August 4, 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)

Tuesday August 4^th We have remained in the same place to day the weather very hot – as hot as possible – We have heard some distant firing of Artillery every day – this afternoon it was nearer and shells Could be seen exploding about 3 miles off – towards night it became quiet – We had a light shower and some lightning and thunder – We don’t comprehend what movements are on foot – indeed if any are – and are not anxious for any unusual exertion in such weather – I have had great reason to be thankful for the mercies of health and protection extended to me by our heavenly father and I trust in his good providence that they will soon result in an honorable return to my beloved wife and children never more to leave them and our good Uncle I cannot conceive why the Rebel leaders should so pertinaciously cling to their broken hopes – it must be evident to them that they are placing themselves daily in a far worse position as their forces are broken – than they would be if they were to be conciliatory now may our heavenly father incline all our hearts to justice towards our foes if he should please to give success to our cause – God bless you my beloved Wife Your loving husband

Alexander

Citation: Alexander Biddle (1819-1899), autograph letter signed to Julia Williams Rush Biddle, 4 August 1863. Rush IV:30:34