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before God,” and accordingly issued a proclamation, in which he said:
A tone of earnest piety has pervaded our people, and the hundred victories which we have obtained over our enemies have been justly ascribed to Him who ruleth the universe.
We had hoped that the year would have closed upon a scene of continued prosperity, but it has pleased the Supreme Disposer of Events to order it otherwise.
We are not permitted to furnish an exception to the rule in divine government which has prescribed affliction as the discipline of nations, as well as of individuals.
Our faith and perseverance must be tested, and the chastening which seemeth grievous will.
if rightfully received, bring forth its appropriate fruits.
It is meet and right, therefore, that we should repair to the only Giver of all victory, and humbling ourselves before him, should pray that he may strengthen our confidence in his mighty power and righteous judgment.
Then may we surely trust in him, that he will perform his promise, and encompass us as with a shield in this trust.
The day following, 22d of February,
Jefferson Davis was inaugurated, and closed his address in the following words:
With confidence in the wisdom and virtue of those who will share with me the responsibility, and aid me in the conduct of public affairs, securely relying upon the patriotism and courage of the people, of which the present war has furnished so many examples, I deeply feel the weight of the responsibilities I now, with unaffected diffidence, am about to assume; and fully realizing the inadequacy of human power to guide and to sustain, my hope is reverently fixed on Him whose favor is ever vouchsafed to the cause which is just.
With humble gratitude and adoration, acknowledging the Providence which has so visibly protected the Confederacy
