Raynors HCA 2017-02
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/23/2017
A rare account of Dr. Gridley's sermon and coming to grips over Lincoln's death as seen through the eyes of Pvt. George S. Youngs' sister, Louisa Youngs, 4pp. 4to., Waterloo, [N. Y.], April 24, 1865, to her soldier brother, in part: "…"…what all important events…the last three or four weeks have witnessed and what a horrible tragedy was the last act in the drama…I could not, if I tried, express the feelings of horror, consternation and grief I experienced when I realized…when I knew it was true. It has been called a strange providence and I was almost irreverent…in my thoughts [to say] such a crime to providence?…Dr. Gridley's sermon on Thursday was a very consolatory one though his voice trembled on the words. He said he had never felt himself so inadequate to the occasion if his duties could be reduced to those of the private citizen…it would much better comfort [him] with his feelings but he had his duty to perform and he must say what he could to improve the occasion…he tried to show us how the wrath of man had been made to praise him…he said among other things perhaps it was necessary that we should know just what slavery was in all its barbarism and cruelty. He thought the killing of Union men by their neighbors for no other crime than their love for the dear old flag, the systematic cruel treatment of Union prisoners and lastly the vile under which was certainly committed…must have opened the eyes of all…In thought I would try to give you some of his reasons for thinking the wrath of man might be made to praise God in the death of our beloved President…he said when we remembered what a "charmed life" his had been, obliged as he was to go to the Capitol in disguise surrounded as he had been by spies, all the years he had performed the duties of Chief Magistrate. We must believe his life had been preserved until his work was done and that he had at last been permitted to die a martyr to his principles…our church is still draped with mourning, perhaps will be for some time. In the Presbyterian church a picture of Mr. Lincoln was hung over the pulpit an another in the hall. Thomas has been trying to make the envelope. I meant to send this in a mourning one. but in the midst of all our mourning we must not forget to be grateful for the bright prospects of peace…your affectionate sister, Louisa Youngs." Light soiling, else VG
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