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The Charles P. McIlvaine letters were written in the 18th and 19th century and therefore may contain language that we understand today as harmful or offensive. You may encounter paternalist descriptions of Native Americans, racial slurs, or sexism. For more information, see our policy page.
Description
Tullidge consents to come. Son Charles doing well. As to being "decently habited" - custom has been to wear gown and not surplice. "Surplice indicates a kind of 'divinity' which we very much dislike."
ISBN
KMcI 631027
Date
10-27-1863
Keywords
letter, McIlvaine, Bedell, Tullidge, family
Recommended Citation
McIlvaine, Charles Pettit, "Letter to Bishop Bedell" (1863). Charles Pettit McIlvaine Letters. 96.
https://digital.kenyon.edu/mcilvaine_letters/96
Rights Statement
Transcript
Cinc. Oct 27 1863
My dear Bishop-
Yours of the 25th recd today. The same mail brought one from Mr. [Tullidge[, giving his consent. We have great reason for thankfulness that the vacancy has been obtained so kindly on Dr. Sumther’s part + fitted so formally as we have cause to believe + so p[?] I have written Dr. Sumther of the nomination + acceptance. Your account of the Pres. + Rector is cheering. I agree with you that Charles’ position is trying but he understand it + will stand on his own feet. I think Mr. Robbins + Mr. C. perfectly understand the proper course on their part. As yet he has had no aid from either, except in the administration of the Communion. He has taken a liking for after days + goes to spend them at Gambier, having taken cold + needing the relief.
I hope Mr. LEavitt will get his papers in time. By the way, about being “decently [huddled]” of candidates for ordination. It is important that whatever we propose, we should observe the same rule, + as the custom in this Diocese has always been to use the gown + not the surplice, + it is one which I have strong indisposition to change, especially as in certain directions there is such itching for surplicial display under the idea that it is a mark of very special Churchmanship, + indicates a sort of diversity which we very much dislike; I hope you will always adopt in ordination the same decent [belief?].You must be willing to be thought as bad as I. My kindest regards to Mr. Leavitt, + the Goddards, + all at [Lawrenceville].
Don’t be uneasy about the change of command in the Cumberland army. Thomas is a superior man to [Rosecrans]. The latter has been over-extended. It is no dishonor to a man to say that he comes short of the ability to command an army of 70,000 men.
Yours affectionately
Chas.P.McIlvaine