Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 39.djvu/150

 138 Southern Historical Society Papers.

August 5. — 1 preached in Grace Church, BerryviUe, and con- firmed 12, three of whom were from WickHffe Parish.

August 6. — ^The Rev. Mr. Perkms, who travelled with me, and rendered me most acceptable service, being disabled by sickness, the Rev. J\lr. Jones accompanied me for a few days. It was our intention to visit Charlestown ; but as we approached, we learned that the Federal forces were then entering the town. We therefore left it to our right and passed on to A'liddletown. Here we were kindly received by Dr. Nelson, at whose resi- dence T had, in the evening, the privilege of uniting in social worship with some of the congregation, who assembled there on hearing of our arrival. This parish had, for more than a year, been without a minister, and as the good people there were desirous of an opportunity to unite in the services of the Church, I readily consented to officiate for them on my return.

The next morning (Sunday) we made an early start, and proceeded through a desolated and apparently deserted country to Shepherdstown, into which, as we could obtain no informa- tion by the way. we entered with some anxiety, uncertain by which army it was occupied. A¥e found it in the possession of a few Confederates, but as the Union troops in large num- ber were known to be only a few miles distant, and their ad- vance expected, it was suggested that Ave might be interrupted in our proposed services, and subjected to inconvenient deten- tion. We concluded, however, to venture upon the experiment. The bell was rung, and the congregation assembled. The Rev. Mr. Jones read prayers. Whilst I was preaching a note was handed to the Rector informing him that the Federal forces were approaching the town. I was not willing to leave the Church without confirming those who were desirous to ratify their baptismal vow. Descending to the chancel and calling them around me, I administered the apostolic rite to ten per- sons. The service was of peculiar interest, and I am sure will not soon be forgotten by those whom it specially concerned, or by those by whom it was witnessed.