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Letters: July 18, 1861
1861, July 18 George Guion, Ridgefield, La., to Bishop Polk, re: an expression of astonishment over the Bishop's acceptance of the appointment in the Army - many remarks about the unexpected news; stating further that he believed him to be right and correct in his decision - that it was his duty before God to exercise his talent in this way; thanking him heartily for taking upon himself the responsibility; wishing too that he had a military education so as to be able to come to his aid. 4 pp.
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Ridgefield Louisiana July 18 [unclear]1861[/unclear]. My dear Bishop, I feel assured that knowing me as you do, you will acquit me of a lack of friendship when I say that the news of your appointment to the office of Maj. Genl. in the Army of the Confederate States filled me with despair & astonishment. It was so unexpected & seemed at first, so incompatible with your sacred calling & high position in the Church of God that I was completely overwhelm- ed, for awhile, by a tumult of conflicting emotions. But although a feeling of right was continually present which I thought of it, still was I prompted by my long and intimate acquaintance with you, to doubt the correctness of
