August 24, 1863:Alexander Biddle to Julia Williams Rush Biddle

Alexander Biddle was a member of the prominent Philadelphia Biddle family and was married to Julia Williams Rush,  the granddaughter of Dr. Benjamin Rush.  Biddle served with the 121st Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, beginning in September 1862. Starting out as a major, he would participate in Fredericksburg and Gettysburg, among other engagements, and would leave the service as a lieutenant colonel. (He was commissioned, but never mustered, as colonel)

Transcript (excerpt):

Monday August 24, 1863

Camp at Rappahannock Station Virg

Dear Julia

Night before last Genl Rowley arrived and yesterday morning I again ceased to be Regimental Commander being now only 2^nd in command – I have nothing much to say for every thing is exceedingly monotonous – Yesterday we had church in the 142^nd Camp A member of the Christian Commission Conducting the services I am very much disheartened about my position and prospects – it seems such folly for a Colonel and Lieut Col to be eating up Govt means without a single Company in point of numbers on the ground – I have had a little trouble with my teeth and have hoped we would move back so that I might get a chance to fly off for a few days – I now and then think of you and get very very home sick especially with an uncertain future before me – I met with a quotation from Thos a Kempies the other day which may be good for both of us – It was somehow thus – “To always wish that the will of God may be faithfully performed in us.” – Whether a comfort in trial or preparation first it seemed to me very appropriate. We have enjoyed his bounties very much and we may hope by always keeping his Will in mind in all we think and speak or do that thy will be continued to us…

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle, 24 August 1863. Rush IV:30:34