Agent, to have immediate oversight of affairs in the office. In the same year the Committee was enlarged, so as to represent the different religious denominations and the different sections of the home field. Mr. Griffith, besides devoting most of his time to the work, gave also the requisite accommodations for office and warehouse. \ r \ i i,i a 1:1 i.s. — n.\ OTIMOB E. 3 1 !• The district assigned to the Baltimore Committee con- sisted tit' the State of Maryland, to which was added, for convenience, the county of York, Pennsylvania, and, for a while, a portion of the State of Delaware. This will be seen to include, besides the important city of Baltimore, the line of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad to the Western boundary of Maryland, the camps and hospitals at Annapolis, Point Lookout, York, and other points. It was thus really more of an army field than a home field, although answering for both. The expen- ditures would of necessity exceed the receipts. The widespread and even violent sympathy with the rebel- lion, in the city and State, with all the indifference and opposition to such an institution as the Christian Com- mission which this sympathy implies, made the position of the Baltimore Committee alike delicate and difficult. But their success in collecting money and stores was considerable, as the tattles will show. The numerous hospitals in Baltimore were systemati- cally visited and well-eared for. Having, for the most part, faithful chaplains, the ladies of the city formed themselves into relief associations, one for each hospital, and thus gave themselves, with the co-operation of the gentlemen of the Christian Association, to supply every necessity. Through these several agencies, and under their own personal supervision, the Committee of the Christian Commission carried on their local work. Few points made memorable by the great war surpass in sad ami tender interest ( amp Parole and its neighbor- ing hospitals and barracks, at Annapolis. Here came the thousands, exchanged or waiting to he exchanged, from the terrible prisons at Richmond, Andersonville, 320 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. and elsewhere. The world lias heard much of the hor- rors endured in these prisons, hut the half is not yet told. 1 It was the privilege of the Christian Commission, mainly through the Baltimore Agency, to assist in bestowing such relief and comfort as were possible. 2 When it could be done, Delegates and stores were placed upon the transports, on their way to the points desig- nated for the exchange of prisoners, so that aid might be given at the earliest moment. The work done at Annapolis was among the most blessed and fruitful of any performed by the Commission. Not only did kind nursing, with such supjdies of food and clothing as were necessary, contribute much to the restoration of the men, — saving indeed many lives, — but the religious reading furnished, and the opportunities for hearing the gospel preached, and joining in meetings for social worship, were not less appreciated than the material comforts. To many of them there had been added to all their other hardships a famine of the Word of God, and they rejoiced in the abundant feast. As at Camp Convales- 1 Take simply this picture, with all that it suggests of privation and suffer- ing. It is given by a Delegate of the Commission, laboring in 1863 at Annapo- lis. Perhaps some time an artist may be found who can put it upon canvas : — " S. Chatfield, Company E, First Mounted Rifles, New York, said he saw six men, who were wasted by hunger and chilled with cold, for one dollar procure a small stick of wood, cut it in pieces and make a fire of it, and sit down to get a little heat. When it had burned up, one poor fellow leaned over the place where the tire had been; he put his face in his hands, and in the morning was found dead in that position." — Second Annual Report, p. 169. 2 In the Report of the Ladies' Christian Commission of Buffalo, more par- ticularly noticed elsewhere, is this refreshing item: "Thirteen large boxes (weighing over a ton) of poultry, pies, cake, pickles, jellies, apple?, etc., were sent to Annapolis, Maryland, for Thanksgiving Dinner (November 24, 1864) for our returned prisoners at that place." The preceding Christmas a dinner was provided for about 1,200 men there, by contributions from various sources. AT'X I LI A I! I r.S. B ALT1 MOB E. 321 fciil and other similar stations, so at Camp Parole there were frequent seasons of protracted religious revival. It may scorn strange, while the fact itself produces a singu- lar feeling of relief, that, with all their destitution of reli- gious advantages, there had been no little religious inte- rest among these men during their confinement in the w retched Southern prisons. The explanation is perhaps not difficult. Dependent upon each other for sympathy and encouragement, save only as an occasional message from home might reach them, or an attendant negro might clandestinely give them a little assistance or a word of comfort, they were led by their circumstances and the influence of the Holy Spirit to look to God. It is attested by competent witnesses that hundreds were converted at Andcrsonville, where religious meetings were maintained by the prisoners with more or less regu- larity. Similar facts are reported from other prisons. Point Lookout, at the junction of the Potomac with Chesapeake Bay, was the site of a large prison camp. Several thousands of rebels were here in confinement, requiring a large force of Union soldiers and two or three gunboats to guard them. The Commission did good ser- vice among these various troops. The rebels were assisted in making arrangements for stated and frequent religious meetings, and were helped to supplies of reading-matter and sanitary stores. Clergymen and other Christian professors of their own number were of course glad to co-operate. Numerous conversions occurred among them, as at other prison encampments. Some of the Delegates thought the rebels even more ready to yield to religious influences than our own men, and many affecting inci- dents took place among them. The hospitals, both of 41 322 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. the prisoners and the guard, contained their proportion of sick, and required the constant aid of the Commission. Point Lookout could not, from its retired position and its use as a prison, attract the attention and exeite the enthusiasm which attached to other places, hut by those who labored there it was recognized as an important and inviting field. The readiness of the Commission to be- stow its bounty upon those enemies of the country who had been taken prisoners was in general most heartily appreciated, and contributed something toward a better understanding of the real Christian feeling of the North. Two incidents in the operations of the Baltimore Com- mittee deserve special mention, as showing the facility with which the Commission met the emergencies of the hour. After the battle of Gettysburg, such of the dis- abled as could at all endure it were transported to the hospitals at Baltimore and elsewhere. The journey was wearisome and painful. At the instance of Dr. Cuyler, Medical Director, the Commission established a refresh- ment station, in cars juovided for the purpose, at Han- over Junction, thirty miles from Gettysburg and on the main line of railway. Here all the trains of wounded were stopped, and nourishing food and drink, — as lem- onade, ginger-water, tea and coffee, soft bread, etc., with stimulants for those that needed, — were liberally dis- tributed to the suffering men. This labor of love was for weeks in the hands of ladies from Baltimore, with such assistance from others as was requisite. Again, in the summer of 1804, the immense general hospital at City Point, covering forty acres and located wholly in tents, suffered greatly from dust. The nature of the soil, the warm dry weather, the constant grinding AT'XII.I AKIES. BUFFALO. '.V23 of tlio wagons and tramping of the horses, with the blow- ing of the wind, kept a dense cloud of dust continually over the camp, to the discomforl of all, and the increased suffering of the sick. Rev. A. 1?. Cross, of Baltimore, laboring for the Commission, suggested thai a steam fire- engine would relieve the case. General Grant approved the Suggestion, and at Once despatched Mr. Cross to Bal- timore, to secure an engine if possible. The Mayor readily assented, sending not only the engine hut men to work it. The neighboring Appomattox, by this means, speedily laid the dust of the camp, and furnished the hospital with an abundant supply of water. The Govern- ment soon assumed charge of this agency of relief. The Baltimore Committee, by its Delegates and in every other way, gave constant assistance to the Com- mission in the prosecution of its general work, in the armies before Richmond, in the Shenandoah Valley, and elsewhere. BUFFALO. The Buffalo Young Men's Christian Association was represented in the Convention which formed the Chris- tian ( lommission, and John I). Hill, m. p., of their num- ber, was made a constituent member of the Commission. Early in 1862, the Association appointed an Army Com- mittee, with Dr. Hill as chairman, for local work among the soldiers. This Committee continued its labors, con- stantly increasing in their scope and influence, until the spring of 1S(>4. On the tilth day of April, of that year, a Convention met in Rochester, composed of gentlemen from the several communities interested, which recom- mended to the Central ( Mlice the establishment of a 0_4 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN" COMMISSION. Branch Commission, with headquarters at Buffalo, to act for Western New York and Northwestern Pennsyl- vania. This was accordingly done, the title of the aux- iliary being The Branch, United States Christian Com- //lission for Western New York and Vicinity. Dr. Hill became Chairman; Rev. S. Hunt, Secretary; and F. Gridley, Treasurer. Different parts of the field were represented in the Executive Committee. This aux- iliary operated directly through the Central Office, sending its stores and Delegates both East and West, as circumstances might determine. The 'tables will indicate, with sufficient clearness, the amount of work done. In May, 18G3, a Ladies' Christian Commission w:as formed in Buffalo, which proved remarkably efficient. Although entirely distinct, as an organization, from the Branch Commission, the two societies worked together as mutual auxiliaries, the ladies contributing at least their full share to the success of the enterprise. More than half the cash receqrts reported by the Branch were from the ladies. All the stores received were by them repacked and prepared for shipment. They had one hundred and thirty-nine smaller aid societies tributary to them. To these were sent large quantities of flannel and other materials, which were returned in the shape of manufactured garments and other needful articles, almost always accompanied by contributions either of money or valuable stores. As there was no expense for labor in any part of the process of these manufactures, and the express comj)anies carried all the packages without charge, the whole presents a delightful example ATXILIAKIKS. BROOKLYN. 326 of the community of service for the soldiers by a noble band of patriotic and Christian women. 1 Rochester was within the field assigned to the Buf- falo Committee, and made to it contributions of money and stores. In the latter part of the war, however, an independent Committee was organized, directly auxiliary to the Central Office, with Rev. Dr. Claxton as Chairman, and O. D. Grosvenor as Secretary and Trea- surer. The figures given in our tables must not be regarded as a measure of the benevolence of Rochester toward the soldiers. Immediately after the opening of the war several vigorous aid societies were formed, mainly operated by the ladies, which selected such channels for their benefactions as seemed best suited to their purposes. Some of them, in 1863, became tribu- tary to the Commission, and some continued to act inde- pendently of any national organization. They all did good service. BROOKLYN. An Army and Navy Committee, to act in concert with the Christian Commission, was appointed by the Brooklyn Young Men's Christian Association, December 4, 18(>1. They were for several months very efficient in local work, and also contributed largely to aid the troops at the seat of Avar. The Brooklyn Navy Yard, where many of the war vessels were put in commission, and ' Two or three items in the reports of these ladies may be given, not only :is showing tin- nature and extent of their work, lint as indicating also what was done by similar societies in all parts of the country. For example, in tie Re- port for 1864, "Over twelve thousand yards of flannel have been cut and made up. without "lie Denny's expense I'm' labor." In the Report for 1865, "Number ill shirts cut during the year, 1,899; drawers, 1,485; pair- of socks ami mittens knit, 501." 32G ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. many of the marines enlisted, furnished an inviting field. Frequent meetings were held, with distributions of reading-matter and other articles, among the sailors thus made accessible, as also in the camps and hospitals of the vicinity. Donations of stores and publications, besides those contributed to the Central Office, were sent to the army through Mr. Colyer and other special agents, after several of the earlier battles, both in the East and West. Their Annual Report, presented in May, 1802, shows a disbursement already made of money and stores amounting to nearly $25,000, — by far the largest exhibit of any similar Committee for that year. In the first winter of the war, the Committee aided in tlu' purchase of chapel tents for four New York regi- ments, mainly from collections made in the city churches. During 1863, the contributions of Brooklyn for the army were sent almost wholly through other channels. On the 21st of March, 1804, was organized the Brooklyn and Long Island Christian Commission, with W. S. Griffith, President; S. B. Caldwell, Treasurer; Rev. J. B. Waterbury, o. n., Corresponding Secretary. This society, while it operated mainly through the Christian Commission, was yet independent in its organization. It made no efforts to raise sanitary stores, believing that its usefulness would be best promoted by confining its action to the soliciting of money, the commissioning of Delegates, and the distribution of reading-matter. The stores needed for distribution by its Delegates were taken from the general supplies of the Commission, or received from other societies. This fact will explain a feature almost peculiar to the statistical exhibit of Brooklyn, esj^ecially in the returns for the later years, — namely, Al'X 1 1,1 AIM is. — LOUISVILLE. "t'27 that tlic ratio of the cash received and expended and the Delegates commissioned is much higher. than that of the stores reported. The Brooklyn Commission, like the Army Committee which preceded it, aeted promptly and generously in providing chapel tents for the army, voting- $5000 for tins purpose at one time. This secured ten chapels, for each of which the Brooklyn office also furnished a valuable library. The work at the navy yard, on the receiving-ships, and in behalf of the marines, continued to be one of great importance and valuable results. The following incident, representative of many that might be given, illustrates the method of the work in part, and its fruit. The agent at the navy yard in 1864, writes, "A lieu- tenant recently returned from one of our iron-clads, up the James river, called to see me, and requested another supply of reading-matter, having read with diligence and profit the supply we gave them. He said, 'I com- menced religions services on board, it being optional to attend or not, and one seaman attended. Now,' said he, 'over one hundred attend each service. There is a great change .■inning the crew.' " LOUISVILLE. Louisville, like Washington and St. Louis, was imme- diately affected, upon the outbreak of hostilities, by its position upon the border and the divided sentiments of its people. Its position also soon determined its conve- nience as a military depot for the troops operating in the departments of the Cumberland and the Ohjo. Although the hindrances were great, there were not wanting here, as in other places similarly situated, those 328 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. who appreciated the necessity of Christian effort among the soldiers, and who attempted to supply it. The Young Men's Christian Association, early in 1862, ap- pointed an Army Committee, which engaged in the various kinds of service already so frequently alluded to in connection with like Committees elsewhere. The ladies, not a few of them among the most prominent and influential of the city, joined heartily in these labors. Through the Army Committee and other per- sons the Christian Commission made considerable dis- tributions. In May, 1803, a Branch Commission was formed, with J. Edward Hardy, Chairman; J. G. Bar- rett, 1 Treasurer; Isaac Bussed, Secretary ; — these officers remaining unchanged through the war. Something was done toward canvassing the city and State for the Com- mission, and organizing local committees, — with what material results the tables of receipts will show. Sup- plies for Nashville and beyond passed through Louis- ville, and its own needs made it a point for large distri- butions. There were not fewer than twenty hospitals in the city and vicinity, and the sick and wounded at times numbered over 10,000 men. Besides these, there were several extensive canips and barracks. Special diet kitchens, more fully noticed in another place, were established in a majority of the hospitals here, and were conducted with efficiency and the most beneficial results. The interest of the citizens in the Commission's work was pleasantly and generously shown, in addition to their general hearty co-operation, by their aid in providing, 1 The first Treasurer was Thomas Quigley, Esq., — a well-known and highly esteemed citizen of Louisville. Upon his death, January 2, 18(54, Mr. Barrett was appointed. A T X I I.I ARIES. LOUISVILLE. 329 on more than one occasion, a Christinas dinner for the inmates of the hospitals. The relations of the Commis- sion to citizens, military authorities, and transportation Companies, were nowhere more satisfactory than in Louis- ville. As incidental to their other labors, and by request of General Sherman, this Branch assisted in relieving the wants of the many refugees and deserters from the rebel army that gathered here. They were helped to employ-; men!, gathered into Sunday-schools, taught to read, and they had opportunities of hearing the gospel preached. In dune. 1865, General Sherman's army rendezvoused near the city, to he mustered out of service, which occu- pied over two months. This gave opportunity for an important work, and it was not neglected. Mr. Loyd's statement of these special labors will be read with inte- rest : — "Large shipments of stores were received from Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Buffalo, Pittsburg, and Phila- delphia. Purchases were also made in Louisville. The number of Delegates was inadequate to the work, yet the following brief summary, from dune 4 to August 10, will show that they were not idle : — Sermon- and addresses 170 Person* prayed with L68 Persons conversed with on reli- gion 3,424 Tesl rote distributed 9,290 Hvnm 1 ks distributed 7,168 Religious papers distributed (1:2,090 Pages of tracts distributed... 1,755,635 Sheets of writing-paper dis- tributed 66,495 Envelopes distributed 66, 195 Letters written for soldiers... 273 "In addition to the vegetables, fruits, and clothing re- ceived in boxes and barrels, $934 were expended iii the Louisville daily markets for hospital delicacies, during these two months." 330 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN* COMMISSION. Although the work was greatly diminished in Louis- ville after the dispersion of General Sherman's troops, it did not wholly cease until the dose of the year. PEORIA, ILLINOIS. The location of a camp at this place, early in the war, at once occasioned the appointment of an Army Com- mittee by the Young Men's Christian Association. The meetings held among the soldiers, with distribution of reading-matter and religious conversation, were not only the means of great good to the men thus reached, but soon bore fruit also in the awakening of unusual reli- gious interest in the city. The work for the soldiers naturally increased as they left the camp for the army, and as the army itself became recognized as a held for evangelical effort, and the Committee became fully aux- iliary to the Christian Commission. In 18G4 a Branch Commission was established at Peoria, bui with scarcely a change in the membership or officers of the Committee. The officers were, William Reynolds and Theodore Hig- bce, respectively Chairman and Treasurer of the Young Men's Christian Association, and A. G. Tyng and G. H. Mcllvaine, respectively Chairman and Secretary of the Army Committee, — all prominent business men. The lniine field for the Peoria Branch was Central Illinois, and the army field was the Department of the Missis- sippi, — in co-operation with the auxiliaries at St. Louis, Chicago, Milwaukee, and Detroit. The home field was admirably canvassed, as the figures in the tables and some incidents given in the chapter on Contributions will show. Xo salaried agent was employed, the Com- mittee doing their own collecting, and making also AUXILIARIES. — PEORIA. 331 frequent visits to the army to look after the interests of the Commission and to labor personally among the sol- diers. Rev. C. C. McCabe, a most efficient home agent, whose official relations were with the Central Commis- sion, assisted Peoria and other Western Branches in raising funds. In the latter part of 18G4, a.s already stated, the sta- tion at Cairo was taken in charge by the Peoria Com- mittee. From this point, besides the work done on the spot, they were able to reach the gunboats and transports on the Western rivers. Arrangements were made, through the ready co-operation of the authorities, by which a package of books and papers was sent semi- monthly to each of the fifty-nine vessels composing the Mississippi Squadron. There was often great distress among the multitude of furloughed, convalescent, and disabled soldiers who gathered at Cairo. Separated from their regiments, without money and without means of obtaining it, fur- nished only with transportation, they had frequently nothing upon which to subsist while travelling home- ward. Tlu' Peoria Committee did much to relieve these sufferers, by providing meal tickets 1 upon the principal eating houses along the railroad lines through the State. As the sick and wounded men arrived at Cairo they were visited by the agents of the Commission, and each man who had need was furnished with a sufficient iiiuii- 1 These tickets were of colored card-board, in shape like a railroad conduc- tor's check. Opon one aide was printed, " United States Christian Commis- sion Meal Ticket, Good for one Moat at Station- on back of this .aril.'' Signed by tin Corresponding Secretary of tin- Peoria Branch. On tin- back was a li-t of the stations at which the ticket would be received, with the name of tin kei per of tin-- eating house. 332 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. ber of these tickets to secure him three good meals per day until he could reach home. The eating houses sup- plied the tickets to the Commission at a reduced price (twenty-five cents each), received all that were presented, and forwarded them to Peoria for redemption at the end of each month. The reader does not require to he reminded that these simple manifestations of Christian sympathy and efforts to succor those who were periling all for the national cause, often touched the hearts of those upon whom they were bestowed. Many a new life began in the reception of some little courteous attention, wholly unlooked for, which required but a moment and a Christian smile, and an opportune word withal, that should direct the thoughts to Jesus Christ the Saviour. NEW YORK CITY. "Early in the history of the General Commission it was discovered that a large part of its work would have to be reached by means of the government ships leaving the port of New York. In no other way could it carry on its operations on the South- Atlantic coast, along the Gulf, and upon the lower Mississippi. To meet this necessity, it was deemed advisable to create a separate organization, to be located in the city of New York* which would be auxiliary to the parent Commission, in sympathy and co-operation, but to which a distinct field of labor would be assigned, and also a limited field from which to draw supplies. Accordingly, on the 8th of December, 1802, the New York Branch of the Christian AUXILIARIES. — NEW YOKE. 338 Commission was formed." 1 The men who thus associated themselves in the work were among the most prominent in the city. William E. Dodge was chosen Chairman of the General Board; Frederick G. Eoster, Vice-Chair- man ; James M. Brown, Treasurer ; Rev. Russell S. Cook, Secretary. An Executive Committee of eight was ap- pointed, of which Mr. Foster was ex officio Chairman. In the latter part of April, 1863, Mr. Cook and Mr. Foster withdrew from their official positions, through the pressure of other duties. Nathan Bishop was chosen Chairman of the Executive Committee,' and also assumed the labor of conducting the correspondence, — attending ''personally to every department of the work." The Committee's duties were numerous and arduous, often requiring daily and protracted sessions, hut the work was thoroughly systematized and divided among special committees, and was done with the promptness and fidelity to lie exj)ected from the men who had it in charge. In the spring of 1865, Mr. Brown, being about to visit Europe, resigned the office of Treasurer, and was succeeded by Morris K. Jesup. At the same time, Dr. Bishop's health failing under his constant labors, Rev. Dr. H. Dyer was appointed .Secretary. The rooms of the Commission were in the Bible House, No. 30. '"By an arrangement with the Central Commission, there was assigned to the New York Branch the follow- ing field of operations: 1. The vessels of war fitted out in the harbor of New York, with their transports and the squadrons receiving supplies, making nearly the whole 1 A Memorial Record of the .V » fork Branch of the United States Christian ' 'ommiasion. I torapiled under the direction of the Executive Committee. 1866. See p. 14. 334 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. naval force of the country. 2. The forts, camps, naval and military hospitals in New York and vicinity. 3. The armies and military and naval hospitals along the South- Atlantic coast, at the mouth of the Chesapeake, in the sounds of North Carolina, the islands of South Carolina and Georgia, the mainland and islands of Florida and Alabama, and within the military depart- ment of the Gulf of Mexico. The aggregate number of sailors and soldiers embraced within these limits was estimated at about one-fourth of the war forces of the country, of whom not far from one-tenth were in hos- pitals. " The field, as at last defined, from which this Branch of the Commission was to obtain supplies of funds and stores, embraced the city of New York, the towns on the Hudson below Albany, Eastern New Jersey, and Connecticut. 1 .... "For the sake of greater efficiency, the general field was divided into distinct departments, — each department bearing a particular name. Over each department a suitable person was appointed, to act as agent. All the Delegates for a given department were under the super- vision of this agent, whose duty it was to assign them their particular work, and furnish them with such sup- plies as they might need. All the forts, hospitals, troops, and shipping within the department were to be provided for. This agent was in constant communication with the office in New York, receiving such supplies of stores and reading-matter as his department might require, and rendering monthly an account of all the work under his 1 Memorial 'Record, p. 16. AUXILIARIES. — NEW YORK. 3:35 care r>v this arrangement the Committee always knew what was wanted and where it was wanted "The departments of labor may be numbered as fol- lows : — " 1. The forts, camps, and naval and military hospi- tals in New York, and in the neighborhoods and towns from fifteen to twenty miles from the city. Of these there were some twenty, embracing on an average from fifteen to twenty thousand men. "2. The ships of war, with their transports, leaving the navy-yard of Brooklyn. There were about five hundred and eighty ships, and thirty-four thousand sea- men. These constituted the larger part of the naval force of the United States. "3. The Department of Eastern Virginia, embracing Norfolk, Portsmouth, and the fleets coming to and de- parting from that port. The Rev. E. N. Crane was the agent, and had his headquarters at Norfolk. The num- ber of Delegates varied from six to twelve. This depart- ment was administered with great system and economy. "4. The Department of North Carolina, embracing all the territory within the Union lines South of Vir- ginia. The headquarters were at Newbern. The follow- ing persons acted as agents, — Rev. Jacob Best, Rev. John C. Taylor, Rev. A. S. Lovell, and Rev. Washing- ton Rodman. The number of Delegates varied from ten to eighteen. The labors of this department wen' most difficult and arduous. After the fall of Wilming- ton, and the approach of General Sherman'.- army, all the hospitals were crowded with the sick and wounded, and the Delegates were taxed to the utmost of their abilities. OoG ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. " 5. The Department of the South, embracing all the territory within the Union lines in South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. Headquarters at Hilton Head. The agents were Rev. W. H. Taylor, Eev. Joseph Hen- son, and Rev. Dwight Spencer. Number of Delegates varied from ten to fifteen. The affairs of this depart- ment were conducted in a most satisfactory manner. " 6. The Department of the Gulf, including all points within the Union lines from Key West on the East to the Rio Grande on the West, the lower Mississippi as far North as Port Hudson, and also the Red River region as far as the Union forces held possession. The headquarters were at New Orleans. For a few months the Rev. J. F. Sutten acted as agent. He was succeeded by Dr. J. V. C. Smith, whose medical knowledge and eminent administrative abilities peculiarly fitted him for this most responsible position. For two years and a half he conducted (gratuitously) the affairs of his de- partment, not only to the entire satisfaction of the Com- mittee, but to the great comfort and benefit of the sol- diers and sailors who came within the limits of his field. He was most ably seconded by a corps of twenty or more Delegates, some of whom continued in the service for two years or more." 1 The Committee make special mention of the valuable services rendered by Rev. Geo. J. Mingins and Dr. Oliver Bronson. Mr. Mingins acted as General Agent, in awakening the public and raising funds. Familiar with the work from its beginning, in the first company of Delegates to the army and frequently renewing his experience by subsequent visits, and an effective speaker, 1 Memorial Record, pp. 31-33. AUXILIARIES. — NEW YORK. 337 he was of signal service in securing the sympathy and aid of the many communities he addressed. Dr. Bron- sod was Chairman of the Committee of Publications. " Everything in this department came under his personal supervision and care. Besides carefully selecting from the issues of the different societies and of the various publishing houses, he had several small books and tracts prepared with special application to the men in service." Some peculiarities in their field of operations need to be considered, in order rightly to estimate the work done by the New York Committee as compared with other auxiliaries. Many of their stations were distant, and the passage to them was tedious and expensive. They were dependent upon the government naval transports for the carriage of Delegates and stores, and although government officials were uniformly courteous and ac- commodating, yet the exigencies of the service often rendered the facilities at command wholly inadequate, and compelled the postponement of the desire of a benevolent society to the more urgent demands of war. The need was less in the navy than in the army for extra sanitary supplies. For this and other reasons, and especially influenced by the consideration that the entire blockading squadron was without a chaplain, the Committee gave their chief attention to the sending out of Delegates and the distribution of reading-matter. Their position also required a departure from the general custom of the Commission in the period of ser- vice and compensation of Delegates. The six weeks' rule was wholly inapplicable, where the slut ions were so distant, and hence six months were fixed by the Xew York Committee as the least time for which it was ex- 43 338 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. pedient to employ a Delegate. ' No special provision was made for subsisting the Delegates, as was done at the establishments of the Commission among the land forces, but a small compensation was allowed, sufficient merely for personal expenses. It will therefore be noticed in the tables that the New York office shows an apparent disproportionate outlay for Delegates' expenses. The disproportion, however, is apparent only and not real. The New York Delegates served an average period of four months and a half each, — the average being con- siderably reduced by the fact that a number of clergymen and others visited the nearer armies at various times, remaining only a few days or weeks, that they might be able to report to the public the operations and necessities of the Commission. The average term served by the whole body of Delegates, omitting those sent out by the New York Committee, is a fraction less than thirty-five days, or five weeks. The New York Delegate force should therefore, in equity, be represented by (J73, instead of the number given in the tables, 177, — inasmuch as each man served three and a half times as many days as those sent from the other offices. With this as a basis, if the entire sum of field expenses (omitting only that which pertains to the support of diet kitchens) be apportioned to each Delegate and permanent agent, it will be seen that the expenses averaged a few dollars more per man for the New York office than for the Com- mission as a whole. The comparison is of interest mainly as illustrating the two methods of working, — the one engaging men for a short time, giving no compensa- tion, paying only actual expenses, and subsisting them on the field at quarters specially provided ; the other AUXILIARIES. NEW YOKE. 339 engaging the men for a much longer time, paying them a small compensation, and allowing them to provide for themselves. It seems that on the score of economy there is little to choose; the more permanent men doubtless became better trained to their work and therefore 1 •<■ efficient; while those whose periods of service were shorter contributed more to keep up an active sympathy between the home and the army, and thus supply the constant and fresh information that was needed to elicit means requisite for the great work. Each method had some advantages that the other had not, and each was better suited to the circumstances under which it was employed, while it was well that both could he so used as to product 1 such abundant and good fruit. The operations of the New York Committee lay, for the most part, within a field less under the public eye than were the vast land forces East and AVest. The plea for help was therefore not so self-evident and irre- sistible as for "battle-field work," or for the camps and hospitals near at hand, whose occupants were in daily communication with their homes. These considerations seemed at times to hinder the Committee from securing their share of the public attention and resources. Besides this, their city was the central scat of other and power- ful organizations which were doing what at least appeared to he a similar work, and for which there was properly given a generous assistance. But still they were aide to report the collection of a. large sum ($307,649.38-), and were never really embarrassed for want of funds. The members of the Committee, as was indeed the case gene- rally with all the committees, were among the largesi contributors. New York was second only to Boston in 340 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. the amount of her cash receipts, and in her cash expen- ditures she was, as would be expected from the survey of her field, first among the auxiliaries. It was fitting that the Committee should close their record with this minute: — Before this Committee finally adjourn, they desire to return their sincere thanks to all who by their contributions of money, stores, personal efforts, and their prayers, have enabled the Commission to accomplish its work of mercy in the army and the navy of the United States. They desire, also, as their closing act, to express and place on record their deep sense of gratitude to Almighty God, for the mani- fold tokens of his love and favor toward the Commission, in the ser- vices in which it has been engaged. And especially would they reverently acknowledge his great goodness in staying the desolations of war, in restoring peace to our land, and in preserving and strength- ening our national Government. From him alone these blessings have come, and to his great name, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, would we ascribe all the honor and glory of this great salvation. MAINE. Religious work among the soldiers began in the State of Maine with the outbreak of the war. In April, 1861, Messrs. Charles Douglass and G. H. Palmer procured contributions from the churches in Bath, and furnished Testaments to every member of two companies of the Third Maine Regiment. Other communities were early interested. As the work of the Christian Commission became known, active auxiliary committees were formed in Bangor, Bath, and Portland. These were natural centres for the benefactions of the surrounding com- munities. Ultimately the State was thoroughly organ- ized, each of the above committees undertaking the canvass of five counties. Rev. S. L. Bowler did good AUXILIARIES. TROY. CINCINNATI. 'Vi\ service as Stale Agent. Some of the returns from the several committees are given in the tables, but much was sent from the numerous local aid societies directly to the agency in Boston, to which Maine was more im- mediately auxiliary. A full exhibit for the State cannot therefore be separately given. The Bath Committee estimate the total receipts on their field at $24,987.57, and the estimates for Bangor and Portland should pro- bably be correspondingly increased. TROY, NEW YORE. The Troy Branch of the Christian Commission was formed in January, 1863, with Harvey J. King as Chairman, and Chas. P. Hartt as Secretary and Trea- surer. Their home field was limited. Besides working among the soldiers in their own city, they forwarded several thousands of dollars to the Central Office. CINCINNATI. Although Cincinnati had from the beo-innino- contri- buted in various ways to the welfare of the army, the work of the Christian Commission was not organized there until the spring of 1863. Rev. B. W. Chidlaw, well known as a Sunday-school missionary, was mainly instrumental in forming the first committee. He had previously been Chaplain of the Thirty-ninth Ohio Regiment, and had also visited the forces in the South- west as the Agent of the Sanitary Commission, besides laboring in the local camps and hospitals. A public meeting was held early in April, 1863, at which Major- General Burnside, then Commander of the Department, made an effective address, commending the Christian 342 ANNALS orfrHE christian commission. Commission to public favor. A Committee was at once organized, with L. C. Hopkins as President; W. T. Perkins, Treasurer; and Rev. B. W. Chidlaw, Secretary. The work was new, other organizations were in successful operation, and the Commission was compelled to win for itself position and influence. In July of the same year the Committee was re-organized, and A. E. Chamberlain became President. A little later Eev. J. P. Marlay was chosen Secretary, Mr. Chidlaw continuing to give valu- able assistance as General Agent. Mr. Chamberlain furnished rooms for the Commission's business in bis own establishment, and gave himself almost wholly to its interests. In the following summer Mr. Perkins removed from the city, and the finances of the Committee were managed by the executive officers, without form- ally appointing a treasurer. The Cincinnati Branch became the base office for the Commission's work in the military departments of the Ohio and the Cumberland, being aided in this field by the agencies at Pittsburg, Indianapolis, and Louisville. The home district of this auxiliary was well culti- vated, as the fruits show. Messrs. Chamberlain, Marlay, and Chidlaw, assisted by others of the Committee, espe- ciallv by Hon. Bellamy Storer, held frequent public meetings in the larger towns and villages. They were greatly aided, as was everywhere the case, by those who had been Delegates to the army, and by the letters and visits of the soldiers. Numerous Ladies' Aid Societies, — "scores and hundreds," the Report says, — became tribu- tary, and few things in tbe history of benevolence are more remarkable than the rapidity with which the AUXILIARIES. — CINCINNATI. 343 resources of the Cincinnati Branch multiplied. This is particularly striking i'i the returns of donated stores. These increased in 1864 more than twelve-fold over those of L863, and in the few months during which the n . i I jits continued in 1865 they were much greater than at any other office, excepting Pittsburg and not except- ing Philadelphia. There was at first some hesitation by the Committei at Cincinnati, as elsewhere, to make the Christian Com- mission entirely independent and untrammeled in its operations, with complete control over its stores and other appliances. But the necessity for this was soon made apparent, and it was seen that the most efficient co-operation with others, as well as the vigor and use- fulness of its own efforts, required entire freedom of action. This necessity was yielded to as soon as recog- nized, and the splendid results arc partially indicated in the statistical tallies. The gratuitous services of the Committee, with the facilities afforded by Government, and the favors of transportation companies, kept the expenses at a very low figure. Cincinnati was the centre of a local work of great importance, to which the Committee gave faithful atten- tion. Not to particularise other places, Camp Dennison was itself a considerable village of neat and well-occupied wooden barracks, where every facility was afforded to the ( Jommission by the commanding officer. The chapel was the seat of almost continuous religious interest, and was one of the many places throughout the army where the Spirit of Cod signalized his gracious power to renew and sanctify the hearts of men. The Cincinnati Branch first moved in the matter of 344 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. establishing special diet kitchens in the army hospitals, 1 upon the plan of Mrs. Wittenmyer. In addition to those established in the Army of the Cumberland, there was a large and very serviceable kitchen, under the immediate supervision of the Committee, at Camp Dennison. It was in charge of Mrs. Lucy H. Burrowes, with several lady assistants. By their gentle ministry not only were many valuable lives saved and much bodily comfort secured, through a proper diet properly prepared for the sick and convalescent, but there were also many precious souls won to the Saviour. The Cincinnati Committee sent into the army several wooden chapels of unique and convenient pattern. They were wholly prepared by the manufacturer in the city, packed in suitable shape for shipment, and readily put together when they reached their destination. For many locations they were much superior to tents. For a chapel, measuring 20 feet by 60, and provided with seats, the cost was $800. This item is from the Com- mittee's rej^ort for 1804: — One of the most important features of our work has been the dis- tribution of stationer}'. During the past year about two thousand reams of paper, with three hundred thousand envelopes, have been furnished to the soldiers from this office. During the presence of Hood's army before Nashville, our agents at that point distributed writing paper among the soldiers of General Thomas at the rate of 85,000 sheets per day. A final public meeting was held, at which a eompre- 1 In the spring of 1864, twenty cows were bought by this Branch for the ( lumberland Hospital at Nashville. Dayton, Ohio, furnished the purchase money, the surgeon in charge at the hospital provided a detail of soldiers from the Invalid Corps to care for the cows, and so the 2,400 sick and wounded men had the luxury of fresh milk every day. AUXILIARIES. PITTSBURG. 345 hensive report of the entire work was given, in Septem- ber, 1SI'>.">, at which time also the office was closed. 1 If the record opened in weakness it closed in power, and many hearts were filled with gratitude to God for the blessed privilege of doing something toward preserv- ing and comforting the men who saved the nation. PITTSBURG. "The Arm;/ Committee of Western Pennsylvania was organized Ajn'il 6th, 1863. Prior to that time, the only association which had been regularly and systematically forwarding hospital stores to the army was the Pitts- burg Subsistence Committee, appointed by the citizens of Pittsburg at a meeting held in August, 1861. Its proper duty was the providing of refreshments for all regiments or companies passing through the city to or from the seat of war. After the reception from several hospitals of pressing appeals for stores, the Committee opened depots for receiving articles for the sick and wounded soldiers, and sent or appointed agents at various points to attend to the proper distribution of the goods donated. Depending entirely on the free-will offerings of the people, the contributions poured in so rapidly and continuously that goods, amounting in value to sixty thousand dollars, were forwarded and distributed by the Subsistence Committee between January, 1862, and April, 1863. "After a meeting held by Mr. George H. Stuart and others, the Subsistence Committee resolved to transfer its store-room and stores on hand to the United States 1 Some aid was given by the Committee to the supplementary operations of the Commission among the troops which were moved South ami West. 346 ANXALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Christian Commission, and, while not neglecting its legitimate work of feeding the soldiers, to unite heartily with the national organization in its great work. "At a meeting of ministers and members of the vari- ous denominations, held in the Second Presbyterian Church, April 6, 1863, the Army Committee of Western Pennsylvania was organized, and the following officers elected:- — President, Rev. Herrick Johnson; Chairman of Executive Committee, Hon. Robert McKnight; Sec- retary, Robert C. Totten; Treasurer, Joseph Albree; Receiver, William P. Weyman. "The first public meeting was held on the evening of April 16, 1863, at which time the new Committee began to work in connection with the United States Christian Commission." 1 The members of the Committee, as it finally stood, represented various parts of the home field. Some slight changes were made among the officers in 1864, — William Frew becoming Treasurer, and Mr. Albree taking the title of Field Secretary. The work of the Subsistence Committee 2 had been so 1 Second Annual Report of the Christian Commission, pp. 192, 193. - This Subsistence Committee was composed of about forty active members, the majority being ladies. The duty they took upon themselves was to see that no soldier passed through Pittsburg, either to or from the army, by day or night, without a comfortable meal of victuals. They were also prepared to furnish lodgings for those that needed, and medicine and nursing for the sick. Those who know the hours at which the heavy passenger trains arrive upon the railroads centring in Pittsburg, will readily understand that the night work of this Committee was even more laborious than the work by day. There was a promptness, neatness, liberality, and withal a Christian cheerfulness, in their operations, from beginning to end, that won golden opinions from the soldiers, and are worthy of greater praise and a larger record than can here be given them. Besides all else that they did, this Committee fed more than /re hun- dred thousand soldiers on their passage through the city. AUXILIARIES. — PITTSBURG. 3 17 admirably done, and it had gained so strong a hold upon the confidence of the community, that its alliance with the Christian Commission at once secured to the latter a corresponding position and influence. A band of men and women had been trained to a just appreciation of the work, and to skill in performing it. Messrs. Albree and Weyman were especially active, and to them belongs no small portion of the credit for the noble record which their Branch presents. Their home held, including Western Pennsylvania, Eastern ( )hio, and Western Vir- ginia, was well canvassed, and local committees organized in every direction. The press and the transportation companies freely furnished their great facilities, which were vigorously and systematically used. Various eccle- siastical bodies, as conferences and presbyteries, engaged to keep each a Delegate constantly in the army, — the several ministers going in turn, and also tilling the pul- pits of those who were absent upon this errand. The Pittsburg Branch was associated with those aux- iliaries which undertook the more immediate care of the armies that had their principal depot at Nashville. Help had been sent there by the Subsistence Committee before the Christian Commission was established in the West, and now their successors, the Army Committee, were prominent in maintaining and enlarging the work, while finding also means and men to assist in supply- ing the armies in the East. The statistical tables tell their own story with respect to the operations of this Committee. While the cash receipts ($158,334.37) rank Pittsburg below Boston and New York, the value of her stores was sufficient C^' '7' ',< '•< > i.Si)) to make the total cash value of all her 348 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. receipts ($837,999.26) in excess of the returns of any other auxiliary. The annual increase in the amount of stores received was remarkable, — being about five-fold (remembering that only four or five months should be reckoned for the year 1865). The total cash value of stores was only a little less than of those sent to the Central Office (during the last year it was more than three times as great), and was nearly one-fourth of all that were received by the Commission and its auxiliaries throughout the country. It must also be stated that no salaries were paid by the Committee, and that the ex- penses for collecting and forwarding their immense receipts were $3,787.35, — less than one-half of one per cent on the gross amount. Such an exhibit would be weakened by comment or praise. DETROIT. The Michigan Branch of the Christian Commission was organized at a public meeting held in Detroit, June 15, 1863. Previous to that the benefactions of the State for the soldiers had reached the army through other channels. For a year or more a valuable work had been going forward in the hospitals of Detroit, under the management of Mrs. Jane W. Brent, who continued her labors until the close of the war. After a few changes in the Detroit Committee, the officers stood as follows: — E. C. Walker, Chairman ; H. P. Baldwin, Treasurer ; Chas. F. Clark, Secretary; Bev. G. Taylor, State Agent; Francis Baymond received and forwarded the supplies. The tables indicate with sufficient clearness what was accomplished by this Committee. December 7, 1863, a Ladies' Christian Commission AUXILIARIES. — ST. PAUL. — INDIANAPOLIS. 349 was formed in Detroit, with Mrs. Brent as President, giving themselves to local work, and doing great good. Their expenditures, amounting to many thousands of dollars, are not included in the exhibits of the Commis- sion. ST. PAUL. The Minnesota, Branch of the Christian Commission was constituted at St. Paul, on the evening of November 20, 1863, — the Young Men's Christian Association re- solving itself into an Army Committee for that purpose. The officers were, — President, Geo. W. Prescott; Vice- President, Edward Eggleston ; Treasurer, I). D. Mer- rill; Corresponding Secretary, H. M. Knox; Recording- Secretary, H. K. Taylor; Depositary, W. S. Potts. There were many difficulties and embarrassments sur- rounding the Committee, but they did what they could. Their local needs, with the frontier military posts throughout the State, demanded most of their attention, hut they were able to contribute somewhat also to the general work. INDIANAPOLIS. The Indiana Branch of /he Christian Can mission was organized at Indianapolis, the last week in November, 1863, and began its work on the 1st of December. Its officers were, — G. \Y. Clippinger, President; Jas. M. Pay, Treasurer ; L. H. Croll, Recording Secretary; Chas. N. Todd, Corresponding Secretary and General Agent. There was from the beginning a heavy local work, the city being the State military depot, and continually like " one great encampment." By all the methods of the Commission, the Indianapolis (' anmittee co-operated 350 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. with the military authorities and the chaplains in secur- ing religious advantages, reading-matter, hospital com- forts, etc., for their men. Permanent Delegates were employed in these labors. This Committee furnished assistance to other military posts in the State, and aided in carrying forward the work in the Army of the Cumberland. It had a num- ber of auxiliary aid societies in different parts of the State. Its office was closed July 20, 1865. The statis- tical tables show a creditable record, and that the influ- ence and resources of the Committee were steadily on the increase. A Convention of representatives from all the Western Branches was held in Indianapolis in November, 1804. Besides being a delightful opportunity for earnest Chris- tian men to renew or to make each other's acquaintance, the meeting had a happy influence in consolidating, strengthening, and enlarging the operations of the Com- mission. ALBANY. A Branch of the Christian Commission was organized in Albany, New York, the 1st of April, 1864. Its offi- cers were, — Thos. \V. Olcott, President; John F. Bath- bone, Vice-President ; Levi Dedrick, Secretary ; AVm. McElroy, Treasurer. Its active operations closed with July, 1865, — thus bringing its history with-in about sixteen months. During this time, by labors among the soldiers in Albany and by contributions for the general work in the army, this Branch did good service. There was an efficient Ladies' Commission, through which a good part of the work was done. AUXILIARIES. — CONNECTICUT. — CLEVELAND. 351 CONNECTICUT. The Connecticut Branch of the Chris/inn Commission was organized, with headquarters at Hartford, April 17, 1804. Governor Wm. A. Buckingham was Chairman, and Rev. H. Powers, who was also connected with the work in Western Massachusetts, was Corresponding Sec- retary. Somewhal later an auxiliary was formed at New Haven, the two agencies purposing to divide the State between them. The returns in the tables are given sepa- rately for the two offices. These figures, however, do not represent nearly all that was done for the Commis- sion in the State, for after the organization of the Con- necticut Branch, as well as before, contributions were sent from various communities to the offices in Boston, New York, and Philadelphia. Considerable was done toward a thorough canvass of the State, with good re- sults, and the constant increase of interest and aid for the Commission's work was in every way encouraging. CLEVELAND. A Branch of the Christian Commission was organized in Cleveland, Ohio, May 15, 1804. The officers were. — Stillman Witt, President; Joseph Perkins, Vice-Presi- dent : L. F. Mellen, Secretary ; S. II. Mather, Treasurer; George Mygatt, Receiver. The home field was small, scarcely extending beyond the "Western Reserve," but gave encouraging results for the brief time that it was cultivated. Among the Delegates were "a majority of the leading ministers of Cleveland and vicinity, — >ix pastors of the city having been absent at one time in the work, — and with them many prominent Christian citi- 352 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. zens, officers of the churches, and physicians and sur- geons of experience and distinction." Among the stores forwarded to the army in 1864, mention is made of "three tons of grapes," — which, with their fine aroma of Christian thoughtfulness, helped to comfort many a weary sufferer. MILWAUKEE. The Wisconsin Branch of the Christian Commission was organized in October, 1864, by appointment from the Central Office. The Committee was composed of men from the several Christian denominations, and to some extent from different parts of the State. The headquarters, with a majority of the Committee, were at Milwaukee. The officers were as follows: — Walter S. Carter, Chairman ; John A. Dutcher, Treasurer ; D. W. Perkins, Secretary. For the few months that remained, before the Commission ceased active operations, the Mil- waukee Committee pushed their work vigorously, as their figures in the statistical tables abundantly show. SAN FRANCISCO. The propriety and expediency of sending an agent of the Christian Commission to the Pacific Coast received the attention of the Executive Committee as early as the autumn of 1862. Nothing was done, however, until a year afterward. In October, 1863, the Committee re- quested Mr. Stuart and Kev. Geo. J. Mingins to under- take the proposed agency. Other duties prevented the fulfilment of this request. Six months more passed. In April, 1864, Kev. Dr. Patterson and Mr. Mingins accepted the invitation of the Committee, and sailed for AUXILIARIES. — SAN FRANCISCO. 353 San Francisco, 1 — the former leaving New York on the 4th of that month, and the latter on the 13th. Their arrival seemed to be at an unfavorable time. The Chris- tian Commission had received little or no attention upon the Pacific Coast, and was almost unknown there, while the abounding liberality of the people was seeking the army through other channels. The country was suffer- in- from severe drought, which had brought disaster upon the agricultural and mining interests and sent down the price of stocks. It was by no means certain that the distinctively religious feature of the Commission's work would not exclude it from the favorable notice of all except the membership of the evangelical churches, and even they might possibly doubt the necessity of trans- ferring their benefactions from other established organi- zations to a new one. But a hearing was gained, the value of the work was appreciated, and it was readily acknowledged that what had so signally met the obvious needs of the army must be sustained. Prominent citi- zens, pastors of the churches, and the press, assisted the agents in getting the attention of the public, through general meetings and more private conferences, and before the close of May the Pacific Christ inn Com/nds? si 1 1 n was organized. The officers were, — J. B. Roberts, President; P. Sather, Treasurer; Rev. E. Thomas, Sec- retary; and the office was at '11 Montgomery Street, San Francisco. I\I is. Colonel S. M. Bowman went to California, upon 1 Through the courtesy of David Hoadley, Esq., President of the Panama Railroad Company, and of the other parties interested, all the Commission's agents to the Pacific Const were favored with free passage across the Isthmus, and from Panama to San Francisco. 45 354 AXXALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. a business errand, in the same ship that carried Dr. Pat- terson. Greatly interested in the work of the Christian Commission (being also the sister of its General Secre- tary), and well-known in San Francisco, where she had formerly resided, she gave the influence of her position and acquaintance to the new agency upon the Pacific Coast. Early in June the Ladies' Christian Commission of the Pacific was formed, to co-operate with the Committee of gentlemen, and Mrs. Bowman was chosen President. A Ladies' Fair was soon projected, designed to unite the friends in the city in a special effort for the Commission. It was held during the first fortnight in September, everything objectionable was rigorously excluded from it< management, and the enterprise proved a great suc- cess. By it over $50,000 "were added to the Commis- sion's treasury. On the return of Mrs. Bowman, in the latter part of September, Mrs. Mary E. Keeney (wife of U. S. A. Medical Director at San Francisco) was chosen President of the Ladies" Commission. The work was extended to other towns and communities on the coast, sixteen auxiliaries were constituted, and monthly con- tributions were forwarded to the San Francisco office. This organization of ladies was in existence just one year, and it ceased with their first anniversary, June 7, 1S65. The total amount of money forwarded by it to the cen- tral treasury was $70,113. A few boxes of choice stores were also sent. A pleasant feature in the work of the ladies was the formation of a Youth's Christian Commis- sion, with a handsome certificate and moderate member- ship fee. Rev. Dr. Patterson returned to the East in September, L864, and Mr. Mingins at the close of the year. Eev. AUXII.IAUIES. DTIC \. 355 C. P. Lyford and wife went oul in October,and returned in the latter part of the following April. Rev. H. 1). Lathrop went out in December, and remained until the work ceased in June, L865. These gentlemen visited the principal cities and towns in California, Oregon, Nevada, and Washington Territory. They were every- where welcomed. Auxiliary Committees were organized, and generous contributions forwarded, either directly to the Central Office or through the San Francisco agency. The Pacific Coast was also represented in the army by Delegates from California and Oregon. Rev. Mr. Ris- ing, of Virginia City, Nevada, before removing there, had been one of the very first volunteer laborers in the army, and continued throughout an efficient friend of the Commission. The contributions from the Pacific Coast reached the sum of $175,613.19. OTTCA, NEW YORK. The Central New York Branch of the Christian Com- mission, embracing eleven counties, with headquarters at Utica, was organized November 15,1864. Hon. Win. J. Bacon was President : a Vice- President in each of the counties of the home field ; Roht. S. Williams. Treasurer; Rev. D. \V. Bristol, d.d., Secretary and Agent; Rev. P. H. Fowler, d. d., Chairman of the Executive Committee. The close of the war confined the operations of this Branch to a few months, but during that time a good work was done. Besides the auxiliaries above named there were also Branch Commissions in Providence, Rhode Island; Springfield, Massachusetts : Newark, New Jersey ; liar- 356 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. risburg, Pennsylvania ; Wheeling, West Virginia ; To- ledo, Ohio ; and perhaps in other places, — reporting either to the Central Office or to some more prominent auxiliary. The foregoing enumeration of Branches, each of which was the centre of numerous local societies of various names, will show the method of home organization by which the Commission sought to maintain the public interest in its work, and to secure the necessary resources. One feature of this home organization, however, remains for more particular notice, and that is THE LADIES' CHRISTIAN COMMISSIONS. Mention has already been made of the operations of several Ladies' Christian Commissions, as at Buffalo, Detroit, San Francisco, etc. And everywhere, whether distinctly named or not, the ladies were the most numer- ous and successful workers in providing means for the Commission. In May, 1804, it was proposed to bring- out into greater prominence the agency of the loyal women of the country, as connected with this Christian work. This was thought to be due to the women them- selves, in recognition of their activity, and it was believed that it would also greatly increase the Commission's re- sources. A movement was therefore begun in Philadel- phia, designed to be national, looking to the establish- ment of a Ladies' Christian Commission in every com- munity throughout the loyal States. These Commis- sions were to be organized, either by establishing one in each church, or by forming a union society for all the churches in the same neighborhood, as might seem most desirable in the several localities. It was supposed that AUXILIARIES. LADIES' COMMISSIONS. 357 the smaller towns and villages might prefer union socie- ties, one for each place, while the cities would find it more convenient to organize in each congregation, with perhaps a central hoard for mutual conference and assist- ance. The Ladies' Commissions were to be directly auxiliary to the General Commission, either through the Central Office or the nearest Branch. Membership in the ladies' societies was to be either associate or active. Associate membership might include all of either sex and every age who should pay into the treasury one dollar annually; active membership would include the ladies who gave also of their time and service in collect- ing and preparing clothing and stores for the soldiers. In some cases honorary and life memberships were added. The fees for membership were to be paid entire into the treasury of the Commission, and to be called the "Mem- bership Fund of the Ladies' Christian Commission." Whatever sum might be requisite for the purchase of materials and other expenses was to be raised in addi- tion to the membership i'vi.'s. If these second collections should be more than sufficient for the current expendi- tures, they were to he passed into the treasury as a "Do- nation Fund." Such was the plan. Rev. R. J. Parvin, of Philadelphia, became Chairman of this department of the general work, and Mrs. W. G. Crowell, Secretary, under the direction of a special committee from the Central Executive Committee. Some time was neces- sarily consumed in maturing the organization, and in a few months it was happily rendered' unnecessary by the close of the war. What was actually accomplished may he seen in the following 358 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. REPORT OF THE NATIONAL COMMITTEE ON LADIES' CHRIS- TIAN COMMISSIONS. It was not until the third year of the war that the idea of forming Ladies' Christian Commissions was carried out, so as to assume a tangible form or produce any practical results. Much time was necessarily consumed in inaugurating a movement which was to em- brace in its operations all the loyal territory of the country, and consequently the work was arrested almost in its infancy by the glorious advent of Peace. Much good, however, was done through the instrumentality of this minor agency, even during its short life. There were, at the time of the organization of Ladies' Christian Commissions, very many societies formed among the loyal women of the land, intended to accomplish objects altogether in harmony with the work of the parent society, the results of which were seen and felt on many battle-fields from the commencement of the rebellion. The majority of these subsequently assumed the name of Ladies' Chris- tian Commissions, and continued their labors as such. It has not been possible to secure a complete record of each one of these organi- zations, and from many others of such societies, sending money and goods to the parent society, we have received no official records what- ever; but enough is known of their efficiency, daring the short period of their labors, to make it certain that they would have proved valu- able auxiliaries in administering substantial aid and comfort to the soldier. A record, embracing the name of the society, the date of its organi- zation, a list of its officers, and the amount of cither money or goods contributed to the parent society, has been received from two hundred and sixty-six of these auxiliaries. About eighty of these were in the city of Philadelphia, representing churches of all the evangelical denominations. These contributed during the year, in money, some fifteen thousand dollars. The whole number whose records appear on our books (266) were located in seventeen different States of the Union, and the aggregate of their receipts, as reported to the Com- mission, amounted to nearly two hundred thousand dollars. These figures can by no means convey an adequate idea of the amount of self-denying labor performed by these societies, or the results of such labor. They cannot be estimated. Neither are they complete a> a d x i li a b i i:s. — ladies' commissions. : ')">'. » regards the amount contributed, for the reason that a very large amount of stores and boxes of clothing, prepared by ladies' societies, were forwarded to the Commission, whose valuation could not be obtained. This is particularly true in regard to country localities, especially in the West and North, where stores could be much more easily obtained than money, and the figures in such cases are not just eriterions of the loyalty or liberality of such neighborhoods. Rev. W. E. Boardman (former Secretary of the United States Christian Commission) rendered efficient service in the organization and early history of our Ladies' Christian Commissions. Rev. Geo. J. Mingins was associated with this movement on the Pacific coast. And the ladies of California and Oregon, though so far removed from the fields of deadly conflict, were behind none in their labors and gifts for the soldiers' comfort. The Lord has brought our work, as a Commission, for the welfare of soldiers and sailors, to an end. For whatever of good has been accomplished to His name be all the praise. Robert J. Parvix, Chairman. Mrs. \V. G. Crowell, Secretary. CHAPTER VII. WORK IN THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC [YEAR 1862.] The first deputation of regularly commissioned Dele- gates of the United States Christian Commission left the Central Office, at Philadelphia, for the Army of the Potomac, on the 14th of -May. 1862. They reported to the -Medical Director at Fortress Monroe the following day, and were by hint assigned to duty, — three of the seven on board a hospital transport, the others in the hospitals at Hampton. From this date there was no day, until the final disbandment of the armies, in 1865, when the Commission was without representatives in the hos- pitals and camps of the Army of the Potomac. In describing the operations of the Commission during these eventful years, it is manifestly impossible to detail the experiences and labors of each Delegate, and yet by this course alone could the work be seen in all its magni- tude and importance. Something of its extent and value may be learned, however, from a sketch of the organiza- tion as it was maintained from year to year, the constant object of which was to give the widest possible scope to the influence of the individual Delegate. The general 1 This chapter was prepared by Mr. John A. Cole, General Field Agent of the Commission in the Armies operating against Richmond. StiO AKMY OF THE POTOMAC. — L862. :')C>1 character of the service rendered by Delegates remained the same throughout the war, the work performed by the last delegations differing in no essential respect from that of the first, except as they had increased facilities and the results of past experience. During the year 1862 no permanent field organization was attempted by the Commission. The Delegates, many of whom enlisted tin- only one, two, or three weeks' service, were left, after receiving general instructions at the Central Office, entirely to their own discretion in determining the place and character of their labors. Passes, with free transportation within army lines, were usually granted to Delegates upon the presentation of their credentials, though delays would sometimes occur, particularly when a battle was pending. The boxes oi stores with which they were at first provided contained an assortment of clothing, preserves, wines, crackers, bandages, and rags, all packed together just as they came from the Soldiers' Aid Societies of the North. Old magazines, files of religious papers, and a few packages of tracts and Testaments, made up their stock of reading- matter. Somi after the first Delegates had begun their work in the hospitals at Hampton others came to their assist- ance. A tew went forward to Yorktown, where they found abundant need of their labors. Here tiny ob- tained the use of a Government tent, and, employing a "contraband" for cook, established themselves in what may properly he considered as the firsl "Station" of the Commission. Another delegation went to White House and tu Savage"- Station, going thence to Harrison's Land- ing, when the army crossed the Peninsula, where they 4(i 362 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. worked night and day among the thousands of wounded and exhausted men. Forty-six Delegates in all labored among the soldiers during the campaign on the Penin- sula, — some of them remaining in the field hut a few days, others working for months or until its close. The work accomplished by these early Delegates, although by no means so extensive as that subsequently done, was very valuable. Perhaps never during the war was there creator need of Christian ministrations than on this disastrous campaign in the poisonous swamps of the Chickahominy. Profiting by the experience gained, careful prepara- tions were made at the Central Office in anticipation of coming battles; books were opened for the enrolment of " minute men ;" trunks were packed with assorted battle- field stores ; companies were organized, with experienced captains in charge of each ; food, clothing, and stimulants were purchased and prepared for instant transmission whenever the order should come. Upon the first inti- mation of the battle of South Mountain the minute men started. Clergymen, lawyers, physicians, merchants, mechanics promptly responded to the call. (Some, pass- ing forward rapidly, were on the field during the battle of Antietam. Others arrived the following night and day, with wagon-loads of stores. In a few days nearly seventy Delegates were on the ground, engaged in their work of mercy. Scattered over the field, among the ten thousand wounded men who lay in their bloody garments, in barns and sheds, in door-yards and open fields, with- out beds or shelter, faint and exhausted from hunger, thirst, and pain, without food or care, the Delegates were able to give them precious relief. At night they watched AUMY OF THE POTOMAC. 1862. 3G3 with the wounded while the worn-out surgeons slept, passing with careful step from one to another in answer to their calls, tenderly lilting the helpless, bathing wounds, loosing bandages, kneeling in prayer by the side of the dying, or taking their last message for the friends at borne. By day they prepared soup and drink, built booths of rails and hushes to shelter the men from the burning sun, and helped in a thousand ways when all help was needed. When the wounded had been removed to permanent hospitals, and the medi- cal department had thoroughly organized its force, the necessity for these labors ceased and the work of the minute men was done. There were, however, several hundred men so severely wounded that they could not safely he moved for several months. With these one Delegate, Rev. I. O. Sloan, remained until all had passed away, — some with recovered health, others to their last resting-place in a soldier's grave. A few Delegates visited the army while it remained near Harper's Ferry, and distributed Testaments and held religions services in the camps. After the battle of Fredericksburg, in December, a large party of minute men went to the front, under the direction of Rev. Alexander Reed. They established a. station at Falmouth, near the terminus of the railroad, and another at Aopiia Creek, so that the Delegates, in addi- tion to their usual work, were able to distribute food among the wounded, as they were brought from the field hospitals 10 he loaded upon cars, ami as they were trans- ferred from the cars to the boats. In the mean time the permanent hospitals at Baltimore, Washington, Frederick, and Cumberland had been visited .>, » 64 ANXALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. by Rev. W. E. Boardman, and arrangements made for supplying stores and reading to each. Delegates were also sent to ramp Convalescent, near Alexandria, and to Camp Parole, at Annapolis. At each of those there wore con- stantly from five to twenty thousand soldiers, waiting in crowded tents for an order to join their regiments. In the former camp a station was established early in November, which was from the first a plaee of great interest ; religious meeting- were held each day, and the sick were visited at their tents; many tons of vegetables and other stores were distributed, together with large quantities o\' reading-matter, which did very much to relieve the wretchedness of a place known by its inmates as " Camp Misery." The following extracts from letters and reports will give more clearly than can lie shown in any other way the nature of the work done by the Delegates during this year. Rev. Mr. Sloan, in a report of the work per- formed by the Delegates on the Peninsula, says: — Those who have labored in this noble cause have found that far more is to Vie done than talking, distributing publications, and pray- ing. They have had to nurse, dress wounds, strip off filthy garments, wash from helpless soldiers the blood and dust of hard fights and hard marches ; cleanse them <>( vermin, and put upon them clean and comfortable clothing; dig graves tor the dead ; lift and open boxes; make wearisome visits on foot ; sleep on the ground, or floor, or bags, or bCxes, and ot'ten work from daylight until midnight, or all night Ion-', with little to eat except dry bread or crackers, and meat with- out cooking. Again he says : — We found many sinking with fever and Other diseases, unable to help themselves, with few to help them, in a most wretched condi- tion; clothes not changed, face ami hands not washed for days. We AKMY OF THE POTOMAC. — 1862. 365 spent days, basin, soap, and towel in hand, going from man to man to wash them and change their clothes. In all this work,e\ erywhere, we distributed our stores with our own hands directly to the soldiers; gave them religious reading-matter, and had precious opportunities in whisper in their ears words of salvation, and breathe prayers for God's blessing, and guide the dying to Jesus, and often to address the groups, larger or smaller, as we found them collected together. Mr. Sloan writes at another time: — Y.m can have no conception of the amount of relief afforded bj the contents of the boxes senl to us. The soldiers, too, feel that they are net forgotten ; that those ai home are thinking about them and anxious t" relieve them. Man\ a poor sinking man lias been raised up. through the blessing of God, by the nourishing feed ami delica- cies which we have been enabled to give him. About four days since we visited some tents where t\\<> hundred sick were gathered, in the edge of a pine weeds. We found two men very siek from typhoid fever, in a small tint by themselves. One was delirious, and both seemed OOl far from death. They were lying upon the ground, with nothing hut their overcoats under them. We washed them and put on clean clothes, furnished by our friends at the North, and gave them some nourishing toed. To-day I was greatly surprised to Bnd them much improved, and the surgeon said they would both recover. This is only one instance out of many of the same kind. Rev. Geo. Bringhursl writes to Mr. Stuart from York- town, on June L'O, in giving a report of one of the earliesl deputations : — My pressing engagements among these crushed and sorrowing hearts warn me to be brief in advising you of the wants and move- ments of the deputation, a committee of which is doing good service at this place. On Tuesday evening live hundred sick and wounded men were brought lure from the White House, many of whom had not washed lor ever one week, tin- want of opportunity. These, added to the numher already here, render the work immense. Mr. Sloan is at Savage Station, where his services cannot be dispensed with at present. Mr.Ogden has toiled faithfully, and Is still using 366 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. every effort to make all comfortable and happy. The soldiers declare that had it not been for the aid of the deputation many more ef them must have died. Messrs. Mingins, Wright, and Smith are here; but, my dear brother, this force is nothing- when so much is to be clone. I have attended three funerals during the last eighteen hours, and expect to attend several this afternoon. Send us good working' men, — men who can attend to the body as well as the soul, men who are willing to nurse as well as to preach. Rev. Geo. J. Mingins, in a letter from the same place, says: — As we entered a tent, we were much struck with the appearance of a man evidently fast passing away. lie was fine-looking, dark hair, full, intellectual fate, lustrous eyes. He had no bed but straw on the bare ground. His blanket was filthy : his under-clothing full of vermin. We washed him : changed his clothing : made a cot for him ; placed him on it ; gave him nourishing food ; spoke to him of home, of mother, of Jesus. Slowly turning, he took my hand: drew it to his face; tried to thank me; could not. What then? Tears fell upon the hand he held. His gratitude was made more manifest than words could tell. Mr. Bringlmrst writes from the same place: — After a prayer-meeting in Yorktown, in the month of July, as I was returning to my quarters, my attention was arrested by footsteps behind me. Turning, I met the gaze of a young soldier belonging to a regiment called the "Lost Children." " 0, sir." said he. ""won't you please tell me how I can be a Christian? I was at prayer- meeting to-night, and felt as though I could talk with you." "What made you think of being a Christian ?" I asked. " Why, sir, when I was on guard 1 was thinking of a beautiful hymn I had read in my Soldiers' Hymn Book, beginning, ' Rock of ages, cleft for me,' and 1 wondered if I could not be built upon that Rock." "Cer- tainly you can," I replied; i; shall we pray together?" Then on the dusty roadside, beneath the stars, a prayer went up to God which sent the weary soldier-boy to his duties with a light and happy heart. I afterwards fell in with him, and found him resting on the Rock. AK.MY OF THE POTOMAC. — L862. 367 The following extract from ;i report of Rev. I. O. Sloan, who went in charge of one company of "minute men," may be taken as fairly illustrating the work done by each company : — We lift Washington two days before the battle of Antietam. We succeeded in getting two ambulances, which we loaded with stores from tlie Christian Commission rooms in Washington. We arrived in Middletown early on the morning of the 17th Sept. Hero we found wounded men coming in from the battle-field, for the battle had commenced at daylight or even before that time, — some with fingers shot off, arms broken, wounded in the head, covered with blood, presenting a terrible picture of the slaughter that was going on. The little church on the main street was already filled with our wounded, a- also some of the houses opposite. We stayed here long enough to give out some of our stores, for we found them entirely destitute of lint, bandages, stimulants, and indeed almost everything suitable for the comfort and relief of the suffering. It appears that th( Christian Commission were the lirst that had store.- on the road to the scene of action, and very gratefully were our two ambulance loads received by the surgeons and the men. As we hurried along to wluie the two armies were engaged, we frequently had to stop and give of our supplies to the wounded whom we met in ambu- lances, and who lined the road, hobbling along as best they could, to find some temporary hospital. At Keedysville, about two miles from the battle-field, several houses were filled with wounded. We halted at the last one as we passed through the town. This was used as a hospital fin- the men of Sedgwick's Division. Every room in the house was tilled with wounded, and every spot almost in the yard. The hospital was in charge of Dr. Huston, a good man. who was trying to do all he could for the relief of his patient-, hut they had as vet received no .-tore-, and were entirely without anything to eat. We gave them what we could spare. Some Delegates of our party remained here all dav, dressing wounds, giving nourishment, and arranging for the comfort of the patients. I am sure every one here tilt the importance of our Commission. Indeed, we do not see what they would have done it' it had not been for the supplies we lunl with us. All dav they were still bringing in wounded to this 368 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. place, — many among them seriously wounded, with no hopes of recovery. From the hills a little beyond here the terrible conflict was plainly visible, but we had not much time to witness the progress of the battle, all our time being taken up in attending to the wounded and in bringing them to the hospital. Nearly every farm-house and barn in all that region was made a hospital. The names of some, such as White House Hospital, Hoffman's Farm, Stone House, and others, will ever be familiar in connection with the battle. We visited all these and left some supplies. Several members of the Christian Commission, who had come by other routes, we found at each hospital, doing great good. They, as well as ourselves, had a good supply of stores. At the White House Hospital there were probably two thousand wounded brought in. A large number of these were of the Southern army. At the Hoffman Hospital there were at least fifteen hundred, and at the Stone House as many if not more. On Sunday succeeding the battle we established ourselves permanently at the Hoffman House, thinking it better to concentrate our energies upon one point. In every spot here, — the barn, the stable, carriage-house, sheds, straw stacks, orchards, and indeed every- where, — were to be seen wounded and dying men. For the first few days, of course, all was bustle and confusion. Nothing scarcely could be thought of but affording relief to the sufferers. Prayer only could be made at the side of one drawing near to his end, or words of Scripture whispered into the ear of the moaning patient as we dressed his wound or gave him nourishment. We had scarcely a moment for sleep. Many incidents of thrilling interest occurred here. A great proportion of the sufferers were youths, ranging from sixteen up to twenty-one years. After a few days, when matters were somewhat systematized, we had religious services every even- ing, — in the barn, in the dwelling-house, carriage-house, and wherever there was a large number collected. Rev. Geo. B. Buzzell gives the following description of the station at Falmouth : — Our camp at Falmouth Station will never be forgotten by the Delegates, wdio were at work there after the battle of Fredericks- burg. Just south of us was the river, — only a few rods, — and on ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. 18G3. 'M'tU the heights beyond we could see the rebel camp-fires by night and the spires of Fredericksburg byday,and being close to the railroad we were of course in the midst of the confusion and noise of the trans- portation of men and supplies. But being there we -were in the midst of our work. The wounded, brought for transportation to A.cquia Creek and Washington, were sometimes kept waiting for hours in the ambulances, or laid on the open platform on the ground, close by our camp-fire, which was seldom without its row of smoking kettles. To U-r<\ the hungry, worn-out men, to refresh and cheer them, and talk to them of Jesus Christ, when our words seemed to strike the same subject with which their own thoughts were busy, — this was a work to thank God for. The value of the work done by our men there is beyond computation. [YEAR 1863.] Iii preparing for the labors of another year the Com- mission made several important changes in the method of conducting its field work. The rapidly increasing number of Delegates who now offered their services, and the corresponding increase of stores that poured in to the Central Office from every direction, necessitated a more thorough organization than that which had hitherto proved sufficient. It was therefore decided to employ a limited number of permanent agents; who should remain constantly with the army and personally superintend the wort of the Commission in all parts of the field. The term of service for which Delegates were received was also extended, all Delegates being required tit pledge themselves " to take the position to which they should be assigned by the agent of the Commission, and to con- tinue in the work not less than six weeks." Extensive arrangements for securing a full assortment of religious reading for distribution among the men in camp were also made. The supply now provided comprised Testa- 47 370 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. ments and portions of the Scriptures, soldiers' hymn and tune books, knapsack books, — of many kinds, with flexible covers, — weekly religions papers from all parts of the country, and the monthly papers published by the Tract Societies. Mr. John A. Cole, who had already served as a Dele- gate for nearly six months, was appointed General Field Agent of a district comprising the Army of the Potomac and the hospitals and camps of Washington, Maryland, and Western Virginia. Messrs. T. R. Ewing and J. R. Miller, who entered the service of the Commission as Delegates, in March, were retained as Field Agents upon the expiration of their terms. Mr. Ewing was obliged to leave the field in July. Mr. Miller remained until October, when he was appointed General Field Agent in the Department of the Ohio, — Mr. Chas. W. Jenkins taking his place in the Army of the Potomac. Messrs. F. E. Shearer, E. F. Williams, and J. R. Miller, assisted by R. G. McCreary, Esq., and other efficient volunteers, directed the extensive operations of the Commission at Gettysburg during the months of July and August. Rev. B. F. Hamilton was permanently employed as agent at Camp Parole, Annapolis, where there were from 15,000 to 20,000 paroled prisoners constantly encamped. In the work of this year the agents of the Commission everywhere received the kindest consideration from army officers, and were aided by them materially in many ways. Passes were given by the Provost Marshal General to all registered Delegates, admitting them to every part of the army and securing free transportation upon government trains and boats. Besides this great advantage, the agents were permitted the free use of the AlOIY OF THE POTOMAC. ISC,;:. 371 military telegraph lines, and the right to purchase sup- plies for their stations, of any brigade commissary, at officers' prices. Post and depot quartermasters also were authorized to aid the Commission by furnishing buildings, tents, wagons, ambulances, etc., for its use, whenever this could be done without detriment to the public service. With these advantages the agents were able to estab- lish and maintain stations in every part of the army, so long as it was encamped in winter quarters. When the active Campaign opened, however, it was found that these facilities could no longer be depended upon to that extent which was essential to an efficient prosecution of the "work. It became necessary, therefore, to purchase wagons, horses, and tents, so that, whatever the exigen- cies of the public service might be, the Commission could at all times keep its corps of Delegates at the points where their services were most required, and supply them promptly with all needed stores. The first four- horse wagon was purchased in July, and, after a narrow escape from Mosby's guerrillas, reached the army, then encamped near Warrenton. It proved so useful that another was added in November, as there were indica- tions of a winter campaign. In August two large chapel tents were purchased and used at the front. They were pitched near large bodies of troops, and opened for reli- gious services every evening, while during the day they were the centres to which chaplains and soldiers came from all parts of the army, for packages of Testaments, hymn-hooks, and papers. The success attending the meetings in these chapels prepared the way for the winter's work, in anticipation of which twelve expensive 372 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. and commodious chapel tents were procured for the permanent stations. The number of Delegates in the field varied consider- ably during the year. In January there were but five or six ; in February the average number in the held was ten; in March, twenty-five ; in May, thirty-five.; — the average continuing at about this number for the re- mainder of the year. In addition to these were the special battle-field Delegates and minute men. who usu- ally remained in the work but two or three weeks, re- turning when the emergency had passed for which they had volunteered. The amount of religious reading was greatly increased during the year. For the month of September the dis- tribution at the front and in the Washington hospitals amounted to 75,200 religious papers, representing twenty- two different publications, 6,900 hymn books, 13,200 knapsack books, and 63,000 pages of tracts. This was about the average monthly distribution for the remainder of the year. The systematic distribution of this material was one of the most important features of the year's work. It began, most happily, with the attempt to fur- nish every soldier who might desire it with a copy of the New Testament. This, the first combined effort ever attempted by the Delegates, resulted, during the months of March and April, in the distribution of over 35,000 copies in the Army of the Potomac alone. Another most important feature was the evening prayer-meeting, which was, in accordance with the set- tled policy of the Commission, held at every station every night in the week. These meetings were a source of great comfort and profit to the soldiers, who in winter ai;my of the potomac. — isr,::. :'>7d and summer came, some of them from distant camps, to these tents of prayer. Their influence was often felt to a remarkable degree through entire brigades and divi- sions, checking profanity to such an extent as to be ob- served by all. The manner of conducting these meet- ings varied, but usually a short address by one of the Delegates preceded the hour spent in exhortation and prayer, in which both soldiers and Delegates freely en- gaged. The hymns loved at home by the followers of Jesus were precious here, and their notes were wafted nightly over the camps and through hospital wards, till- ing many a troubled heart with thoughts of home ami heaven. The following extracts from the Report of the Gene- ral Field Agent will furnish some details of the opera- tions of the Commission during the year: — The month of January, 1863, found the Army of the Potomac on tin- north bank of the Rappahannock, opposite the heights of Fred- ericksburg, where, but :i tew days before, thousands of brave nun had gone down in battle. The warm, pleasant days still delayed the order for " winter-quarters," but all believed the active campaign had closed, and that months of rest must intervene before the eontliet would be renewed. The Christian Commission had at this time two stations ; one at the shanty village of Aeipiia, the other at the railroad terminus opposite the city of Fredericksburg. The first consisted of a rough board barrack, fifteen feel by twenty, its front door opening upon the marsh: the other a tent, fourteen feet by fourteen; — both being ted to us by the quartermaster of the post. In these quarters, rude and limited as they were, a work, great in amount and variety, was performed. Here the Delegates of the Commission lived ; upon this floor, and upon the three stories of the rude scaffolding that adorned one side of the room, slept the weary workers after their day of toil, and with them as nianv belated travellers its could tiinl 374 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. a resting-place. Here, upon shelves and in boxes, were the supplies sent for the needy, from East and North and West; here a pile of Testaments, there a box of hymn books ; in this corner a huge stack of religious papers and tracts; on the other side, shelves tilled with dried fruits, preserved fruits, domestic wines ; and in these boxes generous piles of warm shirts, socks, and drawers. On a shelf, seldom reached, were bags of lint, bandages and rags, lanterns and pails, brandy and soup, — the suggestive equipment for the battle- field. Here in the day was a constant stream of chaplains, and surgeons, ami soldiers, coming for the weekly supply of reading for the regiment, some hospital luxuries for the sick, or for the little "housewife," with its needles and thread and much-prized letter; Delegates coining and going, taking their leads in arms and haver- sacks, as they go to distant hospitals and camps, bearing the word of life or refreshment for frail bodies. Here at night, the boxes placed in rows, the table set on one side, the little room was filled with a company of worshippers, met for the praise of (I. id. The work of the Christian Commission in the army was one of constant change. The year, indeed, was made up of many distinct campaigns, the one differing so greatly from the other that, although the same men were actors in each, one would with difficulty identify them as the same. This week the Delegates may be distributing religious papers ami books, preaching the Gospel to crowds of healthy, vigorous men ; the next, preparing with their own hands some soothing draught or nourishing food for those who are languish- ing with disease in some remote hospital. This week preparing reading-rooms and chapels, feeding the mind with that which is wholesome and abiding, inciting to temperance, purity, and piety ; the next, with coats nil', before a tire of logs, cooking coffee and soup for the hungry, or bearing stimulants and nutriment to those who are perishing. To-day, living quietly in " winter quarters ; " to-mor- row, off for the battle-field, with a blanket alone for house and shelter. During the month of January, at the stations before mentioned, the Delegates of the Commission performed a twofold work, — one party with a wagon visiting camps and field hospitals, taking both hospital stores and religious reading: tin- other remaining at the station, preparing food and drink for the hundreds of sick who, on ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. 1863. '■' their way to the hospital, were detained sometimes many hours at the railroad station. Before the close of the month, however, a new and more important Held was opened. The army made one more attempt to gain the heights of Fredericksburg before resting in winter quarters. Again the effort failed. Scarcely had the long lines of infantry, cavalry, and artillery started upon their rapid night- march when a terrible storm of rain and sleet arose, breaking up the mads and making all advance impossible, ('hilled and exhausted, floundering through the mud in the bitter cold wind of that winter night, the soldiers struggled back to their cheerless camps, but thou- sands who had escaped unharmed from a score of battles now fell the victims of this memorable " mud campaign." A field hospital was established immediately at Windmill Point, a few miles below Acquia ( !r< ek. It was a city of tents, laid out in immense diamond- shaped enclosure.-, on a level plain which had lately been a cultivated field. Streets were laid out, ditches were dug, and a wharf built, but long before the wards were ready for their inmates the >ick began to arrive in boats and in ambulances from all parts of the army. The rain fell almost incessantly, and the whole camp presented a scene wretched in the extreme. Thousands of pale, weak, disease- stricken men lav for days in the fireless tents, on the muddy floors, or on beds of pole- or boughs, suffering from cold and from hunger. Many died daily, and the mounds of sand in the lone " God's acre" told a sad story of the cruel necessities of war. To this scene of distress the Delegates came. A small tent served as their storehouse and quarters. A dispatch to Washington and Philadelphia -.on furnished them with a thousand loaves of soft bread, and boxes of' clothing, cordials, and fruits. These they distributed throughout the camp, wherever the need was most urgent. They passed from tent to tent, ministering to the physical want- of the suffering, and direct- ing the hearts of all to Jesus, the great Physician of souls. Often they were called to the side of the dying, to give counsel in that last trying hour, and commit the departing Soul to God. The ih Lid were followed to the grave with the rites of Christian burial, and the record of the last moments and of the place of intermenl forwarded to the distant home friends. After the work of thedaythe Delegates would go from tint to tent, and read a few verses of Scripture and offer a prayer for God's blessing upon all. The effect of these 370 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. ministrations was very manifest. Many who seemed near to death were recovered by the tender nursing and nutritious food. As the condition of the hospital improved, the Delegates found more time to devote to the spiritual wants of the men. An empty cookhouse was obtained for a chapel, where services were held on the Sabbath, and meetings for prayer each evening of the week. All felt the presence of the Holy Spirit. At one meeting fifty persons announced their desire and determination to begin a Christian life. Many who had come to that dreary camp a few weeks before, as they thought to die, found life instead, even life eternal. It was suddenly decided to break up this camp, sending the sick to regimental hospitals, and those most feeble to the hospitals at Washington and Alexandria. It was quickly done, and the experiences and labors at Windmill Point Hospital were for ever at an end. This campaign over, vigorous measures were taken for the next. Acting upon the experience gained at Windmill Point, it was resolved to undertake to supply every regiment in the army with copies of the New Testament. To do this more stations would be required, and more Delegates and stores needed. These were forth- coming, and until the 3d of May stations were in successful opera- tion at Acquia Creek, Belle Plain, White Oak Church, Falmouth Station. Falmouth Village, and Stoneman's Siding. Although this supply of Testaments was for the time being the first object of the stations, it was far from being their principal work. Each station was complete in itself, and contained from three to seven Del gates. Hospital stores. Testaments, and religious reading were at each, and were distributed under the direction of committees appointed for the purpose. At each, where practicable, a house or tent for religious worship was secured and meetings held every evening, while on the Sabbath appointments for preaching to regiments or brigades were filled by the clerical Delegates. One of the number, usually the oldest Delegate, acted as station agent, and early in the morning the different Delegates, assigned to their various duties, would separate, — one with an ambulance-load of quilts, dried fruit, or clothing, for a distant hospital: another making the round of the regiments to collect and till orders for Testaments ; others with bundles of books and papers, distributing among destitute companies. So the busy day was filled, until at evening all would meet, and, with the sol- ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. — 1863. :177 diers who crowded the room or tent, ask God's blessing upon the labors of the day. Stoneman's Station was the scene of a remarkable revival. The tents used as a chapel formed a room nearly sixty feet long. Meet- ings were held nightly, and to them officers and men came in erowds. The tents stood upon an elevation, commanding an extended view, and, as the evening hour drew near, men, singly and in squads ami companies, could be seen wending their way from the various camps towards the house of prayer. "Mount Zion," the soldiers called it ; and, like Mount Zion of old, it was indeed "beautiful" when, crowded to its utmost capacity and throngs about the open doors, strains of some familiar home-loved hymn floated out upon the evening air. Here were heard, from veterans who had passed through all the temptations and trials of a soldier's life, testimonies of the strength ami comfort they had experienced all the way along from tin' religion of Jesus; here soldiers would ask what they should do to he saved; and here many, with joy beaming on the counte- nance, would tell of the blessing they had found in the assurance of sins forgiven through the blood of Christ. The number of men who in these meetings gained a knowledge of Jesus no earthly record will ever show; but we know that there were scores who dated the commencement of their Christian life from those meetings at Stone- man's, and hundreds, many of whom have joined the company of saints in heaven, will thank God through eternity for His spirit there bestowed. Falmouth Village presented a most interesting field for our station labor, and one, too, quite different from that at Stoneman's. The Commission there occupied a large room in a private house, the owner being away on business connected with the Southern Con- federacy. An old tobacco warehouse on the very banks of the river, within hail of the rebel pickets, was cleared of rubbish, the broken ceiling and windows were covered with old canvas ami a -mall table, borrowed from a neighboring cottage, served for a pulpit. Here, on Sabbath afternoons and on each evening of the week, meetings were held which were largely attended, and here, too. the preaching of the truth was made salvation to many erring souls. The village itself was a ruin; its church ung lines of infantry, with colors flying, but with the sound of neither fife nor drum, marched steadily and silently away, — away for yet another stern grapple with the country's foe. Nothing more remained for us at the old stations, and so, with haste and many regrets that work so precious must now be sealed up forever, we rolled up our tents, removed our stores, and prepared for our next campaign. It came almost before we were ready for it. After many rumors of as many different movements, we learned that our forces had crossed the Rappahannock, and a battle had been fought twelve or fifteen miles up the river. A detachment of our corps of Delegates accompanied the army in connection with General Whipple's Division, and were under fire during the battle, taking care of the wounded. A council o\^ the Delegates remaining was called, and it was deemed best to divide the force into two parties, — one to go directly to the battle-field, the other to remain at Falmouth, where it was expected a fierce battle would be fought. The plan was soon carried out, and a Government wagon was loaded with such stores as previous experience had shown to be useful, and ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. — 1803. 379 started for United States Ford. Threading their way through w 1- and Gelds tillrtl with wagons, ambulances, and nun-, after a journey of many hours the ford was reached. No wagons were allowed beyond; so the load was taken out, a place for camp selected, and the wagon sent back to Falmouth. There was do lark of work, — on all sides, at ever] bouse and barn ami shed, in gardens ami door-yards, under trees ami the shelter of walls, lay wounded ami bleeding men. With soap and bandages and pails, strong anus ami willing hearts, the services of these Delegates were offered to the surgeons in charge and gladly accepted, and from that time they were hard at work. Their supply of stimulants and food was soon ex- hausted, hut was reinforced by another wagon-load sent from Falmouth. The party left behind in the mean time were not idle. The Second and Sixth Corps, storming the heights of Fredericksburg, carried everything before them in victory. The "old flag" waved in triumph from height to height ; but in the city the red signals hanging at every corner, at church-doors, and the market-place, told how fearful was the cost, — hospitals on every side, houses filled with the prostrate forms of dying men. who but an hour ago rushed forward to the charge. Hut why tarry here? No pen can describe such scenes or record such labors. The history of Chancellorsville is known by all; its gallant achievements, its bitter disappointment, its herculean labors, and its fruitless end. It is enough to say that the Delegates of the Christian Commission worked amid those scenes as anv other fathers or brothers would have toiled, had they been permitted to be there. Wearied and sad, the remnant of the gnat army came back to the "Id camps. The old walls are again covered and echo to the sound- of life ; but how many whose voice- one week before were heard in the cabins and the streets are now forever silent in the soldier's grave ! Field hospitals were now established, or rather enlarged, for the tent- had been rising for two or three weeks before the battle, in anticipation of it. The wounded were taken as quickly as might be to the corps hospitals. These hospitals were as extensive as that at Windmill Point, and stretched over greater territory. .Miles in some Gases intervened between the COrpS, and it wa- found that several stations or centres would be necessary to supply them. If . 380 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. was a new work for the Delegates of the Commission. Three main stations were located in close proximity to the hospitals, and were known as Potomac Creek, Howard, and Brook's Stations. Acquia Creek was still our base for supplies ; but a new tent was pitched beyond and above the fever-breeding marsh, bringing the Delegates nearer to the First and Twelfth Corps hospitals. Although at first and for several days the time was chiefly taken up in dressing wounds and helping to bathe and comfort the wounded, a system was soon arranged, giving a certain district or number of tents to each Delegate. The first duty was to search out those who needed special articles of diet, or who required new shirts, drawers, or sucks, supplying the wants of each personally as they were found from day to day. Boxes of lemons, jars of preserves, and an abundant variety of "good things," put up by friends of the soldier months before, were now given out freely by the hands of the Delegates themselves. The stuck of the Commission was almost exhausted by the calls made from each station for shirts and socks, bandages and lint, soap and towels, handkerchiefs and slings, dried fruits and preserves, pickles and lemons. Almost everything that the kind hearts of donors had prompted them to send found thankful recipients in these vast field hospitals. To divert the minds of the convalescing as much as possible from their own condition libraries were sent to the stations, whose books were greatly prized. Funerals, sometimes eight a day, were attended by the Delegates, and as a crowd of soldiers gathered about the grave of a comrade the opportunity was not lost in leading their thoughts to the resurrection of the dead, when all should meet again. On the Sabbath regular religious services were held, some in the open air, some in booths and tents, and each evening at the station chapel a prayer-meeting was held, often crowded to its utmost capacity. Among the interesting features of this campaign was the number of letters written for wounded men. The weekly reports show that hundreds of letters were written to home friends, who otherwise would have been left long in anxious suspense and doubt as to the condition of the loved son or husband whom the papers had reported " wounded in the battle of Chancellorsville." Very exhausting both to mind and body were these incessant labors, and nearly every Dele- ai:my of the potomac. — 1863, 381 gate became worn out by excessive fatigue, and some barely escaped the grave. Those were precious services indeed rendered by the Delegates of the Christian Commission, who as pastors and friends came to bring home-comforts and spiritual consolation to the thou- sands of maimed, dying soldiers. Precious services, thai wealth could never purchase, and for which the Christian Church, East and West, has great reason to rejoice. Thus week after week passed away, bringing back health, strength, and vigor to many, but closing the earthly career of hundreds of those who lay upon the rude cots of these strange, sad cities of the wounded. The heat of summer followed the delightful days of spring. Still the Army of the Potomac lay quiet and harmless in the old winter camps. •* Why, this looks like a ' move,' captain !" said the field agent to the quartermaster at Falmouth, as an unusual activity was observed. "And that it is," was the laconic answer. "When will you require our tent?" " Before five o'clock." " You shall have it, sir." And this was the first intimation the Christian Commission had of that grand movement which in two short weeks formed the Army of the Potomac in line of battle on " Round Top" and "Cemetery Hill." Two hours in which to break up housekeeping! Yet in two hours the stores and household implements were packed, and the tent that for six months had been known to us as the " Falmouth Station" was rolled up and " turned in" to the quartermaster. There was "mounting in hot haste" that afternoon, and a rapid ride from one to another of the seven stations then in operation. "Pack up and strike tents" was the order of the hour, and busy hands made quick work of it. At Potomac Creek was a wonderful chapel, just completed, built by Delegates and soldiers, framed of poles cut from the woods and covered with old canvas collected from deserted camps. The next day was the Sabbath, and then this chapel was to he dedicated with impressive ceremonies; but that night the sky was lurid with the flames of the burning church. That Sabbath was a busy day. From early (lawn till evening was every man in the Commission hard at work. Some were aiding to remove (he sick anil wounded, who first of' all were sent by boat to Washington; others wen' striking tents, boxing up stores, loading wagons, unloading cars, and finally loading all upon a barge that 382 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. lay by the wharf, amid such confusion as beggars all description. At night everything was safely loaded, and the next day housed in the rooms in Washington. But there was now no time for rest or delay ; before night messen- gers were on their way to Fairfax Court-house, where was a station of the Commission, and where it was expected the army would lie found. Nor were we disappointed. The line of the army extended from Fairfax over the Bull Run battle-field, stretching its right wing nearly to the Potomac. It was thought by many that another battle would be fought near the old fields of Bull Run and Chantilly, but a few days revealed the fact that the enemy had crossed the Potomac and were rapidly marching towards Pennsylvania. In the mean time a party Of Delegates, with a full equipment of stores, had pitched their tent near Fairfax depot. This was not clone in vain, for, during the four days the tent remained, between live and six hundred wounded and sick men were fed. Being apprised of the coming of long trains of ambulances bearing the wounded, — three hundred, who had fallen at Aldio, — hoi coffee, with sugar and milk, together with fresh bread, were waiting the nearly starved sufferers as they reached the cars. Seldom is a feast welcomed with greater joy than was that. Tears of gratitude were upon many cheeks. There was no one else who could have furnished this food to them, and if the Christian Commis- sion had not been at hand, twelve or fifteen hours more would have passed before the poor sufferers, weak and fainting with hunger, would have found food. On the night following the hoqjitals of three cavalry brigades, lying at Fairfax Court-house, were suddenly broken up. and the patients, between two and three hundred in number, some of them in a dying state, carried in ambulances, over the roughest of all roads, to Fairfax Station, where many of them lay for hours on the floor of the depot, awaiting transportation to Washington. The Delegates, who had been engaged all the previous night in their labor of love, now devoted themselves with fresh zeal to the work of feeding and nursing the wounded. They provided, as they were able, for the sick, going around among them, giving them drink, — coffee, tea. lemonade, — giving bread spread with sweet butter and tempting pre- serves, while speaking words of cheer as they continued their work. AKMY OF the ROTOMAC. — isc,;:. 383 Said the master of transportation to one of the Delegates, with tears rolling down his cheeks, " I had made up my mind that these Com- missions were a humbug, but I tell you what it is, if there is any Christianity it is in the Christian Commission." Everything now was veiled in obscurity. None could tell where the enemy were. Rumors of all sorts rilled the air. Nothing could be done further than to fall back to Washington and Baltimore, pre- pare a large supply of battle-field stores, anil stand ready to start forward whenever the word came. It came at last, after long days of suspense, — the story of the first day's fight at Gettysburg. At mice Delegates started tor (lie Held, and before the smoke of the battle hail cleared away, they wire among the mangled forms of the fallen, doing with their might what- ever their hands found to do. From this time, every train brought fresh supplies of men and stores, until over three hundred Delegates, each assigned to his speeial post, with ample stores at his disposal, wiir seeking to alleviate the horrors of that bloody field. The supply station of the Commission was established in the vil- lage of Gettysburg, a large storehouse being used as a depot for the reception and distribution of supplies. The amount of business transacted at this station may hi 1 seen in the fact that in addition to the labors connected with the reception of Delegates and their assignment to their speeial fields, there were in a little over one month's time about twenty-five hundred eases of stores distributed, valued at seventy-five thousand dollars. On some days a thousand loaves of bread were given out, large " Pennsylvania loaves," sent by wagon-loads to our station day after day. by the "Patriot Daugh- ters" of Lancaster, and the generous-hearted men and women of York. Carlisle, Columbia, Harrisburg, and indeed nearly every town in that part of the State. Every day army wagons were loaded with provisions, clothing, wines, preserves, medicines, etc., for the corps station, and ambulances and smaller wagons sent with needed stores to the smaller hospitals and to companies scattered here and there all over the field. The Commission received very great assist- ance at this station from the people of Gettysburg. Many of the leading citizens opened their houses for the accommodation of I tele- gate.-, while others gave their personal services most unremittingly in opening and assorting hoxes of stores, copying invoices, answering 384 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. the letters of inquiry from friends of soldiers, and in many ways giving increased efficiency to the station. An important feature of the Commission's work was the opening of feeding stations for soldiers while on their way to permanent hos- pitals. One of these was opened in the village, after the battle, to feed the thousands of men who, weary, weak from loss of blood, hungry and disheartened, came pouring in from the various field hospitals three or four miles from town, hoping to find cars ready to take them to Baltimore or Philadelphia. Another was, by request of the Medical inspector, opened at Hanover Junction, when the wounded began to be removed in large numbers to the permanent hospitals of more Northern cities. Here many thousands of soldiers were fed, the trains being halted for this purpose; every man received suitable food and drink. 80011 after the close of the battle, stations of the Commission were also established in the corps hospitals. A competent Delegate was appointed to take charge of each, and other Delegates assigned to work under his direction, subject, however, to the orders of the surgeon in charge, to whom all were to report themselves in the first instance for instruction in the work which they should perform. In the hospitals of every corps, except the Sixth, there was a tent occupied by the stores and Delegates of the Commission. The work in these corps hospitals, though in many respects similar to that done by the Delegates after the battle of Chancellorsville, was yet in many points quite unlike that, and could be fully represented only by a detailed description of each station, as shown by the reports of the Delegates themselves. Mr. Williams, ill his report of this field, gives the following account of one of these stations : — In some respects the work in the Second Corps hospital was the most inte- resting anil important. There were at least twenty-five hundred wounded nun in tliis hospital, which was located at first (though afterwards removed to a better situation) in a grove about a mile south of the Baltimore pike, and between two ami three miles from town. The men here were in a terrible con- dition. They lay upon the damp ground, many of them with nothing under them. In this hospital there was an unusually large number of amputations, the amputated stumps lying directly upon the ground, except when now and then elevated a little upon a handful of straw or a bunch of old rags. Many ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. — 1863. 385 of the in. n. perhaps most of them, were in want of clothing. Suitable food was nut to be had. The surgeons were overworked, '['here was an insufficient number of attendants, — eveiy able-bodied man that could possibly be spared having accompanied the army in its pursuit of Lee. Into this field, as already intimated, the Christian Commission entered. A tent was pitched, at first in the Third Division of the Second Corps?, under the direction of Rev. .1. E. Adams, of New Sharon, Maine, and .). IS. Stillson, Esq., of Rochester, N. V. Sere a dozen or more Delegates had their headquarters, while they sought t<> alleviate pain, with all the energy which the sight of Suffering ran arouse. Another tent, and still another, was pitched in the First and Second Divisions of the same corps, where the Rev. K. C. Matlack, with a company of Delegates from Philadelphia, and Mrs. Moore and her daughter, sent by the Commission from Baltimore, labored incessaijtly lor several weeks. Other ladies, from different parts of Pennsylvania, did a good work in this corps, , king and supplying choice dishes of nourishing food for the lan- guishing nun. There were nearly or quite a thousand rebels, most of them severely wounded, lying on the outskirts of this hospital, shrieking and crying for assistance continually. The appearance of those connected with the hospital of the Third Division of this corps beggars description. Destitute of clothing, many of them nearly naked and covered with filth, without tents, lying in the mud, — for the Midden rise of the little stream by which they had been placed rendered ii impossible to avoid this, — cursing, praying, begging their atten- dants or visitors to put an end to their sufferings by taking their lives, here one and yonder another laid out by himself to die, these wretched men made the strongest appeal to Christian sympathy and benevolence. Nor was their appeal unheeded. Physicians who had come out under the direction of the Commission were immediately sent to their relief, to dress their wounds ami to prescribe for their necessities, while stores were freely distributed among them by Messrs. Adams and Stillson ami their associates. Nor did this work cease till every wounded man was made comfortable, every wound dressed, every necessary amputation performed, tents issued for their accommodation, under- clothing distributed, and those who were able to endure it sent to Baltimore or Philadelphia, while the rest were conveyed to the general hospital established on the other side of the town. Hardly less thorough than this was the work performed in the First and Second Divisions of the corps. Mr. Matlack and those associated with him were untiring in their efforts to make our soldiers comfortable, dressing wounds themselves, giving without stint while their stores held out. then telegraphing to Philadelphia for more, and only remitting their exertions when the necessity for them had passed away. When all who could he had been removed to the general hospital, there were ileal l\ lour hundred left on the ground, severe cases of amputation, com- pound fracture, etc., of whom probably not more than one-third lived. Among 49 38G ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. these men, many of whom suffered excruciatingly, some of our Delegates con- tinued to labor till the last, through the surgeons and in connection with other Commissions supplying their bodily wants, but seeking chiefly to direct them to the Great Physician for the healing of the soul. Many gave evidence of a renewed state. Especially was this true among the rebels. And as the Dele- gates went through their tents you would hear the inmates invoke blesssings upon their heads, and beg them to stop and pray and sing. Every station occupied by the Commission on this field of blood is worthy of a special record. Suffice it to say, however, that at every point of this field, as at other fields of like character, the effort to re- lieve the temporal wants of the dying was blended with Christian counsel and consolation for their spiritual necessities, and as ever before, so here the Holy Spirit attended such ministrations with the Divine blessing. Besides this corps of Delegates among the hospitals of Gettysburg, another strong force, with ample and well-selected stores, followed the army in its pursuit, of the enemy to the Potomac, in anticipation of another battle, but were spared the painful sights and duties for which they were prepared. In connection with this reference to the work at Gettysburg the subjoined letter of R. G. McCreary, Esq., will be found of historic interest and value. Mr. McCreary is a prominent citizen and lawyer of that place, was one of the most indefatigable laborers through all the time that the Commission retained direct control of the work, and subsequently took the entire supervi- sion of it as Chairman of the Army Committee to whom it was assigned, when the field agents of the Commission were withdrawn for other and more urgent service else- where : — Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Geokcje H. Stuart, Esq., — Dear Sir : Our Christian Commission work here is finished; the thousands of wounded men lately around us have gone ; the tents that whitened our fields have been removed ; the " pomp and circum- stance of war," infantry, artillery, cavalry, ambulance and army AH.MY (>K Till', POTOMAC. 1863. 387 wagon, have disappeared from our streets; all have gone save the " unreturning brave," whose bivouac covers the slope of Cemetery Hill, and the thousands of their deluded foes, who, with valor worthy of a better cause, threw away their lives in vain efforts to break the wall of fire and steel which crossed their path to victory, and whose undistinguished graves dot and sear the landscape for miles around, Being resident here, my work commenced with the movements preceding the great struggle of the first days of duly, which decided the fate of the national capital, and probably of the Southern Con- federacy. For several days previous the movements of detached portions of the hostile armies, like scudding clouds whose rapid and diverse flighl precede and portend the hurricane, seemed plainly to indicate the approach of the tremendous conflict of those days. On the 26th day of June a regiment of Pennsylvania volunteers arrived from Harrisburg, and marched to Marsh Creek on the Chambers- burg turnpike, from which direction it was understood a portion of the rebel army threatened an advance. After their departure my attention was called to two young men, lying in a wet and dirty apart- ment :il the railroad station, sick and unable to travel. I had them immediately taken to my house and put to lied, where, by medical skill and careful nursing, they were so far recovered in a tew days as to bo able to join a party of their comrades in a successful attempt to reach their regiment, which in the mean time had made a li:i-l\ retreat before the advance of Early's division of Ewell's corps, which occupied the town on the 26th of dime, and the next day moved on towards the Susquehanna. Two days later a brigade of cavalry, under General Kopelin, arrived from the direction of Frederick, Maryland, and, as they expected a light and had no hospital Stores, at the request of their surgeon a number of our ladies were assem- bled, and the Sabbath was spent in the preparation of lint and blind- ages. They were not needed, however, as the cavalry tell back the next morning; but the supply thus provided proved very valuable a few days later. < )n the morning of the 30th of June a strong reconnoitoring force of rebels advanced, on the ( 'hambershurg turnpike, to the Seminary ridge overlooking the town : they interrogated a citizen as to the pres- ence id' " Yankee soldiers," and were told that there were a great many in the neighborhood. This information, false in fact, and in- 3SS ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. tended to deceive, may have prevented them from taking possession of the town at that time, and they fell back several miles towards the mountains. In the afternoon of the same day Buford's cavalry division entered the town from the South, and passed a mile to the Northwest on the Chambersburg and Manassasburg turnpikes, and halted for the night. Their medical officer requested accommoda- tions for six or eight men of the command who were sick. 1 pro- cured the use of the railroad depot, and with a couple of assistants soon had it cleared out and twenty comfortable beds carried in and arranged, ami tiny were soon all tilled with suffering men, for whom an abundant supply of suitable food and delicacies was speedily fur- nished by the families in the neighborhood, until the events of the succeeding day caused them to be removed to the rear of our army. The battle on the first of July commenced about the middle of the forenoon, between the rebels advancing on the Chambersburg turn- pike and Buford's cavalry, who, as the infantry of the First Army Corps came up and formed in line of battle, slowly retired to the rear. The approaching storm was watched with intense anxiety by the citizens, who, crowding to their housetops, cheered the advance of our brave troops; but it was not long until the boom of cannon, the bursting of shell, the rattle and crash of heavy infantry firing along the ridges West of the town, and the stream of litters which began to move in from the field of carnage, brought them to realize the fact that a fierce and bloody contest was in progress. I '(-rending from my chimney-top, and gathering up a basket of bandages, with basin, sponge, scissors, and pins, I hastened to the Dearest hospital, which I found in a warehouse about two hundred yards from my residence. I went to work with my coat off, and saw no more of the battle until the middle of the afternoon, though there was abundant evidence, in the many mangled and bleeding forms Constantly coming in, and the louder and increasing crash of arms, thai the conflict was a most terrible one, and was rapidly approach- ing the town. At length, the frequent explosion of shells in the im- mediate neighborhood, — one of them passing through a corner of the warehouse, — reminded me that 1 had a wife and family of chil- dren under tire, and therefore, reluctantly leaving my work, I hastened to look after them. Finding all safe, I ascended to the house-top for another view vi' the battle, and found that our army was falling ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. 1863. 389 back, ami M».ii the rush and roar of the retreat and battle in the Btreets banished everything else from our minds. That was a terri- ble night. Our army had been driven back; the town was I'nll of armed enemies. We saw and heard the progress of pillage all around us, and knew net how far it might proceed; hut we trusted in the Lord and were safe. The morning of July the second revealed a dreadful sight.— 'lead horses and dead men lay about the streets, and there were n< to bury them. Our first care was I'm- the multitude of wounded men new suffering for want of food. I sallied forth, taking care to lock the door after me. Anns and armor were strewn around and trod- den into the mud. I found the bakeries were in the hands of the rebels, and not a loaf or cracker remained : tin butchers' cattle had been driven away or confiscated, and no meat could be procured; the groceries were broken open, and their contents carried away or destroyed by t roups of rebels, who, like hungry wolves, roamed through the streets in search of plunder. The citizens had freely distributed to our own soldier- for several days previous, and had little left ill their houses, and, as we were entirely cut off from the world without the rebel lines, there was no possibility of procuring a supply ; but they did what they could, even denying their own families food in order to give something to the suffering men. In my own family, in anticipation of what had occurred, we had a good supply of coffee ami other articles now most needful; a twelve-gallon boiler was many times replenished, ami its contents carried in buckets to the different hospitals within reach, and, with baskets of bread and other edibles distributed among the men, served to relieve the pangs of hunger in many a brave soldier. In the rear of my residence is an open lot, on which a rebel com- missary cut up and distributed beef to a company or battalion of cavalry quartered near. My wife solicited and obtained from him the beef-bones left on the ground, anil bail them conveyed to her kitchen, and there washed, cut up, and speedily converted into ex- cellent beef-SOUp, until in this way probably one hundred gallons of this nourishing food had been distributed to the different hospitals, thus furnishing a most grateful and timely relief to the poor fellows, many of whom were not in condition to partake of solid food. Our surgeons, who remained with these men and permitted them- 390 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. selves i" be taken prisoners; were greatly embarrassed for want of medical supplies, as the rebels would not or could not supply any, and instancrs were mentioned in which they carried off those pro- vided for our men. The ladies of the town freely devoted their linen and muslin goods to supply bandages and lint; but the lack of medicines was not so easily remedied. In one of the hospitals were several cases requiring operations, in which anodyiics were necessary, and I undertook to find any that might be in town. Calling at a drug store which was closed, the owner came to the door, and said he had nothing of the kind in the house, and added in a whisper, "Call again; there is a rebel officer in the -tore searching for some." At another establishment I suc- ceeded in getting a pound of chloroform, which was brought from some mysterious hiding-place, and for which the owner declined accepting any compensation. Allow me here to remark, that the stories which have been pub- lished, charging the people of this town with a want oi' hospitality toward the soldiers, are basely false. 1 do not believe any com- munity has exhibited more generous devotion towards those thrown upon their hands. The circumstances in which they were placed made it impossible tin- them to afford full relief, hut to the extent of their ability, as a general rule, and beyond their ability, they hesi- tated not to contribute in aid of the suffering multitudes around them. In those days of suffering 1 gathi red bread from house to house, and the last loaf and half loaf was always cheerfully given. In every community there are heartless and sordid persons to be found, and doubtless there are such here; but they are exceptions. In the Army of the Potomac there were skulkers, who, when their comrade- were lighting, hung in the rear and plundered the farm- house-. Shall we therefore charge that noble army with cowardice and robbery? Not less unjust is it to accuse the citizens of Gettys- burg of faults which a few individuals may have committed. Dur- ing the battle of the first day, when the rebel shells were shrieking and bursting around the hospitals, even the women were found in the midst of the wounded men as they Were carried in from the field, doing all in their power to administer to their comfort : and from that time all through those terrible days, and afterwards down to the idose, in every hospital in town and around it, at all times, with ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. — L863. ">'-»l a devotion thai never flagged, nor counted any sacrifice too great, our noble women were found, like angels of mercy, binding up wounds and administering cordials and viands, with gentle words of sympathy, more grateful to the sufferers than even the food neces- sary for their subsistence. Ask the many hundreds of wounded men who filled the warehouses, halls, churches, and so many of the private dwellings of tlif town (luring this trying period, what they think of thf hospitality of the people of Gettysburg, and I am surf the citizens will be satisfied with their verdict. The rebels, though disposed to help themselves, wore generally civil and even respectful toward- the citizens. A circumstance, however, occurred in the forenoon of Friday, July 3, which for a while seemed likely to produce trouble. A soldier of a Virginia regiment, sitting in front of the Franklin House, on the public square, was shot through the breast by a minie ball tired by a sharp- shooter in a house near the Cemetery, a full half mile distant. As lie lay writhing in agony, a crowd of his comrades gathered around, and insisted that he had been shot from some of the houses near the square, and threatened summary vengeance. I had gone to render any possible aid to the dying man: but finding that nothing could be done for him, was bathing his face when the excitement arosi . 1 remonstrated with them, and after some time succeeded in convinc- ing them that they were mistaken, and the affair passed off with apparently sincere thanks for my -kindness to the dying man. The practice of sharp-shooting made it sometimes dangerous for pi on the streets. I had the day previous experienced a narrow escape from injury. As 1 was passing with my basket of bandages along Baltimore street, I was greeted with the peculiar sound of a minie close by my ear, and at the instant a drooping twig was cut by it from a tree just in front of me. The incident did not prevent my going the same round again: hut it made me careful to walk a- close as convenient to the wall- of the houses. 'fie rebel officers, until Friday, seemed to In- entirely confident id' success. One of them said to me in the forenoon of Thursday that they would not remain with us more than a few hours, as General Lee had his plan of battle nearly arranged, and they Would move forward, aid he seemed to think with assured success. He said they had one hundred thousand men on this field, and boasted of their 392 AXNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. complete appointments and invincibility. The same night, at a late hour, several officers on horseback stopped in front of my dwelling, where several gentlemen, anxious for information, entered into con- versation with them ; they were in good spirits, and said they had advanced both wings of their army and had taken one of our bat- teries in the centre ; they extolled General Lee as the great master of the military art, and spoke of his admirable strategy in making a grand feint towards Philadelphia, in order to concentrate his army here for an attack on Baltimore and Washington. About this time a squad of soldiers passing were halted, and asked to what they belonged. They replied, "To the Second Louisiana Brigade." They were then asked if they had taken that battery, and they replied that they had to " come out," and could not take it. The officers were silent. These men said the next day that they had but fifty men left in their brigade after that assault; they were the "Lou- isiana Tigers," of whom those officers boasted that they had never been driven back in a charge, and never would be. A great many of the rebel soldiers seemed to have no affection for the service, and would gladly leave it if possible. This we found by conversation with their wounded men in the hospitals, and many incidents might be related showing that this feeling is common in the army, and that the soldiers are kept in the ranks solely by force of stern and inexorable military law. A gentleman living in the South end of the town, whose house was occupied by rebel sharp- shooters, who drove him and his family into the cellar, relates that, creeping out after dark to feed his cow, he encountered one of these men alone in the stable, and entered into conversation with him. He declared that he had been compelled to enter the army, and wept when he spoke of his wife and children, from whom he had been forced away ; he was anxious to be assisted in getting within our lines ; but that was impossible, as the intervening space was covered by the fire of the pickets of both armies. The next morn- ing our skirmishers advanced and killed or captured this entire party, and this man's rifle was found two-thirds filled with cartridges, showing that he had refused to fire at the Union troops. On Friday night the rebel army quietly withdrew from the town to the crest of the Seminary ridge, and at daylight our skirmishers drove out or captured their stragglers and pickets. It was truly a AKMY OF THE POTOMAC. 1863. 393 joyful morning to the citizens, who felt as if some dreadful incubus had been removed; and though it was .1 day of alarm from the apprehension thai the rebel batteries might open <>n the town, still it was evident that they were retreating and that relief was at hand. As soon as the town was clear of the rebel lines, supplies began to come in. and those in hospitals here were made a> comfortable as circumstances permitted; but there was still in the fields, — the scene of the first day's fight, — a large number who for two days more could uot be reached, and whose sufferings must have been, beyond description, severe. K. G. McCreary. The narrative of the General Field Agent is now resumed : — Two or three weeks now elapsed before a new force was organized for effort in the army, which was then on its way from the Potomac river to Warrenton City. Nearly the entire force of the Commission was directed to Gettysburg, and to the supply of the permanent sta- tions, so that but little material remained for a new effort, and as the old line of supply was broken up, and the army so constantly in motion, new machinery was required, and a new plan to be matured. The last week in July, however, everything was in readiness, and with the new four-horse wagon, compactly stowed with tents and store- of hospital supplies and religious reading, a party of Delegates left Washington for Warrenton Junction, over the "pike." Going into camp, the first night, near Fairfax Court-house, in company with a long train of wagons, heavily loaded with valuable goods, a circum- stance occurred, that for a time promised to change the plans of the Commission quite materially. About midnight a party of guerrillas, with oaths, and revolvers in hand, dashed into camp, ami were soon escorting the whole train, at a rapid pace, on the direct road to Rich- mond. A "station" at "Libby" seemed the most probable result of the adventure. But a kind Providence, just as all hope of rescue was failing, delivered them out of the hands of their enemies, and tlie\ were, as the morning dawned, started once more on their way rejoicing. On the I'd of August, too weary to go further, a tent was pitched near headquarters of the Army, at Germantown, where it re- mained as a useful station of the Commission until the 14th of Sep- 50 394 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. tember. A footing secured, and with the prospect of a month of quiet rest for the army, several stations were at once established, — one at Warrenton City, one among the hospitals of the First Corps at Rappahannock, another at Bealeton, and after a few weeks a fifth in the Third Army Corps. The sick of the army were not retained in the field, but sent at once to the hospitals of Washington; so that for six weeks the attentions of the Delegates were mostly directed to the wants of the well. Many thousands of Testaments, hymn books, and religious papers were distributed throughout each corps, and meet- ings were organized and sustained at many places. At the chapel-tent at Bealeton chaplains' meetings were held weekly, twenty or thirty being sometimes present. It was the con- stunt aim of the Commission, as it had ever been, to do all in its power to assist, encourage, and strengthen the hands of these devoted men, who, through summer's heat and winter's cold, shared the perils and discomforts of the army life with those whom they desired to benefit, and who had in too many instances to stand up alone against an active opposition. At the tent in the Third Corps a most interesting scene was pre- sented, — the chapel being crowded at every service, soldiers coming from a distance to hear the truth proclaimed, and the Holy Spirit making this truth effectual to the conversion of many. The work at all of these stations, — each one useful and instrumental, we believe, in leading many souls to Christ, — was brought to an end in the mid- dle of September by another advance of the army, beyond Culpepper and to the banks of the Bapidan. Extensive rooms were secured in Culpepper for the office and warerooms of the Commission, and every preparation made for the battle that was each day expected. The cavalry was constantly in action, and every church in the village, besides the large Piedmont Hotel, was filled with their wounded and sick. Among these men, for many days, the Delegates found such opportunities for relieving distress as are seldom presented. Hundreds were supplied with food prepared at the Commission rooms, and taken from ward to ward by the Delegates themselves. Indeed in very many respects the work resembled that performed at the field hospitals in Falmouth five months before. Hundreds of letters were written for the feeble men, clothing and food were given to those found to be destitute, and reli- ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. 1863. 395 gious counsel and comfort freely bestowed. Daily prayers were beld in each ward of the hospitals, and an abundance of religious reading circulated. In addition to this, committees were appointed to visit different parts of the army with the supplies of papers as they were received, and many services were held in distant camps. As is the almost invariable custom of the Commission, a prayer-meeting was held each evening at the station, which soon became, as usual; a centre of great Interest. Very suddenly came the order to "advance," and in a very unex- pected direction. With scarcely time to send our superabundant stuns tn the cars, we were ordered off, and with a wagon loaded down heavily we started, upon what proved to be a must rapid and exciting retreat, into the line of wagons, — mules going on the run, flanked by columns of infantry, cavalry, and artillery ; men on foot and men on horseback; officers, soldiers, sutlers, and contrabands, all mixed up in this grand exodus, and all intent to reach the Eastern bank of the Rappahannock. Few scenes are more exciting than the retreat of the wagon-trains of an army, — the rapid run, the startling rumor, the sound of the approaching guns, the breaking wheel or overturn, the quivering bridges, poised high in air over some moun- tain stream, the deep "runs" where teams are "set" and left to the mercy of crushing wheels behind, give variety and interest tn every mile of the road. We started on Sabbath morning, and on Thursday reached Fairfax Court-house, with our wagon shorn of its beauty, bearing away visible sears from the exciting contest. Store.- wen safe, and men were all right alter a hearty meal and a day of sleep. " ( i ntreville Heights," the goal for which the armies were racing, was gained by the Army of the Potomac, and the rebels, satisfying themselves with the destruction of a railroad, slowly fell back to the Rappahannock. Some tedious days of uncertainty followed. The army, by slow stages, advanced, but with no expectation of meeting the enemy in force. In the last week of the month a station was established at Gainesville, but was soon moved thence to Manassas Junction, and the first week in November transferred to Warrenton Junction. A few days of suspense were usefully employed by the Delegates in making an extended distribution of religious reading and in holding evening meetings. The meetings were largely attended, and were blessed to the conversion of some souls. 396 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. On the 7th day of November, after a sharp fight, the army crossed the Rappahannock and took up the old line of defence along the Rapidau. A party started for the field hospitals with a wagon-load of stores, and, after working two days among the wounded, went forward to Brandy, and established a new station. For the next fortnight the headquarters of the Commission were at Brandy Sta- tion. A very large quantity of reading-matter was there distributed, and from the station the clerical Delegates went out to distant camps to preach. Evident it was, however, that the campaign was not yet ended, and arrangements were perfected, so that the Commission could go with the army whenever it should again advance. Two four-horse wagons were carefully loaded, principally with condensed food, stimu- lants and clothing, and a party was selected from the Delegates to go forward. It was arranged that the remaining Delegates should return to Alexandria by rail, and be ready to open communication with the army at the first point of supply, wherever it might be. Either Acquia Creek or Fredericksburg was, by many persons, sup- posed to be the destination of the army. Early on Thanksgiving morning the troops were moving. The tents were struck, the horses harnessed, final arrangements made, and at noon we joined the long line of headquarter wagons, and started out upon a journey whose destination was veiled in utter obscurity. The next day the Rapidan was safely passed, and "Robinson's Tav- ern," a wooden structure at the intersection of two roads in the " Wilderness," was reached the following morning. Here everything came to a fall stop. The Third Corps, crossing the river a few miles to the right of us, were attacked on the second day, and a fight of unusual severity resulted. The wounded, numbering five or six hundred, were taken from the field and placed in ambulances, parked in a field about one mile from the Tavern. The weather was very cold, the nights being intensely bitter, and the condition of the wounded was truly pitiable. Blankets were unusually scarce, and in the morning it was a sad sight to see the chilled and shivering sufferers. A large fireplace was soon built, and all were busy pre- paring hot milk punch and hot coffee, or in taking it from wagon to wagon until it was too late to do more. Early in the morning the same course was pursued. Milk punch was given freely, by the re- ARMY OF T1IK POTOMAC. — 1863. 397 quest and approval of the surgeons, and coffee, made nutritious with milk and sugar, was taken to all. In some eases the division wagon containing food and cooking utensils was delayed in coming to the hospital, so that many were almost entirely dependent upon the Christian Commission for food. ( >n Sunday and Monday most of tin 1 wounded were removed from ambulances and laid in hospital tents; bul the suffering from cold was still very great. All this time we were expecting the great battle would begin. Both armies were in position, and although the line of defence held by the enemy was vcrv strong it was expected an assault would be made, and we thought with sinking hearts of the unspeakable agony that must then ensue. Cut off entirely from any base of supply, food and forage already, in some places, beginning to fail, and the cold becoming more and more intense, we could not but hope most earnestly that the cup might this time pass away. I'm -day the order came to return. The wounded were placed again in ambulances, and we repacked our wagons ami took the place assigned to us at the head of the train, thus avoiding delay when coming to a halt at night. The Rapidan was recrossed in safety, and as the night came on the train was parked in a field near it- hanks. It was already late, and not a moment to he lost. A fire was kindled, water heated, buckets of milk punch prepared and taken to those most exhausted. Coffee and soda biscuit, care- fully husbanded for the occasion, were then distributed in all parts of tin' camp. Early in the morning the same work was repeated until the order to march was given. Another day's cruel march. Until near midnight cutting our way through almost impassable Swamps ami forests, at length, as we could get no further, we were ordered into park on a low, fiat marsh. An unpromising place it was. No wood, no water, and yet something mutt he prepared for those men, who, many of them starting off without a breakfast, have Undergone the pains of hunger all this long day, else they will surely perish. Wood is sought and found a quarter of a mile away, and brought on shoulders to the camp. A detail of soldiers is given, and they, after a long hunt in the darkness, return with pails of water, 'l'he lire is kindled, the water heated, ami brandy punch made, and taken from ambulance to ambulance, until at two o'clock in the morning it is declared that all have been reached. In the 398 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. morning the promise is given us. that the train sli:ill not start until we have fed them all. More extensive arrangements for a breakfast are made, the remaining' barrels of crackers are opened, ami. with lmi coffee, distributed throughout the train. Brandy Station, left behind us just one week before, as we then hoped, forever, was welcomed as a link once more connecting us with a civilized world. One week previously we had gone forth with heavy loads and minds doubtful of the way before us. Now we returned with wagons empty ami hearts full of gratitude that we had been privileged to minister to so many suffering soldiers. A tent was pitched near to the ambulances, and until the wounded were loaded upon the ears the Delegates remained with them, and then, accompanying them to Alexandria, helped to convey them to comfortable beds at the hospitals. Such expressions of gratitude are seldom heard as fell from a hundred lips that night. The badge of the Christian Commission was a sure passport to the heart of any one of those who passed through that terrible ordeal during those ".-even days in the Wilderness." "Winter quarters" are at length ordered, the active campaign is closed, and the quiet winter days are to follow its months of toil and blood. Rev. H. O. Howland, writing from Windmill Point Hospital, Feb. 19, 1803, tints describes the first meeting held at that hospital, which opened the way for the subsequent religious work in the army: — Last Sabbath the brethren of the Christian Commission kept holy-day at Windmill Point Hospital. Leave was obtained to occupy a vacant cook-house as a place of worship. Three soldiers were kindly detailed to aid us in procuring a stove, seats, etc., for the house. A carpenter made me an arm-chair, and a table was pro- cured. With barrels sawed in two, and scantling and hospital bed- steads, we made seats enough and the house was ready. The rain which beat upon our tent as the morning dawned was most unwel- come, and led us to fear a failure. But God had in reserve for us a signal and glorious success. At 10 a.m. Brother Pitcher, a Delegate from Washington, preached, and forty-five were present. I was requested to preach at 2 p. M., and sixty came. In the evening we AKMY OF THE POTOMAC. 1863. 399 packed the house, and there were over two hundred present. It was :i me ting for prayer and conference, and after three hours it was difficult to close the meeting. Fifty-one rose to express a desire for the prayers of God's people. The Holy Spirit was there. Thesol- diers seemed overjoyed. Many sail! it was the first opportunity they had i njoyed of attending a religious service since being in the army. Many took once more a stand for God and showed their colors in the presence of their comrades. Both for the soldiers and the Dele- gates it was a joyful day. We have had a meeting every evening since, — good meetings every one. The following account of the prayer-meetings held at Stoneman's Station, in April, 1863, is from the report of Rev. Geo. E. Street. This station was well situated. very accessible to the camps, and during the seven weeks uf its existence maintained, as did all the other stations tit' the Commission, a prayer-meeting every evening: — At the second meeting ii seemed to us that the Lord hail a blessed work in store for us. The tent was crowded. We immediately procured another. That. too. was soon full. The first characteristic of the meetings was the penitent confession of backsliders. We spent many hours conversing with such. This was our order of exercises: Singing until the men were all packed in their seats; then prayer, reading of the Scriptures, and a short sermon of twi nl\ minutes: then the meetings were thrown open to all for an hour. There was usually great freedom. Sonic thrilling experiences were narrated, melting exhortations from returning backsliders or new- converts. At fops or roll-call we would close. Hut closing was no easy matter. The pronouncing of the benediction did not dismiss a number, who still remained to converse, to get tracts and Tes- tament- for themselves or others, or to impure the way of salvation. At last we added another tent, making four in all, accommodating nearly four hundred. Beyond this limit we hardly thought it advisa- ble t>> go; we therefore encouraged our lay helpers t<> establish meetings in their own regiments, which was done in several with great effect Cue pious captain, who met with us till he found no 400 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION". room for himself, started meetings which were blessed in the convey sion nt' sixtv in his regiment. For seven weeks the meetings were held every evening and always with the richest results. The last Sunday evening I attended there will never be forgotten. The tents were parked to suffocation, and about a hundred stood outside, whom a Delegate, Rev. Edwin Johnson, took off by themselves for a separate meeting in the open air. Never shall I forget that ex- pectant crowd of men, who sat eagerly devouring every word I uttered. Saints were anxious for sinners, and sinners were anxious for themselves. When the meeting was thrown open for all, a cap- tain got up and said that his colonel (M'Allister, Eleventh N. J.) had sent li i 111 over to deliver a note to the Christian Commission. He had never seen anything like this meeting in the army; hoped God would lie with us. The envelope contained forty dollars, a contribu- tion from his regiment. Every hill-top in our vicinity, on that blessed evening, resounded with praise. It seemed like another Pentecost. Little meetings were extemporized all over the fields; so that, 1 am told, one could walk nowhere without stumbling on a group of soldiers praying. Rev. C. E. Fisher gives the following description of the work at the Third Corps station, in September: — On Monday I came to this station and began my work. Here I have been now a full week. There are a great many troops around us. We distributed during the past week more than 2,700 papers, nearly 5,000 pages of tracts, 200 Testaments, nearly 200 miscellane- ous books, held eight meetings in one chapel tent, and several others in different parts of the corps. There is a very encouraging state of religious interest among the men who attend our meetings. Many are refreshed, and some are converted. The work is growing and spreading. Our work is affecting the chaplains very favorably. They are becoming more active and earnest, and our tent is a rally- ing point for all Christian labor in this section. The work at this station continued about three weeks, and increased in power until closed by the sudden move- ment id' the corps. Months afterwards it was found that AKMY OF THE POTOMAC. — 1863. M)l the work of grace there begun was still continued, and thai eighteen prayer-meetings had been organized in differenl parts of the corps, and sustained by the soldiers, as one result of the influence of this station. The Assistant Field Agent, Mr. J. R. Miller, writes as follows from Bealeton, September 8, 1863: — General Meade and staff were at service last Sabbath morning. Two of his staff are known to be religious men, and take part in reli- gious services. 1 have noticed myself, — and Captain P., of General Meade'.- staff, remarked the same. — that there is a marked ehange in the observance of the Sabbath around headquarters during the pasl month. Every Sabbath grows stiller and quieter. I was at headquarters last Sabbath morning. It was the calmest and most like the Sabbath of any day I have spent in this army. I blessed God tor it. Flags were down, offices were closed, and none but the most important business was transacting. General Patrick called at our tent, com ersed tor a half hour, inquired concerning arrangements tor service during the day, selected some hooks, papers, etc., and then attended services himself, morning and afternoon, lie says. "Wehavejust got what we want. We have talked the matter of having services at headquarters) over many times, and have made efforts to have the end accomplished. Burnside tried it, and sent off tor ministers, hat the services never succeeded in awakening interest V we have the very thing we want, and we mean to keep it." Soldiers are becoming most deeply interested themselves at all our stations, and I believe that we have never had so much encourage- ment to work. At our chaplains' meeting last Saturday morning there were twenty-seven chaplains present. The following extracts, front a letter written by Rev. 8. E. Fit/, to Mr. Demond, gives ;i view of stations at the front in August : — August 9th I came to this place t Bealeton ). The next day we pitched our large chapel tent, which will accommodate over two hundred men, and before night had established a "station" of the 51 402 AXXALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMESIOlf. Christian Commission. Of this station I have had the charge up to this time. Bealeton is the name of a railroad station four miles from the Rappahannock river, and is now the principal supply depot of the army. This station was established not so much for working directly among the men of the army a> for furnishing a headquarters of tin Commission. Hither come all the soldiers' reading-matter and the hospital stores sent by the Commission to the army, and hence it is distributed to our other stations, viz., at Rappahannock Station, Third Corps Station, Army Headquarters, and Warrenton. The Delegates, as they come to the field, stop here, whence they are despatched to the other stations. We thus obviate the necessity of haying a large amount of supplies far away from the railroad, where they would be liable to loss in case of a sudden movement of the army. A few weeks ago we were ordered to be ready to move at ten minutes' notice, and since then we have kept things close. But the employment here has not been solely that of a forwarding agent. Situated as we are, at the present real terminus of the railroad, we have a good opportunity to influence nearly all parts of the army through large numbers of officers and men who frequent the place, on their way to and from Washington, or are here on business. & - ing our large tent, with its signs, " United States Christian Commis- sion," and having a moment or more to stop, they are continually coming in, and with a grasp of the hand tell how glad they are that the Commission is here. Seldom if ever do they go away empty- handed. They gladly take papers and 1 ks, from a single one up to two or three hundred, to distribute in their regiments. But our opportunity for good does not rest here. We have near us two small regiments and the wagon-train of the First Army Corps. Every evening we hold a prayer-meeting or have preaching. They are truly soldiers' meetings, attended and carried on by soldiers. They till our tent, for the love of the meetings, and we have proof that they get good. Our work thus tar seems to be chiefly to reinforce and draw out men who. as they say, " were church members at home." Some have not heard preaching before since joining the army. " These meetings are so like home.'' say they. Men come four miles on horseback to attend an evening prayer-meeting. We have near us an encampment of contrabands, who are employed about the depot. They come to us for primers, simple reading, etc.. in which ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. — 1863. 103 we give them lessons. Here as every where they have brought their religion with them. We have meetings with them, and they quite often have "praise-meetings" by themselves. Our distribution of hospi- tal stores is on the increase. There is a great demand for diarrhoea and dysentery medicines. Extract of ginger, sweet-gum bark, black- berry brandy, wines, and syrups, are very efficacious. We have to do, for the must part, with well men in active life, yet with those who may at any moment be called on to fight again, as they did at Gettysburg, and very many to die. How can we as Christian men fail to press home to the soldier his need of Jesus to keep hi- soul from death? The army is everywhere open to the Commission. Officers of every rank, privates, contrabands, all hail our coming and presence. In General Patrick, Provost-Marshal General, and in Genera] Pleasanton, especially, do we find support. General Patrick is almost fatherly in his interest for us. He says the Commission must go with the army. The " God bless yon " of many a private proves their appreciation of the Christian Commis- sion. The following extract, from ;i letter written by one of I he agents of the Commission, exhibits the work of n " picket station": — Two or three days before the army started for Mine Run, the Gene- ral Field Agent sent me off with six men and a chapel tent, without any definite instructions, except to put up the tent and work on the Sabbath. It rained pell-mell all day i Saturday). Had no informa- tion where anybody was. Went out to about where the first division, Second Corps, was afterwards encamped. Put up chapel tent, in a pouring shower, about nine o'clock in the evening. Lay down in the softest mud of Virginia. But the next day was perfectly beautiful. The tent was crowded three times with men hungry as wolves for the gospel. We had also a large number of open-air exercises, tin- ir four apiece, and thanked God that we had pushed out into the dark, since we all felt that we were led by His hand. I never rejoiced more over a day's work than that which we did in the muddiest of clothes, in thai unexplored -pot. feeling as seldom our weakness, but sustained by the unseen Hand. The next day the order came for the 404 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. corps to advance, and we were barely able to reach Brandy Station iu time to join the party who wont with the army to Mine Run. The following extract from a report by Rev. C. P. Lyford, of four months' work at Camp Convalescent, will fairly represent that of the entire year. The number of men thrown together here, convalescents; paroled prisoners, and stragglers from, and constantly going to, every regiment in the service, varied from five to twenty thousand. Tin- was ever a most inviting and promising field for missionary effort and one which was thoroughly improved : — On the 18th of March the permanent agent arrived in the camp, with his wife, and immediately entered upon his duties. Religious services were held in the chapel tent, which was found to he altoge- ther too small to accommodate the crowds that were disposed to attend. The building oi' the chapel itself was soon commenced, and in a few weeks completed. Though it would contain more than five hundred it was vet too small, and, after it had been packed to its utmost capacity, the men would still gather around the door and windows, as long a- they could get within hearing, to listen to the word of life. A- soon as the dry summer weather came on the preaching service was held in the open air. seats being arranged in the beautiful pine-grove around the chapel, and here thousands heard the gospel daily. The autumn came again, the chapel had been enlarged so as to accommodate from ten to twelve hundred men. We shall not be aide to state anything like the exact amount ot' labor performed during our tour months' stay in this delightful [dace. Three meetings were held every day, without exception, — prayer-meeting in the morning, inquiry or class-meeting in the after- noon, and preaching every evening, except Saturday, when a general experience-meeting was substituted. This does not include the ser- vices that were constantly held in the hospital dining the week and on the Sabbath : and in addition to it all was the distribution of stores and immense quantities ot' reading-matter, personal conversa- tion and prayer with men in the barracks and hospital, burial ot' the Al'.MY OF THE POTOMAC. — 1863. 105 dead, Bible-classes, temperance^meetings, etc. The fruits of this work must also remain in greal part unknown till "angels shout the harvest home," and yet many of these fruits appeared to cheer and encourage us. We ever felt, as did also the men, that at each meet- ing some were hearing the gospel that would never hear it again; that some were going direct from that meeting ti> the eternal world, and a great solemnity always pervaded our congregations. The first meeting that we held four men arose tor prayers: the next, ten ; and then the nunilier rapidly increased; ami while there, we do not know that a single day passed without many happy conversions to God. The number of earnest, deeply penitent seekers ranged all the way from live to one hundred and twenty-five every night Hon many were converted, how many carried their convictions with them and subsequently found Jesus, how many dying on the held of battle remembered that at Camp Convalescent they had been pointed to Christ, and there " looked ami lived." can never he known in this lite. The most interesting cases were constantly occurring, infidels were converted; drunkards were saved; backsliders were reclaimed; husbands, whose wives were praying for their salvation, sent home the glad tidings that at last they were ready to join them in ( Christian lite. The men. constantly going to their regiments and to different parts of the country, carried the tire with them, and other revival fires were kindled, and throughout the whole hind the results of this glorious work appear. Rev. B. F. Hamilton gives the following sketch of the work of the Commission at Camp Parole. An- napolis: — Camp Parole is the general rendezvous tor all the paroled soldiers of our army. There have been present during the summer about six thousand men. but the aggregate of all those who have stopped here tor a short period is much greater. They came directly from Richmond, weary, disheartened and destitute, having been robbed of everything valuable by their captors. The treatment they receive while prisoners of war greatly impairs the health of the men. ami consequently the hospital ha- been tilled with very sick patients. It ha- been our purpose to minister t<> the spiritual ami temporal wants 406 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. of these unfortunate men. When "new recruits" arrive in camp, our first care is to see that they are supplied with Testaments. These are generally received with the remark, "I left mine in my knap- sack;"' or, "the rebs got mine;" but sometimes a well-worn copy is produced, with the observation, " I always carry mine here in my side pocket." That man generally inquires for the prayer-meetings. They are thus supplied with various little books and tracts written for soldiers and a variety of our best religious papers. These are gratefully accepted, and there is abundant reason to believe that seed has been sown in this way which has borne fruit. An interesting- young man, who has recently obtained a hope in Christ, said to me, "That tract (the 'Passport') you gave me the other day, led me to decide the matter at once." Another points to something he read in the "Flag Paper" as the means, by the blessing of God, of his conversion, while many have resolved to abstain from swearing after reading that valuable little tract " Don't Swear." A very readable library, containing over nine hundred volumes, and a reading-room, with fifteen daily and weekly papers, have been secured for the use of the men. But the most interesting and profitable part of the work here has been in laboring for the conversion of these men. To this end three prayer-meetings and one Bible exercise were held each week, besides the regular preaching services ou the Sabbath. Great efforts were made to talk with the men privately, and to impress upon them the importance of making religion a personal matter. The meetings were generally well attended and deeply interesting. It soon became necessary to give up the old chapel-tent, and a large booth was made. In this rude temple hundreds assembled to worship God. It was evident that the Holy Spirit, with his converting power, was present with us. Professing Christians were revived, backsliders reclaimed, and sinners awakened. Never have I heard more earnest exhortations or importunate prayers than from these war-worn sol- diers. They were not satisfied with the regular daily prayer-meet- ings, but little impromptu meetings were held under a neighboring tree, or in the adjoining woods. A thoughtless young man attended one of these little meetings out of curiosity, but before it closed he requested that some one would pray for him, and the next day he was rejoicing in hope. At the close of a very solemn meeting I walked to a secluded spot, to converse with an inquiring soldier, but ARMY OF Till: POTOMAC. — 1864. 107 we found the place pre-occupied by a number of men who were wrestling with God in prayer for the conversion of some particular individuals. Perhaps there have been more marked instances of conversion in the hospital than in the camp. In making my usual rounds through the hospitals I found a uumber of rude men talking boisterously in a ward where a very sick man was lying. It seemed almost useless to introduce the subjeel of religion under these cir- cumstances, and after distributing some reading-matter to the men, and giving a word of encouragement to the patient, I was on the point of leaving the room, but a moment's reflection convinced me that 1 had not done my duty to that man. I returned to his bed- side, addressed a few general remarks to all in the room on the importance of making religion a personal matter, and then conversi d with the sick man; found thai he had no hope in Christ, lint was very anxious for his soul's salvation; tried to point him to the Saviour, and offered up a prayer in his behalf. To my surprise every man in tin' rot in kneeled during the prayer, with the exception of the sick man, and he, throwing his arms around my neck, exclaimed. "(on! bless yon! I will try to become a Christian." In a few days he died, rejoicing iu hope. [YEAR 1804.] No essential change in organization was needed in conducting the field work of the Commission during the early months of 1864, in which the army lay in winter quarters. Two experienced assistant field agents, ( '. W. Jenkins and Rev. E. F. Williams, personally superin- tended it. establishing fifteen stations, so located in the long line of encampments as to make every regimenl and battery easily accessible. From three to six Delegates were assigned to each of these, one of their number acting as the station agent. The work during the first four months of the year was almost entirely of a religious character. Meetings wore hold at each station, in a large chapel tent or room, every evening. Services were con- s 408 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. ducted in the camps on the Sabbath. Bible classes and Christian Associations were formed. Religious reading was distributed every week freely and thoroughly. An equally important work was accomplished by aiding chaplains in their arduous and responsible duties. Thi was done by providing each with a canvas "fly" or slue!, sufficiently large to cover a log chapel thirty feet long and twenty feet wide. "With this canvas covering was also given a sheet-iron stove and pipe, lumber for desk and table, hymn books for a choir, and books, letter-paper, ink, and pens, so as to make each building complete as a chapel and reading-room. In preparing for the active campaign, which promised to be one of unusual severity, important changes were made. The limits of the field assigned to the General Field Agent were extended, so as to include all forces operating against Richmond, while the permanent hos- pitals and camps in Maryland and Washington were placed under the control of the District Committee. Permanent agents were secured for each army corps. Strong four-horse wagons, with complete battle-field equipments, were provided, to enable the corps agents to keep with the troops in their marches, and to he promptly at hand when the field hospitals were opened. Early in the campaign the Individual Relief Depart- ment was organized, and placed in charge of experienced agents, whose duties were to answer all letters of inquiry received by the Commission, and attend to all business connected with the transmission of money or packages from soldiers at the front to their friends at home. This business rapidly increased as the year advanced. Thou- sands of letters were received from parents, wives, and ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. — 1864. tQ9 sisters, earnestly imploring aid in finding some dear friend reported to be "killed, wounded, or missing." To answer these letters often involved a long and diffi- eult search, firs! at the regiment, then at the field hos- pital, then in the post hospital or camp. By the sys- tem adopted then' was, however, usually but little delay in learning the facts desired, and in sending the answer which was to confirm the heart's worst tears or to glad- den with news of safety and health. Thousands of packages, containing the effects of soldiers shot in battle, or dying in hospitals, were brought by comrades or Delegates to he sent by special messenger to Washington, whence they could be safely delivered by express. These were often but little mementoes of the heroic dead, — a pocket-knife, a diary, or well-worn Testament, — but they were precious beyond estimate. Money to the amount of many hundred thousand dollars was received during the year, from soldiers who could not leave their regiments for the purpose, and transmitted to its desti- nation by the agents of this department. Besides this, lists of the wounded at field hospitals were prepared for publication, and graves marked so that they could be identified should the remains be sought for removal to another resting-place. The average number of Delegates in the field was much larger than that of the last year. From January until the breaking up of the winter stations, the last week of April, the average' was aboul forty-live. In the months of May and June the number varied from one hundred to three hundred, a large proportion of these being " minute men," who came for special work al Fredericksburg, White House, and CityPoint. During 52 410 ANNALS OF THE CHEISTIAN COMMISSION. the remainder of the year the number ranged from fifty to seventy-five. The intense heat of the summer, and the trying nature of the work, particularly at the corps stations, seriously affected the health of many Delegates and shortened their terms of service. The corps agents and business agents were, many of them, prostrated by sickness, leaving their fields to be filled by Delegates or to be abandoned. But there were always men ready to undertake the work, however irksome it might be. In- deed it was only by the efficient, self-sacrificing labors of many noble Delegates, who were ready to leave more congenial employment to assume the care of business posts, that the extensive relief operations of the Com- mission were sustained through these trying months. The amount of stores distributed also greatly exceeded that of previous years. But little was required during the winter months in the army hospitals, but when the campaign oj>ened in May, an almost unlimited demand was created. In anticipation of this a steam-tug, schooner, and barge were chartered to transport the stores and wagons of the "supply section" of the Commission. This section landed its stores at Belle Plain, Port Koyal, White House, and City Point, as each place was success- ively the base of supply for the army in its march toward Petersburg. Thirteen wagons and sixty horses were employed in transporting supplies and in equipping the corps sections on this campaign. Besides these means of transportation, owned by the Commission, the use of the government mail boats was freely granted, by the favor of Surgeon-General Barnes, so that as many as three hundred boxes were taken in a single trip. The list of stores distributed on this campaign represents a AKMY OF THE POTOMAC. — L864. 411 variety <>f over two hundred different articles. During the months of May, June, and July, there were, among other things, distributed by the Delegates in person to the soldiers who needed them, over 14,500 shirts, 10/400 pairs drawers, 11,500 pairs socks, 9,000 handkerchiefs, 23,000 pounds of meats, 51,000 pounds of corn starch, farina, and crackers, 28,290 cans of milk, 7,300 pounds of cocoa and chocolate, 1,800 pounds of tea, 61,700 cans of fruits and jellies, 17,300 bottles of stimulants, 1,000 boxes of oranges and lemons, 35,000 rolls of bandages, 3,000 pads, 1,252 pairs of crutches, 200 barrels of vege- tables, 300 tuns of ice, and 24,000 quires of note paper and envelopes. The following report of the General Field Agent gives somewhat in detail the plans and operations of the year:— At tin' opening of the year LSiU the Army of the Potomac was at rest in winter quarters. Its vast encampments covering valley, hill, ami plain for many miles, comfortable, symmetrical, clean, adorned with gigantic arches and groves of evergreen, swarming with healthy, vigorous men, at whose hands the winter hours dragged heavily, supplied a wondrously inviting field for the highest and noblest work of the Christian Commission. Brandy Station, on the Orange and Alexandria Railroad, was the army base; and, being but a mile from headquarters, with the First Corps but a few miles to the Westward, Kilpatrick's Cavalry and the Second Corps a few miles to the South, the Third and Sixth Corps close at hand upon the North, and the Fifth Corps easily accessible along the line of railway, was selected as the most titling location for the Commission supply station. It was resolved, in beginning the winter's work, to reach in a thorough and effective manner every regiment, battery, and squadron in the army, giving to each a regular supply of good religions lend- ing, comprising Bibles, Testaments, Soldiers' Hymn Hooks, religions 412 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. papers, of all denominations and from all sections of the country, tracts and books, expressly prepared for this circulation ; and also, by establishing stations, each provided with a comfortable chapel- tent t to give to every man an opportunity of hearing the preaching of the Word. This plan included, besides the accustomed features of the Commission work, one entirely new, and which, while calling for a great outlay of funds and labor, promised a. rich reward. This ' was nothing less than a plan to furnish the chaplains of each brigade in the army with the means of providing themselves with a commo- dious and comfortable place of worship. For two long winters, owing to the expense of chapel-tents, and the great difficulties attending trans- portation, the chaplains of the army had, with very 1'ew exceptions, been obliged to forego the great and almost indispensable advantage of having in their regiments a suitable place where they could collect the men under their charge for divine worship. It was a deprivation sorely felt by the.se faithful men, left as they were almost helpless, at the very time when they whose spiritual guides they were needed their guidance most. The way in which this most desirable end was to be attained was by mutual effort on the part of the soldiers and the Commission, the one building such part of the church as they were able, the other completing the edifice. The great difficulty had always been to secure material for the roof. The walls could be put up with logs and poles, the floor and seats com- fortably prepared, but by no possibility could the material for a roof, in the army, be secured. The Commission, therefore, to com- plete buildings thus tar advanced, proposed to provide a large sheet, or "fly" of canvas, bound firmly with rope, and having cords to fasten it to the walls. To make the gift more complete, music books for the choir and a large stove, with pipe, was also furnished. This proposition was joyfully received alike by chaplains, officers, and men; and brigades vied with each other to see which should have the most beautiful structure. The field agents iu charge of the prosecution of this plan, Rev. C. W. Jenkins and Rev. E. F. Williams, very soon had fifteen well- arranged stations, so located as to reach every part of the army with their influence. All of these had chapels, or some convenient place of worship. The stations situated in the towns of Warrenton and Culpepper used deserted churches for this purpose. Sixty coverings Alt. MY OF THE POTOMAC- ■ 1 864. 413 for chapel walls were also issued to chaplains in all parts of the army; and almost, as by magic, beautiful temples, most tastily planned and decorated, sprang up in the midst of the camps. From these stations, and from these chapels, an influence, more powerful than any human tongue can tell, went forth. At every station of the Commission, and in very many of the brigade chapels, meetings for the worship of God were held each night, besides meetings for the study of the Bible, which, in some stations, were held daily ; and at all the presence of the Divine Spirit was mani- fest in the conviction and conversion of men. The stations of the Commission were all, with the exception of those in the villages, constructed upon the same plan. The large chapel-tent, beautifully proportioned, of white canvas, with an arched awning over us broad door, and the white chapel-flag floating above *\ it, was the crowning feature of the station. Within, besides the closely-arranged seats, was a table, to be used in the day-time as a counter for books and papers, and as a writing-table for such sol- diers as might desire to use it. Sometimes a '•Imnk" was placed in one corner for the use of the Delegates, or any visitors who might there chance to spend the night. Besides this tent was 6tie wall-tent, and sometimes two, small, but well floored and well arranged, and u-rd for kitchen, dining-room, and lodging. Three Delegates were usually at each station, — one of them at least being a clergyman. 'I'lir cooking tor the station was sometimes done by a detailed soldier, but more frequently by the D.h gates themselves, each taking his turn. 414 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. The work performed at the station is of a varied nature. Early in the morning two of the Delegates, taking an armful of papers and books, go to some regiment or battery in their field, perhaps a mile distant, and distribute these to the soldiers they meet, seeking out the sick, if there be any, and giving an invitation for all to come to the evening meeting, or making an appointment for an open-air meeting. By personal conversation they exhort the soldiers with whom they come in contact to live holy lives, appealing to their better nature against the various forms of sin which assail them. At the tent the Bible-class is held, — in some cases forty or fifty sol- diers attending. In the course of the day many visitors come to the station, — chaplains, to get reading for their men or some delicacy for a sick man ; officers, for a copy of their home paper or a book from the library ; soldiers, for reading, or perhaps a towel or house- wife, or perhaps with anxious minds, desiring to talk with the man of God about the way of salvation. So the day passes, each hour filled with busy work, which, although not recorded on earthly tablets, leaves an impress for eternity. As the evening hour approaches the soldiers from all directions may be seen flocking to the chapel. Here a soldier who, alone, is turning his feet toward the tabernacle, there a group of eight or ten from a distant camp. The tent is soon filled, every seat and every foot of standing-room occupied. The service begins ; the old time- honored hymn is followed by the earnest prayer, the tearful exhorta- tion; the anxious ones rise amid their fellows, asking prayers that they too might receive eternal life. Yes, in that lowly tabernacle, in the midst of camps and of warlike men, is found a sweet foretaste of the coming heaven. It has been attempted by some to number those who gained a knowledge of Jesus at these stations, but it seems labor spent in vain to do this. God has set his seal upon them, aud "The Lord knoweth them that are His." Indeed, by no possible array of figures or statistics can the influence of these winter stations be exhibited. None can ever know how much of sin they have prevented ; how many despondent, doubting Christians have been encouraged and strengthened; how many seeds of Divine truth, sown in hearts seem- ingly unmoved, were destined some future day to bring forth perfect fruit. None can reckon the value of that comfort given to the faith- ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. 1864. 1 1 •"> ful soldier, who, in his hard pilgrimage, gained in these tents of prayer the Delectable Mountains, and caught a view of the Celes- tial City. None can tell how many weary, heart-sick boys have found in these rooms the sympathy and love their souls longed for, as though again within the charmed circle of home. In such labors as these the months passed quickly. The warm days of spring came again, the roads hardened, inspections of troops and grand reviews became frequent, the Lieutenant-General appeared, and raised his new flag at Culpepper. The old army corps were re-arranged, and we could not shut our eyes to the fact, — the fearful fact, — that all these pleasant scenes must end, to be replaced by scenes of blood and battle. One by one the stations were removed. It was a touching sight to witness the emotions displayed, as, for the last time, the soldiers gathered in their accustomed place, and lin- gered, unwilling to tear themselves away from the spot which had become so dear, so precious to their souls. It was decided to organize the entire force of the Christian Com- mission for the active campaign into sections, each being in charge of an experienced agent, and being, as far as possible, complete in itself. One of these was to be attached to each army corps in the Army of the Potomac; one to Burnside's corps, which, it was then expected, would act independently upon a naval expedition ; one with the Army of the James, which was collecting in the vicinity of Fortress Monroe and Yorktown ; and one to act as a supply section, charged with the duty of opening communication at the earliest possible moment with the sections in the army after an engagement. The Ninth Corps was eventually joined to the Army of the Potomac, so that when the campaign began our organization stood thus:- — Section with Second Corps, Rev. C. W. Jenkins in charge, two wagons, heavily loaded with stores, and five Delegates; section with Fifth Corps, Rev. E. F. Williams in charge, one wagon and six Delegates; section in Sixth Corps, Mr. Jaa. A. Worden in charge, one wagon and five Delegates; section with Ninth Corps, Mr. F. E. Shearer in charge, one wagon and seven Delegates; section with Army of the James, Tenth and Eighteenth Corps, Mr. J. R. Miller in charge, one wagon and ten Delegates; supply section, Mr. II. H. Clark in charge. This organization, with few modifications, was 416 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. maintained throughout the campaign, and proved to be well adapted to the exigencies of the work. Thus, our preparations made, our stations removed, we had, on the 1st of May, freed ourselves from the incumbrances of the winter, and were ready, in " light marching order," to start at a moment's notice upon the expected " advance." The order came at night on the 3d of May. Swiftly it sped along the lines from camp to camp, from corps to corps. Before that potent word, as in a twinkling, all was changed ; where lay the winter's camp, in all its peculiar beauty, but broken walls and blackened posts remained; while the close columns, marching silently forward through the shadows of the night, throwing back from polished gun and bayonet blade a few reflected gleams of moonlight, were all that told of the winter's rest, all that foretold the coming strife. The Rapidan was safely crossed, the bridges taken up behind us; and then, in the close tangle of the " Wilderness," began the conflict. Joining the flying hospitals of each corps during the days of the "Wilderness" battles, each section was vigorously at work. Pitching a little tent near the hospital grounds, some of the Delegates, preparing a fire- place and bringing wood and water, made large camp-kettles full of coffee, beef soup, and milk punch ; while others, taking wash- basins, soap, bandages, and sponge, with which they came provided, busily labored among the bloody, fainting men, who lay in rows beneath the canvas awnings, and under the trees, and along the roads. On all sides are cases of distress, — this one calling for water, that one for change of posture or dressing for his wound; here one in the chill of death, anxious to send a last message to the home friends, or to hear once more the words of prayer. What wonder, then, that some, forgetting everything but that unspeakable distress and want about them, labored until they sank fainting from fatigue? Working by day, marching by night, exposed to rain and cold and danger, cooking food for the tarnishing, binding the wounds of the suffering, cheering with Christian consolation the despondent and the dying, doing a thousand acts of kindness, as soon forgotten as performed, these Delegates and agents of the Commission staid at their posts through all those days of fighting and marching, which at length brought the Army of the Potomac and the Army of the James ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. — 1804. 417 together, on either side of the Appomattox, before the strong works of Petersburg. A great and very important work was done throughout this cam- paign by the supply section, and by Delegates, who labored only at the various posts which were used as temporary depot hospitals. On the Nh of May, immediately after the battle of the Wilderness, the wounded were placed in long trains of ambulances and army wagons, and taken to the city of Fredericksburg, on their way North. Two sections of the Commission, the sixtli and ninth, attended them on the march, and remained with them until relief came by way of Belle Plain. In the course of the day the army of wounded men, variously estimated at from ten to fifteen thousand, was poured in upon the rebel city. Every church and hall, court-house and theatre, with whole blocks and streets of stores and dwelling-houses, were taken for hospitals. With only a small corps of surgeons, almost entirely destitute of food and medical supplies, having but few men compel, ni to act as nurses and attendants, their condition was pitia- ble and wretched in the extreme. The agents and Delegates who were with these men, found everything which they had in their heavily-loaded wagons precious beyond estimate. Barrels of crackers, sugar, coffee, boxes of milk, brandy, rags, and bandages, soap, chloro- form, plaster, all so carefully selected, were needed to save the very lives of men. Literally, thousands of sufferers received from these stores, for two or three days, nearly all the sustenance they had. A fine large mansion, furnished throughout, but deserted by its owners and occupied only by slaves, was taken to be used as headquarters of the Christian Commission, in anticipation of the corps of minute men expected. They were soon on the ground, — a noble army of surgeons, clergymen, lawyers, and merchants, coming equipped for work, to the number of over two hundred men. The agent in charge of the supply section had succeeded in his duties, and was the first to land -lore- and men at Belle Plain, the new base, and was able to minister to a thousand wounded men, who had reached the shore before any other relief organization was on the ground. lie brought, besides tents and cooking utensils, an additional number of wagons and horses, and a large stock of supplies, so that very soon the Commission had most efficient stations both at Fredericksburg and m Belle Plain. 53 418 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. The corps of Delegates at Fredericksburg were organized in such a way as to insure the careful visitation of every hospital in the city and suburbs. A store-room was opened, and the supplies received from Belle Plain were carefully issued, the Delegates in nearly every case superintending their distribution to the needy men. Committees were appointed to watch for the trains of ambulances from the front, ready to give nourishment to the wounded, or assist in their removal to their rude hospital, to see that the hospitals were supplied with ice and straw, and to search the streets and houses for any men who might have been overlooked in the great throng. The Delegates, under the direction of the corps captains, spent the day in assisting the surgeons and nurses, in writing letters for the men, and holding prayers, — in some cases night and morning, in other hospitals but once a day, — in every ward. Many of the Delegates, being surgeons of known ability, were put in charge of hospitals by the Medical Director, and others were made ward-masters, having oversight of the army nurses. In many ways, for two long weeks, the Delegates worked night and day among the wounded. Loads of straw were " foraged," and brought to the city for bedding; loads of ice, found in the ice-houses of the vicinity, were distributed: many tons of clothing, fruit, and hospital stores, were brought from Belle Plain, and hundreds of meetings and funerals attended. For several days the wounded were sent, as fast as transportation could be obtained, over the mountain roads to Belle Plain ; but the roads became so bad that the lives of men were endangered. The government finally rebuilt the railroad from Acquia Creek to Fal- mouth, and the- men were then transported very comfortably and safely to the boats. When the order to evacuate the city came, a tent of the Commission was pitched at Falmouth, near the railroad, where the wounded were being loaded upon cars, and kettles of farina, coffee, and lemonade prepared and given to the poor sufferers. Many who were near to death were brought there, and left upon the ground in the cold rain throughout the night. Several died there, and doubtless many more would have died had it not been for the con- stant care bestowed upon them by the Delegates of the Commission, and the food and stimulants given. A constant stream of men, halt, lame, and blind, in ambulances, on crutches, on stretchers, poured for days out from the streets of Fredericksburg, across the long pon- AKMY OF THE POTOMAC. (864. -II!) toon, up to the railroad station. Boon all had gone, and on the 28th of May the "dolorous city" was given up to its inhabitants. Leaving Belle Plain when that post was broken up, ami remain- ing bu1 a few hours at Port Royal, the supply section was next estab- lished at White House, where, for two weeks, was a scene of remark- able activity. Before any wounded had reached this point a fine station had been established by Mr. Miller, who now joined the Army of the Potomac with his section, and after the arrival of the supply section fifty Delegates were ready for any work. Having obtained notice of the first long train of wounded coming from the battles on the Pamunky, and learning that for thirty hours they had, many of t^m, been without food, preparations were made to supply them from the wagons. It was found that, the bridge being out of repair it would be necessary for them to lie still another night in the ambu- lances, about two miles from the station, and across the river. The steam-tug chartered by the Commission to tow a schooner, loaded with stores, from Washington, was loaded with tents, kettles] crackers, milk, etc., and a station set up on the other side of the over. Towards morning the long train of winded arrived a pite- ous sight, weary and faint from pain and loss of blood; thirsty hungry, and cold, the poor men could not restrain their groans and cries for help. Very soon the hot coffee and milk biscuit were passed from wagon to wagon, while with basin, sponge, bandages, and gentle touch, the Delegates, crawling into the narrow ambulances, bathed th « face, combed out the hair, removed the hard, offensive bandage Prom the wound, and put clean, cooling linen in its place. A thou- sand men were doubtless relieved in these ways during the few hours this station remained. But, in the mean time, the battles of Cold Harbor had been fought, and many wounded were coming in at all hours of the day and night! An in,, no,,., hospital of tents was established at White House, and 'li- corps of Delegates were divided into companies and assigned to the different corps hospitals. Tents were erected by the Commission, at which soldiers could have their wounds dressed and be supplied with nourishing food. Thousands were in this wav supplied with coffee and soup, papers and books, letter paper and pencils. Hundreds of packages, which otherwise would have been lost, con- taining the effects of soldiers who had been killed, were taken to 420 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. forward to their friend.-'. Delegates were also assigned by the Medi- cal Director to go upon the hospital transports, — in some eases having the entire charge of nursing and feeding the wounded, who filled the boats throughout the voyage. The sections at the front were also kept well supplied from this station, a train of four-horse wagons passing back and forth between the base and the Hying hospitals. Another " flank movement," — and again the station was broken up, and moved by water down the river, and up the James, landing at City Point on the 15th of June. Here began a work, which, in one respect, that of place, was permanent. Although many battles were fought, and many changes occurred, still the location ami posi- tion of several stations were the same at the close of the year as those established in the month of June. City Point was through all this time the base of supply ; the sections, with few changes, re- mained with their corps, and the work of the Commission went steadily forward. Stations were already established at Bermuda Hundred and Point of Rocks, the latter being an important station until the close of the year. From the 1st of July until the 1st of December, from eight to ten stations were in full and successful operation. One in each army corps, supplied with a wagon and horses for independent transporta- tion, moved constantly with the hospitals, and was the Commission's headquarters for that corps, — other stations, depending upon this for support, being established from time to time as they were needed. Th".-v -latinos were generally manned by six or eight Delegates, and had a large chapel "fly" neatly pitched, — beneath which, in the day-time, stores were distributed, and in the evening prayer-meetings were held; — and, in addition, two or three smaller tents for the accommodation of Delegates. During the months of July and August, the heat being excessive, and the exposure of our troops being great, both from the frequent battle- and the damp trenches, a large quantity of supplies, beyond what Government furnished, was needed, and each station was sup- plied liberally with hospital stores, vegetables, and ice, for distribu- tion. The soldiers, worn out by the excessive fatigue of the cam- paign, fell, many of them, a prey to disease, and the hospitals were always full. The regular supply of religious reading was again attempted, and, although often interrupted by the frequent move- \i;mv OF THE POTOMAC. — 1864. 421 ment of troops, became a source of great good. In nearly every station a prayer-meeting was held each evening, and most precious seasons they were to many a bouI. Revivals of great power followed the labors at nearly every station. Battle-field stores were kept at all times on band : and at an hour's notice the station could be removed, packed upon the wagon, and ready for a march. The Delegate in these stations had a twofold work, first, the systematic dailj \ isitation of the field hospitals : si cond, distribution of reading- matter, ami preaching in the open air to the soldiers in the trenches and along the lines. In visiting the field hospitals from day to day, every person needing special assistance was sought ent, and if he needed food, or clothing, or book, or letter written, or words of cheer and Christian counsel, thej were freely given. Whenever a battle occurred, the Delegates being near were promptly on the ground, ready to give such help as they could render. These labors were not performed, however, without many drawbacks and difficulties. Sicknes- deprived n> from time to time of our most experienced agents and Delegates, while the sultry weather made it almost im- possible for Delegates coming from the North to undergo the physical exertion involved in their arduous work. But a kind Providence led us on, step by step; when the way before us was the darkest then the Master seemed to interpose in our behalf, and not a week passed without giving fresh cause tin- thanksgiving and new exertions. S i after the occupation of City Point by our forces a depot hospital was established on a broad plain above the Appomattox, about one mile from the .lames river. Here a station of the Com- mission Was at once erected. This hospital partook somewhat of the nature of both a field and general hospital. It was really a collec- tion of live distinct hospitals, in which from four to ten thousand men were collected. Here was always a tield for Christian Com- mission labor, more extensive than we could ever cover. Hundreds dying, thousands suffering, needing aid ami help of every kind, — surely the Delegate was never at a loss for want of work to do. From fifteen to thirty Delegates were constantly employed at this great station during the remainder of the year. The hospitals themselves were simply canvas tents, pitched upon wide Streets, on what had been a cultivated field. In the Miltrv 422 AXXALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. days of summer the dust became almost suffocating, and greatly increased the sufferings of the patients. To remedy this a steam fire engine was generously loaned the Commission by the city of Baltimore, which, stationed near the river bank, sprinkled the entire camp, laying the dust and purifying the whole atmosphere. It was m real blessing to thousands, giving to every one fresh courage. Early in July a large chapel tent, sixty feet in length, was put up at this station, and when the weather became cold a large frame chapel was built to take its place. In these meetings were held, every afternoon and every evening, for many months, and during all this time were fully attended. Indeed, a constant revival was in progress here, and it is believed over five hundred souls were born again. It was a strange and interesting sight, — these meetings thronged with soldiers, heads bandaged, anus in slings, pale faces, crutches and canes in all parts of the house, — an earnest, tearful band of worshippers. Every week this band was broken, — some called back to the front, some to go to the more Northern hospitals, — but there were always more to take their place, and the room re- mained full. A fine, large reading-room, with writing-tables and a circulating library, was here in operation nearly six months. As the hot days of summer and the cool, delightful days of autumn wore away, all looked forward with high hopes to the winter season, when, for a time, the soldiers would be in quiet camps, and when once more chapels might be raised, and every regiment blessed with the gospel brought to their very doors. The order for winter quarters, long delayed, came at length. Ten thousand axes in a few days laid low whole forests of pine, and, as by magic, the little huts and cabins rose from the very ground, until city after city was complete, stretching from the Lynchburg Kail- road below Petersburg, around that besieged city, across the Appo- mattox and the James, to within five miles of Richmond, — a line, bristling with forts, of more than fifty miles in extent The following account of one day's labor at a winter station is given by Rev. A. Fuller, of Maine: — Early in March, 18(5-1, I found myself at the office of the Christian Commission, in Culpepper, duly commissioned as a Delegate, and ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. — L864. 423 awaiting an assignment to duty from the agent in charge. 1 confess ti> a feeling almost of dismay when I thought of going out to actual work among such men as the soldiers at first appeared to be. A single incident will show how I got rid of my fears and learned to love tin- work. I had been assigned to a station just established in tin' battery brigade of the First ( 'orps, which comprised a body of nearly a thousand men, who bad scarcely heard a sermon or a prayer since entering the army, for, as is well known, the batteries have no chaplains. The work looked very bard and unpromising to me. But ii must be tried, and with much prayer and many doubts and fears I went to my field. We pitched our chapel lent and bad notice of religious service in the chapel read at "retreat" in all the batteries, and a good number of well-disposed or curious men gave us an encouraging audience for our first meeting, lint now, to make any real progress, there must lie personal intercourse with the men in their tents. They must be talked with seriously and earnestly about their souls, and personally invited to come to the meetings. This seemed a hard tiling for me to do, but I resolved to try to do it ; so the next morning, after much prayer for strength and special guidance, I took a bundle of tracts and papers in my haversack and started for one of the batteries. Unfortunately, as it then seemed to me, it was the hour of " water-call," and most of the men were out with tin' horses. Accordingly I got along with my visits very fast, finding but few to talk with, and even these I was feeling like hurry- ing by, with merely a few words of common talk and a casual invita- tion to our meeting. In this very unsatisfactory way I had been nearly the whole round of neat log huts, and was thinking of escap- ing back io my tent, with the excuse that Providence had not favored me this time, when, as I approached the last hut, I beard shouts of laughter, mingled with the loudest and most violent cursing. Here were evidently men enough, but what could I do there? My first impulse was to pass on and leave them entirely, but then were not these just the men I came out to find? What excuse had I for leaving them ? Willi this thought I knocked at the door. A loud, rude voice, with an oath, bade me"Comein." I entered at once, and found about a dozen men lounging on bunks and stools, or squatted on the floor, and just then engaged in a sharp dispute about some point in a lj:i hh ■ of cards they were playing. My entrance 424 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. evidently confused them not a little, and i.~t such temptations." "Yes, chaplain; but it is hard starting here." "True, my dear friend, but isn't it harder not to start? It is a hard place to live like a Christian, but isn't it a harder place to live without God and without prayer?" "Yes, you are right, there, chaplain ; and I sometimes think I will do better. The folks at home are praying for me." " Well, I am glad to hear you say that. If fathers and mothers and wives pray for us, we ought to pray for ourselves. Will you come to our meeting to-night?" "Yes, yes," said all. "We are glad you are come among us, chaplain; wc have need to be better men ; but I haven't heard a sermon since I came into the army, — over two years." As I bade them good- morning, many a cordial voice said, "Come and see us often, chap- lain ; we love to hear you talk, and if we don't do as well as we ought, we do think of these things." AKMY OF THE POTOMAC. — 1864. 425 1 u. iii away from that hut with ;t great burden off my heart, for 1 found the soldiers had hearts easily reached by straight-for- ward, i lain dealing. I found, too, where the " Revival in the Array of tli, Potomac" was; for from thai very day it began in our own brigade, and through the whole time of my service th< re was scarcely a 'day thai some new inquirer did not appear. I could understand, then, those glowing accounts I had read of what the Lord was doing among the soldiers. The Spirit of the Lord was there; the revival was there; only it wanted earnest, patient men in go down among the tents :inil find it, just where it was, in the hearts of common soldiers. There was a glorious revival, and many a new witness for Christ was found; net a tew of whom, 1 afterwards heard, sealed their testimony with their lives. Rev. Thomas A. Leete, in charge of Mountain Run Station, in the Artillery Brigade, Second Corps, writes thus of tlif work done there in the winter months: — In the light artillery there are no chaplains. No religious services nt' a public nature are held. Should it lie so? Many a soldier has told me that he has not heard a sermon tor years, — in some instances for three years. The consequences are obvious; the ungodly become bold in wickedness, and professing ( Christians, to a lamentable extent, backslide. When services commenced in our brigade, live weeks since, there were not ten soldiers, in the six batteries composing the brigade, that stood ready to engage heartily in Christian duties. Not that among the live hundred men there were not more than ten that were aiming to lead a Christian life: hut so low was the state of religion that no one felt like encouraging another. No prayer- meetings were held, and if a hymn of praise was sung there were many who would jeer and ridicule. But since the Christian Com- mission tent has been erected in front of the batteries, the change has been wonderful. We firsl sowed most plentifully the good seed of truth among the batteries and in the tents, and withal spent much time in personal conversation with the cannonei rs. This, in connec- tion with a public service in our chapel tent each night, began to act a- leaven. Serious thought was awakened, and very soon serious inquiry. The importance of prayer was urged upon professing 420 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Christians, and very soon the promise was verified, " Ask and ye shall receive." For the first two or three weeks the work was inter- rupted somewhat by a movement of the batteries, at the battle of Morton's Ford, and some other changes ; but for the last ten days, every night, when an appointment is made for prayer or preaching, our tent is full to overflowing of earnest worshippers. Officers and privates have said to me, again and again, " Yon are doing afar greater work here than you can have any idea of; we can judge better than yon." Some twenty-five or thirty hopeful conversions have occurred already. Backsliders in still larger numbers have been reclaimed ; and as yet the work is seemingly but just begun. The interest increases with each passing day; and if, for two weeks to come, the work advances as during the past two weeks, glorious results will be witnessed. Already we cannot but exclaim. What hath God wrought! Several cases of interest have come under my observation, outside the artillery, in the infantry. I have spent much time in personal conversation with the soldiers, — for this I find to be the best method of getting hold of men, — and everywhere I find them accessible. And not only so; they desire to converse, many of them, upon the subject of personal piety, and all that is required is that one should take them by the hand and lead them to Christ. Several instances of this kind I have met, when out for a few hours in some regiment or hospital. I think I have abundant evidence for believing that a few words, spoken in the manner above described, have resulted in an entire change in the life and character. "A word fitly spoken, how good it is!" My last meeting at the sta- tion was a scene I shall never forget. The warm expressions of interest in our work, and in ourselves personally, coming from the lips of converts and reclaimed ones, showed us most conclusively that our work had not been in vain. One and another exclaimed, "Where should I have been, what would have become of my poor soul, had not these brethren come and brought us the gospel?" Rev. W. L. Tisdale wrote, on March 5, as follows, from Nelson Station, Warrenton Junction, Va. : — This is a new station. I preached the first sermon here. The chapel was crowded, and also the space for twenty or thirty feet AliMY OF THE POTOMAC. — 1864. -127 around the door. From thai day to this, very stormy weather ex- cepted, the chapel has been crowded at every service. The firsl time opportunity was given eight or ten men expressed desire for the prayers of Christians in their behalf, and every time since a- many have embraced each opportunity. Sometimes twenty, and one even- ing thirty-five, asked prayers. I can hardly tell the number of con- versions in the brigade since we came; but from all I can learn there have been, during the four weeks since the station was started, several hundred led to serious reflection, and about one hundred converted and reclaimed. In our firsl or second meeting at this new station, a drummer-boy of the One Hundred and Forty-sixth New York Volunteers was deeply impressed, began to cry to God for mercy and salvation, and soon came happily into the light. At once he began praying specially for a young friend. lie, too, was converted to God. Then the two united their prayers for a third, who was soon won to Jesus. They all joined in prayer for a fourth one of their comrades, successfully ; and the four for a fifth; and so they kept on, until now the drummer-boy tells me that ten of their com- pany are already happy in the love of Christ and hope of heaven newly found. The following sketch, by Mr. Williams, of two weeks' experience in the Fifth Corps section,- in May, 18G4, needs little more than a change of names and dates to make it a record of any corps section during tin active campaign: — The last Sabbath in April the Delegates at Culpepper preached twenty-three times to the different regiments in and about the town, and everywhere the men listened as though they were anticipating the baptism of blood which awaited them during the early days of May, and as though anxious to prepare for the death march which so many of them were to make to the battle-fields South of the Kapi- dan. A tew days more and the tents of the Commission were struck. Cooking utensils, station furniture, and all heavy articles were sent back to Washington, and the wagons carefully packed with battle- field stores. The Delegates were divided into companies and placed under the care of experienced agents, to each of whom a corps was assigned as a field of labor, in the active campaign for which the 428 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. army was now prepared. Early on the morning of the 4th of May we join the hospital train of the Fifth Corps, and cross the Rapi- dan at Germania Ford, passing through the formidable fortifications just abandoned by the rebels, and at night encamp in an open field. At noon, May 5th, the battle begins in earnest. The ammunition wagons draw nearer the front. Commissary and quartermaster wagons arc parked in the rear. The ambulances solemnly wheel into pro- cession, ready to drive to the battle-ground and receive the wounded, The first load is not long delayed. A single "fly" is stretched upon a side hill, hardly out of range of the enemy's cannon, and a surgeon or two detailed to dress the wounds of those who lie upon the grass mar by. The Medical Director of the corps selects a place suitable for a field-hospital, in a grove on each side of the Chancellorsville road, and distant about two miles from the Wilderness Tavern. Here the tents go up as by magic; but before those of a single division are pitched the head of an ambulance train approaches, laden with we know not how many hundreds of men, groaning with pain, and tag- ging lor immediate attention and care. The amputating table is at once in use. Surgeons and chaplains vie with each other to make the men more comfortable. Hospital attendants carefully lift the ■wounded from the ambulances, and carry them gently to the wards, and lay them on the ground, or upon boughs of pines hastily broken from the trees. The Delegates of the Commission are at work, too. Some of them help the men out of the ambulances, some build fires and prepare coffee and tea and take to those who call for drink, while others receive the messages of the dying. Amid such scenes there can be no idlers. Through the afternoon and through the night the work continues. While some sleep others keep the fires burning, and fill the pails of the nurses as one after another they come for coffee for their wards, and so the night passes, — the rattle of musketry never ceasing. But the morning sun only ushers in another day of blood. The fighting is desperate, and all day long the wounded pour in toward the grove. Still another day of battle, and now thousands are strewn upon the ground about us ; the ampu- tating tables are surrounded with heaps of lifeless limbs, and the air is full of moans, and cries, and death. In the afternoon of Saturday, May 7th, there are rumors of a movement to the left. Before midnight the tents arc struck, and the long trains of wagons and ambulances, AKMY OF THE POTOMAC. — 1864. £29 loaded with the wounded, arc moving oul upon the road toward Fredericksburg. Many of the wounded, too weak to follow on ('not or to endure the jolting ride in the heavy wagons, are left with a lew attendants to the tender mercies of the rebels, who will soon have undisturbed possession of the Wilderness. As we drive out into the road and await in the darkness the order to march, there is a moment hi gather up in thought the experience of the three terrible days now- closed. The silence is oppressive. The fighting has ceased. Only now and then there is heard the sharp crack of a picket's gun or the hideous bray of an impatient mule. We think of the unburied dead on the fields of strife, of the wounded we leave behind, of the scenes we have witnessed of heroic fortitude and patriotism, of triumphant deaths, of the thousands who in Northern homes must soon be made- sad when the record of these days of blood is borne to them. Then, too, come back to us the words of gratitude, and thanks, anil bh ssing which have been so often heard from the lips of the noble men as we sought to comfort and help them, and they strengthen our hearts anew for the work that is still before us. But we do not think long. The train is ordered to move on. Streams are forded in the dark- ness; the road is kept with difficulty. Sabbath morning finds us on the Chancellorsville battle-field. We halt for food and water. The Sixth, Ninth, Fifth, and Second Corps, with bayonets gleaming in the sun, but with dusty uniforms and weary steps, march past us. A few hours later and skirmishing is heard. We follow on. No inter- ruption till noon. Another halt for food and water. We start again. ( ruerrillas fire upon the train. The cavalry scout tin woods. Two or three citizens are captured. The train is driven rapidly on over dry and excellent roads, or through sandy fields, towards Spott- sylvania Court-house. At sun-down we halt again, in a corn-field, for supper, and as it is hoped for a night's bivouac. The rebels are disputing the advance of our troops in the forest just before us, Inn the lighting is not serious; so we unhitch. Horses are watered in a stream, across which the enemy has been driven hardly hall' an hour before. Men are preparing their suppers, when the order comes for an advance. Again the heavy wagons move forward; nun and horses long for rest, but it is denied them. We march through a gloomy forest of pine. The darkness of the night is made and more oppressive by the faintly burning tires which have been 430 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. kindled in the dry underbrush during the fight, which now bring oul into boldj striking, but solemn relief, the tall trunks of the giant pines which skirt our path, and which give a weird and fanciful character to the scene. We pass through a deep and dangerous stream. Broken wagons on either bank warn us of our impending fate. But the train presses on. The road becomes rough and stony. Weary mules are coaxed forward. Weary men drop by the road side to catch an hour's sleep, it is midnight of the Sabbath day. What a Sabbath it has been! But we have reached the ex- tent of our journey. All the trains of the army are parked in a large open field, immediately before us. Now we shall have rest. Not so; for the wagons of the Christian Commission are ordered off the ground. We drive off to the right, to seek a hospital of a divi- sion of the Fifth Corps, said to be hardly a mile distant, liut the mile soon becomes two, and at three o'clock Monday 1 ning we drive out by the side of the road, unhitch our horses, i'rcd them, and lie down at the foot of a pine tree for an hour's sleep. With the first light of the morning we are awakened by men moving around us, ami find that we are among the wounded and dead, who are lying as they fell upon the field in which we are encamped. A demand is ;ii once made upon us for stores. All hands are at work, washing and dressing wounds, for not more than two surgeons are present to care for two hundred men. Preparations are just complete for pitch- ing the hospital tents, when the word comes for us to fall back. \\:i ;ons are rapidly repacked, tents strapped to axletrees, — any way to carry them. The ambulances lead, filled with the poor men who had lain on the swampy ground so many hours, praying and patiently waiting for the needed aid. \Yc hail proceeded hardly an eighth of a mile before we met an- other train of ambulances, eagerly pressing by us, in the hope of reaching the other side of the soon-to-bc-made battle-field. The artillery rush past us, and wheel into position on the brow of a hill just to our right. A little distance away, in full view, stand the rebel hosts, impatiently awaiting the word to open the attack. Our train is blocked. The road is full. The ambulances, with their precious burdens, still pass by us on the left. In one of them, all covered with blood, we look upon Sedgwick's noble body, now cold in death. The wagons in front of us begin to move. The moments AII.MV <>F THE POTOMAC. — 1864. lol spenl in waiting have lengthened in imagination into hours; Imt escape is al hand. No. The driver immediately in fronl of us runs against a tree, and our wheels are fast. A Delegate springs for an axe, winks away at the tree till it falls; another start ; second col- lision ; the pole -naps ; the wagon overturns ; the horse* are cut loose, and the driver rides rapidly for his lili'. In the mean time our wagon has regained the road, and is now fast overtaking the train which hadlefi us to our fate. In a few moments more the sound of firing reminds us of our narrow escape, and tells us that the battles of Spott- sylvania ( lourt-house have begun. The hospital of the Fifth Corps is located at Laurel Hill; that of the Six ili Corps is half a mile South, towards the Court House; that of the Second Corps is nearer, but West of us. Here again are made preparations for the reception of hundreds of wounded men, for the heavy si und of artillery which we hear, and the rattle of musketry, are sure indications of a fearful battle. The hospital is not long without inmates. The long wards speedily fill up, and before the sun of Monday, Mm 9, sets, we have a. hospital crowded with men Buffering with the most terrible of wounds. The work of the Com- mission h like that at the hospital in the Wilderness. Fires are k< pt burning ; hot coffee, tea, farina, corn-starch, milk punch, are constantly in requisition. Two or three men are in the wards all the day and night, praying with the dying, receiving their messages of affection, writing letters for those who cannot write for themselves, helping the surgeons, doing whatever they are able to do, bringing water from the spring, washing wounds, seeking in every way possi hie to sympathize with the siilferers before them. The Mine here remains unchanged for a week. The following extracts, from Rev. S. J. M. Eaton's report, give a view of the work at Belle Plain and Fredericksburg in May: — Our destination was Belle Plain, a point on the Potomac, sixty miles below Washington, where stores were to be landed and sent to the front, and whence the wounded were to lie sent on transports to Washington. We reached Belle Plain at 8 o'clock mi the morning of the loth of May, tint as yet no wounded nun had arrived. We 432 \XW\LS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. lay there, listening to the dull roar of the cannon that was borne to our ears from the distant battle-field, until the middle of the after- noon. At five o'clock the wounded began to come in from Freder- icksburg, and we went ashore and erected our tent.' Belle Plain is a miserable, barren point of land, in spite of its name, without a cabin or enclosure of any kind. The Christian Commission lent was the first, erected on the point. The Delegates speedily kindled a fire, opened the boxes of stores, and commenced the manufacture of coffee, — dealing crackers and "hard-tack" to the wounded men, who were almost famished with hunger. The mighty tide of sufferers had set in, and was increasing every hour. Some were on foot, with extemporized crutches and canes, and long sticks grasped in both hands, and some in ambulances and army wagons. In the mean time, at a late hour, we had rolled ourselves in our blankets and laid down on the bosom of mother earth, ami slept as we seldom sleep in our beds at home. Arising at five o'clock in the morning we found the ground, almost as far as we could see, covered with wounded men, Thick as autumn leaves that strew the brooks in Vallambrosa, who had come in during the night, and thrown themselves down in utter exhaustion. The first thing to furnish them was coffee and bread. Our own supplies of bread were soon exhausted, and we drew upon the government stores until our reinforcements came. The camp kettles were never suffered to become cold, and on some days as high as three hundred gallons of coffee were made and dis- tributed, with crackers in proportion. A call being made that morning for a detail from our number to assist the surgeons, I was honored with an appointment, and all that day, until darkness set in, was engaged in dressing the wounds of those who lay upon the ground, or came thronging down the hill on the Fredericksburg road. The next morning, other Delegates hav- ing arrived, a band of seventeen was formed to proceed to Freder- icksburg, with the distinct understanding that it would be necessary for us to walk the twelve or fifteen miles that lay between. This distance was greater than some of us had walked for twenty years, but we set out like the pilgrims of old, with our canteens and staves, — having thrown our blankets and haversacks into a wagon. Provi- AKMY OF Tin: POTOMAC. — LS64. 433 (Initially, after having walked about two miles, we were overtaken by an ambulance train, the ehief of which courteously invited us to take scats in the ambulances .• Delegate in cadi. Our train was guarded by an escort of cavalry, as the down train the evening before was attacked by guerrillas. At five o'clock we came in sight of the spires lit' Fredericksburg, and, crossing on the pontoons over the Etappahant k, found the headquarters of the Christian Com- mission. A I'ter taking some refreshment, we were distributed among the hospitals. Fredericksburg is now a dilapidated place. It bears the marks of General Burnside's attack, a year and a half ago. Hardly a house but has been battered l>v shot or shell. Some entire rows of buildings arc in ruins. Apart from the humanity and Chris- tian benevolence we saw exemplified everywhere, it was an awful place. The very buzzards swung themselves lazily over it, attracted by the horrid atmosphere that brooded over it by day and liv night There were IV eight to ten thousand men there, with almost every possible description of wounds, from the simple flesh wound of the musket hall to the awful mangling of the explosive shell and the mutilated trunk deprived of its limbs by amputation. The duties of the Delegates were not slight, prolonged as they s elimes were into the small hours of the night, as (rains of ambu- lance- came in containing some three or four hundred men, hungry, suffering, and dying. Often as these trains came in did we feel the shuddering, sickening sensation, that would force itself upon us; but it passed away as the stern duties of ministering to the wauls of the sufferers, and the warm expressions of gratitude falling from parched lips, telling of suffering at least partially relieved, turned the thoughts into belter channels. Our duties consisted in dressing wound-, supplying clothing and delicacies to the needy, writing let- ters for the disabled, pointing the suffering and the dying to the Lamb of < rod, and ministering at the grave over the remains of the departed. There was not a bed nor a cot in all Fredericksburg, except those occupied by rebel families. The men were laid on the floor, often for a while without even a blanket, and many of them with very little clothing, — it having been lost on the battle-field, or torn from them in order to dress their wounds. Often, as the long train- of ambuh es and army wagons from the front wended their way down the hill to the city and stopped, completely blocking up 434 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. the streets, the services of the Commission were brought into special requisition. Those who lay in these conveyances were faint and weary, and many of them actually dying. Some had not eaten for twenty-four hours, nor had their wounds been dressed for the same length of time. Coffee and bread were to be distributed among them, with stimulants for the worst eases, and sometimes, as they tar- ried, an extemporized prayer-meeting was held. Many affecting letters were written by the Delegates, as they knelt by the side of the wounded men. One brave fellow from New York, feeling that his time was short, was inditing a last letter to his friends. After disposing of his effects, and giving directions about his relations, he said, " Tell them we drove the rebels from the rifle-pits, and that the old Flag still waves up in the Wilderness." The general tone of the letters was hopeful; "Tell them not to fret ; we are doing well and have good attention, considering the circumstances." If ever there was a band of heroes on earth, those wounded men at Fredericks- burg composed such a band. 1 Neither complaint nor murmur ever escaped their lips. Not one seemed to regret his wounds or his sacri- fices, further than that they prevented him from participating in the battle which was still raging. They were most accessible to reli- gious advice and instruction. They welcomed the hour of morning and evening prayer, which was observed in almost every hospital, and were always ready to talk on the matter of great concern. There is every reason to suppose that many of these suffering men, as they lay on the hospital floors, sought and found the peace of God 1 The patience, heroism, and manliness of our soldiers, shown in so many ways and under such variety of circumstances, recall the noble testimony of Florence Nightingale respecting the English soldiers in the Crimea. She writes: — "I have never been able to join in the popular cry about the reck- lessness, sensuality, and helplessness of the soldier. I should say, — and per- haps few have seen more of the manufacturing and agricultural classes than I have before I came out here, — that I have never seen so teachable and helpful ;i class as the army generally. Give them opportunity promptly and securely to send money home, and they will use it. Give them schools and lectures, and they will come to them. Give them books and games and amusements, and they will leave off drinking. Give them work, and they will do it. Give them suffering, and they will bear it. I would rather have to do with the army than with any other class I have ever attempted to serve." — Chambers's History of the Crimean War, p. 008. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. — 1864. 135 that passeth all understanding, and died triumphing in redeeming love. At the end of two weeks orders were given for the breaking up of the hospitals and the evacuation of the plaee, as the army was about changing its base to White House. Prayer-meetings were held every evening, in- as often as possible, at the flying stations, even during an active campaign. The following extract, from a letter written by Rev. J. H. Edwards, presents a sketch of such a meeting in the Ninth Corps, in -Inly, 1864: — Let me tell you briefly about a prayer-meeting held last Sabbath evening at Third Division Hospital. The tents of the siek ward are arranged around an opening somewhat oval in shape. Three or four of US took our stand under a tree, near the tents which contained the worst cases, — men unable to walk. Our singing answered the purpose of church bells, and soon quite a congregation was gathered, reminding one of the groups we may imagine to have frequently surrounded the Saviour, — the lame, halt, and blind. Some came with canes, some on crutches, and one was brought on a stretcher and laid directly before us, — as of old the sick were brought mi beds and laid before Him whose touch was healing and whose words were lite. After prayer, the reading of Scripture, and some remarks by the brother who led the meeting, the soldiers were called upon to take part. At once two or three responded. They told of Coil's faithfulness to them in the hour of battle and through days and nights of sickness. Great anxiety was expressed for the conversion of their comrades. At one time two were speaking together, but in tones so weak that they did not, hear each other. One, an elderly man, bending on his cane, said, " I'm so weak I can't speak much, but I want to testify to the goodness of (iod to inc. I have tried to live a Christian life since I came into the army, in every place and all company, and I believe I can say that, through the grace of God, I have." The other one, who was speaking at the same moment, had lifted himself partially from under the By, beneath which he had been lying, and in a weak voice was telling of his hope and faith. When these bad finished, "Carleton," of the Boston Journal, 436 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. who had been drawn to the spot after the meeting had opened, could not withhold an expression of his feelings, and addressed the soldiers and led in prayer with great warmth of feeling. Then a soldier near the stretcher rose, not to his feet, but to his knees, and told of having been wounded in the leg in 1861, and of the wound having latelv become so troublesome that he could not stand or walk with- out great difficulty. Yet upon his knees he "stood up for Jesus." The bullets had flown thick around him, but his life had been pre- served, in answer to prayer, he believed. He had tried to serve his country and his God, and meant to hereafter. Others spoke in a similar strain, and remarks were made by one or two members of the Commission. The meeting was closed with prayer and the bene- diction. After the exercises were over, the following conversation was held with the soldier who had been lying on the stretcher before us during the meeting. " How did you come here?" " They brought me out." " Why did they bring you ?" " I asked them to; I wanted to come." "Are you a Christian?" "No; but I want to be." "Have you Christian parents?" "Yes, and they are praying that I may be." " But you must pray for yourself." " I know it, and I will try to." '.' We will pray for you in our tent to-night." ' "Oh do, and I will try and pray for myself." You may be assured that earnest supplication was made for that soul before we gave ourselves to rest. [YEAR 1865.] The form of organization, adopted early in 1864, by which the entire force of the Commission was divided into sections, each having an experienced leader and a clearly defined field of labor, was found to be well adapted to the exigencies of the work, both in summer and winter, and, with but few modifications, was retained until the close of the Avar. The assistant field agents, having the superintendence of the work during the winter of 1864-5, were, — Rev. E. F. Williams, in the Army of the James; Rev. S.S.Ashley, at base ; and Mr. M. B. Lowrie, in the Army of the Potomac. The ARMY OF TJIF, POTOMAC. — 1865. 437 Corps agents were, — Rev. II. V. Emmons, of the Second Corps; Mr. Geo. 8. ChaAe, of the Fifth; Rev. Geo. A. Hall, of the Sixth; Captain Thos. Chartres, of the Ninth; Mr. S. E. Fit/, of the Twenty-fourth; Mr. William Kirkby, of the [Twenty-fifth; and Rev. T. K. Noble, of the cavalry. The other agents in charge of special fields were, — R V. W. L. Tisdale, at Fortress Monroe; Rev. Elihu I omis, within defences of City Point ; Mr. II. F. ParFey, at hospital. Point of Rocks; Mr. Henry C. Hougl/ton, of the Individual Relief work ; and Mr. R. I). Douglass, of the Rusiness Depart- ment. All of these (were experienced agents, several having been engaged in the Commission service in other armies. The work of chis winter differed from that of the last in but few points, except that it was everywhere conducted on a larger scale. The stations were more commodious, and the material more abundant. The religious reading-matter distributed included a greater variety of publications than ever before, besides which there was at nearly every station a large loan library of well-selected books. One hundred and seventy-two thousand copies of the leading religious papers of the country were distributed each month, in these armies and in the Washington hospitals, besides Testaments, hymn books, knapsack books, and tracts, in proportion. One peculiar feature of the Commission work this year was that undertaken for the education of the colored troops in the Twenty-fifth Corps. For this work the Commission employed experienced teachers, and fur- nished to each regiment or brigade, — in addition to the usual equipment for a chapel, — tallies, primers, spelling- books, writing-books, black-boards, slates, pens, and ink, 438 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. — iii short everything that was needed to give to all an opportunity for mental improvement. The soldiers were very thankful for these advantages, and showed great eagerness to learn. Another important feature of the year was the introduction of ihe system of special diet kitchens, which, under the superintendence of M rs. Wit- tenmyer, had before this been in operation in the Western armies. These were located in tlv* general hospitals at ( 'it v Point and Pointof Rocks, and were, under the direction of Christian ladies appointeu\by the Commission, a valuable means of recovery to thousands of the sick, who needed nourishing and pal itable food even more than they needed medical treatment. These kitchens were mainly supplied from the, government stores and hospital fund, bu1 also received many articles from the Commission that could not be otherwise obtained. The Individual Relief Department was organized still more thoroughly during the year, and its usefulness extended in various wavs. The work of aiding soldiers in sending home their pay and surplus baggage grew to wondrous dimensions near the close of the war. When- ever the troops were being paid off the amounts broughl into the stations varied from fifty thousand to two hun- dred thousand dollars per day, in packages from fifteen to one hundred dollars each. And when the troops were ordered to reduce their baggage to light marching order, thousands upon thousands of packages, containing Overcoats, blankets, and clothing, which would otherwise have been lost, were forwarded by the agents of this department, and thus preserved for the soldiers and their families. Twice only, in all the insecurity and perils of receiving and carrying money among the camps, were Alf.MY OF THE POTOMAC. — 1865; 139 :i few hundred dollars lost, once by the explosion of ammunition, blowing into fragments the table at which the agent was receiving money, and once by robbery among bounty-jumpers. In neither of these cases did the soldiers' families suffer loss. How large a portion of the millions of money expressed borne by the Com- mission was saved from being squandered, can be esti- mated only by those who know the habits of army life. After the surrender of the enemy, at Appomattox Court Mouse, and the subsequent withdrawal of the troops, the agents of this department made a thorough search on all battle-fields around Petersburg and Rich- mond and the hospital burial grounds, carefully locating all graves discovered, copying the marks cut upon the rough head-boards, renewing these when needed, and otherwise protecting the graves, so that they should not be obliterated. The list thus obtained, increased by the records of Libby, Danville, and ( amp Lawton prisons, to eight thousand names, was published by the Commis- sion, lor gratuitous distribution among the friends of the lost. 1 1 The subjoined tetters are specimens of hundreds received by the Individual Relief Department. They not only indicate a terrible phase of army life, bul fur- nish a glimpse also into a multitude of suffering households. A new-made widow writes:- "I have been advised to address you concerning my dear departed husband's effects, He left some few fhings, such a* a coat, a knife, a pocket Bible, etc., which would be a great comfort to me in my deep affliction, it 1 can gel them Now, would you lie so very kind a> to see thai these things are sent to me by express? 1 have no friends there, and am compelled to ask these favors of strangers. If you will do me this greal favor, I can only say God "ill reward von for your kindness to a soldier's widow and Ins fatherless boy. In deep affliction, M. E. M." \ little girl pleads thus for a word from Iter loved father, who was already in his grave while she was writing: " It i- now lour weeks since we received li '• i fronj hi i di :ii' father, and heard that he was very sick, and we have nol 440 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. The following extracts, from the report of the General Field Agent, give the movements of the year more in detail: — At the beginning of the year the two great "armies operating against Richmond" were occupying a continuous line of fortifica- tions, fifty miles in length, — the Army of the Potomac being on the left, before Petersburg ; the Army of the James on the right, before Richmond. Seven long months had they laid siege to these devoted cities, wresting from them one stronghold after another, by fierce battles and midnight marches. Now they were comparatively at rest, although the sound of hostile guns never ceased, waiting in winter quarters the warm days and hardening roads of spring. The Christian Commission had been actively engaged during all these months, caring for the wounded and the sick, preaching the gospel of Christ in the camps, and supplying from its ample stores aliment for both body and mind. The Army of the Potomac was composed of the Second, Fifth, Sixth, and Ninth Army Corps ; the Army of the James, of the Twenty-fourth and Twenty-fifth, — the latter corps, recently organized, being composed exclusively of colored troops. Each army had a large base or depot hospital, — that of the Army of the Potomac being near City Point, the other about five miles distant, at Point of Rocks. At each of these large hospitals preparations had been made by the Commission early in the season for a complete establishment, con- sisting of a comfortable chapel, seating six hundred persons; a large, well-lighted reading-room, provided with library, files of daily anil weekly papers, and tables, with writing materials, free to soldiers ; a second chapel, for the use of colored soldiers ; a ware-room for hos- pital stores, and commodious quarters for the Delegates. These buildings were well made, without being expensive, covered heard a word since. This is the third letter we have sent off, and begged for any one to send ns back an answer whether my deaf father is dead or alive. My mother is almost crazy, because she cannot hear from my dear father. I wonder if anyone there would please be so kind as to write a few lines back again, whether my father is dead or alive. Please lie so kind as to write back. If we cannot pay you, the Lord will. Do please be so kind, and answer this letter. Anna H ." Alt.MY OF THE POTOMAC. 1865. Ill with roofs of boards and tarred paper, bad good floors, comfortable seals, were well wanned and lighted, and made attractive liy every available means. From teli to twenty Delegates were constantly employed at each, their duties being to visit each ward of the hospi- tal, to give personal attention to each patient, distribute good reading, cheer the patients, by conversing with them or writing letters for them, and to bold short religious services with them as often as prac- ticable. Meetings were also held in the chapel every evening, — the services consisting usually of a short sermon by a Delegate or chap- lain, followed by a prayer-meeting, in which the soldiers freely engaged. The reading-rooms were thronged with soldiers from morning till night, this being accounted the " pleasantest place in camp," and the chapel-meetings were well attended, and not unfrequently crowded to the utmost. At each hospital, throughout the winter, the blessed influences of the Holy Spirit were manifest. Scarcely a night passed but some soldier, and sometimes as many as one hundred, asked the pray/ers of Christians and sought the Saviour's blessing. Often as many as twenty or thirty have on the same evening resolved to con- secrate themselves to Christ. The influence of these meetings, so blessed by the presence of Cod, was very extensive, as men were constantly passing from these hospitals to their regiments in all parts of the army, carrying with them the power of their new life. Meet- ings were frequently conducted here also in the German language, for the benefit of many Germans, who greatly prized this unaccus- tomed privilege. The history of either one of these stations, could it be accurately written, would be not only of thrilling interest, but would present a most wonderful record of the mercy of God, in the quickening and conversion of souls ; of answers to prayer, and encouragements to faithful Christian effort. Very many poor sufferers, dying in these hospitals, far away from friends ami home, have been comforted and cheered by the kind attentions of the Delegates, ami been led to a faith in Christ and to a triumphant death. Very many hardened sinners, coming to the hospitals unbelieving, profane, and profligate, have gone away rejoicing, humble followers of Jesus. Here have tie prayers of many fathers and mothers been answered; here haye many desponding, doubting Christians received new courage, and 56 442 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. here have the hearts of the Lord's children burned within them as they talked of Jesus. When other parts of the army were in motion, and when other stations were broken up, these were undis- turbed, and from the first establishment of the hospitals until the final disbanding of the armies, — a period of nearly twelve months, — ■ they were a source of health, life, and peace to the suffering and needy. At the front, stations were established at central points in each corps, and were made as commodious and attractive as was possible, in the circumstances. There were sixteen stations, in all, located in the two armies. Each had a fine, large chapel and reading-room, and quarters for from five to ten Delegates. Many of the chapels were gems of rustic art, of beautiful proportions, the interior being adorned with wreaths and festoons of evergreen and holly. These chapels were occupied as reading-rooms during the day, and for ser- vices each evening and on the Sabbath, and were almost without exception the scenes of powerful revivals, being crowded to overflow- ing from night to night. From each station also the Delegates went regularly to the regi- ments in their vicinity, taking a weekly supply of religious reading, and in many instances holding meetings in the open air. The chap- lains of regiments were also supplied, as during the last winter, with canvas roofs, stoves, and lamps, thus enabling them to erect seventy- five large and comfortable houses of worship. Some of these were very large, — sixty feet in length by thirty-five in width, — several of this size being put up in the Twenty-fifth Corps, and used both* as chapels and school-rooms. For these colored troops the Commission furnished, not only roofing, stoves, and lights, but primers, black- boards, and readers, organizing the schools and providing them with teachers. The results of these schools were very satisfactory, the soldiers learning rapidly, and showing a great desire to improve. Although during the months of January and February there were many startling rumors of meditated attacks, and not a few changes . in the location of troops, the stations of the Commission, extending as they did along the line of the armies, from Hatcher's Run on the extreme left to Fort Harrison and Deep Bottom oil the right, accom- plished an extensive and valuable work. As the month of March came in it became evident that active AKMY OF THK POTOMAC. — 1865. 443 operations were to be resumed at a very early day, and vigorous pre* parations were made for what all felt must prove a long and bloody campaign. The corps sections were reorganized, wagons loaded with battle- field supplies, and everything made ready for a sudden movement. The chapels were left, however, until the last moment, and the meet- ings continued in them, growing in interest until the final breaking- u]i. One night the enemy made an unexpected attack upon the lines of the Ninth Corps, capturing a fort and penetrating far within our lines, only to be driven back, after a severe fight, with great loss of life. The wounded were taken to Meade Station, and our beauti- ful chape], which only the evening before had been occupied by quiet worshippers, was now filled with bleeding and dying men, some of them the same who, but a few hours before, had left that room in perfect health and vigor. So strange are the contrasts of war! The armies are now joined by Sheridan's famous cavalry, who hjave ciime, by forced marches, from the Valley of the Shenandoah, tn hear nn unimportant part in the closing struggles of the war. They cross the James and Appomattox rivers, on muffled bridges, under cover of the night, and encamp for a few days near the Army of the Potomac. Here they are joined by a section of the Commis- sion, and liberally supplied with stores, of which the war-worn heroes stand much in need. Ami now the whole army is in commotion. The cavalry take their position on the extreme left of the line, driving the enemy before them : a large force, composed of parts of the Twenty-fourth and Twenty-fifth Corps, cress from the right to the left, and join the Army of the Potomac. Winter camps arc broken up, and the im- mense hosts await, in battle line, the orders to advance Sheridan's cavalry and the Fifth Corps are early engaged, and, after a severe battle, gain a victory at Five Forks. Cannon and mortars, along the entire line, blaze and roar through the darkness of the night, until, just as the morning of the 1st of April dawns, the grand charge is made. Fearful slaughter ensues, but nothing can with- stand that charge. The enemy is driven back, and the line, which tui' eleven months had withstood every attack, arid before which thousands of brave soldiers had peri hed, seemingly in vain, was now broken, never to be reunited. Soon the word passed from corps 444 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. to corps, and on lightning wings from city to city and town to town, all through the broad land, " Richmond and Petersburg have fallen, and the armies of the Confederacy are in full retreat." Now begins the pursuit. Cavalry, infantry, and artillery, regard- less of fatigue, scarcely stopping for food or rest, press eagerly for- ward, over the muddy roads and through the swollen streams, now skirmishing with the enemy, now capturing a supply train, now fighting with an advance guard for an important pass, now cutting off an entire division, until, in just one week from the evacuation of Petersburg, the rebel army is completely surrounded, its General surrenders, and its veterans lay down their arms in presence of the victors, and the " Great Rebellion " is no more. The agents and Delegates of the Christian Commission were not idle during these eventful days. Organized into companies, under experienced leaders, and amply supplied with everything required, they were promptly at hand wherever there was work to be done. The railroad section, which was organized under the direction of Rev. Win. A. Lawrence, to attend especially to the wounded as they were moved from the field to railroad stations, and thence in cars to the depot hospital, was very busily employed, both night and day, furnishing hot coffee, crackers, and food, and giving special care to such as required it. First at Humphrey's Station, among the wounded of the cavalry and Second and Fifth Corps ; then at Warren Station, as the wounded of the Sixth Corps were moved from field hospitals to the base ; then at Meade Station, as the hospi- tals of the Ninth Corps were broken up, this section performed its valuable work. The Ninth Corps section, taking forward three heavy wagon-loads of supplies, established a station at Burkesville, where was a large depot hospital for the wounded. Many hundred men were brought here from the battle-fields, where they had lain for days without food or care. Government supplies, for some reason, were at first very scarce at this place, and the stores brought by the Commission proved exceedingly valuable. The Delegates worked night and day, nursing the wounded, cooking and distributing food, bringing loads of straw from neighboring plantations, and by every personal ministration seeking to fill the place of absent fathers and brothers. The Twenty-fourth Corps section was with the advance on the march, and relieved many of those who were wounded in the last ARMY OF THE POTOMAC- 1865. 44.", engagement of the war, also sending a detachment from its number with food and supplies for the hospitals at Farmyille. The Fifth Corps section, constantly at the front, afforded, with its "Coffee VVagon" and stores, material relief to the wounded, as they lay on THE COFFEE WAGON. 1 the field, the night after the battle of Five Forks, and then, attend- ing the flying hospital, followed the corps to Appomattox Court House. The Individual Relief corps of the Commission was actively engaged in searching out and imparting accurate information regard- ing the wounded and the dead, attending to special cases entrusted to it- charge, sending home thousands of packages of valuable- and ' The ( 'offer Wagon was invented, built, ami presented t<> the Commission, by Mr. Jacob Dunton, of Philadelphia. Tin' following description of (la- wagon and its use is by Kev. C. H. Richards, nneof the Delegates who rendered timely Bervice in the Ninth anil Eighteenth Corps, .Inly 30, 1864, — the day of the mine explosion and bloody repulse before Petersburg: — "I must refer particularly t" on,- prominent feature of their work for weary, wounded bodies on this day, which, for it- novelty and usefulness, deserves especial mention. Some of the newspapers have mentioned a now Cooking Wagon, presented by the inventor to the Christian Commission, which is thoroughly sui generis. It is constructed somewhat like a battery caisson, so that the parts can he onlimbered and sepa : rated from each other. The 'limber,' or forward part, hears a large chest 446 AXXALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. precious mementos from the soldiers to their loved ones there. At Richmond and Petersburg permanent stations were established, the Delegates being at first employed in the care of the sick and wounded in the Confederate hospitals, where many men were found in great destitution. At each place, but more particularly at Richmond, the Commission was compelled to assist many of the women and children, who were left entirely destitute of food by the burning of their which is divided into compartments to contain coffee, tea, sugar, and corn- starch, with a place, also, for two gridirons and an axe. From the rear portion rise three tall smoke-pipes above three large boilers, under which there ifi a place for the fire, and under the fire a box for the fuel. Each boiler will hold fourteen gallons, and it is estimated that in each one, on the march, ten gallons of tea, or coffee, or chocolate, could be made in twenty minutes, thus giving ninety gallons of nourishing drink every hour! It is truly a most ingenious and beneficent invention. "There was a call for coffee. A party of Delegates at once volunteered to respond to the call. The tires were lighted, the water boiled, the coftee made. and soon the vehicle, drawn by two powerful horses, and attended by half a score of willing laborers, was on its way from division to division. Up the hospital avenue it rumbled and rolled, past the long rows of white tents, stop- ping at this cluster and that, giving to all from its generous supply. You should have seen the wondering look of the men as it passed by. They rolled themselves over to get a glimpse of it. They stretched their necks for a sight of it. The wounded heads forgot to ache, and the wounded limbs almost forgot to cry for nursing in that moment of eager curiosity. Was it a new sort of ambulance? It did n't look like one. What did those three black pipes mean, and those three glowing fires? Is it a steam fire-engine, and are they going to give us a shower-bath? But the savory odor that saluted their nostrils, and the delicious beverage the engine poured into their little cups, soon put the matter beyond all doubt. They soon found that there was no necromancy about it, for it had a substantial blessing for each one of them, and (hey gave it their blessings in return. One by one, such as were able, crowded about it with curious faces, and the wagon, as it stood steaming and glowing in the midst, was the theme of many affectionate comments. 'I say, Bill, ain't that a bully machine?' ' Yes, sir; it's the greatest institution I ever saw.' ' That 's what you might call the Christian Light Artillery,' says a third. 'Good deal pleasanter ammunition in it than the Rebs sent us this morning.' ' Well, doc- tor,' said a Delegate to a surgeon, 'what do yon think of this?' 'I thank the Lord for it. That's all I can say,' was his reply. And so, on a sudden, the new invention was crowned with the praises and benediction's of the admiring crowd. It was a marked feature in the work of the day, and must be set down as one of the 'peculiar institutions' of the Commission." AR.MY OF THE POTOMAC. LS65. 447 homes and the destruction of their stores. This work was, however, soon taken off its hands by the Union Commission, which sent a large invoice of Hour and an agent to attend to its distribution. Thus, during these eventful days, at every point, the Commission was ready, with willing hands and abundant stores, to comfort and relieve the suffering. Thus closed the final campaign of the war. The troops, alter a few davs of rest, took up their line of march toward home; the hos- pital- and camps, one after another, were broken up, the stations of the < lommission were removed, and in a few weeks the army of the Potomac was encamped about Arlington Heights, on the very spot where, fmr years ago, it hail first been called into being. Here again, for a few weeks, was a precious opportunity to work for souls. To the veteran who, with task performed, now waited only that final order which would restore him as an honored citizen to the home circle, left long years ago, the w heels of time dragged heavily. What better time than this to direct his thoughts to that heavenly Father, who had spared him through all the perils of his army life, to urge him henceforth to a consecration of body and soul to that Father's service? The large canvas chapel, which a few weeks before he had left on the eve of battle to go forth to the uncertainties of a fierce campaign, now invited him to worship and to thanksgiving. In every corps ami permanent camp, these "tabernacles" were pitched, and nightly resounded with hymns of praise and prayers of triumph- ant faith. Here from the lips of veterans, who, in marches, in the trenches, in the storms of battle, and in the prisons of the foe, had for years braved the hardships of war, fell words of childlike faith and trust, testifying to the reality of that hope in Christ which had never deserted them, and which the darkness of the world could never take away. It was in truth a Pentecostal season to hundreds of souK one that can never be forgotten bv those who were permitted to partake in that "harvest home." Only a few short weeks did these scenes continue. The order came, the regiment- passed away, each to its parent Slate, ami henceforth the Army of the Potomac was to live only on the pages of history and in the memories of men. And with it closed that work, which, beginning in the efforts of a few to bring the blessings of practical Christianity to men who, in the new life of the army, were denied the 448 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. privileges of home, had extended over the whole period of the war; a work which had embraced the labors of hundreds of the Lord's children ; which had been followed, in its mission to the afflicted and the lost, by the prayers of ten times ten thousand faithful hearts; which had, in the name of Christ, brought healing to many a faint- ing body and life to many a perishing soul. Its record, too, shall live in the memories of men. Thousands will have reason to bear it in thankful remembrance for the help it brought to them in their hour of extremity. Thousands, stricken in the battles of the Penin- sula, at Chantilly, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Get- tysburg, Wilderness, Cold Harbor, Petersburg and Richmond, — those fainting by weariness on marches, and languishing by disease in army hospitals, — have reason to thank God for the help rendered them in the name of Christ. The souls that have in a hundred stations found peace through faith in His name, and been made heirs to an inheritance incorruptible and eternal, will never forget that work. When those who as humble instruments in the hand of God for this work, and those whom they sought to benefit, shall alike have passed away from earth and been forgotten, the influence of their labors shall still exist, imperishable as eternity. The following incidents, reported by Mr. Williams, still further illustrate the methods adopted in the sta- tions, and the success attending them: — About a mile to the rear of New Market Station, in a brigade of the third division of the Twenty-fourth Corps, commanded by General Henry, was Henry Station, one of the neatest and most finely ar- ranged stations in all the armies. It was established in December, 1864, and labor here continued uninterrupted till April 3d, 1865. The chapel was a tent, forty by thirty feet, neatly seated. The tent was pitched and seated, and the house for the Delegates erected, by soldiers who volunteered to do this work, out of pure love to the Commission and a desire to enjoy the benefits of the meetings. The meetings were always well attended, and a steady, quiet interest per- vaded them all. One evening we were sitting around the fire, discussing various subjects, and among them the best way of reaching the soldiers. A ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. — 1865. 449 soldier, who had come in unobserved with one of the Delegates after tlir evening meeting, and had s:i t in silence, listening to our conver- sation, started up with energy and great determination, ami trembling in every limb, stepped forward, placed both hands upon the table, looked us full in the face, and said, with the deepest feeling, "Well, Christian brethren, I have. come in to ask you to pray with me." We dropped upon our knees at once, rebuked in our hearts that we had not, some of us, noticed his anguish and spoken to him before. Every member of our circle besought God's Spirit, ami then he who had asked our prayers prayed for himself. One of our number went with tiir young man to his tent, and the next day lie was rejoicing in his new-found hope. Not long after, about two o'clock in the morning, the Delegates were aroused by a loud knocking at the door of their tent. One of them arose, and found two men in deep distress for their soul's salva- tion, anxious to have the brethren pray with them. Candles were lighted, and the morning hours wore away in earnest supplication with. God that he would give peace to these earnest seekers. Peace came, and through their influence many others were brought to Christ, till the number of conversions at the station exceeded a hun- dred. Nor was the interest confined to the meetings in our chapel, hut extended to regiments which had chaplains, who held religious services among their own men. One evening a man belonging to a battery, three-fourths of a mile from our chapel, strayed over to the meeting. He became greatly interested in the service. When about half-way home he kneeled by a stump and prayed. The next night, with a companion, he sought the meeting again. The stump saw two praying souls that night, and upon their return to camp they began to work for Christ, and in a few weeks forty men out of that battery alone found peace in believing. The following sketch of one day's work among the cavalry is given by Rev. Wm. A. Lawrence: As we came down from Hatcher's Run, two days ago, we met Sheridan's Cavalry just in from the White House, tiling of!' to the left of our line. On reaching City Point I found a plan was on foot 57 450 ANNALS OF THE CHKISTIAN COMMISSION. to pay these flying soldiers a flying visit, and in two hours brothers Loorais, Carpenter, Roberts, French and myself, were moving out with a four-horse wagon-load of supplies. We came upon Sheridan's men at ten the next morning, encamped for the day, three miles North of Hatcher's Run. We soon had our wagon " in position," and opened upon them with a brisk fire of Testaments, hymn-books, papers, writing-paper, needles, thread, etc., till we had pretty effectu- ally silenced calls in that direction. A box of Adams Express envelopes, packed among our stores, proved a special providence, for the pavmasters came into camp that morning and commenced pay- ing off the regiments. We gave out word at once that we would express it home for them, as soon as we could pitch our tent and get things in readiness. We selected a central spot near General Mer- ritt's headquarters, floated the blue Christian Commission flag, cooked our own dinner in the old Atlanta campaign style, deployed brothers French, Page, and Hamilton (who came up as reinforce- ments), as skirmishers among the camp, pitched our tent, posted brother Roberts outside with the reading-matter, stationery, etc., as a sort of " advance picket," while Loomis, Carpenter, and I took up a strong position behind a breastwork of boxes at the entrance of the tent, and prepared to receive the "enemy," — the love of which is the root of all evil, — in a becoming manner. The boys were ready with their money as soon as we were ready to receive it, and all three fell hard at work. Carpenter, veteran Christian Commission cashier and expressman, was in his glory. Seated on a box of farina, with an empty dry goods box for a desk, and a broken blackberry cordial bottle for an inkstand, his coat off, and taking money and names, giving Testaments and answering questions, his face radiant with benevolence and fun, — you should have seen and heard him. "Who's the next man that wants to send his money home?" "John Monoye." "How d'ye spell it?" "J-o-h-n." "No! I know how to spell John, — the last name?" " Yes, my friend, I hope that book will be your constant compan- ion." " Write to United States Christian Commission, City Point, for your receipt, if the money don't go right." "Who's the next man? A bundle to send home; Loomis, that's in your department. Don't hurry, boys; we shall be here all night, if you don't crowd us to death before." " One hundred dollars." " Mrs. or Miss ?" " All ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. 1865. -1~»1 right." "Writing paper? Thai man outside will give it to you." " Yes, gel a permit from your company commander, and Mr. Loomis there will send it for you." " You're very welcome, sir ; your wife will be glad to get the money, no doubt." "Christian Kempfer? I hope you are a Christian indeed. How is that?" "How much did you say?" — and so on till at eleven at night, when we closed the tent. We had received two hundred and fifty-seven packages of money, containing in all over twenty-two thousand dollars. We wrote out invoices till one, then put the money under our heads for a pillow, ami slept soundly till daylight, when we were roused up, and, with- out time to make so simple a toilet as to put on our coats, com- menced expressing money again in the greatest haste. The whole command were ordered to move at an early hour, and this was the last chance the poor fellows might ever have to send their well- earned money to old father or wife or children. At nine o'clock we had expressed three hundred and sixty-nine packages, containing over thirty thousand dollars. Then came the bugle order "prepare to march," "mount," and in a few minutes all around us was as silent as a prairie. The whole command had vanished, and our short work was done. We had been among them only twenty-four hours, but it seemed like a year's work of common life, so crowded were the hours with opportunities to serve these dear fellows that we can reach but seldom at the best. The pleasantest part of it all was, the faith the men had in us as members of the Commission. They handed over their money to us without asking a question or taking any kind of a receipt. We were Christian Commission and they were all right, and in this confidence was their strongest security after all; for I would work my fingers to the bone sooner than by any fault of mine such men should lose and such trust be betrayed. God grant that in due time the name of Christian may mean always " not slothful in business" as well as "fervent in spirit;" may mean all that is noble and lovely and trustworthy; and thanks be to Him if the Commis- sion can do anything toward bringing back to Christ once more the blessed name of Christian ! A few days later, while the battle of Five Forks was raging, one of Sheridan's men, galloping past a Delegate, caught sight of the badge, reined up, fumbled under his blouse, drew out a roll of bank 452 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. bills, and turning it into the Delegate's hand, said, "Send this to my sister, Sarah J ; she lives in ." Before the Delegate could ask the name and regiment of the unknown cavalryman he had taken his place in the line ready for action. The money was sent, and we trust the brave man came out of the fight to confirm at home his confidence in the badge of the Christian Commission. Mr. Williams gives the following report of the educa- tional work in the Twenty -fifth Corps: — The work in the Twenty-fifth Corps (colored), though resembling in its more general features that in the Twenty-fourth, yet differed from it in several important respects. Very many of the men could not read. It was useless to distribute reading-matter among them. Something must be done to teach them. A meeting of the chaplains of this corps was called at Butler Station, early in the winter, at- tended by chaplains who had ridden ten miles through rain and mud. The Commission proposed to furnish teachers, primers, blackboards, chalk, and such other aid as might be necessary, if they would at once organize schools in their regiments, and throw their influence in favor of the schools which the Commission would organize in regi- ments destitute of chaplains. Hearty assent was given, and resolu- tions of thanks passed. The Executive Committee at Philadelphia responded cordially to our appeal, and sent out circulars calling for fifty teachers for colored soldiers. All the primers in the market were bought up, old spelling-books were collected in many a town at the North, blackboards were made in the field, and lumber obtained for seats and writing-desks for school-rooms. Applications for canvas were multiplied, negroes in blue could be seen everywhere, carrying huge logs upon their shoulders for the school-house, till thirty neat and commodious edifices attested the eagerness of the colored men to learn to read and write. Officers uniformly approved the plan, and in a very short time after the meeting at Butler Station schools were in progress in nearly every regiment in the Twenty-fifth Corps. To facilitate this work two very large Commission stations were estab- lished in the corps, and both being within easy reach of the enemy's guns, gave every newly-arrived Delegate the peculiar sensations of being for the first time under fire. Birney Station, named in honor ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. — L865. 153 of Major-General I). B. Birney, who showed us great kindness from first to last, was located upon a hill, just in the rear of Fort Burnham, and under the guns of the rebel Fort Gilmer. The chapel-tent was pitched, seated and dedicated in a single day. The sermon was preached by the Rev. Edward Hawes, of Philadelphia, whose people generously paid six hundred dollars for the canvas, and named it the "Hawes Tabernacle." Ten regiments were reached from this station. The schools were held in day and evening sessions. The men came in by reliefs, as picket and fatigue duty would allow, three thousand in a week, for their turn to drink at this little stream of knowledge. They showed great eagerness to learn. Some, with- out any knowledge of the alphabet, learned to read in easy sentences in six days. And for the majority, according to the uniform report of the teachers, the average time required to learn to read in easy sentences was only four weeks. The pupils carried out the normal system thoroughly, for as soon as they had acquired one letter they cast about at mice to teach it to some one more ignorant than them- selves. So that one teacher, multiplied in this geometrical ratio, was very soon felt as an educating power in an entire regiment. As an educational, civilizing, religious effort, the work of the winter was abundantly successful. It was the uniform testimony of the chap- lains and the officers of the regiments, that those taught in our schools were more obedient and respectful to their officers; discipline was improved; habits of vice were cheeked, and in many cases gen- uine religious interest was excited. Wild Station, a mile to the south of Birney, and three-fourth- of a mile from Fort Brady, was conducted on the general plan above described. Schools were established in each regiment; services were held in the open air, for the benefit of the regiments, upon the Sab- bath; and prayer-meetings attended during the week. But the great work here, as at Birney, was the instruction of the men. Hundreds of those who could not read at the beginning of winter were >ntli- ciently advanced at its close to read in the Testament; and many of them had learned to write with rapidity and elegance. It was no uncommon thing for one, riding along the line of works held by this corps, to see men at every step of his progress, reading or stud) ing in their primers, politely bowing as he passed, as if tiny recognized in him the giver of the blessings they had found. 454 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. From eight to ten thousand papers per week were distributed in this corps, and we had the assurance that they were read with quite as much care and interest as in any part of the army. Testaments, tracts and Bibles were also distributed freely, and at the opening of the campaign few men marched without something to read in their knapsacks. After the capture of Lee's army, and the return of the Twenty-fifth Corps to the vicinity of City Point, the work was, at the request of the General in command, again commenced, and from every officer in authority, from the highest to the lowest, all possible assistance was given to the Delegates, who were ready to devote themselves to the instruction of the men. When the corps subsequently embarked for Texas, Mr. William Kirkby, the corps agent, whose earnest efforts had already accom- plished much for the men, accompanied them, taking supplies for the sick, and material for opening schools when they should again go into camp. He was afterwards joined by other Delegates, who car- ried on the work which had been so well begun, establishing stations and schools at several points on the Rio Grande and at Indianola. CHAPTER VIII. WORK IN THE ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 1 Until the telegrams reached Philadelphia of the buttle of Stone River, Dee. 31, 1862, the Christian Commission had done little work in the Army of the Cumberland, except to supply chaplains and other volunteer distributors, by mail and express, with reli- gious papers and the Scriptures. Upon the announce- ment of this battle an enthusiastic night meeting gathered in the rooms of the Young Men's Christian Association. Thirty-two Delegates volunteered, were equipped and supplied with three tons of battle stores, and at 11 o'clock p.m. Delegates and supplies were on the express train for the AVest. At Nashville they were met by another party of Delegates, hastening from Chicago on the same mission. Owing to want of pre- paration and previous organization, and in the confusion incident to a decisive army movement and a great battle, this attempt at relief was not altogether satisfac- tory in its results; yet, so great were the demand and opportunities for personal ministrations, in the extem- porized hospitals at Murfreesboro' and Nashville, that these Delegates were able to bring great relief to many 1 Thia chapter was prepared by Rev. E. V. Smith, General Field Agent in the Army of the Cumberland. 455 456 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. suffering men. This experience prepared the way for a more efficient work, and two months later, Rev. E. P. Smith 1 was sent to organize and superintend the Com- mission work in the Army of the Cumberland. Mr. Smith reached Nashville in April, with four boxes of supplies and seven Delegates. The coming of the Commission was most opportune. A council of army chaplains, convened at Murfreesboro' a few days before, had appointed a committee to devise means to furnish their regiments with Testaments and religious reading. They welcomed the Commission most heartily, and from that day to the end of the war the relations between the chaplains in this department and the Commission were most happy and mutually beneficial. They gave the Delegates free access to their regiments, made appointments for them, and often came in to take part in Commission meetings. The difficulties of transportation with which this army contended during all its campaigns modified the Commission's method of field labor. Instead of follow- ing the troops, with wagons loaded with supplies, and tents for chapels and Delegates' quarters, the Commission was obliged to keep to the line of the railroads, taking supplies on the cars, and finding chapel room and storage and quarters in churches and other buildings assigned by military order. 2 The same difficulty of transporta- tion, however, kept the army along the railroads, and with but one exception, the campaign from Nashville to 1 See p. 147. 2 This difference of method will explain the fact that few chapel-tente were used in the Army of the Cumberland, and that it furnished no pictorial illus- tration for these Annals. -- WOEK IN THE AK.YIY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 457 Atlanta, in every hall of even a few days the main body of troops camped around some (own or village, where, by the favor of the military, the Commission found good buildings for its purposes of living and working. A Commission "station" consists of chapel, store-room, soldiers' reading and writing-room, and quarters for from five to fifty Delegates. Frequently in the time of a battle or the occupation of a newly-captured town, one large ball or a church has been made for a few days to till all these offices. When the army moved, driving the enemy along the railroad, the construction corps followed, repairing the road and relaying the track. While this was being done the Delegates walked with the army, and the stores were sent forward upon govern- ment wagons and in the ambulances which had come in with the sick and were returning empty to the front. At once, on entering the lines, rooms were opened at Nashville and Murfreesboro'. At Nashville, Delegate Crawford was left in charge, and was very fortunate in securing a large store-room, on Cherry street, just vacated by the United States Sanitary Commission-. For the first four months this store was our only home. and the Delegates will not soon forget their initiation into army life, — sleeping on <\ry goods shelves and boxes, partaking the scanty fare served up by a disabled sol- dier, who volunteered to cook for our mess. As supplies from Ohio ami Pennsylvania, forwarded from the branch offices at Cincinnati and Pittsburg, multiplied, other quarters for Delegates and another store-room were obtained, and this large room was used during the war as a reading and free writing-room for soldiers. The use made of this room will be readily seen from 58 458 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. the card put into the hands of the soldiers as they entered :• — The newspapers hanging on the files are dailies and weeklies from your State and County. Sit down and read. The writing-table and stationery on the left are for your use. They want to hear from you at home. If out of stamps, drop your letter in the box ; wo will stamp and mail it, Those Testaments, hymn-books, and religious papers were sent to you; take one. That library back of the railing has many interesting books; find the one you like, have it recorded, and return it in five days. If you are in trouble, speak to any agent in the room ; you are the one he wants to see. At 3' P.M. everybody come to our " prayer-meeting" in the Second Presbyterian Church, College Street, below the Public Square. The Saviour will be there. He says, "Come." ' Directly opposite were the Maxwell Barracks, called by the soldiers " Zollicoffer," composed of the roof, walls, and partitions of a large five-story hotel, without windows and without fire. This was the Soldier's Ex- change. On his way to or from the front, while he re- mained in Nashville, he was a prisoner in these forlorn rooms. Hundreds, and sometimes as many as three thousand, were put in for the night, nearly all of them to pass on in the morning. Here the Commission had an interesting work during the war. 2 Each morning the soldiers leaving for the front were supplied with papers, Testaments, and hymn-books. There were few soldiers in all Rosecrans's or Sherman's army who did not have at least one night's experience in these barracks. 1 A tall Wisconsin soldier drew his sleeve across his moistened eye as he read this card. When asked if he was in trouble, "No," said he, " but this is the first roof under which I have been made welcome since I came from home." 2 On the first night of his arrival Delegate Crawford made his way to the third story, and called the soldiers together for a prayer-meeting, which succeeding Delegates sustained, with scarcely an interruption, until July, 1865. WORK IN THE AliMY OF THE CUMBERI/AND. 459 In May, Delegate Moody, from Chicago, opened a daily prayer-meeting in the basement of the Second Presbyterian Church, which was kept up without inter- mission for a year, and was then removed to McKendree Chapel. By its long continuance it became widely known in the army, and was the favorite resort of Christian soldiers passing through, and especially of those who were seeking to become Christians. During the first winter it was led daily by the Colonel of the Eighteenth Michigan Regiment. In these meetings, for a few months, the frequent testimony from the soldiers was, "This is the first prayer-meeting I have had the privilege of attending since I enlisted." Before the year closed such statements were seldom heard in any part of the army. Six large hospitals in Nashville soon came into the care of the Commission religiously. Convalescent Camp, beyond the Chattanooga depot, presented a most inte- resting field of labor. The men gathered here were neither sick nor well. Separated from their comrades and their regimental quarter masters, they were in deso- late and often destitute circumstances. A daily prayer- meeting was held for a while in the open air, whenever the weather would permit, and large quantities of cloth- ing wire distributed. In the autumn a large chapel tent was erected, which served for reading-room and writing-room, and chapel for two services per day. The commandant of the camp, stopping the agent on the street one day after the opening of the chapel, said, "You have let a streak of sunshine into my camp." Murfreesboro' was headquarters of the army at the time of the arrival of the, Commission, and for three 400 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. months afforded rare opportunity for its work. Rev. Henry Powers was Delegate in charge. 1 Nearly forty thousand men, made thoughtful in the hattle of Stone River, were encamped within the radius of a mile. A large majority of them had lost their Testaments, with their knapsacks, in that hattle. A systematic distribu- tion of the Scriptures to all the regiments was at once undertaken. In the month of May, twenty-five thou- sand copies of Scripture, donated by the American Bible Society, and thirty thousand soldiers' hymn-books, were given away, and never has God's praise been sung in nobler chorus than that with which the camps around Murfreesboro' echoed in those summer evenings. In a few weeks there were tokens of unusual religious interest. Chaplains held extra meetings in their regiments. The Delegates, increased to thirty, labored incessantly and with most blessed results, — holding prayer-meetings, distributing religious reading, preaching in camps, and persuading men everywhere to accept the Saviour. Many a halting Christian was revived and saved, and souls by scores were converted to Christ. At one of the moonlight meetings, in Convalescent Camp, five hundred arose for prayers. Often since, along the line of the army's march and in Chattanooga, in the soldiers' meetings, has grateful mention been made of the refreshing from the Lord at 1 For the first six months of the work in the army of the Cumberland, be- fore the abundant hospital supplies came in from Cincinnati ami Pittsburg, only two permanent agents were employed, the other work being done by Delegates. Those who held the more important positions remained from six to eight weeks. Afterward, as the stores for distribution increased, the number of permanent men in charge was increased to eight, who held all the import- ant points of the Commission in this army. WORK IX TIIK ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 1<'>1 Murfreesboro'. In the September following, several soldiers, coming from the front, on a train of cars, passed over the field of Stone River battle. They were recounting their campaigns and fights. They had beeri at Pea Ridge, Shiloh, Fort Donelson, and Perry ville. "Yes, partner," replied one of the group, "I know as much of those fights as any of you; but yonder is a spot," — pointing to the remains of a brush camp, — " which I shall remember when I have forgotten them all, and this Stone River beside." "What's there?" asked his comrades. "I found Jesus there," was the answer. An Illinois lieutenant said, with deep emotion, at a meeting in Stevenson, "I was just giving up my religion when God saved me, in your prayer-meetings at Murfreesboro'." This remarkable religious interest continued and deepened until the army broke camp, June 24. The Commission station at Murfreesboro' was kept up till August, ministering to the garrison and to a large con- valescent camp. In October, the hospitals with the wounded from Chickamauga again called for the relief and religious ministrations of the Delegates. The sta- tion was reopened, and the Delegates continued for nearly a year to labor most harmoniously and delight- rally with the poet chaplain, Rev. William Earnshaw. At Tullahoma a station was set up, and clothing and reading distributed to the men who lost their knapsacks in the fight at Hoover's Gap and in the march of seven- teen rainy days. With Winchester for headquarters-, the army rested about four weeks. Here the Commission work, broken oil' at Murfreesboro', began again. Regiments were 462 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. supplied with religious reading, preaching services and prayer-meetings were held in camps, and two daily prayer-meetings in the churches in town. "The blessed season at Winchester" was afterwards a frequent topic at the front, as the Delegates met the men who prayed and sang with them there. Cowan, as the army moved on to Stevenson, became the convalescent camp, and, like all such camps, was naturally a desolate place. To these convalescents the Commission ministered with hospital stores, reading- matter, and the Gospel of our Lord, through the sympa- thy and earnest labor of Delegates. In this exhausting labor two of the Delegates broke down and returned to Nashville ; where one recovered from a protracted fever, and the other, Mr. A. E. Dyer, of Harmony, Maine, after partial recovery, died, on Sunday, the 15th of November. At Stevenson, while the army halted in the march to Chattanooga, and for the three months after, till Dec. 1, the Commission labored in the large field hospital and among the camps. General Sheridan gave the Commis- sion the only church in the place, which, with its two stories, made a Delegate's home, a writing-room and a chapel, and often quarters for soldiers passing to their regiments and spending the night in Stevenson without shelter or food. At this point, also, Rev. B. Parsons, agent in charge, received and fed with coffee, bread, and soup, hundreds of wounded men brought in ambu- lances and wagons from the battle-field of Chickamauga, on their way to Nashville. The commissary of the post saw what Mr. Parsons was trying to do, and volun- WORK IX TIIK AKMY OF Till", CUMBERLAND. AtY.^ fcarily ordered rations and a detail of fifty men to carry nut the plan. 1 Many and many a heartfelt "God bless you!" did the warm food call forth, from sufferers in all Stages of wounds and fevers, who had ridden sixty miles in government wagons without springs, over the rocky steeps of Waldon's Ridge and through the muddy Ten- nessee bottoms. At Bridgeport, ten miles farther on, a tent station was opened. Here Major-General Howard, in command, left nothing undone for the comfort and success of the Commission. In addition to our work among the troops, he requested the agent, Rev. R. D. Douglass, to take charge of some poor families in the vicinity, and to draw rations for their weekly supply. Many of the wounded from Ohickamauga were put into hospitals at this point. By an arrangement with the surgeon in charge, a Delegate went daily, at a stated hour, to offi- ciate in the burial service of the dead. For several weeks the deaths averaged three per day. One Dele- gate reports, during his time of service, one hundred 1 Tlir following are the orders alluded to: — Office Issuing Commissary, Stevenson, Ala., i September 24, 1863. I Ai.i. Bakeries at this Post: — Yon will deliver to Rev. Benjamin Parsons, Field Agent of die United States Christian Commission, all the fresh bread that he may need for the use iif wounded soldiers, taking his receipt for the same. I will replace the bread with lluiii- pound for pound. This to remain in force until further orders. J. R. Fitch, Captain mid Acting Commissary. Stevenson, Ala.. Sept* mbi r -I. 1S63. Issuing Clerk: — Deliver to Rev. Benjamin Parsons, Field Agent United States Christian Commission, what sugar and coffee he may need, taking his receipt for the same. J. R. Fitch, Captain and Acting Commissary. 464 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. funerals at this hospital, — writing a letter and sending a lock of hair to friends in each case where the address could be found. The quartermaster of the post offered a tent, benches, and desks, if the Commission would open a school for the children of the poor white employees of the govern- ment. Delegate Hughes from Ohio undertook it, and made it a very happy part of the Commission work. A school was also opened for contrabands, — adults and children. The chapel tent, with its daily service of prayer and jn-eaching, proved a great comfort, and was doubtless a means of lasting good to many soldiers. At Chattanooga, a few days after the evacuation, Delegate T. R. Ewing secured rooms in the town and put out the Christian Commission sign. The force of Delegates was then so light that, when the battle of Chiekamauga came on, there were only three relief men in the field, and transportation, — more than sixty miles and over the mountains, — was so difficult that very few hospital stores were at hand. But with those few the three Delegates were able to minister to suffering and dying men. Rev. John Hussey was sent by a surgeon, during the fight, to help the wounded at Crawfish Spring Hospital, and was captured, with the hospital, by the enemy. He was taken to Libby, and after a short im- prisonment was released on the interposition of the Commission officers at Philadelphia. 1 Near the last of September a choice invoice of Com- mission stores for the wounded was loaded, by the quar- termaster at Stevenson, on seven government wagons, and put into the supply train for Chattanooga. This 1 See p. 156. WORK IN THE AEMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 465 was the train which was attacked by Wheeler's Cavalry while ascending Waldon'a Ridge, and within one day of its destination. The whole train of seven hundred wagons, loaded with supplies, was burned on the spot and the mules shot in their harness. The Commission's loss was irreparable. The wounded from Chickamauga fdled every available room in Chattanooga. So crowded were they as to require the Commission chapel, and even part of the Delegates' quarters, for hospital accommoda- tions. For all the sick of the army alter a long march and the wounded after a hard fight, — many of them brought in under a flag of truce, having lain in the rebels' hands for ten or fourteen days, with their wounds scarcely dressed, — there were very few supplies, save the ordinary army rations, and these were soon cut down to the one-quarter ration. AVell men were weakened by hunger; mules staggered about till they dropped in the streets. For the few animals that survived it was neces- sary to put a guard over the feed boxes, to keep the sol- diers from devouring their corn. Men in hospital sank away for want of nourishment. Transportation became so difficult, over the mountains, that six mules could not haul corn enough from Bridgeport for their own forage on the trip to Chattanooga and return. Bragg's bat- teries, on the nose of Lookout Mountain, were dropping occasional shells on Main Street, as if in insolent joy over our misery and speedy capture. In these gloomy days the Delegates, largely increased in number by re- inforcements that had worked their way on foot from Bridgeport, entered upon by far the most important Commission work of the year in this Department. It was to comfort these desolate and dying men; to divide 59 46G ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. the scanty stores at hand, and every additional box brought through with great labor, among the most needy where all were in need; to provide stationery, and keep communication ojien between these hospitals and friends at home; to make the daily round of the gangrene wards, and of cots where the surgeon had said there was no hope of recovery; to hold themselves ready on call of ward-master or nurse, to "come and see a man that is dying and wants a chaplain;" and to take in trust me- mentos and last words. The general field hospital was two miles out of town, on the opposite side of the Tennessee river. Here Dele- gates Burnell, Hawes and Butterfield pitched their tent, and during the brief existence of the hospital accom- plished great good. At this hospital the wounded were loaded into mule wagons for transportation to Bridge- port. The road lay over precipices so steep and rocky that the wagons were often let down by ropes from one rock to another, amid the groans and shrieks of tortured men. So excruciatingly painful was this descent of Waldon's Ridge that some of the sufferers begged the privilege of crawling down the rocks and dragging their wounded limbs after them. There has been in the war no more touching scene than was presented one morning among those wagons, loaded with wounded and about to start on their perilous journey to Bridgeport. Each man lying on the wagon bottom, without straw to break the rough jolting, and many without the canvas cover to jn'otect from the rain and sun, was experimenting to find a comfortable position, and resorting to all expedients to provide himself for the way with a canteen of water and a few hard crackers in his haversack. All were thought- Woi;K IX THE AIIMV or THE CUMBERLAND. 467 ful and anxious. Chickamauga was a defeat, and the glOom of an army strikes firsi and deepest upon its hos- pitals. 'Hie Delegates were busy attending, as far as possible, the personal wants of the men in the different wagons. When the train was ready and waiting the order to move, Mr. Burnell, standing on a driver's seat, propo'sed a prayer-meeting. " Yes, yes, give us a prayer- meeting," came from a hundred voices. The hymn, "When I can read my title clear;" a few words of the Saviour's love and cheer; a prayer for the sufferers, si • of whom would die on their way, and for their comrades remaining, many of whom would die for want of such transportation, and for their country and the friends far away, perhaps even now praying for them; the benedic- tion of peace and the fervent responding "amen," were all the services of this wagon prayer-meeting; — to not a few of the worshippers their last earthly scene of song and prayer. In three weeks this hospital, depleted by death and the wagon trains, was broken up, and the severest ampu- tated cases brought into Chattanooga, to linger a few weeks longer. In the quarters of the Commission in Chattanooga a diet kitchen was extemporized and superintended by Mrs. 1)., of Wisconsin, — cod-fish soup, flavored with an Occasional potato, being the chief luxury dispensed for many days. Afterward, when the wagon-route from Kelly's Landing was opened by the timely arrival of General Hooker's force, chicken, roast apples, canned milk and fresh grapes were added to the hill of distri- bution. Admission to all the wards was freely granted by the surgeons, and in some of them the men, languish- 468 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. ing from amputation, came to depend upon us for their daily meal. Great as was the work now devolving upon the Com- mission, the difficulties in procuring transportation of stores and passes for Delegates were increasing. No special order had yet been issued in this army, giving the Commission these facilities. General Grant had just assumed command, and was altogether occupied in marshaling and feeding: his forces that were to relieve the siege of Chattanooga. A personal interview was, however, readily accorded to the Field Agent of the Commission, and General Grant, after hearing a state- ment of the case, at once gave orders whereby the de- sired facilities were secured. 1 Early in November the Baptist church, which had been assigned for a Commission chapel, and afterwards taken for hospital purposes, was restored, and a series of nightly meetings began, which soon became wonder- ful in interest and spiritual profit. The first half hour of the evening was given to prayer and relation of religious experience; then came the sermon by a Dele- gate or chaplain, followed by a special service for those who desired to become Christians. The experiences were not the repetitious accounts often given on such occasions. Nearly all the worshippers had been on the Chickamauga field. They had been saved from capture and death, while many comrades had fallen. They crowded to the chapel with thanksgivings and confes- sions, and with importunities for their unconverted comrades to come to the Saviour. A half hour before the time for service the chapel was often so crowded as 1 See p. 149, and the Special Order given on p. 141. WORK IN THE ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 469 to make it difficult for the preacher to go through the aisle to the pulpit. Twenty, forty, and one night more than one hundred, asked for prayers. One evening, when room could not be found to invite forward those who desired prayers, and an expression of feeling by the uplifted hand was called. for, all were deeply affected by seeing a hand thrust in through the window. An anxious soul standing without desired to see Jesus. At a meeting, when opportunity was given for any to ex- press their feelings, an Illinois soldier arose in the audi- ence, and, with a decided manner and tone, said: — My fellow soldiers, I am not excited ; I am convinced, — that's all. I feel that I ought to be a Christian, — that I ought to say so, — to tell you so, ami to ask you to come with me; and now if there is a call fur sinners seeking Christ to come forward, I for one shall go, — not. on account of excitement, for I tell you my heart never beat steadier in my lite, — not to make a show, for I have nothing but sin to show ; I do not go because I want to, — I would rather keep my seat, — but going will be telling the truth ; I ought to be a Christian, — I want to be a Christian, — and going forward for prayers is just tell- ing the truth about it. Say, comrades, won't you go with me? And without waiting for their answer, or for a formal invitation from the preacher, he strode down the aisle and knelt at the altar, with more than a score of his comrades following and kneeling around him. It scarcely need he added that salvation came that night to that sincere seeker. The interest and solemnity of these meetings grew nightly through the month of Novemher, while the army preparations for a great battle, apparent to the eye of veterans, were in daily progress. At length General Grant had mustered his forces for 470 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. the relief of Chattanooga. General Hooker held the right, and General Sherman, marching his men from Mississippi, closed in on the left. The chapel had been ordered vacated for hospital purposes. Every regi- ment was under marching orders. Then came the last meeting. Every soldier felt it to be his last hour of prayer before going into the deadly conflict. The meet- ing is represented as alternating from painful solemnity to the joy of Christian victory ; and three days after, when the smoke of battle had cleared up from Mission Ridge, many of those fears and hopes were found realized in the death of the brothers of that meeting. Name after name, on the death-roll of that battle, re- called those chapel scenes, and in the flying hospitals and the wards in the town the Delegates met daily with men who confessed the blessedness of those meetings. Near midnight of Sabbath, November 22, General Howard's corps marched in silence along the back street of Chattanooga, to take their position on the front and left of the town, in readiness for the impending fight. They were veterans of the Army of the Potomac, who had marched up and down the Shenandoah Valley, crossed the Rappahannock in both directions, and shared in the reputation of Bull Run. They seemed not to have forgotten the Potomac idea of a battle, for one of them was overheard, as they passed by the Commission quarters, calling out to his comrade, " I say, Jim, who will cover Washington to-morrow?" On Monday afternoon the fighting commenced in front of the town. General Thomas's men readily car- ried Pilot Knob, the highest point between the town and the ridge, and there lay on their arms for the night. WORK IX Till: AKMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 471 On Tuesday skirmishing continued all along the line, without decisive result, till about two o'clock, when we beard the shout of a charge and the cheers of victory, and saw, through the lifting clouds, Genera] Hooker's men chasing the rebel forces around the nose of Look- out Mountain. Then the cheer was taken up by divi- sions, and passed from Lookout along the foot of Mission Ridge, through Granger's and Palmer's and Howard's corps, and on to the left, till it could scarcely he heard from Sherman's men at the end of the Ridge, three miles away. A party of Delegates made their way that night, as best they could, across Chat- tanooga < 'reek, to look after any wounded who might be left on the field. But so thoroughly were our forces masters of the situation that they carried all their wounded at once to the hospital, and gave them every medical attention. On Wednesday morning the skir- mishing became more lively. The General Field Agent of the Commission continues the story in his report: — Genera] Sherman now began to strike heavy blows for the railroad communication through the tunnel. Twice we saw his long blue lino move over a corn-field, up to the skirts of the woods, ami tall rapidly back. The third time they marched up and held their ground. We knew that many men must have gone down under that terrible lire' at short range, and that tin' corn-field must lie full of suffi rers. A party Hi' Delegates started on foot, to carry such relief as they could, with coffee-kettles, stimulants, and bandages. A.s we were passing along the line of General Wood's division, Colonel Stanley called out to us, ami pointing up the ridge, said, " There '.\ill ho work enough for you right here in a few minutes." While he was speaking a line of blue mats went over our first lino of works, and a little further on a line of gray coats left theirs; both lines swept up the hill, 'flic rebels massed their standards and rallied their forces at the p. lint of the ridge direct!} in from of our climbing columns, 472 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. or rather climbing mass, for every man was stretching away for him- self, fired with the single purpose of gaining the top. Under this musketry in front and the enfilading fire of forty cannon trained on them from either side along the ridge, they went on and up, till the field was ours, the siege of Chattanooga was raised, and the rebels had abandoned their last stronghold along the line of the Tennessee river. Rev. W. F. Loomis, who had done most efficient service in the Christian Commission, at that time an agent of the United States Sanitary Commission, after innumerable difficulties, about three o'clock the next morning, reached the flying hospital in the corn- field (where Sherman's wounded were still lying), with a wagon-load of battle stores, and brought immense relief to the suffering, who were waiting, without food or blankets, for the ambulances to take them to town. While General Thomas's men were scaling the ridge the Delegates' work commenced. The wounded began to fall back, supporting a disabled arm or limping on a musket, or borne on a blanket by their comrades. Taking possession of an abandoned farm-house at the foot of the ridge, we opened a hospital for those who were not able to make their way to town. A half dozen cotton bales, ripped open and spread upon the floors, made good beds and pillows for the wounded. Some of the captured rebels had corn-meal in their haversacks. This made a large kettle of 'mush, and, with the coffee and soup we had brought along, furnished an excellent supper, which was taken with special relish by the wounded rebels. One of them, a Tennessee major, whose side (struck with a shell) we had bound up, followed with an eager eye, as he lay before the fire, our operations of making beds, preparing supper, tying up wounds, and cutting out minie balls. At last, his curiosity and astonishment getting the mastery, he said, " Pardon me, gentlemen, but I would like to know your rank." When told that we were Delegates of the Christian Commission, he said, "I am not acquainted with your organization, but I like your name;" and drawing a heavy gold watch from his pocket, he placed it in the hands of a Delegate for safe-keeping. 1 1 Tlie major died suddenly a few days after, and so unexpectedly that he left no directions respecting his property. After long inquiry the agent found his mother's name and residence, in Middle Tennessee, and at the close of the war had the pleasure of putting her son's watch in her hand. WORK IN THE ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 473 The enthusiasm of the men over their victory was unbounded. The soldier forgot he was wounded while telling of the fight, and, while a ball was being cut out of an arm or leg with a Delegate's pocket-knife, would occupy the time telling how he came to be hit, or "pegged," as they call it. During the charge up the ridge, four soldiers were seen bearing back a comrade on a blanket. His story is thus told by one of the Delegates who met him : — The men halted when they saw us, and laid down their burden, asking if we would see whether the color-sergeant was badly wounded. I knelt down by him and said, "Sergeant, where did they hit you?" "Must up the ridge, sir." " I mean, sergeant, where did the ball strike you?" " Within twenty yards of the top, — almost up." " No, no, sergeant ; think of yourself for a moment; tell me where you are wounded;" and. throwing haek the blanket, I found his upper arm and shoulder mashed and mangled with a shell. Turn- ing his eye to look for the first time on his wound, the sergeant said, "That is what did it. I was hugging the standard to my blouse, and making for the top. I was almost up when that ugly shell knocked me over. If they had let me ahuie a little longer, — two minutes longer, — I should have planted the colors on the top. Almost up; almost up." We could not get the dying color- bearer's attention to himself. The fight and the flag held all his thoughts; and, while his ear was growing heavy in death, with a flushed face and look of ineffable regret, he was repeating "almost up; almost up." The brigade to which he belonged had carried the ridge, and his own regiment, rallying under the colors which had dropped from his shattered arm, were shouting the victory for which the poor sergeant had given his young life, but of which he was dying without the sight. An Ohio soldier, of Turchin's brigade, canto into the yard of the farm-house, his blood smearing bis face and clothes, and hanging in clotted masses on his long beard. A buck shot had passed through bis nose, and was lodged under the skin on the other side, close by the eye. He wanted it cut out, and was with difficulty persuaded that it was dangerous for an unskilled band to operate with a pocket- knife SO near bis eye. While we were bringing water lie sat down on the ground and pulled from his bosom a copy of Andrews's Latin Grammar. It. was covered thick with his blood. He turned to the fifth declension and began with rex, rei. He said that he was at an academy in Ohio, preparing for college, when the call came for re- cruits, and he had left, his Latin at this point. As his regiment was passing a house thai afternoon, which some bummer had plundered, CO 474 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. he found this book, and had carried it under his blouse in the fight, thinking that if he was wounded or taken prisoner he would be able to go on with his Latin. When at midnight we had given a supper to the men, and had searched the fields around with the stretcher-bearers, and seen nearly all the wounded at this flying hospital started in ambulances for town, we loaded ourselves with crackers, kettles of soup and canteens of stimulants, and went to the top of the ridge. Here we came upon one of the dreadful scenes of war. A one-story log house was filled with Union and rebel wounded. The floors of the two rooms and of the wide open hall and the piazza across the front of the house were covered with men, lying so thick as to make walking among them perilous to limb, if not to life. The night was frosty. There had been no fire or supper. There was no surgeon or nurse, and the men were lying in clothes stiff with blood from undressed wounds. The ambulances had ceased running for the night. The stretcher-bearers had gone to sleep on their stretchers. In the yard, for fifty feet around, the rebel dead were lying. They had died in the house before the ridge was carried, and had been brought out by our men to make room for the living. Underneath these floors, in a cellar lately dug, were the children and women of the house. They had remained safe from the shot and shell that had poured around them, and were sitting in the door of their cellar, smoking pipes and eating snuff, without the slightest possible concern or in- terest in the dreadful scenes around and above them. During all the afternoon and night, with their house and yard full of suffering men, many of them rebels, dying in their 1 cause, the mother and her sister and two grown-up daughters had not so much as offered to tie a bandage, or kindle a fire upon the hearth, or bring a cup of water, in- speak a gentle word. I asked if they would not assist in prepar- ing supper for the men. The mother, taking her pipe from her mouth, said, "You 'uns brought 'em all here, and you 'tins mought lake care on 'em;" and, putting back her pipe, she swung one foot over the other and smoked away in the most listless manner. "But, madam, these are, many of them, Confederate soldiers, dying away from home. Can't you do something for them?" It was the same answer, this time without removing the pipe, — "You 'tins all brought 'em here, and you 'uns mought take care on 'em." I asked for meal; WORK EN THE ARMY OF THE CfUMBEBlAND. 475 she had none; for .a kettle to make coffee; she had none; for an axe to cut tire-wood; she had none. As I passed out, a colored boy, about a dozen years old, whispered to me, "Missus done hid the axe." I went back and asked again for it; she had none, and the "nigger" lied. I said, "The men must have a fire, and if there is no axe I must take your shingles;" and suiting the action to the word, I laid hold of the roof of the piazza, and had already filled my arms, when she brought out her axe from between the beds. We spent the night dressing wounds, feeding with Coffee and soup, administering stimulants, and taking memoranda for home letters. For a mile along the top of the ridge we found soldiers grouped around their tins, discussing, till morning light, the scenes of the previous day, and telling of their missing comrades, when and how they fell. Within nearly all these groups we found wounded men, and sometimes, outside the group, the corpse of a soldier who had been removed from the fire ftfter death had ensued. By our stimu- lants and hot soup we helped these soldiers keep their comrades alive till morning. The wounded Confederates were as hearty in their gratitude for our relief as they were unanimous in the opinion that the Yankees made their soup too salt. We were able to fill out many home letters, by the memoranda gathered during the night from the lips of the dying and from the letters and diaries found on the dead. Ordinarily, unless the body had been robbed, in the in- side breast pocket of the blouse there would be a letter from friends, a photograph, a Christian Commission Testament, <>r a hymn-book, with the name and regiment and home address, or a diary without a oame; for, singularly enough, those records of daily marches and battles and camps almost invariably gave no clue to the name of the writer. Keeping it merely fur his nwn eve, the soldier had found no occasion to mention his name or regiment When the morning broke we had passed twice along the' ridge where the fiercest light occurred, and had given a midnight supper and a breakfast to the wounded in the log house. The stretcher-bearers then resumed their work 'if bringing in the wounded, and the ambulances loaded up for town. At daylight General Turehin's brigade, directly before us, half- way down the ridge, had gathered up their dead, and laid them in tie long trench, with a dirge from the baud and the farewell 476 AXNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. musketry of their comrades. They were under marching orders, with Granger's and Howard's corps, and Sherman's army, to raise the siege with which Longstreel was closely pressing Burnside al Knoxville. Before the sun was fairly up their camp-ground was silent. Passing through it, on our way back to town, we found uo signs of its previous occupation, save smouldering fires and the trench of graves set with pieces of cracker boxes, bearing the names of the dead, cut in with the pocket-knives of their comrades. This, we thought, is a day in a soldier's life more crowded with events than a whole common life at home; — to tight in the evening and carry the enemy's strongest position; divide the night between sleep and tin' stories of the day, and in the gathering of their dead; in the morning bury their comrades, and sling knapsacks for a march mole perilous than the tight had been. Ai noun we were startled by heavy cannonading from fort Wood and other forts around Chattanooga. What could it mean? It was not possilde that the enemy had rallied and were upon US again? To those who had seen the complete rout down the slope of Mission Ridge such a thought was absurd; but what could this heavy, rapid tiring mean? It was November 26, the day set apart nearly two months before, by 'President Lincoln, for National Thanksgiving, and never were thanks given by cannonading more appropriately than by the national salute of that noon. Late that night report reached our rooms of a train of wounded sixteen miles out, coming in from Hooker's fierce tight at Ringgold. We loaded the two ambulances furnished by the surgeon with faille Stores, and sent two Delegates. They found eighty men waiting on the cars, with the bridge burned before them. They were badly wounded, and had no food but hard bread. The hospital supplies ordered hail failed, and the messenger sent for stimulants had come back with empty bottles. Cur camp-kettles, coffee, soup, milk, and brandy were brought into requisition, ami when the party reached Chattanooga the surgeon in charge said, " I have at leas! >i.\ men with me that but for your coming would have died before morning." The hospital ami chapel work, after the battle id' Chattanooga, was like that succeeding Chickamauga, ex- cept thai there were more Delegates ami more stores, and WORK IX THE ARMY OF THE CXJMBEBLAND. 177 the medical department was better furnished with sup- plies for the wounded. Yet transportation for all army supplies, by the wagon road to Kelly's Landing and by the two slight-built steamers making their perilous trip on the Tennessee through the "suck" to Bridgeport, was still very difficult, and all the delicacies we could get through were in constant demand at the hospitals. A large force of Delegates labored unremittingly in this distribution and in direct religious work. Rev. Wm. A. Lawrence broke up the station at Stevenson and took charge at Chattanooga. Rev. J. F. Loyd came from Nashville, to take direction of the meetings and distri- bution of reading. "While the chapel was occupied as a hospital Mr. Loyd held the daily prayer-meeting in the Commission reading-room. In January the wounded were removed from the Baptist church, and it was re- stored as a chapel. The nightly meetings were re-opened, and at once disclosed the pleasing fact that the deep re- ligious interest with which the meetings closed on the eve of the battle was still continuing. Many interesting incidents of these meetings and the hospital work were related hv the Delegates. The evening meeting was very reluctantly omitted one night, on request from headquarters of the post commander, to allow the use of the chapel for public readings by Murdoch. The next night a battery-man stood up in the congregation and gave his experience as follows: — This is the third night 1 have heen at these meetings. The first time 1 went away saying, Religion is a good thing; J must have it; I'll come again. The next night I went away, saying to myself, You are wicked enough without being a miserable coward; why didn't you get up and say you wanted to be a Christian? That was night 478 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. before last. I didn't sleep much. In the morning I was in a hurry for night to come. I wanted to become a Christian, and thought this meeting was the only place to do it. All day long I counted the hours when I should come. To make sure of it, I got my pass from the adjutant before dinner, and came early last night to the chapel. A guard halted me at the door. He said his instructions were to admit only officers and such men as had tickets. I told him I had no ticket, but I must go into the meeting; I needed it more than any officer. He pushed me back with his bayonet, and I gave up, and called the Christians hard names for shutting me out because I was a private. Then my sins came crushing down on me again, and I went back and begged the guard to pass me in; but he cursed me, and ordered me away. I started for camp. When I was passing the railroad track I said to myself, It is Jesus you want, not the meeting; and I knelt down in a cut of the road and told Jesus just what I was going to say to my comrades if I had got into the meet- ing. I had hardly begun to tell Him when I felt relieved. When I got up from my knees I couldn't help singing. I went to camp sing- ing, and kept singing after I turned in, till the colonel's orderly hushed me up. These are good meetings, but if I could find such a meeting as that one on the railroad track, I wouldn't mind if the guard ordered me off every night. A Delegate, carrying a bucket of chicken soup through the hospital, came upon a room occupied by four or five officers. When they had eaten, thankfully and heartily, a captain said, "Why don't you Christian Commission men come in and preach to us? We need it as much as anybody." Mr. L. sat clown his bucket, sang a hymn, took a text, and preached a regular discourse to a very attentive auditory, who insisted that he should come again. About this time one of the agents in Chattanooga writes : — Yesterday I handed a soldier a book, with the title in large letters running across the page, "Where is Jesus?" He took it and said, WOKK IX THE ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 479 ''I found that out before I left home, or I would not have dared, to conic into the army." A little after, a fine smooth-faced boy from Michigan came in. I showed the same book to him. lie looked at it, his eves brimming with tears as he said, "That's what I want to know." Thousands in this army are asking this great question. Another Delegate writes: — An old soldier, lying on his cot, bent up with rheumatism, beck- d me to his side. He asked if Ulysses Grant was in Chattanooga ; and, giving me his name, instructed me to tell the General how he was, and that he should like to come and sec him as 5 1 as he could walk. I sent the name to headquarters, with the statement of the soldier. An orderly came down at once to the hospital with the compliments of the General. He would be happy to receive Private , and would send an ambulance for him when he could ride. Under this treatment the stiffened limbs grew supple, ami in two days the private reported himself at the General's quarters. He after- wards told me that the General was very glad to see him, and that they talked over old times, when they were boys and lived in the same neighborhood, and said he, "The General owned up that in wrestling I used to throw him more than half the time." At Chattanooga, after the battle of Mission Ridge, the Commission agents first met Mrs. Bickerdyke, the "mother" of Sherman's army. She had come by boat tip the Mississippi, and worked her way through to Chattanooga, to meet her "boys" in their field hospital under Mission Ridge. An observation of her work in this hospital, and afterwards in (he general field hospital under Lookout Mountain, gave such confidence in her energy, her devotion to the soldier's welfare, and her extraordinary ability to put articles intended for the soldiers directly into their hands, that during the At- lanta campaign, and at Savannah, and in the North Carolina marches, and the rendezvous at Washington, 480 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. no applicant for supplies for soldiers' relief was more heartily welcomed at any of the Commission store-rooms than Mrs. Bickerdyke. After the railroad was rebuilt to Bridgeport, the hos- pital patients that could be removed were rapidly taken back to Nashville and Louisville. The meetings in the chapel, in the prison barracks, and among the regiments around, and the distribution of the Scriptures and reli- gious papers throughout all the army, continued through the winter. The free writing-tables and free library were kejit constantly in full use. General Hooker's command Avent into winter quarters in Lookout Valley. Rev. R. D. Douglass, the agent at Bridgeport, set up a station for the valley in the Eleventh Corps. It had the usual appointments of a Commission station, — Delegates' quarters, chapel, library, writing-table, and a supply of weekly papers. In addi- tion to the usual religious services in the chapel, a Sab- bath-school was organized for soldiers and the children and the adult poor whites. General Howard's adjutant was superintendent, and the General had a class of poor gills, none of whom could read. This station became a centre of religious influence, and continued a great power for good, until the army moved on the Atlanta campaign. General Howard thus writes of it to a friend, under date of March 8, 18G4: — We have here just my beau ideal of a station. Soldiers are com- ing and going for books, papers, tracts, or conversations. The Dele- gate- constantly visit the hospitals and regiments, and are more than welcome. Last Sunday a Delegate preached at these headquarters, at 5 P. M. You never saw a more orderly and attentive audience, as they stood before arid on either side, with hats off, eagerly listening WORK IN THE ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 481 tn his words about Christ Many soldiers from the neighboring regiments came voluntarily and stood attentively in the background. I could not help praying for a special influence of the blessed Spirit among those men. Under a Inter date the General writes again : — I regard this little station of the Commission of incalculable bene- fit to this command. There seems to be complete harmony and co-operation between the Delegates and chaplains, as there ought to be between men working for a common Lord. At one time, after the battle of Chattanooga, in the long march to Knoxville and back, there was considerable sickness in the command, and much of a scorbutic character. Whereupon your agents promptly furnished us with potatoes anil other vegetables, which it was difficult, if not impossible, to obtain through any other channel at that time. At Nashville, in January, 1864, a new kind of work came upon the Delegates. A large portion of the army had re-enlisted for three years or the war, and the regi- ments were going home on their veteran furloughs. The single line of railway, North of Nashville, was insufficient to transport the hundreds and thousands of soldiers that poured in from the front on their way home. Maxwell Barracks were thronged from bottom to top. Two churches and No. 14 Hospital were taken for barracks, and, with all the yard around, were kept full, week after week, by soldiers coming and departing. Before the current homeward had ceased, a stream of veterans returning from their furloughs set in. These were often obliged to wait their turn for transportation to the front. While in the city they were kept under guard in their quarters. These buildings, always full, were open to the Commission night and day, and the men were eager for preaching and Testaments and reli- ct 482 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. gious reading. In two regiments thus tarrying, quar- tered in the Baptist church for a few days, a deep revival interest began. Three and four meetings a day were held among them, and many soldiers went home to surprise praying friends with the story of their con- version. These homeward-bound men were found more thoughtful than hail been anticipated. In many in- stances the thought of home so near at hand had recalled the fair promises of two years before, and broken vows came to stare them in the face. One young soldier, for whom a furlough had been procured at his request, declined to use it, asking that it might be postponed a month. At the end of two weeks he came to say that he was ready for his furlough, and, when pressed to give a reason for his strange delay, replied, "I promised my mother that I would be a Christian in the army. I have neglected it up to this time, and I could not go home until I could answer my mother's first question." With the veterans returning from their furlough, bound for the front and for what all knew must be a protracted and bloody campaign, the meetings and per- sonal interviews were very impressive. In the daily prayer-meeting, now removed from the Presbyterian church to McKendree Chapel, and in the nightly prayer- meetings at Maxwell Barracks, the soldiers gave their " experience," — the story of their purposes and' fears, of their praying friends, their struggle and promises at parting with wife and children, a mother's prayer and blessing; of their conflict in Christian life, with its triumph or failure; of God's protecting care, made won- derful in the memory of so many fallen comrades ; of their estimate of the three years more of campaigning WORK IX Till'. Alt MY OF THE CUMBER] \M>. 188 before them, its toil and risk now fully understood; and of the possibility of returning no more. Every meet- ing was one of greeting and farewell by those constantly succeeding regiments, and its happy influence was car- ried directly to the front and appeared afterwards in the revivals at Ringgold and Cleveland. In March, Mrs. Harris, of the Philadelphia Ladies' Aid Society,' invited the Commission to occupy the Large residence on Spruce street, which had been as- signed to her by the Secretary of War. The comforts and conveniences of the Delegates' Home in Nashville were much enlarged by this change, ami Mrs. Smith, the wife of the Genera] Field A.gent, took the charge of the large establishment. It served as the home I'm- all the Delegates on duty, and for the ladies in the diet- kitchen service in Nashville. It was also a tarrvin-- place for Delegates ami ladies passing to and from the front, and became a frequent resorl for mothers ami sisters who had entered army lines to relieve or bury friends. The family altar for morning and evening worship, like all the Commission work, had its pecu- liarity. From twenty to fifty Delegates, representing as many towns and all the evangelical denominations, most of them clergymen, knelt at the altar, — each one bring- ing a heart full of prayer for the special cases of suffer- ing or religious interest he had met. Every faculty of sympathy was at its greatest tension. Not unfrequently was the voice of prayer and song interrupted by the -oli of a mother or father present, who had come to find a dear one past recovery or already lmried. Such scenes a- these, — with the solemn and joyous interchange of ' See p. Tl. 484 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. thought among Christians of different names; the re- hearsals of wonderful experiences in camp and hospital ; the pale-faced boys tottering up from the hospitals, and making constant applications for personal relief out of Mrs. Smith's large store-room, which came to be famous for its numberless little comforts, such as only a home and a mother's care afford ; and one other scene, — a funeral service in these Christian Commission parlors, with the Delegates for mourners, when this mother and the father closed the coffin lid upon the face of their little boy of four years, and committed his casket to the express company, to be carried home for burial by his Sabbath-school class, in Massachusetts; and yet one other, — when, during the battle of Nashville, young Kimball, from Boston, was finishing his earthly com- mission, while most of his brother Delegates were on the field, ministering to the hundreds of other American youths, who were falling under the cannon that shook the windows of his dying chamber; — such scenes have made one house in Nashville immortal in the memory of thousands of soldiers and hundreds of Christian laborers. By the movements resulting from the victory at ( Ibattanooga and the relief of Knoxville, the armies of the Tennessee and the Ohio were brought within the field of the Christian Commission for the Army of the Cumberland. Though thus greatly enlarged, the Com- mission work for 1864, in its main features, was not changed from that of the year previous. The appeals from this enlarged field to friends at home, endorsed by the constantly returning Delegates, awoke new interest in the soldier's behalf through the Middle Western WORK IN Till: AKMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. t85 States, ami immense supplies began to pour in from the Cincinnati and Pittsburg offices. Buffalo and India- napolis also largely increased their offerings for the soldiers. At the same time the variety and supply of reading from the Central Office was more than doubled. During the year three hundred Delegates reported for service, mostly from Western Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana. Their labors were directed by seven perma- nent agents, who had charge of stations or followed with the army in the summer campaign. Through the do- nations of the American Bible Society, Testaments and portions of Scripture were again furnished to all in the entire army who had need of them; and to many, who lost their knapsacks in battle, this distribution was twice or three times repeated during the year. At the request of Major-General Thomas, the Com- mission adopted the plan inaugurated by Chaplain J. 0. Thomas, of supplying the army with all the better class of magazine literature. The publishers of the Eclectic, Atlantic, Harpers', the Continental, and the United States Service Magazines, sold their periodicals, for this purpose, at half price. Adams Express Company gave free freight, and thus thirty-five thousand standard magazines were furnished, at half their price in New York, to soldiers and officers, who would otherwise have satiated their appetite for reading on the trash of novelettes, sold so largely and at such exorbitant rates through all the camps. Chaplain Thomas's plan for procuring hospital libraries was also adopted. These books, from the Chaplain's carefully selected catalogue, neatly cased al government expense, and put in charge of librarians appointed by the surgeons, brought a wider 1S<) AXXAI.S OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. range and higher character of literature within the reach of men suffering from the tedium of hospital life. The fundamental idea of the Commission, to avoid all possible incumbrance to military operations, and yet give personal help and care to men in any trouble, and espe- cially to keep open the channel of communication be- tween the soldier and his home, was more fully developed during the year. The stations became not only a depot for reading and clothing and hospital delicacies, hut a kind of supply depots for many little articles, which. though quite essential to the comfort of the men. are rarely tit be found in army lines, and then at sutlers' prices. The thousands on thousands of housewives or "comfort- bags," as the soldiers called them, were received with great eagerness. Each one with its little package of thread, needles, buttons, soap, pins, pens, and often con- taining a tract or letter, supplied as many real wants of the soldier as it contained packages. These hags could never he kept in supply, and when they failed the arti- cles were given out from packages in bulk, — making as good a substitute as possible for the home collection. The files of State and County papers, from all sections of the country, in the free reading-room, were eagerly consulted for the local home news. These placards were hung out at the door and around the wall: SOLDIERS' FREE WRITING-TABLE. PAPERS AND ENVELOPES FREE. ('t)ME IN AND SEND WORD HOME; THEY WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU. SIT DOWN AND SEND A FEW WORDS HOME. IF YOU HAVE NO POSTAGE STAMPS, LEAVE YOUR LETTER IX Till: BOX | WE WILL STAMP AND MAIL IT. WORK 1\ THE ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 187 From these tables more than one hundred thousand Letters were post-paid and mailed during the year isci.. By a special acl of Congress, postage on a soldier's letter tnighl be collected on delivery. But the men seemed to dislike to impose tins charge upon friends al home, and resorted to expedients to keep themselves in supply of postage stamps. This was no easy matter at the front. Loss of knapsack, a heavy rain, or the perspiration of a day's march would make a new supply necessary, and for this supply there was no provision. The agenl at Nashville often sent out a thousand dollars per week in stamps, to be furnished to soldiers in such quantities as they wished to hay. These stamps were always sold at government rates, giving the soldiers the advantage when it was impracticable to make the exact change. In hos- pitals and camps the Delegates distributed paper and envelopes tor a million and a half of letters hound home- ward, offering them freely to any man who desired or would agree to write to his friends. 1 By a reasonable estimate, certainly one-half and probably two-thirds of the letters written on the Commission paper would not have Been written at all hut for the facilities thus offered. On marches, and after hattles.it was the constant en- deavor to gather up the letters of soldiers and take them to the firsi mail. Iii all their ministrations the Dele- gate- were specially enjoined to ask permission of sick and wounded men to write to their friends at home, and this as nuudi for the sake of friends as for the soldier. In time of battle they were to spare no pains to give im- mediate and accurate information of the wounded and 1 The writing-paper ami envelopes distributed among the soldiers by the Commission were stamped with appropriate and attractive devices and mottoes. 488 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. dead to those who waited for tidings; and to urge sol- diers who had come out unharmed to relieve their friends by rilling on the sjiot the sheet of paper offered them. During the two days' lighting before Nashville, and in the ministrations of the four succeeding days with the sick and wounded reca])tured at Franklin, the Delegates of the Nashville station wrote one thousand letters as extra duty, after laboring from eight to sixteen hours a day with the suffering and dying. The acknowledg- ments to these letters that came from relieved or broken hearts all over the Northwest, told how this kind of effort was appreciated and what it was worth, both to the soldier and his home. In March of this year the Executive Committee decided to commission and support ladies for the work of super- intending diet kitchens in the general hospitals of the Western armies, according to the plan proposed by Mrs. Wittenmyer. Mrs. W. was appointed manager of this department of labor. A full account of the method of working is given elsewhere. The ladies were introduced gradually into the large hospitals in Louisville, Nash- ville and Chattanooga, as the surgeons in charge came to see the feasibility and worth of the plan. What Mr. Ewing says of their work in this army, for 180-3. will equally apply to the whole period of their service: — The Christian Commission ladies, who have labored in fifteen diet kitchens, have accomplished a large work for the soldiers, of which no record will be made except in the hearts of suffering men, who received from their hands such ministration as only those who repre- sented mother and sister could give. In addition to superintending the preparation of suitable dishes for the sick, these ladies have done the work of Delegates, in the distribution of home gifts, writing let- ters, reading to the convalescents, and in all things declaring Jesus. WORK IX THE ARMY OF THE CUMBEBLAITD. 489 Mr. T. R. Ewing, of Pennsylvania, assisted by Deacon Charles Crosby, of Massachusetts, assumed the charge of the work in Nashville and the forwarding of supplies to the front. Mr. H. C. Houghton kept up the Mur- freesboro' station, until May, with all the appliances of Christian Commission work, — reading and writing- rooms, daily prayer-meetings and hospital relief. Hunts- ville station was superintended by Rev. H. D. Lathrop, until the movement on Atlanta brought him to the charge of the work in Chattanooga. This station was then discontinued for a few months, until our forces, falling hack from Atlanta, in November, gathered around Huntsville and made it again an important point for ( Jommission work. When Rev. R. D. Douglass followed the Eleventh Corps into Lookout Valley, the superin- tendence of the Bridgeport station was given to Rev. X. B. ( Vitchfield, until his appointment to the chaplaincy of the Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, when Sergeant dough, a disabled Ohio soldier, took the Na- tion and held it until the close of the war. The mustering of his hosts by General Sherman, for advance into Georgia, gave the work a new impulse in April. At Ringgold and Cleveland a remarkable reli- gious revival began among the veteran troops, who knew very well what it meant to be at the front, waiting marching orders, with the enemy lying in full force before them. They were the heroes of Chickamauga and Mission Ridge and Lookout Mountain. Very many of them had promised God, in the thick of the tight, to give their life to Him, if He would bring them safely out. And now God was reminding them of promises unkept. 62 490 AXXALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. At Ringgold the crowded church every night, the full morning meetings for inquirers of the way of life, the prayer-meetings established in the soldiers' huts and even out on the picket-post, testify to such grace and power of God as are rarely exhibited. A Kentucky soldier, one of the most ungodly men in his regiment, had spent the night in prayer and found no relief. In the morning he met his chaplain on his horse, and asked him to pray for him. The chaplain promised, hut said the man, "I mean now." " What, here in the road ? " " Yes, here, chaplain, now." They knelt and grayed, and others who were passing came and knelt, till there were more than two or three agreeing in the petition that the sinful one should he forgiven, and the answer came. The soldier went down to his tent-house, and carried the word of life to his comrades. They could not resist the claims of religion, when pressed upon them so earnestly and persistently by their fellow-soldier. He told of his trials with his profane tent-mates, and of the agreement he had made, that, if they persisted in calling in their comrades for cards, he should have the tent every other night for a prayer-meeting. The result was, the prayer-meeting supplanted the cards altogether, and all in the tent and many men in the company came with the new r disciple to his Master. Mr. Reynolds, Delegate from Peoria, Ilk, writes of this revival at Ringgold : — 'fcift 1 - Words arc inadequate to describe the glorious work of grace. We found about ten thousand troops encamped here and but three chap- lains. In our labors with these chaplains, we experienced in full the sweetness of the truth, "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity." "We made arrangements WOKE IX THE AH.MY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 491 for holding two daily meetings, at one and seven o'clock, p.m. At the night meeting the church was crowded to overflowing, — not a foot nf standing-room unoccupied. The doors and windows were filled, and the crowds extended out into the street, straining their e'ars to catch the words of Jesus. Sometimes hundreds of persons would go away unable to get within hearing distance. Day alter day the interest deepened, and large numbers came tin-ward nightly Cor prayer. Scores of men long hardened in sin cried out, " What shall we do?" A number of the converts hail never been baptized, ami as they expressed a desire to remember this command of Christ, we invited all candidates for baptism to meet at the church on Sab- bath afternoon, April It). Forty-four presented themselves. In the number several denominations woe represented, and were of course allowed to select the mode of baptism they perferred. Twenty-four chose immersion, eighteen sprinkling, and two pouring. We marched in solemn procession to the tune and hymn, There is a fountain filled with 1>1 1. down to the Chickamauga creek. The soldiers stood on the banks, joining hands and continuing the hymn, while their comrades went down into the water, — some for immersion, some for sprinkling, and others for pouring, but all for baptism in the name of the Father, and of the Sou, and of the Holy Ghost. After administering the ordinance of baptism, we returned to the church, singing, Jesus, I my cress have taken, and then sat down, about four hundred in number, at the table of our common Lord. Commissary bread, currant wine, tin plates, and tin cups, — these were the circumstances of the Lord's supper in the army; hut they did not keep the Master from the feast of love, nor hinder the baptism of the Spirit upon these men, whom God was making ready for four months of march and battle. It was a blessed communion, — to many of the soldiers the first they had enjoyed for two years, and to many men the hist, until that day when they shall "drink it new in the Father's kingdom." The following Sabbath fortv-eight were hapti/.ed, — twenty-seven by immersion, an. I twenty- one by sprinkling : and on the Sabbath succeeding this, the ordinance was administered to fifty-seven more, and four hundred hew converts sat down at the communion table. 492 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Iii the re-organization of the army in March, the command of the Fourth Corps was given to Major- Genera] Howard. In April, Rev. Mr. Loydtook charge of the work of the Commission in this corps, while it was lying at Cleveland, preparing for the Georgia cam- paign. We give the following extracts from Mr. Loyd's report of the work at Cleveland: — At our first interview General Howard gave us a cordial welcome, and assured us of his co-operation. He dispensed with the usual religious services al his headquarters, and ordered the churches in the town cleansed and opened for divine service. The Illinois brethren, — M ly, Reynolds, Bliss, and Nichols, — were a strong and timely re-inforcement. We beld brief services with the regiments during the day, and invited the soldiers to the night meetings in the churches. These meetings were soon filled to overflowing, and the Divine approval was manifested in awakenings and conversions. Genera] Howard took a class of little girls in our Sabbath-school, ami an active part in our night meetings,— praying for penitents, and s etimes addressing the congregation with ureal power. His last address, Sabbath evening, May 1, will long lie remembered. The corps was under marching orders, and the General spoke out of a full heart, familiar with the experience jusl before every man iii thai congregation. When he closed, eighty-three came forward, desiring prayers, and a goodly number, before the meeting closed, enured into covenant with their Heavenly Father. On Monday ni'dit, with the marching orders still pending, the three churches were crowded for another farewell meeting. In one of them, Colonel Buckner, of the Seventy-ninth Illinois, preached with unusual power. 1 The corps moved on Tuesday. Wednesday morning, being duly provided with canteen, blanket, gum-coat, shelter-tent, and haversack, with five days' rations, Mr. Tucker and myself set OUl on foot to follow the army. Twenty-two miles brought us up with the rear of 1 One week from this Monday night, Mr. L., writing of die battle el' Rocky- face, says, " Colonel Buckner has been brought in, severely wounded, lie is calm unit full of the peace of the gospel lie so much loves to preach." Wol'K l.\ THE At:. MY OF THE CUMBERLAND. t93 the corpa. Sticking one end of a rail in the fork of an apple tree, and putting a board under the other, we pitched our tent over ii, Bpread our blankets, held our evening devotion, and slept soundly lill four o'clock in the morning. Breakfast over, we held our morn- ing devotions in Captain Bridge's battery, some twenty or thirty of his me iting with us. < >n Saturday afterni we wenl into camp at Tunnel Hill, ami I preached to a large congregation in the even- ing. Neither the march, nor the excitement of approaching battle, had dissipated the religious feeling awakened at Cleveland. The chaplain of the Twenty-first Kentucky reports nightly meetings in his regiment, and the revival .-till going on with increased power. On the Sabbath, as we wire singing the Doxology at the close of a brigade service, the order to break camp came, and in half an hour we were again on the march. We halted at the fool of Rocky face Ridge, and soon were engaged with the wounded, whom we aecom panied back to the division hospital at Tunnel Bill. ( )n Thursday night, Banked out of Buzzard's Roost, Johnston li-ll slowly hack ti> Resaca, his rear guard fighting us from behind hushes ami breastworks ill' rails at every step. At mum mi Satur- day, the L 5th, Genera] Sherman was before Resaca, ami the battle commenced. In the repeated charges up those steeps many men were killed ami i iy more frightfuly mangled. During that day ami the next we were busy with fresh wounds. On Monday Resaca was niirs by evacuation, ami so rapid and effective was the work of the construction corps that the railroad in Resaca was in running order thai evening, ami we helped load one hundred ami twenty Wounded men, ami adjust them as will as we could on the straw in the box oar-, tor their long, painful ride in Chattai a Rev. Mr. Lathrop, with a re-inforcemenl of Delegates, reached us the next day. We took posses-ion of a douhle log-house, and com- menced operations. With some captured sacks of rice and corn- meal, we tried our skill in boiling rice and making mush. Plates and dishes we had none, but tin- soldiers held out their tin-CUps, and We filled them from the kettles, with a ladle carved for the occasion. In a few days, stores were sent from Chattai ga, better rooms Becured, and our rude arrangements grew into a regular feeding station for the trains of WOUnded, which tin- more than two months were coming hack from Kingston, Kenesaw, Ataworth, Marietta, ami 4'.M ANNUS OF Till: CHRISTIAN COMMISSION". Atlanta. We made a nick of railroad iron, long enough to hold fifteen camp kettles, underneath which we built our fires. With these full of coffee, and a barrel, and sometimes two barrels, provided in advance, on the telegram of the surgeon, we were ready for the trains. The commissary furnished coffee, sugar, and bard bread. We bought soft bread, and added milk and soda crackers. A.s soon as the coffee was served, our large coffee-boilers became watetp-pots, and we went from ear to ear. filling canteens with cold water. No one hut a wounded soldier, unable to help himself, and doomed to ride from one to three days in a freight car, is competent to say what such a coffee station is worth. A count of the train- for one week gives over eighteen hundred sick and wounded men thus cared for. Feeding the men was net the whole of our work. On one occasion some thirty or forty wounded, who had been brought in and laid on the floor of a frame building, which served as a kind of transfer hospital, were found without surgeon, steward or nurse. We went immediately, with the agents of the United States Sanitary Com- mission, to their relief. Seme were screaming, some groaning, and others, with parched lips, cried, "Water! water!" Their wounds were inflamed under the dry, tight bandages. Our first work was to pour water on the bandages, then give water and coffee, and dress the wound-. Seen every complaint was hushed ; we offered our evening prayer, and by midnight nearly all were sleeping. We visited the field hospital daily. The surgeon in charge re- quested US to hold religious services at seme convenient point, where the convalescents could attend, and not in the hospital tents. But iii one ward great desire for preaching was expressed, by those un- able to leave their cots. "Chaplain, won't you preach for us?'' was the frequent question. " An', chaplain," said an Irishman, "Won't you plase praich for us? We want to hear a wee bit of civilization once more." I referred the case to the surgeon. He said every man in the tent must be consulted; if one objected, the services must net he held. I returned and asked every man. One hesitated, — said talking hurt him. Others said. " Let's have it; hut make it short." I preached, — the entire service lasting twenty minutes. I asked the young man if it hurt him. "Oh, no:" -aid he, "it did me good." The surgeon seemed pleased with the experi- ment and afforded every facility tor benefiting his patients. WORK IN" THE ARM'S OF THE CUMBERLAND. 195 Iii A.ugust, Mr. Loyd went to Rome, Ga., seventeen miles Wes1 of Kingston, to open ;i Christian Commission station for more than two thousand sick and wounded, belonging to the Army of the Tennessee. While Mr. Loyd was following the Fourth Corps in its marchings and fightings; and feeding the wounded at Resaca, other agents and 1 )elegates of t he ( Commission were doing similar work at Tunnel Hill and Dalton, and Rev. W. A. Lawrence and Arthur Lawrence and .). D. W. French were on their march and mission with the Twentieth Corps, and Rev. II. McLeod with the Twenty-third Corps. It must be borne in mind that the Commission bad no teams, nor even saddle-horses, for the Delegates in this army. They marched with the men or the ambulance trains, carrying their baggage and sleeping in the open field; and in a battle did whal could be done, with will- ing hands and such supplies of stimulants, bandages, etc., as they could carry in their haversacks or could gel permission to load upon the ambulances. The agents of the Commission at Chattanooga, the base of supplies, exerted every effort to send forward stores; and as fast as the construction corps repaired the railroad a relief station was opened at the terminus, with quarters for Delegates and stores for distribution. The sick of the army and the wounded, brought in from the battles and daily skirmishes, were always found collected at these termini of the newly-repaired roads, and afforded a fine field for the personal work of the Delegates, in distribut- ing supplies, dressing wounds, writing letters, and minis- tering religious consolation to the weak and dying. Thus at Kingston, Allatoona, Acworth, Big Shanty, 49G ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Marietta, and Turing's, the Commission was able, with the agents and Delegates following as best they could in the different corps, and with the supplies of stores and re-inforcement of Delegates brought up by the first train from Chattanooga, to do an important relief work. In all this campaign the eo-operation of the United States Sanitary Commission was most hearty and helpful. During the first two weeks, while their supplies were largely in excess of those of the Christian Commission, the Delegates were allowed to distribute freely from their stores. At the opening of this campaign it became exceed- ingly difficult to procure passes for the Delegates to the front. General Sherman's disgust for all civilians in the army is well known. His positive order to pass no civilian beyond Nashville seemed for a time likely to shut off all Delegates, and to reduce our working force to the corps agents marching with the army. So diffi- cult a matter did the General find it to get his provost officers to appreciate the problem of transportation, that for a while he left them no discretion in the matter of passes. Civilians could not go to the front, except over his own signature. A request to pass two Delegates to ( !hattanooga came back with a characteristic endorse- ment : — ( lertainly not. There is more need of gunpowder and oats than any moral or religious instruction. Every regiment at the front has a chaplain. 1 W. T. SHEEMAN. 1 The army consisted at this time of not less than one hundred and fifty (150) regiments and forty (40) batteries; and in the whole army, with the regiments ;it the front and in the hospitals along the line to the rear, as far as Louisville, the number of chaplains did not exceed eighty (80), of whom not one-half were at the front. WORK IX THE ARMV OF THE CUMBERLAND. 49.7 General Sherman has since officially declared his high appreciation of the work of the Commission, and thai his restrictions upon it ai this time were from sheer necessity.' Ii may certainly be said that General Sher- man's restrictions were rigidly impartial, and bore with equal weight upon every benevolent society and extra- governmental agency. Soon alter the campaign opened this positive prohibition of passes was so modified as to allow Delegates to go forward, "whenever by requisition of a medical officer at the front they were shown to be needed for the distribution of hospital stores." Under this modification we had no further difficulty during the movement against Atlanta, in sending either Delegates or stores, except what was inevitable over so long a track of railroad, — the only line of supply for one hundred thousand fighting men, and constantly liable to be torn up by guerrillas. After the emergency of the Atlanta campaign was over, and General Thomas was left in command at Nashville, every possible facility for moving at will in the army was afforded to Delegates and agents. The provost guard recognized the Christian Commission badge as a pass, and seldom challenged the Delegates. 2 General Sherman reached Kingston on Thursday, the 1 See p. 238. - An incident occurred at Naahville, illustrating tin- soldiers' estimate of t lie extraordinary privileges due the Commission. A German guard of a freight train was instructed not to allow any person to get upon the train or come near the ears. One of the ears was tilled with Commission stores, and two Dele- gates were to accompany them, in the same ear, for protection. The lieutenant of the guar. I. -i i llclegatcs pas- into the car unchallenged, Ordered the soldier before him, and asked, "What are your instructions?" "To lei no pody g vale." " Well, what are those two men doing in that car?" "Oh, (ley is de Christian Commission; — she go chery vare." 63 498 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. 19th of May. Taking headquarters in town, and send- ing his army into camp along the stream and in the woods beyond, he waited for his construction train and army supplies. The Commission agent and Delegates had walked from Resaca, and established themselves in a large hotel near the depot. In twenty-four hours every room in the house w r as filled with the sick, who had dropped out of ranks on the march, with the sur- geon's permit to go to hospital, or were brought in ambulances, to wait transportation by cars to Chat- tanooga. To nurse and feed these sick, at first from the stores brought through in the ambulances, and after- wards from the large supplies furnished by the Western Sanitary Commission, and to load them upon the box- cars, and fit them out with water and rations for their ride to Chattanooga, fully occupied the entire time and strength of our force until the Monday following. General Sherman then abandoned Kingston, and, with full commissary and quartermaster trains, swung off to the right, in order to flank Johnston out of the Alia- toona Mountains. An agent of the Commission gives the following sketch of his Sabbath's work at Kingston: — When we found that the army was to be at rest over the Sabbath, appointments were made in the different brigades for two or three services to each preaching Delegate. I had an appointment in the Baptist church in the morning, and at General Howard's headquar- ters, in the woods, in the afternoon. The church had not been cleaned since its occupation as a rebel hospital. The sexton, who agreed to put the house in order on Saturday afternoon, failed me, and only an hour before the time for service I discovered that another man, engaged and paid for doing the same work on Sabbath morning, had served me in the same way. It was too late now to look for help. WORK IX THE ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 199 I took off my ministerial rout, and for one hour, with the mercury u,t ninety degrees, worked with might and main. When I had swepi out tit*- straw, cleared the rubbish from the pulpit, thrown the bunks out the window, pitched the old seats down from the loft, arranged them in order on the floor, and dusted the whole house over twice, ii was time for service. I sprang up into the belfry (the rope bad been '■ut away I, and, with some pretty vigorous strokes by the bell tongue, told the people around that the hour for worship had arrived. Drop- ping down again, through the scuttle upon the vestibule fl a treacherous nail carried away an important part of one leg of ray pantaloons. It was my only suit at the front, and while I was j - dering how 1 should present myself before the congregation, a coi poral and two bayonets from General Sherman's headquarters, not twenty yard- away, came to help me in the decision. " Did you ring the bell?" " I did." "I am ordered to arrest you." '• For what '.'" " To bring you to General Sherman's headquarters." "But, Corpo- ral, I can't sec the General in this plight. I am an agent of tin Christian Commission, and am to preach here this morning, and was ringing the bell for service. If you will tell the General how it is, il will be all right." "That's not the order, sir." "Well, Corporal, send a guard with me to my quarters, till I can wash up and pin together this rent." "That's not the order, .sir; — fall in." Without hat or coat, ainl with gaping wardrobe, preceded by the corporal ami followed by the bayonets, I called at headquarters. General Corse, chief of staff, standing by the side of General Sherman, received me. Without waiting for charges or questions, 1 said, "General, I belong to the Christian Commission. We arc to have service in the church across the way, and I was ringing the bell." " Is this Sunday'.' Some mischievous soldiers had alarmed the people by ringing the bell, and an order was issued against it; but we were not aware this was Sun- day. There is no harm done. At what hour is the service'/" — and. bowing me out, he discharged my guard. As 1 entered, General Sherman was drumming with thumb and finger on the window-sill. and when the corporal announced his prisoner, the General command- ing fixed his colli gray eve on me I'm- a moment, motioned to his chief lo attend to the case, ami, without moving a muscle of hi- face, resumed his drumming and his Sabbath problem, — how to flank Johnston out of the Allatoona Mountains. 500 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. This extra duty as sexton, ami obedience to the corporal's "order," made it necessary to procure a pulpit substitute for the morning. The Delegate who preached reported an interested congregation, and among them representatives from headquarters. In the afternoon I rode over to the Fourth Corps, four miles away. General Howard had notified the regiments around of the service. Two .it' his division commanders were present, and Brigadier-General Harker, whose promotion was so recent that the star had not yet supplanted the eagle mi his shoulder. This was the last Sabbath service which this manly, modest, gallant officer attended. Five weeks later, in the charge at Kenesaw Mountain, he was shot dead. That Sabbath in the woods I shall never forget; — the earnest atten- tion of all to the theme, — "The safety <f Christian trust and devotion and triumph. Speaking of the high calling of chaplains, and the importance that they should always be with their regiments at the front, he told us of his visit to Newton s division hospital the night after the battle of Kesaca, where he found a fair-faced boy who could not live till morning. He knelt down on his blanket and asked if there was anything he wanted done for him. "Yes." said the boy, "I want somebody to tell me how to find the Saviour." "I never felt my ignorance so much before," said the General. " Here was a mind ready now to hear and act on the truth What if I should give him wrong directions? How I wished I had a minister's training." And then he told us what directions he gave, and of the prayer, and of the boy's smile and peace, — appealing now to me and then to his generals, if it was not right and beautiful : and so, under the pressure unconsciously applied by their superior officer, WORK IX THE AII.MY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 501 witli lips all unused to such confession, they :u-klio as to gain the unqualified commendation of Dr. ( !ox, the surgeon in charge. 1 >r. Wright, surgeon of tin' post, seeing their work, signed a requisition by telegraph for twenty more Delegates to be passed at Nashville. When most of the patients at Kingston had been removed to the rear, and a general hospital established further on, the Delegates moved forward to join those who had marched with the army. An agent, returning a tew days after, writes an account of a day's work with the few men who remained at Kingston : — During the move on Atlanta I was coming back from the front, when I learned that the Delegates had left Kingston, and that there was no chaplain in either of the two hospitals. It was two weeks after the hard fight on the right by the fourth and Twentieth corps, and I knew it must he the time fir many of the wounded to die ; 502 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. and they must not die 'alone. I determined to forego business at Chattanooga, and stop over. There were many low cases. Four or five, I was sure, would not live twenty-four hours. One was too far gone to converse. Nothing could be done but to write to his little daughter, the only surviving member of his family, as one of his comrades said. Another could speak only by nods and the pressure of the hand. By this means of communication I learned that he was peacefully waiting to die. As I prayed at his cot his "amen" was given by the pressure on my hand, and when the petition rose for wife and children the responses came thick and fervent. He slept in the night, and never woke. Another was seeking the Saviour, and ventured to trust before he died. Another, an Indiana soldier, sent for me in the night. He was dying, — a fair-faced boy of eighteen years. His leg had been cut lin •_;• fingers; "good-bye; I wish I could sec you, but I am going to die in Georgia." In tears and sobbing he pressed the ambrotype to his lips ; — "Good-bye; good-bye." He takes the next. " Sister, dear sister ; don't fret for nil': I'll sec you again; only be faithful; good-bye, dear sister, g l-bye ;" and he prints on the glass his dying kiss. The next our he looks at with unutterable longing. His lips quiver, and his whole frame shakes. He calls no name. He kisses it over and over, ami holds it under his hand on his breast. I put my mouth close to his oar and whispered, "This is hard." "Yes, it is hard; I would like to go home ; but I am content." "You are dying now, before you are twenty years old. Are you not sorry you enlisted?" He looked at me steadily. His sobbing ceased, and with a firm, deliberate tone, he said, " Not a bit; I was glad when T enlisted, and I am glad now. I am willing to die for my country." That midnight seine cannot be described. The patients in the ward, that could walk, gathering round; others in their beds, rising up on elbow; the nurses standing about, — one of them holding, at the head of the cot, the single candle of the ward ; the prayer, the hymn, the last mes- sage, the good-bye, the family leave-takings, anil the consecration unto death on the altar of country ; — they fill a blessed page in my memory, but I cannot transfer it to you. When the army swung in to the left, from the flank movement on Dallas, and again struck the railroad at Acworth, Allatoona and Big Shanty hospitals were opened, and the work of Kingston and Resaca was re- peated. There was rest for a few days, and then came tin' frightful struggle upon Johnston's line, stretching across Pine and Lost and Kenesaw Mountains. It ended in a general charge on Kenesaw, and the bloody repulse which filled up the hospitals at Big Shanty and Acworth. A resort once more to the favorite move- ment by the flank opened Marietta to our forces. On the 13th of July, General Sherman rode through the town, before nine o'clock in the morning. Messrs. 504 ANNALS OF THK I'M KISTIAX COMMISSION. Lawrence and Critchfield, with u team of Georgia wagons purchased at Axworth, pushed into Marietta, and welcomed the amhulance train with a coffee station in full running order, — greatly to the surprise of the surseon, who asked it' tin- Christian Commission had been holding Marietta during the war. At this point; and in the general hospital at Vinings, where the sick and wounded from the army before Atlanta were gathered, to wait their turn in the hospital train to Chattanooga, the Commission found a large field for its labors. After the capture of Atlanta, Chaplain Critch- field, of the Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers; detailed to the service of the Commission, opened a Delegates' home, and rooms for stores and for reading and writing, and obtained the use of the largest church in the city for a chapel. The soldiers came eagerly to the meetings, and the spirit manifested led to the ex- pectation of a great religious work with the army. But Hood's movement North and Sherman's South caused the abandonment of Atlanta and of all the stations on the line to Chattanooga. Two agents of the Commis- sion, Rev. W'm. A. Lawrence and Arthur Lawrence, of Boston, followed the army in the "Great March" to the sea, in order to he ready to receive the Delegates and stores that should be sent to meet them, at whatever point the army might touch tin 1 coast. The following- extracts are from Rev. Mr. Lawrence's account of this expedition, as given under date of Savannah, Georgia, January I ">. L865 : — Our mission in iliis army is over. I leave tin- New York to- morrow; and now 1 ought to give yon some slight sketch, at least, of our work since we left Atlanta. I almost wish we could forget WORK IX Till: AIIMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 505 the ( ' mission and its duties for a moment, that I might describe a few of the striking features of this wonderful campaign. The long line of fire came pouring down on vis at Atlanta, like a column of volcanic lava, as Sherman rolled up the railroad witb him, and as the rear-guard came down from the Etowah. Then the awful burn- ing of Atlanta, — the long lines of blue moving silently away from the burning city ami plunging into the unknown forests, — wl aid tell whither? Then the incidents of the campaign, the crossing of swamps and rivers, the building of bridges and corduroy mails, the taking of Milledgeville, the burning of houses and depots and rail- roads and bridges and villages and everything thai would burn, the •• foraging liberally on the country," the investment of Savannah, the taking of Fori McAllister, the arrival of supplies, the evacua- tion of tli" city, our triumphal entry and general jubilee, — all these would interest you much; but I have to ask you, instead, to follow the fortunes of your two agents, Arthur Lawrence and myself, as we take up the line of march with the army, — Arthur in the right wing, ( teneral Howard's, and I in the left, ( uncial Slocum's. We expected that a march of fifteen miles a day, with the delay and labor connected with three meals and camping at night, would take all our time on the inarch, and it very nearly did it. Still there were times when we could remind ourselves of our work, by carrying a poor, tired fellow's gun or knapsack when the ambulances were full. Often, far too often, the ambulance, moving on the same as ever, became -huh' poor fellow's death-bed, and at night his grave was dug beside the road', and marked by a hoard roughly inscribed with the soldier's name and regiment, and the poor fellow left to hi- res! in the heart of Rebeldom. All we could do was to take a lull memorandum, to send to his friends at home as soon as we reached Savannah. Moving on in this way from day to day, finding a rich, fertile country before us, and leaving what the boys called a "Mack streak," thirty to fifty miles in width, behind us, we arrived before Savannah .hi the llth of December. On the 13th Fort McAllister was taken (where one of us had the pleasure of administering a little of the rebel commandant's wine to one of his wounded men. neglected by his own surgeon), and communication was open. On the 21st of December we entered Savannah. The provost fit 506 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. marshal told me to select any rooms I pleased in the city, and he would assign them. I took a line store on Bay street, near the exchange and post office, about a hundred feet by forty, good ware- room in cellar and two rooms over head, very suitable for reading- room and library or office, — just such quarters and in just the loca- tion we wanted, and they were promptly assigned to us. Very soon supplies began to arrive. We fitted up our room with fifty writing- desks, and from two to three hundred letters were written daily, and those which had no stamp (about two-thirds of the whole) we stamped aud forwarded. It was surprising to see the eagerness and thankfulness with which our supplies were received. Men who had been without any kind of reading for almost two mouths were hungry for sonic solid and substantial food for thought, and those who knew their families had been in an agony of suspense in regard to their safety all through the campaign, were delighted to find pen, ink, paper, writing-desk and stamps in waiting fur them, — free; stationery was also forwarded to them in camp, through their chaplains, sometimes ten and fifteen miles out of Savannah. I believe there is no nobler or more faith- ful body of men on the face of the earth than the chaplains in Sherman's army, that have held their position up to the present time. Eight or ten labored with us, distributing our stores day after day, not confining themselves to their own regiments, but acting in every respect as Delegates of the Christian Commission. While this distribution of stores was going on in the surrounding camps, our rooms in Savannah were thronged from morning till night. We opened one morning at nine o'clock with a stock of four thousand books and papers, and at two o'clock r. M. all were gone, and almost every one taken from the counter, — a book or paper to each man who presented himself. You can judge of the continual crowd and procession of men in and out, in order to have distributed that amount of stores in those five hours. It would be impossible to give you any idea of the thankfulness with which the reading, thread, needles, buttons, pens, ink, paper, etc., were received by the men. Some regiments sent in a messenger to thank us. The " Irish Legion" gave three cheers for the Christian Commission. "There is something in Christianity after all," said a man as he left our counter one day, and a like conviction was written pretty legibly ou WORK IN THE AKMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 507 the lares dt' many who had come in carelessly, "just to sec what we had to sell." Iii November the rebels, under < reneral Hood, follow- ing our forces as they fell back from the Tennessee river, broughl tbe "front" into Middle Tennessee, and in a few weeks to the fortifications at Nashville, and within two miles of our Delegates' Home. In the fights at Columbia and Spring Hill the Commission was well represented, and able to afford personal relief to many of the wounded. In the terrible battle of Franklin, and the hasty falling back to Nashville, there was all and more than its strong party could do. The Dele- gates dressed wounds till midnight at Spring Hill, then marched on foot with the ambulance train to Franklin, dressed wounds again till dark, and came into Nashville at twelve o'clock of the second night, with ten box-cars filled with wounded, who, before daylight, were all lifted and loaded into the ambulances, for the hospitals. The Delegates were the sole persons in charge of these men, — nut even having the assistance of nurses to carry the Stretchers. The following account of the work of the Commission at the battle of Nashville, and among our recaptured prisoners at Franklin, is given by the General Field Agent: — When General Thomas moved out of his fortifications at Nashville our force of Delegates was divided into live parties. One on the left, under Mr. Farwell, went to General Steadman's command of colored and detached troops; the second, in the centre, under Mr. Ewing, went to the Fourth Corps; the third, under Mr. McLeod, to the Twenty-third Corps; the fourth, with Cartel- and Jacobs, to the Six- teenth Corps; and the fifth was held in reserve for the hospitals in the city. 508 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. The zeal and efficiency of the Delegates on the left attracted the attention of general officers, and the blood-stains on their persons bore witness to their work in carrying off the dead and wounded. A surgeon, in charge of a division hospital for the colored troops, called afterwards at our office to thank personally the men who, "without obtrusion, were sure to turn up just when there was need." He said many of those black soldiers were picked up and taken care of that day, who would never know that the Christian Commission saved them. In the centre the hospital arrangements were such that there was little need of outside help for feeding the men, and the wounded were taken rapidly back on the Franklin pike to the city hospitals. Here the Delegates' work was principally that of dressing wounds, comforting sufferers, and taking down home addresses and memoranda for home letters,' — the last messages of the living. On the right, having followed all the afternoon in the victorious move- ments of the cavalry and the Sixteenth and Twenty-third Corps, by which the enemy were flanked and driven rapidly back, the Dele- gates found themselves at nightfall on a field over which our men had just swept in a deadly charge upon the enemy's guns, — busily engaged in helping the wounded with water, bandages and cordials. The work for the night was to go over the field, searching for men who had been missed by the stretcher-bearers; gather up the dead, identify them through their comrades, if possible, and mark them by a card; and to give coffee and hot soup at the flying hospital, and be next friend to men dreadfully wounded, — many of them dying. Coming upon a straw stack in our search for the dead, we found two bodies side by side, as if laid together by some friendly hand. As we were lifting them on the stretcher one of them sprang out of our hands, and, pointing to his comrade, said, "It's my brother, sir; it's my brother that's dead. We two were all ; we enlisted together, and I am alone now." Missing him in the fight, he had hunted over the Held and found him dead by the stack; ami, lying down to watch him till morning, had fallen into "the image of death," from which We had awakened him. When we took up the body, to lav it in line with others, the brother followed after, bringing straw to make a bed for himself and his dead. We gave him room in that long row of silent sleepers, and, nestling close to the corpse, he lay down for his last night's rest with his brother. WOBK IX THE ARMY OF THE ( 'I'M 1! EB I. A XI). 509 The scene al the house taken for a hospital baffles description. While Hood was falling back, the citizens who still believed in the Confederacy had taken their movable property, including bedding and best furniture, to the rear, for protection within rebel lines. This house had been made a receptacle for neighbors' furniture, and we were hence aide to put a iirst-chiss mattress under every wounded man. All the rooms below, and the piazza on three sides of the house, were laid thick with officers and privates. Some were sleep- ing under the power of opiates, some were already sleeping in death, others were writhing in mortal agony. Some were calling for the surgeon, some for water, some for mercy; others were offering a prayer of trust and joyous hope of heaven just at hand, and others still were waiting in silent, anxious suspense for the surgeon's deci- sion as to the nature of their wounds. At one o'clock, after personal attention to every man, and having arranged for a watch by relief, we rolled up in our blankets for a little rest. But there was one voice from the wounded, rising above all the others, now in a shriek of torture and now in a tender appeal to the Saviour. It was from an Illinois soldier, wounded in the bowels. One of the Delegates, bending over him, whispered, "Jackson, dn you love Jesus?" *' Do n't I love Him!" was the instant reply. His wound was mortal, and beyond any human relief. We were obliged to leave him and go hack to our blankets. Long after midnight that voice from the piazza, distinct in the dreadful chorus of groans, making sleep im- possible, Stole in on the chilly night air like the voice of a Mute in the clangor of trumpets: " Dear Jesus, you know I love you. Come, Jesus, dear Jesus; I am all readynow. Come, Jesus. You love me, and you know 1 love you, dear Jesus." Fainter and less frequent came thai sweet, divine appeal, till it ceased and we slept. In the morning we found a smile in the eye and on the lip of the dead pa- triot, and he seemed to be still repeating, "Dear Jesus, you love me, and you know I love you." When the morning broke we gave coffee and crackers and chicken soup for breakfast, and then the wounded were taken in ambulances to the city. We found the planter's spades, and dug graves in his garden for the dead, while the shells of hostile batteries were scream- ing across from two opposite hills, almost in a line over our heads. The tight id' the second day was still more sharp and decisive. 510 ANNAES OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. The enemy were routed at every point, and left their dead and wounded on the field. Our men, in the last charge, swept over a ploughed field. They sank in the mud at every step, but still pressed on, and many of them fell within a musket's length of the enemy's works. "We divided that field into sections, and went over it in search of the wounded, and to mark the dead wherever they could be identified. At night, at five hospitals, we repeated the work of the preceding night, on freshly wounded men. The next morning the army started in pursuit of the flying rebels, taking with them the hospital wagons and ambulances. The post ambulances were busy, taking in the wounded from the left, and it was three days before these residences, made into hospitals and filled in one hour from the field of carnage, were emptied of their patients; and then the medi- cal authorities were obliged to press into service the hacks and omnibuses and express wagons of the city. During that time we fed the wounded. There was no other provision for their wants, except now and then a wounded man might have in his haversack a ration or two of hard tack. In that first night of the battle, while we lay listening to the sol- dier's dying appeal to his Saviour, the party in reserve, after the day's duty in the hospital, were gathered around the living lied of a brother Delegate, at our Home in the city. James S. Kimball, of Boston, who had declined a commission in the army to give gratui- tous service in the Christian Commission, preached in the barracks a few evenings before, and finding a soldier without coat or blanket, shivering in the cold, loaned him his shawl, forgetting his own pecu- liar exposure to the night wind after the excitement of a preaching service. The next day he was prostrate with a chill that brought congestion and brain fever. As his chamber windows shook with tlie guns from Fort Negley, multiplied into a hundred batteries along the line, his zeal for saving men kindled anew. He was passing in spiril through the barracks and hospital wards, gathering imagined congregations, leading them in song and prayer, and exhorting them most earnestly to a new life. So he continued to the last. It was the soul, Kimball himself, after an over-worked brain had broken down, holding fast to the one idea of his life, salvation now for those who believe in Christ; and thus he passed, through fever and WORK IN THE AllMY OF THE CTMBERXAND. 511 delirium, to be in the world above war and weariness, " for ever with the Lord." In the complete runt from before Nashville and his flighi in the Tennessee river, Hood had neither time aor the means, if indeed he Intel the wish, to remove our prisoners al Franklin. While the roads were blocked with the artillery and the commissary trains, so as to render it impossible to gel through with our supply wagon, Mr. Ewing, Loading himself down with milk, tea, oysters, butter, and soft crackers, pushed through on fool eighteen miles to Franklin, and was the firsl to bring the gifts of home to these sufferers. The scenes attending thai firsl 'lay's labor among the recaptured wounded, — their enthusiasm on the news, manifested by hurrahs, and stretch- ing over, whenever they could move, to >hakc hands with each other over the victory ; their eagerness to semi word home; their hunger ami filth, many of them lying in the clothes in which they were brought from the field : their grateful exclamations over the taste of oyster simp and buttered cracker passed to eaeh maii: and when. after all had had enough OUl of thai haversack to remind them of home, and many of the sick enough to satisfy a dreadful craving, and they were adjusting themselves for another nighl on t heir bloody blankets, a hymn and evening prayers were proposed, their fervent, unanimous " Yes, chaplain ; lei '- have prayers." followed by "Thai 's good ; thank you, chaplain ; that 's good ;" — these scenes make one of those war-pictures which the pen has no power to sketch even in out- line. The in \t day we loaded two ambulances at Nashville, and the day after a detailed army wagon, with food and eh. thin-, and gave these men their first change of clothing since the battle of Franklin. When a full force of Delegates reached Franklin, Mr. Ewing and Mr. McLeod pushed on, to do the same work with a less number of recaptured men at Spring Hill, ami to open our station at Columbia. Never has the ( ' mission lieeu more busv or more useful than in these closing days of this year. The thirty workers at the Delegates' Some in Nashville caught the spirit of the occasion, and proved themselves to be just such men as the Commission seek- to send, — home representatives. No father or brother could have toiled harder to serve and comfort loved ones than did those Delegates amid these terrible scenes. To minister to the sufferers in the hospitals by counsel and prayer and personal relief; to answer by mail and telegraph the 512 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. anxious inquiries of friends at home, who had not yet learned whether the official report, "1104 missing" at the battle of Franklin, in November, meant dead or captured ; to write letters in all directions, some for soldiers still lingering, and some to carry "hist words;" — all this gave work for every hand and heart, and made every Dele- gate feel that he was crowding weeks into hours and months into days. Neither have we labored in vain. Medical and general offi- cers have called to thank us for aid to their men. These thanks, accompanied sometimes with cash donations, — and especially the di iiiations which the privates are continually handing in, and will not be refused the privilege of giving, — are a very touching testi- mony to the work of the Commission, by those who knew its value from actual experience and observation. I enclose a letter I received a few days since from an officer who has known us long and tho- roughly. 1 After the battle of Nashville and the utter defeat of the enemy, apparently but little campaign work of the Commission remained to be done in this army. Rev. E. P. Smith, the General Field Agent, was transferred, in February, to the armies operating against Richmond, and in the month following he was called to Philadel- phia, as Field Secretary of the Commission at the Cen- tral Office. Mr. T. R. Ewing, who had been in charge of the station at Nashville during the year, was ap- pointed Mr. Smith's successor in the Army of the Cum- berland. The remaining work of the Commission in this Department may therefore be best described in 1 "Please find enclosed one hundred dollars. It is ray Christmas gift to our noble army and navy. I only wish it was one hundred times one hundred. Twenty-eight woiilhs in the army have taught me the various needs of our sol- diers, and twenty months of observation, under the most favorable circum- stances, have shown me how the Christian Commission is accustomed to meet those needs; and I but express a continually deepening conviction when I say that the adaptation, efficiency, and economy realized seem to me to be truly wonderful. "Very respectfully and truly yours, J. C. T." WORK IN THE ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 513 the following extracts from Air. Ewing's report for 1865:— Nashville has continued during the year, as heretofore, our most important station in the Department, — living the headquarters of the Commission and the rendezvous of Delegates, — because of the large number of troops continually in and around the city. The number of government employes and hospital patients and soldiers in camp and barracks has not averaged less than thirty thousand. (iovernnient has continued our free transportation and rent, in- eluding the commodious, well-furnished mansion for our Home, and ample store-rooms and suitable reading and writing-rooms for the soldiers. From first to last we have received only kindness from Major-General Thomas and his chief of staff, General Whipple. They have shown a personal knowledge of and interest in our work which we hardly expected from those whose minds were occupied with so great responsibilities. To General Donaldson, Chief Quarter- master, and Dr. Win. Clendenin, Medical Director at Nashville, we are indebted for many facilities that no others could give, and with- out which our work would have been often hindered and greatly limited. It is difficult, without actual observation, to appreciate the fear- fully demoralizing influences brought to bear on the soldiers by a corrupt city, where every unholy influence of gambling-hells and doggeries and dens of prostitution is let loose on men away from home and tempted by the ennui of camp. The Commission, by its Delegates and stores, did its utmost to counteract these destroying agencies, and, by making itself as far as possible the connecting link between the soldier and his home, lias sought to restrain and save these endangered men. Daily prayer-meetings have been maintained in McKendree Chapel, in several hospitals, in Zollicoffer Barracks, and in the "Lake Forest Tabernacle" in Edgefield. Much good has been accomplished by organizing Christians into bands of brother- hood, by which they were brought together, strengthened and en- couraged. The mention of the work at Nashville station should not close without referring to the labors of Mrs. E. P. Smith, who most efficiently superintended the diet kitchens of the department; made our quarters in Nashville a real home to all connected with our work ; 65 514 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. curried delicacies to the very sick or badly wounded, and distributed reading, and talked of Christ to "her boys in blue" wherever she found them. Her presence and attentions brought a bright ray of home light to many a "boy" that never would see more of home in this world ; and the earnest question, from hospital cot and groups of men gathered about her ambulance in the camps, "When will you come again?" will remain with her a more affecting and valued tri- bute than any that can be written. Chattanooga station, surrounded by a large number of troops, has been to the Commission, as to the army, the second army base to Knoxville and Dal ton, and other points in East Tennessee and Northern Georgia. Rev. H. M. Holmes continued, agent in charge until assigned to the Fourth Corps, when he was succeeded by Rev. T. S. Stivers. The Soldiers' Christian League, organized after the battle of Chattanooga, has been in most successful operation during the year. In the almost uninterrupted series of nightly meetings, the quickening influences of the Holy Spirit have come down upon sinful souls, bringing very many men into Christ's kingdom. From the station at Tullahoma we have reached from ten to fifteen thousand recruits in the camp of instruction under Major-General Milroy. Like all inexperienced troops, they have suffered heavily from sickness and death. Our timely religious and relief work among them was most cordially welcomed and aided by General Milroy. The commencement of 1865 found the Fourth Corps still in pur- suit of Hood's command. Turning from this pursuit, it marched to Huntsville, Ala., in February, and remained until the middle of March. Having suffered greatly in the winter's campaign, they soon filled the post and field hospitals, and hospital delicacies were in urgent demand. Our rooms were opened about the middle of January, and the calls upon us for supplies, unusually pressing from the fact that no other organization for the relief of soldiers had an agency in the corps, rendered our large amount of stores quite inadequate. The force of Delegates was also much smaller than the exigencies required, but the faithful efforts of the little band told powerfully for good. We furnished the corps with nine chapel roofs, and under these and in the Cumberland church, in Huntsville, reli- gious services were held by the Delegates and chaplains. In the WORK IN THE ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 515 latter part of February, Rev. H. M. Holmes was assigned to this (■nips, and marched with it into East Tennessee, to intercept the retreal of Lee from Richmond. Wherever a halt was made meet- ings were held and with good results. At Greenville moms were opened, writing-tables were set up, — soon surrounded by soldiers. Two churches were well filled each night with hearty worshippers. Chaplains and Delegates united in the work. Many cases of scurvy appeared in the corps at Greenville^ Pickles and other anti-scor- butics were loudly called for. The swollen streams had carried off the bridges, and the "dirt roads" were otherwise in their worst winter condition ; but the quartermaster furnished wagons, and Mr. Holmes, pushing through his supplies, was more than repaid by the irrati'ful acknowledgments of suffering men. No one can know the worth of a pickled cucumber till he has seen it devoured by a sol- dier who has marched for weeks on hard-tack and pork. By the favor of the chief engineer of the construction corps, a car-load of Commission stores was brought in upon the first train that entered the town. Just as wc were ready to repeat this supply the corps moved back by rail to Nashville, and went into camp about five miles from the city. A station was established near the centre of each division, ami three Delegates assigned to a station. Each Dele- gate ministered to all the regiments of a brigade that were destitute of chaplains, — some to five, none to less than three. Night and day services were held in the chapels at the stations, under the chapel roofs, and in the open air among the regiments. Never was a wider door opened, and seldom has a golden opportunity been more heartily embraced. The departure of the corps for Texas interrupted this delightful work. Rev. Hugh MeLood followed with the Twenty-third Corps, when General Thomas drove the remnant of the rebel army across the Tennessee river. The weather was cold ami wet, and there was much to be dune for the relief of the sick and weary, constantly falling out by the way. A car-load of vegetables, pushed through on the first opening of the mad, was a priceless gift to the troops at Colum- bia. At Clifton the Twenty-third Corps was ordered to North Caro- lina, to join Genera] Sherman. Mr. McLeod, who had constantly been wiih these troops since the commencement of the Atlanta campaign, reluctantly left them to join the Sixteenth Corps at East- 516 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. port, Mississippi. Here a number of Delegates were at work, under direction of Chaplain Armstrong, for the men of the Sixteenth and for the cavalry corps close at hand. There were no buildings, and the weather was extremely severe, but Major-General A. J. Smith generously gave the Commission his headquarters' boat, and pitched his tent on shore. Through this act of kindness the stores of the Commission were protected, and the Delegates made much more comfortable and efficient in their work. A large shipment was made to Eastport, but before its arrival the Sixteenth was aboard trans- ports under orders for Mobile. At the personal solicitation of General Smith, the goods marked for Eastport were transferred at Paducah to one of his transports, and, with the agent, taken along to New Orleans and then to Dauphin Island. Here Mr. McLeod, with his canvas covers, erected a chapel fifty by twenty-five feet, as he had done during the stay at New Orleans. The government saw- mill furnished seats, and the wreck of a vessel on the beach contri- buted material for a pulpit. The willing soldiers closed the pulpit end of the sanctuary with small trees from the swamps. The lan- terns from the ambulances, added to those of the Commission, lighted the church at night, in spite of the ever fresh sea-breezes. Earnest men filled the tent at the first meeting. The marked interest that began at New Orleans at once manifested itself, and continued to deepen and widen during the two weeks' stay on the island. Could our tent have held six thousand, instead of six hundred, it would cer- tainly have been filled. Soldiers would say : " Chaplain, we can't get in your tent. We have come, and come, and we can't get near your tent for the crowd outside. We must have meetings in our regiments ; can you give us hymn books ? " " Certainly, and all other possible help." Thus various other meetings were commenced. There seemed to be but few indifferent soldiers on the island. Five chap- lains gave constant and most valuable aid. Orders to move were received late on Saturday night, and the next morning we were on the march. It was hard to leave the barren island. During the investment of the strong forts defending Mobile, the work of the Commission was limited, to a great extent, to the divi- sion hospitals of the Sixteenth Corps ; but the revival spirit con- tinued in many regiments. A large and well-assorted shipment was received from Cincinnati. Two weeks in the trenches without rest, WORK IN THE ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND. 517 and with but little apparent progress, had created a depression and a pressing general need. Chaplains united with us in distributing the goods. The suffering were tenderly cared for, and the dead given a Christian burial. Three weeks of siege passed, and Mobile was ours. Again marching orders were received. Transportation was cut down by stringent orders to the lowest practicable point, but a six-mule team was cheerfully furnished to haul Christian Commission stores. From this wagon, all along the two hundred miles to Mont- gomery, delicacies were issued as the sick required. About noon, on the fourteenth day after leaving Fort Blakely, we saw the city Gene- ral Smith designed capturing, but General Wilson had anticipated him, and we had a peaceful entrance, and thanked God for it. Chap- lain Armstrong arrived with another large and valuable assortment of stores from Cincinnati. It was most opportune. The sick of the Sixteenth, and several hundred wounded of General Wilson's corps, greatly needed stimulants, cordials, delicacies, clothing, pads, and rags. No article oi that excellent shipment came amiss in the seven hospitals at Montgomery. From 7 a. m. to 4 p. m. the soldiers from the regiments tilled our large rooms. At Hi a.m. the prayer-meet- ing began, the soldiers readily dropping their pens and heartily join- ing in praise and prayer. They thanked God for home, country, peace, and the tokens of kindness they received from home through the Commission. These gifts from home were indeed means of grace, among which the single, article of paper and envelopes for forty thousand home letters was not the least. It would swell those Annals beyond reasonable limits to give in detail the operations of the Commission upon all the fields of the war. The work in the Valley of the Shenandoah, along the line of the Mississippi, in the Atlantic and Gulf Squadrons, in Texas, and on the Western Plains, as well as at various central points throughout the country, would furnish narratives as full of interest as those which have now been given, and as 518 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. well worthy of preservation. But as this detailed ac- count of all is impossible, it has seemed most satisfactory, for a clear exhibition of the spirit, method, and achieve- ments of the Commission, to give a somewhat minute and representative record of what was done in the prin- cipal Eastern and Western armies, rather than attempt a more comprehensive and less distinct survey of the entire field. CHAPTER IX. CONTRIBUTIONS. The several statistical tallies, »-ivon in other chapters of these Annals, show the annual increase and ultimate extent of the work of the Christian Commission. This chapter is designed to indicate briefly the sources whence (he cash contributions for this work were received, and tin' methods by which they were raised. The increase in receipts was constant and rapid. For the first eight months of the Commission's history the receipts ;it the central treasury were $1,196.51, — a monthly average of less than $150; for the last four months they were $234,- 119.46, — a monthly average of nearly $60,000, — show- ing an increase of nearly four hundredfold. Of course the rate of growth for the whole period was much be- low this, but the gross receipts for the last four months ($2,053,341.69) as compared with the same for the firsl fourteen months 1 ($182, 310.20), shows an increase in the monthly average of more than thirty-seven fold. And the work of collection was much easier at the end than at the beginning. The small cost of gathering the Commission's supplies must in pari he attributed to the greal facilities freely afforded by transportation and tele- 1 The first financial report published included the time from the origin of the Commission, Nov. 16, 1861, to the close of January, L862. 519 520 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. graph companies, and by the newspaper press, and in part to the gratuitous services of officers, agents and Delegates; hut it is much more largely due to the readi- ness of the people to give, — asking oftentimes for the privilege, instead of -waiting Ho be called upon. The principal reason for this must be found in their own in- terest in the work of relieving and aiding the army, and their conviction that the Christian Commission was doing that work well. And if the ground of this conviction be asked for, the obvious reply is that the thousands of well-known men who went as Delegates to the army, from all parts of the country, testified as to what they saw and heard, and the tens of thousands of soldiers confirmed the testimony by writing to their homes the story of what was continually done for them. 1 It is hence instructive to notice that almost the whole of the great sum contributed was the free-will offering of the Christian public, upon the simple merits of the case. The Commission did not encourage the use of fairs and other similar expedients for raising money. A few fairs 2 were held by friends of the Commission upon their own responsibility; but while these were reasonably successful, they furnished a very small proportion of the 1 The following note, a specimen of many, was sent to Mr. Stuart, during a meeting in the City Hall, Haverhill, Mass., in November, 1S63: "Please state, if you see fit, that at least one soldier present owes his life, in a large measure, to the kindness of the Christian Commission in a time of need ; and that the only sermon which he heard, during a connection of nearly four months with the Am- bulance Corps, was from a gentleman connected with the Commission. "Gratitude." 2 The principal of these were in San Francisco, yielding to the Commission $54,000; Sacramento, $22,600; Buffalo, $21,000; Baltimore, $40,000; Chicago, $50,000, and Washington, $13,000. The three last were joint fairs, the profits being divided between the Christian Commission and other institutions. They were all held in 1864, except that at Chicago, which was in the spring of 1865. CONTRIBUTIONS. 521 gross receipts, — not more than $250,000. More than two millions two hundred thousand dollars in cash were therefore given to the Commission, during the four years of its history, by public and private contributions, with- out any motive but such as was drawn from the work itself. It is believed that this fact is without a parallel in the annals of popular benevolence. 1 And it shows also that the Christian Commission was pre-eminently a popular institution. Without elaborate methods or complicated machinery, it sought to transfer the gifts of the people, with the least delay and waste, to those for whom they were given. It kept no reserve funds, but, regarding itself as simply the agent of the Christian public for a specific purpose, it depended upon the gene- rosity and promptness of the people for the needs of each hour, and held itself ready to retire as soon as its work was done. The small balance in the treasury at 1 It may be thought that the United States Sanitary Commission, whose receipts were so much larger than those of the Christian Commission, furnishes an excep- tion to the above statement. The subjoined analysis of the cash receipts of the Sanitary Commission, as given in its official history, is not intended as a criticism upon that excellent and praiseworthy society, but is here presented as coufirming the claim made for the Christian Commission, and as an incidental illustration of its peculiar character and method. Rev. Dr. Bellows, President of tin- Sani- tary Commission, makes a similar analysis of its receipts upon pages 241 and 242 of the History. For the figures here given see pages 539-548. Total cash Receipts by U. S. Sanitary Commission $4,924,048.99 Received from Facific Coast $1,448,552.44 " " Foreign Countries 120,u07.58 " " the Sanitary Fairs 2,73(3,808.84 " " Interest on U. S. Certificates and Deposits 42,849.49 " " Sanitary Bulletin 2,351.80 " Sales of Stock, etc 72,298.07=4,423,528.22 Leaving, "as the total amount contributed iii cash by all other sources, of a spontaneous kind" $500,520.77 66 522 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. the close of its labors was due to the suddenness and bloodlessness of the victories -which terminated the -war, rather than to any design on the part of the Commis- sion. Had the battles been fought which seemed immi- nent when Richmond fell, the Commission would probably have been as penniless at the close of its history as at its beginning. Public Collections. — The main dependence of the Commission for funds was upon public collections in the churches and at special meetings. The single aim, in all appeals and presentations of the subject through the press 1 and in public addresses, was to place the responsi- bility of maintaining the work upon the churches. An opportunity was presented of evangelizing the army and aiding in its temporal relief; the opportunity and duty belonged to the Church. The Christian Commission promised to do just what the Church enabled it to do. It could promise no more; it pledged itself to do no less. And the appeal on this ground never failed. It was proven many times over that, with a clear understand- ing of the case, the Church is ready to do her duty. Hence the numerous public meetings that were held, at every stage of the work, in every part of the country, with collections varying from a few dollars to many 1 The Commission did not publish an organ. It was at one time proposed to do so, but after thoroughly discussing the matter it was determined to rely upon the religious and secular press for the publicity of plans and operations. For a short time, — less than a year, — a monthly circular was issued, entitled "Informa- tion for Army Meetings," and designed mainly to meet the wants of those cimrches that set apart the fourth Sunday evening in each month for a special service of prayer in behalf of the army. This circular was composed of recent facts and incidents, and a statement of the needs of the Commission. The Sun- day-School Times, more largely than any other paper, published the doings of the Commission, and gave full reports of its principal public meetings. CONTRIBUTIONS. •">"_':'> thousands. Returned Delegates, pastors, home commit- tees and special agents were alike engaged in these meet- ings. The press was always ready with its co-operation. Some incidents are particularly noteworthy. In the city of New York, on one occasion, "it was proposed to hold a public meeting in the Academy of Music, not so much for the purpose of calling attention to any particular claims which were specially urgent, as to submit state- ments with regard to the general operations of the Com- mission. The speakers were engaged, and the arrange- ments were all completed. But when the evening came tin- whole country was in a blaze of excitement. The memorable campaign of the spring of 1864 had opened, and the fearful 'battles of the AViklerness' were in pro- gress. The Academy was thronged by a vast multitude. The speakers appealed in behalf of the thousands of bleeding, suffering, dying men. The memories of An- tietam, of Fredericksburg, of Chancellorsville, and of Gettysburg were recalled. It was a scene never to be forgotten. A collection was taken up amounting to tir, nti/six thousand dollars, — the largest plate collection probably ever taken in this country. It was soon in- creased to thirty-five thousand." 1 Again, in the same city, "during the last campaign, while the final struggle was going on, there was an urgent call for a large amount of means. There was no time fir a public meeting. On Friday a brief appeal was drawn up. On Saturday it was sent to the clergy of the city, with the request that, if practicable, it lie read in their churches the next day. This was done by many of the clergy, and the result was remarkable. At one of the churches it was the occasion i Memorial Record of th, Wew York Branch, page 25. ~)24 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. of their annual missionary collection; the clergyman was at a loss to know what to do. He read the appeal, — he paused. — but finally determined to take up a collection at once for this object This was done before the ser- mon; after the sermon the regular collection was taken. The former amounted to over one thousand dollars, and the latter was fully equal to what it ever had been. At another ehureh the appeal was read, and an impromptu collection was taken, amounting to twenty-five hundred dollars. The clergyman at another ehureh read the ap- peal, and asked his people to send him in what they could; the response was nearly two thousand dollars." 1 In Philadelphia, the central seat of the Commission; the public meetings were more numerous than ehe- where, and were a source of constant revenue. At a meeting in the Church of the Epiphany, in May, 1864, the collection and attendant subscriptions reached $5Q,00U. Others were only less remarkable than this. The Commission was not without honor and support at home. At Pittsburg, in May, 1864, at a public meeting, the collection was $22,000, and was increased the next day to $h">,000. Similar incidents might he recorded of other cities East and West. But not in the cities alone were these exhibitions of benevolence given. The towns and villages were not behind. Curwensville, Clearfield county. Pa., by the census of 1860, numbered 455 souls. At a meeting on Thanksgiving Day, in November, 1863, attended by 150 persons, and addressed by the Methodist minister, a collection was taken for the Commission amounting to 1 .1/, m •iai /.'■ co ■d, pp. 25, 26. C0NTRIB1 TIONS. 525 &(»()(); in the following May the above minister was going to the army as a Delegate, when another meeting was hold, addressed by one who had recently returned from the field, and the receipts were $857.25; two months later a resident in the same village sent si, (too tn the treasury; in addition to this, there were other contributions of money and stores. .Morgan county, Illinois, is a farming district. The total population in 1860 was 22,112. Its largest town contained less than 6,000 persons, ami the second in size less than 2,000. Jn the summer of 1864, upon an appeal from Rev. Mr. McCabe and Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Jacob Strawn, the wealthiest farmer in the county, gave $500 for the Commission, and offered to make it $10,000, on condition that the other farmers of the county should give a like sum. The proposition was accepted, the county canvassed by meetings held in churches, school-houses, and groves. — arranged by Mr. M. P. Avers, of Jacksonville, and addressed by Messrs. Revnolds and McCabe. In nine davs eleven meetings were held, and $10,700 collected: $2,000 more were raised at Jacksonville, — making in all $22,700 from one county in a few davs, — over $1 for each inhabitant. San Joaquin county, California, contained in 1860 a population of 9,435, — its largest town, Stockton, contain- ing 3,679. In July, 1864, the county gave to the Com- mission a little less than $10,000. Public collections were taken in the churches on several of the Fast and Thanksgiving Days which were observed during the war. The receipts from Thanks- giving collections in November, lSi;:i, were ss: '.. lot). Special Contribution's. — Exigencies in the opera- 526 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. tions of the Commission were sometimes met by public appeals for immediate help. The battle of Gettysburg, in 1863, the battles of the "Wilderness," in 1864, and the capture of Richmond, in 1865, furnish examples. As the Commission kept no reserved funds, such sudden enlargement of their work demanded an almost instan- taneous supply of means. It has been already told how Boston, on the three occasions named, responded, at their Merchants' Exchange, to the daily visits of the Commission's representatives. 1 Other cities made like responses. In the last instance, — the fall of Rich- mond, — in anticipation of severe engagements and much suffering, the needs of the Commission were carried be- fore extemporized gatherings' of the people, into the Boards of Trade, and to the prominent places of busi- ness. As the glad tidings, that the rebel capital had fallen, spread through the North with the sj:>eed of lightning, it kindled everywhere the wildest enthusiasm. Business was abandoned, the excited multitudes thronged the streets, and gratitude for the prospect of peace was pervaded with exultant praise of the victorious army. It was easy to direct these powerful emotions toward a practical and substantial assurance that the soldier's necessities were remembered not less than his valor, in the hour of a nation's triumph and exultation. As a result, New York sent $50,000 to the treasury ; Boston and Philadelphia, each $30,000; Pittsburg, $10.(100 (having sent $15,000 a short time before) ; San Fran- cisco, $10,000 ; and many other places in proportion. The receipts within one week were $150,000. In July, 1863, at Saratoga Springs, when the hotels 1 See p. 253. CONTRIBUTIONS. 527 were full of guests, an appeal for Lee, from the soldiers in the neighborhood of Charleston, was presented .-it the dinner tables of that fashionable watering-place. Over $3,000 wore speedily subscribed, and a cargo of ice, with other timely stores, was scum forwarded to the needy sufferers. 1 Under this head may be also placed the contributions of persons and associations whose positions, or the circumstances under which they contributed, gave to their offerings peculiar value and influence. Such were the donations received from members of the National, State, and municipal governments. President Lincoln more than once expressed his confidence in the Com- mission, not only by official favors, but also by personal contributions, given with characteristic quietness and 1 A writer in the Sfanday-SsAooJ Times, for August '27, lS(i:>. tells how the money was raised at Saratoga: "The question arose, How shall wo set at these and gain a hearing ? Mr. Stuart said, 'The only time when they are all together is at the dinner table. I will make a speech of just one minute at the dinner.' ' But in the infinite clatter of plates, the noise of waiters running to ami fro. the clamor of conversation, and the general melee of a thou-and hungry people scrambling for their dinner, you cannot get a hearing. It is impossible.' 'Let me try.' 'Agreed.' So when dinner had advanced about one-third .'fit- course, a concerted noise of rapping was heard in different parts of the room, and instantly, over all the din. a clarion voice was heard uttering these words : ' / have aemfrom Charleston ." Had a hall from one of Gilmore's 200 Parroters struck the house, the etiect could not have been more instan- taneous. Every knife and fork dropped : every eye was turned to the speaker. The falling of a pin could have been almost heard. With a tender solemnity of manner that showed how- his whole soul was wound up in the cause, and at the same time with a smile of indescribable sweetness that begged and gained in advance forgiveness for the petty ruse which had been practised, he -aid: ' 1 have a despatch from the commanding officer at Hilton Head, saying, ' /■' for our mounded soldiers/" Will the hoarders at Saratoga re-pond '." ' We will I 11V will! We wii.i. ! ' was shouted from every pari of the immense hall. And they did. In less than twenty-four hours a purse of was made up, and the ice was Boon on its way from Boston," 528 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. modesty. 1 Members of the Cabinet and of Congress, together with many high officials in both the civil and military service, imitated their chief. The National House of Representatives granted the use of their Hall for each of the Commission's four anniversaries. Hon. Schuyler Colfax, Speaker of the House, besides other contributions, sent to the Commission the profits of a public lecture, and employed a part of the recesses of Congress in addressing public meetings held for the Commission in the neighborhood of his home. Others in similar positions exerted similar influence. The heads of the departments at times received from Americans abroad, or from subordinates at home, con- 1 The following incident is quoted from Mr. Carpenter's Six Monthi at the While Mouse, p. 161: — "About this period [early in the summer of 1864], numerous delegations from various religious bodies and associations thronged the White Houssfe Among the number none met so cordial reception as that of the Christian Commission, composed of volunteer clergymen who had just returned from the Wilderness battle-ground. In the brief address by the chair- man of the occasion, he stated that the group before the President embraced those who had been first on the held to offer aid and refreshments to the wounded of that terrible series of battles. In reply Mr. Lincoln expressed his appreciation of the self-denying services rendered by the Commission, in feel- ing terms. He concluded his response in these words: 'And 1 desire also to add to what I have said, that there is one association whose objects and motives I have never heard in any degree impugned or questioned; and that is the Christian Commission. And in "these days of villainy," as Shakspeare says, that is a record, gentlemen, of which you may justly be proud.' Upon the conclusion of the 'ceremony,' he added, i ti a conversational tone, 'I believe, however, it is old Jack Falstaff wdio talks about "villainy," though of course Shakspeare is responsible.' After the customary hand-shaking which followed, several gentlemen came forward and asked the President for his autograph. One of them gave his name as ' Cruikshank.' 'That reminds me,' said Mr. Lincoln, 'of what I used to be called when a young man,— " longshanks." ' Hereupon the rest of the party, emboldened by the success of the few, crowded around the desk, and the President good-naturedly wrote his name for each; — the scene suggesting forcibly to my mind a country schoolmaster's weekly dis- tribution of tickets among his pupils." CONTRIBUTIONS. 529 tributions for the relict' of the army, and in several instances these contributions were forwarded to the Christian Commission. The Electoral College of Pennsylvania, when it met in 1864 to cast its vote for President and Vice-President of the United States, voted to give the pay and mileage of its members to the Christian Commission. 1 The members of many of the State governments gave the Commission's treasury the benefit of their example and advocacy. The City Council of Baltimore, having voted a salute of One hundred and forty guns for the 4th of July, INC.:!, afterward reconsidered their action, and voted that the amount so appropriated, with $500 additional, should ' I It .ii. Morton McMichael, President of the Electoral College, communicated iis anion in llie following letter: — "Dsoemier, l^' ; i " Dear Si ■ \t the recent session of the Electoral College of Pennsylvania, it was unanimously resolved thai the pay and mileage of the members should he appropriated to the christian Commission, and as President of the body I was directed to hand the amount to yon. Accordingly, 1 enclose to yen the order of the State Treasurer for $594; a warrant from the United States Treasury for $62.50; ami the check of C. M. Runk, Esq., for $21 ; the latter being an addi- tional contribution. " In making this appropriation, the College intended, beyond the mere dona- tion of the money, to mark the high sense which, in its judgment, is enter- tained in all parts of Pennsylvania, of the invaluable services which the Chris- tian Commission have rendered to the country. Coming, as its members did, from every congressional district in the State, and assembled, as they were, for the performance of a most solemn and important public duty, it was further hoped ami believed that the action of the College in this respect, both as a tribute and a testimonial, might aid in promoting the great objects for which the Commission has labored with such unselfish eeal, such untiring earnestness, and such distinguished success. "With assurances of personal regard, I am, dear sir, " Very truly, your friend, " Morton McMichaei* "To Geo. H. Stiaut, Esq., Chairman C. C." 67 530 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. be sent to the Christian Commission. They thought this a better way of commemorating the Declaration of Independence and the fresh victory of Gettysburg. At the same time the city of Bangor, Maine, sent through their Mayor a check for $700. In May, 1864, the Mayor of Newport, P. I., seeing the Commission's ap- peal for help, at once requested the city pastors to take collections in their congregations, and himself became the agent for forwarding the sums contributed. Frequent reference has already been made to the grant of their facilities to the Commission by the great transportation and telegraphic corporations of the coun- try. These grants were worth more than their cash value, for, in addition to the influence of such action on the part of the companies, many thousands of dollars' worth of stores were forwarded which would never have been shipped if full freight had been required. Many of the officers of these corporations were active mem- bers of the Commission's local committees or contribu- tors to its funds. In some cases the coiqiorate bodies, as such, gave liberal donations. The Pennsylvania Cen- tral Railroad, which constantly gave the use of its entire line for the passage of Delegates and stores, contributed at one time fo,000. Several of the large banking and insurance companies, in New York, Philadelphia, and elsewhere, were generous contributors. Prominent busi- ness houses, in all parts of the country, dealing in stores that could readily be used in the Commission's work or converted into cash, made donations from their stock or sold to the Commission at the cost price. In some eases the dealer gave to the Commission a certain proportion of his profits for a limited period. The employes in CONTRIBUTIONS. J531 manufacturing and mercantile establishments frequently clubbed together to make up a purse for the Com- mission: The Commission sent no agents to foreign countries, and made no appeal except to the fellow-citizens of those who were fighting for the nation's life. And yet considerable sums found their way into the treasury from abroad, for the story of what was being done went everywhere. Americans and friends of America in Canada, England, 1 the Continent of Europe, Asia, South 1 The thoughtful offering of Mrs. Sorby, an American lady resident in Eng- land, has already been recorded, on p. -*-. The following letter from the venerable Scotch missionary, Rev. Dr. Duff, shows the considerateness of foreign friends. It was addressed to Mr. Thomas Nelson, tin- Edinburgh pub- lisher, — both gentlemen being personal friends of Mr. Stuart, and active in their interest fur the Commission: — •• Edinburgh, March 7. 1865. "Assuredly no words of mine are needed to commend that truly marvellous missionary enterprise, The United States Christian Commission. The simple, heart-thrilling record of its scope, object, and actual proceedings, is its best recommendation. Having been in America, I know well that, beneath the apparently tumultuous surface of society in that great land, there are thousands and tens of thousands of truly Christian, (iod-1'earing people, who are its very 'salt,' in the emphatic scriptural sense of that most significant term. And the Christian Commission is only the visible cropping out and embodiment of this grand conservative element, causing its curative influences to be powerfully felt amid the upheavings and convulsive struggles that constitute the crisis of a great nation's destiny. Such an army of volunteer philanthropists, amid of havoc and bloodshed, the world has never seen before. In promot- ing the objects of this Commission, the United States, bo inexhaustible in their resources, require no pecuniary aid at our hands. Still, liulhinks that a free- will offering on our part, however humble, simply expressive of our approving sympathy, homage, and good-will, would only lie a fitting tribute, which the nobly generous hearts beyond the Atlantic would know how to appreciate, and, in due time, becomingly to reciprocate. Nor need any one be deterred from joining in a tribute of sympathy and good-will, towards a movement of such transcendent Christian worth, by any particular views or theories respecting the origin or primary objects of the civil war, which, tor the last four year-, lias been raging, on a scale of such stupendous magnitude, throughout the 532 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. America, and the Sandwich Islands, 1 testified their sym- pathy and interest by asking that they might also help in the great work of mercy and patriotism. Peculiarly precious among these foreign offerings were the gifts from the American missionaries scattered over the world. They desired to have fellowship with their brethren at home in the work of preaching Christ to the army ; and so they sent, from their distant fields of United States. Sufficient for us, on this side of the Atlantic, to know and bear in mind, that the great war began, anil would have continued to rage, though no Christian Commission had ever existed ; and that the grand end of the Commission has been to mitigate its honors by bountifully and heroically ministering to the bodily and spiritual wants of the combatants on both sides ; and that, too, to an extent, as well as in ways and modes, which may challenge the admiration of all Christendom. While, therefore, gladly forwarding my own humble mite, I earnestly hope that those on whom the Lord has bestowed abundance of this world's substance will not be backward in contributing from their ampler stores; and that all who have learnt to rejoice in the blessed gospel, as the message of 'Glory to God in the highest, peace on earth, and good-will to men,' may unite in fervent prayer that the two greatest Christian Protestant nations, — Great Britain and America, — may soon come to embrace each other in the arms of mutual forbearance and love, and hail each other's cordial co-operation in forwarding the grandest and most glorious of all enter- prises, — even that of the evangelization of the world. "I remain, yours very sincerely. "Alexander Duff." 1 Among the many memorable letters received from abroad by the Christian Commission, the following may serve as a type: — " Honolulu, Sandwich Islands, p ■■ .V.,r. mil r 30, 1864. J "lit:... II. Stuart, Ohairman V. S. C. C. " Dear Sir: The American women resident on the Sandwich Islands, wishing to aid your organization in its noble efforts to alleviate the sufferings of the soldiers, in the civil war now existing in their mother country, have formed a Branch Society, anil have been engaged for the last few weeks in raising funds for that object, and now forward, as the result of a Fair and collections, a draft lor $5,500 on Charles 11. Marshall, of New York City. "Respectfully yours, Kate M. Whitney, "Sec'yand Treat. Ladies' Hawaiian C. C" While the greater part of this sum was from the city of Honolulu, yet the several islands of the Hawaiian group were represented in it. contributions. 533 selfrdenying toil, their "prayers and alms" as a memo- rial. Ami not only the missionaries, but those whom they had taughl to love God, and to love the country whence the missionaries came, were contributors to the Commission. The girls in two missionary boarding- schools in Canton, China, following the example of their teachers, forwarded a box of Chinese curiosities, — articles mainly of their own manufacture. A native convert, Antonius Yanni, of Tripoli, Syria, and the American Vice-Consul at that place, sent a collection of Syrian articles, by the hand of Rev. H. H. Jessup, missionary at Beirut. 1 Mr. Yanni forwarded a second box of Syrian curiosities, which reached Philadelphia on the 2d of April, 1866, and was the last donation received by the Christian Commission. The mission- aries at Constantinople, and also at the several stations in India, Siam, and Persia, should be mentioned as sharing in these memorials of Christian and patriotic fellowship. Valuable as testimonials of appreciation were the offerings that came from the soldiers themselves. These were never solicited. Indeed, the policy of the Commis- 1 These Syrian curiosities were sold for something over $200, and the amount expended in Dr. Bonar's little book, "God's Way of Peace," — Mr. Yanni's name being inscribed in each copy, — and thus circulated through the army. Re \ . Mr. Jessup, while in this country, in communicating Mr. Yanni's gift, wrote tu tic Chairman of the Commission, — "These contributions are not large, hut they are valuable as an expression of interest in tie- welftireof our brave soldiers from one who received the light of salvation from America, and now desires to do something for America. lie prays daily tor < lod's hlo-sine, on i.ur dear coun- try, and he is not !l»- only one in Syria who remembers our government in prayer. Best assured, sir, that American missionaries all over the world cease not to pray tor their native land, and that one of our highest joy- is to hear native converts praying in a foreign tongue for God's blessing on far-distant America." 534 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. siou was rather to discourage them, as it was above all desirous that there should be no semblance of selling the benefactions of the people, or of showing partiality in their distribution. Yet oftentimes the soldier, alike officer and private, would not be denied 1 this method of attesting his estimate of the Commission's presence and service in the army. The total receipts from this source were many thousands of dollars. These contributions were mostly in small sums, handed to tbe Delegates or agents at the field stations of the Commission. But in some instances they were considerable in amount, and were sent to tbe treasury of the Central Office or of some auxiliary. 2 " A soldier in the front," without name or date, sends $20. A "discharged soldier" sends $20 for the prisoners in Richmond. "A Massachusetts private" sends $50, the amount of his yearly benevo- lence when at home, and he does not wish to forego it while in the army. 3 The One Hundred and Thirty- eighth Pennsylvania regiment send $189 ; the Phila- delphia "Washington Grays," $78; tbe Third Vermont regiment, in a package containing a list of 300 names, marked " through free by Adams Express," $210. A New York private makes a deposit of $255, which the 1 Rev. S. H. Emery, of Quincy, 111., writes: "One soldier, who lost a leg al Gettysburg, gave me $5 for the Commission. Said I, ' Isn't a leg enough to give for your country?' 'Oh,' said he, and the tears started, ' I saw what the Com- mission did for us poor fellows at Gettysburg ; I must give $5.' And a few days after he gave me another $5. A prisoner from Andersonville, — poor fellow, — gave me fifty cents. He would give it ; God bless him !" 2 The rent of the rooms occupied by the Commission at Memphis was for several months paid by the Commanding General, at the rate of $50 per month. 3 A surgeon, in acknowledging the receipt of supplies at a very opportune moment, says, " Since entering the army, nearly four years ago, it has been my design that one-tenth of the income in my commission should be appropriated to charitable purposes connected with the army." CONTRIBUTIONS. .">:',."> Commission is to use without interest until called for, and in case of his death the whole sum is to go into the treasury. A lieutenant in the Ninth New Hampshire regiment said, "Should the Christian Commission be given up by the people, I believe the army would sup- port it by their contributions." 1 The men in the navy did not forget that the Commission was for all who were in the national service, and they were ready also to show their sympathy with their brethren on shore. As re- presentative of many may be mentioned the action of the crew of the Pocahontas, who forwarded an address to the Commission, with $135 in money. The " naval and civil officers, mechanics, and employes" at the Charlestown Navy Yard contributed at one time the sum of $0,432.26; and the men at the Portsmouth and Battery Navy Yard gave each the income of a day's labor, amounting in all to 14,000. There was a large list of individual contributions, where the motive for the gift was often in good part aside from the special needs of the Commission, — the Commission becoming the medium through which sonic 1 Rev. E. 1'. Smith writes from the Army of the Cumberland: — "We are Laving some Interesting donations, — not large but full of meaning. The Twenty- fifth Illinois regiment has taken its lliinl collection for the cause, of course with- out a suggestion from us. Yesterday a young soldier came in, his clothes looking as if they had seen a hard campaign, and asked if we hail paper and envelopes to sell. 1 said, 'No; we have nothing to sell, hut we give to men in hospitals and to any soldier who wants to write at our table.' ' Is that the way you do it? said he, drawing out his purse; 'well, I want you to keep the establishment going till you have Bpenl that, at any rate,' — throwing down a two-dollar greenback. An- other soldier read the heading on our writing-paper, took out :\ dollar and laid it down, saying, 'That u'tvenhaek is well spent, whatever has ennie of the rest.' Some hand us two dimes, and so on, to ten dollars. The amount received in this way is not large, but every dime i- from overflowing gratitude or a full apprecia- tion of our work." 536 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. personal affection or emotion found expression. An occasional check for $500 was received from some person who gave neither name nor date, as a " thank-offering for God's goodness," or in acknowledgment of " depend- ence upon God's bounty," — the identity of the giver being known only from the uniformity of the writing. A gentleman in Wisconsin sent perhaps a dozen letters, averaging a half-dozen words each, and enclosing from $10 to $30. An "elderly lady of limited means, who had dressed plainly and lived sparingly that she might aid in some way her country's defenders," sent $125.50 in gold (worth double that sum in currency) to the Brooklyn treasury, but would give no name. A " ser- vant girl," whose wages for the year amounted to $91, sent $25 to the Commission. Mr. Chamberlain, of Cin- cinnati, received a five-dollar bill from a dying soldier, with the simple words : " This is all I have to leave on earth ; I want to give it to the best friend I ever had, — the Christian Commission ; " also a two-dollar bill from a dead soldier's mother, with the statement, " This was all John had when he died; and as the Christian Commis- sion was instrumental in bringing him to Christ, I know he would want to give it to that Commission were he alive." A soldier's mother gave five dollars which had been pledged to the Commission by her son while in a rebel prison, after having there received aid from the Commission; he was afterwards exchanged and fell in battle. Numerous keepsakes and heirlooms, many of them of large intrinsic value, found their way from among the treasures of the households into the resources of the Commission, — articles of jewelry, specimens of fine art, and historical mementos. Some of these were CONTRIBUTIONS. 537 disposed of at a heavy advance upon their original cost. A lady in Philadelphia, whose sons and grandsons were in the army, one of each having fallen in the service, sent two valuable India shawls, the bequest of a recently deceased daughter. A widow in Chicago, whose sun had fallen at Chiekamauga, and whose grandfather was in the Revolutionary war, gave a one-dollar bill of Continental money that had been paid to the latter for his services; the bill afterwards sold for $300. One who had lost a loved daughter sent $G0O to be expended upon an army chapel tent, which should be called the "Memorial Tabernacle." A lady who was much interested in the welfare of the army was suddenly stricken down by dis- ease while away from home; the husband found a sum of money in her trunk, which was forwarded to the Commission as the offering of a " beloved wife and mother now in heaven." Mrs. Isabella G. Duffield, of Detroit, writes to Mr. Stuart, under date of Sept. 30, 1863: — "Having, with great thankfulness to God, heard that my youngest son is not wounded, and quite well at Chattanooga, I send you $20, as a thank-offering from a mother for the preservation of her son at the battle of Chiekamauga." Tin.' individual offerings mentioned above varied in amount from a few cents to thousands of dollars. Instances were not wanting of annual subscriptions of $1,000 to $5,000, — with perhaps equal sums given in the intervals by the same persons, to meet some special call. Sometimes a church, or an ecclesiastical body, or a single person, would provide the salary of a | enuanent Delegate or agent. Frequently a Delegate would refuse to take from the Commission the sum appropriated for 68 538 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. his personal exjienses while in the work ; and the gentlemen chosen to address the Commission at its anniversaries often insisted upon performing the service at their own charges. The occasions of social intercourse and entertainment were turned to account for the benefit of the Commis- sion and the soldiers. An accustomed festive gathering of friends, or a little concert or exhibition by a school, — to which no thought of money-making was ever attached, and which had hitherto been without fee for attend- ance, — was now made to help forward the good work. And the attendance was larger because of the opportu- nity of giving. Sometimes the neighborhood gathering or the special entertainment was devised as the readiest means of providing exjn'ession for the desire to con- tribute. In the town of Tomales, California, occupied by farmers, where there were twenty houses and three hundred voters, a festival was given which netted for the Commission $2,815.36. A parlor concert in Phila- delphia brought in $108. In June, 18G4, the young ladies, — fifteen in number, — of the literary society in Knox Female Seminary, at Galesburg, Illinois, dis- pensed with their customary society badges, and sent the sum they had appropriated for that purpose, — $50, — to the Commission. " It is a small offering," they say, " but our hearts are in it, and we cheerfully give it, hoping that it may do good to some of our brave soldiers who are so nobly periling their lives in the de- fence of our country." In the same month, the gradu- ating class of young ladies, — forty-seven in number, — in the Mt. Holyoke Female Seminary, at South Hadley, Massachusetts, relinquished their customary class badges, contributions; ■'>■'>'.) and devoted the sum intended for thai purpose, — $180, — to the Commission. Their pastor went at that time as a Delegate to the army, and they sent the money by him, "with great heartiness and unanimity, for the benefit of the sick and wounded soldiers." An exhibi- tion of tableaux in Troy, New York, produced $800. A small school of eleven girls, in Easton, Pennsylvania, gave a concert and raised $125. A gentleman in Phila- delphia gave an exhibition of his private art collection, which secured for the Commission $1,200. The Commission was largely indebted to the ladies for the efficiency and success of all the methods by which money was raised. Their presence and influence have been felt, even where not expressly mentioned, in the majority of the illustrations which have been given, and they were themselves most generous contributors. To solicit for funds, to prepare for an entertainment, and then preside over and direct it ; to follow up all the details of the benevolent movement, making the needed explanations, excuses, and pleas, until the money was actually on the way to the treasury; — this continually devolved upon the women of the country, — besides the consulting, planning, cutting, sewing, assorting, packing, which were implied in every box of stores that came from their unwearied hands. Pui in this enumeration of the sources of income to the Commission, the children must not be forgotten. They gave and they worked for the soldiers. They knit and they sewed; they made comfort-.bags and house- wives, — filling them and writing letters for them; they picked lint and they gathered fruit ; they gave their holiday money, and they held entertainments of various 540 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. kinds, at which to raise more money. The cash con- tributions only will be noticed here. These were legion in number and not small in amount. A children's Fair in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, produced over $1, 300; one in Sing Sing, New York, over $1,200 ; one in Erie, Pennsylvania, over $500 ; one in Astoria, Long Island, over $400 ; one in Kalamazoo, Michigan, $150 ; one in New Haven, Connecticut, the same ; and many others yielded smaller sums. 1 The Sunday-schools were active, often repeating their donations. One school in Pitts- burg gave $212 ; one in Columbia, California, $123 ; and others an equal or larger amount. The individual offer- ings from the little ones were abundant, ranging from a few pennies to several dollars, and often accompanied with the simple and earnest expressions of their hearty interest in the matter. The illustrations given above, representatives of many thousands perhaps equally entitled to be recorded, will show by what methods the treasury of the Commission was supplied. The work was constantly laid before the people, and they were asked for their sympathy, their prayers, and their contributions, and then they were left to act as their interest and circumstances might deter- mine. The response, as the record shows, was sponta- neous, continuous, and abundant. It was the free-will offering of piety and Christian patriotism, for the pre- servation of the nation, the salvation of men, and the honor of God. 1 Two children, in Newton Centre, Massachusetts, held a fair in their father's parlor, and received $1215.86. Two children at Newton Corner gave a concert, and received $238. CHAPTER X. DELEGATES. The position of the Delegates in the work of the Christian Commission will be most clearly set forth in the official documents in which their duties are defined. These documents were not essentially modified after their first issue in 1862, although experience suggested some changes of details. They are here given in their final form. The commission which was issued to each Dele- gate, and which constituted his authorization and creden- tials for the work, was as follows: — Commission. No Office U. S. Christian Commission, No. 11 Bask Street, Philadelphia, 1S6 To Officer* of the Army and Navy of the United States, and Otln rs: The U. S. Christian Commission, organized by a convention of the Young Men's Christian Associations of the loyal States, to promote the spiritual and temporal welfare and improvement of the nun of the A rniy and Navy, acting under the approbation and commen- dation of the President, the Secretaries of the Army and the Navy, the Postmaster-General, the Surgeon-General, and the Generals in Command, have appointed a Delegate, to act in accordance with instructions furnished here- 541 542 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. with, under the direction of the proper officers, in furtherance of the objects of the Commission. His services will be rendered in behalf of the Commission, without remuneration from or expense to the Government. His work will be that of distributing- stores, where needed, in hos- pitals and camps; circulating good reading-matter amongst soldiers and sailors; visiting the sick and wounded, to instruct, comfort and cheer them, and aid them in correspondence with their friends at home; aiding surgeons on the battle-field and elsewhere, in the care and conveyance of the wounded to hospitals; helping chaplains in their ministrations and influence for the good of the men under their care; and addressing soldiers and sailors, individually and collec- tively, in explanation of the work of the Commission and its Dele- gates, and for their personal instruction and benefit, temporal and eternal. He is strictly enjoined, if with our forces when a battle is approach- ing, passing or passed, to abstain from reporting anything on the subject not authorized by the commanding officer, and in general strictly to observe all Army and Navy regulations, and abstain from casting reflections upon the authorities, military, medical and clerical. All possible facilities and all due courtesies are asked for him, in the proper pursuance of any or all of these duties. Chairman U.S. Christian Commission. The following are the Instructions above referred to, and were furnished with each commission: — INSTRUCTIONS TO DELEGATES. ABOUT ENTERING UPON THE WORK. Prior to entering upon the work of the Commission, each Delegate is required to sign the following pledge upon the third page of his commission, with the conditions of which he is expected strictly to comply: — "I agree and pledge myself, in accepting this commission, to fob DELEGATES. 543 low tin' instructions given with it, to go to the field to which I may be sent, take the position which the Agent shall assign to me, con- tinue in the work not less than six weeks, unless sooner released hy special permission of the Agent or one of the General Officers of the Commission, ami to make a lull report of my work at the close of my term of service." Upon the back of the commission are blanks for the Agents of the Commission to fill; one showing the time the Delegate reported for duty, and the other the time and reason of his close of labor. When the Delegate reaches his held, he will present his commission to the A.gent, and have the first blank tilled, ami before leaving will have the second one filled. The first thing, on arriving in the field to which they are sent. Delegates will report for duty to the General Field Agent, who will assign them their stations. The Field Agent will see that the Delegates are supplied with whatever is needed for distribution amongst the soldiers, and for their own subsistence. Whenever a Delegate assumes independence of the Field Agent, and goes to anv part of the field to which hi' is not assigned or directed, or visits about from one part to another, confusion is created, anil his services are lost, or worse than lost, to the Commission. On the other hand, the Delegate, when assigned to his station, should not fail of employing most prayerfully all his own ingenuity, energy, and enterprise in carrying on and extending the work. DUTIES <)!■' DICLEGATES. The various duties of Delegates from the United States Christian Commission to The Field, Tin litis], it, il, and The Battle- Ground, may be summarily stated as follows: — Visiting hospitals, camps, and battle-fields for the instruction, supply, encouragement, and relief of the men of our army, accord- ing to their various circumstances ; Distributing stores, where needed, in hospitals and camps ; Circulating good publications amongst our soldiers and sailors; Aiding chaplains in their ministrations and influence for the spiritual and temporal welfare of the men under their care; 544 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Encouraging special and stated meetings for prayer amongst the men in the field and in the hospital ; Encouraging soldiers and sailors to communicate freely and fre- quently with their friends, aiding them to do it, and, if need be, writing for them, especially when they are sick or wounded ; Addressing the men personally and collectively, to encourage them in every right way, discourage every vice, give them informa- tion from the people and from home, explain the work of the Com- mission in their behalf, cheer them to duty, and, above all, persuade them to become reconciled to God through the blood of His Son, if they have not already clone so, and if they have, then to be strong m the Lord, resolute for duty, earnest and constant in prayer, and fervent in spirit, serving the Lord ; In aiding the surgeons on the battle-field in the kind care and removal of the wounded, giving them food and drink, and every- thing needed to mitigate suffering and aid recovery, or, if dying, point them with prayer to Jesus, and give them Christian burial. In short, striving to do all that man can do to meet the wants of brethren for from home and kiudred. Glancing at these several duties, it will be seen that they imply not only three separate fields, but three classes of Delegates, each having duties distinct, and each requiring specific instruction. I. — DELEGATES TO THE FIELD. In all cases where wisely practicable, the Delegate to the field will be stationed, by the General Field Agent, somewhere in the army where he will have subsistence for himself and supplies for distribution furnished him, and where he may conduct or assist in religious services, see and instruct those who may call, and from which he may go forth from time to time to do good, as he may find opportunity. Regiments having chaplains should be supplied through them, and all services or meetings in such regiments should be under direction or by invitation of their chaplains. A chaplain's regiment is his peculiar parish, and there should be no intrusion upon it ; but, on the contrary, his authority and influence should be strengthened as much as possible. The Commission regards the aid and supply of chaplains, at their DELEGATES. 545 own request, as an important part of its work. Extreme instances may occur in which the oeglect, indifference, absence, or ungodliness of the chaplain may justify or require the Delegate to do what he can for the good df the men, independently of their chaplain; but these cases arc rare. The work of the United States Christian Commission comprises, besides the religious services, etc., at the stations, the supply of field hospitals with such clothing, bedding, and stores as their necessities require; the distribution of stores and publications to all in the camps, — officers and men; personal individual intercourse with them, to instruct, cheer, and win them to Christ, or to stir them up to greater faith and zeal and activity for Chrisl ; aiding and encourag- ing constanl correspondence with their friends, by giving them paper and envelopes, or, if need he, writing for them and mailing their letters, and tin-warding for them packages to their homes; securing the organization of religious societies, where practicable; encourag- ing meetings for prayer; aiding chaplains in their public services, and seeking opportunity to address regiments publicly and collec- tively ; addressing them as Delegates of the Commission and as ambassadors for Jesus; and doing whatever else good common sense and warm Christian sympathy and true patriotism may dictate for the temporal and spiritual benefit of the men in the field. To facilitate this work of the field, the Commission will, for the regular » rviee, furnish its Delegates, if needed, not only with stores, clothing, and publications for gratuitous distribution, but wagons and horses for their transportation from the various depots of these things to the camps where they arc to be distributed. But, in case of exigencies demanding it. brigadier or major-gene- rals, or other officers, may be requested to detail ambulances for temporary use; which they will readily do, if at all consistent with military necessities. For the accomplishment of this field work it is always desirable to see first the commanding officer of the regiment, brigade, division, or corps in which it is to be done, and explain it to him; and also see and explain to such other officers as may he convenient and expedient, especially colonels of regiments, chaplains, and surgeons. Officers should also lie politely remembered in the distribution to tli em of such things as they may specially need. CO 54(3 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Distribution to the men may be made in various ways, and should be so made as to have the things intended for them actually placed in. their hands. One plan for doing this is, with permission of the officers, to visit from tent to tent, so that each man may receive for himself such articles as can be given him. Care and discretion must be exercised, to avoid inequality in dis- tribution, lest the least modest should receive the most. Occasions for addresses may be sought or accepted at the times of regular service, or at the close of a dress parade, or by having regi- ments assembled by order of their commander, at any time, for the purpose. Addresses should always be brief, kind, tender, breathing of home, earnest and affectionate for the men, and fervent for Christ. No men in the world listen with deeper interest than our brave soldiers to living words of truth ; none are moved more powerfully by generous and noble sentiments ; none more hopeful for the power of the gospel and the labor of the servant of Christ ; but they cannot be impressed or moved by abstractions or dry anil dull discussions. Like powder, they are easily fired by the living spark, yet they can- not be moved by all the dead ashes and coals that can be heaped upon them. II. — DELEGATES TO THE HOSPITALS. The United States Christian Commission sends men to work in the hospitals, as volunteer assistants of chaplains, at the chaplain's re- quest, or to act as volunteer chaplains in such hospitals as have not had chaplains appointed for them by the government, — not to work in hospitals which have chaplains, except when requested to do it. The Delegate to the hospital having a chaplain should therefore report himself first to the chaplain, as ready to assist him, and follow his instructions and counsels. He should also report himself to the medical director of the post, and to the surgeon in charge and his assistants, and work under their approbation. No delicacy, medi- cine, or stimulant should ever be given, especially to the sick or wounded in the hospitals, without the approbation of a surgeon ; and in all matters at all influencing the recovery of patients the surgeon's instructions should be sought and implicitly followed. DELEGATES. . r )47 Free and frequent distribution of g 1 reading-matter in the hos- pitals; the establishment of stated and frequent meetings for prayer ami conference; the occasional reading of the Scriptures, with sing- ing and prayer, and exhortation, in such wards especially as arc occupied by those unable to go out to the stated meetings, though not so ill as to be injured by such service; together with personal con- versation and prayer with individuals, arc the chief means by which the Delegate can benefit the men of the hospital. And in all this it i.- highly desirable not only to secure the approval, hut also tin' aid, of the surgeons who are willing to render it. For their temporal welfare and comfort, the distribution of clothing, when needed, aiding the men with paper, envelopes and stamps to write to their friends, and writing for them, in cases re- quiring it, and getting or doing anything whatever which may benefit them, are chief amongst the ways to be embraced by the Delegate. III. — DELEGATES TO THE BATTLE-GROUND. Difficulties and discouragements are sure to meet those who attempt to reach any field where a battle is raging, or where a battle has jusl been fought. But no difficulty, however great, no obstacle, however formidable, short of impossibles and impassibles, should stop any Delegate of the Commission this side of the ground where the wounded may die for want of the aid he can render them. If the battle-field have fallen into the hands of the enemy, it may, indeed, be inaccessible; but if it be in the hands of our own army, his feet can carry him there, if all oilier means of conveyance should fail him. Go On f heshould, however weary the way. great the alarm, or many there may be turning back or dissuading him from going on. His accoutrements should be a badge, a blanket, and strap; a haversack containing a towel ami soap, crackers and dried beef, and other stores, for his own use, and to give to the wounded ; a bucket to carry water or coffee in, and a cup to serve it out to the wounded : stimulants, with beef tea in cakes, etc.; a -mall lantern, candle- and matches for night work; and a small Bible, to use with the dying and in burying the dead. A warm undershirt, and a woollen shirt over it, strong plain clothing, strong easy shoes or bunts, with a cap or soft hat, make the best personal outfit. 548 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. GENERAL SUGGESTIONS. Delegates receive no pay for their services, but their expenses are borne l>y the Commission. Money for expenses, if need be, is advanced, and the Commission lias subsistence arrangements for delegates at all stations made by held agents. Three classes of talent and adaptation are required in the Delegate Work, — Preaching, Business, and Working. The enlistment of min- isters; who can command audience in the open air, of rank and file, is of first importance. Next, perhaps, and quite as indispensable, is it to secure those who have a knowledge of the world, experience in business, and ability in affairs. Scarcely less in value are the services of those who are adapted to interest and benefit others in social meet- ings and personal intercourse. Four things are indispensable in all, — piety and patriotism, good common sense and energy. Men who do not succeed elsewhere should never be sent to the army, for they will surely tail. None should be accepted who desire to visit the army, or a battle- field, for any purpose whatever aside from the work of the Commis- sion. No matter what the position or ability of the man may lie, or how worthy the object he has in view, if he does not wish to put him- self under the direction of the Commission and its field agents, and make it his paramount business to do the proper work of the Com- mission, he should not be sent as a Delegate. It is right and proper to aid all worthy men in worthy objects, by letters or otherwise; but the name and facilities of the Commission are sacred to the purposes ut' its organization, and cannot be lent to any one for any private purpose. He cannot be commissioned. That such a person is willing to pay his own expenses to the field, and on it, does not alter the case. Even it' he were by contribution to add largely to the means of the Commission, besides paying his own expenses, it would be giving the name and aid of the Commission in getting passes for private ends under color of a sacred public purpose. Delegates, when enlisted, should be instructed specially to report themselves on the field to the field agent, and put themselves under his direction, and should stand pledged to do it. The Commission i> greatly injured whenever Delegates refuse to comply with our regu- lations and instructions, and perhaps most of all by those who visit DELEGATES. 549 (ke various points of interest as self-appointed inspectors or ns euriosity- seekers, instead of entering heartily into the work at such points as may be assigned to i hern. As the C. s. Christian Commission aims to appoint Christian gen- tlemen as Delegates, any suggestions about personal deportment maj be superfluous. They understand perfectly well that their work is that of aiding others, not dictating to them. Officers are supreme in the field, and surgeons in the hospital and on the battle-ground. All others i ting to their aid are present duly by sufferance, and are sub- ordinate, not in authority, and should hold themselves subject to orders, and place themselves under orders, and then do with their might whatever work their hands find to do, commending themselves to God and their own consciences, and to officers and surgeons, by the wisdom, energy and efficiency of their service, and by their gen- tlemanly Christian courtesy to all. Each one is provided with a pocket memorandum-book and pencil, and should use them freely in noting facts, names, incidents, dates and every thing of interest. Also, with paper, pen, ink, envelopes and stamps tin- his own use, as well as to give to those who need them. He should report his work often to the office of the Commission, with facts and incidents for publication; and immediately on Ids return from the work he should report the fact to this office, ' in person or by letter, in Order that the proper record may be made on the books of the Commission. A blank form, entitled "Delegate's Discharge," is furnished to each Delegate with his commission. This blank should he carefully and faithfully filled out. The Delegate and agent will co-operate to this end. That it he properly filled and returned, either in person or by mail, to the office when' the commission was received, will he the required condition of settlement for the Delegate's expenses. All faithful chaplains should he sought out and aided as far as possible, ami informed that, by written application to the nearest oilier of the Commission, aid of almost any kind for their work could he obtained and sent to them free of expense. Success in the work, whether in camp, the hospital, or on the battle- field, will depend, under the blessing of God, very much upon the faithfulness with which the Delegate uses his unparalleled opportu- 1 Blanki to, bav< rsacks, >tr:ips, badges, etc., to be returned to die nearest office of tlie ( Commission. 550 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. nity of personal conversation, and brings home the gospel directly, wisely, kindly to the hearts and consciences of the soldiers he meets, wherever he meets them. A heroism not inferior to that which charges to the cannon's mouth, to capture the battery, is required on the part of those who would conquer under the banner of the cross and take captives for Jesus. And finally, this whole work, in any and every department, should be pushed with Christ-like earnestness. "Work while it is day," the words of Jesus when about to open the eyes of the blind man found by the wayside; or those other words of his childhood, characteristic of his whole life, " Wist ye not that I must be about my Father's busi- ness?" should be our watchwords. The wounded and sick in the hospital will soon pass away to the army, or the home, or the judg- 1111 lit, — the living in the camp of to-day may to-morrow be hastened away to the field of carnage. What we do must be done quickly; even so let us do. Amen. THE DELEGATE AT HOME. The Christian Commission does not rely upon a paid collecting agency to raise the large sums needful for its work. In this, as in the field department, the voluntary services of the Delegates have been cheerfully tendered, and have proved effective. Every Dele- gate is requested to ask at the office, where he hands in his equip- ment, tor a bundle of publications and collecting cards ; and on his return home, to state the things his eyes have seen and his ears have heard to his neighbors, and give them opportunity to offer their con- tributions, remitting them to the most convenient Branch, or to the Central Office; and to furnish the local papers with brief graphic details and incidents of his work. By order of the U. S. Christian Commission. GEO. H. STUART, Chairman. rini.AHEi.PHiA, September 15. 1864. The Delegate system was the distinction and the strength of the Christian Commission. Whatever was peculiar in its operations, as compared with other socie- ties, grew out of this system, and whatever of effi- DELEGATES. 551 ciency the Commission attained musi be referred mainly in the labors of these volunteer Delegates and the manner in which their labors were directed. The work of the Delegates has been so frequently spoken of in the course of these Annals that no ex- tended statement of its character is requisite here. The uecessity and value of such work are obvious at a glance. It implies no criticism or complaint of the government to say thai many lives were saved, much suffering re- lieved, and much comfort secured by the presence and labors in the army of the Commission's volunteer Dele- gates. The government sought to give effect to the desire of the nation that the army should he well cared lor, hut the government at the outset of the war was ignoranl of the best methods of securing this end. Ele- vation to official position did not at once give the requi- site knowledge and skill for fulfilling its duties; and hence the civilian, who had simply the common experi- ence of practical life, was often little if any inferior to the medical or military officer in the unforseen emergen- cies of the early campaigns. And frequently these emer- . gencies, of constant occurrence, and yet occurring at times and under conditions that defied calculation, sud- denly devolved an extra amount of labor upon the sur- geons and chaplains, that could not lie provided for in the regular appointment of these officers without making the number so large as to encumber and otherwise weaken the army. Oftentimes also the movements of the army were such as to demand the temporary neglect at least of the sick and wounded by those whose ordinary ser- vice was for their welfare. A- illustrating some of these cases, a few facts may be 552 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. cited from the operations of the Commission. When the first delegation went to the army, in May, 1802, they reported themselves, unheralded and unknown, to the Medical Director at Fortress Monroe. They found work immediately. A loaded hospital transport was at the wharf, with three hundred sick and wounded, ready to start for some Northern city, and nurses were greatly needed. Similar assistance was called for among the inmates of the hospitals at the Fortress, and the still greater number at Yorktown. The Delegates showed themselves willing and apt in their new duties, ready for whatever service was most urgent, however unusual or laborious it might be, endeavoring to help in every way possible and careful not to hinder. They soon gained the confidence of the medical officers and of the men, and these first labors became the type of all that woe; subsequently performed by the Commission. At Gettysburg, in 1803, the army was hurried on after the retreating rebels, another engagement being anticipated before they recrossed the Potomac. Every available man was required for this movement. Of necessity the thousands of wounded were left at Gettys- burg, with inadequate provision for their care. It is impossible to estimate the suffering and loss of life that must have ensued had it not been for the extra-govern- mental relief afforded, — relief which it was beyond the power of the government to bestow. The citizens were eager to share everything they possessed with those who had defended them at such sacrifice, and the Commission, adding its own stores and co-operating with other socie- ties, could use its multitude of Delegates in applying the means of relief in the most direct and economical DELEGATES. 553 manner. Those who were most competent to form an opinion confirmed this view of the case by their official testimony. Besides the statements of soldiers and their olficers, and the regimental and hospital surgeons, the Medical Inspector of the Army (Dr. John M. Cuyler) wrote to the Chairman of the Commission, — "The aid afforded us by the Christian Commission has been im- mense. Your profuse generosity and indefatigable and kind attentions doubtless saved many lives and glad- dened the hearts of thousands." And the Surgeon- General, William A. Hammond, glancing at the peculiar features of the case, wrote, — " I beg that von will accept my most heartfelt thanks, for the devotion to the service of the sick and wounded soldiers of Gettysburg mani- fested by the Christian Commission and its agents. Owing to the military necessities of the occasion, the suffering would have been much greater than it was, lint for the aid afforded the medical officers by the benevolent individuals who came to their assistance." In the disastrous movement of the Army of the Potomac on Mine Run, in the last days of November, 18C>o, the timely presence of the Commission's Delegates prevented much suffering. The army had cut loose from its base, hoping to establish a new one, and no sup- plies were accessible except such as were carried in the march. After a skirmish, in which the advance corps was repulsed with severe loss, a general engagement was not ventured upon, and the army was compelled to find its way back to its previous encampment at Brandy Sta- tion, in vrery cold weather and over terrible roads. The casualties were mainly in the Third Corps. For several days the wounded, about six hundred in number, were 70 554 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. largely dependent upon the little band of Christian Commission Delegates, and their small stock of supplies, for subsistence and attention. The Surgeon-in-chief of the Second Brigade, Third Division, Third Corps, Dr. Charles E. Cady, wrote to the Chairman, — "The wagon of the Commission was constantly at the hospital in the field, and with the ambulance train during the retreat, and your agents seemed indefatigable in dispensing- necessary food, medicine, bandages, stimulants, etc., to our wounded and sick ; audi know that, through their enterprise and humanity, a great amount of suffering was alleviated. For six days and nights your agents were constantly employed in their work of Christian mercy, — six bitter cold days and nights did they labor without cessation." There was a need of similar service, and it was similarly rendered, in most of the engage- ments of the armies East and West, after the Commis- sion began its active oj)erations. Another large class of cases which required extra- governmental aid was where the soldiers became sepa- rated from their regiments. Under such circumstances the soldier was shut off to a great extent from the provisions of government, although there might be abundance near at hand. And necessarily so. In mili- tary regulations, where subordination and responsibility are essential to efficiency and safety, the simple word of a soldier as to his wants could gain no attention. He must j>resent the requisition or order of the proper officer. Without this he must be neglected, even if he should die from the neglect. Otherwise the bonds of responsibility would be broken, discretion and not au- thority would become the law of the service, and the DELEGATES. 555 army would be hopelessly demoralized. And there seems to be no sale medium between the most rigorous enforcement of these regulations and their entire aban- donment. Everybody must be held to strict account for his movements, or nobody can be. What was popularly called "red tape," although at times seemingly cruel, and at times also applied with unnecessary rigor to those who were not connected with the military establishment, was the salvation of our army. The only immediate object of an army's existence is the destruction of its enemy, and whatever interferes with this must he pro- hibited. Better that many who are in exceptional cir- cumstances should perish than that discipline should he destroyed. But these excejriional cases, in armies so im- mense, and covering such a vast territory, were num- bered by hundreds of thousands. Companies or squads of men sent (Hit on special service, disabled men who tell behind ill the march, furloughed men as they were going to or from their homes, 1 furnish familiar exani- 1 The following incident was published in the Philadelphia Press of Sep- tember 16, 1864, — where it first came to the knowledge of the Commission: — "About three weeks ami tlie writer was passenger on a West-bound express train of the Pennsylvania Central. Among the many passengers was a very sick soldier and his devoted wife. Sin- had heen watching with him for weeks in a hospital near Washington City; and, in their anxiety to get home, they had started t on. lie seemed to -ink with exhaustion, until, unable to sit alone, he reclined upon his wife's shoulder. The wife wept, and those near he]- could scarcely retrain from tears as they looked upon the pale, emaciated Boldier and his care-worn wife. Presently a young, delicate-looking man approached, wearing upon his left breast the badge of the Christian Commis- sion. He entered into conversation with the soldier's wife, and soon manifested a deep interest in her case and that of her sick husband. lie aided in support- ing [lie weak man, greatly to the relief of the wile. Vfler going a few miles, at a stopping-place the Delegate left the ear a moment, and returned with a good supply of delicacies, such as would refresh the sick man and his worn-out companion, lie paid constant attention to the two, until, arriving at Pittsburg, 556 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. j>les. These men were in frequent need of assistance, — as clothing, food, lodging, and nursing. Their wants could be properly met only by a voluntary association, which, while not interfering with army regulations, could investigate and relieve each case upon its own merits, and so establish no precedent for government nor embarrass its action. An apt illustration, one among many, is given in the operations of the < '< mi mis- sion at Cairo. That post was the gateway to the armies in the South. Multitudes of soldiers were continually passing to and fro. Many, on their way home, were destitute of everything except transportation. Without some extra-governmental aid they must have suffered. The Delegates of the Commission were there, to hunt up, investigate, and relieve the cases of need. The fol- lowing is from the report of the agent at Cairo, Mr. J. D. AYyekoff, for a single month : — In the month of May, 1865, 93 days' labor have been bestowed upon this field. The Delegates have made 65 visits to the hospitals, transports, gunboats, and regiments here; preached 1'2 limes, and attended 13 prayer-meetings outside the rooms. 32 letters have been written for those who could not write ; 89 have received special aid for their poor crippled bodies; and 165 have been directed person- ally to the Great Physician, who can heal their crippled souls. Of lie could go no farther with them. He left the car as soon as it stopped, but soon returned, handing the lady checks for her baggage, which he had re- cheeked to her order. Then lie obtained help and carried the sick soldier ten- derly tn another train, and had the two comfortably prepared fur their journey farther. lie then offered the hide some money, which she politely declined, as nut in need of it. The Delegate of the Commission then took leave of the sick soldier and his wife, and both wept tears of gratitude, uttering their 'God bless you and the Christian Commission you represent.' I never before knew much of the Commission, nor did much for it. Hereafter I shall. " A Lady Passenger." DELEGATES. •>■>/ tbe 3,075 letters written in the rooms, 1,8*0 were stamped by the Christiao Commission. We have distributed 736 Testaments, Ui'27 hymn-books, 6,225 soldiers' books, 8,380 pages tracts, 14,805 religious and secular papers, 1.S4 quires of paper, and 10,350 envelopes. We have likew tse given ou( 4:20 shirts, 1:10 pairs drawers, 653 pairs socks, 95 housi wives, ] 24 napkins, 75 towels, 25 arm-slings, 50 bottles cordial and dysentery-cure, and 76 miscellaneous articles and packages; be- sides 1,538 meal-tickets to 917 soldiers and sailors, who represented 21 different States. The daily prayer-meetings were full of interest, and usually well attended, and in them the Master gave us many precious visits. I shall never forget the month of May, with its thousands of sick and wounded soldiers. It was the first great wave of the homeward title. Southern hospitals were emptied. The doors of prisons viler than the world ever shuddered at before were thrown open. The worn and scarred heroes of Forts Spanish and Blakely, at Mobile, of Selma, and that terrible march through Florida swamps to the defences of Mobile, were released as speedily as possible, scarcely waiting for the formalities of martial law, and all, — with what was left of limb and life, — turned homewards, to lie on the decks of infested steamers, and ride in the heated and dusty ears, without a cent of money, and nothing to eat but uncooked rations. Noble, uncomplaining heroes! Their work is done, and their country will bless them for it. Every loyal home circle will build its grateful monumental altar, and gathering around it, — the fathers and the children and the children's children. — with tears and benedictions, they will bless our "brave hoys in blue." May God bless them too! This aspect of the Commission's work, as a voluntary relief agency, through the ministrations of its Delegates, is clearly presented by Rev. E. P. Smith, in a commu- nication to Mr. Stuart, dated February 13, ISO"), as follows: — It is possible that the observation of one of your agents, more than two years in the field where your stores have been distributed directly to the soldiers, may be of service to you in forming your own estimate, and helping others to appreciate the need of volunteer aid to soldiers 558 ANNALS OF THE C'HEISTIAN COMMISSION. outside the military channels. It is not true that such outside aid is indispensable to the prosecution of the war. The history of* the endurance and privations of our soldiers has shown that nothing is absolutely essential. They can march barefooted, go on quarter rations, lie days and nights in their wounds and blood when they fall, uneared for, and still the campaigns go on. They endure it and keep in the ranks, or they fall out and go to the hospital, disabled for life, or they die, and recruits take their place in the ranks, and the fight goes on. The exact statement is, not that volunteer aid is essen- tial to our army, but that, without interrupting army movements, it saves a vast amount of individual suffering and many lives. The argument is not, that the rebellion could not be conquered without it, but that with it we can bring untold relief to men who would otherwise suffer and die as the natural result of military hardships and privations. Nor does this arise from any poverty in government supplies, or indifference to the comfort of the soldiers. It comes from the exi- gencies of military operations. There is no arm of the service so essential to its very life as " red tape." Officials must be held to strict accountability in the use of government property, and no discretion- ary power granted. A quartermaster cannot issue a sheet or a blanket to a man because he is freezing, nor a commissary give rations to a man simply because he has not had food for forty-eight hours. The official must have a voucher, and the shiver and hunger of a soldier will not make one. Here is a man, for instance (and I cite this as one in a thousand like it, in everything essential for the illustration, that have come under my own eye), in the Zollicoffer Barracks at Nashville. He has just come from the hospital. You see at a glance that he is only a convalescent. You know that, by a general order, the hospitals have just been cleared to make room for freshly-arrived men. This man, among others, has been sent away in the exigency. He lost his knapsack when he was carried from the field to the hospital, and on his partial recovery he comes to these cold barracks without bed, or blanket, or overcoat, and to-morrow he is to go out into the fortifica- tions on garrison duty, while the able-bodied men join in the chase for Hood. There are ten thousand shirts and blankets at the quarter- master's, within a block of the barracks, but he cannot draw one. DELEGATES. 559 There is no possibility for thai soldier to get a shirt or a blankel till lie shall reach his regiment. But that is fifty miles away, and hurrying on still farther. The soldier is in no condition to join them, and would die in the attempt. The government could not provide for such an emergency without giving an official discretionary power tn issue as needy cases may arise, ami that would give an open door tn an unlimited corruption. I have a quilt on hand, sent by some aid society, and a blanket, and give at once, just as you would do in Philadelphia after yen have satisfied yourself of the need of a sufferer. Without that personal aid the convalescent would have gone back to the hospital in two days, and with a relapse of his fever or diarrhoea, and perhaps a few days would have found his name mi the record of the soldiers' cemetery. These cases are occurring all along the line. They turn up at all our stations, sometimes by the dozen ami hun- dred in a day. In the time of battle the volunteer assistant fills a much more im- portant gap in supplies for the comfort of the men. The hospital wagon, which contains the medical stores, instruments, hospital furniture, and supplies of a brigade or division of men, is drawn by four horses, and cannot safely take on more than 1,500 or 2,000 pounds, often not over 1,200. That division is liable to be drawn into a severe fight, like that of Hatcher's Run last week, and may lose in wounded, in a few hours, 500 or 1,000 men. There is no pos- sible method by which the division hospital can be prepared for such an emergency, without being heavily laden with baggage wagons, such as would greatly encumber army movements. The result inevitably is, that those men are brought in, sometimes after lying all night on the field, and receive such rations as can be found in the knapsacks of the soldiers. There is nothing in which to make a supply of coffee or soup, even if the materials were at hand. There are not shirts or socks to take the place of those soaked in blood or cut from mangled limbs. The men must wait until they can be taken back from this flying hospital ami put in comfortable quarters, and lie nursed in the regular way, where all issues to them can lie per- fectly vouched for. Oftentimes they must In- carried, hungry and faint, to wait their time on the operating table. Just here comes our supply wagon, which is foot-loose, and can go from one division to another, wherever the call is, ami if necessary all the wagonswe have 500 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. iii the army can be brought up, and all the force of a Hundred Dele- gates given to that division. The government cannot do that, with- out having just such men and a dozen hospital wagons to follow with each army division, and then it will be obliged to violate a funda- mental rule and give discretionary power to those in charge of stores. In the fight before Nashville, at five of the flying hospitals, the men were all fed by the Commission from two to three and four days. There was no other provision for them, except the rations which the wounded men brought from the battle-field in their haversacks, not enough for one meal even of that sort of food. A hospital cannot purchase any delicacies until a hospital fund is accumulated through the commutation of rations, and that fund is not available till the cud of the first month. Many of the hospitals in the field are temporary, and may be broken up before the proceeds from a fund are realized. In such cases every can id' milk or fruit given by us is so much extra to their means of comfort. Without some such outside aid they could have had nothing of the kind. I give these instances to show that with stores in hand, and a de- sire to help others, we cannot but save distress of the severest kind, and very many lives otherwise lost to friends and country. It is my sober conviction that, with comparatively slight, discount, tin- relief- stores sent to the field are just so much added to the physical com- fort of men who, at the best, suffer beyond anything that friends at home can be made to believe, and very often it is a relief applied at the point where life and deatli are in the scale for decision. The manner in which the Commission grew into this position of a voluntary Christian relief agency is thus described in the closing Annual Report: — The Commission felt at the first that the work undertaken was unique. Experience in other benevolent organizations could furnish little guide here, and consequently they were obliged to begin the field work with no prescribed plan or method, except that it should be Christian, and in accordance with Christian precept should do good to all as there was opportunity, by ministering to the want of every soldier and sailor that could be relieved. The idea id' direct relief, of sending men to distribute the gifts from home in person to the ' DELEGATES. 561 suffering men, soon appears prominent. Then the volunteer system of un|>;iiil labor, for a term not less than six weeks, is adopted, first for its economy, hut is afterwards continued for its efficiency and adaptation to the peculiarity of the work. It was Pound l>v experience that nothing was more needed by the soldier, in his long absence from home, than these fresh invoices of home-feeling, — the piety and solicitude of the sanctuary and fireside brought to the field by these frequent changes of Delegates; and it was soon found that friends at home desired nothing so much as the fresh, reliable pictures, by those returned laborers, of a soldier's trials, and his gratitude and readiness to receive religious truth. There was a manifest disadvantage in this constant introduction of new workers to the field, but it was more than compensated by the fact that they were '" "'• Their freshness in strength and zeal and enthusiasm, and especially lit. sympathy for the suffering, more than duplicated their power. Our experience in the field has justified the three distinguishing characteristics of the labor of the Christian Commission as a relief agency for the army, viz., that it should be direct, voluntary, and Christian. The organization of our field labor, under the direction of the field agents, grew from first to last into compactness and system, — but always around these three characteristics of the relief undertaken, that it should be personal, without pay, and Christian. A permanent general field agent in each army, with his assistants, one or two in each army corps, have been sufficient to give direction and control to all the Delegates who volunteered their services for the term of six weeks. The character of the Delegates, for the most part earnest, responsible men, fresh in strength and zeal, coming out at a sacrifice, and with a corresponding mind to work, made the duty of directing so many, even in untried labor, comparatively easy. Thus, on an average, through the permanent services of each agent, we have made available volunteer labor equivalent to the con- tinuous services of eight men; and from the five thousand volunteers thus directed we have secured the choicest talent anil piety of the land, and in many instances such services as could have been secured on no other plan. The amount of unpaid labor thus brought to the army is equivalent to the labor of one man for more than five hundred vears. 71* 502 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. The second characteristic of the relief, personality, has also justh fied itself. It is better to go to a man in trouble than to send to him. The people could not go, nor could the family friends. The Delegates of the Commission were the family representatives. That spirit was constantly inculcated, that the Delegate was the father or brother of every soldier he met, and what the absent one would do, if in his place, that he was to do; and it has been extremely gratify- ing to see how generally and thoroughly this feeling has prevailed among the Delegates, and how readily it has been detected by the soldiers, until the badge of the Commission became an invitation to the soldier to tell all his troubles even to a stranger, and oftentimes to commit his watch and purse to that stranger's care without taking a receipt or asking his name. It was this personal relief that was needed to supplement provision made by the government for the wants of a great army. It was not that the government could not afford the expense of comforts and delicacies, but because it could not give the personal attention necessary to individual cases. Regu- lations provide abundantly for the army as a whole. But in a million of men, amid the shifting emergencies of campaigns, there will be exceptional eases of so large a variety that no regulation can provide for all. It is for these exceptional cases that army relief is needed, and they are to be relieved, not according to classified rules. Their wants and conditions are so peculiar that classification is impossible, else the government would have given the relief. They can be reached only by the ministrations of a Mend giving himself personally to the work, and having within his reach the appropriate means. And it was to this personal relief that each Delegate was commissioned, in the name of the friends he repre- sented and whose tokens of love he bore to the camp and hospital. This absence of constraining rules, and consequent freedom of action by the Delegates, for cases where necessary military rule had made the suffering, gave the Commission its peculiar power. In any ques- tion of supply the Delegate was enjoined to see what the soldier needed, and then to see that he got it. Of the third characteristic little need be said. Piety is certainly no disqualification for disbursing public benefactions at discretion, and when in the nature of the disbursement no satisfactory vouchers can be given. The mode of bestowal will often double the value of I) K LEGATES. 563 the gift. Said a Wisconsin soldier in our rooms at Chattanooga, "These socks warm a fellow before he gets them on." How is that? "The way he gets them." Often have soldiers read on our hoard at Nashville, "If you are in trouble speak to any man with the badge, — he is looking for you," and wiped tears from eyes that have looked death in the face without a quiver. Other things being equal, a Christian is the better man to go to the suffering. True piety will give a gentler touch to the hand that washes a wound and ties :i bandage. It makes counsel more effective, and finds more readily the hidden channels of sympathy. It makes the agent or Delegate a better representative of home, — any home, Christian or not. To say this is not bigotry; it is loyalty to Christ and his truth. There are various ways in which the attempt might he made to estimate the labors and influence of the Commission's five thousand Delegates in the army. It might be said that their labors were equal to the con- tinuous labor of one man for more than five hundred years; that they distributed among more than two mil- lions of soldiers the contents of ninety-five thousand packages of stores and publications ; that these distribu- tions included nearly a million and a half of Scriptures, more than a million of hymn-books, more than eight millions of knapsack books, nearly three hundred thou- sand bound library books, nearly eight hundred thou- sand magazines and pamphlets, more than eighteen million copies of religious newspapers, aud more than thirty-nine million pages of tracts; it might be said that these men preached more than fifty-eight thousand sermons, held more than seventy-seven thousand prayer- meetings, and wrote more than ninety-two thousand soldiers' letters. And vet these vast figures, with the eminently Christian work which they represent, are but ' Fmirlli Annual Iiijurt, pp. \'.l 'J'J. 564 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. hints of the truth which they vainly endeavor to ex- press. The presence in the army of such a body of Christian men, — giving themselves day and night, with- out fee or reward, for the comfort and encouragement of the wounded, weary, and sick, — was itself an influence of incalculable power. One must bring before the mind the peculiar conditions of army life, — the idle monotony of the camp, the lonely weariness of the march, the excitement of battle, the pain and solitariness of the hospital, with no sound or sight or association of home, — in order to appreciate the good effected by the simple presence of these representatives of Christian homes and sanctuaries. When a soldier passed within army lines for the first time, his feelings were akin to the home-sickness of one who enters a foreign country. In addition to the perils of war, which compelled him to think that he might never return, he was no longer his own master. His going and coming must henceforth he at the bidding of another. It was inevitable that memories and longings should be awakened of whose power he himself had never dreamed, and it was an unspeakable relief for him to meet with some one, fresh from the scenes of peace, in citizen's dress, wearing a pleasant, home-like face, unconnected with official routine and authority, to whom he could unburden his feelings and from whom he could receive timely sympathy and counsel. It was the custom of the Commission, as far as consistent with the exigencies of the service, to send Delegates among the troops from their own communities. Thus soldiers were often cheered by the sight of their loved pastor, or some well-known Christian friend, or at least some one who was* familiar with their neighbor- DELEGATES. 565 IimmI. These visits at once opened the soldiers' hearts to deeds of kindness and words of Christian exhortation, and were sure to prepare the way for many inquiries after friends and many messages to be carried back to them. Very often such Delegates were "agents of exchange" between the soldiers and their homes, for letters, photo- graphs, and other mementos of mutual love. Many a man in hospital, sick rather in heart than in body, despondently refusing both medicine and food, lias rallied and recovered under the gentle words and minis- trations of some newly-arrived Christian Delegate. .Many a reckless soldier, surprised at his own wicked- ness, but unable to resist the influences which environed him, has been checked in his course, and won to Christ, by the kind assurances that loved ones at home were thinking of him and praying for him, and that they had sent to him these messages and messengers of their love. " We are very sorry, but we can do nothing for yon," said the Delegates to a man who had given them an account of his troubles. "I know you can do noth- ing," was his reply; "but I knew it would do me good to talk them over with you." Said a soldier, in visiting a ( Jommission station, "There is one thing we can always get from yon gentlemen, and that is sympathy." Said a poor and ignorant boy, dying in hospital, to an aged Delegate who was endeavoring to encourage him with Christ's promises, "Old man, your words will do me more good than the doctors will." Said Major-( ieneral Crittenden to Mr. Isaac Russell, of Louisville, " Tell the churches to send to the army, by Christian volun- teers, j'rrxh inroircs of liomr nUt/ion, and they will do more to conquer this rebellion than by reinforcing ns 566 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. with recruits." It has been frequently remarked by competent observers, that it is doubtful whether either the country or the army would have endured the pro- tracted trial and struggle of the war, had it not been for the moral and religious influence exerted at home and in the field through the Christian Commission. It is of course impossible to prove such a statement, nor is it designed to claim an undue importance for the Commission. It is only intended to suggest that the Commission, especially through the agency of its multi- tude of Delegates, was the channel of reciprocal influ- ences, between the soldiers and the people, by which both were morally elevated, encouraged, and sustained. For the Delegates were not simply representatives among the soldiers of the homes and churches far away; they became also among those churches and homes the representatives of the distant soldiers. They not only carried expressions of sympathy and substantial relief to the absent, but they returned, as has been said, with many mementos and expressions of reciprocal affection. It was something to assure the soldier that he was thought of and prayed for; it was much more oftentimes to hear the soldier, by his camp- fire, in the chapel tent, or in the ward of the hospital, pray for those who loved and prayed for him. If a rich tide of Christian feeling and beneficence set in toward the army, a still richer tide of responsive gratitude and devotion rolled hack over the nation. In truth, the nation and the army were one, — the soldiers were citi- zens in military dress and doing military duty, and the citizens were soldiers' assistants, working in person or by proxy wherever they could be most effective, — all DELEGATES. 567 laboring and Buffering for tin* same end and from the same motive, "that tins nation, under God, might have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people, by the people, and tor the people, might not perish from the earth." The Delegates of the Christian Commission did mneh to nourish and strengthen this unanimity of sentiment and activity. They went from all parts of the country into the army, and on their re- turn they told what they had seen and heard. They delivered as many sermons and addresses about the soldiers as they had previously delivered to them, and so there was everywhere diffused a common sentiment and a common purpose. The Christian pulpit had been an important agency in preparing the nation for the war, and it was equally influential in sustaining and guiding public feeling throughout the struggle. No careful historian can adequately explain the uprising, endu- rance, benevolence, and success of the American people in the great rebellion, without assigning a prominent place to that deep and widespread religious feeling of which the Delegates of the Christian Commission were at once the exponents and the agents. The work of the Commission was exclusively, in spirit and aim, a religious work. It is by this avowal, made .it the outset and always adhered to, that they wish to he estimated and judged. What was done for the bodily and intellectual welfare of the soldiers was the offspring of religious motives. Patriotism and philanthropy are prominent among Christian virtues, although feebler and less pure forms of them may exist apart from Chris- tianity. But above this, the Commission felt thai bhe soldiers were sinful, accountable, and immortal men 568 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. They felt that only the hlood of Christ can save the soul, ;iih1 that for the soldiers, as for all others, repentance toward God and faith toward the Lord Jesus Christ are essential to salvation. "Had there been no interest of the soldier demanding our sympathy but the welfare of his body, the Christian Commission would never have been formed. It stands before Christendom as a monu- ment of the faith of the American Church in the great doctrine of man's ruin, and the great fact of God's com- plete salvation. It is a testimony to all the earth, that Jesus Christ hath come into the world to save sinners ; that a man must be born again, or he cannot see the kingdom of God. It hath arisen that it may go down to the soldier, to tell him of his need of a Saviour; to tell him of his need of the renewing power of the Holy Spirit; to lead him to repent of his sins, trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, and find peace, comfort, joy, and hope in believing." 1 Hence the requirement that the Delesrates of the Commission should be Christian men, — members in good standing of evangelical churches. 2 For they were, first of all, to remember the spiritual neces- sities of those to whom they ministered. They were to carry "home comforts to the homeless, friendly counsels to the friendless, and gospel messages to the Christless," — and this last department of their service was the highest. It was an important and religious duty to assist the 1 Rev. J. T. Duryea's Address at Christian Commission meeting, New York City, March 19, 1865. - It will readily be admitted that there wire among such church members many persons unsuitable for Christian Commission work, and thai many per- sons suitable for much of the work were not members of any church ; but tl"' Commission could not attempt to decide upon individual cases, and hence the above rule was the only one practicable under the circumstances. DELEGATES. 569 wounded, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and relieve the sick; but it was even more important that, while these Christian offices were being performed, the Christian disciple should be instructed and encouraged, and the sinner -led to his Saviour. Hence the arrangements for circulating religious literature in so many forms and in such large quantities, and for holding religious meetings with the utmost frequency and at every possible point. The gratuity of the Commission's services and bene- factions must not be overlooked in estimating the ele- ments of its strength and success. There could be no doubt in this ease of the duty and propriety of gratuitous benevolence. 1 Indeed, the feeling of the people was that they owed to the army all that could possibly be done for it, and that hence their benefactions were not so much a gift as a debt of love. The soldiers received these services in a like spirit, for they were the services of brothers and friends, and were as tree from the taint of mercenary considerations as the sweet courtesies of Ik ■. And so this entire charity was of that quality which is twice blessed. Said a modest German soldier, suffering from rheumatism, to a Delegate in Alexandria, " I should like a flannel shirt, sir; but I don't exactly like to he begging for it." "Begging for it!" was the reply ; "why, my dear sir, these things are QOl OUTS, hut //ours, and we are simply sent here to see thai you gel them." The poor fellow was almost cured of his rheumatism before he lefl the room. It gave the Commission greal 1 A living English writer, familiar with the difficulties which beset a wise administration of benevolence, says: - " I believe, « iih the whole might of my convictions, that for human creatures t" help one another freely, when thai love which is the bread of life is given together with the bread thai perishetli, Illinois both the giver and receiver, and can be degrading to hone." 72 ")70 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. advantage at every point, that their stores were free and their Delegates were laboring without pay. Subordinate officers were more prompt in their co-operation and the confidence of the soldiers was more readily secured. Said the forwarding agent of a military railroad to a Delegate, " Yon must be making a great deal of money in the army." "Why so?" "We forward a great many boxes for yon." "But we sell nothing; these boxes are the free gifts of the people at home, and are freely distributed by the Commission to every man that needs." "Is that the way yon do it? Whenever 1 can serve yon, let me know." And when the soldiers saw that the Delegates were ready to perform any needed service, however menial and laborious, although they were, for the most part, men unaccustomed to manual toil, — and the more earnest in their service because it was as free as the love which prompted it, — it is not strange that tin' most reluctant hearts were opened. 1 1 Rev. David Weston, who labored in the "Old Factory" n( Fredericksburg, in the Rpring cf 1864, when the city was full of wounded, gives this account of the method and effect of their working: — " In tin' early morning, filling our haversacks, pockets, and hands with medicines, delicacies of food, articles of clothing, writing-paper, envelopes, Testaments, and other religious books, pamphlets, papers, tracts, and whatever else we had found to be needful, we would hasten to our places of labor. First, we would do what we could for the comfort of the body, — washing and dressing the wounds, washing the faces, hands; and bodies, changing the clothing, giving medicine and food such as siek men need, changing the position, trying in every way to make the wounded heroes comfortable and cheerful. The surgeons and nurses welcomed us, and co-operated with us, for their work was hard, and their hospital stuns nearly exhausted, and for several days (hey shared with us (heir own rations, rather than sutler us t<> walk in the hot sun to (he Commission rooms, nearly a mile, for our dinner. After doing what we could for the comfort of the body, wi would bring in our hooks and tracts, and distribute to the wounded men, write letters for them to friends at home, talk to them of Jesus and of t heir own souls, read to them from the Bible, and pray with them. There was no difficulty in DELEGATES. 571 Many such instances have been given. Especially in their distinctive work of presenting the gospel, publicly and privately, the Delegates found their timely and gratuitous labors the best introduction. The man who, in an hour of extreme need, had been fed and nursed, was glad to talk with his benefactor about the wants of his soul and the provision for them in Jesus Christ. The Delegate could not well speak of the soul until he had eared for the suffering body, hut when that was done tlif soldiers uniformly expected and welcomed religious conversation. On taking the steamer at Fortress Monroe for Baltimore, late one evening, a Delegate found one of those pitiful cases which were not uncommon during the war. A soldier had been brought on hoard from the hospital, and was lying on the bare floor of the upper saloon. I lis wounded right arm, severely inflamed, was swollen to thrice its natural size, while the rest of his body was wasted to a skeleton from the long prostration that had followed his injury. He was in charge of a brother, who had watched with him at the hospital until he was weary and sick, and now approaching them, learning the feelings of their hearts, and impressing them with the importance of eternal things. They were ready and ever eager to hear. The fearful scenes they had witnessed, the dangers they had met, ili< sufferings tiny had endured, had softened and subdued them, ami already directi ■ ! the thoughts of many i" the interests of their souls. Many were near to death and felt the need of salvation. Besides iliis, all fell thai we had done them good. Thej could nol but respecl thai religion thai had prompted tin benevolence in which they owed mi much ; they could not but listen to us as we urged its claims upon them. I beard no sneer at religion, Christians, or the church. The comforts which they all enjoyed ha. I demonstrated to them that religion was nol all emptiness. The Spirit of God was there, impressing all these thoughts upon them, ami making ii easy ami pleasant work for us to labor for their souls. Often they would call, 01 end for us, to come and tall; with tin in." 572 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. they were endeavoring to get home, although unfit to travel, lest longer delay should render the attempt im- possible. The Delegate easily enlisted the assistance of others, procured a comfortable mattrass, placed the in- valid upon it, provided such things as were necessary and practicable, and then, taking his place as nurse and watcher, told the brother to give himself to rest and sleep until the boat reached Baltimore. It required neither much effort nor many words to commend the Divine Saviour and Friend to that lonely and listening boy, during the wakeful hours of the night. Tbe circumstances of their peculiar position among the soldiers made the Delegates watchful to use every opportunity for religious exhortation and instruction. Their Christian character and the special reason of their presence in the army were well known, and they were careful that the men should not be in doubt either of their motives or their errand. The officers were usually as ready to co-operate in the religious features of the work as in any other. Said a surgeon in the Wash- ington House Hospital, the largest in Hagerstown, to Rev. Mr. Hotchkin, " I have work here, in these severe surgical cases, to keep me busy the whole day; but I will stop, to give you time for worship, any hour you wish. It will be good for the men." And the Dele- gates showed tact and facility in making current inci- dents and occasions contribute to the end which they had most at heart, often with immediate and happy results. Mr. Hotchkin, on the occasion just referred to, spoke to his company of mangled hearers about "Christ, the Great Physician, whose exceeding excellence is that His services are of surest and highest avail when the DELEGATES. 573 .skill of the earthly physician utterly fails." "The next clay," says Mr. H., "in passing along the din- ing-room, I heard a call, 'Preacher! preacher!' I went to the bed from which it came, and said to the sufferer, 'My poor friend, how do you feel?' 'Oh, better, better,' said he; 'better, a great deal.' 'Do you feel like getting well ?' ' Oh, I do n't know about that ; but I have got the Doctor you told us about; he is my Doctor now; he has been with me all night; he is with me now, and I am better.' The sparkle of his eye and the glow of his face spoke all that he meant." Mr. Isaac Baker speaks of dressing the wounds of thirty men, and distributing food and clothing among them. One was lying with his eyes bandaged. " A shell had passed so close to his face as to deprive him of sight, the surgeon said, forever. I washed his eyes, and bound small wet pads upon them, and left him. The next morning I came around. He heard my voice, ran up to me and embraced me, saying that his eyes were nearly as good as ever. Then was the golden moment of my privilege in Christ. I asked him if the eyes of his faith had been enlightened, if he had yet seen Jesus. He was melted down, confessed his sins, and promised reform." Rev. Mr. Flint, in going one day among the prisoner's (Union soldiers) in the slave pen at Alexan- dria, Va., found most of them engaged in playing cards. He wished to gain their attention without offending them. After distributing his religious reading, coupled with personal conversation, among those not engaged at cards, he approached a company of players. "Perhaps you will take a game with me, this morning." "Oh yes, chaplain," was the reply, as they looked up suspiciously, 574 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. "we shotild -be glad to play with you" "But you will let me use my own cards." "Certainly." He opened a package of Scripture cards, each containing a verse, and began to distribute them. They were puzzled to know how they were to play with such cards. All who were not engaged in the game were now thoroughly interested to see how it would come out. The Delegate explained that each man should read his card and lay it down ; and the man who had the best card should be declared winner of the rest. The game proved highly entertaining, and the men said they would keep it up, for it was much better than the other kind. At an oj>portune moment Mr. Flint said, " We have had a pleasant time together, men ; now I wish to pray with you, and as many as wish me to do so will please hold up the hand." Every hand was lifted, and then every knee was bowed upon the brick floor; and the slave-pen prison became a house of God, — as perchance it had been many times before, when filled with the human chattels of the slave-driver. The reflex influence of this work upon the Delegates themselves was very great. First of all, they were thrown upon their own resources in the army, compelled to "rough it" as the soldiers did, and learned to be comfortable and cheerful with poor fare and rude accom- modations. Their ingenuity and their self-reliance were developed. A Delegate who was among the wounded at Fredericksburg, in the spring of 1864, says, " The house and tents of the Commission were already filled with Delegates. I was obliged to build my own sleeping-room, which I did by tipping over two large boxes in the garden, one for my head and one for my DELEGATES. 575 feet, laying boards between them and stretching some matting over them. My house did very well, except in rain storms, when it was somewhat leaky. I lodged there for a week." Again, the mingling of so many Christian men of every denomination was a pleasant and striking proof of the essential identity of the reli- gion they professed and taught. It was a practical Christian union and co-operation on a large scale, per- haps in the only way that such union is now possible, — that is, in the doing of some great Christian work in whose importance and practicability all are agreed. Often in a company of Delegates there were as many Christian denominations represented as there were men ; yet they came together without knowing or caring to know their several distinctive names. They were unani- mous in their prayers, their aims, their labors; and that was sufficient for the time being, — ecclesiastial relations, by no means unimportant in themselves, were unimpor- tant there. That Christianity in its simplest form, thus daily manifested in the lives and labors of these devoted men, should favorably and deeply impress the thousands who were witnesses of their religious zeal and recipients of their bounty, might be certainly anticipated. That such was the result has been many times illustrated by the unquestioning confidence of the soldiers in the Delegates, and by the multitudes which they were per- mitted to lead to Christ. And still further, the Dele- gates received for themselves an intellectual and spiritual quickening that remained as a permanent element of their future efficiency. There was such an eagerness for their ministry on the part of the soldiers, and such necessity for promptness and directness in all their 57G ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. religious intercourse with them, that many were con- firmed in the purpose to pursue, as far as practicable, the same methods in their work at home. Few Dele- gates returned from the field without expressing grati- tude for the privilege of having been in the service. One says, " The fulness of the blessing flows back into one's own heart. My people were greatly benefited by my absence; and if they had not been, I think I have been enough better man for going to make it policy for them to send me again." Says another, who had been a successful pastor at home and a successful missionary in India, and who returned from the army stricken with mortal sickness from undue exertion (Rev. A. H. Dan- forth), "Yesterday I had a glorious time; preached four times, 1 — twice inside the tent and twice outside ; I never preached to such hungry people ; I have the best of material to work upon ; and I cannot but feel that I am doing more good than I ever was in my whole life before." Such expressions as these are frequent : " In my ministry of twenty years, I have had no such period of active and blessed work." " I call upon my soul and all that is within me to bless the Lord, for permitting me to participate in this noble work." Says Mr. Duryea, speaking of an army audience, " Never shall I forget the look of those earnest eyes and the devouring intensity of those eager countenances. Oh, it was easy to preach. If you will give us in New York such lis- tening, w r e will preach here before you in your sanc- tuaries as we are enabled to preach in the army. With such an audience as that you need only ask God's bless- 1 One day, at Chattanooga, there were fifty-seven religious services conducted by ten Delegates ; but such instances were not uncommon. DELEGATES. 577 ing, then open your mouth and let the words gush out." "It was a new thing, — an experience netfer to he for- gotten; an experience that will inspire many a heart, and strengthen the courage of many a Christian man. to do thai sort of preaching at home which clinches the nail and makes it stand fast in a.sure place/' It is nut to lie thought that the Christian Commission claims for its Delegates any special excellence or effi- ciency, as compared with the thousands of their brethren who wcic not able to visit the army. The Commission was, as has been said so many times, a representative body, and showed by a conspicuous example the practi- cal and energetic piety which prevails in the ministry and membership of the American churches. Those who were providentially the responsible managers of the Commission were as much surprised, humbled, and gratified l>y the results which God accomplished through it as can lie any one who reads these Annals. The Dele- gates had many encouragements and helps in their work, which were the essential conditions of their suc- cess. The patriotic benevolence and activity of the peo- ple, the cordial approval and assistance of the govern- ment, the nearness of the army and the facilities for reaching it, the co-operation of the military and medical officers, and especially of the chaplains, and above all the character of the soldiers themselves, — these were auxil- iaries without which the Christian Commission could not have maintained its efficiency, nor even its existence; and they must not be forgotten for a moment if the history of the Commission is to he properly understood. The army contained all the elements of intellectual and moral power which exist in the nation. The colleges, learned 578 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. professions, mercantile establishments, manufactories, workshops, farms, — in a word, every department of activity and life, — had representatives in the field, and many of them were among the most prominent and influential members of Christian churches. 1 The army was also, in the best sease of the word, a community, — " a society having common rights, iirivileges, and interests," — for they were freely banded together to secure a common object, and the private was the peer of the officer in social position, intelligence, moral char- acter, and motive, — in everything but temporary official authority. In these facts and circumstances were the assurances of the Delegate's success, and it would have been a marvel if he had been unsuccessful. In every camp and hospital were Christian soldiers, who needed only encouragement and direction, to engage in every form of religious activity, and in these the Delegates found, as did the chaplains, intelligent sympathy, incen- tives, and assistance." And, moreover, the Delegates, were aided by all the previous train of religious in- fluences to which the men had been subject. In very 1 See p. 82. - The Union soldiers were frequently compared to the famous "Ironsides" of Cromwell. The comparison was natural, although the contrasts between them were as striking as the resemblances. Mr. John Stoughton, in his Ecclesiastical History of England from the Opening of the Long Parliament to the Death of Oliver Cromwell, now in course of publication, gives this sketch of the religious char- acter and services of the Puritan soldiery: — "In many a military assembly during the civil wars, — gathered in town or country church, or under some canvas roof in the midst of a camp, or in the open air by the hillside, or in the depth of a valley, or upon a village green, or under the shadow of a secluded grove, — where some unlettered soldier preached the gospel and prayed with his comrades, though there might be not a little to shock a cultivated taste, there would be very much more which was acceptable to Him who is a Spirit, and who overlooks much which is annoying to us, if man do but worship in spirit DELEGATES. 579 few instances could the Delegate feel thai the conversion or restoration of asoul was wholly due, under Gk»d, to his personal efforts alone. A sermon heard many years before, some passage of Scripture or providential visita- tion brought vividly to the mind, a mother's or wife's or sister's or child's prayers and entreaties, a Sunday-school teacher's endeavors, a chaplain's exhortation, a fellow- soldier's timely word, a letter from home, a paragraph in a religious newspaper or book, — all these must be reckoned among the agencies which the Holy Spirit used in producing and maintaining the wonderful religious interest that pervaded the army. It was a blessed com- munion of spiritual service, and it was not the lea-l of the joys of the Delegate that he often saw the seed which had been sown in distant places and times, and in widely different scenes, springing up and bearing fruit amid the carnage and desolation and suffering of war. It was an assurance also that his own labors would not be in vain. and in truth. Favorably would these simple ami irregular forms compare with more orderly and imposing modes of religious services in cathedrals and churches and chapels, Where men display to congregations wide Devotion's everj grace except the heart. Those who fought al Mav-t.ni Moor and Naseby could not have cultivated so much communion with the Invisible as they did, without thereby gaining trength for carrying the daily burdens and fighting the common battles of human life. There is hardly more of poetry than of truth in the picture of a Puritan trooper, with his helmet on the ground and his sword-belt unfa- d, sitting by his tent-door in the heat of the day, to talk with the angels of God, whom faith in the well-worn Book on his knee enabled him to behold ; — or, of another vet. Tan of tie- -am.- class, the night before a greal battle, « ill. - lasped hand-, looking up to the bright -tars, seeking by prayer the help which he needed from the God above them. And all this kind <>( experience must have made such people not only better soldiers but better men." Vol. I.— 77/. Church of the Civil Wars, chap. 21, p. 465. 580 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Eaeb Delegate was expected to furnish the ( Jommission with a full report of his work. Many of these were published, in whole or in ]>art, and did much toward sustaining public interest in the Commission's opera- tions. Alike for their intrinsic value, and as more clearly showing the several phases of Delegate work, the three following reports are given entire. The first is an account of labors performed in the permanent hospitals in Washington : — Report of Rev. F. P. Mom-out, Delegate of the United States Chris- tian Commission, from Qreensburg, Indiana. STATISTICS. Number of days occupied 43 " meetings conducted, ...... 31 " " participated in, ..... 5 " sermons preached, ...... 23 '' soldiers personally conversed with about their spiritual interests, ..... 900 " benefited by gifts of hospital stores or personal ministrations, . . . . • .1,848 ' letters written for soldiers, ..... 43 Distributed 322 Testaments, 72 Hymn and Psalm-books, 1,361 Sol- diers' Books, Tracts about 4,000 pages, Papers 2,725, Pamphlets i:;. INCIDENTS. A.s a Delegate of the United States Christian Commission, I occu- pied for six weeks a very interesting position in the field you culti- vate, having vision of a "great whitening harvest," and of "laborers many" and busy, "sowing the good seed," and "thrusting in the sickle," and often under such grateful influence of sunshine and storm as to bring very near together the sower's toil and anxiety and the reaper's song of rejoicing, The Christian and the Enquirer. — My first half hour in DELEGATES. 581 Armory Square Hospital, Washington City, pr ised bul little as to my own ability for or usefulness in the service. It was spent in con- versation with soldiers jusl in from the " front," severely wounded and suffering. Inhaling of necessity their fetid breath and the nauseous atmosphere of their putrid, undressed wounds, resulted in such physical prostration thai I had lefl not more than enough strength to enable me to pise and hurry from the place. Staggering in a vacant cot, and resting sufficiently to justify another effort, 1 addressed myself in turn to two young nun in a different pari of the ward, — one of them a happy Christian, the other an anxious in- quirer, — the former having served the Saviour five years, nearly half that period in the Onion army, and who considered his position in it. thf best he had ever known, for a sense of personal religious responsibility, for nearness to God, growth in grace, and usefulness to others in the practice of piety ; the hitter having a fond remem- brance of linnie, the family altar, the Sabbath-school, and the sanc- tuary, — a stranger as yet to saving grace, bul under deep conviction of sin, and longing to " know the love oi ( ""l in Christ Jesus" and the joys et' his salvation. Here was, indeed, a refreshment of soul, as I heard from the lips of the one his experiences and observations, or rather what I considered "a narrative of the stale of religion" in his regiment ; or as I marked in the oilier the increasing anxiety, and the strengthening determination to find, as not many day- after he did find, Jesus as his Saviour " precious" by faith, — yes, a refresh- ment extending also to the "outer man," nerving me for service among their " companions in tribulation," of which, hul a ment before, I deemed myself so entirely incapable. A grateful German. — Passing from these, how the eye of a. Buffering German soldier kindled as it rested upon my badge, while, in the best English he could command, he expressed Ids appreciation of our enterprise : "Ah, das isfa te Christian ( torn mission. He's te pesht man in te army. Him safes my life. He comes rounl when we lays in te Wiltemess, all two lays and two nights, ant no preat, ant no vater, ant no doctor, and shust pick urn up all uv u in, ant give uni preat and vater, ant nurse uni. Oh, him SO many, too,- plenly of inn, — ant him doctor he-elf, ant bring uni to White House, ant bring urn up lure to te hospital. Oh, he so goot ! lie's te pesht man in te army. Him work shust like a nigger." And thus, what -382 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. an introduction our badge offers to the confidence of those whose first sorrows, after the bloody conflict, have been assuaged by the Delegates on the field. Soup and Testaments. — After some two weeks in Armory Square, wishing to see some wounded friends, I took occasion to labor for a day in Harewood Hospital. About 2 o'clock, p.m., weary and hungry, while on the way to the office where I had deposited my "cold snack," 1 my attention was suddenly arrested by a very large woman, with a very large pair of lungs, and, as I pre- sumed, a very large heart, calling out, "What are we to do, sir? Five hundred and fifty wounded soldiers, hungry and sore, just arriv- 1 [t may not be amiss to cite here the testimony of a friendly observer, not connected with the Commission, as to the manner in which the Delegates lived. Mr. C. C. Coffin, the army correspondent ("Carleton") of the Boston Journal, writes thus to his paper, from Washington : — "'Come up to our rooms and see us,' was the kind invitation of Rev. Mr. Thurston, of Newbury, in charge of the Christian Commission rooms at Washington. I accepted the invitation, and reached the small, one-story brick house at the corner of I and Ninth streets. A wagon stood before the door. I peeped in and saw sonic cans of prepared milk, bottles of jellies, oranges, lemons, syrups, wines, cordials, shirts, drawers, slippers, newspapers, magazines, and hymn-books. Entering the rooms of the Commission I found twenty or thirty men. They hail on woollen shirts, old clothes, and straw hats. Some were lifting boxes ; one was diving to the bottom of a barrel, fishing for a bundle of tracts ; some were unpacking bottles from casks, and were covered with hay and straw. They did not look like ministers. I did not see a white neck-tie or a nice, black broadcloth coat, or kid gloves. They were more like a party of stevedores and waiters than nun from the pulpit. It was the dinner hour, and I went down with the Delegates into the cellar, through a bulk head. The Commission does not dwell in ceiled houses. Its rooms are not capacious or gorgeous. There was a joint of mutton, soft bread, apple-sauce, potatoes, tomatoes, farina, tea, coffee, and water, — no wines for dinner. Plain, simple, wholesome fare. There was no ceremony, no sitting after dinner, for there was no time to spare. Each man was up from the table and at his work, unpacking boxes just arrived, selecting parcels needed for afternoon use, and then away to hospitals. They had been their morning rounds, and were off for the afternoon. In that unostentatious manner, in four small rooms, the Commission carries on its operations at a very small expense and on a rigid system of economy, — not niggardly, but measuring means with ends. The Delegates sleep in a large chapel tent on Tenth street. The Com- mission has taken firm hold upon the hearts of the people. It is seen that its ministrations reach the soldiers. Its supplies go where they are needed." DELEGATES. •"' s -'> iag from the front, and nobody to feed them soup?" "Madam, I'll help," said I. "and can probably furnish another assistant." Three of us undertook it. Ladling ou1 soup in a hurry to such u number of hungry nun was "hard work," had we nol heard, as wc did at almost every step, their appreciative exclamation, "Well, boys, here's the Christian Commission again! "Oh, don't that taste like home 1" " We do n't get such soup every day." " It' it had n't been for the Christian Commission down at Spottsylvania, some of us wouldn't Ije eating soup here to-day." Soup finished, I resumed my haversack, distributing to the same men Testaments, soldiers' hooks, and tracts. Here was a new joy. While eagerly extending their hands, they were crying out, — "Christian Commission, give me one of those books, please;" "I'll take one, Christian;" "Good man, give me one. won't you?" "Oh, we're going to have something good to read again." These are mentioned because they were tokens of good, and I know that many a chord, touched to gratitude by the bestowment oi things needed in order to bodily comfort, did not cease to vibrate, hut, swept anew and more directly by the Spirit of God, had waked to sweeter strains in the song of Moses and the Lamb. A Roman Catholic Christian. — I had frequent occasion to observe in tic more youthful disciples of Roman Catholicism an independence of thought and opinion in regard to religious interests, and as a consequence of this the exercise of fraternal feeling towards Protestants, with a willingness sometimes rising to desire to receive from them religious instruction and comfort. Of this somewhat numerous class J. ( '. was a type; and from him and others I learned to attribute the change, in part, to their lone,- and intimate associa- tion in the army with Protestant Christians; and alone,- with this, lint paramount, to the influence of the religious literature and evan- gelical instructions furnished by the Christian Commission during the toils of the campaign or the tedium of " winter quarters," when the hungerings and thirstings of the soldier prompt to a ready ac- ceptance of whatever is offered to supply the mind and heart. Said the sergeant, smilingly, as I approached his cot, "That's a noble badge you wear, sir. Your Christian Commission has done great things for us | r fellows." "Well," said I, "if you descend into the mine, don't you think we should hold the rope?" "That 's what 584 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. I call a Christian institution," said the sergeant. After some in- quiries as to his wounds and wants, I asked him if lie was a Chris- tian. He replied, "I suppose you would hardly consider me a Christian." "Well," said I, " it 's very easily ascertained. Do you love God?" "Yes, sir, I do love him with all my heart." " Have you faith in Christ, trusting in him as your Saviour?" "Yes, sir, in Christ, and in nobody else." " Do you pray to God through Jesus Christ?" "Yes, sir, to God, and nobody else, — through Jesus Christ, and nobody else." " Do you truly repent oi' sin, seeking pardon, acceptance, and salvation through the merit of Christ?" " Yes, through his merits only, only." "And do you find comfort in prayer and communion with God ?" "Yes, sir, and a hope that's worth more to me than all the world beside." "Well, if this be true," said I, "you must be a Christian. I don't know what else to call you." He wished me to come in often, and talk with him, which I did, — always finding him sociable, happy in mind, ingenuous, and as one knowing that he must finally " give account for him- self," entirely free from servility in thought, opinion, and conduct. Spiritual Labors and Fruits. — Quite a large proportion of the sufferers in my wards were Christians, — intelligent, comfortable Christians, waiting God's will, — many having become such since their connection with the army, not a few of these attributing the change, under God, to means and appliances furnished by the Chris- tian Commission. There were others who, similarly influenced, were already weighing the momentous interests of the soul ; and others again who, as soon as the subject was proposed, though hitherto careless, began to inquire, "What shall I do to be saved?" — and I cannot but believe that many, by the blessing of God's Spirit attend- ing my labors, were brought to a saving knowledge of the truth. Some of them have since died in the triumphs of faith; others still living, to " bear about with them the dying of the Lord Jesus," and rejoice more in the " honor that Cometh from above" than in that with which their grateful country will crown them, in view of the wounds received in its service. W. F. S., of the One Hundred and Twelfth New York, spoke feel- ingly and gratefully of his pious mother, her prayers and Christian counsels. He now regretted his past life of carelessness, and felt un- prepared for death, should his wounds prove fatal. He had long DELEGATES. ")K.") thoughl seriously, but was without an interest in Christ. He was exhorted to place his burden of sin on Christ, who had borne our sins and carried om- sorrows, — that Cod only required of the dying sinner real repentance and genuine faith. A.nd how could any sinner stay away from Christ, while the gospel declared that "God so loved the world thai he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in li i in should not perish, but have everlasting life?" This passage and Paul's " faithful saying " wore given him to study and pray over. But he could find no comfort until within a week of Ids death. Two days before death he told me he had the assurance of faith in Christ, -I'ell prepared and resigned. "I think," said he, "I should be happy if the messenger should come for me this moment." At length the solemn hour came; and, as natural vision tailed him, the light of faith and hope grew strong, and clapping his hands together several times, he uttered his last words, "Glory to Cod! 1 shall soon be a i rest." "Win. Hambline, Company D, Fifth Maine, suffering from ampu- tati I' a leg, I found next day, very, very feeble, no probability of recovery. He had been thinking of his sins, trying to repent and come to Christ, hut hardly knew whether he was forgiven anil accepted or not. He evinced sueh childlike simplicity and sin- cerity,— thought he loved the Saviour, and trusted in him for salva- tion. I inquired, "Do you pray?" He replied, "Oh, yes; I can't pray as you do, but I try. I prayed twice to-day, — prayed a good long time, and it did me good, but still I'm in doubt." " What did you say when you prayed'/" " I asked God to pardon my sins and >ave my soul." "Did that prayer bribg you any comfort '.'" " Yes, I think, some; hut I want a more satisfactory assurance." He was then referred to the Scripture encouragements to prayer and looking to Christ, — " Ask, and ye shall receive," etc.; "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rot." " While in all this God was requiring, 'Son, give me thy heart,' — now, can 'i you say with your whole heart, ' Lord, save ; 1 perish ?'" His response was very earnest ami emphatic: " Lord — save — I — perish ;" " Lord, save; I periih." His attention was that of an almost dying man, while T dwelt tin- a time on the philosophy of God's plan of mercy, — spiritual, eternal life, tin- dying, hell-deserving sinners, — by the sufferings and death of Cod's well-beloved Sun, so that God 7i 580 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN' COMMISSION. could be just and yet justify the .-•inner, — and now offering that salvation simply for the taking. "And how kind in God, not only that this salvation meets your case as a sinner, but that his mercy meets your present condition, as you lie here, feeble in body and mind, while he comes and asks you to 'receive the kingdom as a little child.' Come to him, then, with the simple faith of a child in a loving parent, penitent for past sin, your heart open to just one interest, your soul lilled with just one desire; and praying with prayer thai takes no denial, ask God, for Christ's sake, to pardon and save you. Now, here 's just what you need. Can't you make it your own, while you express it before God? ■ A guilty, weak, and helpless worm, "a thy kind anus I fall ; Be thou my strength, my righteousness, \l\ Saviour, and my all '.'" His eve fixed upon me with the searching anxiety of an awakened sinner, and. every feature of his countenance indicating the encourage- ment derived from a new thought, he asked, " Won't you please say thai again?" I did say it again ; and oh, it was touching to hear him, in tears, and with the imploring heart and voice of a child, coining back from his wanderings, repeating it after me, — a line, or pari of a line at a time, until he came to the closing line, "My Saviour and mil all!" which was uttered with an emphasis warm from the heart, and then a sweet smile, as from a sense of acceptance, and " consolation in Christ Jesus," rose to his face, and settled there, and he said to me, "That will do now." Commending him to God, and to the word of his grace, I left his licd-side, cheered w ith the assurance that thus another new-born soul was being "guided by God's counsel," soon to he " received to his glory." Christian Parents' Reward. — One of the most interesting of my hospital parishioners was W. P. S., of a Massachusetts regiment. Day after day, as he lay suffering from severe wounds, yet quiet and uncomplaining, I had ministered to his physical comfort, and supplied him with religious reading-matter, at the same time pressing upon his attention the concerns of his soul. He knew and acknowledged his sin- and his danger, and seemed penitent from the first, with an in- creasing desire to know Christ as his Saviour. Pious parents had DELEGATES. 587 trained him through childhood and youth, and their prayerful interest he now remembered with pleasure. lie understood the doctrines of grace, loved to read bis New Testament and to pray, had never engaged in battle without commending himself to God in prayer, but complained that lie had not that t'aitli which takes Christ at his word, appropriating him as a personal Saviour, — that though he hail tried to give up all tin- Christ, lie did noi realize the comfort he desired, and did not know that he was accepted. It was then suggested that i he sacrifice In 1 offered was incomplete, and he was urged to a care- ful searching of heart, to a deeper sorrow for sin, to an entire reliance on Chrisl as a Saviour " able and willing to save to the uttermost," and to prayer, sincere, importunate prayer, — "Lord, I believe; help thou mine belief;" " Lord, I am thine ; save me;" "Lord, save; I perish;" — seeking also the aid of the Holy Spirit, to shov* him his heart, to help his infirmities, and to guide him into truth and to Christ. When I saw him again he was in a delightful state of mind. He " knew that he had passed from death unto life ;" all doubts and fears were removed, and he was "rejoicing in Christ." He gave me an ac< nt of the exercises of mind through which he had passed, — the struggle, tin' victory, the peace, — and I could not hut rejoice with him that " the grace of God had appeared." The thoughl then occurred to me. " Well, this is too good to he kept; I must tell his parent- all about it; he has just given me their address," — when I was almost startled at hearing from his lips the exclamation. " ( ) father! father! lather, I'm glad you've come!" I turned round, and there stood the lather a few pace- distant, motionless and power- less to speak or approach, the son still extending his arms, and utter- ing that endearing name in tones that told how deeply it was treasured in his heart. A II eyes were turned upon the scene. Invalids, nurses, and visitor- gathered near. Silence, on the father's part, wa- at length broken by his utterance of " William, I'm sorry to see you here." The heart of the .-on still yearning toward him, "Oh father, I'm SO glad you've come; dear father! father, come and shake hands." He took the' chair I offered at the bedside, hut was still too full of emotion to speak. Fearing injury to the invalid from the over- excitement, I remarked, "Your son wishes to shake hands. Shake hands with him." Curbing his emotion.-, he leaned forward, and 588 \w\i.s OF THE CHKI8TLO commission. parent and child wore clasped in a fond embrace, bo sacred thai all turned away and lefl them to themselves. Altera while I returned and sat with them, 'Baying to the young dim it : "It's right pleasant to see your father, is it not?" "Q,yesj dear Father 1" I then reminded the father of his expression ns he (•Mine in. " William, I 'va sorry to see you here," — adding, "1 know very well whal you meant, but I wanted to say that this is perhaps the best place he ever was in. I've been talking with him .a good while this morning, and he's been giving his first Christian experi- ence. He has been telling me of your and liis mother's oares and counsels and prayers in his behalf. He nov says that he loves the Saviour. I think he is b Christian; and he had just given me your address, that I might tell you of it. Yes, I think iliis is one of the best places your sun ever was in." lie replied, " Perhaps bo; I trust il is;" while his eves met those of liis sun in a look of earnest. inquiry, then of satisfaction, and I left them tearful in their joy. An Awini > Inquirer. Thomas Regan, Company 1, First South Carolina Regiment, wounded and taken prisoner, June 2!', in a picket skirmish near Cold Harbor, Va., was brought into our hos> pita! in a suffering condition. Introducing myself as usual by kind inquiries and offers of material comfort, I proposed the common query, "Are you a Christian?" His reply was, " No, sir ; 0, no; I wish I were." " Is iliis wish a new thing with Vim?" " Well, ves, sir; it 's a new thing as I now feel it, though I 've always thought I ought to be a Christian, and that I would be sometime; Inn some- how I never before realized fully my responsibility, and never could bring my mind to bear upon the subject properly. My parents are consistent Christians, and have always given me good advice, ami shown their interest in my spiritual welfare; but, to my shame I say it, 1 have still continued careless. 1 am not a Christian." "Bui von now say thai you desire to be, and thai this desire is different from am similar feeling before exercised." "Yes, sir; 1 think it is." "Is sin mere fill by yOU nmr :\< an evil and hitter tiling on your pari and an offence to God? and would you really wish the burden removed?" " Yes, sir." " Well, can't vnii come to Christ ; and can't you pray, ' Lord, save ; 1 perish?'" "1 do try, sir; hut somehow I can't do it right." "How do von account for your present stale oi mind? What has led you now recently to feel as you do?" "Well, sir, DELKC A Ti:s. 589 I 'II toll you. After I was wounded and taken prisoner, and brought over to the White House, where we all lay out together, upon the ground, wrapped in our blankets, and while I was suffering greatly, away In the middle of the night, some came along,— il seems to me Dow like a dream, lie had mi a bailee, I think, just like \ -; probably he was a minister. Any how, he kneeled down jusl be- tween one of your wounded men and myself, and prayed for him, and then for me. I suppose he must, have known from appearances who I was, but I never heard such a prayer as he prayed so earnestly, and prayed fur ilu salvation of my soul. It seemed so strange to me, and I thought, il' an enemy could pray for me thus, surely I oughl in pray for myself. I then thought of my past Hie, what a great sinner 1 had been, how ungrateful to God, ami how unkind to my parents for their interest in me, I heir instructions and their prayers. I felt. my responsibility that night as I had never done before, ami indeed I 've not lost sighl of it a moment since, and I 've been trying to pray, hut it don't seem to do any good." lie was in tears. " Well," said I, "you'll never seeure salvation until you make < bid believe thai villi want it. Christ will never he your Saviour until you 80 realize the guilt of sin, and your own wretchedness and helplessness, as that yuii can come to him in deep penitence, crying, with your wholi heart, '(bid be merciful to me, a sinner;' 'Lord, save; I perish.'" lie seemed deeply moved, a lid in <_ r roat distress, anxious for relief, asked me to pray for him, which I did; ami many times during the ensuing fortnight I conversed with him, unfolding God's plan I'm- saving sinners, and giving such counsels and encourage: incuts as I eould,— liis interest all the time increasing, his eonvic- tions deepening, his resolutions strengthening, and the way of life, becoming clearer. " But this wicked heart of mine," said he; "there i- the trouble. Do you think il i- possible for God to show mercy to such ;i sinner?" " Yes," said 1, "to just such < legate of the Christian Commission sets out. I had no conception of it myself. Ii was tn mi ;i wonderful revelation. The power of religion, in all its offices, was exhibited in miy own soul's experience, and before my eyes, in a way that I had never seen and felt it before. 1 thank God Corps, in the field hospital and at the front, — headquarters being at Point of Rocks, on the Appomattox: — "There are now about two thousand patients in the hospital. Our establishment here consists of one chapel t< nt for store-room, one chapel-fly for sleeping tent, one for religious services, • wall-tent for warehouse, and one for office. I have only eight Delegates at present, though T should have mi least ten. Here is my mode of work in the corps and hospi- tal. Early in the morning six or seven Delegates go in a two-horse wagon to the front, carrying with them a good quantity of reading-matter and hospital stores, — for every regiment at the front has a number of patients in its regi- mental hospital. These Delegates :ill spend the whole forenoon in one or two brigades, taking the troops in their order on the line. They aim to see every man as they go, and either give him something or speak a kind word to him. This "front" work I deem very important, even more so than the hospital work ; and 1 have always :i i int; it made the thing so plain to me. 1 have n't much learning, and I haven't tried to understand these things much, hut HOW I see thjOUgh it all. I want you to help tue jinrk ll/i. Will Mill pray with me, chaplain ? " I knelt by his side. Whilst speaking with God, the earnest heart cried out, " 0, do, Lord, help me, help me." It was a solemn season. The Holy Spirit was there. "This poor man cried and the I. old heard him." 1 was ahout to leave, to go to another who had beckoned to me, when the dear boy said, "O, 75 594 ANNALS OF THE CHRIST-IAN COMMISSION. I thank you, chaplain ; I am happy now; I have found Jesus." He was radiant with joy, so that I wondered. I said to him, " But what of your poor body?" He had been shot through the right shpulder and left leg, and had had an arm taken off. "Do you suffer much now?" "O," said he, " my wounds are nothing now. lean bear them all; I have peace within." At his request I sat down, with a full heart, and wrote to his wife, informing her of his condition of body, but with particular emphasis, as he urged, of the blessed change that had come over his soul. Indeed it was wonderful, to see the forgetfulness of bodily suffering in the new-found joy which filled this wounded soldier's heart. We sang " Rest for the weary." and one man, whose whole thigh had been shattered by a shell, lay there perfectly calm, patient, even happy. He smiled as I came to him, and said, " O, how that hymn cheered me ! I forgot my pains whilst I listened to it ; and I know it cheered many of the boy.-." The leaven of early parental instruction, and the sweet power of home, is seen working wonderfully in this distant place and day, and in these strange scenes. Mother, father, sister, wife, children, were constantly on the lips of the men. To these softening influences and faithful labors of those at home, many, with tears of gratitude and words of affection, attributed, under God, their salvation. One said to me, "Chaplain, I have just given my heart to Christ, and I pray you sit right down and write to my mother. O, how it will gladden her heart!" and the tears ran like rain down his cheeks. "O, how my dear mother will rejoice when she hears it! She does not know I am wounded, and it maybe she thinks I am killed, because it was so reported by my sergeant. But I want her to know I am a Christian. O, how glad, how glad, it will make her!" Another, to whom we had ministered, called me to him, and said he had found Jesus while lying in his helplessness and pain, and he would be thankful if I would write to his wife. " O, how it will fill her heart with joy!" said he; "I have a glorious wife; I know she has been praying for me all the time ; and now I want her to know that her prayers have been answered." He seemed to be too full for calm utterance. The Christian Commission came in for a large share of his expressions of gratitude. Another dear boy said, "Will you please write to papa and mamma, and tell them my wound is slowly DELEGATES. 595 mending,' and that I enjoy the presence of my Saviour, and am happy in the Lord? I rest in Jesus, and he sustains me." These are but few of the many cheering evidences thai the Lord lias blessed this kind of labor. The work cannot be pictured in its vividness, its blessedness. Souls arc dailv brought to Christ, without doubt, and lives arc saved by the score and hundreds. Daily we bear. "Had it not liecn tin- yen m'en of the Christian Commission, we should have died for want of food and nursing;" " And in our sins, too," some have, by the grace of God, been able to add. One group of soldiers claimed my deepest sympathy. Four In- dians, from Wisconsin, lay together, bleeding for the country that had once been the wide domain of their fathers. I lay down close to one, and spoke of Jesus and his salvation. His eye brightened. He had heard that blessed name before, and ill his broken way said, "I love him; 1 love him." J commended his spirit to God, and then sang him to sleep, — for he died while we were singing. The other three 1 m bans were unable to speak. May God help them! I gave them some refreshment and left them. One other incident may point a reflection. It is no uncommon one in the history of the Christ-like work of the Commission. I came to a poor boy who was shot ill the breast, and said to him, "My dear boy, how are you getting along?" At first he made no reply. I saw a tear glistening in his eye. He had been holding his head down, lie looked up at last anil said, " I am a rebel. "When you washed my lace this morning, and treated me so tenderly. ( >. it made me feel bad, to think T hail been fighting against you." lie then asked me where I was from. I told him I came from Phila- delphia; that the Christian Commission had sent me to him, to make liim comfortable, as far as I could, in body and in soul ; and asked lii tii if I could minister to his soul's wants. He put his hands to his face, shook hi< head, while the tears rolled down his cheeks, lie confessed he was not a Christian. lie was touched to the very centre. I let't him with hope that our treatment might lie blessed to his eternal good. Our kindness certainly seemed like heaping coals id' fire on his head. 'Phis is but a fragmentary and very imperfect sketch of the labors of ten days. The gratitude of the men, their appreciation of the smallest service, their tenderness of heart, and the glorious oppois 596 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. tunity of sowing in this softened ground the good seed of the king- dom, cannot be estimated. O that the church of God were fully- alive to the vastness and grandeur of the field spread before her, and would understand and do her whole duty in this day of grace. I close by repeating the sentiment of the grateful soldiers, one and all, and the prayer that is increasing!}' becoming the prayer of the church of Christ throughout the land, — "God bless the Christian Commission !" Isaac Baker. The third report is from the battle-field. Walter S. Carter, Esq., of Milwaukee, was in the company of Delegates present at the battle of Nashville, December 15 and 16, 1864, — having gone from the Convention at Indianapolis, to assist in earing for those who were wounded in the battle of Franklin. 1 He writes thus: — Those days of blessed labor and delightful fellowship were ended,— labor with our sick and wounded heroes in the hospitals of Nash- ville, fellowship with those, noble Delegates of the Christian Commis- sion, who were there to minister to them in spiritual and temporal-things. Thursday morning (December 15) we were to start homeward. Good- bys and God-bless-yous were being uttered, when Brother Smith, the Field Agent, handed me a letter. It was from a surgeon (to another), saying that on the morrow would "almost certainly" be fought one of the greatest battles of the war. Should we go '? " No," said Brother Jacobs. " No," repeated Brother Datcher. " No," said we all. A few words, such as might be expected under such circumstances, and we went to bed, though scarcely to sleep. Long before the day's coming over forty Delegates were astir. A hurried breakfast, and we were gathered together for our devotions. How that prayer of Brother Smith will linger in memory. Brother Jacobs could not have helped saying "Amen," if he had tried, and he didn't try. It was so simple, so direct, so heartfelt, — so full of earnestness, faith, and power. Its burden was, first for victory, and then, if achieved, that it might be at small cost. How a merciful God answered it, let the wonderful accounts of Thursday's and Friday's battles show. 1 See p. 188. DELEGATES. 597 Assignment of Delegates. — A few were senl to Steadraan, who held the lefi ; a larger number cadi to Schofield (Twenty-third Corps), left centre; Wood (Fourth Corps), right centre: A. .T. Smith (Sixteenth Corps), right ; and an adequate force in reserve, to for- ward Mi]>]>lies promptly to those at the front. Battle-field Outfit. — A leather haversack, containing stimu- lants, dried beef, crackers, etc. ; a strong cotton bag, filled with lint, bandages, pins, sponges, towels, etc.; a pail, with coffee, condensed milk, sugar, tin dippers, etc. ; and a small lantern for night work on the field and in the flying hospital. Our assignment was to the Sixteenth Corps, with one exception composed wholly of Western ami Northwestern regiments. In it Ohio had her Seventy-second and Ninety-fifth; Indiana, her Fifty- second, Eighty-ninth, and Ninety-third; Illinois, her Forty-ninth, Fifty-eighth, Seventy-second, Eighty-first, Ninety-fifth, One Hundred and Fourteenth, One Hundred ami Seventeenth, One Hundred and Nineteenth, and One Hundred and Twenty -second ; Missouri, her Seventh, Eleventh, Twenty-first, Thirty-third, and Fortieth; Kansas, her Tenth; Iowa, her Twelfth, Twenty-seventh, Thirty-second, and Eighty-fifth; Wisconsin, her Eighth, Fourteenth, and Thirty-third; and Minnesota, her Fifth, Seventh, Ninth, and Tenth. The batteries were wholly from Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, and Iowa. Witb the Advance, — We took the Hardin pike and travelled West about three miles, when we reached our outer line of works, from which our troops had just marched, and a short distance be- yond which they were formed in line. What a magnificent sight! 'I'cii thousand men in battle array! Some distance in advance our skirmishers were gradually feeling their way towards the enemy's lines. Soon a number of horsemen pass by. That gray-haired and whiskered man, with spectacles, is A. .1. Smith, one of the most tre- mendous fighters that ever drew a sword iii behalf of a righteous cause. The young, light-complexioned officer by him is Wilson, commander of the cavalry. Not many minutes go by before aids arc dashing over the field, the order to advance goes from the corps to division, from division to brigade, ami from brigade to regimental commanders, ami the whole line is in motion. On they go, nearly a. mile, and then the sharp discharge of musketry tells us that the skirmishers are having a warm time. We keep wcdl up to the front, 598 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. and presently down the road we see coming a division of cavalry. They go on over the rebel works with a shout, and Hood's line is broken. Then our infantry, pressing on and doubling up his right flank, drive him sharply toward the South, till they are stopped by a strong fort on the crest of a bill. Our batteries try to silence it, but in vain. At length the Ninth Illinois dismounted cavalry, with one or two supporting regiments, march around to its rear, and, charging up the hill on a double-quick, the guns and upwards of two hundred prisoners are captured. Proceeding towards the fort, we meet several ambulances filled with wounded. In one is Captain J. W. Harper", of Belvidere, Illinois, commanding the Ninth cavalry, shot through the right arm; we do what we can for him and his companions in Buffering, tell him we will write bis wife, and push on. A horrible spectacle is that in the fort, — men with heads, limbs, and arms shut entirely away. One of the rebel dead was recognized by his brother, fighting in our army. But there is no time for such sights. Down the hill the rebels who escaped are fleeing. Our guns are brought to bear on them ; up goes a white flag; and Colonel Butler's brigade are our prisoners. Half or three-quarters of a mile beyond, is the second rebel line, the centre of which is a high, sugar-loaf hill, on which a battery is planted. Instantly twenty-four of our own guns and the lour just taken are playing upon it. Hovi their discharge shakes the very earth. The rebels are totally unable to reply. Then our infantry charge. What a sight! Up the steep sides of the hill they go, not a man faltering, until they reach the summit, when the stars and stripes are flung to the breeze, the second rebel line is carried, with several guns and many prisoners captured, and a glad shout of victory goes from one end of our army to the other. The battle of Thursday is ended ; and we have driven the enemy four or five miles, captured his first and second lines of works, fifteen hundred prisoners, and sixteen guns. Well can our brave boys afford to rest. A Flying Hospital. — Hut all this had not been accomplished without considerable loss to us. Many a gallant spirit had fallen. Colonel Hill, Thirty-fifth Iowa, commanding a brigade of Mc- Arthur's division, and not a few officers and privates, had been killed, while in many places along the line the wounded were thickly lying. Our first care, in connection with the surgeons and chaplains, DELEGATES. 599 w;is to get tlirm ti> a large mansion near by i < lomptor's I, w here a fly- ing hospital was established. We wenl over the field with our lanterns, carefully searching for the dead and wounded. When one of the former was found, we carried him and placed him along with others, ready for a soldier's burial; wh( ne of the latter, he was assisted, or carried on a Btretcher, to the hospital, as circumstances required. < loing over the field, late in the evening, I stumbled upon a dead body. Removing the blanket thai covered it, I found lying by it a soldier asleep. Upon waking him I found he was a brother of, the deceased, and had come to lie by him for the las! time. As we removed the body, he followed, sobbing, and, when we laid it down, again sought its side for the night's rest. " Ee was only my half-brother, but I loved him just as well," was his exclamation, in broken French, as we took leave. Upon another body (thai of George Walker, One Hundred and Eleventh Ohio), 1 found a soldier's hymn-book, completely saturated with his own heart's blood, and through the crimson stain I read, "Presented by the United States Christian Commission." I brought it home as a precious relic of that Held of death and glory. The wounded all safely from the field, and in the hospital, OUI next care was to provide them with something to eat and drink. Beef tea and oolli'o were prepared, and with pails of these, plenty of tin dippers, and haversacks tilled with soft crackers, we went about, giving to each as much as he desired. Meanw hile, other Delegates were busy combing out the tangled hair, sponging the bloody face, wiping off the grim marks of strife, aiding the surgeons in any and every way, while still others. COllld be seen, telling such as were soon to die, of Jesus, his love, his sacrifice for sin, his power to save, his willingness to save, and then lifting the voice in prayer, and implor- ing God's Spirit to come down and make his temple in that sinking breast, and save, ere it lied, thai passing soul. It was marly midnight when we sought the rest our wearied bodies SO much needed. The next morning, before light, we were up, and again refreshments were prepared and served to the men. Several, whose groans filled our ears the night before, had gone to sleep, — the sleep "without dream-." Friday Morning. — All night the rebels were incessantly at work, strengthening their third and last line of works. It was but, 600 ANXALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION*. a little distance in advance of the second, its left (our right) circling along the summit, of a range of high hills, and extending toward the left, through a succession of open fields. Early in the morning, A. J. Smith moved his corps well up to their line, and halted it. All day it remained there, protected only by such slight works as the men -were able to make. My position was about twenty rods in the rear, behind a tree. As wounded men were borne from the lines, I would go, give them such things as they needed, and then retire behind my "intrenchments." Thus the day passes (though Schofield and the cavalry, further on the right, and Wood and Steadman, on the left, ai-e heavily engaged ), until about four o'clock, when ( leneral Thomas and staff ride by. Shortly after, A. J. Smith comes up and takes his place near to the line. Our artillery, also, which has thun- dered all day, now r seems to something more than thunder. Pre- sently I hear a shout ; 1 look, and our men have risen from where they have been lying, and are charging across the field. The rebels pour in a terrible fire, but it cannot check the impetuosity of our Western and Northwestern heroes, and over the works they go, capturing two generals, between two and three thousand prisoners, ami sixteen guns. Now my work has begun in earnest. Strewn thick upon the field are several hundred of our killed and wounded. McArthur's divi- sion lias five hundred less than when he encountered that storm of "leaden rain and iron hail." The Eighth Wisconsin lost sixty men in one-fourth as many minutes, and other regiments have suffered proportionally. I make my way to the field, and, as I come to the wounded, give them stimulants and crackers. General A. J. Smith rides up, and, dismounting, offers me his hand, asks my name, and tells me, "History has no parallel for such labors; never, since the Saviour was on earth, have men gone forth on as holy a mission." Our victorious lines are pressing on, and I go with them, nearly to Brentwood. Returning, Brother Jacobs has converted the Cartwell mansion into a hospital, and has it filled with wounded. lie has dispatched a team to the city, to bring more supplies. Establishing hospitals is surgeon's work, but Brother J. has done it well, and they are rejoiced to have his efficient and timely aid. And now begins a round of duties similar to that of the previous evening, except on a larger scale, so that we do not even try to sleep. Pass- DELEGATES. 601 ing int<> ;i room, I hear my name pronounced, and there lies Edward F. Wright, Seventh Minnesota, whose acquaintance I had made bui a day or two before, with a severe wound in his head. I inquire for his brother-in-law, F. II. Fessenden, and am told that during the charge, turning to inquire how badly he (Wright) was wounded, a bullet struck him in the head, killing him instantly. Before starting, he said, " If I fall, tell my mother that I died trusting in Christ." I go among the dead, find his body, take from it tie 1 hymn-book presented him by the Christian Commission, and have, since my return, with warm, sympathizing words, mailed it to his widowed mother, al Brattlehoro, Vt. Saturday morning comes, ami with it the news that Hood's whole army is on the retreat. I have learned not to believe all I hear in the army, but soon the rush id' cavalry, and quickened tramp of infantry along the pike, tell me that this time the intelligence is true. And now. to men whom I have known hut a night, hut wdio are still dear to me because of their sufferings for the country we love, I must hid farewell, to meet them again only in eternity. The Commission refers confidently to the subjoined list of their Delegates. It includes the mimes of men from till denominations of Christians and from every section of the loyal States. In connection with the re- sults of the work itself, this catalogue of names is the must satisfactory evidence which the Commission can presenl to those whose benefactions it dispensed, that their great trust was faithfully and wisely administered. %isM>^ wm ' SS '% DELE C. A T B S 11 A II G B 76 602 ANNALS OF THE CIIIMSTIAX COMMISSION. LIST OF DELEGATES OF THE UNITED STATES CHRISTIAN COMMIS- SION, WITH POST-OFFICE ADDRESS, NUMBER OF COMMISSION, AND OFFICE AT WHICH THE COMMISSION WAS ISSUED. Explanation.— The list of each year Ee glvon separately, in alphabetical order, The figures al tl)o end of the line show the number of the commission,'- these numbers being in continuous series from the beginning to the close of the work. The letters which precede the numbers Indicate the (.'Aire nt which the commission was issued, the abbreviations being thus: — Alb., Attain ; Bus,, Bos- ton; Bal., Baltimore ; Bkn., Brooklyn; Buf., Buffalo; Cin., Cincinnati; Chi., Chicago; Cle., Cleve- land; Dot., Detroit; Gbg., Gettysburg; Ilbg., Elarrisbnrg; ll.tr., Hartford; tud., Cndianapolia ; Lou., Louisville; Mil.. Milwaukee; V Y., New fork; Pha., Philadelphia; Pbg., Pittsburg; Peo., Peoria; Roc, Rochester; St. L., St. Louis; St. P., Si. Paul; Try.. Troy; dta., Utica; Wn., Washing- ton : \\ g., \\ heeling. Where n Delegate wont to the army more than once within the same year, tu-- number of such visits is Bhown by a figure affixed to bis nnme in parentheses,- - the number of commission given being that of the Jirst bo received A Delegate who * 1 ■ ^_- « 1 while in service, oi from disease contracted while in service, 1ms lus m i marked with a Btar(*). The goat-office address given is that ol the Dolegate at the time oi bis service. [See page 638 | com M I SSION BD I N 1 862. Alday, Rev. J, II., d. d., Philadelphia. Alexander, Rev, II. C. New York Anderson, Rev. Geo. \Y.. Philad'n As] it,. n. A. II., m. d., Philadelphia Atkinson. Thos., Chicago Baird, Rev. s . .1 ., d.d., Woodbury, N.J. Ball, Rev.R. II Ballantyue, Wm., Washington Banl .-. I lideon, Frederick, M.. Philadelphia Cook, Rev. Geo., Amherst, Mass Corbett, II., Princeton Tl I. Sein. ... Corey, Kev. Chas II., Seabrook, N. II. Crate, Rov, — .. Moorostown, N. J Crawford, Rev, J. A., Rrattleboro', A't. Cressy, G. N., Baltimore Crom l., Rev. <'. .' Crowell, Rev. Jas, M., Philadelphia... Cnmmings, .i.e., Philadelphia Cunningham, Rei . Jos . ox . 1'liila.... Cushln , Ri v.''.. VHi Brookfleld, Ms. Dean, Bi nj \.. Pi Enceton Theol, Sem. 1 1. it i Rev. Chas, M.,Imlaystown, N.J. Demond, Charles, Boston, Mass Dickson, David, Philadelphia Dixon, Jno., Chicago Doane, Rev. II.. Peoria, III Dobbins, Re> . .las. i;., Philadelphia... Douglass, Kev. R. D., Bangor, Me Doyl ]>nii (3), Wm. A.. Philadelphia Dunwoody, .'esse i; , Coatesi ille, Pa KaLin, \V. s., Nashville, Tennessee. - Eastman, Rev. 0., New York Boatman, Rev, Wm. K., New York KMer, Rev. J. Q.. Clarion, Pa Ellis, (Mi Eltonhead (2), Mm. it.. Philadelphia.. Fnser, Christiuu, Philadelphia Kemlaii, it! \. B. \*., Moorostown, N. J.. Konl, Jus, o., Coatesville, Pa Froscko, Charles, Uidiimurv Pha. 201 Bal. Bos. 55 I'ha. 122 Pha, 2, ,7 Pha, 131 I'll,!. 1H2 Pha. 211 Bos. 86 I'll:,. 142 II... 73 Bal. Pha. 209 I'll,!. IS I'll,!. 00 Pha, 58 Bos, 145 I'll,!. 205 Pha. 182 Pha. 01 Pha. 130 ciii. Chi. 170 Pha. 00 BOS. 1S5 Chi. 172 I'll,!. 05 Pha. 39 I'll,!. 21, 1 Pha. 101 I'll,!. 195 I'll!!. 1711 Pha. 154 Pha, 58 I'll,!. 104 Pha. 141 I'll,!. Bal. 41 LIST OF DELEGATES.' •1862. 60S Hum.', Win 1-.. Baltimore... Bui. Getty, "in . Philadelphia Pha. H3 Gilroj i;. \ Hi in v i:.. Pottsville, Pa.. Pha. Graci r.Rcv.S I.. Media, Pa rim. 180 Grunt -i. .Tea., Philadelphia Pha. 62 Graa \ J . M. K, Ol lilli.l, M.. Bos. 213 Greene, Rev. Joa. P., Bangor, Me Bob. 188 Haldy, LouU Pha. :•'•: II. ink. Lewis, Baltimore Bal. Ilailun rJ'. Ai.ii.in D-, Coatesville Pha. 28 1 1 ii 1 1 ui Andrew. Bal. Iliui i-iii Wm. [I., Baltimore Bal. Hurtshorno, tlenry, M. D., Philud'a Pha, 1-7 Hawley, IS. u . Chicag Chi, Herring, 0., Baltimore Hal. ii. in \i I . ' liicago Bal. Holliday, » m \ . Philadelphia Pha. 22 Horner, B. I: Baltimore Hal. Hotchkin, Ri > i: i:.. II. im iii.r.i. Pa.. Pha. 128 Howard, C. M Chi. 171 .ii. oh i: i I lii . Chi. 162 Jacobs, Sirs. B. P., Chicago Chi. James, B. W., u. n., Philadelphto Pha. B8 Janeway, Bov. .1. B. II., Philadelphia.. Pha. Hi Jenkins, .in Pha. 108 .Inn.- .' , K. \ Jno., Princeton, N°. J... Pha. 88 Karsnor, Rev. C, m i-.. Germautown, I'., Pha. '.u Kauiiiiaiin, Jos. i . Coatesville, Pa Pha. .'IV Kelso, i .1 . Baltimore Hal. Ki mi. ill. It Pha, ok Kerr, AJex.,.PhIladelphia Pha. Tl Kevinski, Jno. B., Lancaster, Pa Pha. Oli Kimball, Jas. Sherman, Boston Bos. 148 i. ... Bdward I' Pha. 44 King, Rev. I laiah D., Mi. Holly, N. J.. Pha. 160 Km: i.ini i v., U.S., Philadelphia.. Pha. s '.' Klein, Pha. 12J l.ail.l. I;, v 1 i. in. i- Dudley, PhUa Pha. i- I...11.1 Rov, vl ni. H ., Philadelphia I'lia. 29 Lei . Ri \ ii- no ' ■ Philadelphia Pha. 98 Lewis, \\ iiii.iin Pirn, no Lowrie, M. B., Philadelphia I'lia. -1 Magill, Ri r.Chn B, B n.n.v.i. Pha. I'm Mm, .las. H., Princeton, N. J Pha. 20il M i Isaai B i'lia. mi M i. Hi" r., Philadelphia Pha. L08 M itlai k. .1. r I'lia. 138 II i. i rinl.i.ii Iphia Pha. 67 Mutthows, A. |i. Brooklyn Pha 171 ,M, siii. i, Rov, l.G. Phlladi Iphla Pha. 28 MoCullough, Rov. J. B.,PottavilIe, I'a. Pha. Us Mendenhall (2), W. B., Coatesville, I'a. Pha. 4n deration, Ri r, S. I. . K. Hampton, N.Y. Pha. L3S Mllllgnn, Rev. J. I... Princeton, N. J... Pha. 40 Ullnc, Caleb J., Philadelphia Pha. I "I .Mi - n Geo. J., Huntingdon \..1|. i, I'. i I'lia. 7 Mm, in, ». H, Baltimore Bui. M.».il.vr.'i. Ii. I... Chlcngo Chi. m I\ Ml I' I.' in. ago 'lii. Morrison (2), wm. B., Coatesville, I'a.. Pha. Morford J i C, Baltimore B»l, dowry, Rev. Philip II.. Philadi Iphia Pha. duller, Henry, Baltimore Bal, duller, Lewis, Baltimore Hal. N. II. Jno. A., Philadelphia I'lia. Ogdon, .in-. II., Phil Iphlo I'lia. Owen, Rev. Griffith, Bait! * Hal. Owen, Johu, Baltimore Hal. Owen, Rev, Rogi r, Germantovi n, I'a, , Pha. I'.i i ■ i Jo Bevi 1 1] . N .i Pha. Parker, Rev. w. W, Cambrld| i U 1) Patterson, Rev, I'. I I'lia. Patterson, Edward Nev, k*ork Pha. i', ,ii. i ion, Rev. Robt., D, D., ' Ihii ii| ... < In. Patterson, Stuart, Philadelphia Pha. I'.n Mini it, II . Baltimore Hal. I'., urn. rov. r. .i i in inn miii i'i Pii Peloubet, Rev. I' v. Oakham, doss... Boa. I'h, inn. i im-. J i ha. Phillips, .llin. I, I'lia. Poerner, Rev. .1. H., Lobai Pa Hal. I '< .11... I,, .i.i- Bal. i in. in 1 1... , Philadelphia Pha, i;. .1 ' , Rev, Alex., Parkeeburg, I'a,. Pha Reeves, Ibraham Pha, Reynolds, Rov, B. I'.. Philadelphia.... Pha. Rej uold . u in , Peoi la, 1 II Pha. III,.. ml-, .in.. P., rin I. ni. ilphln Pha. Robin .hi. Rev, VV. C, Philadelphia... I'lia. Rockw I, Rev. L. I'.., Roxbui j doss. I'lia. Ri llii Howard I'lia. Ro« i. mil, I.. I',, .ii , Boston Plm Rulou, l>. i' I'll.. Iiniii, Rev. .inn Pli Sanncr, s., Haiti a- Bal. Sat ..t Henry, Philadelphia Pha. Mil., Sylvunua, I'i in.-. Inn, N. .1 Pha. Scott, R., Princeton Xhool. Sera., N. J. Phn. Bouvcr, Rev. Jos. II . SaTi m, dti Bos, Senior, Davifl I'lia Sexton, Xhos., Chicag Chi. Sin .n 1 1 . r i: , i'i inn 'ri i. Si in.. Pha. Shearer, G, I... Princeton Thool Si m Pha. Bhlllingford, II. II . Philadelphia I'lia. Shirley, .Ins I'lia. Si ii>. Petor H., Philadelphia I'lia. Simpson, Rev. A., Philadelphia Pha. Sloan, Rov. 1. 0., Philadelphia Pha. Smith, A i !., P on rheol. Bom... I'lia. Bmlth, Horace .1., Philadelphia I'lia. Smith, Rev. w m, I'lia. Snow, Ii. S., Boston Bob. Bponkman, Allan. CoateeviUo, Pa Pha Btei i. . Rov, David, Philadelphia Pha. Ston i Rei H m., Philadelphia, S. S., Baltlni 164 166 24 | I 111 5 ■I 32 411 111 V7 I Ii M ■1-2 '.'7 II l.'.l 56 92 in;, 47 176 ... I,:.; 7."i mi i, i .:i 1M I l'.l 'Jill 9 120 4 ■1 8 206 ■Jii 177 I ,il 112 27 II 604 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Stokes, Edwin L., Philadelphia Bal. Stun, Jacob S., Coatesville, Pa Bal. Snddards, Rev. W.,b.d., Philadelphia. Bal. Sutton, Rev. J. Ford, New York Bal. Swope, C. Philadelphia Bal. Taggart, Alex Pha. Talniadge, Rev. T. D., d. b., Philada... Plia. Tate, Robert S Pha. Taylor, Samuel, Philadelphia Pha. Tenney, Rev. B. P.. Groton June, Ms. Bos. Thisseli, H. N., Philadelphia Pha. Thomas, Rev. S. W., Philadelphia Pha. Thompson, Rev. Jno., New York Pha. Thompson, S. II., Princeton Theologi- cal Seminary Pha. Thompson, Wm. II.. Coateaville, Pa... Pha. Ton euro (2), Rev. I. II.. Philadelphia. Pha. Treat, Chas. R., Boston, Ms Bos. Van Wyck, Mrs. F. P., Chicago Chi. 30 36 125 1S3 132 109 134 82 •i'J 61 102 206 111 60 190 Viirnnm. A. C. Lowell, Mass Watson, Preston M., Baltimore Watson. Samuel B., Baltimore Webster, C. B.,jt.d., Norwich, CI .. .. Webster, Rev. .1. C, Hopkinson, Me." Weld, Rev. H. II.. Moorestown, N. J. Westvi 1. Rev. Hen. C, Baltimore- Williams, Cant. E. C Williams, Rev. J. W. M Wilson. Rev. R. .1 W I, Rev. Win. I! Woodworth, Mrs. J. II., Chicago. Wright, L., Baltimore Wright, Rev. W. .1 Wylie, Rev. T. W. J., D.D., Philada... Wynkoop, T.S., Princeton Thi ol.Sem.. Yale, A. S Young, Rev. J. II., Philadelphia Young, Robert A., Coatcsville, Pa rha. Ral. Bal. Iiia. Tlia. Pha. Bal. Tlia. Bal. Pha. Pha. Chi. Bal. Pha. Pha. Pha. Pha. Pha. Pha. 199 198 140 19 10 202 54 16 113 COMMISSIONED IN 1863. Abbe, Rev. F. R., Abington, Mass Bos. 471 Abbott, S S., Derby, Vt Bos. 057 Abbott, Rev. T. J., Oakdale, Mass Bos. 517 Adair, Rev. J. M dig. 1245 Adams, Edwin A., Walpole, Mass Bos. 683 Adams* Rev. .1. 11., Pittst.ui. 1'a Pha. 966 Adams, Rev. J. E., New Sharon, Me... Bos. 652 Adams, . I. R Gbg. 1242 Adamson, Rev. W. S Pha. 483 Ainsworth, Geo. A., Williamstown, Vt Bos. Albert, Rev. L. E., Germantown, Pa... Pha. Albree, Jus.. Pittsburg Pbg. Albro, Rev. J. A., d. d., Cambridge, Ms. V-». Alexander. Rev. W. S., Pomftet, Ct... Bos. Alford, J. E Gbg. Allison, Rev. Jas., Sewickley, Pa Pbg. Alvord, A., East Windsor Theol. Sem. Bos. Augell, II. It.. New York N. Y. Applegate, — , Baltimore Bal. Ashley, Rev. S. S., Northboro', Mass... Bos. Ashmead, Isaac. Philadelphia Pha. Atkins, Rev. A. B., Germantown. Pha. Plia. Atkinson, Rev. K., Cambridge, Mass.. Bos. Atkinson, Rev. Thos., Chicago Chi. Attwood, II. N., Cincinnati Hal. Bachti II. Rev. W. B.,Venangoboro', Pa. I'ha. Bacon, Jos. R., Philadelphia Pha. Rain. Bushrod, Baltimore Bal. Bainbridge, Rev. Win. F., Erie. Pa N. Y, Baird, Rev. I. N-, n. D., Beaver. Pa Pbg. Baird, Rev. Jas., Philadelphia Plia. Baird. Rev. S. J.. D.le. Woodbury, N. J. Plia. Baker, Rev. E. P., East Machiaa, Me.... Bos. Baldwin, Theo. A.. Newark. N. J Pha. Ball. Rev. Geo. II.. Buffalo, N. Y Buf. Ball. Jos. J., Quakertown, 1'a I'ha. Barber (2 1, A. C, Lambertville, N. J.. I'ha. 455 820 908 542 479 1244 524 1020 996 12;::. 3S0 244 802 610 225 1092 639 1192 674 1152 1017 1006 76S 85S 843 Barber, Geo. G., K. D., Norwalk, Ohio. Cin. 1053 Barlow, Rev. Henry Gbg. 1396 Baruitz, John, New Oxford, Pa I'ha. 893 Barrelle, Rev. Almon -\. V. 697 Barrows. Prof. 10. P.. n. !>.. Audover Theological Seminary, Mass Bos. 453 Barrows, Rev. Jno. O., Mansfield, Ct. Bos. 3S9 Barrows, Rev. W„ n. i... Reading, Ms. Ros. 392 Baxley, Claude, M. d., Baltimore Bal. 1096 Beacham, J. K., Baltimore Bal. 1088 Beaehani, Wm.. Baltimore Bal. 1087 P.. air. David .1., Princeton, N. J Pha. 243 Beattie, Chas.. Salisbury, N. Y Pha. 528 Beattie, —, M. B Gbg. 1402 Beck, Rev. F. II Pha. 12S7 Beck, Rev. Jno., Easton, Pa I'ha. 749 Berk. Rev. L. G., I'enibertoii, N. J.... Plia. 262 Beebee, Jas., h. d tin. 1145 Belden. b. M..WesteinTheul.S. in, I'a. Pbg. 683 Belfield, T. Brown, Philadelphia I'ha, 879 Bennett, J. P N. Y. 042 Bennett, — Gbg. 1398 Bent, Rev. Gilbert R., Enfield, Mass.. Bus. 654 Bergestresser, Rev. P., Nippenose, Pa. Gbg. 1238 Berry, Rev. Chas. T., Newark, N. J... Pha. 566 Bersch, Win. II Gog. 1433 Bessom, Rev. W. II.. Ceutrevjllo, Ms.. Bus. 401 Best, Rev. Jacob, Stuj vesant, N. ?.... N. Y. 481 Betts, Jno. S, Philadelphia Bal. 1137 BeugleS8(2),Rev.J.D..I'awtiixet, R.I. I'ha. 759 Bidwell.Rev. I.G., Lansingburg, N.Y. I'ha. 1169 Biggs, II. W., Cincinnati Cin. 721 Binns, Moses, Philadelphia Pha. 791 Birch,. Chas., Baltimore Bal. 1091 Bishop 2), Rev. H, Baltimore Bal. 1081 Bissex, Jas. R., Philadelphia Pha. S34 Black, Rev. E., Rising Sun, Indiana... Cin. 499 LIST OF DELEGATES. -1863 605 Bla< k w in. C Philadelphia Pha. I I! ' i . dler, II I ton, Ohio Cin. 1129 Blair, Win. II.. Dockland, Ohio Cin. 717 Slake, Rev.G. II . Ashburnham, Mass. Bo8. 1277 Blayney.J Mi I luski f, Ontario, Ohio. Pbg. 408 Wis-, Rev. Prof. G 1!.. D.D., Cnlver- Bitj ,t Lev, i i urg, Po Gbg. 1397 Boardmau, Jr., Henrj a., Philad'a.... Pha. 77'.' Boardman, K i W m E, Philad'a Pha. 390 Bogg i on, N.J Pha. 1084 Boggs, .in". 11., Pittsburg, Pa Pbg. 457 Bb'hriuger, Rev. Bman, Philadelphia. Pha. 1007 Bond, S. M. Baltii Bal. 1 •*■-■' > Hi. i i. I'. 1'.. Now Concord, Ohio Cin. 11-7 i Jas. H., Baltimore Bill. 1193 Boston, — . Baltimore Bal. 1112 Boswortb, i: •• i...\..u Springfiold,Ms. Pha. 1394 Bonghton, R r. Pel r, Di troll K. Y. 1209 Bourne Ri i Jaf B . Oak Hill, Me ... Bos. 1100 a, Rev. N., D.B., Concord, N. II. Bos. 300 Bowlei (2 . Rev.S I... Orono, Me Bob. 403 Boyd Pliro S., Vudover Tin"] Sem. Bos. -I.'il Il..\l."-J . I.i i Jno., New York N. V. '.'72 Boyntou, F. II.. Andover Theol. Sem. Bos. 456 Bradford, Rev, Lucius, Brooklyn, Me- Bos. 267 Bradford, Rev. Thos. T., Brie, l'a Pha. 1042 r i. I;, v. I. II.. Philadelphia Bal. 1 194 rno.,M.D.,NewBrun8wick,NJ..Pha. 883 Brai .1. r Gbg. 1399 i. i I. Rev.G. A . Zanesville, Ohio. Cin. 1132 Bridgman, Jos. C, Springfield, Mass.. Bos. 596 Bridgman.S E., Northampton, Mass.. Bos. 595 i iiir-i I , Rev. Geo., Philad'a.... Pha. Briscoe, Prank I' . Pliiladelphia Pha. 249 I !.-. W. K.,Baugor Theol. Sem.... Bos, 666 Brown,Rev. I., Chicago Chi. Brown, Rev. Azra, Cincinnati Cin. 726 I- S. II . Sill- 1, in-, l'i Pbg. '77 Brown, I'... Baltimore Bal. 1096 Brown, D, H osteni T'l I Sem., Ps PI Hi, hi n, i:h P., Baltimore Hal. 1041 Brown, B. II i getown, D. C Wn. :>7n Hi, a i Baltimore Bal. 1030 Brown, Rev. J. II.. Pi port, Pa. Pbg. C86 Brown, Rev. Jno. V7, Baltl re Bal. 1186 Brown, Mrs. Mary, Cincinnati Cin. 718 Brown, Rich. W.,m.d., Baltimore Bal. 1085 Brown, Wm. Uobart, Philadelpliia Pha. *7s Browne (2 , A. K.. A'iUiamaport, l'a... Pha. 986 1 ' • | , n, ilinali Hal. 1" '1 Hi l, ml. H' i '• M 11m i ,1, N. II Bos. 1-s" Bncher, Rev. T. P Gbg, 1240 Buck, Rev. C. II., I hi ti r, Mam... Boa, ''II i i N. V. 480 ii I ,ii,, ,,i Si in.. Ma i;.,.. in.- Bunki i A., Ni ii i, ii TI I. Sem , Ms.- Bos. 74:; Bunker, M a. Newton Theol. Seni... Bns. 1021 ',, II., m. n„ Philadelphia... Pha. 77n Burke, S. D., iluntingtoi), Cin. 710 Bumell, K. A., Milwaukee. Wis Chi. 734 Burnell, Miss Mary, Milwaukee, Wit St. L. 1262 Burnett, £. S., West Philadelphia Pha. 809 Burnhnm, Rev. C, Meredith Vilbi V II Bos. 1275 Burns, J. H., Baltimore Bui. 1089 Burns, Jno., Gettysburg, l'a Gbg. 1197 Burns, J. T., h. D, Balti e Hal. 1082 Burns, S « , Newark, H ". J Pha. •"•7."» Burns, Wm. — , Mass Bal. 1086 Burson, .1. W Hal- I L90 Burton, — HI'S. 1220 Hurl,-, Rev. .1. EI, Nev, l.,ik Pha. 849 Bush, Aiuaiii., Franklin, N'. V N. V, 126 Bushnell, Rev. ll„ Ailensville, End ... I in. 1131 Butler, Jas B, rim, , ton, N. .1 Pha. 867 Butli-r.Sai.il. M, Philadelphia Pha. 224 Butterfield, Rev. H.Q.,Gt.FallB,N.H. Bos. 1038 Buxton, T. C, Haiti '• Bal. 1080 111,,. II,,, n.i.ii. H..U Vihu I, Nil. Pha. 11JB Calloway, Rev. C. M , Balti re Bal. 1435 Campbell, Rev. 1!,, D.D., \, « ,i,iii. Mass Bos. 042 Canfield, Wm. B.. Baltii -e Hal. 1028 Carback, E, Baltimore Hal. 931 Carle S. H, W. Concord, N II..... Bos. 516 Cl in.. I. V. \-lilanil. II Till. 720 Carpenter, D. M„ Fitchburg, Mass HI, a. 004 Carroll, Jno., Baltimore Hal. 952 Carson.C. II,. Hal re Hal. 7^7 Carson, Rev. Jas. I-:.. Detroit Det. 711 Carson, Rev. .1. G., Claysville, l'a HI, a. 671 Carson, Thos. A.. Seneca, N. V HI, a. il-",7 Castle, Rev. .1. II., » . Philad'a Pha. 804 Cattell, Rev. T. W, Princeton, N. J... HI'". 786 Cattell, Rev. Wm. C., Ilarriabnrg, Pa.. Pha. 750 Chalk... Rev. R. A., Pennington N -i Pha. 825 Chamberlain, Rot. .Tun. c. i Theol. Sem., Me Bos. 6S5 Chandler, Rev. 1., Brattleboro, Vt Bos. mil Chapin, Rev. Qi Philadelphia Hal. 059 Chapin, Rev. Geo. F., Newport, N. H Pha. 666 Chapin, I., II. , Hill. am, Ma-s Bos. 473 Chase, Rev. Jas. M Chi. 1251 Rev. John E., Schuylkill Kail-. Philadelphia Pha. 806 Chew, Samuel, M.»., Baltimore Hat. 953 Chew, S. c , ». i',. Halt, m. in- H.,1. 956 Chidlaw(2), Rev. B. W., Cleves, Pha. 891 I K . Baltimore Hal. 957 Clark, Rev. Geo. W, Newcastle, Pa... Pbg. 497 Clark, H. A., Fitcbburg, Ma- Pha. 903 Clark, .1, \„ W« hington l'a Pha. 878 Clark 3. \ Gbg. 1206 Clark, Rev. W. C, Qrovi Ian I, Us B -. 1014 Clark, W hi M Pha. 248 Clarke, Rev. 11. s . Andover Theol. Si in,. Ma- Bos. 394 ison, Jno. W, Philadelphia. Pha, 230 606 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Cline. Rev. E. C, Phillipsburg, N. J... Pha. 960 Olov, 2), Geo. W v Watervine, Me Bos. 046 Cobine; Jas. R., Franklin; N.Y Pbn. 60S Coffin, Seldon J., Eastern, Pa Pha. 1077 Coggsliall. II. S., Fitchbtirg, Mass Pllfl. 902 Ckiit, Chas. W., Norwich, CI Pha. 507 Coit, Rev. Joshua, Brookfield, .Mass... Bos. 1018 Collier. L. A . Baltimore liul. 1025 Cole, Cornelius M, Baltimore Hal. 924 Colmery, D. R., Pleasant Ridge. Cin. 723 Colt, Rev, Saml. v., Pottaville, I>a Pha. S41 Coltou, Chas. C, Lowell, Mrss Bos. 477 Colton, Jos. S . Princeton, N. .1 Pha. 983 Conkling, Rev. ('., Oberlin, O Lou. 730 Conrad, Ephraim. Baltimore Hal. 991 Cook, Rev. Russell S., New York N.Y. 447 Coolidge, Rev. A. II., Leicester, Mass. Bos. 980 Cooperj Rev. G. W Bal. 9S7 Coplin, Alnnson N.Y. 603 Copp, Rev. J. A., n. d.. Chelsea, Mass. Ros. 586 Oornelison, Rev. I., Uetamora, 111 N. Y. 439 Cornell. Vi m. M., mi,., Philadelphia.. Pha. 961 Cornel*, Xhos., Baltimore Bal. 956 Oorrell, Jos. B, Philadelphia Pha. 247 Cortelyou, Rev. T.F, Montg -ry, t>. Cin. 722 Coulston, Rev. T. P.. FranklV.nl. Pa... Pha. 835 Courtlan, J., Baltimore Bal. 779 Cowan. .Inn., N.w York Pha. 1343 Cowpland, Joshua. Baltimore Bal. 86S Cowpland, Joshua, Jr., Philadelphia.. Pha. 958 Cozzens, Thos., Baltimore Bal. 1236 Cozzens, Wm. D., Philadelphia Pha. 22s Crane. Rev. E. X . New York N. Y. 993 Crane, Rev. .1. T, d.d., Newark, N.J.. Phn. 669 Crawford, .la... Philadelphia Hal. 1027 Crawford, Rev. .las. M„ Argyle, N. Y. Pha. 1289 Crawford, J. S., K.D., W.Alex'der.Pa. Pha. 862 Crawford, Thos. 0., Philadelphia Pha. 279 Critcbfielil. Rev. N. IV, New Lexing- ton, Pa Pha. 1213 Crook, Francis A.. Baltimore Ral. 1024 C I. I.D. K.,Balti re Ral. 1022 Cross, Rev. A. B., Baltimore Ral. 1029 Crouch, Rev. C. .1., Philadelphia Pha. 1010 Cim« Rev, N. K., Mariana, 111 Pha. 963 Crowell, Rev. .1. M., Philadelphia Pha. 792 Cummings, J. C, Philadelphia Pha. 216 Onmmings, Rev. Silas s.. Mboaup, Ot. Bos. 1390 Curry, W. H- Shrewsbury, Mass Bal. 025 Gushing, Rev. 8. A., Shrewsbury, Mb.. Boa. 603 Dalrymplo, w.. m o„ Baltimore Bal. 729 Dalzell, Rev. «.. Hannverton, Ohio-. Plig. 912 Dardis, Francis, Philadelphia.... Pha. 1105 Darley, Jno. \V.. Baltimore Ral. 72S Darling, .1. A., Erie, Pn Pha. 702 Daac b, Rev. A. B„ Waitsfield, Vt... Ros. 540 Havel , S. M., Baltimore Bal. 754 Davidson, W. I, Baltimore Bal. 755 Davies, J. W Bal. 752 Davis, Rev. Jan., Blairsville, Pa Pbg. 1190 Davis, Marcus A., Philadelphia Pha. s47 I>a\is. Paul A . Philadelphia Pha, S 12 Day, Albert, Boston Pha. 88b Hay, Rev. A. W., Troy, Michigan Ret. 1225 Hay. Wi„. .T.. Philadelphia Pha. 588 Dayan, Rev. .1. F„ llion, N. Y Pha. 12s5 DeBeck, W. I,., Cincinnati Cini 1060 Decker, — Gbg. 1244 Deering. Rev.Jno. K..S. Franklin, Me. Ros. 1113 DeForrest, Ezra. Baltimore Ral. 767 DeForrest, Rev. J. A.. Haverhill, Mass. Ros. 940 DeLaMatyr, G.; Baltimore Bal. 769 He ml 121, Chas., Boston Ros. 474 Denhain, Rev. Geo., Chelsea, Mass Pha. 256 Denisnn, Rev. And. C, Portland. Ct... N. Y. 534 Dennison, D,, Andover Theol. Sem..'.. Ros. 949 Dickson, Rev. Cyrus. Baltimore Ral. 753 Dickson. Rev. Wm., Calcutta, Ohio.:.. Pbg. 1204 DiIks,W. S Gbg. 1246 Diossy. Rev. II. K.. Conn.. I'. S. A N. V. 1067 Doane* Rev. Hiram, Carthage, N. Y. X. Y. 440 Holder, Geo., Baltimore Ral. 751 Hodd, Miss Eva Chi. 1250 Hodge, Austin, New liuryport, M;iss... Ros. 1115 Boolittlo, E. 1)., New York N. Y. 1 1 '7 . > Douglass, Rev. J. I... Bassein,Burmab. Pha. 929 Douglass, Rev. Rich. H.. New York.... N. V 1000 Dowden, Rev. W. II.. I'elhani, Mass... Bos. 472 Dowse. Rev, Edmund, Sherborn, Mass. Bos. 7o7 Drown, Geo. P., K X. II Ros. 357 Dun", Win. A., Philadelphia Pha". 776 Dunlap, Robert Gbg. 1245 Dunn, Alex Pha. 220 Dunning, Rev. — , D. n., Baltimore Ral. 669 Dntton, A. I.. Andover Theol. Son). Ros. 400 Duval, It. H Gbg. 1247 Duval, Wm. G., Harford co.. Md Ral. 727 Dyer,* Rev. A. R., 'Harmony, Me Ros. Iir.a; livm I, B. F., Jamaica Plain, Mass. Bos, 387 Eastburn, Moses, Philadelphia Hal. 635 Eastburn, Robert, Philadelphia Ral. 634 Eastman, Rev. Chi. Eaton. Bev. W. II., Nashua, N. II Ros. 467 Ebberle, C. L.iW;D.,Germantown, Pa. Pha. 819 Eddy, Rev. T. M., D. Ii„ Chicago Chi. 614 Edes,W.H., Georgetown. D.C. ... Wn. 372 Edie. Rev. .T. A Chi. 1255 Edwards, Thos., Baltimore Ral. 632 Bells, Rev. D. It., Vermont, III Pha. 985 Eells, Rev. .las., n.ii., Brooklyn Pha. 1175 Bldredge, Jas. II.. Philadelphia Pha. s;;:; Ellis, A. W., Oxford, Ohio Cin. 1062 Kllis. Rev. J. A Chi. Ely, Isaac, Philadelphia Hal. 633 Emery, Rev. Win. S„ Palmyra, Ra Pha. 968 Emmons, Rev. H. V., Pembroke, Me. X. Y. 1073 Ensigin2), F. G., Chicago (Cong.) Theol. Sem Chi. 615 list of i>i:i.i:, Rel R. Steubon, N. Y Pha. 1288 Foster, Rev. \ s . Harrison City, Pa.. Pbg. 910 Foster, Ri v, D., W. Newbury, Mass... Bos. 1271 i R S Bal. 626 i H S., Malm liiil. S92 r iv i . Ju \ Bal. 630 I I ii. in v J., New Y..rk Bal. 628 [1 ri Ii Ipbla Pho Franklin, Rev. B., Saline, Mich Del 1218 ■i. i: D. Baltl -• Bal Ii. .in hi. II. v .1. M . Ilav.r.lrau. X.Y. I'h, ; n i.r. M Elizabeth, X. .1 Pha. B52 Flick, E. A i.i. .in i iniii.i..i|.iiKi- riu. 28 i: in .h i, . Lnsonlau, ri... X. Y. 615 Full i i: i i > \\ illiamsville, Yt.. Bub. 990 Gajbi mi. i: i R C, Baltimore Bal. 443 Galbi ..ih. Rev. W., Freeport, Pa Pbg. 689 ii.il. . Geo .ii ii. Galaavllle, Wis I'll i 1356 Qanse,Re\ Elervey D., New York N. V. 4ls Gan .1 I., Baltimore Bal, 145 Gardner, J. W., Baltimore Bal. in Gawetle, Rev. E.Y., MUbury, Ma-... Bos. 514 Gaston, Rev. Win., Smith's Ferry, Pa. Pha. 676 Gaston, Rov. Win. E., Liver] I 0.... Pbg. 1201 Gehr, Rov. Nicholas, Philadelphis Bal, MB Goldard, Rov. W. It X. Y. 688 Gerhard, Wm„ Philadelphia . Pho 926 Gibbons, Abral Coatesvllli . Po Pha iiii.s Alex. E., Baltimore Bal 5 - Gibson,— Bui. 621 Giddings, Rev. S. M., Brooklyn Pha. B16 Glcsy, Rev. Saml. H., Philadelphia... Pha. 898 Gilbert, Rev. G. S., New York Bal Gih hrist, arch. C, Cincinnati Cin. II II Olnter, Dnv Gbg. 1608 roy(2), Rev. It. It. Ni v 1 ork Pha). 11711 G il... W. II X. v. 587 Go 11. il W.L., Bh Bal. 683 Gosnell, — , Baltimore Bal. Gover, E. L., Baltimore Bal. 44-j Hi mi. .las.. Philadelphia Pha. 77a Grape, Geo. S., Balth '0 Bal. 562 1, T., Andover Theol. Sem.. Ms. B..s. 376 I., ,i. 1:. r. A s. Cortland V 1 Pha. 1 182 R iv. Fred'k V Y 996 Graves, Rev. E. W., Philadi [phi 1 n. 1 699 Greenwood, S Gbg. 1504 Gn ' Rev, Wuu B.. Phili phi 1. Bal. 186 Grice, Geo. \\'., Philadelphia Phn. 829 Griffin, Rev. II. II.. I'llil:ul..||.liia Bill. 503 Griffln, Geo. H, New Yo Pha. 666 Griffith, C. r... Qei-mantown, Phila'da. Phn. 938 Griffith, Rich., Philadelphia I'lm. 231 I: .... .1 S, N. .. ,-il... I'a Pbg. 52(5 tini.i.v. Rev. Jas., Alton, 111 N v. 149 Guthrie, 11. «'., Goshen, Cin. 7'-'l Guyheysinger, Rev. .1 I. Gbg. 1507 il igj H in . Philadalphio . Pha. 281 Hale, Rev. Geo., Pennington, X..I... Pha. MI ii.-iii. Rev. S. II.. k. n.. Ow. go \ . \ ... Phn. 1 1 ns llaiiil.l,:|.,ll.l;i.v.M'..I..IIl...i.li.!.l. Ma Bos. 1162 Hamilton, Rev. B. K., Andover 'I'l I. Sera., Moss Bos. 399 Hamilton, Rev.E.J.,TJlstervillc, N.Y.. Pha. 1218 Ham ml. Rev. Jos. R., Dam cotta, He X. V i 1 1 .■ ii- > i;.\ i;.iiiiiiii.i.'.ia.-i..ir..', N.J. i'l. . Han-. .ii. Judge B. II ill. 1505 Harkinaon, J., Philadelphia Pho Hail. v. Milt. .n P., Philadelphia I'lm. 706 Barman, Rev. B.F.. Pleasant Rid e Cin. 1068 llanis. Rev. Isaac, Etna, X Y Pha. 1431 Il hi a- .1 i: Philadelphia Ph >. 798 ii .1 i, . Rev. VI W .riii.ii.... Chi I 14 Hart, Rev. E. .1 Hoi Nil Bos I7n Harvey, D. II . Ni « Conci rd, ' In. 1128 Harvey, Wm., Detroit Det. 7ns n a-i. .11, Rev. Ezra, Canton, Mast Bus. 40*1 608 ANNALS OF THE CHIMSTIAX COMMISSION. Hastings, F. \v.. w. Philadelphia Pha. Hastings, Levi G-, Beaver Co., Pa Pha. Hatch, 1,. n.. Oxford, Cin. Haven, A. 11., Cambridge, Mass Bos. Ilaw.s. Itev. K.lwai M "alerville, Me.. Bits. Hawley, Rev. .1. A.. Ripon, Wis Chi. Hayes,* Henry, m.d., Dcrry, N, II Bog. Hays, J. I... Philadelphia Pha. Hemstreet, Oliver, Carlisle, N. Y Pha. Henderdino, Jno. E. Bal. Henderson, Jno. A.. Lumherville, Pa. Bal. Henderson, Sam. M.. Bowerstown, 0.. Pbg. Ili'mtv, .1. F., Princeton Theol. Sem... Pha. Henry, It. W llal. llensler. .Ins.. Balti re Bal. Herring, Rev. C. M., Dover, Me Bos. Herring, T). X.. Baltimore Bal. Hess, TV. J., Baltimore Bal. Heydenburk, M.. Kalamazoo, Mich... Cin. Heysinger, Rev. .1. I... W .Chester, Pa. Pha I T i — 1 .CI];!-., treuton, N. J Pha. Iliel.ee, Key. K. E.. Pittsburg, Pa Pbg. High, Rev. \V. C., Lynn, Mass Bos. Hill. ii.s.. II . Norristown, Pa Pha. Hill, .In... IK. M.I... Buffalo Pha. llink. Lewis. Baltimore llal. I!iiis,.n. i;..\ . .1. M.. Philadelphia Pha. Hogg, .'as . Philadelphia Pha. Holden, Jas C, New v..rk Pha. Holliday, Wm., Baltimore ' Bal. Holnian, Rev. C, Rochester, X. II n..s. Hrtlman, s. L., Beekmanville, N. Y... Pha. Hi.lstein, rt , Pa Pbg, Hashes. Rev. T. E.. Springfield, Ohio. Cin. Humphrey, Rev. P. E Pha. Hunt. (I. II. B., Baltimore Bal. Hunt, J. 1!., Baltimore llal. Hunt, .1. S., Richmond, iml Tin. Hfiflbnrt, N. A„ Buffalo. N. Y Pha. Hum, Rev. Henry F., Philadelphia... Pha. IIiiss.v, Rev. Jno., Lockland, Ohio Cin. Huston, Chas., M. n Ol.g. Hutchinson, E. s Bal Ton 1040 I HI. 10M 1034 923 mil 7S2 529 432 4 41 4119 620 4::i 437 1164 430 4'Js 559 si',' I 705 060 H74 707 1182 438 774 1120 ssr, 4:;;. 73.'. 935 in (3 010 ■I '.'7 1059 VI. I 301 263 7::s 653 433 703 691 inns [866 1281 1055 1176 429 184 1134 llsl 807 710 1500 430 Hutchinson, N.. Lanibertville, N. .1... Pha. 1008 Hyde, Edmund a. — , Ct N.Y. 1241 lies. ill- Miss Emma, Memphis, Tenn. si. I.. 1263 Ireland, Jno. B., Baltimore Hal. 394 Irwin, .Ii'.. .In.... Sewn klewille. Pa Pbg. ''.04 tves, .'..s. P.. Boston Bos. 407 •Tack, Lewis, w. n., Germantown, Pa... Pha. SIS Jackson, Rev. S.. Rochester, Minn Chi. 618 Jacobs, Rev. B. T., Meredith, N. Y,... \. Y. 586 Jacobus; [., Bangor Theol. s Me.. Bos. 605 Jacoby, Washington, Quakercown,Pa. Pha. 859 .' is, II. AY., m. r... Philadelphia Pha. 881 .1: -, li.. m.d., Philadelphia Pha. 549 .lames. Jno. E., Philadelphia PI. a. 851 .laiiiesnii. Rev, A.. Baltimore llal. 372 ■ i. -mi. Andrew Hal. 881 Janes(2), 11. -v. E. S., n.n., New York.. Pha. 278 Janey, H. M.. Baltimore Bal. 392 Jeffers, E. 1' Pbg. 020 Jeffery, Rev. Reuben, a a .. Philad'a... Pha. 7S1 Jelly, Rev. A. M, ay .st Philad'a Pha. 1106 Jenkins (2),C.\V., BarigorThcol. Sem, Boa, 1020 Jennison, Rev. C . < Ihicago Chi. 422 Jennison, Rev. Jos. r. Pontiac, Mich. Chi. 713 Jewell, Rev. Jool, W. Newark, N. Y... Pha. 1117 Johnson, Rev. A. H., Augusta, Me Bos. 068 Johnson (2),Rev.A.P.,Charle nt,Ms. Bos. 072 Johnson, Rev. Edwin, Bangor, Me Bos. 465 Johnson, Rev. II. II Bal. 371 Johns I. II Hal. 370 Johnson, Ilev. P.. S., Gnlesburg, III.. . Pha, 073 .i.n.ii- \\ m. II.. Philadelphia. Pha. 551 Johnson, — , m. d., Baltimore Bal. 393 Johnsl Ilev. . I B., St. Clairsville, O. Pha. 700 Jones, Rev. Ii. W., Evanston, III Chi. 1163 Joni -. I i ■' . \ alley Grove, West Vn.. Pha. 7n4 .1 s. \v. M.. Baltimore Hal. 1183 Junklu, Rev. lie.,., n a , philad'a Pha. 1050 Katnmeier. T. A.. PittsblU*g Pbg. 661 K.an, ilev. w. F.. Freoport, Pa Pbg. 6S7 Keel. l. Ilev. ,i. |, Iwelllall, Pa I'llll. 1201 Kei ley,S, » . Oxford, Mass Bos. 1151 Keeling, Rev. R. J., Washington, D .C. Gbg. 1614 Keelllie.HeV.N H..N .1 -1 1 I 1 Ig I . .11 CO. 1' ' Pbg, Oil Keen. C. H Gbg. 1513 Keen. lie,.. Y., Ha 1 1 inioiv Hal. 367 Keelie, Ilev I... X. Hi,.,.kliel,l. Mas- Bos. 1165 Kelker, I M . Harrisburg, Pa Pha. 1047 Kellogg, Rev, D. mis. Philadolphis Pha. 905 Kemp, X. P., Boston Pha. 259 Keinie.lv, Prof A. I, (lllg. 1615 Kenny, Rev. E. J., Philadelphia Pha, 840 Ken, Alex., Philadelphia Pha. 221 Kimball (2), 0., U.S., Lawrence, Mass. lies. 1015 Kimball, Rev. Jno., New York Pha, 547 Kimball, W, s . \.u burypoi t. Mass... Bos. 045 King, Ubertus, Philadelphia Pha. 235 Kingdon, Rev. Jno., Baltimore Hal. 368 Kirkpatrick, Alex., Philadelphia. Pha. 763 LIST OF DELEGATES. — L863. G09 Snipper, C. n Bal. 1612 Kochor, Rot. Poter, Newark, N. .1 Bal, 869 Kb'nlgmacher, A. A, Philadelphia Plia. 387 Kn i. Rov.. .W., Freehold, N.J. Pha. 1896 Labnreo, Rev. J. ('.. Sterling, Mji^-^ Bos. 1037 l.a.l.l. Horatio Pha, 184 Laing, Chae., Philadelphia Pho. 894 I.iunl.li, Gbg. 1817 Lambert, Rev. A. B., n.n., Salem.N. Y Pbg. 491 Laudis(2), Rev. J. I... Waverly, Pa Pha, 928 Lapsley, Rev. Jas. K... Indiana. Pa Pbg. 678 l,a-ij|, v, Lmesbury, Mass Bos. 376 Lathrop, Rev. Henry l>., Lancaster, 0. Cin. 12'.i4 Latimer, Ihos., Philadelphia Pha. six Lawrence, Rev. J., Reading, Mass Bos. 468 LAwrence, W. A. Pepperell,Ml Huh Lee, Win.. Baltimore Bal. 860 Lemclte, Rev. II. Q. II Gbg. 1511 Lennig, .las Gbg. 1609 Lennig, Jos., Germsntown, Pa Pha. 821 Lent, Rev. Mil. E. Chatham, N. Y... Pha. 1214 I lard, .in... Qalcsburg, 111 Clii. 621 Lester, Rei u IL, w. Alexander, Pa. Pha. S63 Lewis, E, P., Washington, Pa Pha. 681 Lewis, Richard, u. D., Philadelphia Pha. 865 Lewis, II. I. Ill IS, A., Wan. Mass 11ns. 518 Lil l)i ""I Ri i. M F..N.wl'altz. I.au.l- ing, N. y Pha. sni Liggett, Martin H. [ckesburg,Fa Pha. 706 Linn, S. P . VI estern Thool. Sem., Pa.. Pbg, 495 Lipscomb, J. D., Baltimore Bal. 364 Litchfield, D. C, Oldtown, Me Bos. 666 Littelle, Rev, D. S N. Y. 694 Little, Rev. Chas. J., Philadelphia Pha. 824 Little, Robert, Baltimore Bal. 865 Minefield, i: M . Haverhill, Ms Bos. 611 Looher, Goo., Haiti re Bal. 368 1 leer, Rev. Geo., Philadelphia I'ha. 864 Loomis, Rev. I'.. Littleton, Mass It".. 4.V' I s.Israel P., West Chester, Ot... Pha. H4n I i-. Rev. President J. 1!.. i.l.h.. University tl Lowisburg, Pa Pha. 906 I mi-. Rev. VF. I'.. Shelbnrne Falls, Mass Bos. 670 Lore, Rev. Dallas P., Buffalo, N. Y Pho. 587 Lovett, Siuiil. W., m.d Bal. 361 Loweree, T. W., Newark, N. .1 Pha. a74 Lowry, David P., Allegheny City, Pa. Pbg. 410 Loyd Rei J T Xenla, Cin. 7:.. Ludlow, Rev. Jas, P., Roi hester, N. If. Pha. 951 Lukens, Ihos., Philadelphia Bal. 362 Lybrand, R - Q W., Cheltenham, Pa. Pha. 692 Lyford(8), Rev. Chas. P., Rome^N. Y.. Pha. 41is Lyford(2), Mrs. B. A., R N. Y Pha. 417 M.i. Rev. ,1 «., » Dnminerst'n, Yi. Bos. 989 M icll i R. i D M Montgomery, N.Y. N. Y. 801 Uacy, Jared, Now York N.Y. 1001 Ualaney, V. <'... Chester Co., Pa. Bal. 1828 Jlallali.ii, Rich., Baltimore Bal. 1521 77 Ma! nisi an v. Rev. Caleb, Newark, N.J. Pha. 21 5 M 2), Josae B., Pawtui kot, R. I... Boa, 801 Hi Win. II.. Philadelphia Pha. ^7" March, Rev. Hani , Philadelphia Pha. 880 Ma nli' n. RoV.GoO. N.,BoxborO T , Hi-. BOS. all Marks, Rov. I., Pa irsville, Pa Pbg. 192 Marsh, M. \\ .. Bos Bal 1827 Marsh, Oliver, ct.i.an Chi. 421 Marsb(2). Rev. W. II. II.. \v. Phlla...! Pha. 805 Marshall, II. II., Baltl re.. Hal. 1826 Marshall. \Y. 11 Gbg. 1840 .Martin. Rev. Win. M., W iridge . n 1 530 Massey, Rov. .1 N. V 548 m . i , J.C Pbg. 021 Mason, Edgar M., Phlladelphiu Pha. 217 Mather, l'hos. P., Philadelphia Pha. 246 Matlack, Jos. K., Baltl re Bal. 1527 Matlack, Rev. Rout. C, Philadelphia. Pha. 788 M. mi.., I,, Rev, \N. C, Tyrone, V Y... N. Y. 641 Maul], Win. \Y„ Louisville Pha. 758 Maval, Rev, J. M . WllliamSb'g, NY. I'ha. 1212 McAfee, Jos., PhoenlxvlUe, Pa Pha. ss 7 M. Aul.v .in. Rev. Alox. it.. Phlhi Pha, 289 McAnloy, Rev. M. J., Philadelphia.... Pha. 965 Mel larroll, Jno., m. i>., Prankford Springs,Pa Pha. 487 McClellan, Rev. Jas., Evansl III.... Pha. 661 McClellan, J. 8., W. Philadelphia I'ha. 901 McOIelland.J. P., Philadelphia Bal. 1624 MoClure(2), 9. T., West'n II I. Sem. Pbg. 468 McColiom, Rev.J.T., Bradford, Mas Bos. 1274 McCord, .las Bal. 1680 McCullongh, Rov. J. B., Philftdelpliia. Pha. 7s4 M. Curdy, Rev. T. A.. I hburg, Pa.. Pbg. 686 McDongall, Rev. A. M.. Dryden, N. Y. I'ha. Hits McBlwoe, Roht, Philadelphia. I'ha. 970 \t, i, ii. ni. Jno., Smith's Ferry, Pa ... I'ha. s;t McGav, (2), Rov. J. A, P.,Sagi town, III. Chi 1 186 McGinley, Rev.W.A., Shrowebnry, Ms, I'ha. ssi McGlnnis, Rev. Wm., Cadiz, O Pbg. 918 HcGowanl 2), Rei Jas. A.. Philad'a... Pha. 1103 M, tntyre, .1 H ,, st Louis I'ha. 1184 Mi Eee, Rev. Sam). V., Peru, 1ml I'm. in:; MoEee, u. ];.. \Y. Hebron, N. Y I'ha. 1287 Mi Kiiiii'i.v. Rev. Edmund, Princeton Tl I. Sem., N. .1 I'ha 284 McLaughlin, Alex Pha, 954 McLaughlin, Rov. Geo. \Y.. German- town, l'a I'ha. S22 Mi Laughlin, Jas., Pittsburg Pbg. 1188 McLean, Rev.A.H.,n.n.,BeaverCo., Pa. Pbg. 622 McLoan(2),Rov.S.A .« Mexandei l'a. Pha, B60 McLeish, Rev. — , Lyons, Iowa ("hi. 624 M.I..I..I. Roi H., Brentwood, N. H... Boi. 406 M. i i. Rev, — , ii. n Hal 1529 Mi Mill. ,n,2i. Rev.J., Mleghi nj City. Pbg. 461 Ml Mil 2), .las ('., \,„,a, II I'ha, Sss M. Wattj i;, i it, i, i.. Mi i, , r, Pa PI -. 688 M i, ii.iiu. Rev. .' 11.. New York I'ha. 659 610 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. M Is.(2), Jas. I!. Ii.. Pittsburg Pbg. 679 M - ker, Rev. I). ('., Walh Pn Pha. 082 Megie, Rev. Ii. c, Dover, N. .1 Pha. 679 Meldojensein, Pha. 1203 Meloy, J. C, Claysville, Pa Pha. 572 Meredith, Jno. F Bal. 1617 Meredith, Jos Gbg. 1330 Merrick, Stephen, Philadelphia Bal, 1538 Merrifleld, Rev. K. P,,Ver it N. Y. 1069 Merrill, Rev. Saml. II.. Portland, Me.. Bos. 609 Men-ill, Rev. S. P., Carleton, N. Y But'. 1344 Metcair, E. W, Bangor, Me Bos 1040 Michael, Channcey, I. N. \ 646 Milby, K. % Irtliui V7, Philadelphia. Pha. 282 Miles, Rev. J. B., Charlostown, Mass.. Bos. 607 Millard, Washington Chi. 623 Miller, II. Thane, Cincinnati Bal. 1534 Miller, Jas., W. Philadelphia Pha. '.tin Miller(8), J. R., Calcutta, Pbg, 397 Miller, Mitchell H., Washington Wn. 238 Millerd(2), Rev. C, Milwaukee 1 732 Milne, Caleb ■'., Philadelphia Pbg. 4so Milne, K. K., Philadelphia Pha. 281 Mills, Win Bal. 1532 Milton, W. II ill.-. 1588 Mingins(2), Rev. Geo. .1., Phitiid'n Pha, 667 i I., Rev. S. II.. Lowlsburg, Pn ... Gb| 1381 Mitchell, Geo. II., M.D., Philadelphia.. Pha. 969 Mitchell, Win ill,-. 1589 Mill, in. Wm. II Hi, I. 1525 M. ,11. ill.. V Gbg. I'll" Monroe, .hi". T.. Philadelphia Bal. 1829 Moore, .1. 1'.. Bangor 11 1. Sein., Me. 1!,,.-. 512 Moorhcad,J.D.,West'n Tl l.Sera.,Pa. Pbg. 493 Morford, .Ins. I' |!i,i L618 Morgan, G. E . Bull ,■ Bal. 1522 Morris, Rev. 1!., Sew York N. Y. 1074 Morrison,—, m. n Gbg, L5S8 M Ii, -v. (1. I! . Chicag Chi. 420 Murss, Rev. Geo. II.. Ilnirul, Muss Bos. 582 Morton(2),Rev.R,S.,Hookstown,Pa. Pbg. 4SS M s. Rev. Th Exeter, N. II n,,s. 1272 Moss, Jas. A., Philadelphia Pha. 218 Moss, Rev. Lemuel, Worcester, Mass... H<>s. 1270 Mi, ii, ir, I is, Baltimore Bal. 1520 Minis,, n i2i, M.A..Aii,I,,v,,|'TIi,,,,I.S,iii. l!,,s. 398 Murphy, Miss iintii,, Chi. 1210 Murphy, Rev. Ihos. C, Philadelphia.. Pba. 793 Murphy, Rev. Thos. G., Dovor, Di I Bnl. 1523 Myers, Henry, Baltimore Bnl. 1628 Myers, .). A Gbg. 1635 Myers, Rev. Thos Bal. 1519 Nason, Chas. I'. II.. Exeter, N. II Bos. .'Mi Vis,, ii. Rev. Klins, Exeter, N. H Bos. 896 Nisill. E. M.. m.b., Philadelphia Pha. 77S Neill, .las.. Philadelphia Pha. 765 Nelson, Rev.W. P., Chaplain, I S. A. Cin, 1056 Newkirk, Rev. M...ir.. Downlugt'n, Pa. Pha. 897 Newman, Jacob, linlil i' But. 1516 Ncvin, Robert P., Sowickloyville, Pa.. Pbg. 863 Noble, Rev. T. K., Bangor Theol. Sem. Bos. 511 Noiris, Rev. W. II.. Brooklyn, N. V... Pha. 593 Norton, Edward, Kssr\. Ms Bos. 979 Norl II. M., Phillipsburg, N. J Pha. *27 Norton, Rev. .1. D., Newcastle, Pa Pbg. 525 Norton, Rev. Warren, Chicago Chi. 019 Noyes, Henry V., Guilford, Pa Pbg. 412 Oakey, Rev. I'. D., Jamaica, N, V N. Y. 094 i'n. Rev. Franklin, Kent, Pa Pbg. 1198 Orr, J. M., Fairhaven, Ohio Pha. 415 iisii.irin\ Rev.Cyrus !'.. Exeter, N. II. N. Y. 268 Osborne, Rev. E. A.. Newark, N.J Pha. 564 Osborne, Jasper, Newark, N. .1. Pha. 565 Usui,, us. u,,\. Jonathan, Eckley, I'n... Plm. s;i Owens, Rev. Griffith, Baltimore Bal. 1541 Owens, S. G., Xenia, Olii Cin. 1133 Pal r(2),Rev.A.M.,Phillipsbure N..T.. Pha. 826 Palmer, Rev. .1. M., Rochester, N. II.. Bos. 1039 Pape, Edward Gbg. 1548 Park, Jus. Ii., Philadelphia rim. 1153 Parke, W. J., Western Tl I.Som.,Pa. Pbg. 494 Parker, Rev. .Ins., B. Smithfield, I'n... Pha. 1004 Parker, Jos., Beverly, N.J rim. 1040 Parker, Rev! W.W., Cambridge, Moss, Bos. 002 Parknian, Rev. rims. M,, Ellicott's Mills, M.I Ilnl. 1,12 Parks, Jos., Germautown, I'n Pha. 1550 Parsons, Rev. Benj., WindBor, Cl Plm. 741 Parvin, Rev.R-7., SI makertown, I'n. Pha. 1122 Pascal, C. I., Philadelphia rim. S00 Patterson, Rev. Ii. I... Philadelphia.... rim. 882 Patterson (6), Jno., Philadelphia Pha. 747 l'.illri.,,N,.I.T..Wesl,,riiTI IS in I'.,, Pbg. 450 Patterson, Rev. Robert. D.D.. Chicago. Pha. 373 Patterson, Rev. II. w.. d.d., Chicago.. Chi. 022 Pattison, Rev. Robert H., Philad'a Pha. 704 Poxson, Howard Bal. 1360 Peabody, Rev. A. B., East Long- meadow, Mnss Bos. 076 I' son, Alex., Watervillo, Me Bos. 071 Peltz, Rev. \. <; , n,„ York X. Y. 840 Pepper.Rev. G. 1'. B, Watorvillo, M, Bos. 127s Perkins, Rev. r. 11.. Montague, Mass.. Bos. 548 Perrine, Thos. C, Philadelphia Pha. 836 Perry, D.B.,Prlncetou Thool.Som.,N .1 Pha. 1549 I'iwj, II, \ ..I. M.,Conshohoi :ki ,i Pa.. Ilnl. 1546 Philips, .1. W.. Brower, Me Bos. 1066 Pickering, Chas. w.. Philadelphia Pha. 241 l'i, I., ni. Rev. Cyrus, Nov, II,,,, ,,, i i ii,.,. 414 Pierce, W. K., Franklin, Me Bos. 1107 Pillingsby, Rov. — Ilnl. 1228 Piper, J., M. i. Ilnl. 1545 Pitcher.Rov. E. II.. Ann Arbor. Mich. Det. 1217 Pitcher(2), Rev. 0. I'.. Oneida, X. Y... Plm. 366 Poerner, Rev, .1. It.. Lebanon, I'n Bal. 1544 Poler, Jno. S., Washington Wn. 988 Pond, Theo. S., AndoverTl I.Scm.. It. .s. 307 Pope, i'. II.. Bangor Tl I. Sem , Me. lios. 509 LIST OF DELEG LTES. — 1863. Oil Porter, It. K., Pittsburg Pbg. 1202 Power,* Rov. P. II., Elizabeth, Pa Pbj 160 Powers, Rev, n H Spi in H< Id, Mass. Bos. 478 Price, Rot. S \v ,~l. v It;. I 1543 P Thos. w .. Philadelphia Pho. 790 I'im.Iv, It.v. .1. L., Pitteburg Pbg. n^7 Putnam, <:. I... Lowell, Muse Bob, 1150 Qui in(2), Geo., Philadelphia Pho Quiraby, Prof. B. T.. Dartmouth Col- l e,N. II 1!.|^. 618 Qulmby, I-.i.n Iliil. Raby, Rov. R. W Gbg. 1668 I: ...I. lilt-. Wallace Pb Ramsey, Walt, r, Philadi Iphin .. . Pha. 227 l;. in. I Rev. i: \ PorU ulh, V 11.. Bon 1021 Rankin, Rov. E E., D.n., Newark, N. J. Pho. 1154 Eankin.Rev.S G.Y ,W" i hi t. r.Ct. Pha. 1139 Ravi I. -. E. B.,Camp Chaso, Olil din. 660 Raj I.. I. Rei G I,, Chicag Chi. 1256 Redner, Ch i it. Philadelphia Pha. 934 Reed(2), Rev. Alex., Parkeeburg, Pa. Pha. 382 Reed, it. it . m.i... Washington, Pa... Pha. 271 it i I, it i Si Hi I' in. it Dot. 712 It I. Wm. \ . m i... Philadelphia^ Plia. 886 i; 1. W. i'.. Princeton Tin-.. I. Sun.... Pha. 1377 RoutorB, ih..-.. Baltimore Dal. 1661 Reynolds, A. J. Cumminsville, .,Gormantown. Pha. 817 Schen, k, Rev. \v. E., n. i,„ Philtid'a... Pha. 606 Si henck, B. P., w. d Gbg. 1698 Scoflelil, Pred'k, Philadelphia Pha. 762 s Rev. Alex., Philadelphia Pha 238 Scott, Rev. .1. ii. C ;o St. I.. 1261 Scott, Ji Bnltl re Bal. 1586 Scott, Jno., Philadelphia Pha. 1104 Scott, It. \ H M ,Con hohoi ki ... Pa . Pha; I": 1 - Scudder, — . m. d Gbg 1566 Secor, W. W., Baltimore Bal. I ,76 Si i i II Rid cway, Cin 1061 Seldonrldge, Geo., Philadelphia Gbg. LS70 Seldonridgc, J. P., Philadelphia Pha. 764 Sentor, Rev. O. S., Berlin, 1 1 It"-. Severance, Rov. .1. v.. franklin, N. Y. N. V. 426 Sexton, Jno Clli. 625 Seyi r. Jno. I'. I tica, N. ^ Pha. 863 Sharpless, J. T., K.D., Philadelphia.... Bal. 1670 Shaw, E. S., Washington Wn. 873 Sh ... Edwin, s.. Portland, Me Pha. 1842 Shaw, Rev. W. II.. Buflal Buf. .".'.I Shawn, s, S., Nev, orstown, Cin. 1130 Sh, iiu. F. i:.. I'ii, ton Tli. ..I Sam Pha. 1031 Shearer, Niles II.. Acodemia, Pa Gbg. 1552 Sherman, J.P., Poltsvllle, Po Pha. 842 Shick, .1. L., Gettysburg, Pa Gb| 1554 Shi. -his. Rov. Ii St. I.. 1268 S it. v. Geo W. P lelphia Pha: 936 Shipley, R. II., Baltimore Bal. I i89 Shove, Rev. BenJ., Dryden, N. v II,.,. 1430 siniiii ik. . Prof. .1 II li ...I Pa. in.;. 1692 Shumway,Rev.G B M., Newark, N.Y. NY. 1008 Siegfried, Rev s , Adamsvill, o Pbg. "17 Si, ■in. d(2), Rev. W. n., Philad'o Pha. 867 Silvers, Israel P., Pennington, N.J... Pha. 967 Silvers, Wilbm I' , Lambertville N.J. Pho. 1044 - S. It.. Philadelphia Bal. 1669 Simpson, Geo. W., Morning Sun O..... Cin. (00 Singleton,—, Baltimore Bal. 1688 -I...,.,. . it. ... n. Btapleton, N. V N. Y I 16 Slater, Rev. 1... Detroit Det. 71" Sloan 3 Ri ■■ I. O., Philadelphia Pha. 613 Small, Rev. A. K. P., Bangor, Me ... Bos. H ■ Smaltz, Jus Ql>s 1594 ,-in .,li. Jos. I'.. Philadelphia Pha. 850 s alii . Rev. 3 M Davi , rt.N.Y., Pha. 1 185 Sinil. j it. , Geo. « . ii. i... Philad'a... Pha. 1123 .Smiloy, Jas. II . I>i\\. I.n. N. Y Pha. 1282 Si ! Ri > r P Pi ppen II Ma ■ . Bo Smith. Ri 1 11 - \ lii.i., N. V. .. Pha 612 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Smith, Isaac, Baltimore Bal. 1578 Smith, Rev. J. jB., Jersey City, N. J... Pha. 872 Smith. Rev. J. Hyatt. Philadelphia... Pha. 780 Smith, J. J., M.D., Baltimore Bal. 1575 Smith. J. V. 0, M. D., K. Orleans, La... N. Y. 999 Smith. Rev. .las. M., Industry, Pa Phg. 1093 Smith, Jno. C, Newark, N. J Pha. 567 Smith, Rev. Jos., Lovell, Me Bos. 604 Smith, Koht. Pearsall, Philadelphia... Pha. 787 Smith. S. II.. Red Wing, Minn Pha. 450 Smith(2), Wm., Newark, N.J Pha. 900 Smoot, Albert, Baltimore Bal. 1583 Soule, A. G . H l> Bal. 1570 Southworth, Rev. A., South Paris, Me. Bos. 1147 Sovereign, Rev. II. Stropg, Rei Juo. M.,Clarkston, Mich. Bet. 1219 Strong, W. C. Brighton, Mass Bos. 1107 Strowbridgo,Rev.G. E., Evanston, 111. Chi. 620 Stnart,Geo. Hay, Philadelphia Pha. 589 Sullivan, Edwin R., Delaware, Ohio... Cin. 557 Sullivan. .In... C. Philadelphia Pha. 220 Supplee, Win. Henry. Philadelphia... Pha. 245 Sntphen. Rev. M. C. Philadelphia Pha. S01 Swindell, Jas. E Bal. 1572 Taggart, Alex.. Coatesville, Pa Pha. 838 Tarr.Geo. W, Philadelphia Pha. 236 Taylor, Rev. B. F., Brooklyn N. Y. 1070 Taylor H., Philadelphia Bal. 1611 Taylor, J. S, S. Yonkers, N. Y N. Y. 90s Taylor, Jim., Baltimore Bal. 1616 Taylor, Rev. Jim. 0, Sweden, N. ¥.... N. Y. 1068 Taylor, Rev. Jno. E. : Andes, N. Y Pha. 604 Taylor, S. II., Baltimore Bal. 1607 Taylor, w. C, German town, Pliilad'a. Pha. 890 Taylor, Rev. W. II.. Clifton. N. Y N. Y. 1072 Teitsworth, Rev.W. P.. Arkport,N.Y. Pha. 1172 Tenney, Ilev. E. P., Manchester, Mass. Bos. 568 Tenney,* Rev.S.W.,Norridgewock,Mo. Bos. 1386 Thacker, T., M. D., Goshen. O Cin. 1052 Thayei (2i, C.C., Chi.Cong.Theol;Sem. Chi. 617 Thayer. Rev. L. R., Cambridge, Mass. Bos. 655 Thissell. H. N., Philadelphia Pha. 257 Thomas, Rev. C. F Bal. 1600 Thomas, Jr., D. E.. Baltimore Bal. 101S Thomas i J i. Rev. D. R., Philadelphia.. Pha. 223 Thomas, II- G., CoatoWille, Pa Pha. s:;7 Thomas, .Ins.. Baltimore Bal. 1012 ThomaSj Rev. S. W., Philadelphia Pha. 546 Thompson. Abel Gbg. 1675 Thompson, Rev. Geo. w., d.d., Tusca- rora, Pa Pha, 591 Tl pson.Rev. H.H.,Coohranton,Pa. Pbg. 1195 Thompson, Jno. F., Delaware, Ohio.... Cin. 556 Thompson, Rev. M. L. 11. P.,D.n.,Cin. Pha. 1179 Thurston. Rev.. I. R .Newl. in >|.,.,t. Ms. Bos. 948 Tiffany, Rev. Chas. C, New Haven, ct. N. Y. 044 Tniiey. Rev. A.. Durham, N. II.. Bos. 1035 Todd, J. R., Newark, N. J Pha. 576 Tompkins, A. P., Philadelphia Pha. 219 Toothaker. Rev. II., N.llootliliay, Me. Bos. 941 Torrence, Rev. Iivin II.. Philad'a Pha. 812 Torrey, Rev. Chas. W„ Madison. II Pha. 1045 Towle, J. A., Newton Centre, Ms Bos. 658 Town, 11 Gbg. 1619 Tracy, M. M.. Bangor Theo], Sem., Me. Bos. 615 Trego.—. Baltimore Bal. 1617 Tricket, Rev. Jas., Westchester, Pa Pha. S10 Trinkle(2), 9a I. Philadelphia Pha. 240 Truckeiiinnlh r. Rev. D. S Gbg. 1076 Tucker,* Rev. .1. .1.. S. Pedham, Mass. Bos. 4119 Turbitt, Rev. Jno., Crown Point, N.Y. Pha. 1210 Tuinclill. .l..s. M.n Bal. 1599 Turner, Curtis, P., Westchester, Pa.... Pha. 811 Tiixhiiry.liev. Franklin, Exeter, N. II. Bos. 405 Twombly, Rev. A. 8., Albany, N. Y.... Bos. 1114 Tyng, Alex. C... Peoria, 111 Pha. 714 Tyng, Jr.. Rev. S. II., New York Pha. 875 Underwood,?. I... Chicago Chi. 423 dstick, W. A.. Washington, Ohio Pha. 258 VanAntweip.Rev.il. !>.. l'.eanfort.N.C. N. Y. 997 Vance, D C, Urbanna, Ohio Cin. 602 YanMetei. Rev. W. ('.. New York Chi. 01S VanSantvoonl.Rev.C.Saiigerties.N.Y. Pha. 1408 Varnum. A. C, Lowell, Mass Bos. .'44 Virgin, Rev. E. \V„ Natick. Mass Bos. lo:;2 Volit. G. S., M.D., Baltimore Bal. 1597 Votey, Rev. C. A.. Phelps. N. Y Gbg. 1598 Waddle, .1. B., Wheeling, w. Ya Phg. 396 LIST OF DELEGATES. 1864. 613 Wald, Rot. Paul. Allontown, Fa Pha. 1284 Waldr Ira, Waterville, Me Bos. 978 Walker, Rev. II I).. Abington, Mass.. Bos. 608 Walker, Rev, Jaa., Detroit Det. 709 Wallace, ('. W., Coehooton, Ohio Cin. 1063 Wallace, Rev. II N. Y. 649 Wallace, Rev. Jas. K St. L. 1269 Walter It. .1 Bal. 1822 Wanderley, Qi Bal. 1828 Ward, Jr., J.Wils Lakevlllc, Mass, H..s. 1013 Ward, Jos., Pawtucket, R. I It..-. 896 Warren, Rev. II. V., Georgetown, 0... Oin. 715 Warren, .las. T., Philadelphia Pha. 808 Washburn, Rev A. C, Berlin, CI Pha. 650 Wastell, Rev. Wm. P., Holly, Mich... Det. 1223 Waterhonse, Rev. I. P., Portsmouthj X. II Bos. 454 \\ntkiii=.. W. P., Maniaroneck, N. Y.. Bal. has Watson, W. II Gbg. 1898 Watts, .his., Philadelphia Pha, 7'.i>; Webb, Rev. E. it., d. i... Boston Bos. 476 Webster, Robert Bal. 1824 Webster, M ale t M, Philadelphia Pha, 229 Weeks, Rev. Jos. D^Claroraont.N. U. li.is. 510 Weidman,Kev Jacob, Lebanon, Pa... Gbg. 1894 Wells, Rev. K.P N. Y. 695 West, Geo P., Baltimore Hal. 1759 Westwood, Rev. HenryC, Baltimore. Bal. 1229 Wey ii. Min. i'„ Pittshuij; l'l.L'. 'iii:' Whaland, Robert W Gbg. 1895 Whaley, S tel Gbg. 1825 Whipple, Rev. \. B., Lansingbnrg, N.Y Pha. 1171 White(2)i II II PrincetonTl l.Sem Pha. 272 White, Rev. .In..., N. \Y Istock, ft... Bos. 1158 White, It. W Hal. 1724 Whitehill, Jos . St. Clair, Ohio Pbg. 1205 Whitoly, Jno. M .. Baltimore....? Bal. 1820 Whitney; Rev. Kelson, Sebec, Ma Bos. 1279 Wiest, J Philadelphia Pha. 828 Wilcox, O. W., Springfield, Mass Pha. 383 Wilder, Rev. M m., I IheBtcr, Po Pha. 772 » ile : Ri i B 1 Pleasant Valley, New York N.Y. 532 Williams, Rov. !■:. K.. Oxbridge, Mas.. Bos. 466 Williams, J. J., Baltimore Bal. 1734 Williams, Rev. R. G., Richvlew, III .... N. Y Williams, Rev. II H., Frederick, Md. Hah 1227 Williams, Rev. T. .1 . Pbilade ia.... Pha. 823 Willing(3), Rev. M. E., New York N. Y. 971 Wilson, P., Avondale, O fin. 1057 Wilson, ll.ni v. Baltimore Bal. 1783 Wilson, Rev.II. R.,d.d., Springfield, O. Pha. I"".". Wll , J, Newark, N.J Pha. MS Wil (2), •'• B.,New Centrevllle, Pa. Pha. 987 Wilson, Nnth., Orono, Me Bos. 1159 Winslow, Rev. E.D., Ware, Mass Bos. 378 Winterbottom, Wnri, Philadelphia.... Pha. 1173 Wishart, (apt. A., Washington, Pa.... Pha. 570 Wolfe, Rev. F. It.. Penna N. Y. 1071 \V lend, Rev. W. W., SaKsburg, Pa.. Pbg. 684 W Is. Rev. It. v.. Wbiteland, Ind.... Cin. 1142 \Y Is. Rev. P., M..HS..II, Ma-s Pha. 1393 Woodward, E. A.. Baltimore Hal. ir.s7 Woolston, Rev. It P., Cranberry, N. J. Pha. 855 Worth, S. B., Coatesvlllo, Pa Pha. 9 3 Motrin-, It. v. K. A., Portage City, Wis. Pbg. 413 Wright, Martin V., Frankfort, Pha. 1177 Wright,Rev W. J., Springfield, Mass. N. Y. 647 Wright, Rev. Wm., Mini rsville, Pa... Pha. 1011 Wyman, Phillips, J., Baltimore Hal. 1800 V... iinii3i. Th..-.S, Philadelphia Pha. 962 Young, Rev. II. II Cincinnati Cin. 1141 Young, Jno. B., Baltimore Bal. 16S4 Young(2), Rev. J. Henry, Phihjd'a.... Pha. 748 Young, Robt, A, Coatesville, Pa Pha. 839 Young, R.G Ghg. 1688 Young, It. M Gbg 1683 Young, T Hal. 1683 Zimmerman(2),Rev.J_Frankfort,NrY. Pha. 1286 COMMISSIONED IN 1864. Ai.i...it, Rev. A. n.. Reading, Mich.... Pha. 2431 Abbott(2),Rev.J.J.,Whitinsville,Ms. Bos. 2040 ,M.i...t, (2), Rev.J.S '' . Nev Haven... Pha. 3205 Acker n, E.G,Spring Yall.-y.N. Y. Pha, 277o Adair, Rev. A., Mongaup Valley, N.Y. Pha. 1726 Adams, Rev. A. <'.. Auburn, Me Bos. 14.".7 Adams, It. K.. Akron.N.Y Buf. '-!7sr, Adams, C. K . Inn Irbor, Mich I'. I 8 A.lain-, Rev. E. E.. Ii. I... l'liilii.l'n I'll . 1663 Adam-. J.. Ret -I I'. . I'll l-l. a.. I'a ... Pha. 1436 Adams, J. B.W., Lafayette College, Pa. Pha 19 A.lan.s, 1!..,. Win.. I. i, \.„ Fort v \ 3299 A.i-ii Rev. Samuel, Palmyra, N. Y.... Pha. 8032 Aikinan. Rev. W., Wilmington, Del... Pha. 2251 Ainsworth, G. A., Williamstown, Tt. It..- 1388 Albee, Henry L., Boston Bos. 8652 Al.lav. Rev. J. II., n. p.. Philadelphia.. Pha. 2199 Ald.-n, Rev. .1. P., Camden, N. Y Pha. 292] Alexander, Rev. W. J., Dallas, W. Va. Pbg. -'171 Algi r(2), .1. C, McGrawvillc, N Y Pha, 3222 Allaire '_' Samuel T., Brooklyn Bkn. 3461 Allan, A., Andover T! I. Si m .. Ms... Boft 1790 Allen, Inthony, Bloomingburg Pha, 2530 Ml. i, Ri v. \. It Ldrian, Mi. b Chi. 2618 Allen, K. v.. Troy, N. Y Pha. ::.i"l Ml. a. Galen, Milford, Mass Bo« 1019 Allen, Rev. Jno., Farmington, M. . Bos. 1487 Allan. It. a .1 R Evanston, III Chi. 2089 Allen, Rev. J. W., Tecnmseh, Mich.... Del 111 ., Ri .. 8. T. lurora, Ill Chi. 2104 Mi. i, t. . Tho( . Indover Tl l.Sem. la-. 1793 \v ... - i; » In i . n v Pha, 2320 (514 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Ames, I,. J., h.d., Mt. Morris, N. v... Buf. :'.,">".4 Anderson, I). v., m. i... Schuylkill, Pa.. Pha. 2247 Anderson, Rev. M. I... Mlllersburg. 0... Cin. 8391 Anderson, Rev. T.D,n.i>., New York. N. V. 3297 Anders Wm.. Brooklyn Bkn. 2020 Anderson, Rev. W.W , Chosterville, 0. Cin. 8670 Andrews, Rov. F. G . Keener Settle- ment, N. V Pha. 8281 Andrews, Goo., Detroit Dot. 8418 Andrews, M, Cllutou, Pa Pbg. 1810 Andrews, fl . W, Cleveland Cle. 2607 Angell, Henry II.. New York N. V 3296 Anst Henry, Divinity Schoo^W. riLila.lrii.inii Pha. 2822 Anil y, Rov.G. N, Marlboro', Ma... Bos. 2661 Apesby, Rev. W. S., — . Vermont Wn. 1894 Apploford, Rev. D., Evanston, III Chi. 209] Armfiold, W.W.. Williamsburg, N. Y. Bkn. 2278 Arms, Chas. C, Hanover, N. H Bos. 2971 Armstrong, Rev. R., Harrisville. Pbg. 2679 Ashley, Rev. B. !•'., Iowa City, Iowa... St. L. 8750 Ashlej i-'. Rev. S. S., Northboro', M».. Bos. 1889 Ashmead, Dufflold, Philadelphia Pha. 2224 Asuton(2), t'redk., Brooklyn Bkn. 2899 Ashwoi Mi. lti v.. I ., Tow ns. ■ii.h'.'. X.Y. Pha. 8861 Ashworth, Juo. P., Clappville, Mass, Bos. 31715 Aston, K.'\. II., Huntingdon, N. V Bkn. 8459 Atkinson, Rev. Thos., Chicago Pha. 1472 Attwood, A. V7, Philadelphia Pha. 2525 Atwater, Rov. II. C, Mi xandria, O.... Cin. 8051 Aughey, Rev. J. H,Yon Amsterdam, 0. v'in. 3408 '..inn, Rov. Chas. II.. Albion, N. Y... Pha. L58] Austin, Eov. R. H., Pottsville, Pa Pha. 2231 Aycrigg.Col. Benj., Paterson, N..I N. Y. 3298 Ayi is, ■, M. »., Fort "Wayne, Iud Pha. 3797 Babcock(2), Orrin' i:.i. ... N. Y Buf. 8128 Bin holder, Rev. J. M llbla, town ... St. L, 3752 l:a. kus, Rev. A. I... Carlton, N. Y Buf. 8122 Bacon, A. C, Cleveland Cle. 2827 Bacon(2), Rev. Geo. B., Orange, N.J, Pha. 2056 li.i^-lis, Rov. J. II.. Warsaw. N. Y Phil. 2737 Bailey, A. S., Ctica, N. Y Phil. 8021 Bailey, J. G, Hyde Park, Vt Boe. B49J Bailey, Rov. N. M., II iker, N. II... Bos 3661 l; .il.i u in . K D., Mi.au Pha. 272."' Bain, Rei ■ ' VI . Canonsburg, P» Pbg, 1882 Bainbridge(2), Rei " . B 1 ., Rochester, X. V Pha. 2352 liair.l. Rev. J. T., Cincinnati Cin. 1749 Baird, Rov. W. F.. Burlington, 1"".. Pha. 8815 Baker, Rev. Azor, Dennysville, Me.... Bos. ".ss7 Bakor, Rov. A.S.. s. Palls, V Y. Buf. 3558 Baker, Geo. W., Williamsburg, N. 1 Bkn. 2267 Baker, Isaac, Philadelphia Pha. 2278 Baker (2), J. W. II., Bang.Tl l.Sem. Bos. 1446 Baki i Prof, I. IV. Fairfield, N. Y Pha, 8088 Baker, Rov. Smith, Teazle, Me Bos. 1878 paldwin, Chas., Baltimore Hal. 2809 Baldwin, Goo. !>., Boston... Pha. 2355 Baldwin, Rov. X. B., d.d, Phllad'a Pha. isoo Hall. ai, E, Camp Chase, Ohl Cin. 3034 Hall, .u; Rev. Hi... W, Naples, Me Bos. 3537 Han. roll. C. F. 1'.. .Ml. Win..... \. II.. Bos. 8100 Baningor.Riiv. 11 . Poughkeepsie, N. Y. N. Y. 3204 Hani/. Gideon, Fr.'.L'ii.'U. Md Hal. :;'.il.'. Barber, A. C, Lambertville, N. J Pha, '2426 Barbor, Rev. D. M, Mifflinsburg, Pa.. Pha. ••; , .i. r >7 Bi , G W.,Orange, Mass U..». 8098 Barber, II M. D., Washington Wn. 2152 Barber,Rev.R.N,W.Martinsburg,N.Y. Pha. 8868 Barker, Rev. 11. 1; . Mercer, Pa Pbg. t680 Barker, Rov, M„ Pittsfbrd, N. Y Pha, 8026 Barker, Thos, Albany! X. Y All.. 3385 Barnard, Rev. P. F, Willlamstown, \ 1. Bos. 1722 Barnes, Rev. A. !■'.. Mi. Carroll, 111... Chi. 141s Barnes, Rov. G. S , Greenland, N. II... Bos. S197 Barnes, Rov. J. B, Ro , X. Y Pha. 147s Barns, Rev. R. M,Madlson, In, 1. ana.. I'm. 1748 Barrett Rev. Jno, Groonfleld, Ohio... Cin. l"-':; Barrett, Soloi U.S., Le Roy, X. 1 . Pha. 2409 Han, ,it. Wra,Gi sville, N. Y Buf. 1851 Barrows, Rev. Prof. E. I'., 1.. i... Ando- verTheol. Son), Mass Boa, 1784 Barrows, Lucius, Philadelphia Pha. 2526 Bartlett, Rev, Ilex, Conneaut, Ohio. Cle. 2884 Bartlott, Rov. L, Coventry, VI Bos. 8256 Bates, W. II. Hi ton College, V Y. Pha. 2798 Bayle, Rev. .1. F, Niles, Ohio Cle. ,'>27. r i Beach, Lewis, Brooklyn Bkn. 2186 Beac Rov. J.J, Findloyville, Pa... Pbg. 8789 Bealo, C. I... lugusta, M Bos. 2666 Beale, Rev. S. H, Buoksport, Me Bos. 3395 Seaman, Rev. G. C, Croton, [own St. I.. ".7,'i4 Beaman, Roi » H, V Hndley, Vln sa.lnisrlls BOS Beard, Rev. A. F„ Bath, Mo Bos. 2311 Board, Rev. Geo. 1*., Northfleld, Vt.... Bos. 2315 Beardslo} , Honry, Poorin Poo I Beardsley, .1 II., Bakersvillo, Ohl Cin- 19 10 U.-..1 1 1. . 1; v C,Salisburj Mill N \ Pho - I Beattie, Claudius, Brooklyn Bkn 3468 Beaumont,.! G, Foribanlt, Minn St. P 2186 Becker, Chas. E, Bennetts g,N. IT. Pha. 3273 Be - 1,'. 1 Joa . Lei erlngton, \'^ Pha. 1 185 Beggs. Rov. S. K. Plainfleld, III Chi Boll, Rev. .1. E, Wickford, R. I Bos. 2664 Bell, Ri v. ,F R, Elizabeth, Indiana... In.i. 1349 Bell, Rov. P. I!., Torentum, Pa Pbg. 1876 Bell, Rev. s. Watervillo, Me Bos. 2316 Boll, Samuel, Philadelphia Pha. 3162 Bellvlllo, Rev.Jacob, Holmesburg, Pa. Pha. 2894 Beman, Rev. I. I,.. Cortland, V \ .... Pha. 2a'.i4 Benedict, Rov, I \ , Norwich.N.T. Pha. 8261 Benedict, Lyman 1: , Brooklyn Bkn 2909 Bennett, Rov. Chas. 11.. New STork ... N 1 . 3699 Bonuott. I), P, Loban Ohio Cin 3406 B01 tt, Rov. Henry W, Adams V \. Pha. 8017 Bennett, Rev. P. s„ Appleton, \\ is ... ('In. 2094 LIST OF DELEOATKS. 1864. 615 Bent(2), Rov. Gljborl II.. Enfleld,Ms. Phn. 178? Beutloy, Rov B. D., vv no !,CI Har. 8619 Benzingi r,J.C ,m.d ,Towsontown,Md. Bal. — * >7 '.* Berry, A. 8., Adrian, Slichignn... Dot. 277:! Best, Rov. .1 b, Stuyvosant, N. v.... N V. 3137 Best, W. D., Froeport, III Chi. 2652 Bevoridge, Rei 1 M.,Troy, N. V ... Ph«. 2868 Bickordike, Mrs. M. A., Chicag Chi Blorbower(2 , A., Carlisle, Pa Pha. 2539 Bierbower, V., Carlisle, Po I'liu. 3166 Bigelow, A. 'I'.. u.D., Worcester, N. V. All.. 3392 Bigelow, Jno. B., Washington Wn. 2150 Bingham, Rev, I S., Conquest, N. V ... Pha. 3427 Binkley, Rev. Q. II.. Springfield, 0.... Cln. 8047 Bishop, Rev. II . Baltl o Bal. 8449 Bissell, Rev. C. II.. Pequonuock, Ct... Pha. 2189 Btosoll, I.. Parsons, Clinton, N. V Pha, 299J Bixby, Rev. « m . 81 atles, N. \ ... Pha. 8395 Blacks ■, Wn. i: Idams, X. V Pha. 8626 Blackwood, Rov. VI n... n.t... Philad'a.. Pha. 2449 Blair, Rev. R., P ivillc.Minn Chi, 1423 Blako, Rev. C. M . Philadelphia ('in. 8101 Blaki Rev. D, II.. Br tlyn Pha. 3516 Blake, Rev. II. B . Belchertown, Mass. Bos. 1728 Blake, J. W., Corinth, Me Bos. 3S0S Blakeslee, Rev. 'k n . Bing] Lton, N.Y Pha, 3502 Blakcsly.Rov.W.E., I rtville.N.J. Pha. 2697 Bliss(2), i harli B klyn Wn 21 H Bliss, 8 . Chicago Chi. 1426 HI I, J. B., Popporell, Mass Bos. 8828 Board o, 8 Middlebnry, \ I Bos. 1887 Boardman, Jr., Henry A.. Philad'a.... Pha. 2518 Bog inlii. .11. r.S.X M I'm. Itim N.Y. N. V. 3671 II,, ios. Rov. Harper, Hal p i Hue] I N.Y. Pha. ."4:1(1 Boies, (Mis, m, i. ., Cloveland Clo. 2505 It,. It. hi. c. B., Vmhet I M i Bo 811 6 Bom «i ii. I:. r. -i ". Beaver, Pa Pb Boole, Rev. fl n Hi « York H, V. 3138 B le, Wm. J., Princeton, N. J N. Y. 2932 BqOth, Rev. Jno. F , B klyn Bkn. 2746 Bootli 2 I; i R n . n ".. \. « v ork. Ph i. 1890 Booth, 8 I, Brooklyn Bkn. 2897 Booth » in C., I! klyn Bkn. 2127 B iley, Josliun, Baltimore Bal. 2060 Boswell I:. > « L,C ■ . I'. . . Phn. 2964 Botsford Chas. S., Brooklyn N. V 3839 Bondrye, Rev. L. N., How York Wn. 1084 Bon ;hton, Ri v. Pet r, Nou V orl N. V. 3666 Bowcn, Rev. C. M.. Redfleld, X. Y Pha. 2928 Bowi i Ri i E. D . Springfield, Ohio, Cin, 8682 Bowers, Chas. I., Clinl Mass Bos. 8171 Bowyel W l., Baltimoro Bal. 2082 Boyd Ri i .i i. I' (hb ly, M, Bos. 3380 Boyd, Rice, Pi nnsville, Pa Pbg, .:. u Boyd,—, II H, Y Pho. 1480 Boynton, I". II., Andover Theol.8i m Bos. 1763 Brace Rei .New York N.Y. 2931 Bracket! Ri i N W Lcwlslon, Mo... Bos. 3253 Bradford 2 . '«'., Albany Pha. 2848 Bridg n, J. C, Northampi Maes. Pha. 2168 Bridgman, S. E., Northampton, Mass. Bos. 1964 Brig \ i. . Gardiner, Me '. Bos. 2910 Brindle, i:.\ Jas. l.,Wili gton.Del. Pha, 2503 Bringhursl 1 1 . Rov. Geo., Philad'a Pirn. 2117 Brintnall, Rev. L.W., Mallei Creek.O. Cle. 3162 Brltton, Rev. J. I'., Chilicothe, Ohio... Cin 8048 Hr.i.ik-i'.',. K. v.C, Wardsboro', 1 1 Bi -. 1662 Brooks. Rev D., Monticello, Minn Cin. 1332 Brooks, Rev.J, H., Washington Wn. 2487 Brooks, Sidney, Harwich, Mass Bos 2967 Brook Rev. « . B., Bridgeport, Cl Pha. 2684 Brower, A. G., u. D . 1 tica . H. Y Pho. 2496 Brown, Rev, Addison, Lowell, Mass... N. V 2930 Brown, Rev. Azra, Chicago Chi. 1420 Brown, Rov, v. II .. Garrotsvillo, Pbg. 1679 Brown (2 . Rei D. I' . Flint, Mil b Det. 2774 Brown, Rev. V. P., Georgetown, D.C. Wn. 2140 Brown, 11. E., Andover Theol. Sem.. Bo 8201 Brown, Rov. n W . VI ml. N. Y Buf, 8857 Brown, Rev .1 V. Collamer, V v ... Plm 3426 Brown. Levi, 1 bcrtville, N. . I.. ...... Pha. 2722 Brown(2),M. A., Cleveland Cle. 3147 Brown, 0. v. Delaware, Cin 804 Brown, Ri < i: wego, III Chi. 2010 Brown, K.ii M., Allegheny, Pn Pbg. 1371 Brown, Rev. Selah, Savannah, N. Y... All, 8393 Brown, Rev. s. E., Herki r, N. Y... pha, 2415 Brown, Rev. vv m, p... Newark, N. J... Phn. 2382 Brown, Rei v\ i\ Oxford, Cin. 8900 Brownoll, T. v.. Hev Bedford, Muss... Bos. 3174 Browning, (1 8., Charleston, Cln. 8052 Brownlee Rev.J.T.,W Middlet'n, Pa. Pbg. 2854 Brush, Win. v.. Brooklyn I'.kn. 3337 Bryson, Rev J. C, Burns, Pa Pb Buck, Rev, J, II.. New Haven, N V Phn 29 'A Bui k ! Re\ W. D., Lockport, N. V. link 1855 I'm. hint. hi Ro> vi I , D. ii B klyn. Pha. 1! Buel, Rev. II. P., o. D . Hamilton, N V . Phn Hull. Rev. .1 vi „ \ i, tor, V v Buf. S6S i Billiard, Rov C H . Hartford, CI Pha. 2733 Bunki i l: \ vv f . Holmesbui . Pa, Ph i. 2305 Burcl I, .iii. Boston I'll t Bnrdlck, Rev. C. II.. Corfu, N. V Pha. 2051 liiinii, k. Ro\ II. in, I'.. Norfolk \:i N v 3940 Burdii I, .1. P., \. (V York N. V ' | I -.i: i .i .i Calais, Mo Bos. 349] i !, N P. Portland Bo n nghani, Rev. A. 11.. ».»., \ Y... \ V 2928 Burui'll, K V , Milwaukee Pha. 3616 Burnt tt, It r. D, 8., Balti e Bal GIG ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Burnett, E. S., Philadelphia Pha. 2218 Burnham, S., Pittsburg Pbg. 3352 Burns, Goo., Clinton, Pa Pbg 1364 Burr, H. A.. Williamsburg, N. Y likn. 2271 Burr, Walter II.. Washington Wn. 24S2 Burr, Rev. W. X.. W. Winfleld, N. Y.. Pha. 3425 Kurt. Jno. F.. Milford Centre, Cin. 1319 Burt. Rev. Sylvester, Beaver, Pa Pbg. 2170 Burton, Rev. X. S., Akron, Pha. 2557 Bush,' Rev. E. G., .Tamesville, N. T Pha. 3324 Bushnell, Rev. II., Enterprise, Iowa... Cin. 1956 Butler, Jno. M., Albany Pha. 2325 Buttee, R. R., Baltimore Bal. 1233 Buzzclle.i;. B., Bangui The,,. Scni., Mi'. Hus. :'.Ci54 Caldwell, II. . I., Wan-en, O Cle. 3149 Caldwell, Rev. J. P., Florence, Po Pbg. 1636 Caldwell, Rev. L. IS., Myrtle, N. Y Pha. 1640 Caldwell, P. T, Canonsburg, Pa Pbg. 1806 Caldwell, Sam. B, Brooklyn Pha. 1872 Calhoun, Rev A , Temperanceville, Pa. Pbg. 1862 Calhoun, Johnston, Hookstown, Pa... Pbg. 1381 Callahan, Rev. P.. Lynchburg, Ind. 1303 Campbell, A. P., N. Brunswick, X. J.. Pha. 3097 Campbell, Alvin II., Brooklyn Iikn. 2988 Cani| 11. Rev. .In..., Taberg, X. Y Pha. 2845 Campbell, John P., Johnstown, N. Y.. Pha, 3963 Campbell, S.K., New York Mills,N.Y. I S160 Carnahan, Rev. J. Gordon, Troy, Pa... Pha. 3312 Carpenter, Rev. C. C, Worcester, Ms. Bus. 3S92 Carpenter, Geo. W., Albany Pha. 2323 Carpenter, Jno. II.. Hortcon, Wis Chi. 3070 Cut. Rev. Geo. W., Bow, X. II Bos. 1803 Carr, Rev.JlM., St. Clairsville, Pbg. 1367 Carrier, Mi*. O. M., Olivet College, Mich Chi. 2546 Carrier, Rev. Prof. O. M., Olivet Col- lege, Mich Chi. 2.'.47 Carson, Rev. D. W, McCleary, Pe Pbg. 1814 C.irsui,, Rev. .1. G., Clayeville, Pa Pbg. 1878 Carson, Thos. A,. Gi neva, X. Y Pha. 1417 Carter, Rev. J. P., Baltimore Hal. 2812 Cut. i J., Walter S . Milwaukee Chi. 3063 Caruthers, Rev. .1. E., Lynchburg, Vn. Pbg. 1614 i ■, D. B., Oswego., Ill Chi, 2011 Case, II. (1., Haverhill, Mass Bos. 3546 Case, Rev. Rufus, Derry, N. II Bus, 144-2 Coskey, G. II.. Waukegan, III Chi. 1416 Castle, Rev. J. II., W. Philad'a Pha, -"-11 I'll. .. I. J„ Nurllnvui.il, X. II Bos. 8546 Catlin, Rev. 11. R.. Meriden, ,x. II Hus. 3662 Cato'n, M.J Wn. 2492 Caulk. .las. T., Baltimore Bal. 2061 CI, alt mi. Rev. G. W\. Martinsville, O.. Pbg. 2851 CI) heilain, A. E., Cine] ti Cin. 3904 Chamberlain. C Sackett's Harbor, X. Y Pha. 8309 Chamberlain, Rev. J. M., Dee Moiues, I.iwa Bus. 3199 Chambers, Wm. L., Carthage, X. Y... Pha. 2114 Chapin, J. S.. Janesvillc, Wis Chi. 3068 Chapman, C. W., New Bedford., Mass,. Pha. -'423 Chapman, G., M. n., Brownhelm, Cle. 3148 Chapman, Rev. G. K., Sew England Tillage, Mass Bos. 145S Charpiot, Rev. L. E.. Stratford, Ct X. Y. 3303 Chartres(2),Thos., Brooklyn Bkn. 3182 Chase, Rev.A.B., Reading Centre, K.Y. Buf. 3559 Chase, Rev. Edw., Portland Pha. 2739 Cbase(3), G. 8., Newton Theol. s.,,,.. Hus. '.",'14 Chase. Jim. D„ Brooklyn Bkn. -'749 Chase, I. E., M.n., Haverhill, Mass.... Bus. 3172 Chase, J. K„ Lowell, Mass Bos. 2704 Chase, Rev. L. N.. Can.lia. X. II Hus. 3321 Chase, Rev. .Muses, Haverhill, Mass... bus. 3534 Cheatham, Rev. Jos., Floris, Iowa Chi. 3067 Cheney, Loren., Janesville. Wis Old Cheney. Rev. X. C... Concord, X. II.... Bus. 2387 Chi ssh ire, Rev. Jno. E., Philad'a Pha. 2682 Child. Rev. Geo. II.. Westboro', Mass.. Hs. 3S16 Childs, C. C.St. .lulmsliiiiv, Yt Bus. 2238 Choate, Rufus, Washington Wn. 2479 Church. 1). V., Vermontville, Mich... Cle. 3471 ChSirch, E. F., Towsohtown, Md Hal. 2080 Church, J.B., Albany Pha. 3214 Clark, Rev. E. B., Chico] .Mass Bos. 27CU Clark. Henry B., tt.»,New Bedford.Ms. Pha. 2424 Clark. II. II Pha. 1903 Clark, Rev. J. I... Peril, Centre \ V. Pha. ::725 Clark. Rev. .Innas M., Ashl'iin,hai,,,Ms. Bos. 3498 Clark, Rev. L. F., Whilinsville. Mass. Hus. 1656 Clark, Rev. P. K„ S. Dee, lb '1,1. Mass.. Bus. SS79 Clarke, Rev. H.R.,i>.s., Kingston, Pa. Pha. 2286 Clarke, Rev. W. R., Springfield, Mass. Hus. 3101 Clayton,-.;,. Wm. v.. Il.„l,l"iifi,i,l.\..i. Pha. 2840 Clements..!,--, 11 . Brooklyn Bkn. 2895 Clendenning, Rev. T. C, Savannab.Ill Cin. 1735 Clifford, J. C, Salisbury, N. H Hus. iw: Clinker. Rev Henry J., Troy, N. Y Pha. 2501 Clizbe, .lay. Amsterdam, X. V Pha. 3970 Cluggctt, Rev. E. H..Lyn,lel„, r,,'. x. II. Bos. 3244 Closson, Rev. .1. T., Franklin. X. II.... Bus. 3821 Clough (2), Hannibal, Oxford, Cin. 1322 Clough, Mrs. II , College Corners, 0... Cin. 1910 Cubnrn, E, P., Harrisburg, Pa Hbg. 3506 Cochroft, S., Williamsburg, N. Y Hkn. 2274 Cue. W. II., Lima. X. Y Pet. 2777 Coffey, Rev. Geo. II.. Saugerlies, N. v. Pha. 2336 Coffin, lt,v. Daniel, Yellow Springs, O. Cin. 1308 Coffin, s, J., Easton, Pa Pha, 2687 Coggiu, Chns. II.. Nashua, X. II Bos. 2969 Cogging, Rev. Thos., Baltimore Bal. 1222 Coil .' . Win.. Brooklyn Wn. 2143 Cull, urn. Hubert. Albany lib. 3384 Colburn, Rev. Isaac, Baltimore Bal. 2063 Colburn, Rev. M.. Gray, Me Bos. 1660 Colburn, W.H., Hillsboro', Ohio Cin. 1925 Coleman, Rov. M., Ottawa, III Chi. 2606 Coleman, Rev. Wm, Pittsburg Pbg. 1363 list of i>i:u-.<;ati:s. — isivi. 617 Colgrove, Rev. C., Sardinia, N. Y Iinf. 2787 Collet, I' Xonla, Ohio Ind. I KJ Co s,*Rov. II. B., Franklin, Ind Ind 1888 CoHyor, Henry M . Brooklyn Bkn. 2717 Co n, Rev. w. w . i.,.|,„i Cln. 8683 Colton(2), Rot 1' . No'rthfleld, C( Pke 2460 Colton, Rev. Jos., Conneravlllo, Ind... Ind. 183? ('..II,. n, Rev. T, i;, Wonson, Mass M, n. 8620 Colver, \\ m . Gettysburg, Pn Bal. 3916 C i, hi. Rot G., Hawleyt N. v.... Phn. 2381 Coinfort, Jno. E., H.n., Albany Pha. 2324 Comstoi k, Rev. D. W., Full Wis... CM. 8071 (•..iii.ni. Rev. — , Knoxboro', N. V I'l.i. 8779 C li.i, « ., Morrlstown, N. J Phn. nun Condit, Rev. I. w . Salisbury, N. 11... Bos. 1883 c Iii. Frederick, Brooklyn Bkn. 2897 Condit, Rov, \\ .('., Montezuma, Iowa. Cin. 1740 Conklln, G W, it. d., Nassau, N.Y.... Alb. 2693 Conklln, Rev. Robert 11., Detroil Det 3409 ConooIly(2),Rev.'H.,Newburg,N.Y... N. 1 Converse, J. ('.. Boston Phn, l s 7" Conway.Ret II . \. m bui g, N. V N. Y. 2927 Cnoknian(2), Rev. Alf., Now York N. V 1 107 Cooper, Rev. I', Monroe, Ohio Cin. 1915 Cooper, Rot Jas., \v. Philadelphia.... Pha. 1648 Copeland, Rev. A.T.,McConn6llsville, NY Pha. 2925 Cordon, Ret 3 R., Oak Grove, Mi. 1. Det, 3408 Corey, Mrs D.,Yicksbnrg St. L. 1701 Corej (2), Rev. C. II.. Seabrook. N. II. \ V. 2655 Coroy, Rov. i>. G., d.d., Otica, N. Y... Uta. 2708 Cornish, Virgil, Now Britain, Ct Pha, 2346 Corn'wcll, Rev. J., Athens, Ohio Cin. 1929 Coon. . S, D . Frederickton, Ohio Tin. 8679 C v ,11. ('.. W., Bushmill, 111 Peo. 8869 Cowing, Jas. R., Brooklyn Bkn. 2130 Cowles, .1. A., m.i... Rome, N. Y Pha Cox, Sni 1, Brooklyn Bkn. 2745 Coyle, Rev. Jno . \\ ashlngton, V J... Phs 31 ■ Corner, J. M. Lebanon, Ind Ind. *2. r .7'> . . b D . Campbellsbnrg.Ind. Ind. 1946 Crni" James, Ctica, N. Y Pha. 8028 Cmlby, Jno. s . Bellair, Ohio Vbg. 2681 Cri ir, Ri i M. J., Cincinnati Cin. 1821 Crane, R, i i: V Norfolk, Va N. Y. 2654 Crawford, Rev. H. E., Norristown, Pa, Pha. 2277 Crawford, T. O., Middleport, Ohio Pha. 2719 Creasy, Geo. N Port Deposit, Md Bal. 2072 Crfssv/oll B J.. Calcutta, Ohio l>h K . 1603 CritchBold, II, i N. B, New Loxing- lori, Pa PI.-. 1879 Crockor, D. I' Cleveland Clo. 2374 Crosty .'in , P. ppcroll, Moss Bos. 201 1 Crosfleld, Rov. ..St. Ann's, C. W.. Buf. 1853 Crossman, Aaron T., Brooklyn Bkn. 2989 Crothers, Ret 8 I'. Greenfield, Cin. 8897 Crowell, D., Brooklyn Bkn. 2269 Cnller,H.L.,Penn'nCollego,Gettysb'g. Phs I8( ! Colli-. Rev. "... H.. Philadelphia I - 1 . i 3417 78 Cui gs, Rev. c . mi .i ... kson, Pa.. Pbg. 1861 C mlngs, Rev. II.. Newport. N. H... Bos. 3316 Ci Ins(2), I. .wis c. m.i... I'll i In Pha. 2266 Cummins, W. n..,De Kalb, o ., Cln. 3390 Cm gham.Ret J.,Gnlnesville,N V Buf. I860 Cunningl Rov. T. M.. Phllnd'n Phn, 2265 Cunnington, Wm, Philadelphia Phn. 2627 Curtis, E. II., Medford, Mass Bos, 8686 Curtis, Rov. E, 0., I Ilea, N. Y Pha. 2520 Curtis, Rev. Wm., McLean \ v Pha. 1471 r,, hlng, Rov. 0, » ., Troy, V \ Pha, 2282 dishing, II K., M. [>., Cleveland Ole. 2618 Cushing, Rov.S. A.,Wllbrnham t Mnss. Bos. 2458 Cuthberts. n R. i s .Cumberl i,0 Pbg. 8799 Cutler, Rev. Templo, Skowhegun Me Bos. 2243 Cutler, Rev.Chas.,Francestown, N.H. Bos. 8242 Cnylor, Rev. Tl I... D i> Brook!] u, Pha. l "7 1 Dadmun, Rev J. W., Roxbnry, Mass. Bos. 2389 Dana, Rov. M M G., Winsted, CI .... Pha. 2113 Dnnforth(2 li, v. I.H., Milesto'n.Pa. Pha. 1491 Danforth, Mrs. — , Chicago Chi. 2610 Daniells, Rev. W. II.. St. Johns, V B Bos. 17M Danikor, t> . Baltimore Bal. 1284 Dardis(3), Francis, Philadelphia .... Pha. 1882 Davenport, Jno. T., Brooklyn Bkn. 20.19 Davenport. Rov. tt ... Otisfleld, M, Bos, 8549 Davidson. Rev. Hugh, Elkhorn, Wis. Chi. 3061 Davidson, Rev. Jno. A\, Wiconisco,Pa. Pha. 8441 Davies, Jno.W., Baltimore Bal. 2078 Davis, Rev. Jus., Blairsvllle, Pn Pbg. 2186 Davls(2 , Rev. J. B., Brldesburg, Pa... Pha. 14«6 Davie, Paul A., Philadelphia Pha. 2208 Davis. Rev. Perlej It.. SI. i, Mass... Bos. 1468 Davis, s. S . Northfield.Ind Ind. 2 17 1 Davis, Rev. T. E.. Auburn, N, Y t\ n. 2489 Day, Rev. Geo. T . Providence Pha. 1720 Dayan, Rov. J. F., Carthage, N, v Pha. 2046 Dean, Imos II.. llbanj Pha. 2522 i.i r. I, Ri -.it Concord, N. II N. 1 » DeGolyor. Jos., Troy, N. Y Pha. 2284 Di II , is, Ri i. P. 3, Brooklyn Bkn 9 ' Demond(2), Chas., Boston Bos. 1864 I ton, Rot l.C Portl md CI .... N i 2652 Denman, II. IV, Dowagiac, Mich Det. "11". Dennis, Laban, Newark, N .1 Pha. 258] Dewey, Jns R . Chicago , Chi. 2554 n, «vin Ri - Thoe 9 Bl \ 1 \ \ I Dewltt, Rev. A., II,,,,-,, I, Falls, \ > Pha. 2410 Dexter, R.H., Pavilion, N.Y Wn. 2156 Dick, Rev, W. It.. Mi. Pleasant, Pa.... Pbg. 2180 Hi. kereon, Rov. II I. . Danville, Iowa, rhi. 1957 Dickerson.Rov.J S„Wilmlngton, Del. Wn. -Jl 14 Dickoy, J. M. 0, Oxford, Po Pha. 2847 Di, i on Rev. Wm., Calcutta, o Clii. 1918 Dlotrlck, I! It . M D, \t ashlngton. .. « n 2483 lull,-, w i.i. s . Philadelphia Pha. 2212 Dilloy(2), Rev. J., Oskal ,, Iowa., si I. 8766 Dlssett, Tkos. II.. Bolivar, (> Dix, Jno. F., Baltimore Uol. 2S20 618 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Dizer. J. F., E. Weymouth, Mass Bos. 2667 Dobbins, Rev. J. B., Philadelphia Pha. 2203 Dodd, Henry M., Cortland, N. V Pha. 2769 Donaldson, Rev. A., Eldersridge, Pa.. Pbg. 1602 Doolittle,E.D.,Wappiiigers Falls, N.Y. N. V. 2650 Doolittle, Rev. T. S., Flatlands, NY. Pha. 2639 Dooly, Rev. Alvan M., Lebanon, Tint. Ind. 2575 Dorr, Moses, Boston Pha. 2357 Dorr* P., Penn'a College, Gettysburg.. Pha. 1860 Doty, Chas. F., Geneseo, N. Y Pha. 27fir. Doty, E. M., Springfield, Cin. 1750 Douglass (2), Chas., Bath, Me Bus. 740 Douglass, Rev. E., S. Bridgewater, Ms.. Bos. 3188 Douglass, Isaac II.. M.n., Utiea. N. Y. Plm. 2112 Douglass, Rev. R.D., Plattsburg,N.Y. Ros. 32S6 Downey, Rev. G. D., Sinclairvillo, N.Y. N. Y. 2649 Downs. Geo. E., Fraucestown, N. II... Ros. ".',41 Drake, Rev. J. W.. Gettysburg, O Cin. 3053 Drake, w. L.. Frederickton, Cin. 36S1 Drew. Tlins.. Utica, New York Pha. "010 Drumm, Rev. J. It., m. d.. Bristol, Pa.. Pha. 2335 Drury.E. L., Worcester lios. 2766 Dudley, Rev. II. F . S. Trenton, N. Y. Pha. 3313 Duffield, Rev. G. W., Adrian, Mich.... Det. 1S46 Duffield, Saml. W.. Adrian, Mich Chi. 1412 Duncan, Rev. C. C. B., Bristol, Pbg. 34S0 Duncan. Rev. J. p... Cumberland, 0... Pbg. 2173 Dunlap, A. S., Cross Roads, Pha. 2656 Dunlap, C, Baltimore Bal. 2S21 Dunlap, Rev. Robt., Pottstown, Pa Pha. 2230 Dunn. Rev. .las. B.. New York N. Y. 2047 Dunn. Luke, Baltimore Bal. 2808 Dunn, Rev. L. A„ Fairfax. Vt Wn. 3S42 Durgin.Rev. D. W.C., Hampton, N. U. Bos. 3283 Durham. Rev. II. C, Chelsea, Mass.... N. Y. 204S Duryea(2), Rev. Jos. T.. New York.... Pha. 1889 Dutch. E. J.. Peoria Pen. 1690 Duti her, Rev. E. C, Graton, N.Scotia. Pha. 2842 Dutcher, Jno. A.. Milwaukee Intl. 3794 Dutton, Chas., Boston Pha. 2384 Dysart, Rev. T. II.. Urbanna, Cin. 1751 Dysinger, Jno. C, Pennsylvania Col- lege, Gettysburg Pha. 1859 Eadie, Rev.J.W., Penningtonville, Pa. Pha. 2024 Earle, J. Bf., Abington, Mass Pes. 3656 Eaton. Rev. S. J. M.. Franklin, Pa Pbg. 2002 Eckey, Rev. J. II., Holmes' Mills, o... Pbg. 2858 Eddy, Rev. D. C, D.D., Philadelphia. .. Pha. 2033 Edgar, Rev. Jno., Falls Village, Ct.... Pha. 3093 Edwards, Miss E. M., Augusta, Mich.. Chi. 2604 Edwards, Rev.J.H.W. Lebanon, N.H. Bus. 2457 Eells, Rev. Jas., D.D., Brooklyn Pha. 1770 Eldridge, Rev. A., Detroit Det. 1840 Ellerson, Rev. (>.. Portlandvillo, N.Y. Pha. 3961 Ellinwood, Rev. Frank F., Rochester. Pha. 1892 Elliott. Rev. .1. E., Ridgebury, ct Pha. 1666 Elliott, W. M., Sinking Springs, Tin. 1018 Ellis. Rev. .1. M . Cleveland Cle. 2688 Ellsworth, Rev. A. A., Milton), Mass.. Bos. 2566 Elmendorf, .Tas. L. II., Brooklyn Bkn. 3300 Emmons(3).Rev. II.V., Hallowi ll.M. . lios. 2314 England, Rev. G. A., Chicago Chi. 2100 Eusworth, Mrs. — .Chicago Chi. 2597 Ereck, Caspar. Baltimore Bal. 344S Erskine, Rev. Jno., Newburg, N. Y... Pha. 3292 Erwin, Rev. J., Rome, N. \" Pha. 8500 Eshelman, S., Greenfield, Cin. 3055 Estabrook, Prof. J., Ypsilanti, Mich... Det. 1839 Eustis, Rev. W.T.,d.d.,N. Haven, Ct. N.Y. 2644 Evans (2), A. S., Fort Wayne, Ind Pha. 2235 Evans. Rev. D. II.. Palmyra, Mich Det. 1S37 Evans. Rev. .7. G., Fairhury. Ill I'eo. 3775 Everest, Rev. A. E.. Mooers, N. Y Pha. 3S18 Everett, Rev. Wm. P.. Albany Pha. '-'7 "23 Everts, F. C, Washington Wn. 2149 Ewing, Rev. E. C. .Ashfield. Mass Itos. 3200 Eysenbach, Rev. Louis, Litiz, Pa Pha. 3642 Fairfield, Rev. Minot W., Obcrlin, 0... Pha. 2105 Fairlee. Rev. Wm.. Evanston. Ill Chi. 2090 Faris(2), Rev. W. B., Washington, 1'a. Pbg. 1365 Farnham, Amos w„ Oswego, N. Y.... Bin*. 3121 Favor, Chas, C, Boston Bos. 3547 Farrington, Rev. Z. R., Holden, Me... Ros. 1725 Farwell, Hon. Jno. V., Chicago Chi Fanlks, Rev. .Tas. B.. Stapleton, N. Y.. Pha. 2517 Fay, Rev. II. C, Northwood, N. II Bos. 2700 Fay, Rev. N. F., Montgomery, Wn. 2470 Fay, Rev. Osmer W., Chicago (Cong.) Theol. Sem.., Chi. 1414 Feather, Rev. .7. B., Granville, W. Ya. Pbg. 3595 Fellows, Rev. Geo., Milwaukee eld. 2106 Ferguson, Rev. A. II., Hudson, N. Y.. N. Y. 2043 Ferris, Rev. L. Z„ Weymouth, Moss... Bos. 3175 fold Phineas, E. Charle'mont.Mass... Ros. 3SU Fields, Rev. A. B.. Ml. Pleasant. Pa... Pbg. 2005 Fife. Rev. N. II. G.,ConnellBville, Pa.. Pbg. 3713 Fillmore. Rev. I. 0., Syracuse Pha. 3521 Findlay, W. A., Allegheny, Pa Pbg. 2S63 Fisher ,2'. Rev. Geo . Galway, N. Y.... Pha. 2435 Fisher. Rev, .Tas. B., Utica, N. Y Cta. 3115 Fisher,* Rev. Jas. P., Westficld. N. Y. Pha. 1902 Fisk, Rev. P. P... Dtaeut. Mass Ros. 3018 Fiske. Rev. A. S.. Minnesota Wn. 2164 Fiske, Jno. 0., Rath, Me Ros. 2042 Fitch, Dav., Brooklyn Pha. 300S Fitts. Rev. ,T. II., W. Boylston, Mass... Ros. 2559 Fitz(2), .'Samuel E., Chelsea, Mass Bos. 3103 Fletcher. Rev. J., Sonthington.Ct Pha. 2462 FolSOm, Rev. a. P.. Geneseo, N.Y Btlf. 2781 F. .Norn. J. G„ Winchester, Mass Bos. 1895 Foote. Rev. E. J.. Syracuse Pha. 3163 Forbes, John Irving, Philadelphia Pha. 3221 Ford. Henry, Dtica, N. Y Uta. 3096 Ford. Nathaniel, M.D., Brooklyn Bkn. 2119 Fordham, Chas. W, Patchogue, N Y. Bkn. 3329 Forsyth.Rev.— ,Bnskirk's Bridge,N.Y. Pha. 1S75 Foss, Chas., Abbott, Me Ros. 3499 Foster(2), A. 0, W.Springfield, Mass. Wn. 1893 LIST OF DELEGATES. 1864. 019 Poster, D R.,.Prl ton, N.J I'lia. 2022 Foster, Jno. Y., Now ITork Pha, 2209 Foster,ReY, Roawcll, Cnicopee, Muss. Pha. 3157 Fonlks, Jno., Marietta, Pa Wn. 2472 Fowler(2), Bernard, Brooklyn Bkn. 2756 Fowli - .1 W., Brooklyn Bkn. 2900 Fowler, Rev. P. II .. D t>.,l tics Pha. 2497 Fox. Rev. C. S., Addison, N. V Bnf. 3552 Fox, Rev. H., Fabius, N. X Pha. 3022 Fox, Rev. I is i: , Bnrlingt X.I.. Pha, 2303 Francis, Cyrus H , New Uaven,Ct Pia. 8161 Francisco, Jos., New York N. V. 3698 Frankland, Benjamin, Cincinnati Cin. 1316 Franklin, D. D., a, n . Cpnneaut, i> Cle. 2836 Fniser, Rev. G., Wintersville, Ohio Pha. 3154 Frazier, S< R., St. Clairsvillo, Ohio Cin. 1750 French(2), Rev. C. I'.. Buckhannon, W. To Pbg. 1613 French (3), Jno., Brooklyn Bkn. 2135 French, .1 D. » . Boston, Mass Bos. 1669 Frew li. J. P.. Haverhill, Mass Bos. 31S9 Freuch,S.F., Indover Thcol. Sem.... Boa. 17S2 Fribley, Ri v. .1 » . New Philad'a, O. Cin. 1741 Frink, Bcv. TJ C, Melbourne, C. E.... 1!"- 3540 Fritz, Rev. J.r. . I'm. Grove, Pa riia. 3453 Frost, Rev. Louis P., Rusbford, X. v.. Buf. 1849 Fulford, Rev. !>.. Norway, X. V Pha. 2414 Fuller, Rev. A.. Hallowoll, Me Bos. 1765 Fuller, Bev. C. D., Troy, X. II Bns. 3539 Fuller, Rev. S. R.. Rome, X. Y Pha. 342s Galbraitb,Rev.B C .Gowanstown, Md. Hal. 2810 Galloghy, Jas., M. »., High Hill, Pbg. 2S57 Gaily, Morrit, Rochester, X. Y Pha. 3204 Gammell, A. M, Warren, It. I Pha. 2628 Qardiner,Rev. Austin, Springfield, Ms. Pha. 3527 Gardiner, Rev. I. M., Curweusville, Pa. Pha. 2217 Gai ner.Eev.— ,Buskirk's Bridge.N.T. Pha. 1^74 Garland, Rev. J. M., Whitlow, Me X. Y. 2642 Garner, Harrison I:. W. Philad'a Pha. 3215 Garrettson, K. v.. Perth lmboy,N..T. liar. 3210 Garvin, J. P., ». »., Kcndallvillo, Ind. Cle. 2S3S Gary, Kev. Thos. B., Columbia, Ind... Ind. 1207 Gassard, Rev. T M . Pre . ott, Wis Ind. 1305 Rev. VS m., S lit Pen v, Pa. Pbg. 3726 Gati . I. W .. New Haven, CI Pha. 8013 Gates Rev.H.N., Barkhampstead, Ct. Pha. 3520 Gates, .ia». II . si. Paul, Minn St. !•. 2196 (lat.-. Rei Nnthanii I, Bedford, Pa.... Pha. 1810 Gal Rev. N. B., Elbinsville, Pa Pha. 3271 Gault, G Bi iokl} Bkn 2748 1. in- 1:. 1 Jonath hi i'. Philad'a X. \ 139 Gibson, Bev. O. L Newark, N. Y Buf. 3125 Gibson. Ri v R., Chatficld, Mum Chi Gifibrd, Rei I ".. Jai ville, X. Y... Pha. 3266 1. ill. .1 K.'. *. I... a I., \ I'..],.. I..1I. X. Y Bnf. 3856 j Rc\ « m. II.. Grnnby, Ct. Pha, 2190 1. .I tin 1 "in \ . Glonw I. Ind In. I. 1941 Gill, Kev. W. I., Essex, Ct liar. 3S49 Gillett, II. A . Valparaiso, [nd riii, 1861 Qillott, Philip ii . I' ia Peo. 1689 Gladden, Rev. « ., Morrisanio, X. Y... N. Y. 2641 Gladwin, Rei H in .1.. Eubuln, town. St. I.. -44n Gls ow, E. i: Ule wn, Pa Pha. 3207 Glenn, S, M.. Allegheny, Pa Pbg. 2864 Godfroy.Kev. \ C, Dover, Me Bos. Is77 Godfrey, Lewis, Binghamton, X. V Pha. 3968 Godfrej Rei B B., Newtown, N. Y_. N. Y. 2640 Godwin, V. v.. Philadelphia Pha, 2280 Goodale, A. 1).. m.i... Now York Wn. 2107 Goodman(2), Jno. B., m. n.. Philad'a... Pha, 2446 ii in. h. Rev. W. II . Cleveland Ck. 2512 Qosncll, M. T., Haiti re Hal. 2067 Gould, Bev. Albert, Rock Botl Ms. Bos. 2965 Graff, Win . Philndi Iphi i Pha. 2302 Graham, Roy. Jno. B., Morristown, O. Pbg. 2000 Graham, Rev. J. F., Sparland, III Peo. 2367 Graham, Rev. Loyal Y., Somerset, Pa. Pha. 2225 Graham, Robert, Philadelphia Pl.a. 2261 Grant, Rev. Henry M, E. Canaan, Ct. N. Y. J ; 16 Grant,S. Hastings Pha. 2:::;7 Graves 2), Kev. A.T., Plaiufield.N.J. Pha. 3306 Graves, Prof. Jackson, Dryden, X. Y. Pha. 1785 Graves, Nelson A., Albion, N. Y Buf. 1774 Greene, A. M.. X. Andover Depot, Ms. Pha. 2021 Gregg, Rev. A. 11,, Evansl Ill ('hi, 2 1 Gregg, Rev. » I! , Philadelphia Pha. 1497 Gregg, "in. II .. Wilmington, Del Pha. 3423 Hi ..iv, lh v. II. S., Ploy, X. V Pha. 2330 Gridley, .1. J., Ypsilanti, Mich IM. 1838 Gridley, T. T., Marshall, Mich Chi. 1421 Griffin, A., m. n„ Albany Pha. 2085 Griffin, Rev. Jno. H, Cornish, N. II.. Bos. 3659 Grimes, Jno. M.. Owcgo, X'. V 1 2052 Grimes, Rev. W. M,. Cadiz, Pbg. 1621 Griswold, Leonard, Dryden. X. Y Pha. 1474 Grover, N. W., W. Bethel, Me Bos. 3245 GuiUord, E, New Hampton, X. II p,,s. 1962 Qunsaulus, Rev. W. A., Granville, O. Cin. 3680 Gwin, Edwin, Boston Wn. 2145 Hagen, Rev. — , AUentown, Ps Pha. 1770 Hague, Win. W., Albany Bkn. 2298 Hidght, Thos., New York Wn. 2158 Haines, Jas., Albia, I. ova St. 1.. 3753 Haines, Rev. Seldon, Middle Gran- ville, N.Y I'h, i 1897 Hair, Rev.G M CambridgeCitj tnd Ind. 3219 Hale Edw., W. Philadelphia t niviioiv a I Pha. 1492 Haley, Saml. G., E. ludover, X. n ... Bos. 2979 Hull. Rev. E.. Chntsworth. Ill Peo. 3774 Ri I Geo. 1 Ti..y Pha. 1904 Hall, Jas., Jefferson, Mo Bos. 1454 II. ill Jr., Jonathan, New York Pha. 8706 Hall(2), .1 E . » hi. n M 1SS I'lia. 2795 11 ill. Ri i Sainl Ron ough, Pa Pha. 2219 Hall, Ihv S. II., nn. Owi go, X V. . Pha. 1973 Halteman 3), Rev. D.E., Marengo, 111. Chi. 2098 620 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Hamer, Thos., Utica Plia. 3011 Hamilton, Geo., Baltimore Bal. 2084 Hamilton, Rev. S.L.,Wethersfield, III. Cin. 1736 Hammoud, J. C, Amherst, Mass Bos. 3102 Hammond, Rev. J. R.. N. Village, N.Y. N. Y. 2395 Hammond, S. M., New Village, N. Y.. N. Y. 2393 Hammond, W. W., Cambridge, Mass.. Bos. 2972 Hancock, Rev. Chas., Albany, 111 Chi. 2611 Hanna, Rev. Thos.. Philadelphia Phn. 1709 Hanson, C. V., Waterville, Me Bos. 3813 Hanson. G. C, Williamsburg, N. Y.... Bkn. 2123 Harding, Rev. H. F., Machias, Me 11ns. 3653 Harding, Rev. J. W„ Longmeadow, Ma. Pita. 2059 Hardy, Rev. J. R., Oskaloosa, Iowa..... St. L. 3749 Harkness, Jas. E„ Cincinnatus, N. Y.. N. Y. 3302 Harley, M. P.. Sultzer's Store. Pa Pha. 2220 Harlow, Rev. R. W., Brownsville, Vt. Bos. 3660 Harmon (2), Rev. B. F., Pleasant Ridge, Cin. 3042 Harned(2), Jos. E..M.D., Philad'a Pha. 2264 Harpending (2), O.G., Bennington, Yt. N.Y. 3574 Harrington. Wm, N. Adams. Mich.... Pet. 3414 Harris (4), ,Tas.M.,M.D., Philad'a Pha. 2227 Harris. Maj. J. R.. Vicksburg St. L. 1703 Hart, Samuel E.. Adrian. Mich Det. 2771 Hart. Wm. Edgar. Brooklyn Bkn. 3338 Hartshorn, Rev. V. J., Bangor, Mo.... Bos. 143S Hartsough. Rev. L., Cincinnatus, N.Y. Pha. 2058 Harvey. Rev. C, Sandwich. Ill Chi. 30S2 Hascall, Rev. W. M.. Mansfield, Pa.... Buf. 3556 Haskell, S. S.. Brooklyn, N. Y Bkn. 2401 Haskell. Rev. T. N., E. Boston. Mass.. Pha. 2327 Hatfield, Rev. R. M„ n. o, Brooklyn.. Pha. 1495 Haviland, 0., Salisbury, Ct N. Y. 2033 Hawca(2), Rev. Edw.. Waterville. Me, Bos. 1460 Hawkins, I. Clarence, Brooklyn Bkn. 332S Hawks, Rev. Jno.. Rockville, Ind Ind. 1351 Hawks, Rev. T. II.. d.d, Cleveland.. Cle. 2375 Hay, Rev. A. J.. Philadelphia Pha. 2206 Haj-den, Rev. II. C. W. Meriden. Ct... N. V. 1966 Hayes, Thos., m. d., Savannah, O Cin. 3902 Haynes, Rev. Z. S., S. Royalton, Vt... Bos. 2707 Hayt. Jr.,S. A., Princeton Theol. Setn. Pha. 2009 Hayward. A. Homer. Lowell. N. Y.... Uta. 3777 Ilayward. Rev. W. II.. Lowell. Mass... Bos. 1653 Hazard, A. C. Great Bend, Pa. Wn. 2162 Hazlewood, F. T., Boston Bos. 2976 Headley. Rev. P. C, Philadelphia Pha. 1635 Headley, Col. Saml. F.. Washington... Pha. 1667 Healoy, Jas. F., Genesee Grove, HI Chi. 2551 Healey, Rev. J. W.. Milwaukee Chi. 2111 Heart, V, C, Evauston, 111 Chi. 2013 Henck, Lewis, Baltimore Bal. 2814 Henderson, Rj?v.S.M., Powningv'e. Pa. Pbg. 2440 Henry. Rev. J. Addison, Philad'a Pha. 22S9 Henry, Wm. M., Starkey, N*. Y N. Y. 2086 Henson. Jos., Brooklyn N.Y. 2035 Henson, Kev. P. S.. Philadelphia Pha. 1489 Herbert, Rev. C. D., Newburyport, Ms. Bus. 3247 Herring, Rev. C. M., Dover, Me Bos. 1439 Herron, Rev. J. C, Locust Hill, Pa.... Pbg. 1388 Heydrick (3), E. M., Brooklyn, N.Y... Bkn. 2138 Hibbard (2), R.F.. Brooklyn Bkn. 2270 Hickman, Rev. W. W„ Pennsville, Pa. Pbg. 3711 Hickox, Geo. A.. Saline. Mich Det. 1216 Ilil.'l Rev. Chas., Philadelphia Pha. 2202 Ilihrreth, Milo, Northboro', Mass Bos. 2245 Hill, Geo., Dryden, N. Y Pha. 1473 Hill,*I!ev. J. Bancroft, Temple, N.H.. Bos. 1760 Hill, Rev. M. F., Constableville.N. Y. Pha. 2416 Hills, C. D., Westfield, Mass Bos. 2975 Hine, Rev. 0. D., Lebanon, Ct Pha. 2534 Hinman, G. E.. Holland Patent, N. Y. Pha. 2946 Hinman, Rev. S.. E. Homer, N. Y Pha. 2S43 Hinson, Rev. J. M, Brideshurg, Pa... Pha. 2339 Hitchcock, Rev. C. B., Chelsea, Vt Bob. 1764 Hitchcock, Prof. B., Amherst College. Bos. 2768 Hitchcock, G. N., Newton Corner, Ms. Bos. 3241 Hitchcock, Rev. H. C, N. Amherst, 0. Cle. 2833 Hitchcock, Rev. M. H., Westminster, Massachusetts Bos. 2309 Hitchcock, Rev. O. B., Chelsea, Mass. Bos. 1764 Hobart, Rev. C, Prescott, Wis Ind. 1304 Hodge, Rev. F. B., Oxford, Pa Pha. 2524 Hodgkina, D, New Market, N. H Bos. 3322 Hogarth, Rev. Wm., Detroit Det. 1845 Hogeboom. Rev. R., Corning, N. Y... Buf. 3127 Hogg, Jas., Philadelphia Pha. 2670 Hnll.rn,.k.Rcv.C.F.,W. Roylston.Ms. Bos. 1961 Holcomb. Jr.. C. Hartford, Ct Pha. 3108 Holcombe, A. H., Lambertville, N. J. Pha. 3012 Hohlon, Jas. C. New York Pha. 2338 Holiday. Rev. J. T.. W. Union. Ind. 1301 Hollister, Martin F., Ithaca, N. Y Uta. 3114 Hollister, Rev. P. H., Brookficlrl. Ct... Pha. 2874 Holman. Rev. G. W.. Radnor. Ta Pha. 1711 Holman.Rev.S.L.,Beekiuanville.N.Y. Pha. 1704 Holmos(2>. H.M.. AndoverTheol.Sem. Bos. 1804 Holmes, Rev. J. M.. Jersey City. N.J. N. Y. 2034 Holstein. Geo. W..M.D., Bridgeport.Pa. Pha. 2306 Hood, J.. Carlisle, Pa Pha. 2538 Hooker, Rev. H. B.. D.n., Boston Bos. 2564 Hooper, Jas. E.. Baltimore. Bal. 2823 Hope. Peter E.. Philadelphia Pha. 2263 Hopkins, J. R, Brooklyn Bkn. 2120 Hopkins, Rev. S. M, Belfast, N. Y Buf. 3690 Hopkins. Itev.T.M. Bhiomiiigtonjnd. Ind. 1341 Hopley, Rev. Samuel. Windham, Ct... liar. 3622 Horton, II. B., M.D.. Eden, N. Y Buf. 3129 II.. -I brd, F., Brooklyn Bkn. 2142 Hosford* Miss Frances. Olivet, Mich. Chi. 2607 Hough, Rev. J. W.. Williston, Vt Bos. 2308 M..n._lit..ni2i.II.C.,JamaicaPlain, Ms. Bos. 3288 Houghton, Rev. J. C, Still River, Ms. Bos. 3822 Houaton, Rev. A. Y.. Library, Pa Pbg. 1629 Houston. Thomas, Penna -.. Wn. 24S6 Hovey. Rev. H. C, Northampton. Ms. Bos. 2239 Howard, Stephen, Amherst, N. S Pha. 2876 LIST OF DELEGATES. 1S64. G21 Howbert, Rev. A.R^'Bellefdntaine.O. Pirn. 2223 Htiwlett, Rev. J. R., Washington Wn. 2143 Hubbard, Rev. C. II., Beimingtun.Vt. Pha. 2433 Hubbard (2 . Rev. G. H., Aurora, III... Cbi. 3074 Hubbard(2),G.W.,N. Charleston, N.H. Bos. 1688 Hubbard, Rev. J., Biddeford, Me Bos. 2313 II ill II. Rov. U.S., Aiiili.ir-t. Mass.... Bos. 2666 IIul.i I, ii. , olivet College, Mi I..... t'lil. 8549 Hughes, Melancthon, Loudouville, 0. Ilel. 1307 HngheB, Rev. T. E., Springdale, Pbg. 8736 Hughes, Rev. Watson, W. Newton, Pa. Pbg. 371 s II i] ll.m .1. Kev.Menitt,; Sandy Hill. Pa. Pha. 2412 Hull, Rev. J. F.. New Carlisle, Ohio... fin. 3054 Humphreys, COmll, Albany Pha. 2297 Hunt. Edwin, S. Sudbury, Mass Bos. 3251 Hunt,.!. B, M.o., Cleveland eie, 2828 Hunt. Rev. L. B., Aurora, In.I fin. 1311 Hunt, Rot-.S., Albion, N.Y Buf. 1773 Hunt. T. Ihiight. Wat.rville, X. Y.... Pha Kurd, Rev. Prof. f.. Bnffal Buf. 1854 Hurd, Rev. Prof. I... Lockport, X. Y... Pha. 2420 Hurlburt, Chas. A., Geueseo, X. Y Pha. 27'.i7 Hurlburt, C.S.,m.d., Springfield, Mass. Pha. 2727 Hussey, Rov. Jno., Loekland, Ohio fin. 1934 Hutchinson, II. M., Springfield, Mass. Pha. 272.) Hutchinson, Rev. Jno. P., Ogtleu, Ind. Intl. 1295 Hutchinson, R. X., Lambertville, X..I. Pha. 2721 Hutchinson, J. H., Columbia City, la. Chi. 3060 Hyde. Chas. M., Brimfield, Mass Bos. 3658 Hyde, Rev. N. A.. Indianapolis Ind. 1942 Hyil.i. Rev. Ira I!-. Dryden, X. Y Pha. 2980 [ngorsoll, J. E., Cleveland Cle. 2S30 IninefJi. Rev. Robert, D. D., Philn.... Pha. 2589 Irwin, Rev. 6. w.. Lacon, III IV). 3588 Irwin, Rev. Jos. 1.-. Shelbyville, ln.l.. Ind. 2577 Irwin, Nine. in. Cherry Tree, Pa Pbg. 2860 Irwin, Rev. Robert, Muncio, Indiana. Ind. 1347 Ii..,::,, si- phen, Batavia, N.Y Pha. H'.Tl .la. kson, II. P.. fedarville, Ohio fin. 174:. Ja bs (2), B.F, Chicago Chi. 2107 .la. obs, Rev. K. T.. Meredith, N. Y.... X. Y. 2392 Jacobs,HJB.,Penn'aCoIlege,Gettysb , g. Pha. 1868 James, Rev. U.S.. u.s. Philadelphia.. Pha. 2428 James, Wm., Baltimore Bal. 2069 Jameson, Wm., B klyn..... Bkn. 2898 Jamison, Rev. E. II., Marion, Iowa.... St. L. 3748 .la in... hi. Re v., I. M., Ill.n.iiiiiiu'lale. O. PI .-.-. 3717 Jamison, Rev. Samuel, Elizabeth, Pa. Pbg. 8603 .lanney. It. M., Baltimore Bal. 2822 Jafiues, Rev. Parker, Farmington, Me. Bus. 3888 Jefieris, D. W., Westchester, Pa Pha. 2991 Jeffers, Rev, W. II., Bellefontaine, O.. Pbg. 1673 Jenkins, L.C., New Bedford, Mass Bos. 8289 J. ni Rov, Geo. 11.. Wellsboro', Pa... Pha. 2026 Jewell, Rev. F. F.. Adams. X. Y Pha. 8628 Jewell, Rev. W. F., OhltOWIl, Me Be.S. 1834 Jewett, Thos., Rindge, X. II Bos. 2310 Johnson, Am. is II., Middlet.-li. Mass.. B..s. 232s Johns, ii, R. v. A. P., And. Tlieol. Sent. Bos. 1791 Johnson, Chas. C, Bufialo Bnf. 2783 Johnson, Rev. Geo. II . Somerset, Pa. Bal. 344.3 Johnson, Rev. Il.i ii. k. Pittsburg Pbg. 2003 Johnson, Homer, m t>. Cleveland Cle. 26S6 Johns Lewis M, Pitt-held. Mass... Pha. 3307 Johnson, R. G . Dryden, X. Y Pha. 147" Johnson.Rev.S., Chenango ForkSiN.1 . Buf. 1777 .lohtisnii, Silas, Oscaloosa, rows Chi. 2(515 . I. .In, -..ii. Rov. Thos. S.Oxford, Wis... Pha. 2558 Johnston, Geo., Carlisle, Pa Pha. 2875 .l..hn-t..ii,lt. v. II. ... X, Kiiuxville.Ill. Peo. 2944 Johnston, Th.,- s.. Newark, X. .1 Pha. 2531 Johnston, R.-v. w. o.. Philadelphia... Pha. 2260 .1 -. Rov. D. W., Greencastle, Ind... Chi. 3069 Jones, R.-v. ii. w., EvanBton, in Chi. 2101 Jon, -. Rev, E. I... Greenville, Ohio.... Cin. 3G74 Jones, Henrj C, m.i... New York X. Y. 1969 .1 -. Horatio Gates, Philadelphia.... Pha. 3965 .h.ii. -.2'. .1. 11.. If. D, llelvi.lere. III... fhi. 2545 Jones, Rev. .1. F.. Allegheny City, Pa. Pbg. 2sts Jon. -. Jesse 11 . Williamsburg, X. Y.. Bkn. 2118 Jones, Martin P., Philadelphia Pha. 2344 Jones, Rev. X . Yellow Springs. O Cin. 3078 Jones, Thos. It.. Buckaunan, Pa Pbg. 3350 Jones, Rev. W., Iowa Falls, Iowa fin. 1921 Jones, Rev. Wm., LowviUe, N. Y Pha. 2411 .l.iii,-, ;,. W. Bidkar, Brooklyn Bkn. 2139 .1 s, Rev. W M., Rochester, N. Y~. Phw 1705 Joy, Rev.Welllngt Brockton, N.Y. Pha. 3477 Jndd, Rov. H., Hudson, Michigan fie. 3146 Junkin, Rev. A. C, W. Granville, Pa.. Pbg. 3598 Junkin, Rev. Geo., n.n., Philad'a Pha. 2629 Junkin, .1. (i.. a. t... Wyandot, O Ind. 1306 Kedzie, Rov. A. S., Somerset, Mich.... Det. 3608 Ke.l/ie. George, Deerfield, Michigan.. Pet. 3609 Kedzie. vt in.. I rfleld, Michip ,,, Det. 3610 K.i/i I. i: . Baltimore Bal. 2081 Kelley, Edward A.. Philadelphia Pha. 2221 Kellogg, A. w„ Milwaukee fhi. 3064 Kellogg, Martin, Whitehall, N. J Wn. 2480 Kellogg, Ret 3. 0., Claremont, N. H. Bos. 3376 K.lly, Rev. .In.,.. McConnellsville, Pa. Pbg. 1S17 Kelly. R.v. M. It.. Yille Rhine, III Chi. 2108 Kelso, II' V. .!.,-.. M..111..1 \ille. Pa Pbg. 3602 K.l-v Rev. H. S., Granby, Mass Bos. 2560 Kemp, l: A . Evansl Ill fhi. 2015 Kemp, N P.. BoBton Pha. 3708 Kendall, ,l.,|i:,- f . 1 Hi lislalile. Ma-S ... BOS. ".Sill Kendig, Rev. ,M. s.. Canonsburg, Pa... Pbg. 2955 Kennedy, Rev. J. P., Newman's Mill-. Pa Pbg. 2859 Kennedy. Rev. S. Y.. Illairsville, Pa... Pbg. 3730 Kennedj Ret I S., Jamestown, Pa Pbg. 1374 Kennedy, It in. \V .fail.., Ill fhi. 2548 K.iit.T. D., 'Wnshlngtou Wn. 2148 Kenyon, Rov. s. v.. N. Bay, X. Y Pha. 2922 Koetzle, Rev. 4'h,,.., Cincinnati fin. 1911 Kerfoot, Rev. R.T., Dayton, fin. 3019 Kerr, Rev. Thoe., K. D., Rockford, III fhi. 2109 622 ANNALS OF Till', CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Keichnm, Ebenezer P., Brooklyn likn. 2896 Kimball, n. N . Mil... Me Wo. -Ji'.n Kimball (2), Rev. .1 I' . l-al th.Ms. Bos. ITT'.i Kimball* Jns. Shor Boston Bos. Kimball, J. W., Boston Cin. 8899 King, Fred. A., Providence Pha, 8618 Kin Rev. J. n.. Rod Bank, N. .1 Pha. 8288 King, Richard, Baltimore Bal. 2066 King. Rev. S. W., Brooklyn Bkn. 8464 King, W. P., Adrian, Mich Det. 2772 Kin W. J., Providence Pha. 1871 King, W. ii. i i-lhi, ii Die. 8276 Kin -i.urvi'.'i. W.C., Boonevllle, N Y. Pha, 1642 Kin bury, Rev. VI II.. Pomfret, Vt.. Bos. 8196 Kingsloy, Rev. J. ('.. Worthington, 0. Cle. 8274 Klnkoid, s. p . Callensbnrg, Po Pbj 160M Knl, (2), Rev. I',. V. i..i... Boston Bos. I l.:i Kirkby, Win., Brooklyn Bkn 3831 Kittridge, Rev, A. E . Sun Francisco . Boa 8379 Kitemlllor, Rev.J. II., Ila-.i-i'ii. M.I. Bal. 3446 Kline, Rev. .1 A . Cincinnati Cin. 1324 KHug, Wm. II., Brooklyn Bkn. 8579 Knight, Robt,, Brooklyn Bkn. 8588 Knight, S.H., Hamilton College, vv. I'll.,. 2920 Km. .11. Rev. .1. 11., Wnyland, N. V Bnf. 3864 Knott, Rev. J. 11.. Warner, N. II Bos. 3648 Knowles, Rev. J. II.. Batavia, N. V... Buf. 1852 Knowlton, Rov. A. W., New York Pha, 3166 Knox, Rev. Jno. D., Rochester, Pa Pbj 2169 Knox, Rev. \\ E., Rome, V \ Phn. 3429 K... .us. Rev. i. M., Pottsville, Pa Pha. 3016 Kniiii, Kn.,1. ii.. Brooklyn Bkn. 2406 Kumler, Rev. .1. I'. E .Oxford, <> ('in. 1826 Kyte, Rev. Jas., Bangor, Me Bos. 8191 LaCroix, Prof. J. P., Delaware, Cin. 1926 Lake, Rev. us., Matherton, Mich. ... Cin. IT 17 Lanikln, Rev. H.,Leonard Hollow, P« Buf. 88 18 Landis, Rev. J. I... Pottatown, Pa Phn. 221;. Lane, Rev. J. D., B. Bethany, N \ ... Pha. 3027 Lane, Rev. .1. P.. E. Woymouth, Ms... Bos. 2660 Latbrop, Rev. C. O, Berlin, Wis Chi. 2096 Lathrop(2), Rev.H. D, Springfield, O. I'm. 1814 Law, J. W., Whai.lv, Muss Bos. 2769 Lawrence(2), Arthur, Boston Bos. 171'.'.' Lawrence, Rev. .h..... Oxford, cin. 1932 Lawrence, L. i. . Burlington, VI Bos. 3264 Lawrence, Rev. Thoa, Putnam, N. Y. Pha. 1270 Lawrence, w in. A., Pepperell, Muss... Bos. 3287 Lawson, J. B., Lawsonhani, Pa Pbg 1378 Leo, Rev. R., Pittsburg Pbg. 1812 Leake, K.> Thos., Evnnston, 111 Chi, 2016 Learned, \\ mi. C., Buffalo Buf. 27s;. Lens, l>. P., M n. Pn Phn, 2499 Leason (2), Rev. T. S., Brookville, Pa. Pbg. 1366 Leavitt, 11. P.. Lowell Bos, 2708 Leavitt, Rov. II. ('., W. 11.. 11. .11, VI Bos. 2460 1.. ii in. i Re\ 1; Proi 1.1. nee. Pa Pha. 2056 Lee, Rev. .1. H„ Bovine, N. Y Phn, 2947 l.r.'i. . Rev. T. A., Longineadow, Ms... Bos, 1444 1 Legate, Rev. 0. M., Rome, N. Y Pha. 186] Lehr, Rev. J. 0., Pine Grove, Pa Pha. 3454 Leighton .1. «'.. Now Mail,. 1. \ II. Bos. '.".14 Li Ipi 1. Robt,, Hbokstown, Pa Pbg. 8861 I ..i.l, It.-v. (1. E., Elyria, " Cm. 8037 Leonard, Rev. » in. .1., Rochester Ph.. 2363 Lesley, Rev. C, Willlamsport, M.I Bal. 8444 Leslie, P [..Newton Lower Palls, M-. Bos. 8816 Lester, Rev. T. R., Martinsville, Ind... Ind. 8057 Lestor, Rev. W.H..W. Alexauder,Pn. Phi:. 2441 Leuty, Rev. Wm., Llgonler, tu.i Chi. 2608 Levorance, It. A.. Baltimore Pal. 2816 Levy, Rev. A. J., Cincinnati Pha 8810 Lewi . Elijah. Brooklyn Bkn. 2272 Lewis, Rev. V. A., Troy Pha. 2283 Litchfield, Rev.G.A.,'H lnchendon,Ms. P.-. 2464 Littell, Rov. D. S., Clnkey, Pa Phi;. 2678 Little, Rev. ('. E„ pnirhavrn. VI Pha. 8515 Little, Rev.J. s. Felchville, \ I Bos. 8649 Little, .In... W., M. m„ Concord, X. II... Bos. S53S Little, T. P., Salisbury, N. B Bos. '■'■■'• I I. nil,., Win. M„ Brooklyn Bkn. 2126 Littlew I, Rev. T., West. . \ \. Pha. ".272 Liver re, Rev. s. T, Lowville, X. Y. Hal. 8460 Lloyd, .1. s„ New 1'orl Wm. 2481 Lobdell, Rev. P.. Bridgeport, CI Pha. 2872 Locke, Prank D., Gowunda, N. Y Pha. 2528 Logan.Rov. S. C, Valparaiso, Ind Pha 2010 Longley, Rev. M M., Washington, Ms. Boa 1 1 ■ 1 th, Rov. s. S., Oxford, Cin. 1928 1 is(2), Rev. P.hhii. lain.. Ms. Boa 1404 Loop, Rev. DeW <'.. Ii... hestor Pha. 2299 I... i.l. 0. A.. Portland Bos. 2890 Lore, Rev. D. H, lintlai Buf. 1848 I.,.iv, .1. w„ Buffalo Phn. 2429 Lounsbcry, Rev. !■:.!«.. Philadelphia... Pha. 2620 Love, Rov, \\m. DeLoss, Milwaukee... Wn. 16 8 Lovollj Rov; A. s„ Wcnthersfleld, i'i .. (J. ^ , 1968 Lowes, Prof.J. A., S. Salem, ('in. 1924 Lowvio(2), M. 11.. Port Wayne, Ind.... Pbg. 2185 Lowrie, Rev. J.M M D.n.,Ft. Wayne, tnd. Pha. :'.7'.is Lowry, Rev. 1. X . I a. \ \ Pha. 8029 Lowry, Rov. Thos .Stral 1. P. W..„ Hal. 8606 l,..v.l, Rev.J. P.. Louisville.. Cin. 1981 Luce, Rev. Israel, Watorbury, VI Bos. 2a 11 Luckey, Robt. .1.. Brooklyn Bkn. 2907 Ludlum, Clias. IP. Brooklyn Bkn. 2990 bugg, Rev. Saml., lorkvlllo, Wis . ... Chi, 2609 lain 1, 11. -v. Abraham, w aldoboro', Me. Boa 2916 Luse, Lester, M.B., Barry, 1' Cle. 814] Lyford, Rev. 0. P.. 1!" , X. Y Pha. 2(147 Lyle, A, F., San Francisco Pha. 3213 Lyle, Rev. Jno.,Trei 1 Pha. :;::"! Lyon, Rev. .1. IP. Pittsburg Pbg. 1610 1. Hi... Rev. David, Troy, \ Y Pha. 2281 I allr, ROV. .las. P \..« Co 1, 11.. Pbg. 2954 Mai larland, Jos., Philadelphia Pha. Is;:; Mi. k, Rev. .1. A, Plainlhl.l. Ill Chi. 3077 Malcom, W. D, Springfield, vt Bos. 3190 list of i>i;i.i:<;ati:s. — L864. 623 >l illalieu, Rich. I Baltimore Bal I 32 Mnllery, ls,i. Richard A., Philail'a.... Pha. 1 188 M illory, Chas. P., Philadelphia Phn. 1899 Mallory, Rev. 0. E., Westftold, N. Y ... Bui Mnndevillo, C. E., Middleton, Cl Pha. 8080 Manlovo, Rov. Wui. E., Philadelphia.. Pha. 231T ii.mii Roi i: V i ii. a I ta. 8118 Manning, Rot. Win.. Bath, N. V Phn. 8617 Manweil, Roi B I S. Bridgeton, Me. Bob. I III M Rov. Daniel, d, d . Philad'a ... Pha. 1*90 March, Henry, M. n,, Albany Wn. 216] Markham,Rov.W.F.,Aldi i Creek N 1 Pha. 2417 Markle, Rov. s. M, Oxford, Ohl Cin. IB14 Marks, » in. M , Portlnnd Bos. 1794 Hal I ij . Rev. J. v.. ('in. inn. ui Cin. 1 7 ts M ii h i ■ llfrcd, Montague, Mass I!"-. 1861 Marsh, Rev. .1 I'.n Ii N V lint. 3698 Marshall, Rev. M. Ii.. Buxton Centre, Maine Bos. 2992 M n ball, I-;, ic, Baltimore Bal. 2824 M ,i l, ,11. Rov. W. K.. Bel '. illn I'l.-. 1999 Martin, J. A.. Brooklyn likn. '.!14(> Martindalo, Rev.Thos, E.,W. I'hil;i... Pha. 14Vi. Marvin, Rev, Chas. S., Hebron, N. Y, Try. 2718 Maryatt, I'. I'.. Mansiiold, Pa rim. 8066 Mason, Andrew, Brooklyn likn. 2124 Mason, II, v. 0. C, Hallowell, Mr U<,-. 2973 Mason, Rov. J. W., Lebi n, Ohio Cm. 1766 M i-i Roi rsaai Roxhorough, Pa rim 168] Mathews, C. II.. I'i'i lestown, Pa Pha. 2619 Mntlack, Rov. R. C, Philadelphia Phn. 1487 m.iii.in I:. v.G. V. Prosperity, Pa... Ph ;. 8364 Maxwell, Abraham, Bang.TI I.Bem. U"*. 2919 Maxwell, Morris, Frenchtown, N. J... Pha. 2946 Mi llllster, Rov. .1. R.,Alodo,Ill P 2948 Mi Mlisti ' Ri v. W'm.. Brooklyn Bkn, 84 18 Mi Inn Rei 1 in St. Johnsbnry,Vt. II"-. '-".Mi; McAnlO] . i: i Uex. &., Philad'a.. Pha. 1682 McCampbi |],G M Jcfrersouville,Ind. 1ml. 1949 MoOarrell, ■' K.D., I rankforl Springs, I'n Pbg. 1620 M i lulu. Clay, Chambersburg Phn 2993 .M. rii II I. Rov. A.C., Pittsbnrg Pbg. lsii Mi Hi i mil Rev. J. I'.. Evanston. III. Chi. 2093 M. < 'ii,i . . .ii- . ii llbanj Phn 2 1 10 Mi I, in N.C 1'i'n. 3767 Mi I iiin II. Ii. i W \ K I'l. 1376 Hi I -In ■ I' . I' iilii" Clc. I'.IT.'i Mi i'i.iiiiii I, G T , I'm burg rii-. 2198 M' I'm II. nry, S Boston, Haas Bos. 2662 McCullough 2 ,Kov.J B.,Pottsville,Pu Phn 16 I McCune, Rev. .1 W., If. Mill-. Pn I'l-. 1816 M< I aid, Jr., Pottaville, Pn I'lm. 2343 Mi I aid, Rev. Win . Providence Bus. 2237 Mi Dov Hi 2 Hi - I' M .. I'Hi-t.iii. IV,. Ph i Mi Elroy, Jno r. . lib raj Phn 2 ■ 16 Mi I'lilnnil. II. II.. Flushing, \ V N. Y. 1906 M. mil .in. i , v. luslow, Mi- \ \ 861 9 McGaw, II. v. J. A. P., Blggstille, 111.. Chi I III M Tin™. II.. II I.hn likn. 2128 Mi G 1. Ilil. .1 V. .-' II V 1 N ■. 191 i Mii;, in, I-, Rev. . Cleveland Cle. 2610 hi. .1. v. Boston, i'i Pha. 183 Mriiiii 1 1-. .i;t- , m.d., riiii.i'ii Iphiu I'll i I McHonry, Rev. D. *.. Ifork, v v.... Phn 2691 McHenry, Rov. Win.. Havana, N.-Y... N. \ 370 ■ M' iu. Hi , i' I .. B.D., Cincinnati. Bkn 2268 m. K. . ., Hamilton, Ohio, Cin 19 i McKec, VI M . Bollofontaino, 01 Phn 16 McKlnnej Re> i: B town, [nd.. In, I. 1350 Mi Lnron, Rov, W , Coled N.Y. Phn : ii. i. in jhlin in i. Goo » .. Phil id'n Phn '-'-'"I M, bean Ri > D M. B Allegheny, Pa. Pbg. 1813 M, I.. .,1, .' II, > .- \, l\ Mi s null i.l',,. I'l, |. J177 Mi i Geo. J., Mi'. Philadelphia... Pha. 'J'l-T Mil 1(8), Rev. II.. I;,, i,i« i \ 11. Bos, UI7 M, M. , I, ,.,,,(■ W., Plymouth, M iss . . Bos. 3661 M. Mii line], Rov.J. B., Bcllo Brook, 0. Pbg 3482 Mi Mill in. D. \ i;, , \ I i'l. i. JT'is Mi Mill. i, i Ri V. H II..I..1H1 lull. 111. I' - Mi N.Hi. Rev. 'I 'I.. Trovorton, Pa, . Phn 2794 Mi Neille, 11 'i S., \i« 11. in ,1. Cl .... 1'ha. 3014 M,\:,v ii, \ Homer, Roynoldsburg,0. Cin. I7.'»s McVenn.Ri r.D.C 1 ranklinville, N \ Pha 8724 Mend(2), Rov. A P., Rockford, 111 . Chi 2110 Mead, Rov, Hiram, 8 Hadlej Mass... Bos, 2667 Meeds, Rev, .1. B. n . Pittsburg Pbg. 296] Mi 'ii. in .in,,.. Baston, Pu Pha. 3181 Mondenhall, J. W., Delaware, nlii I'm. 1912 Mercer, Robert, Florenco, Pn I'l,-. 2677 Men 1 .mi, ii.. Tni.v rim. J i02 \l.i 1 1 1111. I' II., VVl tlllHI li 1 , Mi.-, ... BOS. 1 Mcrrlflold, Rov. B.T., Payi ttevillc,Vt. If. 1 1967 Merrimnn, Rev.T.M., bn . ■ . v\ . Ph 1. 28SO M 1 11. II.. N. I'.iniKi ii ■ Mi ... Bos. 2977 M. :. .ill. E W . II. M' , ., I'."-. 8497 Mi I. .,11. iin 1. Him si in '. i 1. 11 316 Michaels, C. I... Franklin, V 1 N V 1966 Miller, Rev. I'. M . Minn. ,. Ohl Pb 1605 Miller, r K., Brooklyn Bkn. -ill Miller, Isaac I... lb klyn likn. 2122 Miller, Rev. .1. D., Evanston, 111 Chi. 2092 Miller, Rev. .1. J., 1 !hni leston 1 m Corners. N. Y Pha. 1638 Miller, lii'i. I N 1: . Indianapolis ... In.l 1946 Miller, Prof. L D., I. Falls, N. Y.. Pha. 8087 Millor, Rov. S . Jnnesville, " 1- Chi Milne, Peter, B Mm likn Mtlner, D. C, Mi. Pleasant, Ohio - » ,i :o M I II. I. I'l. Ii, Ulul.-u.it, 1, Wis.. Ilil 368S Miiiii. II , M D., Brooklyn likn. 213] Mitchell, Rev. Jno., Farming Me. Bos. 1657 Mitchell, II.!.. 1. n, D.B., Washington Pha. 1 166 Mitchell, Rev, Tho G Madison. Mi'. Bos. Ii 1; Modesitt, Rev. W. M.. Akron, V Y ,. Pha. 2735 Monroay, Rov, — , v a fori Pha. 190] Montfort, Kov. C. V., Macomb, III., Chi. 2642 M. nil. 11 II. > I IV, ii-lmij hi l.,,|. 1298 624 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Montfort, J. A., Connersville, Iowa... Cin. 1954 Monteith, Jr., Rev. Jno., Cleveland... Clo. 2879 Moody, D. L., Chicago Clii. 14J7 Mooney(2), Rev. Arthur, Troy Pha. 'J".'i4 Moore, Rev. .lames »., Clinton, 01 Pha, 170S Moore, Levi, M. D., Albany Pha. 27-4 Morand, Augustus, Brooklyn Bkn. 2129 Morehouse, Rev. II. L., Rochester Pha. 2351 Moivll, Rev. I.F., Penn's Grove, N..L Pha. 2530 Morcy(2), Rev. A. 11.. Franklin, Ind.. [nd. 1299 Morey, II. M., Princeton Theol. Sem.. Pha. 1440 Morgan, Rev. 11. 11.. Wabasbaw, Wis. Chi. 2012 Morgan, Rev. W. P., Rural Valley, Pa. Pbg. 1884 Morgeau, Rev. C, N. Ipswich, N. II... Bos. 276] Morley(2),J.H., andover Theol. Sen,. Bos. 1694 Morrell,*Kov. P. P., Gardiner, Me Bos. 2968 Morris, Rev. ii. K., Clarksboro', N. J. Pha. 8728 Morris, Rev. Henri. Port Jervis, X. Y. N. Y. 1910 Morris, Lewis, Brooklyn HUn. 3580 Morris, Rev. s. P.. Portville, N. Y Bnf. 8691 Morrison. Rev. J. B.. Wankogan. III... Chi. 1415 Morrow. S. R., St. Paul St. P. 2192 Morse, Garrett S, Triangle, N. Y Pha. 8928 Mcrton. Rev. A. I).. Maysville, N. Y... Rnf. 1772 Morton, Rev. R. S., Hooketowoj Pa... Pbg. 2001 Moses, I.. II.. Washington Wn. 2154 Mott, Saml. C. L., Sing Sing, N. Y N. Y. L908 Mowry, Rev. Hnvileh, Brooklyn Bkn. 8180 Monger, Rev. E. II.. Tabarg, N. Y Pha. 2741 Murphy, Rev. E. D., Avon, CI Pha. 1607 Murphy, Rev. .1 R„ Salem. N. .1 Pha. 2637 Murphy, Rev. T. C, Philadelphia Pha. 2207 Murray. Rev. C. D., New York N. Y. 1907 Mussor, Jno., Baltimore Bal. 2075 Myers, Henry S., Princeton. N. J Pha, 2294 Myers(2), Rev. P. J. H., Brooklyn Pha. 1805 Nason, Rev. .1. II.. Smyrna, N. Y N. V. 380] Naylor, Rev. A. R.. Chester, III Cin. 1787 Neale, Rev. Rollin H., d.d., Boston... lies. 1452 N lies. .1. A . Port Deposit, M.I Bal. 2071 Neill, Rev. Henry, Geneseo, N. Y Pha. 2657 Nelson, II. F. Walnut Hills, O Cin. 1922 Newbold, Rev.Vt". A..Wilniington. Del. Pha. 2401 Neweomb, Ubert S., Albany Pha, 8228 Neweomb. Chas., Boston Re.s. 2214 Neweomb, O. W., Brooklyn Bkn, 2751 N. wlemse. Rev.l.K. Crown Point. Intl. Ind. IMS Newman. Rev. E. S., Attica, N. Y Pha. 273s Newt Rev. 0. II., Delaware, O Cin. 1940 Nichols, II. I.C.. Haverhill, Mass Bos. 8829 Nichols, Rev. C. L., Princeton, Mo Res. 8167 Nichols, Rev. Starr, Chicago Chi. 142S Nichols, Rev. W. H.,Monson, Mass.... Bos. 3400 Nichols, Rev. W. J, Lewiston, N. Y... But'. 2770 Nil holson(2),Rev.C.P., E, Boston.Ms. Res. 2868 Nel.le. Rev. C, Wilbraham, Mass Res. 1445 N.lile. Rev. T. K., Winthrop, Me Bos. 1055 Nock, J. A.. w. Phil'a. Divinity Sel 1. Pha. 2821 Noras, Rev. W. II., Brooklyn Cin. 3003 Norton, Chas. A., Bangor Theol: Sem. Bos. 2010 Neri. ei. II. M., Philipsburg, N.J Pha, 2282 Neves. !•:. M.. Newark, N.,1 I'ha. 2383 Neve. Rev, II. V.. Pittsburg l'hg. 373S Ogden, Rev. .I.e., Portville, N. Y Hut. 8858 l II. .,11. Rev. . I, B., Chicago Chi. 14IO Orange, Rev. S. .1 St. L. 3759 Ormsby, M. P., Mt. Carroll. Ill Chi. 1417 Osgood, n. W., K.ene, N. II Bos. 3664 linen. Rev. A.. Lynn, Muss Res. 2668 Owen, Rev. Griffith, Baltimore Bal. 1281 linen. Miss N„ Centrevillc, Mich Cin. 174:1 Paddock, Kobe. N. Ray, N. Y I'ha. 2928 Paddock(2), Rev. \Y. F, Philad'a I'ha. 24ii4 Page, E. 11., Atkinson, Me Bos. 3828 Page. Rev. M. 11., Belvidere, 111 Chi. 2605 Page, Rev. s. B., Cleveland Ole. 2373 Paine, Rev. .1. I... Fayette, Iowa Chi. 2553 Pa] i, A. Ii., Newton Theol. Sem.... Bos. 2918 Park, ii.-,,. M., Rea.lliebl, Me lies. 2764 Park. W.J3.,Andover Theol. Sem., Ms. Boa. 1802 Parker. II. K, Red Bank, N. J Pha. 3230 Parker. Rev. C. C . Waterhury, \ t Ros. 1767 Parkei (2), Henry F., Reading, Mass... Ros. 3260 Parker, Rev. Jno., Rochester.. Bnf. 1706 Parker, L. F„ m. p., Vermont Wn. 2163 Pai kei |2i. S. . I.. M. n„ Ithaca, N. Y.... Pha. 2216 Parker(2), Rev. W.W., Cambridge, Ms. Res. 1S7S Purkhurst, II. A., Baltimoro Bal. 1230 Parkins,, ii, M. ft., Island Creek. Pbg. D322 Parkinson, Rev. Boyal, Randolph, vi. Res. 3635 I'm melee, Kev. .1. II., Kenosha, Wis... Chi Parrott, Rev, Geo., Monroe, Cin. 1952 Parry. Rev. P. B., Pecatonica. Ill Chi. 3072 Parsons, Rev. E 11.. Deny, N. II Bos. 2886 Parsons, Rev. Jno., Medina., N. V Pha. 3028 Parsons, J. L., Grand Blanc, Mich Det. 3613 Parsons, Rev. Levi. Mt. Morris, N. Y.. Bnf. 3553 Parsons, Rev. S., Somerville, N. J Pha. 2671 Partridge, Asa, w. Medway, Maes Res. 3824 Parviiii'.l. Rev.B .I.Chelteii Hills. Pa. Pha. 149S Patterson, Edward, New York Pha. 2115 Patterson, Jno., Green Point, N. 1 Bkn. 2038 Patterson (3), Jno., Philadelphia Pha. lsoi Patterson, Rev. Robt., d.d., Chicago... I'ha. 3519 Patterson, Rev. Saml., Seereville, O... Pbg. 3727 I'attis.iii. \Y„ Ypsihuiti, Mich Dot. 2683 Paibm. i;,v. .las. L, Clarksfield, tl Pha. 2M7 Patton(S), Rev. Wm. D„ Philad'a I'ha. 2279 Paul, Jr., Hosca, Cleveland Clo. 3279 Payson, Rev. Chas. II., New York Pha. 2495 Peach, Rev. E. N., Cleveland Pbg. 1680 Pearce, Jno., Brooklyn Bkn. 3462 Pearl, Chas. S. . De.lliam. Me Res. 3809 Pearl,* Rev. Cyril, S Fi pert, Me.... Ros. 1462 Pearson, Rev. K. C, w. Philadelphia. I'ha. 1475 Peat -"ii. Rev.J.B., Plymouth Hollow, Conn Pha. 1698 Pearson, S. W., Bangor Theol. Sen Bos. 27o7 LIST OF DELEGATES. — 1864. 625 Pease, Rov. J.J , Blnghamton, N. Y... Phn 81 10 Peck, A, Ii.. It. re Bui, 2818 Pei k, Rev, Luther, Scranton, Pa Pha. 2801 Peer, Win, Cold Spring, N. v N. v S697 Pei i. Re< S D . Ohelseo Mnss Bos. 17:1 Peloubi t, Rei r \ Oakham, Mass... Bob. 1654 perrlgrinc, Rev. J S,— . Minnesota. CM. 1429 Perry, Rev, Joe., Philadelphia Phn. 8873 P. i. . . Rev, Geo l, Vi nnngo co, I'... Bui 18 18 Petci-8,J. W, Delaware, Ohio Cin, 1938 Pi lore, Ml . Chicago Chi. 1 124 Pottil I. W, Mil.... N. Y Bui. -J77S l'.n.n .ii Rev. J. II. Westbcook, Ct, Pha. 2049 Pettj Km 1, I. . High Hill, Ohio... Pb| 2 10 Phelps, Ro\ O.O., ' m i, N. Y Pha, 2234 Phillips, Rov, .1 M, Plttsflcld, Mass... N. V. 1711 Pli ki ii Rei Cyrus Wentworth.N.H. Bos. 1888 Pier. ■ Ji Rei Geo., Lowell Bos, 3661 Pierce Jno.,M D.,Brooklyn Bkn. 8584 Pierce, L M . » Randolph, \ i Bos. :iln4 Pierce Ri v. Vi U., Blmv, I, 111 Pi ■ Pli . - i. Isaac, ii. nil.. i.i Hal Piei on, Rov. J., New Hudson, Mich., Det 184] Picrson, Rov. Jno, Milford, Michigan, Dot. 3005 Piereon S B Bal ivia N V..... Buf. 177.. Pinkerton, Roi B, P., Berlin, III Chi. 2544 l'iniv T. II . Teppnn, Ohio Pbg. 3728 PI ... Ephr B klyu iii.ii. 2182 PI .ii Ri v.J M Znnesville, Ohio Pbg 3788 I'l.iini. Prol .i C., 1 psilanti, Mich.... Dot. -277.'. Pluniloy, Rov. Cleveland Clo. 2514 Poerncr(2), Rov.Jno. B, Lebanon.Pa. Pha. 2068 Poinior(2), Gi o, H Ni work, X. .1 Pha. 2407 Points, M. a . Carlisle, Pa Phs Pollock, Honrj C, Philadelphia. . Pha. 2291 P.. ii... k, Rev. i: ii Cincinnati Pha, 287J Pollock, San I. Tnrontum, Pa Pbg 10i I Pollock, Rov. W.F, 1. 1... KI...VI..T. I'n. Pbg. 2675 P i M « ,, Boston Bus. 1807 !■. I- .i. H p Bingh unton, N. Y... Pha. 8937 I'. , i , Ri i liyi i, -., la i .. r . . Pb 36 I P ..ii. Rev, Geo » . I kport, N. Y. Iiuf. 2784 Poi i .II. I... II .<■ i lull. Mass Bos. "17:; Post, Rov.O. B., Ik, W. V I l... ::77s Pott, i Rei v K, B B i wick, Me.... Bos. 'J:;"7 Pottoi I lias "H" i College, Mich Ohl. 2548 Potter, '...I'..' 1. So r i ■ .i.l. Ohio Cin Potter, .in.'. 3., Newl !oroor,Mass. Roe. 8198 P r, Joshua, Nil.-. Mich Chi 3078 I' ... 'i i. M,Wj lilngton « n. 211 6 Pdwi II i » i: i 'i i Theol Bi m Pbg 1681 Pow. i. M. ■■. i: 3 C. mi. villa, Mil 1. . Cin. 171 1 Powers, Rev. II Sprin ;villc, Mass Pha, 1786 Powell, .1..- .. N i hue v u Bob. 2240 ri .ii i:. ■ I i Bi idford, Vt II..,. :; Pratl \ S., Washington Wn. ■_* i T 7 Pi hi ! i'i i D.J.,1 i. doni .. N. v.. Buf. 1771 Pratl i. o ii Ban oi Theol Bern..., Boa. 2918 Pratt, Jno. I B kl.vn... Pha. 3009 i'i in Roi .1. ii . Athens, Ohio Cin. 8402 I'i. ill Rov. I'. S., Dorset, VI..... I'I.;, 8 I 16 Pray, Jo M, Brooklyn Bkn. 402 i'i.' inn. -, M.D., Gnlwny.N.Y Pha 1596 Prlncol i Rov. learn . Brooklyn Bkn 28 14 I' Ii- i. J \ ii" i.. • Pa . I'I.-. 2674 Purkls, Rov.J. M..W. Caraptou, v II Bos. 2043 Pycroft, Thos. S., Boston Bos. 1808 Qui ■ | II. .i Geo , Marcus Hook, I'... I'll... '-'.ml Qnlmby, Prof. E. T., Dai nth Col, Bos. 2763 II ..I i" ii u, I... Walnul Hills, Ohio Cin, 1989 I; >. \. i;.. Winobago, 111 CM. 2541 Rainoy, Mi i.J I., Throe Rivors, Hi. I.. Chi. 2087 Rainey,Re> J.A.,ThreeRlvers, Mich. Chi. 2088 Rnltt, II"V II P., Win.. Hi, . Mini, CM. 1419 Ralston, W.W, Princeton Theol Som. Phe I I iO Ii. Ml. .1. II , Atkinson, Mo B. 8826 li.iin .I'll, Rov.S, I...N .hi. Mil.', Mi. 1. Del ■Hi" ii '.i'i. .!"■ I. N. V. B 165 i: in .1. rs, Re\ « ff.,\V.Charlton,N.1 Pha 8867 Rankin, Ri i .1 0., Bavington, I'.... i Rauks,Rev.Swanton,Ciiinberlnnd,Mc, Bos. n s 7.", Rans Rov. w. H,Troy Phn, 2468 ii.im'i, Kdwln, Brooklyn Bkn. 21 Ray, Rov. B. F, Hartford, Vt Boa, 2608 Eeamor, D. P., Cleveland I lo. 2667 Ri . on. i. ii' > .i ii M ij vllle, Ky... CUi, li Redlcs, (i. Albert, Philadelphia Pha 8166 H. .in. I.I, Rov. II. S, VT Hi, '1,1. N, V. Phn. 1788 Reding, 'I'I." . Philadelphia Pha 2 18 I ii- i I) .it . Jacob, M.n, Phllad'o Pha, 2260 ii i. d Ri i .1 C, Indianapolis In. I. 1948 Reed, Rev. .In... S, Philadelphia Pha, 'J'.!'.':'. Reed I.. C, Franklin Mills, Ohio Cle. 8142 R I, Win. A., M.n, Philadelphia Pha. 2214 Reid, J. M, Pittsburg I'I-. 1625 Roid, II.''. W. II.. W, Hi, in. i, VI I'I,., i' i: "in .,. li. i Henry, Ripon, Wis si. I. 8431 Reynolds, Chas 0, Hunter, N. V V Y. :s7n:i ii. ynolds, Rev. II. .1.. Ludlow, Ohio Pbg, 3781 li. M..1.I 2),Rev.J.F,Chottnul 11.11. Phn. 1684 Hli.nl,'-. .in" Brooklyn Bkn, 8881 Hi" I Rev. .1.(1., Pottsville, Pa I'I... 3452 li. " i:-! M M., li.... i, .Mil.'. \ v Phn, 1481 Hi. li. Rov. .i I' . M mpolis, Minn-, si. I'. 219] Richards, C, I!., Andover, Thi I s.in.. Mass Phn. 3164 Hi. hnrds(2). Prank, Balth ... Pha. 17s" Richardson, Rov. D. "'., Killing]?, Cl i- 84 13 Richardson. Wm., Hanover, N. II It..,, nil'. Richardson, W, Sterling, Mnss I'.."-. 2970 Hi. in IV. M, Hnrshaville, Pn Bh 16 14 Rldeout,* .1. .1.. Florence, Pn Pbg, ii', \„ Brooklyn Bkn 'J7II ■ p. W, Clappville, M . i '.".ii7 I;...' Rev. H. .1. K„ Washington, Pa Ph , 86 16 Ritchie, Rev. ii., Winona, in p o Rlttor(2), J, Rush, Philadelphia Pha. 2669 II. .i.i., K"i Mil, V in,, iiliio Cin. 1823 626 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Robbins, Rev. Frank L., Philadelphia. Pha. 14S3 Bobbins, Rev. I... Milo, 111 St. L. 3439 Robert, C, New York N. Y. 3701 Robert, Rev. J., Lockport, 111 Chi. 1455 Roberts, A. D., Syracuse, N. Y Pha. 2296 Roberts,Rev.Bellville,Roche6ter,N.Y. Pha. 3263 Roberts, Rev. J. F, Newton, Iowa St. L. 3751 Roberts, Rev. J. W„ Philadelphia Pha. 1477 Roberts, Rev. Robert, Acton, Ind In.]. 12915 Robei us, Rev. Thos. E., Xroy, X. II.... Bos. 2391 Roberts Rov. I). A.. Patriot, Iowa., ('in. 1758 Robertson, Rev. G. II., Troy Pha. 2045 Robertson, Rev. J. E., Monroe, Ohio.. Cin. 1953 Robertson, Rev. R. B., Cincinnati Pha. 3228 Robinson, Rev. J. II„ Delhi. N. Y Pha. 2948 Robinson. Rev. J. M., Cincinnati Cin. 1732 Robinson, Rev. R. S., Oskaloosa, Iowa. Chi Robinson, Rev. Tims. II.. Harrisburg. Ilbg. 3507 RobiUBon, Rev. Wesley, Newark N. Y. 1752 Robinson, Win.. Stiddletown, Ct Pha. 3084 Robinson, Rev.W. J, Wheatland, N.Y. Pha. 2636 Robinson, Rev. W. M., Greene, N. Y... Pha. 3269 Rockwell, F. M„ Chicago Chi. 2097 Rockwell, Rev. ,T. E., n.n., Brooklyn.. Pha. 1641 RoCkwood, Rev. J. M., New England Village. Mass B<.s. 3496 Rockwood, Rev. I.. I!., Boston Pha. 3709 Rodgers. Rev. E., Gincinnatus, NY... Pha. 2555 Rodgers, Homer, Sudbury, Mass Bos. 1762 Rodgers, Thos. L., Hoosick, N.Y Pha. 3091 Roc, Ri'v. Jno. P.. Troy Pha. 2359 Knod, II. J., Bmukncld, Vt Bos. 135S Root. O. S.. M.I)., Pittsfield, Mass Bos. 3882 Rose, Rev. R. S., Owego, N.Y Pha. 3363 Rounder, (has. A., Boston N. Y. 1731 Bounds. Chas. C, Cleveland Cle. 3150 Rugg. Carlos A., Porrysburg, N. Y Bnf. 3555 Rush, Rev. Z. 0, Athens, O Ciu. 1292 Russell. Rev. A. B„ Methnen.Me Bos. 1766 Russell, Rev. W. P., Memphis, Mich... Det. 3612 Rust. II. N . Springfield, Mass Pha. 2730 Sackott, E. C, Beardstown, III St. L. 3746 Safford, Rev. II. G., Amesbury, Mass.. Bos. 1698 Safford(2), Rev. jno., Bellevne, O Bal. 2S16 Salisbury, Rev. A. B., E. Otto, N. Y.... But. 3687 Salmon (2), Edw. P., Plymouth, Bal. 2S17 Salter, Rev. C. 0, Minneapolis. Minn. St. P. 1353 Sanimis, Hen. C, Brooklyn Bkn. 3326 Sample, Rev. S. L., Elizabeth, Pa Pbg. 2172 Sampson, Win. F„ Dover, Me Bos. 2699 Sanborn, Rev. A. J., Irasburg, "Vt Bos. 3195 Sanbome. Rev. (I.E., Mt. Vernon, N. II. Bos. 1670 Sanborne,Rev.P.F.,W.Bloomf'd,N.Y. But. 2782 Sanderson, Geo., S. Deerfleld, Mass.... Bos. 3881 Sanford, II. P., Medway, Muss Bos. 3194 Satchwell, Rev. II. P.. Monson, Mass.. Bos. 33S2 Sawtelle, Bov. E. N., Saratoga, N. V... Pha. 2226 Sawyer, Rev. H. E„ Concord, N. H.... Bos. 3107 Sawyer, Rev. Jno., Mexico, N. Y Wn. 859 Sawyer, Bev. W. C, Harvard, Mass.... Bos. Sawy.r. Bev. W. II.. Huntingdon. 0.. Pha. Sayo(2), Rev. .1. II.. Norwich, N. Y... N. Y. Sayler, S. Bt, Vicksburg St.L, Schaff(2), Rev. P.. n.i>.. New York Hal. Schilling, Rev. I. G., Clarksburg, Vie. Wn. Bchluembach, Lieut. Fred., Philad'a... Pha. Shock, Rev. J. F.. Decatur, III St. L. Schoinnaker, M. D.. Troy Pha. Scofield, Winsor, Penn Van, N. Y Pha. Scott, Rev. A., Savannah. Cin. Scovel, Rev. Ezra, New Haven, N. Y.. Pha. Scovel, Rev. S. P., Springfield, Cin. Searles. Mrs. D. 0., St. Louis St. L. 3758 Sedgwick, Rev.G.C, Martin's Perry, 6. Cin. 1310 Seelye, Rev. L. C, Springfield, Mass... Pha. Seelye. Rev. Prof., Amherst College.. Bob. Sefring, Rev. A., Mellenville, N. Y Pha. Seip, T. L., Penn'a College, Betrysb'g. Pha. Selhek, Rev. L., Pittstown, N. Y N. Y Severance, Rev. M. I... Boscawen,N.H. Bos. Severance, R. A., m.n., Bellevue, O.... Cle. Seymour, Jas. L., Utica Uta. Shadlow, Jno. C, Brooklyn Bkn. Shaffer, Dank, Baltimore Bal. Shannon. 0. .!.. Fairwatcr, Wis Det. Sharp, Rev. .1. M. ('., Palestine, Ind... Ind. Sharpe, Rev. E. C, Atwnter, Pa Pbg. Slants, Rev. D. W., Madison. N. Y Ota. Shaw. Rev. L. L.. Gardiner, Me Bos. Shaw. Wesley, Baltimore Bal. Shaw, Rev. W. V., Belle Centre, 0..... Cin. Shearer. Geo. L., Philadelphia Wn. Sheldon, Rev. L. II.. Westboro', Mass. Bos. Sheley(2X Alanson, Detroit Det. Shelling, Rev. Chas., Leroy, N.Y Pha. Sherrerd, Rev. J. II., dullsville. Pa... Pbg. Shier, Rev. Wm. II., Chelsea, Mich.... Pha. Shinier. All'., Baltimore Hal. Shimi. Rev. Geo. W., Philadelphia Pha. Shiun. Rev. Jno., Sinking Springs, O. Cin. Shobert, Levi, Easton, Pa Pha. Shore, Rev. Benj., Dryden, N. Y Pha. Shute. Ebenezer, Boston Bos. SigBby, Wm.. m. ic, Knox, N. Y Alb. SBvers,* Israel P., Lambertville, X. J. Pha. Silvers, w 'm. P., Lambertville, N. J... Pha. Simes, Snyder 15., Philadelphia Pha. Simons, Peter B., Philadelphia Pha. Simonson, Rev. Win. II., Brooklyn.... Bkn. Siinpkins, Rev. J. N., Alexander, N. Y. Buf. Simpson, Chas. M., Ithaca, N. Y I'ta. SUillmaii. Rev.W. J., TecuniSeh, Mich. Cin. Slack, Rev. Jno., Brooklyn Bkn. Slaight, W. C, Jersey City, N. J N. Y. Sloan (3), Rev. I. 0., Philadelphia Pha. Sloan, Samuel, Rochester Pha. Small (2), Rev. Edw, Mercer, Pa Pbg. Smedley, It. C, M.D., West Chester, Pa. Pha. 2568 2498 1400 1700 2M9 3840 1718 ".747 2332 2SOI1 3901 3366 3677 2726 2665 3090 1S58 . 1729 3375 3144 3117 3334 20S3 3416 1300 1626 3776 1440 2S07 1315 2157 2388 1842 2408 160S 2218 2808 2::29 1313 3132 2533 3807 2094 2721 222S 2792 2204 2757 27MI 3113 3405 3710 3942 1409 2319 1369 2S25 LTST OF DELEGATES. 1864. 627 .-.mi. \. Rot. Geo. W„ d.d., Philad'a... Pha. 2262 Bmith, Alfred, Brooklyn Bkn. 8181 Smith, Andrew, St. Catharine's, C. W. Buf. 8859 Smith, Andrew, Wegee, Pbg. 2680 Smith, A. J , Bangor Theol.Sem Bos. 2765 Smith, Rev. B., Mnncie,Ind Ind. 8790 Smith, Rev. C. W.. Connellsville, Pa... Pbg. 2849 Smith, Rev, I>.. Noblesville, Ind Ind. 37S9 Smith, Daniel B., Oborlin, Cle. 28*1 Smith il',. Elihu, Albany Alb. 2692 Smith, Rev. Elijah J., Vickeburg St. I.. 1264 Smith. !<:. Martin, Meredith, N. Y Pha. 8969 Smith, Rev. ti. A., Rutland, Wis Chi. 'Ji'>:; Smith. Rev. G. Mure, Rocky Hill. Ct. Pha. 1778 Smith, Geo. P., Philadelphia Pha. 2461 Smith, Rev. G. S., Wayne, Me Bos. 1761 Smith, Rev. 1!.. Dutchess Co., N. Y... N. Y. 1909 Smith. II. A.. Ki-kiliva, III Chi. 3065 Smith. 11. r . Boston Bos. 144:; Smith. .1. E, Sheffield, Mass Bos. 2705 Smith, Rev. .1. 1'., Franklin, Ind Ind. 1335 Smith, Rev. J. Hyatt, Philadelphia... Pha. 2205 Smith, Rev. .1. I.. Ontonagon, Mich... Pbg. 2188 Smith, .1. M.. Baltimore Bai. 2060 Smith, Hon. J. v. t'.. B.D., NowYork. N. Y. 172S Smith(2), Rev. J. W., ».», Fhilad'a... Pha. 1482 Smith, T. Jeffers Salem, N.J Pha. 2638 Smith, Win. A., Ticonderoga, N. Y Pha. 3372 Smock, Jacob, Acton, Ind Ind. 1348 Snow, P. H., Andover Theol. Sem., Ms. Bos. 3170 Snyder, CO, Evanston,IU Chi. 2014 Snyder, .Nm.. Lambertville, N. .1 Pha, 2229 Snyder, Rev. J. W., Java, N. Y Btif. 3561 Sower, Rev. J. L., Crown Point, Ind.. Ind. 1947 Spnrgrove, Rev. G. M., Texas, Pa Pbg. 1615 S) s(8), Rev. G. S., D.B., Dayton, O... Cin. 192" Spence, E. A.. Andover Theol. Bern.... Bos. 1782 Spencer, Rev. D., I't. Pleasant, Pa Pha. 2731 Si (2), Rev. Dwight, Brooklyn... N.I 2894 r, Rev. K. A. Perryvllle, Ct Pha 2023 Bpi n< i r, w. II.. Hamilton College Pha. 2878 Spit er, .1. 11.. New York Mills, X. Y... Pha. 3159 S( r. Iter, il. II.. Virnuintv'e, Mich.. Cle. ".474 ai . Miss Sarah A.. St. Lonis St. I.. 3757 Stalej 2), Rev. E.H., Valparaiso, Ind. Ind. 2573 Stnnbrough, Rev. K. M., Mauheim Centre, N. Y Bnf. 1710 Staples, Mark. Brooklyn Bkn. 2981 Starks, G. 1... «. "-. Cleveland ('in. 1960 Starks, Israel, Rockport, N. Y Pha. 2300 Starr, Rev. I.. IV. X. Clnrkston, N. Y.. Buf. 3560 starn-tt, Rev. .1. II.. Jefferson CO., Pa.. Pbg. 2s7<> Start, Jos. Brooklyn Bkn Stead (2), A. J., Williamsburg, N. Y... Bkn. 2126 Stearns, A., Ja ha Plain. Mass Bns. 2762 Stearns (8), J. N., Williamsburg, N.Y. Bkn. 2403 Stebbins, Henrj H., Brooklyn Bkn 2987 Steele, Rev. G. M, Fitchburg, Masa.... Bos. 3246 Steele, Rev. J. C, Allegheny, Pa Pbg. 1627 ste. 'ii. Win. S., w. Philadelphio Pha. 2290 Steffy, J. H . Cambridge City, Ind Ind. 8218 si, u.ii (8), Rev. Win.. Philadelphia. . Pha. 2342 Stevi ii-. C S . Cleveland I le 2831 Stevens, Rev. E, J., Holderness, N. II. Bos. 8377 Stevens, Henry M . Blue Hill, Me Bos. 8243 Stevens,Rev. Henry R., Guildhall, Vt. Bos. 3258 si,- vens, w. A.. Granville, Ohi fin. 1938 Stevenson, Jno. B., Philadelphio Pha. 8562 Stevenson, Rev. J. M.,».D.,Nev, fork. Pha. 3503 Stewart, Geo. II., Waterford, X. Y Pha. 23 13 Stinchfleld, Rev. II. II.. Racine, Wis... Clii. - I I Stiver, Rev. T. s . Harmer, Ohio Cin. 1955 Stockwell, A . m.d, Kl Paso, III Peo. 3773 Stockwell 2),Rev.G.S., Springflcld.Ms. Bos. 1461 Stoddnrd, Rev. II. M . Evanston, 111 .. Chi. 2102 Stoddart, Jno. A.. Philadelphia Pha. 26 I Storer, Judge Bellamy, Cincinnati Cin. 3905 Story, .Tos., Boston Bos. 1459 Stowe, Rev. G., Oakvilli . Mil h Det. :'.411 Stringer, W., Boston Wn. 247s Strong, Rev. .1. M.,Chicago Ind. 3795 Stront, Rev. L. I'. Portland B"s. 8644 Strutbors, Jno., Philadelphia Pha. 2580 Struthers, Wm., Philadelphia Pha. 2345 Stuart David, Liver] I, Eng Pha. 2.:41 Stuari (2), II.. Philadelphia Pha. Is. ,7 Stuai i. Rev. II. il.. Providence Pha. isnii Stuart, Jos. C, Manchester, Eng Pha. 2804 Stiibb... It.'v. 11. S.. K. Salisbury. Muss. Bus. 2978 Sturgis, Jr., Russell, Boston Bms. 1795 Sni eei, Wm. S., Bristol, Pa Pha. 2615 Snminy, O. D., Washington Wn. 2469 Small. Rev. E.. Mercer, V.i Pbg. 1x19 Sullen. Rev. Jos. s . Brighton, Mich... Det. ."412 Suydam, Rev. J. Howard, Philad'a.... Pha 2292 Svvaim. Rev. Jim. S.. Bloemfiebl. X. J. X. Y. 14"1 Svvaini, Rev. M. K.. Newark. X. J X. Y. 1717 Swaiin. Hev. S.B..1I.H.. Cambridge, Ms. Bos. 11 ' Swain, It. C. Brooklyn Bkn. 2121 Swan, A. M.. Washington Wn. 2153 Swanstrom, Jno. P., Brooklyn Bkn. 3457 Swartz(2), Rev. 0. w.. Marlboro', "... Pbg. 1818 - " ■ .' . uirv i;.. Brooklyn bkn 2986 Syonbcrger, Rev. J. A.. Nashville, 0. Cin 3898 T.n 2 . \ II . V I- in, X. II Bos. 2456 Taggart, Jno. J., Pittsburg Pb( ran. lb v T b. be,,, in,," Cle. 3277 Talcotl -'I. Jr.. Wm.. Jersey city Pha. 1500 Taplin, Rev. C. I' . Won est r, Vt lie- Tarbell. I'bas. 11., Mallhnr,,', X. II Pes. 3886 Tarbox, Rev. M. II.. Am, shiny Mass.. Bos. 3169 Tntlo, k. Rev. Jim., s. Adams, Mass... Bos. 2588 Taylor, Rev. Alfred, Brisb'l Pa Pha. 3268 Tayl ,i b r. B. F., New York X. Y. 171b Taylor, Charles, Brooklyn Bkn 127 Taylor, Rev E. D., Clnrldon, Ohio . .. Clo. 28 12 Taylor.E E., Wilmington, Del Phn 122 Taylor, Gi i, C, Brooklyn Bkn 2*01 62S ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Taylor (2), Rev. H. B., Evans, N. V ... Pbg. 1372 Taylor, Henry II., Albany Pha. 2690 Taylor, H. J., New Bedford, Mass Pha. 2422 Taylor, Rev. J. C, Sweden, X. Y N. Y. 1715 Taylor, J. Miner, Brooklyn Bkn. 2754 Taylor, Hey. .1. Rice, Tecumseh, Mich. Pha. 3524 Taylor, Key. ,1. \V„ MadisOD, In.l tin. 1739 Taylor. Key. 0. S., Simsbury, Ct Pha. 2028 Taylor, Rev.T. E. Petaluma, Cal N.Y. 2651 Taylor, Wm., Philadelphia Pha. 2434 Taylor. Hoy. \v. 8., Beaver, Pa Pbg. 2442 Taylor, Key. W. M., SB. Jackson, Pa. Pl.g. 1677 Team.-, Key. W., Covington, Ky Cin. 1937 T |(2), Key. David, Marengo, III Chi. 2099 Toiteworth, Key. W.P,Arkport, X. Y. Pha. 3227 Telford, Rev. — Pha. 3267 Temple, Rev. C. H., B. Templeton, Me. Boa. 3492 Ten Br ik(2). Prof. A.. Ann Arbor. Det. 1224 Tenney, Heniy M„ Yin. Ian. I. X. .1 Pha. 3221 Teuney,*Rcv.S.W.,Norridgewock,Me. Pha. 1972 Tony, Byron, Norwich, N. Y Pha. 3262 Terry, Key. !>.. m.j>., Rome, X. Y Pha. 2734 Tkacher, R. W., Albany Alb. 3386 Thatcher, Key. S. T.. Beverly, Mass... X. Y\ 1713 Thayer, Rev. C. C, Chicago Chi. 3311 Thayer, II. C, South Pari-, Me Bos. 3259 Thnyer, Key. P. lb. Garland, Me Bos. 3523 Thayer. Rev.W.W.,St. Jobnsbury, Vt. Bos. 3889 Thickston, Key. J. F.. Minnesota Chi. 2017 Thomas(2), Rev. A. G., Philadelphia.. Pha. 2f21 Thnmas, Rev. C. ¥.. Baltimore Bal. 2S11 Thomas, Chas. II.. New York Pha. 2233 'l'!i i- Rev. Jos. ''.. Chicago fin. 3400 Thomas, Ludlow, Brooklyn Bkn. 2400 Tl is, Rich. N., Philadelphia Pha. 2790 Thoinas. Kev. S. \V„ Philadelphia Pha. 2200 Thomas. Key. AY. V., Waynesfield, 0... Tin. 1320 Thompson, Alex S., Penna Wn. 2474 'l'b pson, Henry K,. Boston Pha. 2385 Thompson, Rev. Jnsiali, Clinton, Pa... Pbg. 167S Thompson, Key. J. C, Fitehville. O... Wn. 2471 Thompson, Key. J. J., Hamilton. 0... Cin. 1757 Thompson, Rev. .1. IV. d. d.. New York. Pha. 2026 Thompson (3), Rev. 0. ('.. Detroit. Hit. 1S43 Thompson. Jr., .1. ('.. Detroit Det. 2962 Thornton, Albert H., Niagara Co., N.Y. Buf. 1857 Throckston, Rev. T.T., Hastings, Min. St. P. 1354 Thurston, Ebenezer, Utica Uta. 2711 Thurston, K.y. I. R., New-bin ,\ pot t.Ms. Bos. 2151 Tibhetts. D. W., Brunswick, Me Bos. 2312 Tibbelts, Kev. Jno., Hamilton, Mass... Bos. 2659 Tiffany. Key. W. II., Charlton, X. Y... Pha. 3624 Tinker. Rev. Ezra. Dnn.be. X. Y Pha. 3111 Tinker. Rev. J. E., Willonghby, O Cle. 3278 Tis.lal.i2i. Key. W.L., Little Ealls.X.Y. Pha. 1479 Tobey(2\ E. S.. Boston Bos. 1451 Toles, Rev. R. G., Neyv York N. Y. 1712 Toihurst, Rev. Fred., Cleveland Cle. 2506 Tompkins (2), James, Galesburg, 111... Pco. 2949 Tompkins, Kev. Jno., M. melius. X.Y. Pha. 2S77 Torigh, Jr., Win., Knoxville, Tenn Cin. 3896 Torrenco(2), H. W, Rochester, Pa Pha. 2031 To, ivy. Ib, . II., i..i.„ liha.a. X. Y Pha. 1836 Ton, y 1 21, Herbert Grey, Brooklyn.... Wn. 2169 Torrey. Kev. 0„ McGraWville, X. Y... Pha. 3153 Tough, Wm., Troy Try. 2714 Tousey, Rev. Thos., Palmyra. N. Y Pha. 3033 Townsend.D. II.,Townsendville,N.Y. Pha. 3S52 Townsend, D. W., Parnassus. Pa Pbg. 1001 Townsend(2), Key (1. II.. Fairfax, Vt. Pha. 2430 Tozeu. Hiram, Newburyport, Ma-s Bos. 35 12 Tracy, Daniel, Brooklyn Bkn. 2133 Travel-. Key. Allen, Hillsdale, X. Y.... Pha. 2S44 Treat, A 0.. Boston Pha. 24J5 Tremain, S. F., M.D., Rone-. X. Y Pha. :;■:■: . Trimble. Key. W. .1.. Martinsburg, 0.. Tin. 1312 Trip].. Kev. K. II.. Hillsdale, Mich Cin. 3035 Trull, Charles, Brooklyn Wn. 2165 Trumbull, S. S., Washington Wn. 2147 Tucker, Rev. ii. E., Durham, Me Bos. 1719 Tucker, James J., Boston Bos. 3542 Tucker, Tl is B., Philadelphia Pha. 2802 Tucker, VV. J., Andover Theol. Sem... Bos. 1798 Turner, Rev. E. 1!.. Morris, ill Chi 3062 Turner, J- .!.. m.d., Levering, Ohio Cin. 367-5 Turner, Rev. W. C, Newburg, Cle. 2829 Tuttle, E. X.. Syracuse, X. Y Pha. 2295 Tnttle, Rev. .1. K„ Waterloo, N. Y Bnf. 3855 Tuttle, Ibv W. S.. Leroy, N. Y Pha. 2736 Tw ly, Kev. A. S., Albany Pha. 2349 Tybr. Henry, Amherst, Mass Bos. 3105 Tyng, Alex. II.. P.-oeia Peo. 1691 Tyson. Robert, Baltimore Bal. 2064 Ire, Rev. David M.. Argyle, X. Y Pha. 1733 Yan Allen 2 ,J.,Sackett'8 Haibor.X.Y. I'll:,. 267 I V:m Bewron, Edmund R., Brooklyn... Bkn. 290S Yan r.uieu. H., Chicago Chi. 2018 Yan Santvoord, Key. Staats, New Baltimore. N.Y Pha. 2592 Yan Wagenen, Wm. M., New Bruns- wick Theol. Sem., N. .1 Pha. 2259 Vincent, Rev. Marvin R., Troy N.Y'. 2331 Valentine, N., Mechanics Falls, Me... Bos. 3823 VoSSUurg, .In.... Albany Alb. 2691 Votey, Rev. Chas I., Phelps, N. Y Pha. 3518 Vrooman, Rev. .'.. Victory Mills, X. Y. Pha. 33H Vro an, .1. P.. Palmyra, N. X Pha. 3139 Wade(2), M. E., X. Hope, Pa Cin. 1754 Waddle, Rev. Benj., Kenton, Ohio Pl.g. 1672 Wait, Thos., Springfield, Ma-- Pha. 3134 vs ukoman, lb v. Joel, Almond, X. Y... Pha. 3972 Wak.in.iin2,. K., Port Deposit, M,l... Bal. 2070 Waleott, W. S.. New York Mills, X. Y. Pha. 2516 Walker, Aaron, Loyvell Bos. 3570 Walker, Rev. Chas. B., Liverpool, N.Y. N.Y. 3700 Walker, lion. E. C, ll.lia.il Det. 1844 Walker, H.'f., Portland Pha. 2740 Walker, Rev. Joshua, Tyrone, Pa Pha. 3223 LIST OF DELEGATES. -1864. i ;■_".> Walker, Rev. J, Q , Philadelphia Pha. 2939 Walkinshaw,Rev.J D.,Manoi Dale.Pa. Pbg. 2004 Wallace Rov.C.W., Manchester, N.H. Bos. 2456 Walter, Rev. R., Mnquon, III P 8768 Walters, Wilmer W., Philadelphia Pha 191 Ward, Rev. B. C, St. Charles', 111 Chi. 2550 Ward, Elton, Fredonlo N 1 Buf. 8126 Ward,* Fletcher, N. n Salem, N. 1 .... Pha. 3362 Ward, Geo. S., M.D., Newarl Pha. 2210 Ward, Rev. Jno C Frankfort, X. Y... Ph Ward, .Ins.. Pawtni kot, R. I Bos. S020 Ward, Rev. U. I... Nowark Pha. 2789 Warner, Rev. II.. Fairfax, VI Pha. 3522 Warner, Rev. P., Brimfield, 111 Peo. 3668 Warren, Rev. H. VI . Wcstfleld, Maes. Boa. 3617 Warreu, Kev. Israel P., Boston U"-. 2563 Warren, Thos. J. C, Brooklyn Bkn. 3832 Waters, Asa A St. I.. 1267 Watklns, n. J., Pouna.Col.,Gottysb'g. Pha. 1847 Watkins, Rev. W. F., Brooklyn X. V. 1403 Watrous, I: • . i P., Covington, Pa... Phs Watson, Rev. I. B., C :ord, X. II.... X. Y. 1494 Waugh Wm. B., Baltimore B»l. 2u74 Waysar,Qe< W.,Balti e Bal. 2076 Weaver, Rei I 1 . Memphis St, I, 1265 w, bstcr, Rev. .1.. Eagle Point, III i in. 173S Wood, Ri i Edwin Co av, ill. X. v.... X \, :;;,;;; Weeks, Ri i Jo , D Clarei i. N II. Bos. 2241 Wi li h. Rev. Hoses G., Hartford Har. 3621 Wellar, lugnst, Newco tie, Pa Pbg. 136S Wells, E. T., Delaware, Cin. 1913 Wells. Rev. M S., D i, \'. Y Pha. 8270 Wells, Rov.R.,D. ».. Fnlti Dsyille.N.Y. Alb. 2695 Wells(2), Rev. Sli p I SI Louis. ... Phs 1386 Welpslcy, M. I'. Oxford, " I'm. 1293 VI est, .hi... II . Brooklyn Pha. 1 1 07 WestcrvoltjRcv.W i: Burlington, lo Clii. 1422 H -i . iti H - V i- Wn. 2184 w tlako, Rev. fl B., Binghamton. Pha. 3109 Weston, Rei D., Worcester Bos. 2242 Weston.ltov.il G.,B.n Now York.. N. Y. 1493 Westwood, Rei . Hi urj I , BUicott's Mill-. M.I Bal 2073 Mil . 1. 1 Rev. II . Mill., oarre, Pa... Pha. 2432 Whilldin Hi s., Phil id ilphia Pha II Whitakei N. I . Hiddli town, CI . ... Ph i 308 i M nil . Rev. A., Granny, CI Hai - I Whitehill, .ii-.. St, Clair, Cin. 1917 « h .in.. I.. S . Vi hitiusvill. . m.i-- li..-. :::;;■- VYhiiin. W. n., Whitinsville, Maes Wn. 987 Whitney.Roi N i oil Si liei . Sle Bos. 3207 w inn... k. Prof. H ;■'.. Delaware, 0... Cin. 1H27 « i i B - l I- Pha. 2285 w lulu, y, li. mi M. N. ... Haven,! i.. Hi i 2743 Whittoubi i-i. R i .1 M.i. ii. In. I In. I 8793 x\ in 1 1 ii . Rev. i'.. D urn Mil' . Mi ... Bo . i Whittier, Edw. A.. Ncwlon, \. II . Phs 1898 w Inn. .. Rev. .i. B PI mi li vi Pa P I4J I K li l Edw. B., Clinton, V Y Pha, 299 i Widmer.Rei P., Jonesville, N. Y Pha. 3305 w ii. ox, I;, v. i .1 . Boston, X. Y Buf. 3123 Wil.l. Rev. E. I'.. Brookfield, Yi Bos. 3246 M ilder, Rev. Win., i liestor, Pa... ... Pho 2116 Wilkin. .1. s. m.i., Middleport, N. * lint 31 10 Willard, Rev. A. F., Brooklyn X. Y. 1407 Willey, \. F., Vii ksburg St. I.. 1.702 Williams,(2) Rev. E. K.,\\ liitiiisvV, Ms. Bos. 2561 Williams, K. M . New Haven, Ct Pha. 2742 Williams, E. M., Poughkoepsie, X Y.. N. Y. 3606 Williams, Rev. F. I '.. Kenuebunk, Me. Una. 3055 Williams,Geo N., Pa'lmyra, N. Y Huf. 3124 Williams, Geo. W., Washington Wn, 2476 Williams, Rev. H. G., Woodbury, N. J. Pha. 8722 Williams, Jno., Utica II. i. 2709 Willi s, .1. E . Charlotte, VI Bos. 2701 Williams, Rev.J.R.,Bl Ingdale.O. Pbg. mill Williams, W. G., Northampton, M- ... Pha 3210 W ill, i. ml, ii.i. Rev. Ik K. Verona, NY. Pha. 2532 w illiamson, Rev J ^...Tohnstown.N.I . Phu 8962 Williams Rev. McK .Greenfield, 0. Pha 2803 Willing, Rev. M. !■:.. Now York N. Y. lino w ilson, A. I... Princeton Tl I. Senl . Pho. 2048 Wilson, Rev. B. P., Huddonfield, N. J. Pha. 2847 Wilson, Rev. G. C., Winterporr, Me.... Bos. 3525 w Ilson, Henry II.. Princeton, X. .1 rim. 3964 w ilson, .inn., u. ii.. Albany Pha 2086 Wilson, Rev. R, w , Bl ingburg.O. Phs Winans, Geo. E, t., V. n., Canadu Wn, 2175 u i Nil li. I us, Brooklyn Bkn. 3581 \\ iuelow, I' H .. Andover Iheol. Sem, Bos. 3108 Ui-I, nl Rev S, E ,Tci inn- li. Mi. h Det 2999 Wohlgemuth, Rev. W., Savona, N. Y. Bui • i Wolff, Rev. B. I<\. Pittsburg X. Y. I 105 Wolff, Ri i n w .. Meyerstown, Pa... Bal. "117 " I. Rev. 1 . Meridon, X.I1 Bos. 3009 w I. Ri v. 1. .1.. Lanark, III Chi w i I'mnlc A.. Brooklyn Ilkn. 2137 w i Rev. .In,,.. Eddington, Pn .. Pha. 2J1S w 1, Rev. I. I... Burlington, VI Bo 32 i0 H .i .li.-. li. w [ndsor, CI Hor. 3 108 . i. Rev. E., Butler, Pa P 16 18 w Iniii, Rei i" - » . - l.li ii ... Ilkn, "I'll » Is, F. W.. Brooklyn Ilkn. . 198 ii i- Rev. Geo. C, Lysander, NY. Pha. 2249 i . ■ u Brooklyn Ilkn. 27.12 SVoodworth, A. S B ston Pho 2 154 Wol'di ii -li.-. 1., \ ,i, ii I'll, i J" in Wortinan, Rev. Denis, Philadelphia... Pha. 2635 I ii i. . II,,. "I. Sem.... li"-. 2912 » right, n.mi II.. Philadelphia Pha. 1699 w M.ki ,i. i:.. Andover, Theol. Sem.... It"- 1796 '.I . . - mil , Brooklyn Bkn. 2903 li right .-ill P , m, ;, Troj Pha ! Wn i,i R. i w in . Pottstown, r.i ... Pho I I I) Wyi I, -ii Ri r. .1 I'. I 1 mi ii l in I'- .. 2942 » i. ili II. i M 1 N.u Way, ii I'm 1918 \,,ii,.ii, i: C., - I- i»i. k, Me li-. -.ii',2 Voung(2), Robt. A., Coateeville, Pa... Pha. 3721 030 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Young, Rev. It. F., Iliiddonliold, N. .7.. Pha, 19711 Young, Stephen li., Brooklyn likn. 2405 Youug, Rev. Win., Findlay, O Cin. 1742 Zantainger, Alf, h.d, Philadelphia... Pha. 2026 Zeigler, E., Baltimore Bah 2062 Zimmerman, Rev. J., Floyd, N. Y Wn. 2473 COM M ISSIONKD IN 1866. Abbott, Rev. J. S. C, New Haven, Ct. Pha. 4737 Abbott, Mrs. J. S. C. New Haven, Ct. Pha. 4738 Adams, Rev. R., Port Republic, N. J.. Pha. 4143 Adams, Rev. S., Fort Howard, Wis Mil. 4720 Adams, Rev. Win., d. p., New York.... Pha. 4690 Adamson, W. A.. New York Pha. 4799 Aiken. Mips Lizzie Pen. 4338 Alabaster, Rev. J., Havana, N. Y Bnf. 4538 Albright, Rev. S. L., Toledo, Cin. 4411 Aldrich, Rev. Justus, Wales, Mass Ros. 4S95 Allen, Albert, Providence Pha. 4758 Allen (2), Rev. A. M„ Foreatville, Ct. Har. 4082 AII.-n.F. B., AndoverTliool.Sein., Ms. Roe. 4516 Allen. Rev. J. J., Depauville, N, Y.... TJt.i. 4376 Allen, Rev. J. R., Evanstou, III Chi. 4726 Allen, Sainl. F., Providence Pha. 47ns Allison, Rev. .T.. Buffalo Ituf. 4S10 Amnions, M. W., Monroe, Pha. 4927 Anderson,Rev.A.,N.W.Bridgwater,Ms. Bos. 4705 Anderson, Rev. S., Mi. Lebanon, Pa... Pbg. 4045 Andrews (2), Elijah, Houso tonic, Ms.. Har, 4300 Augier, Rev. M. B, Sturbridge, Ms... Bos. 4402 Armstrong, Rev. P. C., Boston Ros. 4029 Arnold, w. A., Philadelphia Pha. 4747 Ashworth, Jno. P.,Tineland, N. .1 Pha. 4217 Atkinson, Rev. G. H., Portland, Oreg. Pha. 5062 Allw 1, Warn-n. Willininntic. Ct Har. 3850 Atwater, W. 0.. Middletown, Ct Har. 4313 Austin, Henry R.. Monroe, Mieh Det. 42Su Austin, Rev. S. J., Oxford, Mass Bos. 4821 Axtell, S.J, Newton Theol. Bern Bos. 4106 Ayer, Rev. F. D, Milford, N. H Bos. 5056 Ayere, Miss M. D, Chicago Chi. 4118 Baclliles, Rev. Jno Peo. 3866 Bachue, Rev.Jas. w.. Lowell Bos. 48S7 Badgley, Rev. 0, Bowmansville, X. Y. lint. 4539 Bailey. Frank, Qorham, Me Ros. 4713 Bailey, I. P.. Auburn, N. Y Uta. 4002 Bailey, Rev. J. A., Schuylerville, Pa... Pbg. 4046 Raker. Rev. Jno. E., Greenwich, N. Y. Pha, 4596 Baker, Prof. J. R, Collamer, Pa Pha. 4043 Ball, Rev. F, Wheeling Pbg. 4650 Bancroft, Rev. Geo. C, Leicester, vt. Bos. 4881 Bangs (2), C. C, Clinton, N. Y Uta. 3781 Barber, Gaylord, Barkhampstead, Ct. Pha. 4042 Barclay, Rev. II. A., Davenport, Iowa. Chi. 4270 Barclay, Jas., Hoffman's Ferry. N. Y-. Pha. 4372 Barkdull, Rov. T. N., Perrysburg, O... Cin. 4415 Baker, Rev.A. J.. Somerset Mills, Me. Ros. 3S76 Barker(2), Thomas, Albany Alb. S3S5 Barnes, Rev. D. F., Attica, Ind Ind. 4473 Barnes, Rev. W. A., Baltimore Ral. 4980 Barrett. E.G., Newton Theol. Sem... Barrett, Jno. P., AndoverTheol.Sem. Baron, Rev. J. L., Woodstoek, Yt Barrows, Rev. Prof. E. P., D. D., Ando- ver Theol. Sem., Mass Bartels, Rev. Jno.. Camden Mills, III. Bartlett, E. N, Anderson, N. Y Bartlett, Rev! I,.. Morrisville, Yt Rartlett, Theodore, Northampton, Massachusetts Barton, Rev. Henry R., Brooklyn Pass, Rev. J. G., Brooklyn Basten, Wm. F, Hamilton, N. Y Bayne, w. II.. Salem, Ohio Beach, E. Darwin, Battle Creek, Mich. Beals, V. A.. Northampton, Mass Beam, Cyrus B., M. n.. Dover, N. H Beatty, C, Brooklyn Beatty, Rev. Robert, Rockford, 111.... Beaumont, J. G Beebee, Rev. A.G., Manitowoc, Wis... Belden, Rev. W. W.. W isocket,R.I. Benhani, Rev. W. R.. Auburn, N. Y'... Bennett, B. P., Lebanon, Ohio Benson, 0. II.. Chicago Bigelow, Geo. W., Framingham, Ma>s. Bigelow, Otis. Baldwinsville, N. Y' Biesell, Rev. C. H., Poquonnock, Ct... Blackburn, Rev. M. S-, Hammonds- ville, Ohio Blair, Rev. w. II . Centreville, Mich.. Blake. Rev. S. A.. W. Halifax, Yl Boardman, Rev. S. W„ Auburn. N. Y. Bogue, H. P. A'., New York Bolles, Rev. S Bonney, J. W.. Farmington, Me Booth. Wm. C, Brooklyn Bower, Rev. A., Wenona, III Bowler, Rev. S. L., Orono, Me.. Boyd, .1. F, Connellsville, Pa Boyd, Rev. R. B., Harrisville, l'a Brackett, N. C, Phillips, Me Bradley. Frank II.. New Haven. Ct... Bradley, Hiram, Hartwick, N. Y Bradley, Rev. Wm.. Webster, N. Y Brayton, J. McK., Westernville, N. Y. Breckbill, H. E., Boiling Springs, Pa.. Rriaiit. Rev. S., Ingersoll, N. Y Briggs, Rev. I. p.. Whittingham, Yt.. Brjgham, Rev. AH.. Kirkwood, N. X.. Bristol, Edw, Buflal Bionson,Rev.J.J.,D.li., Wasliiugon,Pa. Bos. 4171 Bos. 4172 Bos. 5039 Bos. 4513 Peo. 3591 Bkn 3835 Bos. 4247 Bos. 4494 N. Y 3951 Bkn 4066 Uta. 4377 Pha. 4433 Det. 3977 Ros. 4395 Wn. 47S7 Bkn. 4065 Chi. St. P . 2195 Mil. 4997 Bos. 5022 I!uf. 4212 Cin. 499S Pha. 3805 Bos. 4036 Uta. 4000 N. Y 4370 Pbg. 4053 Det. 3614 Bos. 4508 PI, a. 4689 Pha. 4579 St. P 2194 Bos. 4715 Bkn. 4435 Peo. 3770 Ros. 4100 Pbg. 3358 Pbg. 4057 Bos. 4697 Pba. 4360 Pha. 4600 Bnf. 4545 I la. 4372 Hbg. 4905 N. Y. 44S9 Bos. 4246 Pba. 4387 But 3991 Pbg. 4049 LIST OF DELEGATES. 1865. r,:;i Brooks, Rev. C. W, Necvah, Wis Mil. 4826 Brown, A.. Cleveland Clo. 3932 Brown, Charles, Shirley Centre, Ma... Bos. 4407 Brown (2), Rov. R., Oswego, 111 Chi. 4656 Brown, Rev. Sewall, E. Winthrop, Me. Bos. 4227 Brown, Rev. S. B., Herkii ■, N. Y Pha. 4796 liiown. Rev. Wm. S., Lisbon, Iowa... St. I.. 4119 Bryant, Rev. Geo. W., Lisbon, N. II... N. Y. 415'J Buchanan, Rev. W. H.,Elveraton, III. Peo. 3586 Buckles, Rev. I.. C, Rockville, tnd.... [nd. 447" Buddington.W.a, Id klyn Ilkn. 4808 Buell, Rev. Fredk., Sim Francisco N. Y. 4866 Bullard, Rev. Asa, Boston Bob. 42::s Bullard, Rev. Henry, Wayland, Mass. Bos. 4241 Bullfinch, Rev. J. J., Newcastle, Me-. Bos. 4^-js Bullock. Isaac, New York Wn. 47v.> Bunker. 4., Newton Theol. Sem Bos. 40S7 Burgees, II. II. Portland Pha. 4253 Burkle, Wm., Babylon, N. Y N. Y. 1669 Burnell, Mi- M. V... Milwaukee St. I.. 4186 limns Rev. .1. II.. Oxford, Ohio Cin. 4412 Burns, Rev. \v. 3., Lockington, 111,0... Cin. 40117 Burr. Rev. .1. 1., Gambler, Ohio Cin. 44111 Burton, (2) Frank I-:.. Boston Bos. 4103 Busline]]. Rev. I-:.. Fr out. Ohio Cle, ::o27 Butler, Chas. S., Boston Pha. 6088 Byington, 11 I>.. New York N. Y. 4683 Cain, Stephen, E. Weymouth, Muss... Bos. 4n2J Calhoun, Johnston, Hookstown, Pa... Pbg. 3359 Calking, I,. w.. Mason, Mich Det. 4190 Calkins, Rev. Wolcott, Philadelphia.. Pha. 485J Callie, Rev. .1., lielavan. Wis Mil. 4320 Campbell, A. M NY. 4s77 Campbell, Rev. D.R., St. Clairsville,0. Pbg. 4836 Campbell, R. E., Ann Arbor, Mich Bet. 41*7 Campbell, W. W.. Busti, N. Y But. 4211 Capen, Rev.Jno, S. » llbraham, Mass. Bos. 8880 Cnplin.llev.w.M , Eaton Rapids Mich. Det. 420.1 Cupwell, Franklin \v.. Linden, N. Y... Bui. 4208 Carpenter, Rev. Geo . Middleboro', Ms. Bos. 4892 Carpenter, Willard n . Yonkers, V Y. Pha. 4366 Carroll, George K . Brooklyn Ilkn. 1461 Carruthers, Rev.Jno., Cndlana CO., Pa. Pbg. 4059 Carver. Rev, .-.. Pitcher, N. Y Pha. 1862 Caswell, 1-:. v\ . [lion, N ^ rim. 4707 Chamberlain, A. B., Cincinnati Cin. 3910 Chamberlain, Chas. V7., Pray idonce... Pha. 47 tin CI lam I... 1 [.on .1.11.. S Tiaiuiii-liain.Ms. Bos. 4096 0bainberlayne,Rev.O.S., Portv'lo,N.T. Buf. 4642 Chandler, Rev. A.. Strafford, Vt Bos, 4601 Chapen, II B., Chicago Chi Chaplin, Homan w., Newton. Mass.. Bos. 4152 Chas,-. c. T., A rican Union Com'n. Wn. 47sn Chase, 1:. 8., Chester, Haas Bos. 4510 Ch. i.e. Rav. II. I.. N.Carver, Mass.... Bos, 47"7 Chase, .1. I).. Bi klyn Bkn, 4446 Chase, L. Q., London, N. II Bos. 41107 Chenoy, Rov. 0. B..D.D., Lewiston, Me. Bos. 4716 Christ, Rev. B-nj.. Millersville, Pa Pha, 4089 Church, Rev. P., n. n.. New York Pha, 4614 Chun UIII,J.R.,NewtonLowerFalls,Ms. Bos. 4027 Clapp, Herbert C, Cambridge, Mass.. Bos. 4153 Clark, Rev. Bishop li. VP, Cincinnati.. Cin 1004 Clark. Rev. Ira li., Northampton, Ms Bos. 6018 CIark(2), Rov. .las. 11 , Yar nth, Ms. Bo-. 1 195 CI. ,,l,, .In... M.llreen Oak, Mid Del. 3611 Clarke, J.M., Baltimore Bal. 4979 Clarke. Miss Kale. Chicago Chi. ;:o7s Clough, A. B., Dansville, Michigan.. . Det. 1200 Coi.,1111. li. P., Harrisburg Pha. 4962 Cochran, A. B-. im, stur.nis. Mich N. Y. 4s;,s Collin, Win..!.. Bi klyn Bkn. 44114 Co1I„iiim2i, II it, Albany lib. 3384 i'i.Ii M St. P. 2698 Coleman, Rev. Jas. » ., Darien, Cl ... Bkn. 40711 Coleman, Juo. .V. Providonce Pha. 17.":: Coleman, Rev. Thos. K.. linn, klyn Ilkn. 477a Coleman, Wm. r7., Providence I 'ha. 47. M Colton, II. Y.. Antwerp, N. Y I I... 3994 Cook, C, 1:. Inn Arbor, Mich Det. 3982 Cook. Rev. S., McCutcheonville, Cin. 4oI7 Cool, v. Rov. 11. II . Appleton, Wis Mil. 4719 Cooley, Rev. W. c Peo. 8872 Coper. Ret 11. C. Ce.larville. II Cin. 4414 Cooper, Henry. New York Pha. 4"i74 Cooper, Rov. J. II.. lief. Bros. The,,]. Sem., Philadelphia Pha. 4:;..s Copp, .1. M.. x. i>.. Portvillo, N. Y Bui. 4543 Corwin, C, C . Monmouth, 111 Peo. 3587 Coult, Rev. A. C, Marlboro", N. II Bos. 4033 Cowing, .las. 11., Brooklyn Pha. 4S01 Conies. B. S., Coventry, VI Bos. 4824 Cowley, Rev. 0. W., Henry, III P 4339 craft.. Rev.F. A , N. Bridgewater, Ms. Bos. 4698 Cragin, II. 11.. Chicago Chi. 4265 Craighead, Rev. .1. 1:.. New York N. Y 1856 Crane. Rev. A. R„ Hallow, 41. Me BOS, 4518 Crane, Rev. E. N., New York N. Y. 1869 Crane. R v. .1.. Mlddletown, N. Y N. "i 3 1 : Crane, li,-, T F., Rosevllle, N.J Wn. ITs., Cr Rev Wo,.. Harlem, N. Y Pha. 4695 Crumb, Rov. J.H Traverse City, Mich. Det. "■•■'■<". Cull, Bei Hex. Henry, Franklin, Vt. Pha 4428 Cummlngs, 1 ; . ■ > . s ,S ,\v Thompson.Ct. Har. lose. Curriden, Rev. D. D., Hngerstown, Md, Pha. 4o24 Ci.iio Rev. Lucius, Colchester, Ct Har. 4307 Culler. Rev. E., Conway, Ma-. Bos. 4520 Cyr, Rev. Narcisse, Philadelphia Pha 51 15 Dally, Rev. I'.. Goshen, Cin. 4417 Daley (2) Rev. Jas. A., Brooklyn Bkn. ill: Damon, Her. A., Hartwlck, VY Pha. 4601 Danforth,* Rev. A. II.. Ullestown, Pa, Pha 1871 lianiis, Francis Philadelphia Pha, 4741 Davies, Rov.E.L., Battle Creek, Mich. Det. 4196 Davis. 11 .1 .. ilea Ota. 3782 Davis .lies M . Portsmouth, N. 11 Bos, 10.7 I'm Rev. 'I'. 11.. Parknoyvllle, III ... Si. I. 3764 ii.iv» Jo M Hartford Hai l"S4 632 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Day. Rev. H. M., Upper Alton, 111 St. L. 4939 Dean. Benj. A.. Shrewsbury, Mass Pha. 4572 Dean, Hiram S., Milton, Ct Har. ::s4S Dean Rev. Nelson, Sandwich, 111 Chi. 3081 Deforest, Jr., M.,m.d., Middlebufy, Ct. liar. 3847 Delano, Rev. SamL, Stratford, Vt B..s. 4028 Demond, (5) Chas., Boston Bos. 3883 Dennis, I. S., Newark Pha. 4688 DeWitt, Rev. A., Hoosic Falls, N. Y... Pha. 4361 Diamond, W., New York Pliu. 4353 Dickeman, Rev. 0. A.. Seymour, Ct... liar. 4314 Dickerman, Rev. I... W.yi ith. Ms.. Bos. 4240 Dinsmore, Rev. A. A., Neevah. Wis... Mil. 4528 Dinsmoro, Rev. C. M., Newport, N. H. Bos. 5069 Dinsmore, Rev. J. V7., Prairie .. Burlington, Yt Bos. 4390 Fuller, Rev. O. P.. Centl'eville. R. I... Bus. 40..S Enlton, Rev. .1. P., New Derry, Pa Pbg. 46-12 Fulton, Rev. Win., Manaynnk, Pa N. Y. 4570 lull., i. Rev. D.L.,NewtonCentre, Mass. Bos. 4S85 Furber, Rev. Franklin, Greenfield, M-. Bos. 4899 Gage, Rev. I- I... s. Alal a. X. Y... Bnf. 3S60 Gale (2), Rev. Solomon, Tolland, Ct... liar. 4312 Gallagher, Rev. F. K., Hillsdale, Midi. Pha. 5056 Gamage, Rev. s. P.. Holtsville, N. Y . Cin. 5003 Gammell, Hon. A. M.. Providence N. Y. 4S44 Gardner, Rev.G. W.,Chiirlestown,Ms. Bos, 5014 Garrell,Rev.A.V.,CambridgeGIty,Ind. Ind. 3056 Gay. II. G., Newton Theol. Sem Bos. 4089 Gee, Rev. A. A.. Lafayette, Ind Cin. 4421 Qeer, Rev. Heman, Lindenville, Cle. 3473 Gibson, Rev. R. Chatfteld, Minn St. L. 4929 Giddings, S. M.. Brooklyn Bkn. 4430 Gill Rei .1. Plainli.l.l. Vt Bos. 4169 Gillam, W. II., Fort Smith, Ark St. L. 4125 Gillette, II. A., Valparaiso, Ind Chi Given, Rev. Jas., Burrell, Pa Pbg. ::::".7 Gladwin, Rev. A., New York vt n. -sol llleason, C. 11., Marlboro: N. II Bus. 4236 Glidden, Rev. K. B„ Enli.1,1. ct Har. 4665 Gliddon, Rev. N. !>.. Scoudas, Me I..... Det 3980 CI :ester, Rev. .1. M., Brooklyn Bkn. 4o71 Cu.lsliall, Rev. S., Guthrieville, Pa Pha. 4o44 LIST OF DELEGATES.' -1st;:,. 633 Col,], S. \V..M.n.. N. Cornwall, t't Har. 4683 G [win C.G., Nev, 1 ork Pha. 5058 Goodwin, Rev. E, P., Col bus.0 Pha. 4949 Gordon, Rev. II. J., Haverhill, Maes.. Ii>>.. 3 71 Gordon, Jos. C, M", Hi. "I Peo, 4:; -"> Gould, Phllotus, Leroy, Mich Bet. 3976 Graves, Rev, Horace, Dover, Me Bos. 4250 Graves, Boy. H.,Troy Pha. 1951 Graves, R«v. W. P., Washington, [11.. Poo. 4619 Greene, Rev. i. I. , Pultoney, N V... Bur. 3993 Grialey, 0. I... Buffalo vt n 384 I Qroevi nor, Rev.C. P., Canterbury, Ct. liar. 8846 Grumley, Rev, B. S., Columbus, Wis... Mil. 4549 Barney, Rev. J. II.. New Bralntree,Ma. Bos. 4400 Guelman, Ri i I. G., Pitts g Pug. JIM Gustin, Charles M., Windham, Me Bos. 4230 Qoylinger, R. [I., Sunbeam, 111 Peo. 8865 Hall, Rov. A. II.. Bucksport, Me It"-. 4897 Hall, Jae:, Jefferson, Me Bos. 4094 Hull. Rev. Jno. II.. Dansville, N. If..., Uta. 4591 nail, Jonathan, New York Pha. 4659 Hall, Rev J. B., Johnnonvillc, N.Y... Try. 2716 Hull. It, v Samuel H., d.d., New York. N Y. 415S Halliduy, Rev. II. M., Indovor, Mass Bos. 4834 Hall.v.s (I., New Market, V II Bos. 5019 H;i n. hi. T., Boston 1»'S. 4232 Hani.;., — . Ha N. Y Ul:>. 4585 Hard* abrook, Miss 17.. Ft. Leaven- » Kan St. I,. 4988 Hardy, J. Edward, I sville Cin. 4010 Horpending.O H.N. Bennington, Vt. N.Y. 4165 Harris, Charles, Peoria !' 4325 Harris, Ri i r... Kingston, Pa Pha. 4534 Harris, J. W., Hamilton, N. Y l"ta. 4592 Harris Rev. Goo J., Milton, Ct Har. 4:nn Hart, Rev. Burdi tl Philadelphia Phn. 4206 Hartor, Hem rL.,1 tii ■ I i ,. 4595 Haul, y, R, , l-.i [i - \ » Fork Pha. 4942 II .iii. ^ Rev. V - i.i- i. Ohio . I In. 4426 Hartup i. i Elyria. Ohio I in. I it M .I i, od. (loo. VI i ii Ii.-t. 4287 Haakell, Ri i 'I '. N. B Boston, SInss. Bos. 5016 Hastings, Ri t fhos S., New fork.... N. Y. 4487 Hathaway, J, « ., ' hk igo Chi. 4722 Hatton, .1"-. U Mi • o. i in. 4427 Havermale, 8. G . K ink ikoi City, ill Si I. 1128 Hawcs, Rov. Edw., Philadi Iphin Pha 408 i Hawkins, R, v. L, Palatine 111 Chi. 3079 Hei k, II. ii. ' liaritoo, town si. I. 4132 Heath, Ret M 51 Paul St. P. 2600 II. .,i.|..|...n. Rev. .1 It « n, ii ... Cin. 4006 Hi i n, fcev.J i I '.'I N. Y. 3954 Heydrlck, D M.. Brooklyn Bkn. 4m. 1 Hill. Rot Qeot • E . Saxonvillo,Maes. Bos. 4524 Hlll(3 , Jno. D., M ii . Buffalo Buf. 39 12 Hill, i Ri i. \.. German Valloy, N.J. Pha. I i98 Hills, Rov..!. W., ii. Troy, Pu Pha. 4429 Hill i i I'n i. Belvidcro, N.J Pha. 5087 Hitchcock, Rov. J. c, Ovid, N. Y Bui I . SO Hitchen, Rev. I Essex, Mil In'gan . St. I II.. iii... Rev. II. A, Chebanse, 111 Poo. 4013 Hodgkins, Daniel, New Market, N.H. Boa. 1021 Hodgt i, Rev. Thos. M., Sfork, N.Y. Pha Hoffman, R. A., Barlow, Ohio Wn. I7«8 Holbrook, F. W, Albany All,. 3386 Holcom.be, J. F., Jolrasonyllle, Ohio.., si I,. 1934 Holdridge, A. !>.. St. Albans, Vt Bos. 1219 Holloway, Rov. A. II.. Smith's Mills, Pennsylvania St. L. 37413 Homes, Rev. M. W., Kendala, N. Y... Pha. 4693 Hopkins, Rev. v. 1... WestBeld, N. Y.. Buf. 3989 Horton. Rev. A. A., Cherry Croek,N.Y.. Buf. 47,41 Hotchkiss, Arthur K . Providence Pha. 47>4 Hotchkiss, Rev. B., Tyre, N. Y Bof. 4213 Houghton, H. C, Jamaica Plain, Ma. Bos, 5035 Hovey, Harris W., Guilford, N. V Pha. 44.75 Hovey, Rev. Horace C, Flore , Ms. Bos. 4251 Howe, Rev. E, F., S. Canaan, t't Har. 4076 Howe, J. M, Lowell Bos. 408S ii, n. Rev. 10 J., Sylvanus, Mil I. ... Dot. 3607 Howland, Rev. II. 0., Girard, Pa Pha. 5064 Hoyt, Kov. Jamos. Orange, N. J Pha, 5030 II. .vt. Hon. J. 1!.. Stamford, CI N. Y. 417,0 Hubbard, 1. P., Westorly, R. I Pha. 4800 Hulbert, E. It.. Hamilton, N. Y Uta, 4380 Humphrey, Miss Hattie, Chicago Chi. 4266 Hunt. Rev. A S., Brooklyn Bkn. 4772 Hunt. S, I'.. Springdale, Ohio Cin. 4459 lliiniiJi, Jr., S M i hies o Chi. 4279 Hurd, Rev. Fayette, Union City, Mich. Cle. 3935 Hurd, Herman, Johnsonvillc, N. Y... Try. 2717 llurlinit. T. I... Gilead, Ind Cin. 4008 lluiiin. Rev. Chas, Brow Id, Me.. Bos I > 5 Hnrlin, Rov. \Vm.. China, Me Bos. 4500 Hutchings, Rev. R. G,Fit, huiirft Ms. Bos. 4709 Hutchinson, Rev. J. C, Townsend, Ms. Bos. ,i1 Hutton, w ,.,.. New York N. ^ . 1685 Hyde, Ri t B. P . 8 Covontry.CI Har. 4071 Ingalls, Miss Einina I. Chicaj i ' ii. 4262 [ngrahain, II. C. M.. Brooklyn Bkn Irish, M.,Gorham, Mo Bos. 4827 I,i>li. T. P., Garland, Mo Bos. 4897 [i vine, Rev. Robert, n. D., Philad'a Pha. 5080 Irwin,Rev.G W., Lacon, 111 Peo. 3588 Ives, Stephen, Bal ivUi N V Yi u. 3800 .la.k. Rev. II. 1,.. Niconza, Ind Cin. 1 9 Jackson, Jno C, Boston Bos. 1019 l: i-'i ink., Chicago Ind. 3788 i, I Ban it M ■ . Bos. 495B James, Win.. Brooklyn Bkn. mi a , i: i VI I. Kingston, N \ .. \ 1 1864 Jami ■!! Jafl , Groton C litre, n - . N. Y. 4486 Janes B i Biahop i: S., B.B., N. 1 Pha. 4141 Jaqnca, Rich, u . Brooklyn Bkn. 1763 Jenks, Ro\ ii. M . In ii i N l Bui ' i 16 i, -.I,, Rev. Saml., Danavllle, N. V. . Roi U 18 Jeaup, Mori Is K., Now York N.Y. 4 182 .1. wi n. I lio lini i i . n II Boe. 1521 634 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Johnson, Eli, Cincinnati Ciu. 3913 Johnson, Rev. W. C. Vermilion, N.Y. Bnf. 3802 Johnson(2),Rev.W.W.,Galesb'g,Mich. Clo. 3934 Johnston, Jno. T., New York N. Y. 4855 Junes, Rev. P. J., Kingston Centre, 0. Cin. 4408 Jones, liev. Dav. W St. L. 4166 Jones, Horatio GnteB, Philadelphia.... Pha, 4142 Jones, L. H.. Cincinnati Cin. 4424 Jones, Thos. R, Birmingham, Pa Pbg. 41S0 J s, W. B., Brooklyn Bkn. 4063 Jones, Rev. \Y., Iowa Falls, Iowa Pha. 4490 Jones, W. I)., Boston Bos. 4243 Joy, F. R Peo. 4345 Joy, Wellington, Brockton, N, Y Bnf. 3987 Junkin, liev. Geo., D.D., Philad'n Pha, 8973 Keeler. Rev. S. II.. T>.r>„ Calais. Me.... Bos. 4825 Ke.lv, Rev. Danl., Chvchlan, Pa Pha. 4139 Keiry, Win,, Laoon, III Peo. 8871 Kellogg, Km. A., B, Scott, N. Y Plia. 4365 Ken. lull. Rev. Ohas., Auburn, Mass... Bos. 3820 Kendall, Rev. J. v., Baldwinsv'e, N.Y. 1 la. 37S0 Kennedy, Rev. S. T., Blaireville, Pa... Pbg. 4S40 Kerr, Rev. S U, Harrisvllle, Pa Phg. 4056 Kessler, N., Westfleld, N. Y Bnf. 3986 Kessler, Rev. R., Pleasant Mount, Pa. Pha. 4533 Kelton.Rev. W. II., W. Waterv'e, Me. Bos. 4S88 Kimball, Miss Josephine, St. Louis St. I.. 4942 King (2). Rev. C. A.. Hath, Me Mil. 4552 King, Rev. G.M.P., E. Providence, K.I. Bob. 44nr, King, Harvey J., Troy Wn. 3S44 King, Tulliill, Chicago Pal. 3924 Kirkby(2), Francis G., Brooklyn Bkn. 3837 KirUi.y. Win.. Brooklyn Bkn. 3S36 Kitchel, C. I... Chicago Pha. 4687 Kii.4i.-I, Rev. II. P.. n. n., Chicago Chi. 4463 Kittre.lge, Rev. A. E., New York Pha. 4571 Kitti-.-.lge. Win. P., New York Pha. 4578 Klepper,Rev.J.\V.,SpringValley,Min. Chi. 4268 Kii.nvlton. S.. Worcester Bos. 3893 Knox, Rev. C. E., Montclair. N.J.... Pha. 4581 KoetZle, Rev. T. J.. Chicago Chi. 4117 Laird, Rev. .las. J, -well City. Ct liar. 1684 Lanmer(2), Jas., Brooklyn Bkn. 4446 Lansing, Rev. L. L., Maiden, 111 Chi. 410S Lathrop, R.-v. E„ I), n.. New York N. Y. 8948 Lathrop, Henry E., Providence Pha. 4752 Latimer, J. C, Cambridge, Mass Bos. 4031 Latsoo. Joel, Eaton Rapids, Mich Pet. *208 Lawreni e(3), Arthur, Boston Bos. 4244 Lawson, K.-v. .las., l'latt.-ville, Wis.... Mil. 4467 Lee, Rev. Alfrc.l.D.n.,Wilinington,Del. Pha. 4140 1 , Rev. (I D., Hillsdale, Mich N. Y. 4160 Lee, Rev. S. II., N. Hri.lg.-wat.-i-. Ms... ltos. 5015 Leever, Rev. H. W„ Newberry, O Cin. 4012 Leonard, Rev. A. P., Sardis, Pa Pbg. 4839 Lestrade, Rev, J. P., New York Pha. 4950 Lewis, C. P. v., Berkshire, Vt Bos. 4389 Lewis, K. E.. Au.lovei-Theol.Sein.. Ms. Bos. 4507 Libby, Rev. A., Path, Me Bos. 605S Libby, Gideon, Saco, Me Pha. 4355 LigUthody,Rev.T., N.Baltimore, Mich. Det. 4194 Lisle. \V. M., Newton Theol. Sem Bos. 4090 Little, Rev. L., Danbury, N. II Bos. 4512 Livermore, A;, Cambridge, Mass Bos. 4101 Loh.lell, Rev. Francis, Bridgeport, Ct. Hnr. 4303 Locke, W. Edwin. New York N. \'. 4684 Locke, W. II.. Sewickley, Pa Phg. 48S8 Lockhart, W. E., Hamilton, N. Y Ufa. 3998 Lnngley, J. CI., S. DooruYhl, Mass Bos. 3S91 Longley, Rev. M. M., Washington, Ms. Bos. 4394 Loomis. Key. Hen., Manchester, Ct.... liar. 4301 Loriiner, Rev. J. G., Derby, Vt Bos. 5047 Lorimer. Rev Wm.. Antrim, Cin. 4014 Lounsbcrry.Rev.TI,.Cohl Spring; N.Y. N. Y. 4155 Low i2i. R.il.t., Brodhead, Wis rha. 4040 Love, Rev. Wm. DeLoss, Milwaukee... Pha. 4315 Lowe, Key. Geo. W., Uniulillii, Mich.. Pet. Ik: Lowrie, Rev. N. S., Conneautville, Pa. Phg. 4648 Loyd, Geo. 11., Brooklyn Bkn. 4060 Lyon, Rev. C. W., New York Pha. 4743 Macartyj And. J., Philadelphia Pha. 4548 Malcom, Rev. C. II., Newport, R. I.... Bos. 5070 Mandell, Rev.Wm.A.Xunenburg, Ms. Bos. 4173 Mann, Charles IL, Boston Bos. 4891 March. Rev. .1. C. New Concord, Cin. 4013 Marden, (2) Rev. Geo. N.. Bangor, Me. Bos. 4108 Mailay. Rev. J.F., Pleasant Hill. Iowa. St. L. 3914 Marsh, C. A. J., N.Craftshury, Vt Bos. 4102 Marshall, Rev. L. M., Dayton, Pa Phg. 3742 Martin, Rev. H. C., Sycamore, 111 Chi. 4113 Martin, Rev. II. L., Sycamore. Ill Chi. 4114 Martin,*Rev.H.W., Concord, N.H... Bos. 4712 Martin(21. James A.. Brooklyn Bkn. 4064 Martin, Key. J. W., Sandwich, 111 Chi. 4112 Martin, Rev. N. II.. Milllrary, Mass... Bos. 4242 Mason, Rev. J. W., Waynosvillo, 0.... Cin. 5007 Mason, S. A., Marlboro', N. II Pha. 4996 Mather, Rev. S. P., Shullshuig. Wis... Mil. 4550 Matthews, Rev. J., Monmouth, III Peo. 4328 Matthews (2), Rev. R.C.. Victoria, III. Peo. 3594 Matti. . . Rev. II., Keokuk, Iowa St. L. 4941 Mayer, II. C, Brookline, Mass Bos. 4038 McCftbe(2), Rev. C. C, Chicago Cin. 4147 McCauley, Clay, Chicago Chi. 4263 McClaiii.Rcv.J.F.,Dillslinrough.Iml. Ind. 446S McClannahiui, Rev. W.S., Monmouth. Peo. 3586 McClary. Rev. T. M St. P. 2602 McC.iin.41. S. P.. N. Alexandria, Pa... Pl.g. 4643 McCormick, Alex.. Memphis St. L. 4932 McCully. Rev. C. G., Milltown, Me Bos. 4S96 Mcllhe... Thus. B„ Brooklyn Bkn. 4S03 McHenry, Jno. A., Wabash, Ind Phg. 4177 Mcllvainc.Geo. H„Peoria Peo. 3772 McKay, W„ Millbnry, Mass Bkn. 4073 McKennan, — , m.b., Washington, Pa. Phg. 4641 McKinstry, Willard. Fredonia, N. Y... Bnf. 3984 McLanc, K.-v.C.I- , ..M.-chaiiicsv'r, I. ova. Chi McLaren, Rev. W. E., Peoria Pha. 4140 LIST OF DELEGATES. 1SC5. 635 McLaulin. Jno. D., Oljerlin, O Cle. 3928 M. Laurey.J. K.. Delhi, N. Y Ut». 1878 McLean, Rev. C. T., Mechanicsv'e, to. CW. UZO Mi (Lean, Rev. .1. K.. Frauiiiighutii, Ms. 15ms. 4084 HcLeod.Rev.U, Brentwood, N. 11... Pha 98 McMillan, And. T.. Providence Pha. 4782 Mechlin, Rev. 0. W, Dayton, Pa Pbg. 3748 M h. Rev. W. W., Louisville St. L. 1948 Meharry, Rev. A . Wilmington, Cin. 4569 Mentz, Henry, M.», Brooklyn Ukn. 4144 Meredith, John It., Omaha City, Nebraska Pta- 4694 Merrill, Rev. A. II., Batb, Me H<>». 4893 Merrill, Rev. J. II.. Andover, Mass.... Bos. 4826 Merrimau,Rev.T.M.,Bever)y Farm, Ms. Bos. '."(J Merritt, Reuben D, Wilson, N. Y Bnf. 8985 Merwin, A. M, Brooklyn Bkn. 4704 Miles, Rei \. » . Corning, N. Y Hut'. 4210 Millard, Rev. Nelson,Montclair, N.J. Pha. 4680 Miller, Frederick, Providence Pha. 4788 Miller, II. Thane, Cincinnati Cin. 3912 Miller, Rei \1 O, Pleasant Hill, Iowa. St. L. 37G0 Miller, Rev. H., W. Newton, Pa Pbg. 4640 Miller, Rev. W.Q., Milwaukee Mil. 4:;is Miller, W. W., m.d., Birmingham, Pa. Pbg. 4639 Mill,, Isaac D, I., i. iy, Mich Det. 3978 Mills. Rev. W. II.. Brooklyn Bkn. 4774 Milne, Caleb. J., Philadelphia Pha. 4491 Mitchell, C.J, Clinton, N. Y Ota. 4586 Mil. lull, Rev. — ^Logansport,Ind Cin. 4409 Mitchell, — , Hamilton, N. Y Ota. 4589 Muiitugui-. Hr\ .K..J.,Oruii.iiiiiiu'iic,Vvis. Mil. 4310 Montolius, " P., Mifflinburg, Pa Pbg. 3355 Moody, 1>. I,.. Chicago Chi. 4256 Moody, Mi- I'. I.., Chicag Clii. 4257 Moore, Geo. W., Leroy, Michigan Det. 8641 M Rev. J. II.. Ottawa, in Peo. 4327 M Rev. Win. E, Philadelphia Pha, 4741 Mi.i. in. L| _' , Augustus, Brooklyn Bkn. 44.".:: More, Jr.. David 1'.. Brooklyn Bkn. 4069 Mi an, .'us. i... Brooklyn Bkn. 4419 Morgan, Rev. 1. .3., Hot nellsville, x.Y. Pha. 44.',s Morgan, Tbos. W., Albanj All.. :;::s7 Morley, Jno. 11.. AndoverTheol. Sem. Bos. 4502 Mi. 1 1..\ [2 Rev. S. I: . Andover, Muss. Bos. 4522 Morrison, Rev. J.W, Lake Forest, 111. rim. 4s7'.i Morse, Rev. B. S., S. Wilbraham, Ms.. Bos. 47ns Moss, Roswell, R., Elmira, N. Y Pha. 4:;7» M.mlti.ii. Rev. A. K.. Auburn, Mi' Bos. 4952 Murpby, Miss Hattio, Chicago Chi Myers, Rev. W. II.. Brooklyn Bkn. 3S34 Nadal, Rev. B. II.. o.n., Washington., Wn. 4798 Nosh, Rev. J. H., Sunbeam, HI Peo. 4:;29 Naylor, A. R., Chester, III St. I,. 4119 N.I-.iii. t'h.i-. r.Mill. ul. Muss Bos. 4892 si m Rev. W. R, Cincinnati Cin. 6004 Nawton, B. is.. Brooklyn Bkn. 4487 Nowton, Win., u. i. .. Oxford, Mass Bos. (822 Nlemoyer, Rev. I. H., Norriatown, Pa Pha, 4624 Noble (2), ('., Wilbraham, Muss Bos. 4093 Noblo, Rev. T. K, Winthrop, Me Bos. 42 4 Norcross, Rev. Flavins v.. Onion,Me.. Wn. ::su2 Ni.it. ui. Rev. .1. D., Cleveland N. Y. 3930 Norwood, Rov. F., Phippsburg, Me B<>s. 5048 Niitiiu^. E. G, Florence, Mass Bos. 421* Oakely, C. P., Brooklyn Bkn. 4809 Ogden, \\ lllis I... Ii klyn Bkn. 4mi2 Orange, Mrs. D. E., Grayville, 111 St. I,. 4987 Orange, Rev. s. J., Grayville, 111 St. 1,. 4986 Osborne, Rev. W. M., Manst Wis... Mil. 4465 Osterhout, Jno. V., Hamilton, N.Y.... Ota. 4".s4 Oviatt, Geo. A., Somers, CI Bar. 4078 Ovlatt, Rev. G. I'. Finley, "lii.. I'm. 4422 Owen, Rov. Th. nuns, Leroy, Mil hjgan. Det. 3975 Paddock, II. C, Batavia, 111 Chi. 4111 Paddoi k, Rev. Jno. A., Brooklyn Bkn. 4776 Page, c. n.. Groveland, Muss Bos. 4530 Page, I'. I.. Pittafleld, Ma N". Y. 4102 Palmer, Chas. M.. Brimfield, Muss Bos. 4890 Pa1mer(2),Rm C.W,Cambridge,N.Y. Pha. 4.".s2 Palmer, Gersliom II., Bath, Me Bos. 4091 Palmer, Rev. A. D. F., N. Ansou, Me.. Bos. 4829 Park, A. Jackson, New Y'ork Pha. 4573 Parker, Rev. II.. Leominster, Muss Bos. 388S Parker, II. I'.. Reading, Mass Bos. 4511 Parker, Jas. 0., Charlestown, Mass.... v<^. 1082 Par lee,Rev.\l ,B,Westernv'le,N.Y. Ota. 4373 Parson, W. Ed., Gettysburg, Pa Pba. 4637 Parsons, Rev. Benjamin, Windsor, Ct. Har. 4662 Patrick, Rev. II.. I. .w. Newton.Mass. Bqs. 3884 Pattengill, Rev. L.C, Wilson, N.Y... Hut'. 3988 Patterson, Rev. Robert, d.d., Chicago. I' 3770 Patterson, W., I' ia Peo. 3593 Peabody, J. E., Bond du Lac, Wis Mil. 4027 Pearce, Rev. Jno., Brooklyn Bkn. 4868 Pearne, Rev, Thos. II.. Portland,0ceg. Pha. 4u4l Pi ase, « in. II.. Hamilton, N. Y Ota. 4587 Pear, Wm, Cold Spring, v Y X. Y. 44*4 Peffers, Rev. A. II.. Epsom, N. II Bos. 4517 Pnin... Chas, Philadelphia Pha. 6096 Perkins, Rev. A. K. P., Ware, Muss.... 11ns. 44u4 Perry, Rev. Jno. B., Swanton, Vt Bos. 4401 Phelps, W. A., Middletown Mass Bos. 3645 I'hi.iiu i, Ri-v. Wils Sing Sing, N.Y. Pha. 4546 Pierson, Rev. II. w.. D.n., Toledo, O... Pha. 4ojs I'll..- Rev. J., Sanbornton Bridge, N.H. Boa 4020 Pilcher, Rev. J. N, Jackson C. H,C. Cin. 4419 Piatt, Rev. Joe., Monmouth, 111 Peo. 4344 Piatt, Rev. W., Otica, Mioh In. 3979 Plumb, Ml-. Sarah M., Ypsihmti. Mull. Det. 4196 Pond, Hon. Joseph A.. Boston Bos. 6090 Pond.MosesVl .Boston Bos. 5089 Porter, Rev, Jeremiah, Chicago Chi. 4557 Porter, Mrs. Jeremiah, Ohicago Chi. 4724 Porter, Marj II.. Janetrrille, Wis Pi. I., 8762 Porteus, Rev. Wm, Frank Hill. Minn. St. L. 4137 Rev. \. II . Pern, III Chi. 1267 I', ii. i .-..;,, 1 1 . I B, N. « Y.uk X. Y. 4867 (,:,('. ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Potter, Rev. Win.. Lawrenceville, Pa.. Pha, I860 Potter, It.v. Wm.. Olean, N. Y N. Y. 4*45 Pressley, J. N., Grandview, Iowa si L. 413] Preston, Rov. Geo. M., Medford, Mass. Boa, 4960 Prettyman, Rev. \\ '.. Athena, Ohio CIn. 4423 Price, Rev. I, La Prairie Centre, 111.. Peo. 3864 Price, Oscar, Adrian, Mich Det. 4lss Primey, Laura M. Elyrio, Ohio St I.. 4930 Purinton, Rot. a. W, Woolwich, Mo. Boa. 5059 Porinti I., Kendall's Mills, Me Bos. 4289 1'vk... It.v. Chas., M rd, N. II Bos. 5071 Rafenyder, E., Philadelphia Pha. 474S Randall, Rot. A, D.D., Columbus, 0... Pha. 4973 Randall, .In... D., Black River, N. Y... lta. 3909 Randolph, .1. S., Faribault, Mini Ohi. 4261 Rankin, Rev. J. (i.. Warsaw, 111 St. L. avtij Redl J'.Kn. C.W.Mat, iiillo. Mo. Itos. 4107 Reed, Rev. N. C, Cambridgeport, Ms. llos. 6078 Reynolds, Rev. A.. Hancock, N. Y Pha. 4535 Reynolds, As;, i:„ Hamilton, N. Y it... 4379 Reynolds, B. S, Oneida, X. Y Uta. 8997 i: in .M-rJi. Wm.. Peoria P 3769 Rhodes (2), Jno., Brooklyn ltkn. 4062 Rhodi -. Jno. C . Brooklyn Bkn. 4tln Richardson It. v.s u.. M.iii. li, st.i. Mo. Itos. 42"..". Rightor(2), Chas. A.. Brooklyn ltkn. 1438 Ritchie, Rev. II.. Wenona, 111 Poo. 8690 Roach, Rev. J. P, Dos Moines, town, Chi, 8080 It, .1,1. ins. Rev. .1. c . Waukesha, M is... Mil. 4319 Roberts, Rev. A. .1.. Jacksonville, Yt.. Bos. 4606 Roberts, Ret I-'. It.. Waterboro', Me.. Bos. 4499 Robie, It.v. Benjamin A., Bangor, Me. Bos 1967 Robie, Rev. T. s. w. Falmouth, Me... Bos. 6068 II, .Inn-. hi V . V inlHii. Iowa SI. I.. 41J7 Robinson, Thos., Worcester Boa. 4098 Rodman 2), Rev. W,W. Farms V \ \ 1 18 10 Roof, Clarence M, Cooperstown, N A V Y. 4lii4 It. I.. in -y. S. B., Now York Pha. 1798 Root, Rev. Jos. P, Providence Pha. isii Rose,. F, H.D, W. Philadelphia.. Pha. 4746 Ross, Rev. A. H., ttoylston Centre, Ms Bos Ituss. lt.-\. Jas. II.. Northfleld, lii.l In.l 8792 Ross, .1. S, Mt. Pleasant, lown St. I.. 4133 Ru ;, Carlos A., Berrysburg, N. 1 Buf. 4207 Rnuisey, I i. Controville, N. Y Buf. 3689 Kin... .1. F, Waterbury, Ct Pha. 5086 Russoll(2), rsaac, Louisville CIn. 1009 i:. II, Rov. J. I., Stone Church, Pa.. Pha. 1660 S.iiiniris, Rev. Robt., Brewster, Mass.. Itos 1711 Sanborn, A. J., stow,-. Yt Boa. 1968 Sanborn, Rev.B.T.,Columbl» Kails. M... It,.s. 4398 Sanborn, Rev. J. P., Fremont, N. II.... Bos. 4399 Sanderson, Rev. 1;., E. M llton, Me ... Bos. 5042 Sanford, Drury S., Brooklyn Bkn. 4762 Sanson, J, K.. Hodman's Ferry, V Y . Pha 181 9 Sanson.'!' J., Hoffman's Ferry, X. Y.. Pha. 1868 Sawdon, Rov. Wm., Aurora, 1ml I ml. 4469 S i« ri .. D. W ., Boothliay, Me Bos. 1026 s li, a .in . VI as jton, Pa Bal. 8919 Scanlan, Thos., Colla \ Pa Pha, 4984 Schnitzlor, Rev. I., Lawrence, Wis Mil. 4992 Schultz, Rev. J. A.. Fairview TO, Pa. Pha, 4746 Scobey.W. E, M.D, Hamilton, On. 44:20 s ield, Rev. S. R, Lisle, N. Y PI. a. 44:il Scott, G. K, Virginia, III St. L. 4126 S,-ott,tl.W. It.. (.ndoverTl I Sem.. Boa. 4496 Scovill, Rev. 8, Norwich, V V rta. 3118 Scudder, Rev. II. M, D.S., Jersey City. N. Y. 4384 Sedgwick, J. H, Newton Tl 1. Sem. Bos. 4104 S.I. 1, Rov. A. 1!.. Now York N. Y. 1688 Seiler, 1.. I... Bit field, N. .1 Pha. 4699 Spllick (21. It.v. I,.. I'itlstown, N. Y... Try. 2715 Sargent, Rev. A.. Holdernoss, N, II. Bos. 4954 Seymour, Thos. D, Hartford Har. 4H79 Shattuck, Chas. I'., Pepperell, Mass... it,,s. 4022 Shaw, Rov. E. 11., Middloport, ('in. 5002 Shaw, Rev. .1. 1! Hot. 4204 Shearer, O. L, Philadelphia Pha. 47:;y Sheppard, Jos. B, Philadelphia Pha. 4749 si, .anil, Henry J, Hamilton, N. Y... Uta. 4588 Sherwood, J. C, Attica, Iowa St.L. 4128 Sliinn. Rev, Goo. «.. Philadelphia Pha. 4926 SI, inn. .1. w.. st, I is St. 1.. in i Sbrivor(2), Rev. .1. W, Sonora, ('in. 4401 Silver, Chas. A.. Brooklyn Bkn. 4452 Sim. .us, Peter It.. Philadelphia Pha. 6092 Skinner, B. L, Battle Creek, Mich ... Dot, 4197 Slack, Rev. Jno, Brooklyn Bkn. :;s;;s small. Rev. .1. S, Enosburg, Yt Bos. 4ss2 Smart. .In.... Philadelphia 1,'hn. 4668 Smedloy,R.C, M.D,Wesl Chester, l'a. Pha. 4751 Smith, An-, w, Princeton, iml 1ml. 4474 Smith. It. F, Binghamton, N. Y Pha, 1364 Smith, Geo. M„ Lancaster, X. II lt,.s. 6081 Smith, Rov. .I.ss... Noodport, Minn St. 1'. 2603 Smith, ll,,ii.. I. V.C, M.o.. Now York. N. V. 4S40 si... ih. Rov. M Henry, JofTorson, III Chi. 4107 Smith, Rov. Perkins, Biddoford, Mo . Bos 4498 Smith, Rev. « in \ . Mi Morris, III... Chi. 4121 SnolI(2), E, Evans' Mills, N \ Pha. 44::.i Snow. F. II.. Andover Thool. Som ,Ms. Itos. 4514 Sonthworih. Edw, Auburn, N. Y Pha. 4985 Spangler. Rov. M, Perryvillo, l'a Pbg. 4s-u S|„., E. A, Andover Thool. Som... Bos. 4229 Spilman, Rov. 'I'. E., Jacksonville, 111 ("hi. 4109 Spoon,. r, J. W, Cnmbridgo, Mass lt,,s. 4112.*. Spragui N, Sheboygan Falls, Wis..... Pha. 3806 Stearns, Harrison W., Providence Pha, 47-V, SI. .111-, .1, V. It l.K 11 ltkn. 1007 stoiihins. it,.\ M.C,Gr nJunc, Ms. It.... 5057 Steele Jno, Boston l",s. 417D Steele, Rov. I.. B., Johnson, Yt Bos. I28S Steinraan, C. 1... Middlotowo.O Cm. 4999 Stevons, Jr., B, Newark Talli \, \. Y. Pha. .',051 Stevens, Rev. B.O, Newton Cantre,Ms. Bos. 4ss;t 51 1 Rov. G. I. . Fort Wayne, I...1. PI ■- 4051 Stevens, Rev. J. S, Winterport, Me... Bos. 423] Stevenson, Rov. I, Mon nth, 111.... Peo. 3589 LIST OF DELEGATES. — L865. ,;:;? m. enson, Rov. T., Birmingham, Pn.. Pbg. 1178 Stowiti i. lto\ \. M . Philadelphia Phu. 4220 Stii I., iv .1 N., Roi kvllle, Ct [Iar. 4077 Stinsou, Rev.Geo. W., Windsor, Mnsft- Bos. 4504 Stirling, Din . Baton Rnplds, Uich Dot. 4202 St. John Geo., II klyn Bkn. -1707 Stoi Itton, Rov. J. P., W.l nity, Cln. 411n m i ii. i Jim P i oi I, Mich Dot. 41 -^ Stoi t*er(2), Prof M, I... ph. 0., Gettya- i hi Pa I'll. i. 3922 Si iry, Jo( Roston Bos. i S ! Sti itton.C. C, Pi Vi is..s. 4956 Stroug, Rot. J. M, Chicago Phn Stryk, i. Ret I mi P., B kiyn Bkn. 1807 Mill,-,, M M mi, in, i. ill. Mo St. 1.. 4124 Stuart, Rov. D. M, Dansvlllo, N. Y.... Buf. 4-J14 Sllll - in l: i: \i'» iiorl N. Y. 1681 .-nil,. ii.hmI. i; i S Mllo Centre, N.Y. Buf. 4215 v. mi: Ri i. Jno. S Newark ft. Y. 4 1 .".7 Swanston, Jno. P., B klyn Bkn. 406S Swartwout, H hi II , Nov, Ifork Pha. 5091 Sii.,i i.' Ri i Jo, I Bal re Bal. 8917 mi.- S I)., Buffalo llul'. 3990 Tnde,llev. i: 0., Washington, Iowa... Chi. 411i; Toft, Prol S \ I, ni., mill,-. Mil h ... Dot. 4288 I n II, Mi i, Belle, St. Lonis St. L 1931 Taylor, Rev. Edw., Brooklyn Bkn. 4772 Taj lor, Rev. G, I. . v » Britain, Ot... Pho 1926 Taylor, S.e\ ■< D., Iluali, N.Y Buf 4210 , Rov. J. C.,W. I. ,i,iii, hi. Pa... Pho 3746 Telford, Rov. R . Rochester Cin. ! 5 i, mi, i ' \ P., m I-., Lyons, Iowa... Chi. 4272 Tenney, Henry vi . Wilbrnhom, Mass. Pha, 4."i7t"> i i - r.i w., PIttsfleld, VK. Ii,'*. 4714 Thatchor(2 . II u.. Ubany Alb. 3388 I i ,i,i II. i I, II Mi ( ,,im,, I, Ct... ll.n. 1667 I in' i VS W., Imlov, > T I Sem . Bos. 4515 'I'll- r , s .1,, i mii. ..Hiii, |],-, Pa it,. 1647 i i IV. V., Wauscon, N I Thompson 2 . K, n 0. C, Detroit Dot. 3974 Thurston, D D Wabash, In, I Pbg. 417r, Till- -ii. Austin I-: , Providence Pha. 47-'9 Tin-I, > , Ret ii,, * ni in.. I ii. I. I n,i. 417- 'i i ov.G i'. Sheldon, \ i. ... Bos. 5048 T s, Rev. I. \ . Mason, Mich Det. 1189 T..UI,, 2 H B Inn i.,. ill Chi. 4725 Ti i.l, i :,, Ri .,, N V Vi„ 3996 Trnver,ll. R . M nil on i nivi rait] I 1 i. 137 T x, Ri v.W.B.,( i in Tupper, Rov. Stunl., Boston Bos. 5050 'I'm: ' lies |. P, in Peo. •" 192 I . ni I, P. 1... Chicago Chi. 4273 1 in., . Edw. II . Philadelphia Pha. 4S47 Valdoni, ,, ■ Ret M t N mi i. Ill 31 I 4122 V ,,, i ' . ii "i i.\ 1 i i , , 1 1 i Van 11 tim Rev. N Mm. in, \. V. . Pha 1086 Van i: ' Juneau, WJ .... Chi. 8083 Van Clove, Rov. I,. P., Hlltsboro ', O.... Tin. 4558 Van Kinnion, Rov. O.R., Cranberry, O. Pbg. 4056 Viele, Rov. A., Arlington, VI Bos, 1174 Virgin, lb. i E. 11 , Boston Bos. 4889 Wiiito.Clias. K., Whatoly, Mo - .... Bos, 1628 Wni,. mii. Stuart Pha. 1848 » ili -,i v u for! N. ^ 1881 Walki ,. Edmund S . Uvei I, N.I N.Y. 1686 Walk, i III - S.S., Bu gton \ i. ,. Bos 4248 Walker, Rev.T . Uu igton, Mass.. Wallaco, Rov. II.. Davenport, town.. . Peo. I I 16 Walton, R, i .' B, Portland D - 3 Ward, Joseph, Puwtucket, R. I Pha. 1756 Ward, Jr., Orrin, Tolland, CI H ir B08 Wardol, Rov. .in- . Chicago Chi. 1264 w ,,i. imos i: Holliston Mti ■ ., . Bos. 10 10 Warren, w . J., B klyn Bkn n iO Wasiuuth, Rev. I-:.. Genesoo, III Chi. I 16 Witters, Rov. \> . G., Bellefontitlne, Cln. 1561 H D 1-...1 ii. n N. V i i.i 1871 Watts, Rev. 1. S . Hi. i, ni. Mass B 19 Wayne Ret ,1, Porta ■ nil. , N. ! Buf. 3881 Weaver, Key. .1 S., Blui Bull, Ohio.... Cln. 1016 Webster, Ret K., Guilf, rd, VI Bo 19 Weed, R, i i: P., Parma, N. V N \ 187! Wei i. i:,i .1 D., I'l.u. iiimiii. V ii... Bos. Weller, Rev. s. II,. Lone, III Chi. 4110 Wells, Rev. M . II irtland, Wis Mil 1625 Well , Rev, M l„ l.,i„ rty, ln-1 [nd, W79 Wells, R, i Shepherd, St, Louis P 3871 Weston, Ret I. .ii ll, in 111 Peo. 8867 Wetherly,Bev.Chns.,N. Cornwall, Ct. II. 1 1 I Wheatley, S I P., St. Lon|s St. L. 8761 Wheeler (2), Ret \ . Sunditslty, Ohio. Cin. 44KI vvi ler, C. II.. Auburn, N. Y Phn vi I ler, Rov. N. J., Skowh, jan, Me D White, David I] I, Ct Phs Vi hite, i in, i, in/, hiii.,, \. V I la. 3783 White, Rev. ii. II.. Boston Pha. 4928 Whitman, Rav.J.S., Willlamsto'u.Ms. Bos. :".ul7 win y, C. M.M. D.,Fitchburg, Mass. Bos. 4JI(i Whitney, K. A. I.. ilhster, Mass Bos, 4393 Whitney, J. P., Boston R W i i. i -ii uu, .1, A.. 1 i,-i Grove, " Cin. I Wight, Rev. W. II. . Hi, ii in, II ,nii \ i v, ,, i,, m Wightmau.Olivei C., Jordunvlllo.N.Y. I in, 3785 w ilburn, .in- A . Ann Arbor, Mich... Det. 3981 Wiley, J., Was I, n Pn PI 4058 Wilkinson Ret H C, Cincinnati Cin W09 Will. ml. Rev. !'. P . Cayuga, N. V Bnf. 1209 Williams, Rov. K - . S 1,1 Minn. St. P '"1 Will in III!-. Rov. I* I , I i nun ii- lint, ,, \1- I:,.- 5040 Williitins, Rov Geo Bangor, Me Bos. 44o.", Williams, .1. K., Indnver TI I. Sem. B, - I 31 \\ illiams, Rev. M., Fori Wayne, I ml, . Pbg. 4".",4 Williams, Rot Owen \.. Brooklyn.... Bkn. 4072 i. ibi nil. K erick M,l... Bal. 3 i fl Williams, Ri t W. S., Memphis St. I„ 1940 \\ liliaiuson, Ri i . R. D., Hoffmann's r, mi N.I Pha. 4866 Williamson, R, H.,Lanslngburg, N.Y. Pha. 4090 038 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Williston, M. L., Northampton, Mass. P>"<. 5045 Winker, F. w.. Canip Chase, Ohio Cin. 441S Winne, Nicholas, Tennallytown, D.C. Wn. 3803 Wiurow, George, Bowling Green, Ky. Pha. 4636 Winslow, Rev. E., New Portland, Me. Bos. 4884 Winslow, Kenelm, New York N. Y. 1882 Walcott, Dana M., Natick. Mass Bos. 471" \\ I, Rev. F. M., Carlisle Station, 0. Cin. 4425 V? lend, Rev. \V. AY., Saltsburg, Pa. Pbg. 4833 W Iruff, N. W., Theresa, N. Y Pha. 6060 Woods, Rev. L., Cumberland, Ohio Cin. 4018 Worrell, Rev. B. G., Prairie City, 111.. Peo. 4603 Win, ii. Rev. George I.., Chicago Chi. 4258 Wright, F. n.. Waverly, N. Y Pha. 4367 Wright (2), T. G., Wilbraham, Mass... Pha. 4577 \\ i mht. Rev. W. B., Chicago Chi. 4259 Wright, Rev. Win. II.. Barnard, Vt... Bos. 5066 Wycnff, Rev. J. D., Peoria Peo. 4349 Wyman, E. A., Essex, N. Y Pha. 4J54 Yates, J. F., Galena, 111 Chi. 44i'4 Young, Rev. Alex. H., S. Salem, Ohio. Cin. 44110 Young, Goo., Starkville, N. Y Pha. 4602 Young, Priestly. Worcester Bos, 4493 Youngman, B. C, Mifflinburg, Pa Pha. 3356 CORRECTIONS. A very few names are not in their exact alphabetical position. Page 630.— Far Baron, Rev. .1. L., read Le Baron, Rev. J. ADDITIONS. YEAR IS 62. Osborne, Rev. Cyrus P., Exeter, N. H. Bos. ... I Safford, Henry, Boston Bos. YEAR 1S63. Abbott. Rev. J. J., Whitinsville, Ms... Bos. Chandler, Rev. A., Lempster, N. II.... Bos. Duffield, Jr., Rev. Geo., Adrian, Mich. Obg. Rowland, Jr., L. P., Boston Bos. Story, Joseph, Boston Bos. 264 Tobey, E. S.. Boston Bos. 378 Willis, Geo. F Pha. YEA R 18 64. Ayres, Rev. R., Hadley, Mass Bos. 2767 Clark, F. G., Francistown, N. H Bos. Cole, Rev. M., Gray, Me Bos. 1660 Crocker, J. B., Yarmouth, Mass Bos. 1657 Cniickshanks, Rev. Jas., Spencer, Ms. Bos. Parwell, Rev. Asa, Haverhill, Mass.... Bos. 1720 Haines, Rev.T.V., Centre Ossipee.N.H. Bos. 3291 Lane, Rev. J. W., Whateloy, Mass Bos. 2769 Loomis, Rev. A. G., Bethlehem, Ct.... Bos. 1695 Loud, C. N., Northampton. Mass Bos. 2705 Miles, Rev. J. B., Charlestown, Mass. Bos. Monjean, C, New Ipswich, N. II Bos. 2761 Newel], Rev. C.H.,E.Templeton, Ms. Bos. 3492 Stowe* Rev. T., New Bedford, Mass.. Bos. Tripp, Rev. L. S., N. Sedgwick, Me... Bos. Tyrrell, S. J., Ilaydenville, Me Bos. 3827 YEAR 1865. Ellis, W. T., Worcester. Mass Bos. Field, Rev. Geo. W., Bangor, Me Bos. Leeds, N. C, Cambridgeport, Mass.... Bos. 507 Morrill, Rev. A. H., Bath, Me Bos. 489: CHAPTER XI. STORES.— SPECIAL DIET KITCHENS. Under the term "Stores" is included all the variety of clothing, food, and medicine, which the Commission sent to the army. When the men left their homes for the camp, at the outbreak of the war, these extra sup- plies were naturally among the first things thought of by their friends. As a consequence, there were thou- sands of private packages, from single families or associa- tions of neighboring families, forwarded to the soldiers. These were filled with delicacies of food, articles of clothing, and little household comforts, and were sent through the express companies or by the hand of per- sonal messengers. Often after an engagement or a movement of special severity or importance, a deputa- tion of one or more citizens, going voluntarily or by re- quest, would visit the troops from their community, carrying down letters and package's from friends, administering such relief as might be practicable, and bringing back such sick or disabled soldiers as might he furloughed for the purpose. The pastors of the churches were sometimes represented in these deputations, and thus foreshadowed the more systematic and compre- hensive Labors of the Delegates of the Christian Com- 639 640 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. mission. 1 When the Commission was first organized it seemed that an important part of its work might be done by facilitating and guarding this transfer of private packages, and thus keeping open the communication between the soldiers and their homes. But as the army increased and the war-line lengthened, this kind of service became more difficult. The location of the troops was constantly changing. Often the movements were sudden and secret, and to a great distance, so that it was impossible to foretell, even for a day, where a particular regiment or company might be. Moreover, as the national feeling developed itself, and the people became adjusted to a state of war, it was seen that their benevolence, to be efficient and economical, should be organized in accordance with a broad and systematic method. The sending of private packages was to a great extent abandoned ; local associations became tribu- tary to national societies ; and distribution was made impartially to the men from all sections, as necessity or opportunity might determine. The business of gathering and forwarding stores soon reduced itself to system. At first, because of universal inexperience, there was lack of judgment in the articles selected and in the manner of packing them. But ex- perience improved all this, and loss or injury became rare. It was seen that many articles, of a jierishable 1 In addition to the names of early Christian laborers in the army, given in the first two chapters of these Annals, mention should be made of Rev. Byron Porter, of Sheloeta, Pa., and Mr. John Ralston, of Elderton, Pa., who visited the Eastern armies in company in January, 1S62; and Rev. S. H. Emery, of Quiney, 111., who visited the Western armies in February, 1862. These men took stores with them, engaged in various religious efforts, and did substantially the work of Christian Commission Delegates. STOBES. 641 kind or suddenly requisite for an emergency, could be better purchased by the Commission as needed. The voluntary supplies therefore became mainly confined to such things as were produced or manufactured at the homes of the donors; But these were neither few in number nor of small value. The estimated cash value of the stores and publications donated to the Commission is put down as $2,953,767.75. Of this sum not more than $150,000 was in the form of publications, 1 — leaving $2,800,000 as the value of donated stores. The Com- mission expended about one-third of its cash receipts, or over $800,000, in the same direction, — making the item of stores distributed through this channel equal to a money value of $3,600,000. The increase in the amount of stores donated to the Commission from year to year was very rapid, — $142,- 150, the first year; ^: , ,S5,S2i».()7 < the second; $1,297,- 755.28, the third; and $1,115,457.75 during four months of the fourth year, — at the rate of $3,346,373.25 for the year. This increase was mainly due to the con- stant extension of benevolent labors for the soldiers, but was due also in part to the fact that local societies, which had previously operated independently or through other channel-, became auxiliaries, in constantly growing numbers, to the Commission. The records of all the offices show this, but none in a manner so striking as Pittsburg and Cincinnati. The remarkable growth in their receipts of stores has been noticed, but tins was probably not greater, — certainly not in the case of Cincinnati, — than the increase in the number of their local tributaries. 1 Ilii-iliH- not include donated Scriptures and Hymn Hooks. SI 042 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. But these large figures give a very indefinite notion of the facts they represent. The numerical statement can be written in a few lines, and read in a few moments, but the labors they imply occupied the thoughts and hands of tens of thousands of patriotic men and women during many weeks and months. Every package, and almost every article in the package, had a double history, — as related to those from whom it came and to those among whom it was distributed. The statistical tables, the facts con- tained in the chapter on Auxiliaries, the narratives of work done in the Eastern and Western armies, and numerous incidents mentioned elsewhere, will enable the reader to estimate the place which these various articles of bodily comfort held among the instrumentali- ties of the Commission. A single case will be given in detail, as a specimen of thousands, to show how these "donated stores" were gathered and forwarded. Lam- bertville is a small town 1 in Hunterdon County, New 1 The Philadelphia North American, in its issue of October 2, 1862, thus writes about the benevolent activity of the smaller towns: — "A vast deal of the warmest benevolence and charily blooms in out-of-the-way places. Stand- ing in front of the rooms of the Christian Commission may be seen at all times a collection of home-made packages awaiting shipment to the soldiers. A small proportion of these are addressed to individuals, but the bulk of them are bread cast upon the waters of benevolence, for distribution among all who need the medicaments, as far as they will go. And, looking over the addresses of the boxes, we find them coming from remote and obscure places quite as often as from well-known towns, — from places set down upon neither map nor guide-book, — the contributions of people who read, and agonize as they read over human suffering. The acknowledgment of these offerings by the Christian Commission is equivalent to the study of geography in its utmost detail. 'Villes' and 'boro's' hitherto unknown are represented by rudely-made boxes, directed with extemporized marking brush, or laboriously printed with pen and ink, but rich in contents, and most welcome to the soldier. From a little hamlet, at the foot of the Alleghenies, came yesterday a rough box con- taining one hundred pounds of tart jelly, the offering of Christian women who STORES. 643 Jersey, — containing in 1860 a population of 2,699. Some of the smaller villages adjacent co-operated in the work for the soldiers. < )n Sunday* October 6, 1861, a call was read in the different churches of Lambertville, for a meeting "to consider the subject of supplying clothing and reading-matter to the troops now in the Held for the defence of the Government." The meeting was held the next evening. Addresses were made, letters read, and a committee appointed to raise money for immediate necessities. Three days after a Ladies' Aid Society was formed and systematic operations begun. The town was divided into districts and collectors ap- pointed, who solicited monthly subscriptions from all. Festivals and celebrations were held from time to time, to aid in supplying requisite means. The community was canvassed for all kinds of suitable stores. In one of their reports the ladies say, " In the special efforts, for raising both funds and hospital stores, much aid has been received from the farmers and others in the sur- rounding country and villages on both sides of the river." These efforts were usually preceded by public announcement, sometimes in the form of a little circular put into each house, as was the ease after the battle of Gettysburg; the gatherers would then pass around; and the average result for each of such benevolent "raids," according to the returns made from seven of them, was twenty boxes and barrels. 1 It was also the custom of had culled the fruit and prepared it in their intervals "I" leisure. A barrel of dried ru>k we saw, coming from a town of which the name had been partially obliterated, and of which no one could give even an approximate guess." 1 The despatch with which the country towns made up and forwarded their stores was often as noticeable as their liberality. Within three days the town of Elkhorn, Wisconsin (population in lsi'.iiv.a- l.o.Sl i, forwarded twenty-one 644 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. the Society to make and put up, at the proper season, quantities of currant jelly, blackberry wine, canned tomatoes, and fruits, pickles, etc. This was sometimes done by individual members at home, and sometimes by united effort at a designated time and place. Material was purchased for hospital clothing, and the garments cut and manufactured by the ladies. At stated or special meetings their goods were packed and forwarded, carefully invoiced and marked, — each package contain- ing the post-office address of some officer of the Society, so that its receipt and distribution could be acknowledged by the agent or Delegate into whose hands it should come. Many and precious were the letters thus re- reived, — from the armies East and West, from various hospitals, and even from Libby Prison, — encouraging and stimulating the noble band of workers to continued endeavors. As the total result of their labors, these ladies raised $4,094.83 in cash, $1,600 worth of stores, to which was added $700 worth of sewing upon gar- ments ; and, as a final offering, $1,500 toward a monu- ment to the deceased soldiers from their community, — making in all $7,894.83. To this the efficient army committee of the place, under the lead of Mr. J. A. Anderson, added $3,619.50, — so that the offering of Lambertville for this one object may be set down at $11,514.33. And at the end of the work they were vastly richer in experience and noble sentiment and hallowed memories than at the beginning. This sugges- barrels to Milwaukee. Within twenty hours, following the news of a battle, the town of Milton, Pennsylvania (population 1,702 in 1860), sent stores esti- mated 1 by Governor Pollock to he worth one dollar and fifty cents for each man, woman, and child in the place. STORES. 645 fcive record could be duplicated many limes, and yet the full story of those local societies remain untold. It was said that every package had a home-history. The agent at Point Lookout, Rev. L. Hartsough (a faithful and efficient man), received "a neat box stowed full of nice fruit, — just what was needed." It was from Andover, Massachusetts, and among the contents was this letter : — The thermometer is at 90° in the shade, and I as near sick as need be, when In rushes Charlie, who had I u to the river to bathe: "Oh, mother; I have just found a spot of blackberries; 1 and you know von want to gel some for the soldiers, and cannot buy any: so i e this minute, before anyone gets them." Could I go? I hesitate but a minute. What if I did have to ache for the venture? I have my quiet chair and house, and some dear hoy may need and shall have them. So I go ; and here they are, — only a few, but a mother's blessing goes with them. I did not get sick, although the heat, where they lay drying up, was intense, as Charlie and I can testify : hut we thought of the soldiers, and did not leave one. Dear nurse, don't despise the little box I send. These trifles may help to com- fort our soldier boys, and I keep sending, and shall, as long as they need and I have anything to send. 1 Very many interesting incidents might be given, of the gathering of various kinds of fruit for the soldiers, by children and others. A pastor in Sharon Springs, New York, writes: — "Our Sabbath-scl I lias been black- berrying for the Christian Commission. Several days were appointed in which my wife would receive the berries and prepare them. A.s a result we have put up about eighty quarts in tin cans of two quarts each, making thirty quarts of jam." The Memorial Record of the New York Branch, p. 24, says that "a benevolent gentleman in ( lonnecticut, having charge of one of the large estab- lishments for condensing milk, had notices circulated that be would prepare and forward, without charge to the C ission, all the blackberries the people would pick and Bend to him. Within a short time more than i ighty bushels were sent to ld> establishment. These were prepared without delay, and forwarded to the rooms of the Commission in New York, and thence sent to different points where troops were stationed in the South." 646 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. And almost every article had a history. " In a small town of New Hampshire a Delegate 1 of the Christian Commission told of his work to a small audience. When the boxes were passed, an old man of eighty put in a small, red, cotton handkerchief. The collector, think- ing he had made a mistake, took it uj) to return it; hut he made a sign to have it retained. "When the meeting- was over the clergyman of the place said to the speaker : Captain "W. has given you the last thing that he has, that he could give. A few years ago the only one of his sons who could aid him came home to take charge of his aged parents, and they looked to him for support in their declining years. When the war came the son felt it to be his duty to enlist. He went, with his father's blessing, and he now fills a soldier's grave in the South." 1 Prof. E. T. Quimhv, of Hanover, N. II. Prof. Quimby deserves special mention, as showing the manner in which the Commission was sustained at home, after being served in the field, by its Delegates. He gave a term of service to the Army of the Cumberland in 1863, and another to the Army of the Potomac in lsii-4; and spent a huge portion of his Sabbaths, from 1S63 to tin- end of the war, in making addresses throughout New Hampshire, — raising a large amount of money and stores for the Commission, and securing many excellent Delegates. 2 The motive which sent our soldiers to the field, and the spirit which pre- vailed in the homes that sent them, cannot he better expressed than in the subjoined letters. The first is from a Christian soldier to his little daughter, — being, ;i- ii proved, his last letter, written the day before he received his fatal wound : — Fokt Baker, October 20, 1S04. 1 >"'/■ Lottie: I found a small white envelope among the others that you put into my box before I came away from home, and I knew that Lottie put it there, because she wanted me to write to her. Well, it always does us good to please those that love us; and I am glad to think that my little girl would be pleased to have me write to her. It is a pleasant task for me; and the thought of good, loving children at home, who think of me every day, who for my sake are trying to he good to their mother, and make her happy, is a source of comfort, encour- agement, and consolation, that I cannot describe with my pen, nor tell with STOKES. Ill, When he fell, the old man supported himself and liis aged wife by his labor. He is utterly penniless. He my tongue. How far this thought goes, or how much it contributes to reconcile me to the separation that, for their Bakes, I have voluntarily endured, you can never realize until like circumstances call forth like feelings; and 1 earnestly pray thai this may never be, 1 know that you do not now realize thai I am here because I l.>ve yon, ami that you do not appreciate the necessity of my being here. Bui by-and-by, when you grow up, you will understand things better; and when you read in history of this war, and of its causes and objects, you will be glad that your father left home when you were a little girl, and went forth to contend for the right. You will love me all the more then, and so will all the rest of m\ children. This is the thought thai encourages and i soles me; and then, besides this, the consciousness of none other than good and |>ure motives,— and above all, the consolation, from day today, that religion affords me, — all contribute to make me happy, even while the constant, longing, lingering anxiety about my home and family keeps them every moment in my thoughts, 'fry and he good, Lottie, if you love me. and want to do what you can to make me happy. Be good to your mother and grandmother, ami brothers and sisters. Try to he good to the Lord, ami then you will he happy yourself, and everybody will love you; and if I should never see you again on earth, we shall meet in heaven. 1 pray for you many times every day, and I want you to p: \n for yourself and me. Try to learn in your books; go to school and Sunday- school always, when you can. Save this letter until you get older. Tell Harry I will write to him before long; and Freddy, that I mean to send him some pretty stones 1 have picked up for him. Kiss all t hi' family for me, from grandma to the baby, and love them all. God bless you. Father. The second letter is from bereaved and stricken parents to a Delegate of the Christian < lommission : — Westminsteh, Mvss., June 22, 1884. Dear Sir: In behalf of my wife I hasten to answer your kind letter to her, which she reci ived last evening, giving us the sad intelligence that our dear boy, Charlie, is wounded in the arm; and we unitedly give you our hearty thanks for this information. We have an older son, who was wounded on the 3d of this oh, in the arm, and is in the hospital at Alexandria; and another one, who died in the hospital, near Yieksburg, last July; and .another one still, who was discharged from a hospital in Virginia, after lying there about four months, with broken-down health. And 1 think we have hearts to say, "The will of the Lord he done," in all these events. May the Lord bless you in your labors of love for the poor soldier- and our beloved country. .1. \t. S. B. M. 648 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. recently told me that lie would be glad to do something for benevolence, but ' for six months,' said he, ' I have had but three cents of my own.'" 1 The variety and amount of stores sent by the Com- mission to the army will be best appreciated by an examination of the following list. These articles were sent from the Central Office alone to the troops before Richmond, within a period of three months. During the same time heavy shipments were made from the Central and Branch Offices to the troops in the West and South. Stores distributed by the U. S. Christian Commission, during the months of May, June, and July, 1864, in the Armies operating against Richmond. CLOTHING, HOSPITAL GARMENTS, ETC. Arm-slings Bandages, rolls.... Bedticks Blankets Blankets, Rubber. Buckles Buttons, cards Caps Coats Collars Cotton, spools Crutches, pairs.... Drawers Dressing Gowns.... Eye-shades Gloves, pairs Handkerchiefs Hats Housewives Lint, large cases... Muslin, pieces 469 35,339 41 66 i 52 288 2 303 84 22 97 1,252 10,439 426 12 93 9,077 1,848 4,920 51 Musquito IVames, sets 509 Musquito Nets 708 Neck-ties 45 Needles 4,100 rads 3,634 Pantaloons 77 Pantaloons, Rubber 4 Pillows 2,655 Pillow Cases 1.457 Pins, papers 4 Pin Cushions 24 Quilts and Spreads 412 Sheets 1,040 Shirts 14.570 Shiies, pairs liil Slippers, pairs 2,060 Sucks, pairs 11.5(10 Suspenders, pairs 2,436 Thread, pounds 13 Towels 5,376 Vests 122 1 Address of Charles Demond, Esq., before the Alumni of Williams Col- lege, 1865. STORKS. Cl<.) Apples, barrels Apples, Dried, pound Arrow Elo it, pounds. . Barley, pounds Beef, I >ried, pounds... 13 ... 3,955 394 66 596 Beef Tea, pounds 6,350 Beets, barrels 2 Bologna Sausage, pounds 736 Bread, loaves 16o Broma, pounds 1,080 Butter, pounds 946 Cabbages 906 Catsup, bottles 1 1 Corn Starch, pounds In. -17 Cheese, pounds 5,950 ( Shocolate, pounds 2,472 Chow ' !how, cans 194 < Jitric Acid, boxes 2 Cocoa, pounds 3,083 Codfish, pounds 7,600 Coffee, pounds 4,004 Coffee, Extract, bottles 4S Condiments,assorted, pounds. 154 Crackers, pounds 28,266 Cranberries, boxes 3 Duck, canned, pounds 72 Eggs, barrels 12 Farina, pounds 9,805 Pigs, boxes 2 Flavoring Extracts, bottles... 2,031 Flour, pounds 1,400 Fruits, assorted, cans 15,600 Fruits. Dried, pounds 402 Fruit Syrup, bottles 12,215 Gelatine, pounds 454 (ino-o. canned, pounds 2SS Hani, pounds 4,543 Herring, boxes 15 Honey, bottles 141 Horseradish, bottles 33 Ice, tons 207 Jellies, cans 12,564 S2 ARTICLES OF FOOD, ETC. Lamb, canned, pounds t00 Lard, pounds 60 Lemons, boxes 709 Macaroni, pound- 2 Meats, assorted, cans 2,952 Meats, assorted, pound- 8,800 Milk, Condensed, can- 38,290 .Mutton, canned, pounds 3,888 Nutmegs, pounds 9 Oat Meal, pounds 427 Onions, barrels 57 Oranges, boxes :;41 Oysters, cans 243 Peaches, cans :;. 150 Peaches, Dried, pounds 380 Pepper, pounds 98 Pepper Sauce, jars 6 Pickles, assorted, gallons 3,910 Pigs Feet, pounds 500 Potatoes, barrels 196 Prunes, pounds 362 Quinces, fresh, boxes 10 Sago, cans 13 Salmon, canned, pounds 216 Salt, bags 120 Sardines, cans 7 Soup, cans 463 Sugar, pounds 18,127 Rice, pounds 179 Boast Beef, canned, pounds.. 2,529 Rusk, Pried, pounds 2.720 Tamarinds, jars 4o Tapioca, pounds 119 Tea. pounds 1,809 Tomatoes, cans 18, 17s Tongue, Beef, pounds b> Turkey, canned, pound- 5,544 Turnips, barrels 1" Veal, canned, pounds 216 Vinegar, gallons 100 Yeast Powder, papers 288 650 ANNALS OF THE CJIKISTIAN COMMISSION. Alcohol, bottles Ale and Porter, bottles, Bay Rum, bottles Brandy, bottles Camphor, gallons Chloride of Soda, cask Cider, Lotties MEDICINES, STIMULANTS, ETC. 411 s 5,284 1,322 3,597 10 Cologne, bottles 832 Cordial, bottles Dover Powders, pound: Elixir Tonic, pounds... Flaxseed, quarts Hops, pounds 68 120 8 106 Jamaica Ginger, bottles 4,618 Liniment, bottles 7 Liquors, assorted, bottles 1,402 Medicines, assorted, bottles.. I ! Medicines, assorted, chest.... 1 Mutton Tallow, cans 5 Oil, bottles 17 Pills, box 1 Plaster, yards 140 liaspherry, bottles :; Salts, Epsom, bottles ."ill Salve, boxes 4 Whisky, bottles 885 Wine, bottles 5,721 MISCELLANEOUS ARTICLES. Axes Baskets Blacking, boxes Buckets Camp Kettles, nests. SO II 60 49 31 Candles, pounds 1,201 Candlesticks 24 Catheters 12 Combs 2,316 Cream Freezers 3 Cups and Saucers 328 Envelopes 468,500 .. 6, 7:2;> 10 12 6 276 14 880 52 25 Fans Funnels Grates Hospital Tahli 3. Ink, bottles Kettles Knives and Forks Lanterns Lemon Squeezers. Matches, boxes Pans, Iron Taper. Writing, quires- Pencils Pen Holders Plates Saw- Scissors Sick Feeders Soap, pounds Sponge, pounds Spoons Tin Cans Tin Cups Wasb Basins Wash Tubs Water Pails Hospital Store-, assorted, not enumerated aboi e, eases 1,210 10 24,302 2,872 1,028 59 2'.i4 6 239 60 2, 199 63 1,236 II 884 ISO is 24 G56 STOKES. 651 Special mention must be made of the comfort-bags or housewives, of which the above lisl contains nearly five thousand. Those were little bags of various shapes and sizes, filled with needles, pins, thread, yarn, buttons, etc., — often containing a pair of scissors, 1 thimble, steel pens, lead pencil, handkerchiefs, and such other article-. A housewife was not complete without a letter from the maker to the soldier who should receive it, or at least a Testament or trad giving her address. These "needle albums," as one soldier happily called them, were of great service to the men, in aiding them in the homely duty of keeping their clothes in repair, and they were highly prized also as tokens of love and remembrance from the children of the country. For they were manu- factured principally by the Sunday-school children, and were sent to the army by tens of thousands. Many of them were made of fine material, and tastefully elabo- rated, hut the majority and more serviceable were plain and strong. The men were eager to get them; the 1 Rev. Dr. J. P. Thompson, of New York, who was in Tennessee ami Georgia, as a Delegate of the Commission, in the spring of 1864, relates this incident in bis work at Dalton : — " We saw a newly-opened grave. Ii was for a Michigan boy of eighteen, who had been shot down at the side of his fattier, who was a private in the same company. The father sat beside tin' grave, carving his boy's name upon a rude headboard. It was his first-horn. I took him by the hand, ami gave him all my heart ; oilered a prayer, which Brother Holmes followed with appropriate words. There was no coffin, but a few pieo of board were laid in the bottom of the grave, between the body ami the bare ground. ' Wrap him in this blanket,' said the father; 'it is one his sister sent him. Ah me ! how will thev bear it at borne '.' What will his poor mother do? She must have a lock of his hair.' I Stooped In CUt tin- Inch with my penknife, when a soldier came forward with a pair of scissors from his little ' housewife.' My heart blessed the Sabbath-school child who had made that timely gift. And ~i>, having rendered the lasl offices of faith ami affection, «• laid tin- brave boy in his grave, while the cannon were still roaring the doom of others, young and brave, whom we had just left on the field." <">-V2 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. precious letters they contained were sure to go the rounds of the company or mess, and were sure of being answered by the proud recipients; and best of all, not a few dated their Christian life from the simple and earnest entreaty of some Sunday-school child, who through these little gifts assured them that they were daily remembered in prayer. And thousands of chil- dren were made glad and thoughtful by the answers that came to them from the camp and hospital. One instance may be given: — Clara Lizzie E., seven years old, living in Hamilton, Mass., made some comfort-hags, which she sent to the Christian Commission at Boston to distribute. In each was a simple letter from her to the soldier who should receive it. In return she re- ceived the following letters, which give the history of one of her gifts: — Camp op the Niki n second Regiment, N. Y. Volunteers, 1 Eighteenth Army Cohps : near Bi rhuda Hundred, Va. > Wednesday Evening, September 28, L884. I My dear, kind Utile Friend: — I should think myself very unkind, and not worthy of the blessed comfort-bag that you wore kind enough to make for a stranger, did I not write you a few lines to let you know what soldier, out of the many thousands who are now fighting tin- the star-spangled banner, received it, and how thankful he was, my little friend. The pen cannot describe nor words portray to you how thankful we soldiers are to receive such little notions from even strangers, especially the young ladies. We are happy to know that we are not forgotten by the little young ladies. I thank you for the tracts. I promise you they will all be read by myself, and given to my brother soldiers for the same purpose. Perhaps my little friend would like to know how I came to get her comfort-bag. Yesterday evening our dear chaplain invited some of us boys down to his tent to a prayer-meeting. After meeting, lie said he had been able to procure a few more comfort- STORES. 658 bags from the Christian Commission, and th;it he had taken this method to give them to the soldiers. He did nol have quite e gh to go around, so I did nol get one, bul he assured all those that did nol get one that he would remember them in a day or two. This r. m. he culled me down to his tent, and gave me your wide. inn fort-bag, which I again thank you for. Wo arc under marching orders. I shall think of you when I am drinking a good cup of tea, some night when lam fatigued by the hardships of a soldier's life. I have been a soldier al st three years, and my time is out uext month. I live in the Northern part of the State of New York. I think you must lie a smart girl of seven, to make so many little bags and till them all yourself, without the help of some kind sister or a loving mother. Again I thank you, and may God bless you and all our kind friends at the North. Good-bye. Your friend, Samuel Griffin, CQ.Q,WdN. r. Vd ,3d Brigade, 1 I Division, \Sth i To Miss Clara Lizzie E. My dear little heavenly comforter, this letter is the last penning of the receiver of your message of comfort and cheer. lie was killed just twenty-four hours after receiving it. The letter was all pre- pared for mailing before he left camp. May God bless your dear little sold, and all others who do like you, pray fur the soldiers. II. B. Sanford, XAeut. ' bmmanding Vo G 92d .v. }*. It has been shown that, although the Commission's work was mainly an attention to the intellectual and religious wants of the army, this work could not he done without the use of large quantities of supplies for bodily comfort and relief. This is manifest in many id' the narratives and incidents thai have been given, and mighl be still further illustrated to almost any extent. For the army-history of these articles was certainly not less instructive ami touching than their home-history. It would he needful to give a complete account of every package to gel a full effect. Not to attempt a review of 654 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. the whole subject, of the many ways in which the distri- bution of stores furthered the aims of the Commission, one form of this ministry should be dwelt upon some- what particularly, — the preparation of suitable food for sick and disabled men. It was, for obvious reasons, principally among this class that the articles of food furnished by the Commission were distributed. 1 Those who were well and in active service could more comfort- ably subsist upon the ordinary rations. The enfeebled appetite of the sick and wounded needed something more delicate and attractive. It was no small nor un- important part of the Delegate's duty, in his rounds through hospital or camp, to seek out those who were in want of this special attention, and to see that, under the surgeon's guidance, they received it. The convenient form in which many articles of food could be sent to the army. — as preserved fruits, meats, vegetables, milk, etc., — rendered this an easy task in many cases, even where there was no opportunity for careful cookery. Large quantities of fresh fruits, even of the more perish- able kinds, as grapes, berries, peaches, etc., were also distributed, as many of the hospitals were near to the markets or were readily reached by railroad. A few 'The list given. on pp. 648-650 will suggest to the reader a special care for the sick and wounded. The following- is the invoice of a cargo shipped by the Commission from Boston in the schooner ('Inrlntte Shine, which arrived at City Point a few hoars previous to a severe engagement. It afforded great comfort to the wounded. The articles were, — 264 tons of ice: 125 Mils, potatoes; 7S lbs. onions; 10 bbls. turnips; 90O cabbages, in crate-: 7 ~> o o lbs. codfish: 70 boxes lemons; 10 boxes oranges ; 2 casks prunes; 5 bbls. pickled limes; 5 kegs tama- rinds; 40 boxes broma; 40 boxes cocoa; 10 boxes chocolate; 10 bbls. pickles; lo ten-gallon kegs pickles; 10 five-gallon kegs pickles ; 20 dozen raspberry syrup ; 10 dozen ginger syrup; 5 dozen lemon syrup; 20 dozen red currant jelly: 6 dozen raspberry jam; 10 dozen blackberry jam; 200 dozen condensed milk. STORES. 655 examples will be of interest. Rev. E. P. Smith writes from Nashville, under date < » t* July 13, 1864: — I am buying all the berries brought to market, for ten cents per quart, and feeding the sick in these hospitals. I had eight bushels this morning, and shall have more to-morrow. Do I spend money too freely? If you could sec the poor fellows eat our chickens, and cry over a saucer of blackberries, you would not a-k me to retrench. Mrs. Smith cooks at our house special diet dinners for the patients of hospital No. 14. Yesterday she went in with her pails and tubs and baskets around among the cots. One man, terribly mangled in the shoulder, tried to be brave, and not appear to need anything. At ever} proposition from Mrs. S., he said, "No, I thank you," even to chicken soup; but when he saw the blackberries his courage gave wav. lie would take some; and then when tic sugar was sprinkled on, he cried out, " Sugar, too ! and white sugar at that; that's too much ;" and he was obliged to ask the nurse to wipe his face. The tears were blinding him. To-day his cot was empty. It was his last earthly testimony of affection. On receiving a shipment of grapes a1 Nashville, in October, L864, Mr. W. A. Lawrence writes: — Those fifty boxes of grapes! Nothing could have been more appropriate. The ladies went through the wards, giving them to all the men on the cots, under the direction of the surgeons. Pale, thin hands, contrasting with the rich purple clusters they were holding; the thanks, smiles, and sometimes tears, of the soldiers; the light step and full hearts of the distributors, and the gratified look of the surgeon and ward officials, — these arc things to he seen and felt, hut not to he reported on paper. Every grape had its value, anil reached it- -pot. Blessings on the donors of those clusters! A Delegate, a student in Andover Theological Semi- nary, tells this story of a peach: — I never dreamed that so much good could he accomplished by such simple means. A basket of peaches would give joy to a G56 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. hundred wounded men. I shall never forget the case of William C, a Pennsylvania soldier, who had undergone amputation of the right thigh, and was suffering the utmost intensity of human anguish. He was sinking very rapidly, and had taken no nourishment for several da vs. "When I first saw him, he seemed utterly hopeless of recovery. His wife had been summoned from home; hut it was feared that, he would die before it was possible for her to reach him. I took a nice peach from my basket ; he brightened at the sight of it. I pared it for him, and put it in his mouth, bit by bit; and the look of gratitude which he gave me was ample reward for the wdiole six weeks' service. Next morning I went to his bedside, and said, "What can I do for you this morning?" With a smile he whis- pered, "Have you got another peach for me?" And so I repeated the operation of the previous morning. For a whole week he lingered along, with no other nourishment than his morning peach, and the thought that there was some one who cared for him. Mean- while his wife arrived, and cheered his last hours with words of Christian hope. He fell asleep in Jesus. But from the first more or less attention was given to the special preparation of food for the disabled soldiers. AYhile there was always great lack in this respect, and consequently much suffering, more than can he readily understood or believed, — particularly in the field hospi- tals, — yet not a little was done to mitigate it. Many of the hospitals, in the earliest days of the war, were estab- lished in Washington, Baltimore, Philadelphia, Cincin- nati Louisville, St. Louis, etc., and in these cities the ladies at once organized themselves for hospital work. Under direction of the hos]:>ital authorities, committees of ladies were in constant attendance as volunteer nurses, and delicacies of food and other comforts were prepared in their homes and brought with them in their hospital visits. In all these places many ladies, whose names will never be known to the public, gave themselves to STORES. 00/ this service for months, — to their own spiritual advan- tage and the unspeakable comfort of the suffering men. 1 The manner in which these labors were performed is well shown in the first annual report of the Ladies' Union Relief Association of Harrisburg, Penna., as pre- sented by their President, Mary S. Beatty. The material portions of the report are here given : — At the close of a year since our organization, it seems proper that some account of our work should be laid before this community, which has so liberally aided us in all our undertakings. It will be remembered that the preliminary meeting was held in obedience to a call signed by a number of ladies and published in our daily papers. This call was heartily responded to by members of every denomination in the city, our Hebrew brethren cordially uniting with us. A society was formed under the name of "Ladies' Union Relief Association ;" a president, vice-president, and executive com- mittee wire elected, and a constitution adopted. A committee W'as appointed to wait upon the surgeon in charge at Camp Curtin, and obtain his consent to unite with him in endeavoring to alleviate, in every possible way, the sufferings of our noble soldiers. This con- sent was cheerfully given, and the association at once took measures to begin the work. A room was kindly offered in a private house, where stores could be received, and where they soon began to come in upon us in great abundance. We now made arrangements to carry a daily meal to Camp Curtin, a mile from the city. To this end twenty-four ladies were called upon ever}' morning, through the public papers, to pro- vide the -nine article of food, — one day rice puddings, one day stewed chickens, one day soup, another vegetables, another fruit, and another home-made bread and butter, — so that all might fare alike; ■The /'.■'■ ' " Hn-i.v f>r iviiJiit, lsi'i.'i p. .">.") 3 1, S ;iys : "The Sanitary and Christian Commissions [by furnishing occasion and motive for extraordinary benevolent activity] have dispelled the cloud that has settled on many a lonely, morbid, introverted soul in our American households. They have done scarcely less good at home than they have done at the front and in the hospital." S3 658 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. besides which wines, cordials, and other things were provided for such men as were too ill to be fed indiscriminately. Two young ladies were appointed to receive these articles at our room, while from four to six ladies were required to accompany and dispense them through the hospitals at Camp Curtin. There were at this time several hundred sick and wounded men here ; so it will be seen that both time and labor were necessary to carry out our plans. For many weeks we proceeded in this way; then, the number of men diminishing, sixteen ladies responded daily to the call for food ; and then ten daily. About this time the quartermaster-general of the State, the late R. C. Hale, placed under the control of the Association the vast amount of hospital stores wdiich had been sent here by the generous people of every town, village, and hamlet of the State, and which we endeavored faithfully to distribute, both here and elsewhere. Vast quantities were sent away to Washington, to the battle-field of Antietam, to Louisville, St. Louis, to the Christian Commission, Sanitary Commission, and to individuals wherever and whenever we heard they were required. This, too, involved a vast amount of labor, but it was cheerfully shared by all. In this way the work went on until late in the autumn, when, with permission of the post surgeon, we had a kitchen erected on the hospital ground at Camp Curtin. Thither four ladies of the Association repaired daily at 9 o'clock in the morning, and remained until evening, preparing such food as was deemed suitable for the men, — beef tea, beef essence, gruels, farina, barley water, wine whey, soups, tea, chocolate, and whatever else was necessary. Four ladies served three days, and then their places were filled by four others, all ready and willing for the work, and this continued without intermission until the. small-pox prevailed to such an extent that it was no longer considered safe to go to Camp Curtin. The hospitals, too, were closed, with the excep- tion of one, and the men brought to town, where we continued our attentions to them. In many instances, sick and dying soldiers have been removed from the hospitals to private houses, where they have been watched with the most tender care, until they were restored to health, or until death released them from their sufferings. I must not neglect, how- ever, here to say, that long before the Union Relief Association STOKES. 659 ivas formed, soldier.-' aid societies existed in 3everal if not all our churches, whence much efficient aid emanated. Those societies were all merged in the Union, and large donations in money generously sent to our treasury. But I may also be allowed to remark, that in preparing food for the hospitals our treasury was rarely drawn upon, each lady sending the articles from her own house. There are at this time six hospitals in this city, all filled with siek and wounded men, to the number of several hundred. Our Association is now in active operation. We have sent aid to Gettysburg, York, Cham- bersburg, and Carlisle. Our thanks are due to the Branch of the United States Christian Commission now established in our city, for permission to use their stores where our own are deficient. We also return our grateful acknowledgments to all our citizens who have assisted us whenever we required it. And in towns in the vicinity of many of the early battle-fields the same kind of work was done, — the loyal Ladies doing their utmost to relieve the sufferers. In October, 1862, a few weeks after the battle of Antietam, Mr. Joseph Ogden, one of the first Delegates, writes from Frederick, Md.: — Mr. and Mrs. Bantz devote nearly their whole time to the sick and wounded. [They had been doing this for more than a year.] Mr. Bantz opens and distributes stores from morning till night. Mrs. Bantz cooks choice dishes and sends them to the nun. About three hundred men came into Frederick last night. Mrs. Bantz, being apprised of their coming, had a barrel ami a half of sandwiches prepared for them. The ladies of Frederick deserve the highest praise. They work night and day for the comfort of our poor fellows. They receive sugar, Hour, farina, etc., from the Com- missions, convert them into wholesome diet, and send them out to the men. And our men appreciate their kindness. They come in from the barns and outhouses in the country, filthy and hungry, and are clothed and fed by these people. Annapolis, — where paroled and exchanged Union pri- 660 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. sorters were received, — furnishes another instance. Mrs. W. E. Board man, under date of July 13, 1862, gives an interesting account of a visit there, — carrying with her a variety of stores from Philadelphia. She says : — "Mrs. Governor Bradford and Mrs. Judge Brewer had under- taken to see that the daily food for the sick and wounded in the hospital was well cooked, and to see that the physicians' orders were obeyed and none of the men neglected. Finding the labor too much for the few who engaged in it, they made an appeal to the Union women of the town. These came together, organized themselves into a Union Benevolent Society, and sup- plied the needed aid for the great work." Such are illustrations of valuable and efficient services rendered at numerous points during the entire period of the war. The same spirit that prompted such labors at home determined a number of these ladies to venture them- selves within army lines. Some were representatives of benevolent societies, local or national ; some were the wives of officers or men in the service; but many were independent in their action, — gaining access to the army through their own influence or that of friends, and laboring wherever they could be most useful. 1 These ladies often engaged in distributing stores, — receiving them from the Commissions or from private sources, — 1 Rev. E. F. Williams, writing from the Christian Commission's station at the City Point General Hospital, in July, 1SG4, says: — "One of our tents is occu- pied by some ladies from the city of New York, who, coming out independently of any association, have identified themselves with the Christian Commission, ami have drawn from our stores. The surgeons have expressed their high appre- ciation of the services of these ladies; and well they may, for, unlike many others, they came to work rather than to satisfy curiosity, and have therefore done the soldiers real and great good." STnKKS. 661 especially in preparing and dispensing delicacies of fond among the sick. After several of the severer battles, as Gettysburg, they rendered valuable aid. They were found in all parts of the army. Some of them sealed their devotion with their lives. But the Delegates of the Christian Commission, from the very beginning of their work in the army, gave attention to the special preparation of food for the sick and wounded. The first reports received contain evi- dence of this. Their facilities for such service were indeed few, and the variety of dishes that could lie prepared was small. Yet from camp-kettles and cal- drons then- were given to weary, suffering men such supplies of tea, coffee, soup, gruel, milk punch, etc., as, with all their homeliness, had not a little of the flavor and refreshing of home. Several illustrations of this have been given in the narratives of field work. Rev. E. F. Williams, in describing the establishment of the Christian Commission at the City Point General Hospi- tal, in the summer of L864, thus speaks of the "Cook- ing Tent": — In tin 1 rear of the square in which the main tents of the Commis- sion are pitched is a large fly tent (No. 8), fifty by twenty feet, stretched upon a frame work of heavy pules. Here the food of the Delegates is prepared, and here also beef tea, farina, corn starch, milk punch, lemonade, etc., are prepared in large quantities, and distributed to those eases which the Delegates, while going their regular rounds, find specially needy. Here we distribute only upon the order of our own Delegates. Yesterday, July * (counting a cup of tea as a ration, and leaving out of view the lemonade ami canned licet' issued), three thousand three hundred and ten (3,310) rations were distributed, — a number sufficient to reach every man in the General Hospital, certainly every needy man. Here we have two FRONT TOWARDS GENERAL HOSPITAL. Flag. No.l. Soldiers' Reading and Writing Room. No. '.'. POStOffll -..,;,!]. 1 Reading and w riting Room for Delegates. I'ASSAliU PASSAGE. No. 3. Store Room. I> \.»> ii. i- No. 7. Sleeping Tent. •_'l Beds. No. 5. Office of Field Agent. No. 6. a Individual Relief. No. 4. Sleeping Tent. 24 lleds. RISING GROl ND. SO by 15 fecit. No. 9. Sleeping Tent. No. 10. Dining Tent No. 12. Booth. Horse Stable. - No. 14. * i > Eh jzj C En J 1 Eh S CO o m o H iJ ■aj w - 1= Eh <-, Eh V. m P. « ■o H O o o CO i— i « o 002 SPECIAL DIET KITCHENS. <><>•> cooking stoves of the largest size; a bakery with four ovens, one above the other; and four caldrons which hold forty-five gallons apiece, and which are generally filled to their utmost capacity. In this establishment there arc employed two Delegates, who have the general oversight of the cooking and distributing, with four regular . ioks and their five assistants, — so that this is really the busiest spot on the grounds of the Commission. 1 Yd these various expedients, serviceable as they were, did not fully meet the want, To do this there was needed in each hospital such facilities ami arrangements as would enable all of the feebler class of patients to receive with unfailing regularity, under the immediate supervision of the surgeon, a nutritious and attractive diet, suitably prepared and served. It was the privilege of the Christian Commission to contribute materially toward supplying this necessity in the establishment of their Mrs. Annie Witlcnmyor, of Iowa, was Sanitary Agenl for thai State, in the early years of the war. As such she received and distributed among the Iowa troops in the Western armies the supplies furnished by the people, under the direction of the State Government. Her observation of the sufferings and necessities of the 1 This Gen ral Hospital, in tents, covered forty acres, and was situated on the Boutli bank of the Appomattox, about a mile from it- confluence with tin- James. The Christian Commission station, previous to the erection of its wooden build- ings, occupied fifteen tents, situated at the Eastern end or front of the hospital. The accompanying diagram shows tin- relative positions <>t' the Commission's tents, and will give some notion of the dimensions of the station. The v len buildings afterward erected were the same in number, and upon tin iti See p. 121. a Mrs. Wittenmyer furnished valuable assistance in the preparation of this section ul' tliL' Annals. 664 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. men, and her desire to see them effectually relieved, turned her thoughts to the subject of hospital diet. While noticing the efforts made by surgeons and their assistants to give to their patients a suitable diet, and also noticing the endeavors to supplement these efforts by voluntary labors, as described above, she saw that the great want could not be overcome except by some plan, comprehensive and exact, that should maintain military discipline on the one hand while on the other it met the special necessities of every individual patient. The result of her observations and thoughts took shape in the system of Christian Commission Special Diet Kitchens, with which her name will be forever asso- ciated. It can hardly be needful now to dwell upon the im- portance of a proper diet for the sick. And yet Miss Nightingale's terrible statement is probably still true, that " thousands of patients are annually starved, in the midst of plenty, from want of attention to the ways which alone make it possible for them to take food." 1 1 In her valuable Xotes on Hospitals (third edition, London, 1S63), pp. 45, 4(>, Miss Nightingale says: — "Two facts every careful observer can establish from experience: First, The necessity for variety in food, as an essential element of health, owing to the number of materials required to restore and preserve the human frame. In sickness it is still more important, because, the frame being in a morbid state, it is scarcely possible to prescribe beforehand with certainty what it will be able to digest and assimilate. The so-called 'fancies' of disease are often valuable indications. Second, The importance of cooking so as to secure the greatest digestibility and the greatest economy in nutritive value of food. Feeling the importance of this element in recovery, I have often been surprised by the primitive kitchens of some of our civil hospitals, with which little variety of cooking is possible. It shows how little diet and cooking are yet thought of as sanitary and curative agents. There still exists a confusion of ideas about 'spoiling' the sick, about 'too much indulgence' of the patients, and even yet comparatively little is practically known as to what is and what is not essential for restoration to health." SPECIAL DIET KITCHENS. 665 To the sick man food and medicine are only different names for the same thing. They hold equally promi- nent places in all systems of good nursing, and should be equally subject to the physician's prescription and control. This was the fundamental principle in the Commission's plan of Special Diet Kitchens. The plan embraced these points: — 1. The kitchen was a government kitchen, and formed a part of the regular hospital arrangements, — being at the same time entirely distinct from the general hospital kitchen. It was as directly and completely under the control of the surgeon in charge as any other depart- ment (if the hospital, and was mainly supplied from the hospital commissary. 2. The Christian Commission supplemented the exist- ing government arrangements, when necessary, with cooking utensils and supplies, — so as to secure the con- veniences requisite to facilitate the preparation of all kinds of hospital diet, and promptly to furnish all the stores needed to keep up to the highest standard the variety and quality of food issued, — thus bringing to the bedside of every patient, in homelike preparation, such delicate food as might be prescribed or allowed by his surgeon. .">. Each special diet kitchen was under the manage- ment of experienced and competent Christian women, 1 two or three in number, selected and sustained by the 1 The Fourth Annual Report of the Commission says, "The ladies working unobtrusively in our die! kitchens, and attracting little attention outside the hospital ground, have been to many soldiers the greater part of the Christian Commission. They have received a nominal compensation, hardly sufficient to meet extra expenses, ami sometimes thai has gone tor the purchase of delicacies
> eparate and secular governing body." This method, she says, "is, on the win ile. best calculated to secure good nursing fir the sick, and the general well- being of patients and nurses." Remembering the diflerence in ciroum-tanee- aml duties between the nurses of a public civil hospital and the diet kitchen managers of a general military hospital, it will be seen that the principle here stated governed the relation of the Christian Commission ladies to the hospital authorities. 2 Miss Mary E. Moorhead,of Pittsburg, was the first lady commissi id, and began the work in this large hospital, where, fur the greater part of the time, ■ in' thousand to fifteen hundred patients were fed from the special diet I iii In n-. Mi s M. had already done good service in several Eastern hospitals. If : going West is incidentally referred in in a letter from Mr. Weyman, of the Pittsburg Branch, written on the 17th of March. 1864, which thus fixes an im- portant dale in the dirt kitchen movement. " We send to-day, by boat direct. I pounds of stores and 20/100 I'rrt of I her, for an extra diet kitchen in Nashville. \>nl also Miss Moorhead and Miss Lathrop, two young ladies of our Committee, to labor three or four months in Nashville." Miss Moorhead, with the aid of friends in Pittsburg, built a chapel for the inmates of the Cumberland Hospital, at a cost of about $2,000. 670 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. East, — at Washington, Alexandria, City Point, Point of Rocks, Baltimore, etc. In all, between fifty and sixty special diet kitchens were put in operation, varying in the period of their continuance according to the exigen- cies of the service. They were maintained in the more permanent hospitals until the Commission closed its labors. Over one hundred ladies were engaged in their management. Not only was this special feature of tire Commission's work approved by the surgeons who were brought into immediate contact with it, but through their recommen- dation and the obvious value of the system it was endorsed by the higher officers of Government. By the action of Assistant Surgeon-General R. C. Wood, and of the Commanding Generals and Quartermasters of the Departments in the West, in the spring of 1864, Mrs. Wittenmyer secured free transportation for herself and assistants, with every facility for visiting and labor- ing in the hospitals within their fields. A little later the following order was issued : — Assistant Suhgeon-Genekal's Office, 1 LorisviLLE, Kv., August 1, 18B4. I To Medical Directors and Assistant Surf/eons in charge of General Hospitals in Western Medical Department: Mrs. Annie Wittenmyer, the Agent of the Christian Commission, has introduced a system of Diet Kitchens into General Hospitals, found to be very useful and practical, and has employed proper persons to attend to their arrangement. It is enjoined upon all medical officers to give her and her agents every facility. R. C. Wood, Assistant Surgeon- General, U. S. A. On coming East, Mrs. Wittenmyer met with the same cordial co-operation at Washington. Surgeon-General SPECIAL DIET KITCHENS. 671 Barnes, from whom the Commission received constant favor and assistance, gave his official approval : — SUKGEOS l I i mi 1 i i.' I ii ITT, October 20, 1864. NT, | I. I Mr>. A. Wittenmyer is specially commended to the attention and courtesy of all medical officers. J. K. Barnes, Surgeon- General. To this the President added his endorsement: — Let tliis lady have transportation to any of the armies, and pri- vileges while there not objected to by the Commanders of the armies respectively. Abraham Lincoln. October -•I', 1864. As the result of this official commendation the fol- lowing special order was issued from the War Depart- ment : — Special Order, No. 262. Was Department, Adjutant-General's Office, ) Washington, October 27, 1864. / [extract.] 56. Permission to visit the United States General Hospitals within the lines of the several Military Departments of the United States, for the purpose of superintending the preparation of food in the Special Diet Kitchens of the same, is hereby granted Mrs. Annie Wittenmyer, Special Agent United States Christian Commission, and such ladies as she may deem proper to employ, by request of United States surgeons. The Quartermaster's Department will furnish the necessary trans- portation. By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. Townsend, Assistant Adjutant* General. With official encouragement :md assistance so heartily and abundantly given, it is not strange that the diet kitchen service achieved the most gratifying results. 672 ANKAXS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. The selection of lady managers was a delicate and difficult task, for while there were many who were ready, from various motives, to enter upon service in the army, there were not many who could satisfy the high standard of qualifications established. The officers of the Com- mission and of its Branches and local committees, and the members of the Ladies' Commissions, j)resented the names of such ladies as might to them seem fitted for the work, but the final decision and entire control of all appointments were left with Mrs. Wittenmyer. Each lady appointed received the following manager's commission. U. S. Christian Commission, Central Office, "1 11 Bank Street, Philadelphia, 186 J No..— f M of has been duly appointed and is hereby commissioned a Manager in the Special Diet Kitchen Service of the United States Christian Com- mission, connected with the United States Military Hospitals. Chairman U. S. C. C. Issued at the office of the General Superintendent of the Special Diet Kitchen service, in ■ , this day of , 186 General Superintendent. Each manager was also furnished, for her guidance, with the following INSTRUCTIONS TO MANAGERS OF SPECIAL DIET KITCHEN'S. In accepting your present position of responsibility, you place yourself in the service and under the general care and direction of the United States Christian Commission ; and in the absence of the Superintendent you will be under the general direction of the Field SPECIAL DIET KITCHENS. G73 Agent of I lie Department, ami will look to the nearest Station Agent of the Commission for assistance and supplies. The following statements and requirements must receive careful attention, and be scrupulously observed : 1. Your work in the kitchen is to assist the surgeons in giving comfort and restoration to languishing men, who are in need of care- fully prepared nutritious food. 2. The order of the surgeon in charge is the law of the kitchens, as it is of all other hospital arrangements. 3. Under the direction of the surgeon in charge it will be your duty to prepare such articles of diet, and only such, as are ordered or approved by the surgeons in charge of the sick. 4. You will keep open to the inspection of the surgeon in charge an account of all the stores received from any source outside of the hospital, and at the end of each month forward a copy of this account to the Superintendent. 5. In addition to the monthly report, you will communicate with the Superintendent at the end of each week, noting any incident of interest you may choose, and giving a general statement of the con- dition and working of the kitchen. 6. Great good may be daily accomplished by bringing kind words and Christian sympathy and solicitude, with articles of comfort and necessity, to the cots of the sick and wounded ; but all such visits to the wards must be by the surgeon's permission, and in strict con- formity with hospital regulations. 7. A spirit of censoriousness and evil-speaking and intermeddling, unchristian anywhere, is doubly mischievous here, and dangerous to all concerned. First impressions of what can and ought to be done in a large hospital are very likely to need the correction which extended experience and candid observation are sure to give. 8. Neatness and simplicity of dress are intimately connected with your success. 9. A uniform Christian deportment, above the shadow of reproach, i- absolutely necessary. 10. Your work has its foundation in Christian self-sacrifice. The only possible sufficient motive for you is a desire to serve the Master and to do good to the suffering. For this you will be willing to forego, in a large degree, home comforts, and especially that of social B5 674 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. intercourse, in order to give yourself, with a single aim and with all your might, to the work you have undertaken. Annie Wittenmyek, Superintendent. I hereby pledge myself, as a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, faithfully, rally, and earnestly to fulfil the duties above enjoined. Manager. Dated at , tlii- day of , 186_._. The surgeon in charge of one of the general hospitals at New Albany, Indiana, gives the following very clear statement of the method of working in the diet kitchens and of their value. It was originally published in the Reveille, a little paper issued by the soldiers of the hospital : — One of the marks of progress in the treatment of our sick and wounded is found in the establishment of the special diet kitchen under new and better auspices. From the first the patients in a hospital were naturally divided into two classes, one embracing all who were able to go to the general table, and the other the remainder, or those who eat in the ward. To the latter the office of the special diet kitchen wholly applies. The Surgeon-General has given a "diet table," with the various diets, — full, half, low, milk, beef tea, and chicken, together with the articles and amount appropriated to each. This table is the result of very careful and accurate experiments made in several of the largest hospitals in the United States, and is fully sufficient, except in a few cases, for the patients. The articles required in these exceptional cases constitute what is called " extra diet." The Commissary furnishes, generally, an ample supply of the more substantial articles of diet, and it is only the more delicate and nicer articles which the Christian and Sanitary Commissions have found it necessary to furnish. The great stumbling-block, however, has been the proper prepara- tion of the food, so as to be palatable and nutritious to the sick. The men who were detailed for that purpose have been generally too SPECIAL DIKT KITCHENS. 675 careless and too little conversant with the arts of cooking to render just the service needed. Mrs. Annie Wittenmyer, of Iowa, appre- ciating fully this difficulty, undertook to remedy it. Her plan was eminently practical, and so simple that any body could understand it. It was just to take the < rovernment kitchen as already organized, with all its means and materials, with its detects and advantages, anil attempt to make it, through the aid of intelligent Christian ladies, what the kitchen is in a well-regulated household. Thus far the plan has worked admirably. The Christian Commission, with its noble charities, has given supplies of all articles not readily obtained through the commissary. Thus the small fruits, both dried and canned, with many things to gratify the taste and please the fancy of the sick, have been abundantly supplied. But the chief advantage is in the fact that ladies of the rarest attainment ami tic highest Christian character have given direction to everything apper- taining to the kitchen. Generally two ladies are assigned to each special diet kitchen. While, in all matters pertaining to the conduct of the hospital they are under the control of the surgeon in charge, they are in the service of the Christian Commission, and arc subject to the direction of Mrs. Wittenmyer, its authorized agent. Her instructions are so plain and simple that there is not' the slightest danger of interference with the arrangements of the hospital. The articles of diet sent to the sick are always furnished on tin- order of the surgeon in charge of the ward, and are never given to the patient, tinder any circumstances, without his consent. Thus one great source of trouble is avoided. As a rule, which docs not admit of an exception within the writer's knowledge, all articles furnished by the Christian Commission have been faithfully distri- buted. The Government supplies the ladies with rations, and there is not the slightest occasion for them or their friends to appropriate the stores to their own use. Besides, their high character is a suffi- cient guarantee. The stores are secure in their hands, — a circum- stance in itself of great consideration. Five cents would buy, many times over, all the stores of the Christian Commission which have been misapplied in this hospital, and this is true, we have no doubt, of many, if not all others, where these kitchens have been established. For some time the special diet kitchen of this hospital has been entirely adequate. Nearly two h Ired men have been suj ilied 670 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. daily with every variety of food which could be imagined or the fantastic taste of the patient suggest. A Diet Bulletin is issued every day to the wards, exhibiting the articles of full, half, and low diet appropriate for that day, together with a list of articles which can be ordered on extra diet. A glance enables the surgeon to see precisely what articles are on hand, and is his guide in making out his orders for diet. These are entered on printed lists made for that purpose, and consolidated for each ward by the commissary steward. This consolidated order serves as a guide both for drawing from the commissary and for issuing to the nurses of the ward. The greatest system and order prevail throughout, and it rarely happens that the patient tails to get exactly what his surgeon ordered for him. While this method increases the responsibility and adds to the work of the surgeon, it certainly promotes to a much greater extent the welfare of the patient. Attention to diet thus becomes one of his most important and most necessary duties. It should never have been otherwise. Health, strength, and life itself depend more upon the efficiency of the kitchen than upon the power of the medicines or the agency of external comforts. A mind which could conceive, and a will which could carry out, the designs of a plan of such vital importance to the hospital work, deserves and should receive the highest admiration. An inside view of one of these kitchens is well drawn by the lady manager in charge, in a letter to the Gene- ral Superintendent, dated Point of Rocks, Virginia, 1 1 In speaking of the diet kitchens at Point of Rocks, Mrs. Wittenmyer says: — " These kitchens were the most important in the entire service. Their fame was spread abroad, and many came from far ami near to see for themselves whether it were true that sick and wounded in a field hospital, within range of the enemy's guns, could be so well provided for and so delicately and systematically served. General Grant made a special visit to these kitchens, in disguise. He examined the diet li-t-. and stood by and saw the ladies issue dinner, and then went through some of the wards while the patients were eating. A soldier, mistaking him for a Delegate of the Christian Commission, called out, 'See here, Christian; won't you bring me a pair of socks?' The General responded, 'I'll see that you get them,' and passed on. I had often spoken to him of our work, and as often urged him to visit some of our kitchens, and I was very much gratified when he SPECIAL KIF.T KITCHENS. 1177 January 10, 1865. The kitchen had been established but a few days when the letter was written : — My Dear Mrs. Wittenmyer: I suppose by this time you would like to know how progresses the first "Special Diet Kitchen " in the Army of the James. Well, we think, all things considered, the kitchen is an entire success. The agents are quite in love with it, and purpose taking board with ns. — so much is it already in advance of their own kitchen. We moved into our quarters M lay, dan. 2d, and Thursday, the 5th, assisted in preparing the first dinner in our new kitchen, the issuing of which beggars description. The dinner for three hundred ami fifty, which consisted of heel' steak, potatoes, corn starch, pudding, bread, ami toast buttered, was pre- pared without any utensils lint the stove furniture, and cooked in the stoves without any chimney, ami with green pine wood, — the smoke almost blinding us. The carpenters were still at work in the room, putting in a window, making a store-room, tables, shelves, etc.; ami there were ten men to help us, beside a guard, — so you can imagine we were somewhat crowded. All we had to issue in were two wooden buckets ami a tin cup from each ward, and they looked more like swill buckets than anything else. For supper we had bread and butter, nicely buttered toast, farina, and excellent baked apples; and our new tin arrived just in time to issue in; but, as there was much confusion and no system, it took more than an hour to i>sue. From the surgeon down no one knew anything about this new order of things, and so it was up-hill business all round. The next day I attempted to bring order out of this confusion, and assigned to each man in the kitchen his work, ami Miss N. her especial oversight; had the issuing vessels labeled ; requested a diet list from each ward, and for tin' ward masters to come for the rations instead of the nurses, until they fully umlerst 1 the working of the new system, — all of which the surgeon promptly attended to; and at noon, Friday, instead of an innumerable company of nurses calling for rations, with a guard to keep them out of tin- house ami preserve order, four- told mi thai lie had visited the kitchens at Point of Keck-, had seen the ladies issue dinner, ami found that the patients in that hospital lived better than In- did, and that he was wry much pleased." 678 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. teen gentlemanly-behaved and manly-looking ward masters unani- mously presented themselves. I told them briefly our manner of issuing, and called off the list, and in aliout ten minutes all were served, and had left with their rations. It made the men who had previously been in the light diet kitchen open wide their eyes to see the rations so summarily disposed of. 'The next day 1 was sick and unable to go to the kitchen, and Miss \. called off the list for each meal, and they were issued in still less time, and without any appre- ciable blunders, and at least live of our men are not aide to read the numbers on the labels. Now the rations are promptly issued in less than live minutes. We have very excellent men in our kitchen, seven white and three black. They arc nil delighted with the new order of things, and say it seems very homelike. We all eat at the same table, — one or two taking turns to serve. The colored men at first positively declined, hut now take their places as requested, and we have a very pleasant, social table. Miss 11. has explored her entire field, and commenced systematic ward visitation. She has a large and destitute field, and the amplest opportunity tor doing good, and 1 feel assured she will be very use- ful. 1 feel that just such labor is more needed than any other, and no kitchen shall deprive me of the blessed privilege of entering into a field already so ripe for the harvest, ami laboring for Christ and lor souls. Meetings are held in the chapel every night, very fully attended and intensely interesting; many anxious inquiring souls, and many finding peace in Jesus. Do not understand that I mean to neglect the kitchen, hut 1 mean to find time, it' my health don't fail, to feed the soul as well as the body. If 1 do not, 1 shall feel that I am doing a small work. I never saw men so approachable upon thi' subject of religion ; they truly seem like little children. May God pour out his Holy spirit largely upon them, and grant them his salvation, is my constant prayer. 1 find Miss N. a "true yoke-fellow." We arc treated with great deference by all the medical officials here, and they promise to do all in their power to aid us, and make everything as pleasant as possible. We have only to make our wishes known, and whatever we need to facilitate our work is forth- coming. Indeed, now I begin to fear we shall he killed with kind- ness, instead of coldness and hard work, and if there is any failure SPECIAL DIET KITCHENS. 679 in the prosperity of the kitchen, il will !»■ wholly on our part; so you musl help us with your counsels and prayers, thai we fail not, and in nowise bring this department of Christian efforl into disre- pute. This lias been a trying day. All night and all day the rain has nunc down iii ton-ruts, in our quarters and kitchen, as well as iai[ of doors. Quarts of wain- run off our beds while we slept, and all our clothing had to be wrapped in rubber blankets, and i' us had to slay all day to keep the bouse from washing away, while the others were al the kitchen, which was even worse off Al il everything had to be dried, even to bed and bedding, and the kitchen was well-nigh over shoes w ith mud and water. Bui to night finds us in good spirits, our zeal undampened, though our work has been most thoroughly soaked. Affectionately, E. W. .1. The variety of food furnished in the diet kitchens, and also the amou*ri issued, are indicated in the ac< pany- Lng table, which shows the distributions made from the kitchens of sixteen hospitals during a single month. 1 1 1 1 will be of interest to compare with the table given on pp. 680 'I, the sub- joined exhibit of the daily diet issued fr the kitchen of Miss Nightingale to the sick English soldiers of the Crimea. In noticing the difference in the variety of articles issued, it must be remembered that the nearness of our troops, and the ease with which they could be reached, gave us a very great advantage in minis- in ing to them. /..-/<■■' tupplicd from F, VightingaWi Kitchens to the JSxtra-DUt JioUs of 'tlte U '' Bo Tack Hospital, Scutari, from January 1 ; to February IS, 1855. (From the Parllaniontai \ R< p irl of tho Sidney Mcrbort Commission, p I A Ll UPP Articles. Prom publla storoi. From private *ourccs. Bet i Tea Ohlt ki n Broth. \l|n\\ ROOl i i Water. Rice \\ ater Le n. 1. 1.-. Milk. Bit B I'mMingB. I'mi w Ine U ir ula. Brandy. Jelly. RggS. < in. kens, 80 pounds Beef. 28 Chlckons. 1 ■ Jll 12 Chi 1 i \ a Root 1 , 280 i 1 > n i: B SO " Hi, i Poi i Wine. i i u Isinglass, 1 12 Chit k< ne. 10 28 Ofaf< kons. 680 ANNALS OF Till'. CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Total Rations ->r each Article, S« o -+ o i- ?i« c x. a$h pa -+ dc a a m -t ~ o — 71 ic -- en m — >o -~? — i- r- - — j -t< z. :: :■: : - • - «: :i :; r :i / ..- :: i - .- — r. r. ~ x 71 W« i- — J, ifi _~ ■- OWfla - - [- -r * 71 -r -r ifl f- CO ■* oc i- ifl — iq j: '.5 - -i- -t n * i- ri i- —' ::' / .-:' ;:' >•_' ■.-; ~d ri r>' doV! ■ -' -' » es =:' N ■**^ o o i-i :: :i:i::r-r- >-<<-< r-> ■— cm Asjluni Hospital, Know ill.'. I., nil ■ - i- :s — ;: : 5 P3 « pa o ft* /' ►J 00 C w V, w -- w H O :- W 5 H a g a H 3 o & o lli>s|iit:il No. I'., NOW i m. . 1ml ■ -. '\ - -~ - . c? S " Si r t- ■ -f ri .l? 9 i~ QH«« Hospital No. 6 n." Litany, iiid. : -- ■ © c io oc . ■■-£ . = C 71 -S : : i- : i— r^ ir n ; Hospital No i. Sow Albany, linl. Floating Hospital, dew Lilian} , [ad, - ■ ' - -r -f. ~ _ 71 - , - DC j- ..7 -t- — 13 |- :<, 3§ ;3 S " >: : r ; ; eo Q eo ffi ; >- ; c i ■ m : : r-i*-w :«5 : : *»« Crittenden Hospital, I -1 !■ ■ |t 1 ■- r :: :: ■- / :;;:•.— : * ■ r-l 71 -T 71 — - | - n : ■ ~ i - : fc- • o Sedgwick Hospital, i ..in w Hie, Kj . . ■ • t:ri/i. : -f oc ■_- — lOtDoeH ;o ■i ;■ • ^ oaco oc o ^ : 7i S ' Brown Hospital, l.ml- IsviUo, Ky, Oai iii - l lorpa Hospi- tal, Qallatin, l.nii. ... ,: latin, i.'ini .,-. ,- „ ^ 71 ,- « ri •o a-. ^ i,~ -t- ■ ■ : DHCCWt- . O BO CD M i-J i-T ■ m' 7^ -f Si I- ■ j: r. J ■ r i.-7 .scti-o ■A CI ■ (~ i ^ :7 : t- t M M ■ 7 a 71C--.- - Xi-. S9 I-" 71 : . ; i - "" :i 7i - \ ■ . ■ - 1 - 1 - « : 3 i : : ?' : : ?I • ;S ■ ■ P08l H"| I. Bowl in ■ Green, K\. Hospital N". ■.'. Nash- ville, Ti-nn. ' - ■ . - — a: f- t T- :7 f - , ~ t ; : : C- S3 ; eg m : r. ^ d o : ^ ™ ^- ; -i ■• : ™ 1-1 C-i : — Cumberland Hospital) Nashville, iVmi. \a r. i - X' O M i- K :: 09 i lolumbton Hosptt ii. w ashlngtoD, D C. Second Dli i- Hoa pttal, Point "i Rooks, Va, 3S ■- tO 71 ■ ■ 71 Ift 71 77 E9K! i- N i h ■ Division Hospi- tal, 1'iMiii of Rooks, Va. CD COO • — :7 = !>* IS'* i- - i- i- rv en ■ . -*> .."7 IQ - © M :? .- : f i - ..- ; — - . - i i - : -j: 7i i- to : to - eetg -: i r r nil £ = r^ ^ H ^ C — S — — ^ -J C ^ J. J. J. f. J. i. / a >*£.&o£.>% SPECIAL HI ET-KITCHENS. 681 OiiOOaNC • " ■- — * - -* — " ' 3 - ■* • " " ' = i - © e$ © © x ■ t : : i - • - : -<.i i ■ i . - ... i --**■! ;i - <.- ..- :: . i i ■ ■ i i i - I i i .1 i to i ;: — : i . i , - ■ ■ . j - i - • • rA I- -t I . - - r- | ' ■ j \ ! ' I < ■ I i iss ■ ■ ■ ■ - i . -e -C — - i - ft -i .i -r :: -* c ^ - — ; © : s i - ■- — — - s. z :: ~ — M -i "M — r. I- PC * ft — — ti :: r. '- ifi I- — ■ -r > - 1 - ■ i taisoQ ; Kj : :-:i:::tiv . ■ : c — * ■ " i - . . ... : _ r .i - : - . - . t — : : . -. ■ : .r. a ps /. — :i ; ?i -t i — : : ?t £ .'■:—' I i - :i DO : ri c: .- ^- .- ?i ! Mi ISIS-.. _ C -. ££< <: i— : c « - ' ::::::: -r © 'fs : *N :: ' • ■ I . . : © • -p -p *i :■:«:©.©:••• r- : ■- r- : ; ; ?i ; c-j ^-c-i ; : : ; : i . .-' • t" * ■ ' f' PO ■■"' ' iH ■ " >—'-«• — ' *- : ^* : : : ' - ■'■ ' •" '- £ : la : ' •" : ' - — : : ". : a ' 1 1 35 : : : :-r»- N ocj, : ; *- ::»-"« : ■* : : : : : om :>-::: — ' ■ • • • » • ' ' r- --'p-' ... j i hS :S : cifi | ;i- ! m : -t : ■ * ~i ::©::©.:: > i ■ i < . - ■ ■ j: : :::: >.i :« t< =;::«:; P5 :; i-> ^ r- :: :» :~ -* ; — — ■ .... „; ,_* ■ to •• o • < . . i - : ; o * © © : : •- < . . . - - ;:•»::•# 3 ft i : :« : ;aor-H :©s : ■ : ; ti -. : jri ;©3 :•-■- : pi p^ m ■ p-T • ' • ci hpi "hpi * ' ' i - -I , - ..-;;.-.-; -f :: ~i r - i - ■■< -- i i - — 'M ■ ■ i- ■ ■ :: ■ • ' c: :: -■ • • • ?i : : : -f —-'.:: -' : ; " : . "' •■■; -' ; i-i © S ! ;©i-::::—::!00::>ra:M"*::©p-::: ■ ' ■ t-c-. : i-~ • .mi- ■ ..•.-?. ti ... . ! «S : : r- ; i- p-< : ; :' z ; : •— >— i- — — j i - ; p- : :i • ■ ■ ■ ?i ■ * " -t - ■ pJ • " 'r-'::' ■ ■ ■ *i ^.' • -r CD -■ :~ r : 1 ;a _, : i § r : N 28 ti jSsuSfi •SS j | i 1 ©■' ! ^ — : : : : i : m ::©:«:::::: ■ ■ O ■ 3 ■ 1 - Hill 1 i i £ I slffl S 2- S 2 o " - H T " !■=-, = B Hill ka? -■■ u C S 5 - £ rt 1 •= = ? - = ' ii- = r 7 - — c - * — -■:* = - r'i -.5 • "J - - —JB ■ . = ! £ ~ >."- = i V = ' '=' l - I mm 682 ANNALS OF TPIE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. The hospitals represent various parts of the field, East and West. A much larger exhibit might have been made, if it were desired simply to show the amount of food supplied, for at the time given there had beeu a great decrease in the number of patients in several of the Western hospitals, where the special .diet kitchens had rendered signal service. It is a comfort to know- that something was done, as these figures suggest, by the Government and people of the nation, to alleviate the sufferings and minister to the sorest wants of those who freely perilled health and life for the nation's safety. Subjoined is a list of the ladies who were engaged in the management of diet kitchens, with their resi- dences and the names of the hospitals in which they served : — LADY MANAGERS OF DIET KITCHENS. Mus. Annie Wxttenmvek, Davenport, Iowa, General Superintendent Miss E. W. Gooda].e, Sjico, Maino, Superintendent for tin- Mississippi Department. Miss M viiy E. Shelton, Burlington, Iowa, Supt rintendent for Ou Eastern Department. Mrs. E. 1'. Smith, Pepperell, Mass., Superintendent for tlu Cumberland Department, Kims and Residence. HOSPITAL. Mien, Mrs. . Des Moines, Iowa No. 6, New Albany. Allj Qg, Mrs. . , I ml Crittenden, Louisville. Atbon, Mrs. . Indianapolis No. 'J. Knoxville. Ami.. Mi- Martha IX. .III Col I. Nashville. Bancroft, Mrs. Caroline, . vt Columbian. Washington. Bei i.uiiii, Mrs. , .111 Webster, Memphis. Billings, Mi-- Lizzie, Providence Mt. Pleasant, Washington. Bloor, Mrs-Sarah, West Point, Iowa Gayoso, Memphis. Bonnoy, Mrs. Mary, Denmark, Iowa Little Rock, Ark. r.i.iv Miss Lizzie, Kenosha, Wis lackson, Memphis, Bray, Miss Salina, Kenosha, Wis McPherson, Vicksburg, Bin 1.. Mis. . Chicago. lackson, Memphis. Bui nell. Miss Mm-y. Milwaukee . Memphis. Chase, Mis. .Chicago. Colored, New Albany. Chilli. Miss D., Dyersburg, lenn Colored, Vicksburg. Clark, Mrs. Judge, Chicago Brown, Louisville. ('lull,. Miss . Chicago Brown, l,oiiis\iiir. Cole, Miss Ella, Medway, Muss City Point. Va. Cole, Mrs, Nellie, Sheboygan, Wis Campbell, Washington. CongiU, Mi" s.iiiir, Springdale, Iowa Field, Chattanooga. Conover, Mrs. . HI nington, 111 No. 14. Nashville. Conrad, Mrs. Rnth G . Keokuk, Iowa No, 1. Km. will,. Cooley, Miss Mary, South Doorfield, Mass Wilmington, N. 0. Cox, Miss — •, , Wis No. 1, Nashville. SPECIAL DIET KITCHENS. 083 Kami urn Bssidukci Hospjtu Culver, Wise . , Wis V, 2 , .,,„ ,.,„„„„.,. Cnlverr.Jll . .Wis No.2,Cuatta g« C ingkam, Miss Lizzie, Burlingt [owa Wilmington N C. D " ' '"'• Mra ' Ruth '' ago Totten, Louisville ''' > Ml ■ ' ■>' V <*"<>, Wll «,. |, .,,.,.. M,. | )is . DeHaven, Miss Lizzie, Pittsburg Cumberland, Nashville Edwards, Mi- S. J., , Mich Little Rock, Ail. Ensworth, Mrs. Electa, Chicag Colored, New Albany. Evans, Miss . Keokuk, Iowa No. 1. Knoxville. Facett, Miss Elmo, Salem, Ohio Crittenden, Louisville. Flagg, Mrs. , S H indeor, Conn Point of Rocks, Va. 1 Hrs . .Maine Steamer, Louisville. Ford, Mrs. Dr. , Ohio No. 3, Nashville, F °ulk, Mi- Lydia, Philadelphia v, [> Chattan a i ' i Miss Mattie J., Pittsburg Fiuley, Washington. Qithens, Mis. . n, .. m [ owa ___ Nll , ; N( , w Allllll , Hagan, Miss Kate, Bloomfiola, [owa I„, Holt, Louisville. Banrord, Miss Mary, Keokuk, Iowa N,,. i, Knoxville. Hanford, Miss Sada, Keokuk, [owa No. 2, Knoxville Happen Miss , , p« Point df Eocks, Va. ii,; nbrook.Miss Eunice, .Kansas Point of Rocks V» ""■'-•"■ Ml " *"«". ■ m Colored, Memphis Hogan, Miss Jennie, Muscatine, Iowa No. 1, Chattel e Hopper, Misi Maggie, Finleyville, Pa Point'ol Rocs \, ""-' ,! ' s " ™. Olivet, Midi Lookout Mountain. Houghton, Miss Mary, Dorchester, M.-,ss p oll • 1: ,„. ks v ,, Hovey, Mrs. Dr., Rochester, N. Y . Louisville. ' Howe, Mi- Frnm ona, Lowell, Mass Campbi II, Washington Howe, Mi- Lizzie.Lowell, Mass Sickle9] Alrx: , , jn Howell, Mi- , Pittsburg Floating, New Albany. Humbert, Miss Ma, v. Pittsburg K„„.,-v. Was -ton """ K 8 ' 5li8s I' 1 " ■'"•■ Pittsburg Floating, New Albany. Johnson, Mis? Inn i, Milwaukee Memphis Jones, Mrs E II [own Falls, Iowa jj , ,,, Kocks Va Kl1 ' Ml '■ .Ohio No. 2, New Albany Hi «« Si • , "I"" No. 2, New Albany 1 l,Mi ' ,| " 1 Mt. Pleasant, Iowa Post. Nashville Kingsley, Mrs. J.C.Cli veland, Ohio Slough, Alexandria Lathrop, Mi . Pittsburg Cumberland, Nashville. Little, Miss Mary, Pittsburg Finley, Waahiugtou >'■■""-". M- i..m„,.m, .Pleasant, Iowa No. 6, New Al j I Post, Chicago. M' 'ell, Miss Josephine, Mi. Pleasant, [owa Post, Chicago Mi Kenzio, Mrs, . Dubuque, [owa Webster, Memphis McQnceton, Mrs. II. i: , Wentworth, N. II Columbian, Washington Marion, Mi-s . , Ohio Colored, Nashville. Martin. Mi; N Li ni, Mt. Pleasont, Iowa Crittenden, Louisville M«rshnll,Mi Lucj i. Icestor, Moss Columbian, Washington Merritt, Mrs. , Clovoland; Obi: Pointof Rocks Va Mil i Mi No. 2, Nashville. Ml,ler ' MiM l:ii " No. 2, Nashville. M .rheail, Hiss Mary E., Pittsbnrg Cumberland N .shville Mu *. Mi8s E "e". Pittsburg No. 19, Nashville M " , '" ,v Mi • ii Chicago Mt . Reasant, Washington v ""■ Mi ' PI' ■• Uleghony City, Pa \,, ,, \,„ ,,,,„,, »»y<».MIi Haiti, M na,Ohio Pointof Bock Va "^'' '"■ M '" "' "■ "'>• "« ' "I Washington, Memphis P, ,,,-. Ul . . HI ;.„„„ ,„ | . ii ,. |;s Va Pitkius, Miss Jennie, Hartford, Conn City P I Ve Platl Mrs. 1. Q., , Kansas Foundry, Louisville. Potter, Mrs. , , •.. Y !-..,,,, ,„ Ro , ,.,, v ,, (iS I ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Name and Rkbidknce. Hospital, Pratt, Miss Ellen, Hillsdale, Wis Mt. Pleasant, Washington. Price, Mrs. ■—, , N. Y Gayoso, Memphis. Purington, Mrs. , Keokuk, Iowa Sedgwick, Louisville. Reaves, Mrs. , , Ohio Point of Rocks, Va. Robinson, Mrs. S. J., Crown Point, lud McPherson, Vicksburg. Sage, Miss Fanny, Kenosha, Wis McPherson, Vicksburg. Shaw, Miss Hun nan, Pittsburg Cumberland, Nashville. Shelton, Misa Amanda, Bui*liugton, Iowa Field, Chattanooga. Swan. Miss Eliza, Danville, Iowa Bow ling Green, Ky. Swarts, Mrs , , Ind Crittenden, Louisville. Tannehill, Mrs. Bell, Libertyville, Iowa Colored, Nashville. Thomas, Mrs. .t. F., Dubuque, loua Webstar, Memphis. Thompson, Miss Maggie, Detroit Slough, Alexandria. Underwood, Mrs. Mary. Muscatine, Iowa Brown, Louisville. Vance. Miss Louisa, Quincy, 111 Atlanta, lia,. and Madison, Ind. Ward, Miss Lizzie, , Wis Colored, Nashville. Wilkin-. Miss Curie, Keokuk, Iowa Atlanta. Wiiley. Miss Sal lie, Bloomfield, Iowa Joe Ilult, Louisville. Williams, Mrs. Catharine, Shell Rock, Iowa Brown, Nashville. Williains, Mrs. Mary. Keokuk, Iowa Washington, Memphis. Williamson, Miss Anna, Lawrence, Kansas Lexington, Ky. Wright, Miss Sophia, , Ohio West End, Baltimore. L A I> Y .MANAGERS BADGE. CHAPTER XII. PUBLICATIONS— LOAN LIBRARIES The work of distributing publications throughout the army by the Christian Commission possessed several points of special interest. More than any other part of their labors it furnished an index of the character of the soldiers; and the evidence was as gratifying as it was remarkable, that a large proportion of the army were men to whom serious and solid literature was a necessity. The record of these distributions also shows how promptly and fully the literary tastes and needs of the soldiers were responded to. The Commission, in this as in other respects, did not at first aim to be more than the forwarder of whal the people might supply, and the earliest shipments of reading-matter therefore consisted mainly of such second-hand tracts, newspapers, and hooks as were offered. Then I lie small publications of the Tract Socities were added, — some of them having been specially prepared for army circulation. The ordinary religious tract was extensively used, being easily sent and supposed to lie peculiarly appropriate. The American Messenger, the Tract Journal, sad the Christian Banner, soon recommended themselves, and large numbers were distributed. As the feeling grew that the soldiers deserved the freshest and best that i:- . 686 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN Commission. could be secured, tlie < ommission rcadil v adopted the system of making heavy purchases instead of relying upon donations, and in the autumn of L863 began the regular distribution of the religious weekly papers. It should be remarked thai from the beginning of the war these papers were sent to the army in considerable num- bers. Not a tew of the subscribers to them wenl into the ranks, and requested that their papers should follow them; sometimes the chaplain would make up a "club" from his regiment; the publishers generally gave notice that their journals would he furnished for soldiers al the simple cost of production, and many subscribers, in remit- ting pay for themselves, would add something for the "army fund."' But tin* action of the Commission greatly increased this army circulation, and the ablest organs of all the evangelical denominations were sent by tens of thousands into the hospitals and camps East and West. The same considerations that suggested this increase .if religious periodicals operated also to improve the quality of the books used. Less reliance was placed upon tracts and the smallest kind of publications, although they con- tinued to he abundantly circulated, and a better and more expensive class of works was purchased, alikefor the knap- sack and the library. Many of these hooks were printed and bound in substantial and attractive styles, and were every way worthy of the wide circulation and eager reception which they received. The following table will show the increase, from year to year, in the quantity and value id' publications distributed, and will partially indicate also the improvement in quality. The knap- 1 In the Bummer of 1868 the Commission was receiving, in iliis way, from 500 in i.iioo copies each of several <>i the leading weekly religions journals. PUBLICATIONS. 687 suck books, of convenient size for carrying in the sol- dier's pockel or knapsack, received this improvement more than any others. The monthly and weekly reli- gious papers were substituted for tracts. The "Silent ( lomforter" and works of thai class, — sheets of Scripture texts printed in large, clear type, — were placed in the hospitals, posted where the eye of the patient could readily see them as he lay on his cot. Libraries were established and maintained at the principal stations of she Commission, at military posts, in the general hospi- tal-, and on the naval vessels and river gunboats. STEABLY DISTBIBTJTION or PUBLICATIONS. ri i.i (CATIONS DISTRIBUTED, Bibles, Testament Dti Hymn and Psalm Books Knapsack Boolcs Library Books M i| iz - and Pamphlets MuiiiliU and \\ 01 kl v Papci i pagi Cash ralue "i i \ II Second feai Third Y.-nr. (four ni.iniii i, I02,56n 167.715 569 .94 328 B79 130,691 371,859 489,247 379,150 'l,., 1,254.691 4,326,676 2,611.028 : !.... 39,713 98,872 159," i [2 , ii.i 346,6 16 266,180 384,781 2,9 .1 (69 7,990,758 6,818,994 10,953,706 11,976,722 18,681,842 $69,919 I 1 $104,980 22 -ll.i. .7 1 26 $12.' 296.816 767,861 18,126,002 39,104,243 -1 08J 827 35 of this total amount, $299,576.26 represents the value of publications donated from various sources, and s;:! 1,751.09 the cost of those purchased b'y the Commis- sion, — showing that nearly one-third of its entire cash receipts ($2,524,512.56) was thus expended. 1 The pro- portion in which the several Branches of the Commis- sion participated in this distribution is seen in the fol- lowing table : — 1 li i- evident, from the facts and figures given, thai the Commission was enabled, by means of the heavj discounts granted to ii by the publishers and publishing ^>ririi,-<. to purchase i very large amount of reading-matter I'm- the mom y it expended. 688 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. DISTRIHUTI0X OF PUBLICATIONS FROM THE VARIOUS OFFICES. OFFICES. Bibles, Tes- taments, etc. Hymn iin.l Psalm Books Knapsack Books. Library Books. Uagazioes .iii.l Pamphlets. Religious Newspapers. Pages of Tracts. '.iTJ.'.Ol 8 .0 9,450 6.777 2.074 1,300 21 '..in 700 12,329 r.4.47s 7... 31 28,608 10.386 20,813 648,500 200 6,500 90,300 4.47.11 6,539.700 i ;,n 31.772 62,780 64,570 144.1HS 4:,n 1,990 17.600 6,876 449.223 1,600 2.354 1.12.-. 72,565 2,700 8,905 ,",4,4Sr. 150 1,734 2...... 44... 11 1,896 106,630 34,676 176 10,608,725 2.000 184,800 164 .- 202.820 66,550 737,653 2,163.910 6,000 18,569 ... 100 l.:;47.4:;s 175 608 1.286,700 S2»j4S5 8 .... 19,410,284 liiinm 5,160,300 Boston 696,420 Chi. ■;,-,, 214,130 170,341 vi in 3,280 500 108,866 45,259 32,036 45,445 256 59,221 633,1 83 750 25.619 3,200 460,224 126,066 179.420 220,684 273 9.023 35,438 1,215,806 2,42;:.:.7'.i 1. 36 l.i mi) •-'...;< >2 1,956 1 1,258 33,828 126 7.7" 22J ..,,._. 265, 5,970.234 146,928 148,920 2,086,589 St. Paul Troy Vti.ii 525 132, 1 109,200 7,615 333,079 1,000 ! l .. .. 2 100 460,384 Coufederate Army. 1.-HV..74S 1,370,953 8,308,052 296,816 767.861 18,126,002 39,104,248 To the foregoing list should be added 8,572 copies of the "Silent Comforter," "Green Pastures," etc., — hung up in hospitals, on vessels of war, etc. One of the most striking fads indicated in the above tables is the large circulation of the Scriptures in the army. Under date of Sept. IS, 1862, — about the time that the headquarters of the Christian Commission were established in Philadelphia, — Mr. Stuart wrote to the American Bible Society,' asking if it would grant to the Commission "what Bibles and Testaments they may need in their work." To this request Rev. Dr. Taylor, Corresponding Secretary of the Bible Society, replied on the 20th: — "Your letter can have only one response. Most cheerfully will our Committee and Board grant all that you require in your noble lahors." Thus promptly and cordially began a co-operation the results of which See p. si. PUBLICATIONS. 689 form a chapter unique and memorable in the history of Bible distribution. 1 The demands made by the Com- mission upon the Society were unprecedented, taxing and over-taxing its greal facilities for manufacturing copies of the Scriptures, hut the terms of the generous engagemenl were never modified, and the spirit and manner in which the service was rendered were no less admirable than the service itself. Under date of dan. 23; 1863, Dr. Taylor writes: "1 take pleasure in saying that this grant of 20,000 Testaments is the largest in value ($2,098.75) ever yet made to any one body by the American Bible Society; and you know that there are more where these come from." This grant was, however, frequently duplicated, and on several occasions it was greatly exceeded, once (April L':5, 1863) by the single grant of more than lf>0,<>00 volumes, valued at not less than $10,000. The various nationalities of our troops were well shown by the several languages in which these Scriptures wen' printed, — one request being for Testa- ments in English, German, French, Danish, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese. The Society was able to 1 Before this co-operation began the Bible Society had done a g 1 work among tin- soldiers. In pursuance of the resolution quoted at i>. 84, the Society desired " thai no soldier willing to receive one should goto the battle-field h ithouf a copy of tlic Word of God." Upon the passage of the resolution, therefore, May 2, 1861, "stejps were immediately taken by the agents and auxiliaries of the Society throughout tin' country, in supply tin- soldiers in companies and regiments at their places of rendezvous and in their encampments at tin- seat of war." Through tin-,' methods " it is safe to say that from 650,000 to 700,000 volumes were distributed in the army and navy" prior to May, 1862, ■• besides many thousands of volumes granted specifically, on direct application, for the supply of Boldiers and sailors." For the five months that intervened between the l-i of May ami the date of Mr. Stuarfsfirst application, above, the work of distribution waul forward through the same channels and at the same or a greater rate. See the Bible Society's Annual UepurU lor \S[V1 mid IS03. 87 690 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. manufacture books at the rate of from nine to twelve copies per minute of the working day, but was not always able, even at this rate, immediately to satisfy all requests. The rapid increase of distribution among the soldiers, and the opportunities for giving the Scrip- tures to the communities through which our armies moved, led to the appointment, in June, 1804, of three ( reneral Agents or Superintendents for the oversight of this work. Rev. W. H. Gilbert was appointed for the armies in Virginia, Rev. W. F. Baird for the armies in Tennessee, and Rev. S. H. Hall, d.d., for the Depart- ment of the Gulf. These Superintendents were chosen and paid by the Bible Society, but were also commis- sioned and furnished with subsistence, transportation, quarters, etc., by the Christian Commission. — thus act- ing officially for both associations and reporting to both. Besides the grants to the Christian Commission, amount- ing to 1,451,748 volumes, valued at $179,824.99, the Bible Society also sent to the army, through other agencies, not less than 574,512 volumes, — making their total issues for this purpose, during the period of the civil war, amount to the vast number of 2,026,260 volumes. 1 In addition to this, nearly 300,000 volumes 1 In a private note, dated October 17, 1S67, Rev. Dr. Taylor says, after attest- ing the figures above given: — ''But to these figures must be added the great supply made by our own auxiliaries to regiments going out from almost every State. This we cannot now exactly get at, but it was very large : and it was a work most nobly done throughout the war, chiefly at the cost of those patriotic Societies. I give some items, so far as reported, but the returns are very incom- plete: Maine, 11, -24 volumes; Vermont, 10,000; Rhode Island, N.K17; New York Bible Society, 300,000; New Jersey and Delaware, 70,000 ; Ohio, nearly 200,000; Illinois, at least 150,000. Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, anil other states were constantly engaged in this work. It is safe to say that over three million* i.'l.OOO.OOO I nf riihwiiw of the Sacred Scriptures were distributed to soldiers and sailors and prisoners of war during the conflict." PUBLICATIONS. 691 were granted for the Confederate armies and citizens of the States in rebellion, — the government, with the hearty approval of the military authorities, permitting the transmission of the books through the lines of the army, and the Christian Commission furnishing its facilities of transportation for the same purpose.' It is gratifying to know that the receipts of the Bible Society increased in proportion to the increase of demand upon its benevo- lence, — so that its income for the year ending with April, 1865, was $677,851.36, an excess of $1 L7,272.76 over the previous year, and the largest annual income in the history of the Society by $236,045.69, being also $241,804.44 more than "the receipts of the year L860, when all the Southern States co-operated with it." Its immense army work was therefore more than met by the increase in its receipts, so that the ordinary opera- tions of the Society were not interfered with. It is worthy of special remark that this vast and un- paralleled army work closed with the close of the first fifty years of the Bible Society's history, — a fitting con- summation to a memorable period, — a period during 1 In tlii- connection, the subjoined letter will he of interest : — M i ;ii phis, .1 ugusi s . 1864. Mr.. Geo. II. Stuart, Chairman !'. S. C. C, Philadelphia, I' 1 . ■■ /' Sir: We have received, in g 1 order, the twelve boxes marked R.A.M., and numbered from 18967 to IS978, containing lii.'J">^ Bibles, Testaments, and portions ol Scriptures, for the Memphis and Shelbj County Bible Society, — it being the first instalment of 50,000 volumes, donated bj the American Bible Society, for the Confederate \nm and citizens in' the Southwest. Please accept the thanks of our Society, for forwarding this grant, from New York t<> Memphis, in so short a time and freeof cost. We have wagons engaged, and a permit IV General Washburn, to send these Scriptures through tin- lines to-morrow. Yours, very truly, Ethel II. Porter, Presidi nt. 692 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. which the receipts of the Society were $10,434,953.74, and its issues 21,409, DOC. volumes. It was proper, as well as highly significant, that two such institutions as the American Bible Society and the United States Christian Commission, — one indicating the permanent and growing vigor of American Christianity, and the other indicating its power to meet promptly a great emergency, — should be found in hearty and effective co-operation. The final correspondence between the two bodies is here given. Under date of March 12, 1866, Mr. Stuart wrote to Dr. Taylor as follows: — Rev. and Dear Sir: We have tried all along in these years of war to make regular and suitable acknowledgments of the donations of your Society, through the Christian Commission, to the army and navy; but I am unwilling to close the record of our Commission without attempting once more to express our gratitude and admira- tion for the munificence shown by the American Bible Society, in the measures adopted for supplying our national defenders with God's Word. Not an application made by us was ever refused, although single requisitions have often been presented for more than 50,000 copies at a time; but on the contrary, an immediate and most generous response was invariably given. The Christian Commission was gladly welcomed as the great agency for Bible distribution in the army, and the spirit of harmony and co-operation which charac- terized your and our Society was a forcible illustration of that Chris- tian love which " hopeth all things, believeth all things, and enduretl) all things." By successive grants during the war, your Society has passed over to us for distribution to soldiers and sailors, of Bibles, Testaments, and portions of Scripture, 1,451,748 volumes, valued at 8179,824.99. Such appropriations by one benevolent organization for distribution through the operations of another have hitherto been unknown in the history of benevolent institutions. The result has been most happy. Without this co-operation of the Bible Society our field work would have lost half its power ; and on the other hand, if the Christian Commission had been organized for the PUBLICATIONS. 693 express purpose of Bible distribution, it could nol have accomplished it better. In this feeling of gratitude on the part of the Commission our agents and Delegates in the field unanimously agree. We have been gratified by the expressions of surprise which have come from them, on their arrival in the field, at the abundant and free pro- vision of the Word which they found waiting their distribution to hungry men. Doubtless one of our Delegates in the Army of the Cumberland, a pastor from Massachusetts, expressed the prevalent, feeling among them when he said : " I have contributed to the Bible Society all my lite, but I never knew its worth and power till to-day. The first collection I shall ask from my church will be for that Society, to buy Testaments for soldiers, and the next will be for the Christian Commission to send men, to hand them over." Our work in hospital ami camp has ceased ; but the results of the efforts which in your name we were enabled to make will never cease. There are few homes in the land where a Union soldier has thrown off his knapsack without bringing back from the war a book from your press; and to many a home has the pocket-worn Testament found its way as the only memento of him who will never return. It is the heirloom in the family henceforth. May this seed so widely and happily scattered spring into abundant harvests, and may the Ameri- can Bible Society go forth in the confidence, affection, and generous support of the people, to put a copy of God's Word in every home in the land, and send it in every tongue to every nation of the earth. Very truly yours, Geo. II. Stuart, Chairman. Upon the receipt of this letter, the Board of Mana- gers of the Bible Society passed the following resolu- tions : — "Resolved, Thai this Board rejoice with the members of the Chris- tian Commission, in the completion of their arduous, self-sacrificing, patriotic. Christian work, and that they have secured for themselves and the Gospel they represented tic gratitude of our country. Resolved, That this Board regard ii as a must gracious providence that such an agency was raised up in this time of our country's exigency, ami that this Society was enabled to avail itself so largely 694 AXXALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. of its aid in sending to our noble soldiers and sailors on the battle- field, in the camp, and in the hospital, the Word of Life. Resolved, That the whole history of the Christian Commission, constituting as it does an unparalleled illustration of Christian love and benevolent devotion, should be written out and preserved for the instruction of, and as a model to, our children and our children's children. Resolved, That the Corresponding Secretary transmit to the Presi- dent of the Christian Commission a copy of these resolutions, and express to him our wishes for his speedy restoration to health. This action of the Board w s enclosed, according to instructions, in the following letter of Rev. Dr. Taylor: — To Geo. H. Stuart, Chairman U.S. C. C: My Dear Sir: I have the honor and pleasure of transmitting the enclosed response of the Board of Managers of the American Bible Society to the very eloquent letter in which you have officially ex- pressed the final acknowledgment of the United States Christian Com- mission, of the grants of Bibles and Testaments, and portions of the Sacred Scriptures, etc. In addition to this formal action of the Managers, it is my great pleasure to state, that during the years of wasting war which by the grace of < rod called your admirable Com- mission into existence, and gave it scope ami power, it has been a great providential helper in our specific Bible weak in the army and navy of the United States. The large grants which were confided to the Christian Commission were justified only by the emergencies of the conflict, ami by the faithfulness and intelligent zeal with which it discharged the weighty responsibilities of this part of its high calling. Our correspondence and co-operation have always been conducted upon the most liberal principles of Christian service for the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. It has produced warm attachments, enlarged liberality, expanded efforts, and the deepest human and Christian sympathies. More than all, God has blessed the work from its inception to its completion. Its course has been eminently providential, as its widest issues are unseen and eternal. The closing of this great instrumentality was well adapted to its object, history, and results. Your noble work is done. Its record is PUBLICATIONS. 695 immortal. No old, effete system of faith and morals could have given birth to your organization. It was distinctively American and Christian, the offspring of enlightened patriotism and of our New Testament religion. And it was fitting that as it sprang from the Bible, it should make the Bible its chief object of distribution. No. such organized system of Bible distribution ever existed before among the armies or nations of the earth in times of war. Every one of your 5,000 Delegates and representatives became to a greater or less degree a Bible distributor, among men who were hourly ex- posed to danger anil to death, in camps, ships, and battle-fields; in hospitals, forts, and sieges; on weary marches, and on sens, and bays, and rivers, and ports. Your touching letter of acknowledgment does not overstate the blessings of this good work. And now, we thank you and all whom you represent for every volume of the Word of God which you have carried to every soldier and sailor of the Union. We thank you for all that you have transported to the Con- federate troops, or given their sick and wounded and dying men, upon the battle-fields and hospitals where they were stretched. For your Christ-like ministrations to tens of thousands of prisoners of war, of both sides, we thank you ; and for the noble completion <>f your great work in all its varieties of labor and of love, the whole nation and the Church of God bless you from henceforth. Accept also, my dear sir, for yourself, as Chairman of the Chris- tian Commission, the assurances of our heartfelt respect and desires for the full recovery of your health during your visit to the Old World, Yours, very truly, W. J. R. Taylor, Corres. Secretary. To the foregoing it may be permitted to add the fol- lowing testimonial from the Jubilee Memorial of tin American Bible Society, prepared for the Board of Managers by Rev. Dr. [saac Ferris, Chancellor of the University of New York City: — To the Christian Commissi composed of volunteer laborers from the ministry, the college fraternity, the theological seminary, the counting-room, the home-circle, the sons and the daughters of tht I ')!)(') ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Christian family, we and our country cannot be too emphatic in our thanks, as theirs 'was a work of the highest Christian benevolence, ministering to the bodily comfort of our brave soldiers, but especially to their soul's welfare, in circumstances of great danger on the battle- field, and under various exposures and hardships in the camps and hospitals, on the land and on the sea. Through this channel were distributed 1,451,748 volumes, valued at $179,824.99. Theirs and ours has been the joy to know that the most blessed fruits accom- panied and followed the united Christian services. The whole con- stitutes a model chapter in the history of evangelical benevolence. The wise ordering of Providence enabled us thus to reach many a man who had not been within our reach before, to revive the heart of many a true Christian soldier, to impart comfort to many a dying brave, and, with the survivors, to send many a copy of the Scriptures to homes in the wilderness, and these made dearer by the circum- stances in which obtained. 1 Tn March, 18(33, the British and Foreign Bible Society, London, forwarded to the Christian Commis- sion, in a very courteous manner, for distribution in the army, a donation of 15,000 volumes, valued at $1,677.79, — accompanied by the assurance that additional ship- ments would be made if desired. These volumes were "portions" of Scripture, — as the book of Psalms, or a single Gospel, etc., — very neatly bound in tlexible covers, in small and convenient form for the pocket. They were widely distributed as presents among- the officers and others, and were highly prized. This gift from the London Society, at a time when political feeling ran high in both countries, was an assurance 1 An agent in charge of the Commission's work in the Department of North Carolina wrote to the New York office: — "Copies -of the Bible and Testament were thankfully received. Great numbers of men, returning to their distant homes, applied for these, and for a few small religious books, for the 'children,'— showing clearly that through months and years of hardship and exposure to manifold temptations they still retained fond memories of home." PUBLICATIONS. 697 that there was not wanting, among English Christians, a true sympathy and appreciation for us and our struggle. This fact was frequently alluded toal the time, and with must happy effect, in the various documents and addresses put forth by the Christian Commission and its repre- sentatives. Mr. Stuart was afterward permitted to ac- knowledge in person this generous act of international Christian courtesy. 1 1 See [>. 281. The duty on these books was remitted by the Secretary of the Treasury. In February, 1865, Mr. Robert Mackenzie, of Dundee, Scotland, wrote an admirable tittle book, entitled America and Her Army. lis object, as stated in the Preface, was "to sketch the remarkable measures which America lias adopted for the benefit of her army, with the remarkable results which have been gained." The operations of the Sanitary and < Christian Commissions, and of other agencies, were briefly but very clearly stated and Illustrated, in a spirit v( must cordial appreciation. "There has been nothing mere unusual," says Mr. Mackenzie, "in the case of the war now raging in America, than the care which the Northern people have exercised ever their army. It can scarcely fail to introduce a new era in the history of the soldiers of Christian states. America has impressively reminded us of the duty we owe to the men who 6ght our battles. The noble Lesson she has taught cannot he too carefully studied." Special emphasis was given to the distinctively religious work among the soldiers. The 1 k was pub- lished, in an attractive style, by Messrs. T. Nelson & Sens, of Edinburgh (see p. 531), and gratuitously circulated, as a testimonial of their sympathy for the American cause. The following letter from OUT Secretary of State to Mr. Nelson fitly characterizes this generous action : — Separtuent of St ite, i W isiii\eni\, March 23, 1865. I My Dear Sir: Our excellent Consul al Liverpool has sent me two copies of a tract, America and Iln- Army, written by Mr. Eobert Mackenzie, which i< pub- lished by you, and, as I understand, gratuitously, as a contribution to the cause of the United States in the present unhappy civil war. I pray you to accept my thanks for this manifestation of your sympathy. The book is so genially written, and yet with so much of truth and reason, that it can well be accepted h\ our countrj men as a compensation for columns of reproach which have been poured upon us by the enemies of freedom and humanity in England. I have taken ureal pleasure in laying one of the two copies before the President of the lulled States, and I am requested by him to add his thanks to those which I have expressed in my own behalf. 1 am, dear sir, very faithfully yours, Mr. Thomas Nelson, London, William II. Seward. 88 G ( J8 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. It should also be stated that the American and For- eign Bible Society, New York, sent into the army, through various agencies, donations of Scriptures to the amount of 93,707 volumes, valued at $16,863.92. 1 The American Bible Union, New York, likewise circulated in the army about 50,000 copies of the New Testament, in whole or in part. 2 The Roman Catholic version (Douay) of the Bible was gratuitously distributed to some extent, by the Christian Commission and other agencies, to those sol- diers and sailors who preferred it. The Commission would not appropriate funds for this version, but distri- buted such copies as were donated. 3 The two American Tract Societies, at Boston and New York, early gave attention to the wants of the army, as has been elsewhere stated. 4 Both co-operated cordially 1 Mr. I". D. Ward, Secretary and Treasurer of the Society, furnishes these figures, in a letter dated October 23, 1867, and adds: — "Our grants may have been more than this, but this is as near as I am at present able n> learn." '-' Mr. Wm. D. Wright, Assistant Treasurer of the Union, under date of ' tctober 25, 1867, gives this as an approximate statement, — the Society not having kept a very accurate account of their army distribution. s Messrs. Lucas Brothers, of Baltimore, from whom the Douay Scriptures were procured, in a letter dated October 23, 1867, say: — "We find that we furnished positively for panics for the Christian Commission 8,480 Testaments; and about 600 more of the same, which we have good reason to believe were for the Commis- sion : and also about 400 Bibles, which we believe went to the army, but are not positive, as they were furnished through other dealers." Among the eiders from the field on file is Due from Mr. Cole, asking for "two thousand Douay Testa- ments," for the Army of the Potomac. An approximate statement of the entire circulation of the Scriptures among the soldiers, during the four years of the war, would therefore be as follows, in accordance with the above figures: — American Bible Society 8,00(1,000 vols, Americnn and Foreign Bible Society. '.i:..7<>7 " American Bible Onioii 50,000 " i See pp. 84, 85. British ami Foreign Bible Society.. 15,000 vols. I iv Version 9.4S0 " Totnl i.li •• 1-7 >m1- PUBLICATIONS. 699 with the Christian Commission, making to it donations of hunks and papers, and selling at the lowest prioes. In .June, 1864, the Boston Society adopted the following resolutions : — I. That the Committee on Charities be authorized to grunt to the Christian Commission the publications of this Society, to such amount as the charitable funds will permit, provided that said Commission shall purchase an equal quantity of said publications at cost. -. That if the Christian Commission shall accept the above pro- posal, and thus distribute our publications through the army, our own independent system of distributions shall be discontinued. This proposal was accepted by the Commission, and was substantially adhered to during the rest of the .... The grants received from the Society were valued at $6,846.53. ] The Tract Society at New York i arrangements with the Commission that were favorable tu the efficiency of both associations, proposing, in Sep- tember, 1862, to furnish gratis as large an edition of the monthly American Messenger as the Commission could circulate, and constantly making also large donations of its various publications. Its total grants to the Commission, in books and papers, were valued at $19,886.03. 2 1 ' toe in-tan f extraordinary despatch, creditable alike to author, publishers, Mint printers, is worthy of record. The Tract Society in Boston proposed publish- ing a little book, entitled " Mustered Out," to be distributed among the soldiers, as ;i parting gift, :ii the time the main portion of the army was discharged, in the spring of 1865. On advising the Christian Commission of the fact, a large order was at once forwarded by telegraph, for the emergency was pressing, I >r. Kirk wrote the book in two days; il was put in type and stereot\ ped in two days; printed in two days; bonnd in i daj : and shipped to the field in just '.i i ' i. from the lime the manuscript was commenced. See above, p. 223. • Both the Tract Societies did the principal part of their*army work through special agencies and laborers of their own, — their field missionaries maintain. 700 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Other Societies, as the American Sunday-School Union, Tract Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church, Presbyterian Board of Publication, Presbyterian Publi- cation Committee, American Baptist Publication Society, Protestant Episcopal Book Society, Massachusetts Sab- bath-School Society, American Reform Tract and Book Society, New York Sabbath Committee, etc., etc., with many private publishers, gave their co-operation, and were desirous of a share in the patriotic and Christian work of furnishing the army with attractive and whole- some reading. Several of these Societies adopted the principle of making donations to the Commission, in publications, equal in value to its purchases. Frequently a denominational Society would receive from a contri- buting church or ecclesiastical body a donation in money, sometimes of $1,000 or more, with the request that its value in publications be sent to the Christian Commis- sion. Private publishers as well as Societies often sold their books to the Commission at a discount of 50 per cent, and authors of valuable works remitted the whole or a portion of their cojiyright. In the monthly and weekly religious newspapers dis- ing, however, intimate intercourse with the Delegates and army agents of the Commission. From statements kindly furnished by the officers of the two Societies, it appears that the Society at New York "prepared and printed during the war, for the army and navy, 247 distinct works, of which in the aggregate G,57(i,ll00 copies were circulated; it also furnished for the army, in four years, 2,799,000 copies of the American Messenger, and expended above $200,000 for the spiritual welfare of the soldiery." The Society at Boston "published for the army, of books of all kinds, 910,227 copies; tracts, 2,156,500 copies; papers, 4,685,400 copies;" and expended upon their army work "$105,715.23, — not including the publications sold to other institutions and to individuals, and excepting also their ordinary grants, many of which ultimately reached the army." PUBLICATIONS. 701 tributed, all the evangelical publishing societies were re- presented and all the evangelical denominations. About sixty different papers were included in the list. Their ordinary circulation was taken as the standard of the popular demand for the several journals, and the Com- mission divided its total purchases among them in the same proportion, — so that the paper which circulated most widely at home was circulated most widely in the army also. This method recommended itself as the fairest for all concerned, and as likely to secure for each soldier the religious journal to which he had previously been accustomed. The figures show that the total newspaper circulation by the Commission lose from less than two hundred and fifty thousand copies per month in 1863, in which year it may he said really to have begun (the previous distributions having been mainly donations of second-hand papers 1 ), to more than one million five 1 The < lommission did not begin the purcltase of weekly religious papers until the latter part of 1863, — the first shipment from Boston being in the last week of October. Previous to that there had Keen large donations and some purchases of the monthly papers of the several evangelical publishing societies, and weekly papers had also been donated in considerable quantities, through special subscrip- tions for the same, as explained on p. 686. In what way a g 1 work was done by various local societies is shown in the following circular, issued by the Young Men's Christian Association of Troy, N. Y., in February, 1863, ami distributed in all the families of the city : — Fur the past two years, the prisoners at the jail have been supplied weekly with religions papers that have 1 n gathered ft* families a- soon as possible alter linn- read. These papersare usually collei o-'l "a Tuesday, and distributed t 1 1 . - following Thursday oi Sunday, — thus affording to tie iv •■ in priBon " quite fresh religious reading-matter. The prisoners sIh.w a great deal of grati- tude I"' them, ami .ire \. i\ eager to gel them. Families too i r to subscribe have been supplied in lie* -aim manner u rj now propose to Bend thesi papers to soldiers whom we know will appre- ciate tin ni. The Cnininiitee nt tin. Christian Commission offer t<> pay tin' postage on papers so -int. It you have not ilread*, such uso, or any use for your weekly religious paper, we do herebj solicit it tor -in 1 1 purposes, f i anj have had and now have tie benefit of .mum- papei ait r you have done with it, we dosiro not '-• change its course, as there ore undoubtedly enough i city for us that are Dot now in use. Please hoe the papei read] for tin' messengoi when he comes next Tuesday, if you conclude t tcede to this request; if not, please hand him this noto and he will not call again. r02 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. hundred thousand copies per month in the beginning of I860. 1 It would he of great interest, if it were possible, to give the names of places at which this vast amount of reading-matter was distributed. 2 The list would include 1 " The number of periodical!! sent out from the New York office alone amounted, not unfrequently, to from one hundred and sixty thousand to two hundred thou- sand copies per month." — Memorial Record, p. 2S. -' PUBLICATIONS SEXT TO THE FOLLOWING POINTS. FROM THE TEX- TUAL OFFICE, PHILADELPHIA, FROM JANUARY 1 TO DECEMBER 31, 1S64. DESTINATION. Washington. D. C Baltimore, Md Annapolis, Md Pittsburg, Pa Cincinnati, Ohio Louisville, Ky St. Louis, M11 Nashville, Tenn Nev, York, N. Y Cairo, 111 Springfield, 111 Knuxvillr. Tenn Martiusburg, Va Yorktown, Va Johnson's Island, Ohio l'.n kersburg, West Va Newark, N.J Fort Delaware, Del Chicago, 111 Chester, Pa York, Pa Wheeling, West Va Wilmingt Del Carlisle, Pa Boston, Mass Harrisburg. Pa Camp William Penn, Pa.... Chambersburg, Pa Portland, Me Elmira, N. Y New Albany, Lad Harper's Ferry, Va Alexandria, Va Philadelphia Hospitals, Pa. Indianapolis, Ind Pottsville, Pa Gettysburg, Pa San Francisco, Cal Fortress Monroe, Va Kock Island, III Miscellaneous Totals Scrip- tures. 56.710 1S.331 is;, 5.S95 58,89V 22,; 112,933 •Jll.TS'.i 200 1.0T0 1,864 40 461 200 S 18.300 1,945 8 25 305 ■:;i" 200 100 5 50 3.032 780 7 3.71S 150 s ,303 Hvnin and Psnlm Books. 100,870 25,005 4,736 6.806 2,086 1,706 45.305 8,494 2,575 200 700 72S 649 2,-iu 2,295 3,651 3,551 1,136 1,844 25 1,600 2.31 in 1,800 320 600 1,100 600 265 11,919 4,712 700 200 200 100 4.361 50 10,460 821,014 377,756 32.122 65.0S3 317,1161 198,785 1,060,621 283,608 2,626 17,951 5,100 10,196 35,853 4,433 5,603 62 1,750 :;.'. 622 158.715 4.47.". 6.453 8,181 945 2,593 5,500 11.434 4,286 4.723 10,880 211,91111 3,250 1 6.57 s 8,452 67,703 17,840 179 2,774 1,600 154.4411 3,900 149,112 339,595 254.018 3,940,209 25,690 Library Books. 6.074 3.S0S 221 1,941 1,031 50 1,582 425 59S Mnpnz's aud Pam- phlets. 32.051 10,187 134 18,300 9.943 :;.: 19,117 750 2,100 25 182 12 33 110 225 100 150 301 1.011 • 1 5112 13.750 334 26 2.S45 24s 1.950 130 22.475 200 200 200 58 67 121 22S S5II 100 20 622 7,650 100 ll'>2 1.0011 Religious News- papers. 939.319 246.733 85,832 139,943 300.291 93.142 569,958 634094 400,270 37.003 1,750 900 25,019 11.168 64.215 111.919 22.102 85,348 233.596 lii 103 21.408 24.111 12,183 11,089 81,645 18,980 18,691 1,525 2,050 36,631 16,888 22.203 1,184 137.561 4S.52S 5.530 12,800 85 29.257 12.636 158,324 227,443 4,491,664 6,509,25' Paces of Tracts. 1.979.272 227,233 75.430 42,250 416,618 145,759 1,556,724 192,955 98.565 12.525 3,11.91 111 121.09S 15.166 3V-"" 500 105,734 272,"27 '.I.4S4 13,659 28.780 12.440 10.92'- 12.964 15.410 46.610 35,088 25u 47.630 99.635 156,990 47, 51 ( 1 4.1 300 4H0 99.415 2 8 28 227.S74 Silent 1 ! forter. 803 310 24 ,lii 1,070 720 60 35 15 30 HI 2"1 3 8 12 16 6 31 10 30 SO 105 3,1198 PUBLICATIONS. 703 nearly all the encampments and posts of all the armies. But the data for such an exhibit arc not preserved. The preceding table gives a very partial indication, showing the destination of the publications from the Central Office alone during the single year of 18(34, — being about one-half of the distributions for that year. The eagerness with which this reading-matter was received, and the advantages resulting from it, have been repeatedly shown in the narratives and incidents heretofore given. To make an adequate statement would require the publication of the greater part of the Dele- gates' ami agents' reports, and then the story would not be wholly told. A few additional illustrations will, however, not be out of place. As to the general results of the distribution of the Scriptures in the army and navy, the Annual Report of the Bible Society, for 1864, says : — The deductions drawn in our last Annual Report respecting the power and value of the Scriptures, and our wide distribution of them in the army and navy, are fully confirmed by the experience of another year. The demand for the Scriptures continues unabated. The treatment of the Bible or Testament by the soldier is declared, by men who have seen much of the armies, to be, as a rule, reverent and proper. On this subject, one of the most experienced Delegates of the Christian Commission, in an address to the Board of Mana- gers, gave this testimony: — "Alter much observation, I am led to the belief, that the soldier's Bible receives better care than must other things lie "possesses. 1 have never seen a copy of the Scriptures wantonly destroyed or thrown away. I have seen a torn Bible on the battle-field sprinkled with blood, that no soldier would take (it seemed too sacred I, and it was buried with him who once possessed it. 1 have been astonished t<> find in field hospitals so many copies of the sacred Scriptures hidden away in the bosoms of poor wounded fellows, when everything else had been sacrificed to the Moloch of war. 1 704 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. have known a soldier to fling away everything, even to his last shirt, and preserve his Bible. I firmly believe that, instead of receiving worse treatment, the soldier's Bible received from your noble Society is, as a general rule, better cared for than any other book or mate- rial that he possesses." 1 While this testimony is true as a general rule, it has some exceptions, but they are comparatively trifling. As to its effect upon the discipline of the camp, the intellectual and moral influences of the Word of God, there is a stream of uniform and satisfactory evidence. But the spiritual and everlasting results, who can estimate ? We know that thousands of soldiers have been hopefully converted to God by the power of truth during the past year; that many backslidden Christians have been restored; that extensive and powerful revivals of religion have been and are now in progress in portions of the great Armies of the Potomac, and of the Cumberland, and the Tennessee. . Large and small Bible- classes have been regularly maintained, and religious services have been thronged night after night by thousands of our soldiers. On the other hand, the wickedness of the wicked seems to have become equally developed, and the powers of good and of evil are thus brought into sharper conflict for and against the truth, and for the possession of the immortal souls of the hosts that stand with their lives in jeopardy every day. Amid these strange scenes, the Bible, by the power and demonstration of the Holy Spirit, is doing its appropriate work. From some of the naval vessels also we have had good tidings. The great inference from this part of our Report is this, that we have every encouragement to sustain and intensify this vast distribution of the Holy Scriptures; to secure to it every possible degree of system, responsibility, and power; and to make it more than ever a work of faith and a labor of love for our country and our God. Scarcely a Delegate could be found in the whole number who would not fully understand and confirm Mr. O. W. Fay's testimony, as he writes from Cairo, 111., under date of March 22, 1864: — 1 Address of Rev. Geo. J. Mingins, Bible Society Record, February, 1S64, p. 19. PUBLICATIONS. 705 We shall soon need our stock of English Testaments replenished. We also need, renj much, pocket Bibles. Those sent were very acceptable indeed, but we are now entirely out, as we usually are. Soldiers" prayer books are needed, — the small ones, about the size nt' the Soldiers' Hymn Book, containing prayers and hymns. If the Christian brethren could see such anxiety, — amounting almost to rudeness, — as I saw yesterday, when distributing Testaments and hymn books and prayer books, they would rejoice to be permitted to supply such a demand. There were half a dozen hands extended at a time to receive a Testament, and for prayer books. There was an actual strife as to who should have them, because I had not enough for all Dr. T., at the hospital, said he wished he had some Scripture passages, printed in large, clear type, to post over each man's head, on the wall, also to post on the wall opposite the door, so that it would " meet the eyes and thrill the heart of the patient as he enters the ward." He seemed so anxious about it that I told him I would try to get something for him. Where such requests come from the surgeon of a hospital in which the nurses are Catholics, I think they should be heeded and answered. Quito similar is the earlier evidence, in another Held, of Rev. F. N. Peloubet, of Oakham, Mass.. who was a. Delegate among the troops in Virginia, in 18(52. He writes : — 1 have always had a deal of pity for tract distributors, — poor martyrs! — with the whole world for their inquisition, and refusals, and scorn, and indifference for their instruments of torture, who Moil and toil till evening gray, At thankless work, fur scanty pay. But in the army I have learned a " new song." I have seen men hungry for reading, — hungry as if they had been more than the five days in a moral " Starvation Valley," without even the five hard- tacks for the five days. I have seen men look earnestly, pleading with their eyes, "(live me one grain of corn, brother," as they saw little tracts given to those near them; I have seen them gather S9 70 every one of the fifty-nine vessels composing the Mississippi Squadron." The Committee at New York supplied, on an average, about two hundred and forty ships with monthly packages of reading-matter. The naval officers rendered every facility for this distribu- tion, and manifested a cordial appreciation of it. An example of many is this letter from Commander Rodgers to Mr. Stuart: — U. S. Steamer Iroquois, 1 Baltimore, March 26, 1864. I Dear Sir: I beg leave to acknowledge the receipt of the valuable box of religious reading, sent by you from the United States Chris- tian Commission, for the use of the crew of this ship. I beg to PUBLICATIONS. 7 convey through you my grateful sense of the value of this gift, and I trust that, with God's blessing, it may exercise a very salutary influence upon those for whose benefit it is intended. I shall have much gratification in looking after the careful use of these bonks, and I offer you my warmest thanks for the means of doing good which you have placed in my keeping. I remain, dear sir, with great respect, Your obliged and obedient servant, C. R. P. Eodgehs, Commander U. S. N., Commanding U. S. Steamer Iroqwnt. Rev. J. Stockbridge, a chaplain in the navy, gives this lively sketch of the way in which the papers fur- nished him by the Christian Commission satisfied the cravings of his men : — We have in this hospital from three hundred and fifty to three hundred and seventy-five patients, — the number changing daily. Every Sunday morning I place within the reach of each patient a paper of his own denomination, if evangelical. In passing through the wards special care is taken to supply the comparatively few who are confined to their cots. Come with me, and you shall see how it is done. Here is a patient, suffering young man ; leg nif at the thigh; — bursting of a Parrott gun did it. "I have a variety of religious papers here; to what denomination do you be- long?" ".Methodist, sir." "Where from?" "Massachusetts." "You want the Zion's Herald" I band him a copy; it takes him right home; and if the person who paid for that copy could see the smile that lights up the poor fellow's face, he would say, "My money has paid me a hundred fold." Here is a lad of sixteen, very feeble, the son of a widow. " My lad, what kind of a paper do you want?" "Baptist." "Where are you from?" "Philadelphia." "The Chronicle is your paper;'' and I hand him one, which he accepts with thanks and a smile. Here is a gray-bearded sailor, ripening for the sickle of the great reaper. "Shipmate, what kind of a paper will you have?" "Metho- dist." " What Slate are you from ?" " New York." 1 hand him a copy of the Advocate and Journal. He lays the paper in hi.- lap, 710 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. and, while getting his spectacles ready, he thinks of the time, a good while ago, when he read that paper in the presence of the old folks at home, amid the pattering of little feet, and the quick step of Mary in the room overhead, who is "putting on her things" to go to Sun- day school. He tries his spectacles, hut the reading is blurred. He takes off his glasses and looks at them ; nothing is the matter with them ; it is the tear that is in his eye. Here is a stout young man, lying on a cot. " What kind of a paper will you have, my man?" "Baptist." "Where are you from?" "Boston." I hand him a copy of the Watchman and Reflector. A wide-awake young man runs up to me, and says, " Have you got a copy of the Congregational id?" "You are a Yankee." " Exactly." I hand him a copy of the paper his mother is reading that very day. Here is a Presbyterian from New York State. " Are you Old School or New School?" That is evidently a poser for him; he don't know what to answer. " Do you take the Evangelist, or the Observer, at home?" "Oh, the Observer." I give him a copy, and he is soon " under the trees" with Irenreus. Some men take a fancy to the Christian Intelligencer, because it displays an American flag at the head of its first column. Miss Rankin, a missionary of the American and Foreign Christian Union, at Monterey, Mexico, sends the following suggestive incident in her own experi- ence : — Monterey, Mexico, August 10, 1S65. Observing a requisition for facts connected with the operations of the Christian Commission, I felt constrained to mention one, among many others, which shows the superior value of that institution. In the spring of 1865 I left New Orleans for Mexico, on a United States transport. Before leaving I obtained a quantity of reading-matter from the office of the Christian Commission in New Orleans, as I knew that a company of United States soldiers were to be carried upon the transport to Brazos Santiago. Besides the soldiers, there were also on board quite a number of officers, belonging to different PUBLICATIONS. 711 departments of the service. I reserved my reading-matter until the Sabbath, believing it would then he more likely to benefit the men. Accordingly, when that holy day dawned, some twenty-four hours' travel from the Brazos, I waited with earnest hope for an opportunity to circulate the books and papers in my possession. The opportunity soon occurred. Two officers came into the cabin. One said to the other, " Shall we have a game of whist?" At once I placed upon the table several of the latest religious papers, which were seized with such avidity that I felt sure the game of whist would not be played that day at least. I then took as many of the small army books ami papers as I could well carry upon the upper deck, where were more than one hundred soldiers, sitting and lying in perfect listlessness, without seeming to know how to occupy themselves. Several of the men, observing me, came forward, and very respectfully and thank- fully took the books and papers, and distributed them among the rest. I never witnessed more delight manifested than by these men in obtaining periodicals with which they had been familiar in their far-distant homes. One would say of the Messenger, " This is the paper my mother always took and loved." Another, " The New York Observer is an old friend." And almost every one had some expression of gratification. Thus a blessed Sabbath was saved from desecration, and the Gospel brought to bear upon the minds and beans of these men in a way, we may hope, which will bring forth fruit for eternity. Melinda Rankin. Reference has several times been made to the labors of the Commission among the colored troops. They were supplied with elementary school books of all kinds, and also with periodicals, 1 Scripture portions, and other publications suited to their circumstances and attain- 1 Rev. I. P. Warren, of the American Tract Society, Boston, in a c mnica- tion already quoted, gives these facts respecting one paper alone: — " In January, 18C4, was begun the publication of the Freedman, a small illustrated monthly paper, designed to aid in teaching tin- colored people, both in the army and else- where. Of this there had been published, up to December, 1865, I.I'.'.".. copies. It i- believed that fully three-fourths of these were distributed to colored soldiers or their families." 712 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. ments. Not a few of them could appreciate the read- ing-matter furnished for general distribution, and none showed greater eagerness or gratification than they. To be able to read the New Testament was to these new- made men a marvellous acquisition, and to own the Book itself was to secure an incalculable jarize. A Delegate writes: — The colored soldiers, many of them, are trying hard to learn, and some of them succeed far beyond what could be expected. It is not an uncommon thiug to see them go forth in the morning, to a twenty- four hours' picket duty, with a musket in one hand and a book in the other, — a fact full of significance. They prize the books and papers provided for them by the Christian Commission very highly, and are very thankful for them. They often say that there must be mighty good folks up in the North, to send them down such nice books and papers for them to learn out of. A chaplain, in acknowledging the receipt of some reading-matter for his regiment, says: — The primers and spelling-books for the contrabands I will distri- bute at my earliest opportunity. I intend to start a school myself among them, if my duties will permit, — and I think I can arrange them for it, — and I will report you my success. I gave primers to boys employed in the regiment. One of them, the colonel told me to-day, lay by his fire until midnight, trying to decipher his letters. I gave another to a bright youngster, and a few minutes after I saw him sitting on a stump, while a little drummer-boy was teaching him to read. This record would be far from complete were it to omit "Lizzie's Letter." It will best explain itself, and is as follows : — Philadelphia. April 17. 1S63. My Dear Soldier: I send you a little Testament. I am a little girl seven years old. I want to do something for the soldiers who do so much for us; so I have saved my pocket-money to send you this. PUBLICATIONS. 713 Although I have never seen yon, I intend to begin to pray that God will make and keep you good. Oh, how sorry I am that you have to leave your dear mother. Did she cry when you bade her good- bye? Don't yon often think of her at night, when you are going' to bed? Do you kneel down and say your prayers? If I were yon, I would not care it' the other soldiers did laugh; God will smile upon you. I am sorry, very sorry that you are sick. I wish that I could go to nurse you. I could bathe your head, and read to you. Do you know the hymn, "There is a happy kind?" I hope you will go to that land when you die. But remember, I will pray that you may get well again. When you are able to sit up, I wish you to write to me, and tell me all your troubles. Enclosed you will find a postage stamp. I live at No. — North Ninth street. Good-bye. Your friend, Lizzie S . The letter was addressed, with the Testament, bo " Some Sick Soldier," and was sent to a hospital in Nashville, where it was given, by a Delegate of the Commission, to a soldier in the convalescent ward of Hospital No. 8. He was the "first soldier who rose to request prayer for his salvation, in the first meeting there after the precious Testament and letter arrived in Nashville." A few days after he wrote to Lizzie the following reply : — Nashville, Tknx., April 21. 1863. Mil Dear Sister Lizzie: I received your kind letter from Mr. C. I. M. A beautiful present indeed, and I trust it will be one of the means of converting others, as well as the receiver. May Cod bless the giver! You have done a good work. Continue to pray, dear sifter, and God will answer you. lie says so in his word. My dear mother is in the grave. It is nearly eleven years since 90 714 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. she died ; but she died happy, and I trust I shall meet her in heaven. 1 will try and pray for myself. Have been in the hospital four months, but am now nearly well ; will lie able to join my regiment to face the enemy ; and if I should fall on the battle-field, I may have the blessed assurance of meeting my Saviour in peace. Yes, " there is a happy land." May we meet in that happy land. I do not think that my fellow-soldiers will deter me from serving my Master. There are many others here that his Spirit is striving with. I expect to go home to see my dear friends once more. Am very thankful that the privilege is granted, and I trust we shall have a happy meeting. Dear Lizzie, I must close. May God bless you, is my prayer. Write me again. Address your friend, S L N , Fwrtll Mi the Arm; and Navy and in Sin;_;I<- Numbers. Cfa. iliuteu- States n tf- The formation of libraries requires a more detailed statement. In prosecuting this work Chaplain Thomas became directly connected with the Christian Commis- sion, as General Library Agent, and the movement em- of the Army, and by other officers, and the request was strongly endorsed by Rev. E. P. Smith, the Commission's Genera) Field Agent 1 See i'. 1st. LOAN LIBRARIES. 717 braced the preparation of libraries for all parts of the army, under what was known as THE LOAN LIBRAE'S SYSTEM. 1 This system, in the form finally reached during 1864, may be most clearly explained under the following particulars : 1. Arrangements were made with the leading pub- lishers, almost without exception, by which their hooks were purchased at one-half the retail price. They agreed to this in January, 1864, and, although the cost of printing and materials increased very greatly during the year, they did not advance their prices. From their Catalogues, about one hundred in number, an army cata- logue was compiled by Chaplain Thomas, including all the books deemed suitable for army libraries, with the prices affixed. In choosing books these rules were ob- served: "None but the best works; none but the hot, most suitable and cheapest editions; secular works as well as religious; utility rather than variety." One house in each of the principal publishing centres, — Bos- ton, New York, Philadelphia, and Cincinnati, — consented to act as agents, for receiving, packing, and forward- ing, without charge, all the purchases made in their respective cities. These houses were, Gould & Lincoln, Boston; ('has. Scribner & Co., 2 New York; Ash- 1 Chaplain Thomas has kindly furnished the materials for tlii- account of die Loan Libraries. The system was suggested to him by the plan of the American Seaman's Friend Society. How generously ami heartily these men bore their gratuitously-assumed imr- den i- -riii in ;lii- incident After acting for some months, receiving and dis- tributing orders among twenty-five publishers, receiving packages, paying bills, ami packing ami shipping bunks, Mi'sm-s. Sii'ilimr A Co. il>\ Mr. Armstrong . 718 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. mead & Evans, Philadelphia ; and Poe & Hitchcock, Cincinnati. 2. The Government supplied cases for the libraries. The first sixty were made by order of General Thomas, subject to the approval of the Secretary of War, — the Commission being meanwhile responsible for the ex- pense. The Secretary approved the order, and granted a requisition also for two hundred and forty more. 1 Each case was three feet square, and eight inches deep ; corners dove-tailed and iron-bound. Shelves for books,. 18mo, 16mo, 12mo, and 8vo, with the spaces between the shelves respectively six and a half, seven and a half, eight and a wrote to Chaplain Thomas, under date of Sept. 10, 1864: — "It has been con- siderable trouble to us; yet we are willing to do twice, yes, ten times, as much for our brave soldiers; and only wish (the writer's wish) that we had shoulders bii ad enough and arms strong enough to crush this cursed rebellion, and bring or send every soldier to his own fireside. As it is, you and they have our morn- ing and evening prayers, and our further offer to do all in our power." 1 The Government and military authorities showed very great interest in this matter. Chaplain Thomas's plan was formally commended by twenty promi- nent general army officers; and his request for the book eases was endorsed by the Surgeon-General and the Quartermaster-General, — " to cost not over six dol- lars each." Among the tokens of approval received was the following: — Headquarters Army of ttie Cumberland, "| Steamer Tuscarora, Tennessee River, Jan. 11, 1865. J Chaplain J. C. Thomas, General Reading Agent, U. S. C. C. : Dear Sir : Your communication of the 31st ult has been received. Your sum- mary of the successes of the library and magazine enterprise during the past year is most gratifying to General Thomas and myself, as it must be to you who have been so deeply interested in it. To you the praise is due, and I am directed by the Major-General commanding to tender you his thanks for the untiring energy, even when afflicted with a depressing disease, which you have displayed in this noble enterprise. That the God of armies may long keep you in health and strength to continue the good work, is the earnest prayer of the writer. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Wm. D. Whipple, Briy.-Gcn. and Chief of Staff. LOAN LIBRARIES. 719 half, and ten and a half inches. Two panel-doors, each with good lock and key. Case stained, except door- panels, and varnished. Door-panels marked: U. 8. u. s. cs* isr '4* tffr XST U# COMMISSION COMMISSION LOAN LOAN */BRA^' ^/fiRA^* 200 (or other ii timber.) 200 3. Each library contained 125 volumes, — standard popular books of history, biography, poetry, fiction, science, religion, etc., — all appropriately labeled and numbered, and neatly covered and numbered on the cover. On the inside of the door to each library (out- side, therefore, when the library was opened) was a catalogue, in large type, with the names of the books arranged alphabetically by authors, and numbered, with additional numbers and spaces up to 160. Additional catalogues on cards were also provided, for the special convenience of patients who were unable to go to the library. 4. The library, as thus prepared, was not given to the hospital, camp, vessel, or other place of its deposit, but loaned, subject to the control of the Commission, and to 720 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. be returned to it when no longer needed. The library was confided to the chaplain, surgeon, or other responsi- ble person who consented to act as librarian. He was required to sign a pledge, promising attention to his duties as librarian, a faithful care of the books, and promptness in sending monthly reports of the condition and use of the library. Each library was provided with a register or record book, so arranged as to preserve, with little trouble, a complete history of every volume. A LOAN LIBEARY. The register contained 172 pages, — 160 for regular entries and 12 for incidental memoranda. The number of each volume on the catalogue corresponded with the number of its page in the register, so that, for example, the record of volume 20 was on page 20. The catalogue being also prefixed to the register, made the reference easy. Each of the 100 pages in the register was divided into eight columns, with these headings : Xame, Regi- LOAN LIBRARIES. 7-1 incut, Company, Ward, Bed, Drawn, Returned, Re- marks. From this register were made up the monthly reports, — showing how many times a volume had been drawn during the month, or that it had remained in the library, or that it had been Inst, with such illustrative incidents as were deemed valuable. The monthly re- ports were forwarded to the (ieneral Library A»vnt, who thus knewthe exaet location and condition of everv library. Upon the method here indicated there were prepared 215 Loan Libraries, containing the full number of 125 volumes each. Besides these there were 70 Libraries of half the size, containing 75 volumes each, — making in all 285 Libraries and 32,125 volumes, at a cost of not less than one dollar per volume. Of the large Libraries, IS.") were made up of new books specially purchased for the purpose.; the remaining 30 large and all the 70 small Libraries were made up of valuable second-hand books, given in response to various appeals. The Loan Libraries were widely distributed through the army. — in the general hospitals, at the permanent posts, and large forts, with the regiments, on vessels of war, at the principal army stations of the Commission, etc. They were highly valued, and contributed much to the comfort and profitable employment of the men. Extracts from a few reports are here given, as showing the use and care which the books received : — Hospital 14, Nashville, Tenn. Reporl for -November, 1864, by Chaplain \V. Allington. Library 1. Volumes drawn, two hundred ami thirty-seven ; volume? lost, none Scarcely a book has been read without some commendation being expressed, and the reader, when asked, has never railed to utter his high appreciation of the 91 722 ANNALS OF Till! CHIIISTIAN COMMISSION. entire programme of providing such valuable aids for the improve- ment of time. The "Philosophy of the Plan of Salvation" has especially been appreciated; "Lossing's History of the United States" has been frequently called for; "Irving's Sketches," "Shak- speare's Readings," "Cotta Family," "Goodrich's Library," and " Sargent's Temperance Talcs," have afforded intense delight. The library has begotten content, lessened rambling through the city, created devotional feeling, increased the number of our religious services, and attendance thereon ; in short, renders hospital life, to all concerned, more happy, and duty more pleasant. Library 11. Volumes drawn, two hundred and eighty-nine; volumes lost, none. Marked improvement in the social lite and general deportment of the patients and attendants of this hospital, has taken place since the introduction of the libraries. We have more correspondence between soldiers and their friends; more social purity, less boisterous and rude conduct. The mental and moral conditions of the men have been revealed, and not a few scholars, Christians and gentlemen have been found beneath the humble attire and title of " private." Library 9. Hospital 1, Chattanooga, Tenn. Report for January, 1865, by S. J. Hutchinson, Librarian. Volumes drawn, two hundred and ninety-three: volumes lost, three. " Boanlnian's Higher Life," •'Haven's Mental Philosophy," "Uncle Tom's Cabin," "Smith's Greece," " Liddell's Rome,'' "Student's Gibbon's Rome," "Student's Hume's England," "Student's France," "Thayer's Pioneer Boy," "Goodrich's "Works," and "Sargent's Tales," are most highly appreciated. Library 70. Second Wisconsin Cavalry, Alexandria, La. Report. by Chaplain B. L. Brisbane. For June, 1805: Volumes drawn, one hundred and eleven; volumes lost, none. The library is a tine col- lection. It is doing immense good. It is the best thing the Chris- tian Commission has done for the service. Every regiment should have one. It has a deep and abiding influence, — intellectually, morally, and spiritually. For July : Volumes drawn, two hundred ; volumes lost, none. The longer we have the library, the more useful we find it. For August: Volumes drawn, sixty-one ; volumes lost, none. Have been on the march to Hempstead, Texas. For Sep- tember: Volumes drawn, three hundred and thirty, volumes lost, LOAN LIBRARIES. 72-\ seven. Some men in hospital were sent off and discharged, without returning, some of whom carried off books. We are very thankful for the library. No estimate can be made of the good it is doing. For October: Volumes drawn, one hundred and twenty-nine; volumes lost, three. Some books carried off by deserters, or others. Library has already well paid for itself. A number of souls lately converted* A good work going on in the regiment. I ascribe much to the library. Library 99. Hempstead, Texas. Report for September, 1865, by Rev. S. J. () range, Agent Christian Commission. Volumes drawn, five hundred and twenty-five; volumes lnsl, none. The library has been invaluable to the men. They all praise bhe selection of books; and so interested were they that I turned the library over to First Iowa Cavalry. For November, by Chaplain J. S. Rand: Volumes drawn, three hundred and seven; volumes lost, three. At the end of October we were on the march to Austin, Texas. The soldiers have employed much of their time in reading, instead of card- playing. We have a chapel tent, in which we keep the library, and have prayer-meetings every evening. We have some clear conversions. Library 228. United States Flag Ship New Hampshire, Port Royal Harbor, S. C. Report for October, 1865, by Chas. Wiener, Librarian. Volumes drawn, two hundred and sixty-six; volumes lost, one. The library is having a good effect. It is lessening pro- fanity and intoxication. Many of the Libraries were lost in the final breaking up of hospitals, camps, etc., at the close of the war. But more than fifty permanent forts and posts through- out the country, and twenty-live United States war steamers, were supplied, and the libraries were still in use by them at the beginning of 1867. 1 The system of the Loan Libraries, like the Diet Kitchens, originated in the West. To the Western 1 The superintendence of the Loan Libraries is at present (November, 1867) in the hands of Rev. E, P. Smith, now General Field Agent of the American Missionary Association, 53 John street, New York. 724 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Branches, — St, Louis, Peoria, Cincinnati, Indianapolis, etc., — belongs the credit of first appreciating the move- ment and making to it the first appropriations. But it was rapidly extended to the entire army. The tables show the distribution of a much greater number of bound books than were contained in the Loan Libraries, — the figures being 296,816 volumes. Some of these were circulated as a part of the ordinary reading-matter of the Commission ; others were in libraries, large and small, formed at the several stations of the Commission during all the years of its labors. Frequent appeals were addressed to the public for valu- able books for the soldiers, — special efforts being made in this direction at the holiday seasons, — and these were responded to with more or less liberality. The books thus secured were variously used, — some being put into Loan Libraries and the rest otherwise distributed. There were circulating libraries in some of the chapel tents, as has been already noticed. 1 The library work of the Commission, in a systematic form, was one of its latest movements, but none was more thoroughly appreciated by the soldiers, and it was very fruitful in permanent good. 1 See p. 327. CHAPTER XIII. SUMMARY. It remains now to present a recapitulation of the operations of the Christian Commission, as detailed in part in the preceding chapters. This may be done most clearly and satisfactorily in a scries of Statistical Tables, which shall embody the principal facts and results in their proper relations. A careful examination of these Tables will show a few slight variations in the different exhibits of the same items. Prior to 1864 the Commis- sion did not preserve such complete and ample records of its operations as it did subsequently. Hence in sum- ming up its work it was necessary to estimate a few of the items for 1802 and 1863; and different estimates, with varying data, being made for some of the same items, there are slight discrepancies in the results. But the fact that the Commission performed more than four- fifths of its labors in the years 1864 and 1865, when the records kept were minute and accurate, is an assur- ance that any discrepancies from estimated items must be very slight and unimportant. Moreover, all the principal items which involved pecuniary responsibility were carefully recorded from the beginning, as tar as was possible. It was found impracticable, in the following tables, to keep the receipts from the offices on the Pacific Coast 726 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. distinct from those of the Central Office. The former are therefore included in the latter. But the sums received from the Pacific Coast are separately mentioned in the Treasurer's Reports for 1864 and 1865, as given on pages 218 and 289. (See also page 355.) TABLE I.— CASH RECEIVED AT THE VARIOUS OFFICES. OFFICES. 1862. Drills. /■ 1863. Hem. cts. 1864. polls, cts. 1865. Polls, crs. T,,l.il. Polls, etc. 23.354 2,82] 2.977 3,790 4,060 270 2,261 635 16 7) tl (in :;.i 29 130,400 Ti.'niiVi 78,220 "?jkS 8,182 21.010 3.47S 2,376 703 436 68,542 1,654 22,732 3,201 6,108 93 76 34 61 29 22 75 51 M 95 49 15 .Ml lis SI 29 472371 10.560 49,572 164.952 26-450 47,389 4S.938 53 499 8.235 26,042 3,332 23,418 L8.133 3.701 102,747 49.::;:: 92,705 11,862 7,659 :: I 4.911 7,725 3,959 21,206 <3 .Ml 99 13 97 OS 71 S2 411 liu .Ml 79 77. 12 mi 41 "7 08 el 7,1 45 s4 28 234.119 7.127 19.744 5,100 4,551 S4.947 9,884 13.540 73.072 38.396 6,937 10,681 1,895 10,000 i 132 3.819 8868 6,432 4.9:;:; 116,337 12.729 42,896 7,968 10,328 2,433 :;:;.;,;,:; 34.689 2.202 2,930 7.597 3.197 49 7,1 99 in 44 HO 4:; in 28 11 :>:> 19 S3 29 111 22 67 7:; 1.5 311 33 M -7 „, mi 17 llll 53 M 71 43 7(i Slid. 1 S.5 17 9ss ill si, 75,1 si 5,100 00 4.5.51 44 330 9-7 86 Brooklyn Buffalo 49.1.-5 SI 68,458 81 134,2 112.906 97 15 17:: 11 1'. troil 411,292 34 7 604 94 33,418 ■J9.199 7.957 S.S9S 6,432 49:;;: 277,627 84,026 .s.5 94 I ouisville 99 73 15 4? 111! 158,334 37 11,169 35 22,190 50 10,092 "7 33,553 17 81,962 55 St. Paul 6,213 54 10,656 32 11.557 16 25,039 02 56 40,160 358,239 1,297,755 828,357 2.524.512 Note to Table II, Column XI. Expenditure of Balances on Hand, January 1, 1866. The Balance at the Central Office is being used in the manner explained on p. 229. The Balances at the Branch Offices have been or are now being applied in accordance with the suggestions given on pp. 228, 229. Either under their own superintendence, or through the local Young Men's Christian Associations, or through some other Society, or by a Special Committee, these several Auxiliaries appropriated their unexpended funds for general work among the soldiers, as in the later operations of the Commission in Texas and on the Western Plains, or for disabled soldiers in their own communities, or for soldiers' families, or for some similar purpose. In one or two instances the surplus was added to the Balance at the Central Office, in the hands of the residuary Trustees. SUMMARY. 7l'7 las^sssss X - « , - - , _ ,- - -1 - - , . -- - /■ - - 1 ■ - 1- -^ . 1 -i-i •- ■; / W s - - 1 : : - 3 "" 1-1 ' 7 ■: . r : i s _' - • iftOcinooKG i -> : i :~ : : SQ 3) t- i D - -r 3 -.; -f j rffii :: ■; :i /. ; ;:r/ ;c cci-x« -/- - iR 6C rr -f :: — •- -f -r ~ -r i - :~ a -— -. ~ -.■-•-. : : : . - j s. i - 7 . _ Ti 71 -.7 — oC >- :: r ■- ■* d i ' 1-7171-;.': -7 ■- s s -.-, f- J. :: 7i 7i t- -f r-i r. -, r; -Jr Z. - a ^i'-'- r -- s : 3T : S r i- ;0(. — = 1-71 !°t I T~f © O 00 i -. ri ■- i— i c -* w -# r 7 7i — : : 7i - — ; r: i- -t :■-'::•-. Z f : - r-i ■:::i t::i- • — — : 7i c : « /^ m 71 - : (oo ■ ec 7i Ai-iH : >- ~ . - 1 05 M - : -*■ ■ " : : : . ■ *. i - : : : -t t-~i : tH a « ■ r. 7 1 j- — 7t r- — £ :u5 i - • • -f " * - z — :ooocMi»oeioocnii : • i - :l T- 7 — 7 ■ . -J: I — — t^ - / 71 : *- I >~ ± s s — -r 71 •— * 0C l-H Ci - - i - 7 1 /: /■ . / -i^i- 7t i-i»o« : : i~ -r 7» id — ' 7i ; ;r- r: :: : :-;Mf ; : : -. -^ i- : : : ~_ -f = : : 7 i . - — : : ;QO 55 ; ; ■'-.■- ■ i- i 3 i ■7-l H — -2 ■2 £ m i -r - :7 :: — r — . : r r ^ - 1 - ■ — C 7 71 7 7. - ■" t -7 .7 71 : )ttCB«C9t-itDr>ei r 77 i - : ■ - ■ 7 : : - 1 .- : . - .COtSft '7 E 71 ; ■_ — i 7 — " — '■ r iH 71 h7' H > ; : g : : I B- -' z, = ■ - - ■= "77 — — it ■ - ■= -.—-'--, \ ■ . W ; - = ^ - r. — - - ^ .- : = = i •- c - — : : _ X en x x r- — ^ 728 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. - to < co W < Pk o pq p to w o 3 o CO 1= o 3 < > En 3 o w A CO to o H © o 3' i— : i »■ i - © »"M"fii-rn co to -re "i to oo .- O O i- :co « ■- :: ?i : ■-■ jocf« o : o o o -io o p oo ■* ua : :i r-j ; C 1 -»■ . - ; © its : eC* i-Tus : o' ■ - ~1 = : :: l- -f ■ Tjl (O OS .re © :: z ■re o © © _ i - / ,-! .re .re j: c- s> CO CO r ~' t- *1 to o iO .0 =j NllliJ SI MMAKY. 729 To make tliis final survey as nearly complete as possible, the two following tables, s what modified, are repeated from pp. '".*-, 293. TABLE IV. -SUM MAR Y OF liEi'EIPTS AND V A LUES. V PARTICULARS. Cash Receipts al Centra] and Brum b Offices Value "i Stores donated to Cen- tral and Branch Offices Value of Publications donated toO mi nil and Br h I Iffii • - Vali Scriptures donated in \ rican Bible Society V.il I Scriptures donated bj British and Foreign Bible 8 ! Value of Hymn Books donated by \i rnv Committee, i oi Men's flu i~ii.ni Association, Roston Value of Deli itei en ices. Value ni Railroad, Steaml t, and other Transportation fa- cilities Value ■•! Telegraph facilities, ti. mi Elaine i" Caiifornis Value hi Rents ol Warehouses am) Offices. I. 1862. (40,160 29 142,160 00 I.-./.MI Mil 3,650 00 9 ' 386,829 0! 46,071 50 1,677 79 72,420 Oil 44. 'J 10 00 Totals $531,256 29 $916,83! 66 (2,882,34! B6 (2,2 i5 B8 (6,291,10! 68 ,207,755 28 lr,M.r,MS :;-, 31,296 32 72.114 83 1,788 06 169,920 00 108,76! 211.4. Ml 00 '..: $828,857 7m 1,141,96! !3 83,026 26 62^82 66 1,962 M 80,713 69 51,440 00 12^25 00 8,500 00 (2,524,612 56 2,839,445 17 114,322 58 179,824 09 1.1.77 79 3.750 90 344,418 69 216,091 61,815 00 15,250 00 ' This is for four months only, as the active campaign i !• *.il in April, with the fall of Richmond and the surrender of Leo. TABLE V.— SUMMARY OF LABiUiS AND DISTRIBUTIONS. PABTICUI. tRS. Delegates commissioned \ j i ate Number ol day* oi It, I. gates' fi i ice Lady Manag's of Diet Kitchens. Army A gents employed Agents' mployi din homework. ol Stores and Publica- tions distributed Bibles, Tpi I mts, und poi tions of Scriptures distributed.. Hymn and Psalm iJimk* Knapsnck Books, in paper or Hi xiblo ...mi- i: i i [brarj Books M ...I Pamphlets Ki ligioui H ei klj and Monthly Newspapers Pat 1 h... i- ■■ SiI.mii Comfortor," etc .-■II - i'i cached bj Delegates. Prayei M( stings held i.\ Dele- Writing paper m.- ti IbM, sheets. Bnvelopes distributed Letters written hj Delegal ... 92 374 11,68 102,660 130,69! 115,757 3,480 34.063 384.781 10,963,7(1(1 S30 II. 1863, 1,189 41,11s II 71 371,859 l '.'..i 591 39,713 120,492 in. i-iii. 2,217 47.1":; .... . 489,24! 4,826,676 93.872 346.6 16 2,931,469 7,990,758 11,976,722 13,661,842 3,285 3,698 IV. 1-ii.V 1,079 49,982 379,160 2,611 028 159,781 206,180 6,8H 994 '_■ 192 17 7..M 4,S59 1M..-.II2 157 108 53 95,066 1,466,748 1,370,953 8, :08,0 .'J 296,816 767,661 18426,002 39,104 243 - .72 58,308 77.744 7.067. i . 92.821 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. * sm^ x r; ■—• to ■M t-h -f s 01 (O -f « r- ■— — •— S. CO -r ks T -' >-' -i -' -t ■M* CO r-i ?1 r-' r-. - c i- 71 c: c ! r-. CO -f tO '■■: : i- -t :: ts -r ooct3ni-i-.ffl^c i-THH^in O w P3 £h |Z! W « O l« M <; 2 CO CO [Zi K K « Ph o o I W ►J pq Si '3 a. a 1 3 q 3. 3 ~r y ■ l i - : • - >— - s. — z :~ z. i- s. — j ■ : : l - -. s i 3 z -r z t m:ioo ■ -f -*■ O tO I— O "0 . qo rH i- eg i- a in ■ oi — j: cc oi ■ 3 -t -r y. i- § 'd : i - : i ito m en co N r. r-! ■ >- ~. z- '' z :: r. 3- :: >.-. :: z :: 3 :: ■*. Ti i- i- -r •.: Z -r : 01 r- i- —. : i- i- i~ .- ~ C y i- : =' W m" oJ »~ N" W -r i-I 41 it 13,4112 2,282 496 in 183 17. 684 354 145 3,771 -r :: CO = ■ /. :: c :i 3 a iq i . ti r ■/: ~i z — -? ■-. — :: :: :: z s z z z Z ■-. ■ -. :: z - >t -t - -: y — ~ #- - xiaaoc e= oi r? ■ -I -" ..7 r- - * — 'I '- i- •£ z >t :: :o" r' ti -" . to i-i t-( ^Hft r- t: I + | + + 4- + + + + + + + + + | + + + + + + + :t 3 ;: M (O -a t- co O ^* CO C ' ■- 3 ti -r ti -'-<■ t."i i o — :: :: •Z - 3 -t I- ~ i = l - -*" ', : ~ - '^ y_ I+-+ I 1-3-1 ,~ l~. — ■ ■- ~i ^ 3 ^- — z .:. i - ■ i - ::■ .-■ in z. -ri x >.-i oa "T o . -+ x y. ■.-; hi-« r. -f i - -t ti y. i - — • 7 to o r- y: y ~ •" : ^H f- j cr i-H ro ti ..7 7 i- r. i- — :: i— r — — :: : i :: :: :: •— :'. Z <— z Z . * >.-. ti - i - -!■ t; 3- r. r- >. y ::^c -/. hi-ujh : 1.7 -t f r-i-;::r-_/ :ii- — tt : i z_ ~ - y to -+ ; . - _ 7 1 L - to : i- ~ ..7' co* ~' r^ r-'r-i::' ti'i- » i-> ■— ' -.7' -3' -t -^'»- >— 't- ro ::' ■ s. -f <- :: / r-i co utj l- ;o ■- .~ ~ :: OC A t-l O O) t- rn iO iM * 3> -+ y: y: - 1- :t y. >7 o-t as .- c 1 - . 7' SO 1 - SS!3 /. ::*l::i-^:T-fu7C07]C03X; r r • 1 - - 1 - j -+■ 3. j. s. 7; -t- -. ■: 3. 3-^ 3_ <■._ T I T 1 3 .17 Z 1 - 1 - 3. 3- 7 I : ■ ft 3^ 'T ^-'-t d 01 TI I- :t ■"' I- 71 3-' 1 3. 1 - 3 T 1 — i— 1- i.7' N «5 T I X C i :i /■ c 7T. y. y: j: 3 *— r : -3 i - •+ i - 3 : T : : _ 3. : I % : - •- ti -c - 3 3 3: : o o o e 3 TI 3 . I '" 77 TI 'fi ^ > : ;: Sriift HOiHNOCOOC - ■ - ,— 3- '3 3. -f - I '7 <~. I- 3. 3 — f r- .T 3; 3 X 71 CT 3 ^- I- CO 7 -. .7 7 i t i -3 .- i~ — = :7^— ■ t 3 :: :t z t- z.s. t 7 7 1 — 7 I : 7 7 I -t- y 3 3 -' Z :? i- - -" ■: 3 — 7 sd — ' ';'::i-f'i- ■+ ti so ■-■ ti r-' Tj) so" bo OC TI713. 3 pH 01 O j-- 0) r-i f. z y 3 -f j i ■ CXCOHI-'TJ 3 y; to = > 7 3. 7 1 . :; ^ |. i- iT r- r" ■ ■3T 3. -t 3 "> TT >T '. — 3 3 I - ■ -. 3 7 I ; -3 71 3 — 3 TT : 3- :t' oi eo" : 3 3 3 3 3 O O O Q : 7^ 73 .7 3 3 3 T. -f y. 7 1 ' 7 — 7 1 I 3 :. 3 3. 71 ■ '~ " ' ' -': '". "-. »- o" r-i ti ::' ira CN -t O tj :: tOi— OS ,- aiOH ;~t=- -~.KKir.~z. :;jj : : it ;: § - " '" - 7 ~ ~V- X H 3 ? SUMMARY. 731 A comparison of the foregoing Tables will give, among other results, this exhibit of* the relative cosf of differenl departments of the work: — PAKTICTLARS. Stores distributed Publications and Stal rj distributed Diet Kin Ei. ii Work Incidental Expenses ol Delegates Salaries "i Vrmj Agents, etc Aims Expenses for teams, Btock, incidentals, etc Cosl of Tents, Chapels, Chapel Furniture, - ti Office Salaries, Collection Expenses, etc balances on band, January 1, 1866 Total Total Values. Polls. eta. 3,6*2,698 978,759 34,008 176,704 108,915 84,055 144...-:; 209,334 99,223 79 71 02 38 96 01 00 38 5,478,280 ' 31 Per- ■ i Hi [ge. 17.9 0.C 3.2 2.0 1.5 2.6 3.8 1.8 100.0 It will be observed that this comparison 'lues not in- clude tin- estimated values for Delegate service, trans- portation, and telegraph facilities, and the rent of offices and warehouses, — which were freely given to the Com- Note to Table VI. Column V I is formed by adding the corresponding sums in columns I and 1 1 1. Column VI 1 is similarly formed from columns II and III, on the assumption that each office disbursed all its receipts, whether of cash, stores, <>r publications. Column Y11I is formed from the difference between the corresponding sum- in columns 1 and II (or Viand VII). The minus sign | — I indicates that the office named in the corresponding line had a deficiency of funds for its work, — that is, ii expended more than the receipts into its own treasury, and hence received belp from the treasuries of other offices; the piiisBign | > indicates thai the office named had a surplus of funds, — that is, expended less than its receipts, and bence sent its surplus to the Central < HBce or some Branch < Iffice. Of course, the totals of tkeplus and minus sums in the column exactly balance each other. The Rank of each office is determined by the gross business done, thai is, by the entire -urn of the cash values which passed through it. whether as receipts or expenditures. Where the reported receipts exceed the expenditures, the receipts determine the Rank; where the reported expenditures are in excess they deter- mine it. The percentage of Office Expert column X is also, tor obvious reasons, determined upon the basis of the gross business. The other columns will readily explain themselves. 732 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. mission. The estimates for these, in Table IV, are very moderate, — as, for examj)le, that of Delegate service is at the rate of less than $700 per year for each Delegate, and no estimate is made for offices and warehouses for the first two years, — but they are more than sufficient to counterbalance all the personal and incidental ex- penses of the Commission, both at home and in the army, as the following figures will show: — Services of Delegates Transportation Facilities Telegraph Facilities Rents ol Warehouses and Offices Expenses of Delegates Salaries of Army Agents, etc Incidental Army Expenses Diet Kitchen Service, in full Salaries at the Home Offices Expenses of Meetings, Incidentals, etc Excess CM. 344,413 69 216,095 00 51.S15 00 15.250 00 627.573 69 IlolH. cts. 17H.704 KS 108,915 96 S4.llf.6 91 34,005 02 54,037 74 155,296 26 613,015 27 14,458 42 So that the entire expense account of the Commission was cancelled by the gratuitous services it received. And if it were desired fully to show how freely and generously this charity was served, it would be requisite to estimate also the gratuitous labors of the Executive Committees, at the Central Office, in all the Branches, ami among the local tributaries; together with the vol- untary assistance of returned Delegates and others in canvassing for money, stores, and Delegates ; and the free co-operation of publishers, merchants, and others, in helping forward the work. But such an exhibit, if it were possible, would be as unwelcome to the jiersons who rendered the service as it is unnecessary to the reader. Each Delegate labored, on an average, thirty-eight SUMMARY. 733 days, at a cost for incidental expenses of $36.10, and rendering a service valued at $70.68. The average annual expense of a Delegate was therefore i>>47.N4, and his annual service estimated at $678. The aver- age number of Delegates in the field 1 was, for the first year, 36; for the second year 115; tor the third year, '217 ; for the fourth year, 140; or, for the entire period, 127 ; so that the field service of the Delegates was equal to the continuous labors of one man for five hundred ami eight years. Assuming that the average number of permanent agents in the field, for the three full years of the Commission's active operations, was 50, and add- ing their service to that of the Delegates, it will give us the continuous labors of one man for six hu hdred and fifty-eight years. Adding also the salaries of the field agents and the incidental expenses in the army to'the expenses of the Delegates, the Tables will give this exhibit : The army work of the Christian Commission was equal to the continuous labors of one man for G58 years, — his annual work being the distribution of $5,530 worth of stores and $1,487.74 worth of publications (contained in 144 packages), besides preaching. 89 ser- mons, attending 118 prayer-meetings, and writing 140 1 This computation would l>e rendered more nearly exact by remembering that no Delegates were sent into the field until the middle of May, 1862, and that the field service of the Commission ceased, Cor the must part, in May, 1865, — excepting the permanent Delegates who were Bent into the distant West and Southwest. With this modification the figures would stand,- Werage number of Delegates tor the first year (eight months of L862), 18; lor the Becond year (1863), 115; for the third year (1864), 217 ; for the fourth year (four months of 1865, deducting also 50, as the number of Delegates who worked through the entire year), 310; or, for the entire period, from May 15, 1862, to Ma\ 15, 1865,— three full years. — an average number of loo, with 50 in the Held for the remainder of 1865. 734 ANNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. letters for the soldiers; his personal expenses per annum being $561.81, and his supplies for distribution being forwarded to him at the annual cost of $318.14. The Tables will readily suggest other comparisons, but it is not necessary to state them. Here our Anxals end. The Christian Commission was formed to do whatever might be found possible and needful, in addition to governmental provision, for the bodies and souls of the men in the army and navy. This was the -original purpose at its foundation, and out of this purpose the entire work grew. With what mea- sure of fidelity and wisdom the work was performed those must now judge who sustained it by their bounty and their prayers. In view of the above summary, and of the entire record, the reflections with which the Commission close their last Annual Report seem peculiarly appro- priate : — The figures w r e have given, if they cannot lie, neither can tell the full truth. Those appeals, in the name of Christ and country, to crowded, tearful audiences, in the churches and halls of the land, — by them how many better natures have been touched and holier purposes evoked. Those 5,000 Delegates, pastors and laymen, sent forth and followed by the prayers of all who pray, — how many have themselves been stirred and quickened, and have returned home clothed with new power for good. To how many weary and tempted men have they brought the cheer and restraint of home. Those tracts, knapsack books, and papers, — how little do these large figures show of their power to reinforce SUMMARY. 7-'>~> Christian workers, relieve tedium, quicken thought, and supplant sin. Those Bibles and Testaments, — given freely every- where, and yet scarcely one without its story; many of them well thumbed, and kept close and safe in the fight or march, when knapsack and blanket are thrown away. Those hymn-books, — the companions of the Testa- ments. How often have they lightened the march and lighted the cam]), and brought the home altar nearer the siil(licr"s heart. Those chapel tents and lug churches with canvas roofs, dotting the tented fields. How full of encouragement to faithful chaplains, and how precious in the memory of thousands who confess that they were born there. Those camp sermons and prayer-meetings. How many weary disciples refreshed and wanderers recovered, how many tears of penitence and tears of joy in new- horn hope, how many a brave soldier's manly word For Christ and truth, have they witnessed. Those sheets of paper and envelopes, counted by mil- lions, — each one a soldier's messenger to his home. There was not one too many. — not an envelope hut was freighted with tidings that seemed long delayed. What a vast work have they done in bringing camp and fire- side together. Those letters written by Delegates, — Some of them dictated on the spot where a young patriot was Lying in his blood; others bearing home " last words/' or a lock of hair, or a leaf from a tree over a soldier's grave. Every one relieved or broke some anxious heart. Those millions in money and stores. How many hard- earned dollars gladly given, and numberless and name- 736 AXNALS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. less comforts, filling boxes and barrels, have an un- written history in their gathering and in their spending. On how many thousands and millions of hearts, young and old, have they brought down the blessedness of giving. How many old have grown young in the toil gladly accepted, and how many young workers have sprung into the maturity of sacrifice and labor. To how many patriots, on bloody field or hospital cot, have these gifts, fragrant with the touch of home, brought back courage and life. An unwritten history, indeed, for which figures have no power, — indicated only by the love that gathered them, and the blessings of him, far away, that was ready to perish without them. We gave the Commission the name of the Master. We sent it forth to speak His words and imitate His deeds. Christ, the Lord, has accepted and honored it ; and now, wherever mention shall be made of the work it has accomplished, we desire only that the quick, grate- ful, adoring response shall be, SEE WHAT THE LORD HATH WROUGHT. tnitcb §t;ttcs Cluisthtn (Commission. January 1, 18GO. OFFICERS. GEO. H. STUART, Chairman. JOSEPH PATTERSON, Treasurer. Rev. LEMUEL MOSS, Home Secretary. Rev. EDWARD P. SMITH, Field Secretary. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. Cn LMEERLAIN, A. E., Cincinnati. Colwell, Stephen - , Philadelphia. CROZERi .Tons' P., Philadelphia. Cooke, Jay, Philadelphia. Hkiiiimi. Charles, Boston. Dodge, Wm E., New York. Dyer, Rev. Ilt:««. d.d., New York Farwell, John V., Chicago. Geo. H. Stuart, Philadelphia, Chairman. Fisk, Clinton ]!.. St. Louis. Frew, Wm., Pittsburg. ' Iripfith, G. S., Baltimore. Griffith, W. S.. Brooklyn. Janes, Rev. E. S., D.D., New York. Joni s, II. G.', Philadelphia. Patterson, Joseph, Philadelphia. Simpson, Ret. M., d.d., Philadelphia MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION. Bishop, Nathan, New York. [K. v - Breckinridge, Rey.R.J., d.d. , Lexington, Bi i hiM.n 01. W. A., Norwich, Conn. Caldwell. Sijii'ti, B., Brooklyn, N. Y. Carter, Walter S_ Milwaukee. Wis. Chamberlain, A. E., Cincinnati. Colfax, Schuyler, South Bend, Ind. i 'i WELL, Stephen, Philadelphia. Choke. Jay, Philadelphia. Cornelius, Rev. S.. Portland, Oregon. Crozer, John P.. Philadelphia. Demond. Charles. Boston. Dodoe, Wm. E„ New York. Dyer, Rev. Heman, d.d.. New York. Eeli.s. Rev. James, d. d., Brooklyn. N. Y. Evans, John, Denver City, Colorado, K irwell, John V., Chic I ;o. Fisk. Clinton B., St, Louis. Frew, Wm., Pittsburg. Griffith, G. S.. Baltimore. Griffith, W. S., Brooklyn, N. Y. Hill, John-, m. d.. Buffalo, N. Y. Hodge, Rey. C, d.d., Princeton, N. J. Janes, Rev. E. S., d.d., New York. Jesup, Morris K., New York. Jones, Horatio Gates, Philadelphia. Lee. Rt. Rey. Alfred, Wilmington, Del. Lehman, Rev. E., Chaska, Minn. Mi Ii.v vine. Rt. Rev. i'. P., Cincinnati. Miller, Mitchell H.. Washington, D. C Neale, Rev. Rolltn H., d.d., Boston. Nye, James W., Carson City, Nevada. Owen, John, Detroit, Mich. Patterson, Joseph. Philadelphia. Patton, Geo. F.. Bath. Me. PiEp.poNT, Francis II.. Alexandria, Va. Pike, Rey. .1.. Sanbsrton Bridge, N. H. Price. Hiram, Davenport, Iowa. Roberts, J. B., San Francisco. Simpson, Rev. M., d.d.. Philadelphia. Smith. John Gregory, Si. Albans, Vt. Stoever, M. L., Gettysburg, Pa. Storrs, \li:v. s. D., Atchison, Kansas. B 1 1 \i; i ', ' Ieo II.. Philadelphia. Thompson, Rev. M. L. R. P., Cincinnati. Torev. E. S., Piston. Willev, Waitman T., Morgantown, West Virginia. TRUSTEES. GEO. H. STUART, chairman. STEPHEN COLWELL. JOHN P. CROZER. JOSEPH PATTERSON. REV. M. SIMPSON, d.d. 93 COMMITTEE OF PUBLICATION. BORATIO GATES JONES, Chairman. STEPHEN i'n], WELL. CHARLES DEMOND. 737 MEMORIAL RECORD. OUR HONORED DEAD. Many Delegates and others, while in the service of the Christian Commission, were prostrated by exposure and over-work. Most of them recovered, after sickness of greater or less duration. But some died. It was intended to commemorate all such by appropriate biogra- phical sketches, and considerable materials were gathered for this purpose. But it was found impracticable to execute the design in a satisfactory manner, and it was therefore modified into the present form. The following List includes all, so far as known, who died or incurred their mortal sickness during their connection with the Commission. DECEASED OFFICERS AND MEMBERS OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. Crozee, John P., of Upland, Delaware County, Pa., — near Phila- delphia. A constituent member of the Commission. Chosen a member of the Executive Committee, September, 18(52. Appointed a residuary Trustee, January 11, 1866. Died, March 11, 1866.. Age, 73 years.. Fairbanks, Hon. Eeastus, ll. d., of St. Johnsbury, Yt. Chosen a member of the Commission, July 22, 1864. Died, Nov. 20. 1864. Age, 72 years. Miller, Mitchell H., of "Washington, D. C. A constituent mem- ber of the Commission. Member of the Auxiliary at Wash- ington. Died, May, 1866. Age, 52 years. Quigley, Thomas, of Louisville, Ky. First Treasurer of the Ken- tucky Branch. Died, January 3, 1864. Age, 63 years. Wayland, Rev. Francis, d.d., of Providence, R. I. Chosen a member of the Commission, July 22, 1864. Died, September 30, 1865. Age, 69 years. 738 MEMORIAL IIKCOUI). 739 DECEASED DELEGATES OF THE CHRISTIAN COMMISSION. For additional facts compare the List of Delegates, pages 602-f>38. Those whose names are in Italics died while in the army, or before reaching their homes. Datfl of Death. Aubott, Waldo Key West, Fla Adams, Rev. J. B Baston, Pa Adams, Rev. S. W., d.d Cleveland, Ohio />'/ w, 1 Mrs. C. -I Mendon, Mass Brown, Rev. David Triadelphia, Va Brown, Rev. William Portland, Me Collins, Rev. II. B Franklin, 1ml Conkling, Rev. II Cleveland, Ohio Danforth, Rev. a. II Milestown, Philad'a Davenport, Rev. William Otisfield, Me Doane, /.'/i. Hiram Peoria, 111 Dyer, Rev. A. 11 Harmony, Me Fisher, Rev. James P Westfield, X. Y Griffin, Rev. I> Yellow Springs, Ohio.... Hayes, Henry, m.d Deny, N. II IIii.i.. Rev. Joseph li Temple, N. II Hosford, 3 Miss Frances.. olivet. Mich Humbert, 2 Mis Mary K Allegheny City, Pa Kimball, JamesS Boston, Mass Ladi>, Rev. Fbancis I> Philadelphia, l'a Leighton, James ll r Strafford, X. II McCot, Rev. James Indianapolis, [nd Magill, Rev. Charles I! Birmingham, [owa Martin, Rev. Homer W Concord, X. II Mattox, Rev. George N Prosperity, Pa Merritt, Reuben I> Wilson, X. Y M m\ i K.i.irs, Wm. P Mifflinsburg, l'a Morrell, Rev. Paschal P Gardiner, Me Partridge, Asa Bellingham, Mass Pi lrl, Rev. Cyrii South Freeport, Me Power, Rev. /•'. II i Elizabeth, l'a /.'i vdall, J. !■ lYaphank, X. Y Reed, Robert R.,m.d Washington, l'a Requa, Rev. 1 1 i : n i : v Ripon, Wis Rideout, Rev. J. J Florence. Pa Russell, Rev. W. S Jacksonville, 111 Silvers, Rev. J. F Lambertville, N.J Smith, Rev. Johm F Franklin, [nd Stowe, Rev. Timothy New Bedford, Mass Tenney, Rev. S. W Norridgewock, Me Thompson, Rev. Geo. W., d.d.. Icademia, Pa Tl i B i ft, REV. .1 IME9 J South Dedliam, Mass Ward, Rev. Fletcher New Salem, X. Y.. Jnlv July Sept Mar. July Dec. Sept. I >ce. Feb. Jan. July Nov. log. Feb. Sept. June Aug. Aug. l>e,-. July Nov. Feb. Au-. June I lee. Feb. June Sept. Mar. Feb. ( )et. Oct. Dec. May July Nov. July July Aug. June Jan. Jan. ( >ct. 11, 1864. 5, 1865. 27, t864. I. 1864. 8, 1863. 11, 1864. 1. 1864. 15, L865. 1 1. 1865. 3D, 1865. 21, 1863. 15, 1863. 31, 1865. , 1864. I. 1864. 16, 1864. 15, 1864. 19, 1865. 16, 1864. 7. 1862. 1 I. 1864. 6, 1865. 27, 1864. 14, 1865. 6. 1864. is, 1865. 16, 1865. 1, 1864. 2, 1865. 10, 1865. 16, lsc,;;. 27, 1864. 1 I, 1864 19, 1865 28, 1864. 24, IS64. 28, 1864. 4, 1864. I -J. 1866. 23, 1864. 28, IS64. 13, 1864. 27, 1864. Y,-:irs of Age. 28 63 49 25 22 53 35 58 48 62 57 25 53 50 59 68 21 42 23 62 24 23 26 32 23 ' . 1 42 60 34 23 o, 15 26 32 32 -in II 30 54 :;ii 11 1 \ii- Bent died at Camp Parole, near Annap ilis, Md. t where she labored in connection with her husband, Rev. <;. ft. Bent (See pp. 318 I * Mb Hosford and Mine Humbert were connected with the Diet Kitchen service S Mi--. Uosford died in Huspital No 3, Lookout Mountain. CHRISTO ET PATRIAE. INDEXES I. INDEX TO THE INTRODUCTION. Abraham's victory over confederate chiefs, 15. Alexander t he Great, 19. Ambulanee and Flying Hospital, 50. American Bible Society, in the Crimean "War, 48. American Revulution, care of wounded, 33, 36; suffering of soldiers, 34 seq. American Tract Society, in the Mexican War, 40. Anderson, Rev, M. B.. ll. p., 29. Annotated Paragraph Bible, 22. Aristotle, 20, 24,20. Armies, ancient, large size of, 21, 22. Army and Navy Journal, New York, 17, IS, 27. Arnold, Rev. Thomas, d.d., 20. Babylonians and Chaldeans had no physicians, 18. Bache, Mrs. Sarah, 37. Bancroft, George, 60. Baptists of Germany, in Schleswig-Holstein War, 57, 58. Bellows, Rev. H. W.. d.d., 55. Biblical Cyclopedia, Kitto, 20, 22 Biographies of Eminent Soldiers, Mitchell, 27, 28, 30, 31. Brace, Chas. L., 55. Butlingham, Rev. A. H., d.d., 52. Captives in war, ancient treatment of, 25, 26. Chaplains, in the American Revolution, 39; in the Crimean War, 47. C/iarite Internationale (La), Dunant, 26, 29, 31, 52. 54. t 'Inn ity of the Primitive Churches, Chaste], 2S,42. Chastellux, Marquis de, 37. Chivalry, influence of, 28, 29. Christianity and war, 13, 14; in the Middle Ages, 27, 28. Clothing for soldiers of the American Revolu- tion, 37. Commission Sanitaire des Etats-Unis, Evans, 52. Convents, took charge of disabled soldiers, 28. Coppee, President Henry, ll.d., 19. 740 Crimean War, English soldiers in the, 43 seq., 50; French, 48; Russian, 51, 52. Cyrrha, siege of, IS. Cyrus, king of Persia, 18. Dancing party changed to soldiers' sewing so- ciety, 38. Dictionary of the Bible, William Smith, 17, 21, 26. Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities, Wil- liam Smith, IS. 21, 26. Dictionary of Greek and Roman Biography, Wil- liam Smith, 19. Discipline, military, absence of, in Middle Ages, 27. Does the Bible Sanction American Slavery? Gold- win Smith, 16. Dunant, J. Henry, 54. Economy of caring for soldiers, 30. Edinburgh Medical Journal, 59. Egyptian physicians supported from the public treasury, 18. Encyclopedia Mdropolitana, 20. England, awl fir Soldiers, Miss Martineau, 43. English soldiers in the Crimea, 43, 50. Essays on Slavery. B. B. Edwards, 20. Europe during the Middle Ages, Hallam, 27, 30. Evans, T. W., m. d.. 52. Everett, Edward, at Gettysburg, 22. Examination fur military pensions among an- cient Greeks, 24. Extra-governmental provision for soldiers, 40, 42, 44 seq., 4S, 51, 54 seq., 59. Field Book of the Revolution, Lossiog, 35, 36. French soldiers in the Crimea, 50. Fuuerals, ancient military, 23. Geneva, Switzerland, International Relief Com- mittee, 53, 54. Gettysburg, Pa., 22. I. IXDDX TO THE INTRODUCTION. 741 Greeks, ancient, medical arrangements in armies 20. Gunpowder, introduction of, 30. Hai.i.. Rev. Robert, 25. Harpocration, 23. Herbert, Lord Sidney, 44. Hippodamns, an ancient Greek philanthropist, 24. Historical Ffeio of the American Revolution, Greene, 35, 39. History nf Herodotus, Ruwlinson, 18. Biliary of Latin Christianity, Milman, 29, 30. Bisk ry of the World, Philip Smith, 19, 22, 28. Hospitals, military, first Introduction of, 81. Hours at Home, New York, 59. Inner Mission of Germany, in Schleswig-Holstein War, 57. Interni lal Si ty for Relief of Disabled Sol- diers, 53 seq.; American Branch, 54. isabell* of Spain, organized a military hospital 31. Jewish Priest, duty in time nf war. 10. Jewish soldier, cared for in war, 16, 17. Jews, more humane in war than other ancient nations, 16, 26. Knights, cared for disabled soldiers, 28, 29. I.M VIITTE, 38. Larrey, Baron P. J., 31. Leo VI, 28. Lewis, Mi -. General Morgan, 10. Lewis, Prof. Tayler, u, i... 20. Life ../' Solon, Plutarch, 23. Lincoln, Abraham, President, at Gettysburg, Leasing, Benson .1.. 36. 40. Ludlow, John Malcolm, 29. Nurses, Miss Nightingale's, in the Crimean War, duties of, 46. Oncken, Kev. .1. G., D.D., 57. Paulowjta, Htisxi, Grand Duchess of Russia, service in Crimean war, 52 Percy, 1'. I-'.. 32. Pericles, 23. Philadelphia, care for soldiers ..f the American Revolution. 37. Physicians, ancient, 18 seq. Plutarch, 20, 23. Poe, Mrs., and Lafayette, :;s. Prisonersof war, seldom taken bj the ancients 21. Prussia, originated in a soldiers' relief soi iety, 29. Public charity, wanting among He- ancients, 20. Pulpit of the American Revolution, Thornton, 39. Reed, Mas. Esther, .'::. Ii,,|| " f "' soldiers, no private organizations for, prior t.. 1854, 40. Religions character of Onion army, 6 Religions privileges oi English soldii i- 57, w Bpirll of tie- American Revolution, 39. Report of Sidney Berbert's Commission 44 45 j , ■. 48. Republicanism an. I patriotic benevoli ore. 60. /,'- rwi Chrftienne, 51, "oooans, »„, ],.,„. , ,;,..,, arrangements in iheir armies, lii. Russian Boldii i - in the Crimean war. 51. MiT.ns.v. i,„ a Scotch "Delegate" in the 1 ' 'in, a, 47. M, ' ,li '' ■ knowledge i i the ancients, 17. Is. Ml '" narj troops, used In the Middle Ages, 27 Mexican War, labors of American Tract S n 40. •*• Military hospitals, excepted Irom private benevo- lence, 42. Military power, the people Jealous of.in Amerl can Revolution, 39. "' ' "" Hamburg, 57. Monod, Rev, Tl Morris, Robert, princely donation of. 37. » n ° Chryros, ancle reek phj in the army, 18. VI m i .... . i ..„ Cyclopedia, 21. 28, 81 45, Nightingale, Miss Florence, 40. 41 43 ti i , in |S, ,,,!, Su.tr.iv. gonerosity toward wounded soldiers 28 Schaff, Philip, 57. Schleswig-Holstoin War, religions labors among the soldiers, 66 seq. Simpson, Rev. M . n. n.. 14, Sisterh is, Roman Catholic, 28 29. Sisters of Charity, Mrs Ji son,' 28, 45. Slain in ancient armies, m rj numi rous, 21. Slavery, prisoners ol war reduced to, 26. Smith, Prof. Goldwin, it., n., 16. Smith. Rev. Henrj 11. , d.d., 60. Soldiers, care of, i„ ancient times, 18 see. ; in the Middle Ages, 27 uq.; in later tin,,-. 31 uq.; '" |M " American Revolution, S3 .,.,..• i„ the rri " War, III ■;;/. ; j„ , h „ ,,.,.„„, ,,„„.,,. can Rebellion, 69; their position Improved by introdm Hon of gunpowder, : ifforts by the am leni. to 1, 11 ovoi theii di id 22; offi. cial stipulations foi ci 1 disabled, 31, 82; international reliel society inter^ national treat] Solferino, battle Solon, 23. s ■ ■* Sol) rim 1 „. Dunaut, 58 Spirit of Uilitary Institutions, Marraont, 29. 742 INDEXES. Surgery, military, among the ancients, 26. Bwlntun, William, 60. Teutonic Knights, origin of the Order. Timet | 'An, Lnii, Inn, 30, 44. Treaty, international, concerning disabled sol- diers, 55. Tribune ( The), New York, 51. Tribute Book, Goodrich, 38. United States Christian Commission, 14, 40, 59, 60. United States Sanitary Commission, 59. Valcourt, Dr. de, 50, 51. Victoria, Queen of England, 49. VisU to tlie Camp before Sebastopol, McCormict, 45,47,48. War, first mentioned in the Bible, 15; univer- Xenophon, IS. sality of, in ancient times, 16; humanity of Jewish laws, 16; prevalent in Middle Ages, 16; the American Revolution, 33 seq.; of 1812, 40; Mexican, 40; Crimean, 43 $e.q.; Solferino, 52 s>q. ; Schleswig-IIolsteiu, 56 seq.; American Rebellion, 5S srq. War for the Union, the people's war, 14, 58, 59. Warfare, ancient mode of, 21. Warren, Rev. J. G., i». d.. 57. Washington. General George, describes the suffer- ings of his s..ldiers, 35; letter to the ladies of Philadelphia, 38. Wellington, Duke of, his humanity to the wound- ed, 33. Woman's Work in the Church, Ludlow, 2S. Women of the American Revolution, active in working for soldiers, 06, 37. Wylie, Rev. T. W. J., d.d., 41. II. INDEX TO THE ANNALS. Abbott. Rev. J. J.. .103. Activity, religion? and patriotic, at Iho begin- ning ol ill'- war, SI, 89. Adams Express Company, 485, 534, 716. A.I., in-.. I K 385. Adams, Rev. w.n., d.d., 181,192. Albany, X. ^ ., 350. Albree, Jo» ph, 346, 347. Alexandria, v.,.. 299,398. Allington, Rev. VT.,721. Alvord, Rei ■> « .. 85, 68, 170,298. i i [ and Her Army, Mackenzie, 697. a Baptist Publication Sociel ] American Bible Society, 7'.'. >*4, 127. 280 s-.; . 460, 485, 688 "•/.. 703, 7ii4. American Bible I talon, G9S. American and F ign Bible Society, 698. American Messenger^ New York, 685, 699, 700. American Reform Tract and Book Society, 700. American Seaman's Friend Society, 717. American Sunday School Union, Ton. Amerii in Ti - I So lety, Boston, 84, 127, - I 711. American Tract Society, Now York, 85, 127. 2. '7. 698, 699, 714. Amerii an I ni in Coi Ission, 447. Amce, Rev. Bernice n.. ion. Anderson, Rev. O. v\ .. 136. Andei son, .1. \ . 644. Annapolis, Md., 319, 320, 659, 660. Antietam, M4.. battle of, 862, 867, 368, 659. Army, as a field for religious labors, 81 seg.,206 divisions of, I'm- Commission work, 153 geq. .■ plan ol field organizat 661 , Army of tin- Cumberland, beginning of work. 147, 154, 155; difficulties ol transportation, 456; method ol work, 466 seq.i principal Btal i ■ , , racilil ies boi nred, 468 ; m- I work, 484; closing labors, 513 ."•/. Army ol the Ohio,147, us, 484, Army ol' Hi,- Pol :, first labors, 122, 146, 1S3; work in 1862,360-369; in 1863 3,".i-4n7 ; in is. 11.407 1 11 . in 1865,436-464; closing cam- Q, 117 Ainu .0 the Tl 111 f, 148, 154, oil. 484, Artillery Brigade, woi k in an, 425. Ashley, Rev. B. s , 436. Ashmead & Evans, Philadelphia, 718 Ml. ml. 1. 1. , . 604. Augur, General C. C, 266. Auxiliaries. — Branch Commissions, relations and fields, loo seq.; general record, 294-4359. Albany, N V .. 350 Baltimore, Mil.. ::is Bangor, Me., 340. Until. Mo.. .140. Boston, Mass., 805. Brooklyn, X. Y.. 325. 11. ill., I". X. Y.. 323. Chicago, 111., 308. Cim mo. hi. 0., 341. Cleveland, 0., 351. Detroit, Mich., 348. Harrisburg, l'a., 356. Hartford, Conn., 851. Indianapolis, Iml.. 349. Louisville, Ky., 327. Milwank. e, \\ is., 352. Newark, .X. J.. 355. x.w II. ,v. n. Conn., 351. New York. X. Y.. 332. !■. ria I.! 380 Philadelphia, Pa., 304. Pittsburg, Pa., 345. Portland, Mo.. 840. Providence, R. I.. 355. Rochester, x, Y.. 3 5. San li :isco, Cal Springfield, Mass., 355. SI. Louis, M,o. 311. SI. 1'i.nl, Mm Toledo, >>. o Troy, X. Y.. 341. Utica, n ! v\ ashington, D. C Wheeling, W. Va., 356. - Com inj — i,.,.. Statistical Tablis. \, lM P, 525. Ilioov. »™ .1 BaJrd, Rev. W. F.. 690. Baker, [saac, 573, 591. Bab 1. I Nsvrtou, 231 71 744 INDEXES. Baldwin, H. P., 348. Ballantyne, William, 69, 70,88, 104, 139, 152, 296, 303. Ballard, F. W., 89, 92, 103. Baltimore, 79, 318, 520, 529. Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, 138. Bangor, Me., 530. Bantz, Mr. and Mrs. Gideon, 659. Baptist Missionary Anniversaries, May, 1861, 85. Barnefl, J. K., Surgeon-General TJ. S. A., 67, 245, 410, 671. Barrett, J. 6., 32S. Barrows, Prof. E. P., D.D., 167. Bates, Miss Almena B., 70. Battle-field work, 261, 3S5, 42S seq., 444, 471 seq., 493 seq., 50S, 547. 596 seq. Bealeton. Va.. 394. 401 seq. Beatty, Mrs. Mary S., 657. Beeeher. Rev. Henry Ward, 118. Beginning of the war, 67; of religions labors among soldiers. 68 seq., 639, 640. Belle Plain, Va., 417 seq., 431 seq. Bellows. Rev. II. W.. D.D., 77. 521. Bent, Rev. G. R.. "is. Best, Rev. Jacob, 335. Bible Society Record, 704. Bickerdyke, Mrs., "Mother" of General Sher- man's army, 479,480. 501. Birney, General D. B., 453. Bishoii. Nathan, n.. d., 152, 333. Blackberries for the soldiers, 645, 655. Bliss, S . 492. Blockading squadrons, 150, 333, 337. Boardman, Rev. W. E., 117, 122, 129. 137, 152, 170. 192, 353, 364. Boardman, Mrs. W. E., 660. Boston, Mas-.. 87, 95. 97, 104, 121, 305, 654. Bowler. Rev. S. I... 303. 340. Bowman, Colonel S. M.. 132. Bowman, Mrs. S. M, 353, 354. Boyuton, Rev. C. B., D.D.. 234. Bradford, Mrs, Augustus W., 660. Brainerd, Cephas, S6, 101, 103, 104. Branch Commissions, see Auxiliaries. Brandy Station, Va., 396, 39S, 411. Breaking camp, 381, 416. Brent. Mrs. .Ian. W., 348, 349. Bridgeport, Conn., 70. Bridgeport, Tenn., 463, 464. Bringhurst, Bev. Geo., 364, 366. Brisbane, Rev. B. I.., 722. Bristol, Rev. D. W., D. D., 355. British and Foreign Bible Society, 280, 696, 697. Brouson, Oliver, M.B., 336, 337. Brooklyn, N. Y.. 95, 101. 181, 18S, 325. Brooklyn Navy Yard, 327, 335. Bronghton, N-, Jr., 297. Brown. .las. M.. 333. Buckingham, Wm. A., 361. Buffalo, N. Y., 320, 323, 324, 520. Bnll Run, Va., first battle of, 89, 90 seq. Bumell, K. A., 148, 314, 466, 467. Burnside, General A. E., 132, 13S, 147, 148, 243, 341. Bnrrowes, Mrs. Lucy II.. 344. Butler, General 11. F., 243. Butler, Rev. C. M, D. n., 217. Butler, Rev. J. O.. 69. Butterfield, Rev. II. Q.. 466. Buzzell, Rev. Geo. B.,368. Cinr, Cn.vs. E.. Surgeon U. S. A., 534. Cairo, 111., 310, 331,556. 704. Call for Convention to appoint a Christian Com- mission, 100. Cameron, Simon, Secretary of War, 77, 109, 175, 24S. Caldwell, S. II., 326. Camp Convalescent, near Alexandria. Va.. 301, 302,364,404: Cowan, Tenn.. 462: Nashville, Tenn., 459 : Murfreesboro', Tenn., 460. Camp, March, and BattU-Fietd, Stewart, 174. Camp Parole, Annapolis, Md., 319, 405. Carpenter, V. B., 528. Carpenter, Rev, J. R.. 97. Carter, Walter S., 352, 507, 596. Cash receipts by the Commission, 521,726; ex- penditures, 727. Castle, Rev. .1. II.. 136. Cavalry, day's work anion.;. 449. Charlostown, Mass., 70. ChBrlestown Navy Yard. 306. Chamberlain, A. E., 217, 342, 536. Chancelioreville, Va.. 378 seq. Chi s, Lieutenant Thos., 184. 437. Chape] at Meade Station. Va., described, 183 seq ; suddenly changed to a field hospital. 443. Chapels, and chapel-roofs, 174 son.. 4os, 412, 41:'., 414. 442. 447.448.459. 514. Chapels, wooden, Bent from Cincinnati. Chaplains, B8, 94, 97, 126. 142. 177. 178. 394. 401, 4o8, 412. 442. 462, 456, 481. 490. 506, 514, 544. 549. 577, 7o9. Chose, Geo 3., 187. Chase, S. P., Chief-Justice U. S. Supreme Court, 132,216, 237. Chatfleld, S.. 320. Chattanooga, Tenn., 404 seq., 470 seq., 514. Chicago, III . 75, 76. 122. 308. 310, 520. Chickamatlga, Tenn.. battle of the. 462 seq., 466. Cliidlaw, Rev. 11. W., 78. 117. 17:;. 217. 341. 342. Children and their work for the soldiers, 232, 354, 539, 540, 645, 651 seq., 712 seq. I Christ in Hie Army, 67. Christian Banner iTIie), 6S5. Christian men in first regiments. 82. "Christian Commission, 11 first nseo'fhe name. 96. Sec United States Christian Commis- sion. II. INDEX TO THE ANNALS. '1.1 Chrutian World i The), England, 82. I 'Ine tiuas dinners fur tin- soldiers, 020. 329. Cincinnati, Ohio, 78, 79. 341. Cincinnati Young Men's Bible Society, 78. City Point, Va., 196, 322, 420 .<.-,,.. 140 seq., 661 Clark. Clias. F., 34S. Clark, II. H., 415. Claxton, Rev. J. 1!., D.B., 825. Clendenin, Wm., Surgeon 0. S. .v., 513. Cleveland, Ohio, 72, 181,351. Cleveland, lenn., 492. Clippinger, G. B 349. Coffee Wag lescribed, 445. Coffin, C. C. ("Carleton " of the Boston Journal), 4:::.. 582. Cold Harbor, Va., battle of. 419. Cole, John A.. 139, 143, 140, 147, 177, 251, 317, ::i;u. :::o. 139s. Cole, Ley is. 185. Colfax, Schuyler, 234,256,268, 528. Colored Troops, schools for, 407, 43S, 44-.', 452 s. q, Colwell, Stephen, 21 7, 229. Colyer, Vincent, 69, 83, B8, S9, 92,94,95,96,99 100, 101, 103, 104, 122, 174. 297, 298, 326. omforl Bags ' 486, 539 651 seq. Commission given t.« Delegates, 541 ; t,. Special Deputation, 192; to Lady Managers of Diet Kitchens, 672. Concord, .Mass. 7n. Confederate soldiers. 150. 157,308, 321,440. 472. 474, 47... 588, 589, 595. iii nt. Auxiliaries in. 351. Couti i I >u ti. ns, rash, 519-540, 720. 730; rate ol in creat 519; - 1 ol c illecting, 519 ; from fairs, 520; genera] sources, 521; public col- lections, 522 stq.; Bpecial contributions, 525 sea.', from public officers,528; from corpora- tions, 530; from foreign countries, 531 ; from foreign miss aries, 532,533; from < lie sol- dier-. 533; from the navy, 535; keepsakes and -J i.,i offering - 536 seq. .- from t li-- la, lies, 539; from the children, 539, D40. Convention to form the Christian Commission, assembles, 108; delegates present, 103,104; U]i|iuints tin- Cmninissiuii. In."., lni;. Cook, Rev. 11. S., 833. Cooke, Jay, 129, 130, 152, 156, 167. Cookman, George, 102, b granted by, 138, 317, 329, 343. 347, 353, 185, 630,634,716; contribution! from S Crane, Rev, K. N.. 161,635. Cri a. English loldii re in tln\ 434, G79. i rit ion Id, Rei N. B. 189, 504. in. General Thos. 1.., 565. Croll, I. ii 349. Crosby, Charles, 489. 9 1 Crosby, Judge N., 71,72, 73. Cross, Rev, A. H 823 Crowell, Mrs. W. 0., 357, 359. John P., L06, 129, 130, 131, 152, 229. Cudworth, Rev. \v. n„ 97. Culpepper, Va.. :;'.i4. 427. Curwonsvllle, Ta., 524, Cutler, Rev. B. C., D.n„ 108 113, 122 120 Cuyler, .04m M„ Surgeon i . S I.., 322,558. Daktortb", Hev. A. IT.. 576. Dauphin Island, Ala., 516. Dai is, Admiral Chas. II.. 257. Dedrick, Levi, 350. Delegate of the Commission, captured and itn- prisoned, 166, 101. 464. ttes, the lust company, 122 552; first method of working, 144, 361 : improved method, 145,369; paid ami unpaid, 338, 339, MS, .'ant; death of, 402. 4s4. 510; incon- veniences, 457.495: tl in-. inn, 541; instructions, .".42 ; duties. ".4:; seq., 249. 433 rj . 465, 47s. all ; to camps, 544 seg.; to hospitals, 546, .'.47-. to battle-fields, 547. genera] re- quisites and provisions, 548 seq.; service al home, 550 : characteristics and mi he- ,.!" th.ir labors, 554 .--■<■: plan ol" Mrs. Wlttenmyer's kitchens, 665, 666; adopted by the C no-- 007. 668: welcomed by sturgeons, 668, 674,678; kitchens estat.lish Government approval and endorse nt, 0,70, 071 ; Mhuii- 746 INDEXES. ger's commission, 072: instructions, 67*2. 073 ; method "i" working, 674 seq.; consolidated diet list of sixteen hospitals for one month, 680, 681; kitchens of Miss Nightingale, in the Crimea, 679 ; list of lady managers, 6S2 ; cash expenditures in the service, 727, 731, 732 ; deceased managers, 739. Dix, Miss Dorothea L., 80. Dodge, Wm. E., US, 132, 333. Dodge, Geo. R., 136. Dooliltle, J. R., 264. Douglass, Clias., 340. Douglass, Itev. R. D., 437, 463, 480, 489. Duff, Rev. Alexander, n. n., 531. Duffield, Mrs. Isabella G., 537. Dunton, Jacob, 445. Duryea, Rev. J. T.. 181, 56S, 576. Dot! lor. John A., 352, 596. Duties of Delegates. 249. 433 se}., 468, 478, 511, 543 seq ; of Diet Kitchen Managers, 072 seq. Duty of the churches to the army, 200 seq., 200 seq., 522. Dyer, Rev. A. R., 402. Dyer, Rev. Ileinan, D.D., 279, 333. Earxsha.w, Rev. Wm., 461. Easton, Ba., 539. Eastport, Miss., 516. Baton, Rev. S.J. M., 431. Ecclesiastical Sislnry of England, Stoughton, 578. Ecclesiastical position of the Christian Commis- sion, 302, 522 568. Edwards, Rev. .1. II., 435. Kelts, Rev. James, n. D., 129, 152. Eggleston, Edward, 349. Electoral College of Pennsylvania, 529. Elkhorn, Wi6., 643. Emerson, Rev. Alfred. 200. Emery, Rev. S. 11.. 125, 534, 640. Emmons, II. V., 437. Ensign, Rev. F. G., 150. 314, 315. Ernst, Rev. John F.. 152. Ewing, T. R., 150, 57". 464, 489, .',07, 511, 512. Exchange of prisoners, Colonel Ould to General Grant, 107. Executive Committee, See United States Chris- tian Commission. Expenditures by tin. Commission, 727. 730. Expenses of the Commission, 727, 730, 731, 732. Extra-governmental assistance in the army, ne- cessity for. 551-503. Fairfax, Va., 382, 393, 395. Fall of Richmond and Petersburg, Va., 444. Falmouth, Va., 377. 379 seq., 418. Farragnt, Admiral D. G., 216, 246. Farwell. John V.. 76, 106, 152, 307, 507. Fay, O.W.704. Ferris, Rev. Isaac, D. D., 695. Fessenden, F. II., 601. Field, David Dudley, 77. Field organization of the Commission, early de- fects, 144, 361, 455 ; improvements, 145 seq-. 369, 408; for an active campaign, 415. Financial crisis of 1857, 64. First rail lor troops, 68. First subscriptions of the war, 71. Fisher. Rev. C. E., 400. Fisher, Rev. J. P., 303. Fisk, General Clinton B., 10S, 217, 310. fitch, Captain .1. R„ 463. Fit/.. Rev. S. E„ 401. Five Forks, Va., battle of, 443, 451. Flint. Rev. R., 673, 574. Folsoin, Rev. E., 76. F 1. preparation of, for sick soldiers. See Diet, Diet Kitchens, Diet Kitchen Service. Foote, Admiral A. II.. 132, 154. Foreign countries, contributions from, 531 seq. Fort Donclson, Tenn., 122. Fortress Monroe, Va., 552. Foster. Frederick G., 152, 333. Fowhr, Rev. P. H., D. D., 355.. I Franklin, Tenn., 507, 511. Frederick, Md., 176, 659. FrederickBburg, Va™, 308, 417 seq., 431 seq., 570, 591 seq. French, J. D. W., 495. Frew, Win., 346. Fuller, Itev. A., 422. Fulton Street Prayer Meeting, New York, origin of, 64 seq. Gallagher, Rev. Mason, 8S. Ganse, Rev. II. D., 132. i II. J. U\, 138. Gates, Mrs. Ejien Huntington, 279. Gettysburg, Pa., battle of, 143, 322, 3S3 seq., 552. Gilbert, Rev. W. II-. 690. Gladwin, Rev. w. .1., 317. G I by the way, 555. <■ Irich, F. B., 7".71.72,73,77. Goss, Rev. C. C, 88. Gould & Lincoln. Boston. 717. Government favor and facilities for the Cornmis s 136 seq., 143, 232, 337, 343, 513, 665, 670, 671, 718. Grant. James, 96, 99, 102. Grant, General U. S., 122, 126, 140, 141, 14S, 149, 192, 193, 194, 195, 197, 238, 253, 269, 468, 479, 676. Grapes for sick soldiers, 352, 655. "Great March" of General Sherman, 222, 504 seq Greek Testaments among the soldiers, 78. Gregory, General E. M., 196. Grldley, F„ 324. Griffin, Samuel, 653. Griffith, G. 8., 79, 152,318. II. INDEX TO THE ANNALS. 747 Griffith, W. s, 326. Grinnoll, Moses II., 71. Grosve 0. D., 325, Gunboats, w estern, work on,831. II vi.i.. Ret. Gio. A., 4:17. Hall, Rev. 8. II., n.i)., 090. Hallei '. Gonorul II. \V„ 124,137,139. Hamilton, Rev. II. F, 870, 105. Hamlin, Haunibal, Vico-President, 77. 162, 216. Hammond, w , A ., Surg 'General U. S. A., 126, 137, 1 ■■- ii in i. General W. S., 242. Hardy, J. Edward, S28. 11. n I in. James, Secretary of the Interior, 256. Harris, Mrs. E. M.. 74. 89,90, 483. Il.ii i isbili .. Pa., 356, 657. ll.ii 1 1 -i in _■ Ladies' Relief Association, 657. Hartsougn, Rev. I,.. 615. Hi, hi. ('ii.,- P., 311. Hawes, Rev. !•:., 217, 303, 453, 166. Hays, (1 P., 152, 318, Uenson, K. \ . Joseph, 336. Higbee Ihei lore, 330. Hill, John Ii., H. i... 103, 106, 131, 323, 324. Hitchcock, General E. A.. 197. History of the Oivil War, Lossing, OS. 77. SO. History of the Crimean War, Chambers, 431. . f Rationalism, Hurst, 63. History nf tht Sanitary Commission, Stille, 77. Hoadley, David, 353. Holmes, Rev. II. M, 514, 515. Holmes, Rev. J. M„ 651. II oi an I the army, 544, 547, 601-500, 591,735. Home organization of the Coi isslon, no sea;., 153 y.. 166 SO/, 171, 173. 295 seq. Hooker, General Joseph, 139. Hopkius, I,, O, 312. II,. i. hl.iii. ttov. ii. ii.. 578. Houghton, II. in | c .. 150, 437, 189. " Housewives,*' 186,539,651 wq. Howard, B. II.. Surgi on O. s. A., 213. Howard, General O. 0., 132,240,463,480,481,482, 492,498 ! II. ii ml. Rev. II. O., 398. Hunt, Rev. E . 324. Huntsvillc, Ala., 514. Hussey, Rev. John, 166, 157,15s, 101,404. Ilut.liiiiM.ii Family, 279. 3TATS Saritabv COMMISSION, 228. Indcpm in- , n. i, New Xork, 82, lis. [ndlanapolis, Ind., 310. Individual Relief Department, 187,227,408,40ft, 4:;s .„■,,.. 145. Information for Army Meetings, 522. iiisklp, Rev, John S.. 174. 175. "Ii.. ii -.'ii i i ' iinv,. II mill the Union soldiers, 678. Jacobs, 11. P., 76, 122, 807, 507, 596, 600. Janes, Rev. K. S., d. n., 106, L08, 113,130,131,139, 14n, 144, 152. 191, 192, 194, 196,216. Jenkins, Chas. VV.,370, 407,412, 115. Jessup, Rev. II. H.,538. Jesup, Morris K Johnson, Rev. Edwin, 400. Johnson, Rev. Herrick, 260, 316. Johnson's I-l 1. Ohio, 156, 157. Jones, B. D., 811,312. Jones, Horatio G.,191, 192, 191, 190, 197, 21S, 229. Journal \ J7tc) Daily, Boston, 582. Jubilee Memorial of i • " Society, 695. Ki r\n Mrs. Mart B., 8 A Kenuard, Rev. J. II.. D.D., 132. Kimball, James S., 184, 510. King, II irvey .1.. 311. Kingsley, Rev. J. 0, 303. Kiugston, Ga . 498 seq. Kirk. Rev. E. X.. n.D.. 107. 223, 699. Kirkby, \\ m 4;;, 154. Knox Female Seminary, Galesbnrg, III., 538. Kiln. II. M., 349. Knoxville, 'iVnn., 470. I, \im>' Christian Commissions, 170. 187, 227.324, 318, 351, 350 sr.j. Lady Delegates or Missionaries, 815. Lady Managers of Diet Kitchens, 665 seq.; tln>ir commission, Instructions, ami duties, 672 teq.; list of n.ini'i-. 682 : deceased, 739. Lambertville, S, J., 612 seq. Lanphicr. J. C, 64, 65, Latkrop, Rev. II. D., 355. 489, 193. I.mvi , Arthur, 495. 504, 505. Lawrence, Rev. Wm. A.. 150, 144, 449,477,495, 5114. 055. I Rev. Alfred, d.d, 191, 192, 194,190,197. I.., . General Robert E.. 194. I to, Rev. Thos. A.. 425. Letter-writing ill r 1 1 . • army, 344. 4>>7. 4^. 500, 517. 729, 735. Libraries, ai chape] tents and Btations, 181 ti\ 724. See Loan Libraries. Lincoln, A., President, 68, 77. 94, 109, 14::. 102, 214. 215. 210. 224, 2Js. 256, 299, 527. 528, 071. Lisl of Members ami Officers -if the Christian Commission, 169, 170; of Lady Delegates, 815; ..I Lady Managers of Diet Kitchens, os2; nf Delegates, 502; corrections and addi- tions, 688; of Hi-' I'm ission at ii> close, 7:17 : "I ii. ased Members and Del 7.:s, 739. "Lizzie's Letter," 712 ... 7 Loan Libraries, 437 : plan nf. 717 teq.; nnmber, 721; examples nf u**, 721 seq*; final loca- tuii. 723. Lookout mountain, Tvim., buttlo of, 471 seq. 748 INDEXES. Lookout Valley, Tenn., 480. Loomis, Rev. Elihu, 437. Loomis, Rev. W. F.. 472. Louisville, Ky., 327. Lovell, Rev. A. S., 335. Lowell, Mass, 72. Lowrie, M. B., 436. Loyd, Rev. .T. F., 150, 329, 477, 492, 495. Lucas Ilrothers, 698. Lyford. Rev. C. P., 152, 303, 355, 404. Mackenzie, Robert, 697. McAuley. IIcv. A. G., 16S. McCabe, Rev. C. C, 173, 331, 625. McCalmont, Colonel .7. S., 117. McClelian, General George B., 89, 107,109,125, 137, 139. McCreary, R. G., 370, 386. McElroy, Wm., 350. Mcllvaine, Kev. C. P., D.D., 88, 191. Mellvaiue. O. II., 330. Mclntyre, .1. W., 152, 311, 312. McJiltr.n, Rev. J. N., D. D„ 318. McKcan. Colonel , 132. McKnight, Robert, 346. Mel 1, Rev. IL, 495, 507, 511, 515, 516. Mi Michael, Morton. 529. Magazines lor the army, 4S5. 714 seq. Maine, Auxiliaries in. 340. Manierre, B. P., 103, 104, 106, 10S, 110, 112, 113, 116, 129, 134. Marietta, Ga., 503. Marlay, Rev. .1. F.. 342. Massachusetts General Association, 200. Massachusetts Sabbath-School Society, 297, 700. Mather, S. II.. 351. Matlack, Rev. R. C. 385. Maynard, Horace, 132. Meade, General George G.. 143. 196, 239, 206. Meal tickets for soldiers, 331, 657. Meech, Rev. W. W„ 707. Meiga, M. C, Quartermaster-General U. S. A., 176, 245. Mellen, L. F., 351. Members of the Christian Commission, 169, 737. Memorial Record of the Dead, 738, 739. Memorial Record <>f the New Tork Brunch, 333, 334. 336. 523, 645. Meredith, General S. A., 15S, 159. Merrill, D. P., 349. Methodist (nr). New York. 182 Miller, II. Thane, 103,106,108. Miller, .1. R., 370, 401, 415, 419, 590. Miller, Mitchell II., SS, 99, 131. 296. Milton, Pa„ 644. Milwaukee, Wis., 352. Mine Run, Va., battle of, 396, 397, 553. Mingins, Rev. George J., 132, 173, 336, 352, 354, 359, 366, 704. Missionaries, contributions from, 532, 533. Mission Ridge, Tenn., battle of, 470 seq. Mobile, Ala., 516. Money sent home for the soldiers, 43S, 450, 451. Monfort, Rev. F. P., 580. Montgomery, Ala., 517. Monthly Reporter of British am/ Fbreign Bible Society, 2S0. M iy, I>. I... 76, 122, 152, 307, 30S, 459, 492. M -ehead, Miss Mary E., 669. Morgan County, 111., 525. Morganzia, La., 185. M.in ison. Rev. A. M., 116, 117, 119, 120, 129. Moss, Rev. Lemuel, 168, 279. Mount Holyoke Female Seminary, South Had- ley, Mass., 538. Mulford, Major John E., 158, 159, 193, 194, 195. Murfreesboro', Tenn., 459 seq. Mygatt, George, 351. Narratives of Conversions, Conant. 66, 67. Nashville, Tenn., 457 seq., 4S1 seq,, Delegates* Home. 4s3: battle of, 507, 596 xq. National Baptist (Vie), Philadelphia, 214. Navy, work in the, 153, 306, 327, 333, seq., 517. Neale, Rev. R. II., n. n., 106, 152. 248. Nelson, Thomas, 531, 697. Newark, N. J., 355. Newport, R. I., 530. Newspapers in Hie army, religious, 6S6, 707 seq.; secular, 714 seq. Newton, Rev. R., d.d., 132, 217. New Testament for each soldier in i he army. 372, 376, 460,480,485,689. New York, 79, S2, 86,87,89, 95, 1113,104,118,150, 176, 185, 297, 332, 523, 526, 696. New York Sahhath Committee, 700. Nichols, Rev. Starr, 492. Nightingale, Miss Florence, 71, 268, 269, 275, 431, 664, 666, 669, 679. Noble, Kev. T. K., 437. North American i Tlie), Philadelphia, 642. Notes on Hospitals, Miss Nightingale, 664. 669. Nursing in public hospitals, methods of, 669, Officers of the Christian Commission, 170, 737. Ogden, Joseph II., 168, 659. Olcott, Thomas »'.. 350. Oliver, Rev. R. W., 98. Orange, X. J , 75. Orange, Rev. S. J., 723. Ord, General E. 0. C, 244. Old. I, Colonel Robert, 193, 194, 198. Overland Express Company, 317. Pacific Coast, Auxiliaries on the, 352, 355, 725 Palmer, O. II., 340. Panama Railroad Company, 353. Parker, Rev. H. F, 437. If. IXDEX TO TIIF, ANNALS. rr.) Parki i. Joseph, 305. Parkes, Mi Bel !e K., 569. Persons, Rev. 11., 152,462,463. Parsons, .1. II., 312. Porvin, Rev. R. J., 280, 357, 359. Pastoral Letter of Massachusetts General Asso- cintiou, 200. Patrick, General M. R., 139, 140, 217, 241, 401, 4"::. Patterson, John, 75. Patterson, Joseph, 129, 132, 134, 152, 162. 218, 22', 289, Patterson, Rev. Robert, D.n., 76, 117, 122, 17::, 352, 354 Paulding, Admiral Hiram, 154. Pearne, Rev. I II., 181. Peloubot, Hey. F. N.,705. Peninsular i lampaign, 362, 364 seq. Penned Ivania Central Rallr 1 Company, 530. Pennsylvania troops first at Washington, 69. Peoria, III Perkins, D. W., 352. Perkins, Joseph, il Perkins, W. I ■'.. 342. i i . \ i . 146, Philadelphia, 73, 76, 57,90, 121,122,304,305.524, 520. 539 Philadelphia Ladies' Aid Society, 73 seq., 89, 90 seq . 488. PhilanUiropic Results of the War, Brockett, 82. Phillips, Philip, 217, 234, 256, 204, 279. Picket station, day's work at a, 403. Piety and patriotism, 63, 567, 578, 646. Pit h ', Ret I' 300,303,398. Pittsburg, Pa., 345, 524, 526, 669. Pittsburg Landing, Tenn., battle of, 122. Pittsburg (Pa:) Subsistence Committee, 346. Plea 1' i the ai mj for the Qospel, 206 Pleasanton, Gi oeral Alfred, 403. Poe A Hiti 1 k Cincinnati, 718, Poinl I K. .nt. Mil., 321. Point of Roi 1.- i i .il i seq., 591, 676 seq. Pollock, James, i 12, 614. Porter, Rev. Byron, 640, Port i Ethel II., 691. Rev. Jeremiah, 311. Pot ii. Mi - ,li. in ill, 311, .',01. Potts, W. 8 •!'' Powers, Ki il , 351,460. Prnyer-n tings, dally, throughont the United States, in 1867,66; daily, at tie' army Bta- i' as ol the '' -el!!. 372, 395, 399,435, 45s, 459; i ting at a flying hospital, 435, 436; in hospital wagons, 466, 407. Prayi i n m u Pi esidont Lincoln, 214. terian Board of Publication, 700. t). S.) Genera] Assembly, 205, Presbyterian Publication Committee, 700. Prcscott, George w.,349. Press, co-operation ol tho, lis, 188, 253, 347, 523. Press , 77k ,. Philadelphia, 553. i Review, 657. Prisoneni >>t war (Union), relief sent to Rich- I. in 1MVS, 150 seq.; Deputation ill 1864, 18S seg.; Colonel Ould's proposition for at- tendance and exchange, 197 ; at A tpolis, Md.,320. ,s,, CONFEDERATE SOLDIERS. 1''" lamati t Emancipation, 143. ProtestanI Episcopal Book Society, 700. Providence, R. I., 355. l'llliliialioli Societies, OSS, 090, 098, 700. Publications, first distributions in the army, 6S5; improvement in quality and style, 686; am It ami variety, 687, 688, 702, 729; Scriptures, OSS .,-,,, .- other 1 Us, 7O0; newS- papers, 7011, 7"1. 709; eagerly v*.-ic eil, 703, 734,735; distributions iu the navy, 70S seq ; "Lizzie's Letter," 712 seq.; secular papers ami magazines, 714 seq.; loan libraries, 716 seq. ; other libraries, 724: cash value of, 687, 72s. 72''. 730, 731. Publishers, i o-operation of, 485, 700, 714 >eo., 717. Quiolet, Thosi is, 328 Quimby, Prof. E. T.,646. Quint, Rev. A. II., 174. Ralston, John, 640. i: in ,i i;, >. .1. s.,723. Randolph, Lieutenant W. F., 15S. Rankin, Miss Melinda, 710,711. Rathbone, .L.lin F , 350. Ray, .lame- M., 349. Rebellion Record, Moore, 77, 82, 86, 175. " Red Tape," 555, 558. i: I Rev. Alexander, 130, 132, 139, 217,363, Refugees, Southern, 329. h. il. Rev, A. II., 17S. 179. Relief Stations, 322. 384,495. Religious awakening of 1857-'8, 63 seq. Religious character of the Commission's work, 567 seq. Rell i il- interest in He' army, 178 seq., 250, 425 seq., 434 .-■■ ./ , +11 K?., 448, 460, 461, 468 seq., 477, 4*2. 4so seq., 510, 570, 576, 579, 678. Retreat Of Wagon trains. 395. The) Nov Albany, Ind. (Hospital), 674. Review of tl"' armies I May, 1S65), 223. Reynolds, William. 330, 490, 492, 525. i . Rev. C. il . 44S, Richards, v.. 290. Ricbardson, \. D., 217. Richmond, Vs., 411. 146. Ringgold, Tenn . 190; battle of, 476. Rising, Ret Franklin, 365. Robert*, .1. it.. 8 Rochester, N. Y., 325. 750 INDEXES. Bjsdgers, C. P. R., Commander U. S. N., 70S, 709. Rodman, Rev. Washington, 335. Rosecrans, General Wm. S., 147, 148. Rowland, I,. P., Jr., 19S, 306. Runk, C. M.,529. Russell, Isaac, 328, 565, 707. Sabbath Orders of General McCIellan, 89. Sacramento, Cal., 520. St. ('. 'ge's Church, New York, 101. St. Louis, Mo., 79, 122, 22S, 311, 316 seq. St. Paul, Minn., 349. Sandwich Islands, 303. Sanford, II. I:., 653. Sanford, II. 1'., 303. San Francisco, Cal., 352, 520, 526, 725. San Joaquin County, Cal., 525. Saratoga Springs, X. Y., 143,526. Bather, P.. 353. Savannah, Ga., 505. Scarcity of supplies and great suffering, 465. Schools in the army for colored troops, 187, 442, 4.VJ >../, 711. 712: for poor children and adults. 464, 4Si> ; for refugees, 329. Scott, General Winfield, 132. Scribuer & Co., New York, 717. Scriptures, circulation in the army. 688 seq., 698, 713; distributed through the Army of the Cumberland, 460, 480, 485; through the Army of the Potomac, 297, 372. 370. Beward, Win. II., Secretary of State, 216, 217, 236. 697. Sexton, John W., 102. Shaftesbury, Karl of. 2S0, 2SS. Sharon Springs, N. Y., 615. Shearer, V. II.. 139, :;7ti, 415. Shelocta, Pa., 640. Shenandoah, Ya.. Valley of the, 517. Sheridan, Genera] Philip, 462; a day among his cavalry. 449. Sherman. General Wm. T„ 238, 490. 497, 499; among his troops, 222, 239, 335, 496 seq., 504. Si -. P. B., 87,152. Simpson, Rev. H, D.n., 132, 229. Sin- Sin-. N. Y., 540. .SV.r MotWis at (lie Wlate House. Carpenter, 528. Sloan. Rev. I. G.. 363, 304, 365, .".07. Smith. General A. .1.. ol''.. 597, >">"". Smith. Rev. E. P., 140, 141, 147. US. 149, 200, 236, 455, 456, 507, 512, 535, 557, 596, 605, 667. 60S, 707. 710. 723. Smith. Mrs. E. P . 483, 484, 513 I i i. Smith. Rev. .1. C.iD.D., 132. Smith. .1. Y. C. 151, 336. Smith, Rev. .T. Wheaton, n. n.. 217. Smyth. Isaac S„ 312. Soldiers, character of the, 577, 578; heroic endur- ance, 434, 592; motives and spirit, 046; desire for reading-matter, 685, 703 seq. ; contribu- tions from, 512, 533. See RELIdlocs Interest in the Armv. Soldiers' Aid Societies, method of, 042 seq. Soldiers' Hymn Book, the first issued, S6. Sorby, Mrs. Mary Talbot, 282. Spencer, liev. Ihvight, 336. Spottsylvania. Ya., 429, 431. Springfield, Mass.. 355. Stanton, E. M., Secretary of War, 124,131,138, 139,140. 189. 236,071,718. Station, army, appliances and method of work, 413 seq., 457, 4S6. Stationery, See Letter-whitinc in the Ar.MT. Statistical Tables,— Treasurer's Reports, 151. 162, 218,239; cash receipts and expenditnsas at the sever;, 1 offices, 1 (',:;, 219, 290, 726, 7J7, 730 ; amount and value of stores and publications received and distributed, 136, 163, 104, 219, 220. 291, 087, 6SS. f28: summary of ,;,l„,.s, 135. 164, 221, 292, 729, 730 ; summary of 1, l ,. is and distributions, 135, 104, 221. 292, 729. 730. Steele, Rev. David, 118. Ste\.iis, Geo. T.. Surgeon V. S. A.. 188. SteveuBon, Tenn.. 462. Stewart. Rev. A. M., 174. Stillsoii, .7. II.. 385. Stivers, Rev. T. S., 514. Stockbridge, Rev. J.. 709. Stoneman's Station, Ya.. 377, 399. Stone River. Tenn.. battle of, 14.".. 455, ISO. Storer, Bellamy. 342. Stores, defined, 639; first packages sent to the army. 039. 040; cash value of tho>.- seat by the Commission. 041, 728. 729, 750; rapid increase of donations, 641: labor of their collection. 642, 730; activity ^i smaller towns, 042. 043: method of collecting, 042 seq.; each linkage ami article had a history, 645 seq., 735, 736: variety and i|iiniilil\ . 411. 64S seq. ; 054, 001, 079. 680; use m Delegate's work. 12S, 313, 343, 560, 653 seq. : burned by m bels, 404. Story. Joseph, 217, 306. Stout, A. V., 117. Strawn, Jacob, 525. Street, Rev. Geo. E„ 399. Strickland, Rev. W. P., 97. Stuart. Geo. II., S2. 90, 96, 102, 103, 106, 10S, 109, 110, 115, 123. 12S, 129, 150. 151. 152. 154. 152, ISO. 190, 191. 192, 198. 200, 21.'.. 21T. 229 J3 5 250. 27". 2sn. 29s, 545, 52o. 531, 550, 688, ' ; '2 Summary of the Commission's work, 725 cash receipts 726; cash expenditures, 727: stores and publications, 72S: total receipts and values. 729; total labors I distribu- tions, 729: of the entire work. 730; com- parisons. 75,1 seq. : reflections, 751 seq. Summer work in the army. 420 seq. : in an active campaign, 427 seq. II. INDEX TO THE ANNUS. 751 SUioo! / I, 183,234,622,527. Sutherland, J. W., 79, Button, Rev. J. V., 152, 330. Tayior, Rev. Geo., 348. Taylor, II. K.. 349. 'i iyloi Re\ John C, 335. Caylor, Rev. W. II., 336. Taylor, Rev. W.J. R., B.D.,73, 74, 132,234,688, 689, 690, 694. Texas, work in, 228, 311, 316 «?., 454, 517. Thanksgiving Day ai ig the soldiers, 320, 470. Thanksgiving Day collections, 143, 524, 525. Thayer, c. 314. i , II ii. v. 304. Thomas, Rev. E Thomas, G ml ml Geo. II.. 242,485, 513,715, 718. Thoi Rev. .1 I 18 ■ .12, 714. 715,716,717. Thomps Rev. J. P., d.i>., 651. Th psou, Rci M L. II. P., D.B., 106, 152. Thompson, Rev. 0. C, 303. /,,,. ). trstnltii Sixth Corpt % Stevens, 186. i John, 296. Tit knor, Edwin, S12. Tilt, .ii. Theodore, lis. Tlsdalc. Rev. W. I... 426, 137. r E. S., 103,1 12, 167, 198,306,307. Todd, Chas. S , 849 Toledo, "in". ; fl I.. in, hi. Choinas, 304. Tomali . i'.iI . 538. n R ibert C, 346. i I Colonel E. D., 190, 191. ' Boston, 685. Trad Society of the Methodist Church, 700. ortc for Bupplies, 410, 419. Troops in the field al Commission's close, 228. .I, Trustees of the Christian Commission, 229. Tucker, John, 136. Tnllah i, Trim.. 514. k. G.,330 i. v. a I!.. D.D.,106, 108,132. ■ Rev. S. H., Jr., 86, 108. United States Christian Commission, mi Hi- ii. 108; appointed, l"",. '-IT ; con- stitu i- mi. I first oflicors, 106; first circular, 106; Executive Committee ap- pointed, 108; meota In Washington, 108; il ' ndi i hi. Ins. 109 : first \ i>it to inv. 109, 110, 2)7, 248; head [U irtcri in Now York, HO; first published Plan of Oj rot ii". ill; vagueness of first pnr- iiU adapted Etaell toi hangin exigeni ' ill [ved with indif- LI" ... changes am D i to fl '. ■ ■ ' nt 124 MIST FWnIt AN). I l, 1! I ties; facilltiefl l'i i porati i I socie. ties, 126,— see Corporations; Publication E hies, etc.; increasing publii favor, 127 ; two prominent features, 128; improvement of organization, 128, — tee I'mi, Oroaniza- tion; Home Organization ; removal •.! head- quarters to Philadelphia, 128, 129; further changes among officers, 129, ISO; first anni- versary, 132; statistics foi L862, 134, 135; in- crease ot operations, 142; improved methods in field work, in teq.; extensl 1 the work Westward, 1)7: horn ganization, 151,153; imp, .Hunt meeting, 152; statistics for 1863, 162 nde if the work in L864, 165, 198; enlarge nt of the C mi<- Bion, 166 S''t/.; aev measures [regulations, I7'i teg. ; I lonvontion oi W estern Dranohes, 187; attempted relief of Union prisoners, 188 teq.; commendation by ecclesiastical bodies,205; third a ;il meeting, 218, 216; last interview with President I. in,, In. 214; statistics ftjr 1864, 21 t 1S65, 222: Becond Convention ot Western Branches, 225; official action for terminating opera, tions. 22t", ap] ol Trustees, 229; final d ting of . tl I - mittee, 230; final ting ol the C mis- sion, 231; "Parting Words," 232; closing anniversary, 233 teq,; statistics fox 1865, 289 teq.; Bummary of work, 725, — see Sum- mary; list of membersand offici re, 169, 170; members and officers, January 1, 1 166, 787 ; ,1 osed members and Del gatei ' 38, 739. United States Sanitarj Commi - 74.77,117. 160, 165, 188, 189, 207, 238, 239, 240, 250, 268, 311,47,7, 47 J 194,4' i21, 657, 658, 669, 660, 674, 697. I mt\ of national feeling and pnrp ise, 566, 567. I prising "I the people, kpril, 1861, 6S, 24s. i ii .i N Y„ 355. Vernon, FIarwoob, B6, 103, 104. Volunteer labors in the army, necessity for, 551-563. Wai don's Ridge, Tenn., 465, 466. Walker, B. C, 152,348. Wanamaker, John, 102, 103, 104. Ward, D. I).. Ms. Wi.ii, I,, Rev. I. P., 711. . \ , ■■. I 96, 426. Wash 19, 83, ss, mt. 296, 297, 298. Washington City Bible 9 ty, 297. Waterbnry, Rev J. II. . D.D., 826. Welles, Gideon, Secretary of the Mai IV, Us, Rev. Shepard, ",14. Western Branches, Conventions of, 187, 22 \\ estern Plains, work on the,! ■ . -''17. Western Sanitarj Commission 228, I -'. .13, 498. 752 INDEXES. Weston, Rev. David, 570, 574. W( vi, i.ui, Wm. P., 346, 347. Wheeling, West Va, 357. Whipple, General Wm. D., 513, 718. White House, Va., 419. White, Norman, 118. 119, 191, 192. Whitney, Mr*. Kate M., 532. " Wilderness," Va., battles of the, 416 seq., 428. Williams, It. S., 355. Williams, Rev. K. F., 150, 370, 384, 407, 412. 415, 427, 436, 448, 452, 660. Williams, Rev. Wm. R., D.D., 85. Winchester, Tenn., 461. Windmill Puint (Va.) Hospital, 375, 398. Winter quarters, work in, 411, 422; plan of tin- stations, 413 seq. ; in an artillery brigade, 425. Witt. SUllnian, 351. Wittenmyer, Mrs. Annie, 344, 48S, 663, 666, 667, ■ 670, 671, 672, 674, 675, 676, 677, 681. W 1. R. C-, Assistant Surgeon-General U. S. A., 80, 670. Wnolsey, the Misses, 94. Woman's work in the war, 69, 70, 233, 275, 276, 3:.4, 356, 385, 539, 645. 656 seq. See Ladies' Christian Commissions; Diet Kitciien Ser- vice. Women's Central Association for Relief, 75, 76,7". Wright, Edward F.. 601. Wright, Wm. D.. 698. Wyckoff, J. D., 556. Vavni, Antonius. 533. Young Men's Christian Associations, — Baltimore, Md., 79, 318. Boston, Mass, 87, 95, 97, 104, 121, 305. Brooklyn, N. Y, 95, 101, 325. Buffalo, N. Y., 323. Chicago, 111., 75, 76, 122, 308. Louisville, Ky., 328. New York, N. Y., 79, 82, 86, 87, 89, 95, 103, 104, 118, 176, 287. Peoria, 111., 330. Philadelphia, Pa., 75, 87, 121, 122, 304. St. Louis, Mo., 122, 311. St. Paul, Minn., 349. Troy, N. Y., 701. Washington, D. C, 69, 83, 88, 97, 297, 298, 299. Convention for appointing the Christian Commission, 99 seq., 103 seq. " Your Mission," a song, 217, 256. ORGANIZED, NOVEMBER 15, 1861. ^A% CLOSED ITS LABORS, JANUARY 1, 1866.