[from the diary of the Rev. Francis E. Butler, chaplain of the 25th New Jersey]

Fri. 31 – A fair lovely day.  The regt. inspected & mustered
for paying off.   a hot tiresome job – Lt. Penrose who
inspected us – diner with us also Capt Champion &
his Lieuts – Called meetg. of Ch. committee in mess
Tent – tonight every man but one present – he was on
guard – very harmonious – resolved on communion
once a month, an prayer meetg; by Co. once a week
Sunday Schools – form of Ch adminis.  &c.  &c.
After meetg. a soldier came to show me his pastors
letter & then his sweetheart’s & her likeness –
As I was shutting my tent for night a soldier
seemed lingering outside – I asked him in  – found
him seeking Christ   counseled & prayed with him
he appeared earnest – solemn & tender.  May he find
the Lamb of God – is sweet moonlight night.
Such cases as this are the most important & delightful I have.

[transcript by Mary Roy Dawson Edwards]

MSS 12935