"It is particularly agreeable to us to see that you, illustrious and
honorable President, and your good people, are animated with the
same desire of peace and tranquillity which we have in our letters
inculcated upon our venerable brothers. May it please God at the same
time to make the other people of America and their ruler, reflecting
seriously how terrible is civil war, and what calamities it engenders,
listen to the inspiration of a calm spirit, and adopt resolutely the
part of peace.
"As for us, we shall not cease to offer up the most fervent prayers
to God Almighty that He may pour out upon all the people of America
the Spirit and peace and charity, and that He will stop the great
evils which afflict them. We at the same time beseech the God of pity
to shed abroad upon you the light of His countenance and attach you
to us by a perfect friendship.
"Given at Rome, at St. Peter's, the third of December, 1863, of our
Pontificate 18.
"(Signed) Pius IX."
The dark hour was swiftly approaching when the South and her leader
would need the prayers of all God's saints.
Failing to persuade Bragg to reconsider his resignation, Davis appointed
General Hardee as his successor to command the Western army.
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