July 27, 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:

Head Qrs 121st Regt P.V.
July 27, 1863
Camp at Warrenton Jntn

Dear Julia

I have written you a long account of the Gettysburg battles as regards our participation in them – Keep it with the letters I have sent to you – I have been doing nothing all today – the regiment has Come in from picket and we expect to march probably towards Bealeton tomorrow– I dont exactly comprehend present operations– I think Meade had better be prudent and take up positions where he will invite attacks – if he Can get the rebels to do so he will beat them always  the history of the war waged near the Potomac has been pretty much that the attacking party failed when there had been deliberate preparation on both sides– How I wish it was over and we Could hope for peace and an early settlement.  You see what a mistake I have made at the foot of the sheet from the dim light I now write it – I trust we may be Kept and guided by our heavenly father in all our trials and lead again to peaceful days and pursuits in his fear and favor – Give love to dear Aleck – I think the natatorium  a very good place for him if some trustworthy person is always with him.  he is an impulsive adventurous little body and I fear will gain his experience with some rash adventures – which I have hoped to be enough with him to enable him to avoid and hope God may grant me permission through his bountiful mercy to be the means of helping you in training up our little ones.  Good bye dearest and best of wives.  I trust Uncle is again perfectly restored to health and strength.  Give love to him and say how often I think of you.
Your loving husband
Alexander

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle. 27 July 1863. Rush IV:30:33