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of my labors for the four weeks ending to-day, that I have labored as the representative of your board.
I have preached twenty-one sermons, distributed 7,000 pages of tracts, witnessed thirty-six immersions, and aided in the examination of twentynine candidates for admission into our Church; besides, quite a number gave their names, wishing to join other denominations.
My labors were in
Cobb's Legion of Cavalry,
Colonel Cutt's Artillery Battalion, and the brigades of
Daniel,
Ramseur, Battle and
Doles, but mostly in the last-named, which is composed of
Georgia troops.
I found a great work of grace in progress in
General Doles' Brigade, which had been increasing in interest for several weeks, under the preaching and labors of
Brother A. M. Marshall, of
Georgia, aided by such help as he could get from other chaplains and visiting ministers.
I remained with him
as a recruit for two weeks, preaching once and sometimes twice a day in
Doles' Brigade, and others in camps near by. I found in
General Battle's Brigade, for which I preached twice, a precious revival spirit.
Large and attentive crowds came to listen to preaching, and by fifties would flock around us for prayers.
I can't forbear to mention, as one blessed feature of the work,
the reclaiming of backsliders. Quite a number of cases came under my notice.
Then again, many good, pious brethren, who had not fallen into gross sins, but had been backward in expressing themselves, feel as if a great pressure had been taken off them, and they not only
breathe easier, but can now
speak out for the Saviour.
But I forbear making further comment now, as I have many I could make, and will perhaps offer them for the public eye, in some of our religious papers.
My excuse for not doing more this month is, that I was indisposed a few days the first week, so as not to be able to work.
, says: ‘There were two brothers, one a colonel, the other a captain, lying side by side, and both wounded.
They had a Bible between them.’
, in a private letter from the Army of Northern Virginia, to a member of his Church,
, says: ‘Were it not for separation from my dear family, I never was so happily situated in my life.
I would rather be ’