May 4.—Yesterday we had quite a grand wedding in the place. Dr. Devine led to the altar Dr. Calhoun’s eldest daughter. Dr. Quintard came from Atlanta to perform the ceremony, which took place in the Presbyterian Church, at 11 o’clock, A. M. The church was darkened, and lighted with lamps and candles, which did not burn very brightly. I thought the sunlight would have been in much better taste. There were nine bridesmaids, and the same number of groomsmen. Many of the latter came from the army for the occasion, as that number of young men, I do not expect, could be raised in the whole county. And, indeed, they were not all young men; I noticed one or two of our married surgeons among them. On looking at the ladies dresses, which were made of new Swiss muslin, I could not keep from wondering how much it had cost, and where such a quantity had come from. The article is very scarce at present; the last I heard of cost fifty dollars per yard. The whole scene at the wedding was quite pretty and impressive. I believe that this is the first time that an Episcopal clergyman in full canonicals has officiated in this place. I have been told that nearly all of the mules and carriage horses at the wedding were taken by an impressing officer. He kindly permitted the owners to ride home before taking them from them. It is said that he had heard of the affair, and laid in wait so the people could not hide them.
Dr. Quintard and Mrs. Harrison spent the previous evening with us. He has built a new church in Atlanta. Mrs. H. asked him how he procured the materials for it. He said that he paid a visit to a nail factory near it, preached once or twice, and baptized some children. He was then presented with as many nails as he needed. I believe he procured the lumber in the same manner. He told us that there had been a great religious revival throughout the whole army, many being converted and joining the church. Nearly all of our leading generals have joined. Bishop Lay, from Arkansas, is with the army, and is doing much good in winning souls to Christ.
Last evening Dr. Q. preached to a large audience in the Methodist Church, from the text, “Be sure your sin will find you out.” The sermon was very impressive. At its close Rev. Mr. Smith offered up an appropriate prayer.
Dr. Gamble has left this post. He has been appointed chief surgeon of General Anderson’s division. The general is now in Florida. We all regret Dr. Gamble’s leaving. Dr. Wible of Kentucky is his successor, and is very highly spoken of.
We have another hospital added to this post—the Gamble, so called in honor of Dr. G. It is our old ward, the Springs. Dr. Devine is surgeon; Mrs. Dr. Wildman and a Miss Rigby are the matrons—both excellent ladies.
