Rensselaer Republican, Volume 13, Number 35, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 19 May 1881 — Why Lincoln Appointed Him. [ARTICLE]

Why Lincoln Appointed Him.

The Rev. James Bhrigley, who is well known here, was appointed by President Lincoln a hospital chaplain during the war. Pending his confirmation by the United State Senates, a self-constituted oommittee of the Young Men’s Christian Association called on the President te protest against the appointment. After Mr. Snrigley’s name had been mentioned, the President said: “Oh, yes, I have sent it to the Senate. His testimonials are highly satisfactory, and the appointment will no doubt be confirmed at an early day.” The young men replied: “But, iiir, we have come not to ask for the apbut to solicit you to withdraw the nomination on the ground that Mr. Shrtgley is not evangelical in his sentiments.” “Ah!” said the President; “that aljters the case, Qn what part of doctrine is the gentleman unsound ?” “He does not believe in endless punishment,” was the reply. “Yes,” added another or the committee, “he believes that even the rebels themselves, will finally be saved, aud it will never do to have a man with suoh views hospital chaplain.” j, The President hesitated to reply for a moment, and then responded with an emphasis they will long remember. “If that be so gentlemen, and there be any way under heaven whereby the rebels can he saved, then for God’s sake let the man be appointed!” He was appointed.— Reading (Pa.) News.