January 19, 1964: J. L. Withrow to John Riddle Warner

Rev. John Riddle Warner was the grandfather of the poet Marianne Moore and during the Civil War, he lived in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. These letters are preserved as part of Marianne Moore’s family papers.

Transcript:

Abington Pa. Jan. 19^th 1864

Rev John R. Warner—

Gettysburg Pa.

My dear Bro:

I notice by the Presbyterian than you are delivering lectures upon the Battle of Gettysburg as witnessed by yourself, in Mr McElwer’s Ch. Phila.

I am exceedingly anxious to have a lecture or two delivered in my church for the benefit of our Ladies aid Soc.

I graduated last spring at Princeton & accepted a call to this Pres. Ch. Of Abington succeeding good father, Dr Steel of Sainted Memory. I found the church strongly agitated upon the great questions of political party which are agitating the public. The church was upon the point of disruption. We have many strong Democrats. It was because my friends hoped that I could pacify the ch. that I declined a better call & came. My first object was to be known as an uncompromising Union Man in order to make [illeg.] square upon the record of loyalty. Then next I wished with this to allay the excitement on the minds of these Democrats. God has signally encouraged me. But it was not by shutting my mouth. I have talked & worked for the good cause. Our Ladies Aid Soc was in a dead condition. We have revived it; & by many expedients have succeeded in making some worthy contributions to the Christn Commission

The neighbouring societies have been holding Fairs until they have rather run down.

We have concluded to have a few lectures delivered.

We are only nine miles out of the city on Nth Penna RR which makes but a short ride.

Bro Warner would you consent to come up, & give us a helping hand? I see the next Lecture in Phila is published for Jan 28. If it would suit you to come on Friday the next eve out here we could have it so arranged. And if you would remain & have another Saturday even or come again as you might elect, it would be very gratifying. I do not know Brother whether we can get a very large audience. perhaps not; but then a good representation will be made, & some poor shivering soldier maybe made warm & happy in consequence—some bare heart be cheered who may go forth & stroke the final blow that will disarm rebellion & enthrone the majesty of law.

I should be exceedingly happy to hear from you at your earliest convenience. If the day I name will not suit, & another would, why please name it. I am exceedingly anxious to hear your description of those days which tried men’s Souls

Yours in the precious Savior

J.L. Withrow

Citation: J.L. Withrow, autograph letter signed to John Riddle Warner. Abington, Pa., 19 January 1864. Moore VI:6:1