William W. Bennett, A narrative of the great revival which prevailed in the Southern armies during the late Civil War

[388] I had chosen my position; and then, without any formality, but without the slightest levity, they took their seats on their oil-cloths or blankets, against the trees, on projecting roots or rude stools, or on anything that would be a protection from the damp earth — some even taking off their coats or hats to sit on. Nor did they sit as in churches at home (for surely that was a church and a fit temple likewise), only in front of the speaker; but crowding near him and all around him, and near one another, they seemed to think that there was influence and warmth in contact, and that the words of the speaker would become cold were they at any distance. My gravity was very nearly upset, my lips twitched, when a kind-hearted brother (I hope he will excuse this) spoke quite authoritatively to his comrades, ‘ Stand back, boys, give the young man walking room; he can't shout.’ Not being one of the ‘shouting’ sort, I didn't need perhaps as much space; but I was always obliged for ‘walking room.’

Let not the skeptical reader think that the religion of such worshippers was without depth and power. Many of them were, it is true, plain, unlettered men, but in sincerity and faith they have hardly ever been surpassed. “Can I do anything for you?” said a missionary, kneeling by a dying soldier. “Yes; write to my wife,” was the feeble reply. “What shall I write?” In a whisper he replied, “Say to my dear wife it's all right.” The words were written Gown. “What more shall I write?” said the minister. “Nothing else-all's right,” and then he died. He was converted in the army.

Out in an old stable lay a number of wounded men. Among them was a man whose head was frosted with years. The minister approached him and said, “My friend, you are an old man. Do you enjoy the comforts of religion?” “O yes,” replied the poor fellow, “I have been a member of the Church for 25 years. Often in our little church at home the minister told us that religion ”