The Union Prayer Meeting will be held tomorrow (Sunday) afternoon, in the Baptist Church, Chestnut street above Fourth, commencing at 3 o'clock. Also during the week—on Thursday and Saturday evenings—at the same place, commencing at 7 1/2 o'clock. All persons are invited to attend.
Another Berks county soldier has fallen in defence of the Stars and Stripes. William Fox of Robesonia, died at the Military Hospital at Harrisburg, on Friday of last week. His remains were brought home and buried on Sunday last. He belonged to the 12th Regiment Pennsylvania Reserves, and was in thirteen battles, in two of which he was wounded. The first wound he received at the battle of Drainesville, where he was the only one wounded in the Regiment. His second wound, and the one which proved fatal, was received at the battle of Antietam, Md. He was struck by a Minnie ball about two inches above the heart. Mr. Fox was a young man, 23 years old.
Reading RiflesThe following is a list of prisoners taken by the enemy from Co. E, 46th Regiment, most of whom have either been paroled or exchanged:
| John Wilford | Front Royal | May 24th |
| David E. Snyder | Winchester | May 25th |
| Albert Birch | " | " |
| Wm. B. Hoffmaster | " | " |
| Daniel Rothenberger | Cedar Mountain | Aug. 9 |
| William Barron | " | " |
| Henry Paft | " | " |
| John S. Brown | " | " |
| Jordan Coller | " | " |
| Henry Geiger | " | " |
| Levi Hildebrand | " | " |
Letters are constantly being received at headquarters, Harrisburg, in relation to the manner of making out muster rolls of companies of militia that were reported and arrived at Harrisburg under the late call of the Governor. The names and residences of officers and men are all that is required, and when thus filled up should be forward to Adjutant General A.L. Russel, Harrisburg, where they will be ready for further reference when required.
At a staffed meeting of Councils, held on Saturday evening last, resolutions appropriate money were passed as follows, viz:
| To repair Helltown road | $150.00 |
| To finish 2d St. from Franklin to Washington | 250.00 |
| One years rent, City Hall | 200.00 |
| Farmers' Bank Loan | 3,000.00 |
| H. & J. Miller, smithwork | 3.82 |
| J.H. Deysher, lumber | 2.00 |
| To make gutter in north 6th St. | 80.00 |
| To extend the wall at junction 2d and Canal Sts. | 75.00 |
| To make gutter on north side Bingaman St. | 25.00 |
| To make gutter on both sides Wood Alley, between Pine and Bingaman Sts. | 50.00 |
The following resolutions were passed:
Resolved, By the Select and Common Councils, that a committee of five be appointed, one from Select and four from Common Councils, whose duty it shall be to inquire into the propriety of appropriating money to relieve such families as they may find in needy circumstances and whose husbands or fathers are now or will hereafter be serving in the army of their country, and if in their judgment, they find it necessary to report an ordinance at the next stated meeting of the Councils in reference thereto.
Resolved, That whenever the President of the Select Council is informed of the persons who are legally entitled to the bounty of $50 from the city of Reading by virtue of an ordinance passed and approved Sept. 8, A.D. 1862, it shall be the duty of the President and Clerk of the Select Council to issue warrants in the name of such persons who are entitled to receive the same, and that the committee on Finance are hereby authorized and instructed to make a temporary loan for such amount as may be required to meet the demand on the Treasurer.
Dr. Luther, Collector of Taxes for the district has received a letter of instructions with regard to Brewers, &c., which we subjoin. It explains itself:
Treasury Department Office of Internal Revenue
October 11th 1862
Sir: Your letter of 10th instant has been received. No instruments for the use of inspectors of spirits will be furnished from this office. The inspectors are expected to provide themselves with all instruments necessary to their occupation.
Brewers must pay duty upon all malt liquor sold or removed for consumption or sale since September 1st, without reference to the price obtained for it.
You are expected strictly to follow the Laws with respect to the size of packages used by brewers.
It is provided by Section 50th, that a package containing one sixth of a barrel shall be accounted one 1uarter and one twelfth of a barrel shall be accounted one eighth.
Very respectfully,
E.F. Estee, for Commissioner, Diller Luther, Esq., Collector 8th Dist of Penn'a., Reading, PA.
We learn that Samuel Finkbone, a private in Capt. Newkirk's Company, 128th Regiment, P.V. and who was killed in the battle at Harrisburg was brought to his former home in Leesport, on Tuesday last and was interred on Saturday. Only a few short weeks ago we met him in the streets of this city, on his way to join the army, and in reply to our wishing him a safe return, he said that if he should never return he could not die in a better cause. He was respected in his neighborhood by all who knew him. He leaves a wife and one child to mourn his death.—Press.
The vacancies in the officers of the 93d Reg't P.V. have been filled up by promotion. Our gallant townsman, Capt. John E. Arthur has been made Lieutenant Colonel, and Capt. John Mark, of Lebanon, Major. Rev. J.M. McCarter, continues in his position as Colonel. The soldiers speak of Lieut. Col. Arthur in the highest terms. He has as we learn, been virtually in command of the Regiment for some time and acquitted himself with great credit in every battle in which the Regiment was engaged.
Capt. Geo. W. Durell, commander of the Battery bearing his name, arrived home on Thursday, on a visit to his family. The Captain has passed through a severe campaign, but we are glad to find him in good health and sprits nevertheless. He and his brave command do honor to Old Berks.
Nathan K. Bieber, residing in Maxatawny township near Kutztown, cut his throat on Monday morning last from the effects of which he died on Wednesday. He was laboring under mental aberration at the time he committed the deed.
On Thursday last a stable on the premises of a Mr. Fegely, on the line of the East Pennsylvania Railroad, between Bowers and Topton was destroyed by fire. The fire is supposed to have originated from sparks of a locomotive.
The regular monthly meeting of the Board of Controllers of the Reading School District was held in the High School Hall on Monday evening last. A new Order of Exercises for the Normal School, prepared by the Teachers of that institution, was submitted by the Principal, Mr. Valentine, and accepted by the Board.
The Committee on Primary Schools, J.S. Richards, Chairman, presented the following nominations of teachers:
Miss Sophia Burt to take charge of the new Primary School, in Green Street School House, with the rank of Principal.
Miss Mary Zellers to be Assistant with Mrs. Wentzel.
Miss Susan Leedom to take the place of Miss Burt as Assistant of No. 1 Primary, Poplar alley.
On motion the nominations and transfers were confirmed by the Board.
Mr. Stout, Chairman of the Committee of Finance reported the following bills, approved by the Committee on Supplies, and the Committee on Buildings and Repairs, viz:
| Samuel Frees, Coal, per contract | $716.76 |
| Samuel Hechler, Pens, Pencils and Ink | 40.28 |
| J. Knabb, Printing Reports, Tables &c. | 60.50 |
| John Foust, Corn-cobs | 4.00 |
| George W. Hain, Wood | 4.00 |
| George Christman, Wood | 1.00 |
| Samuel F. Ruppert, Suppies | 5.16 |
| J.L. Stichter, Bell | .31 |
| City of Reading, Paving and Curbing | 81.12 |
| Garst & Mast, Carpenter work and material | 80.69 |
On motion, the foregoing bills were ordered to be paid.
On motion of Mr. Peacock, John W. Auchenbach was appointed Collector of School Tax for Second Ward in place of John B. Grissinger, who declines the appointment.
Letter from the 93rd Regiment,
Camp near Clear Spring, MD
October 13th, 1862
Dear Journal: We have often thought how conspicuous a part circumstances bear in the formation of a man's character. And, as impulses, emotions and desires mould that character, may we not claim for them a corresponding degree of subjection to such present influences. In the army we realize the truth of this theory more sensibly than ever before, and, consequently, what would have been pleasure at home, here becomes a sad and painful reality. We allude to the approach of autumn. In the family circle us coming is hailed as the harbinger of social endearments and the warm glow of the fireside never fails to disarm the wintry chill of its bitter sting; but to the soldier without any weapon to meet its rude assault, it comes like a conqueror. It waves its sceptre over us and the bravest cower before its dread approach it haunts our sleep--breathes its icy breath upon our trembling limbs, and fear usurps the sway of refreshing slumber; its fell blast sweeps past the sentinel's post--touching upon the wind-harps melancholy chords a requiem to departed comfort--and its cadences linger with sorrowful dalliance upon the ears of him who fears, yet reveres, the doleful teaching.
Soon the "melancholy days" will come. Even at this time they seem to be upon us. A heavy mist has spread its folds over hill and dale, and a sprit gloom sits brooding over the coming prospect. The pathway of the Future looks dark and dreary, and, although its uncertain windings are illumined by a glimmer from Hope's bright rays, still the end is lost in uncertainty and doubt; and while we trust, we cannot rely; while we fear, we dare not submit to the conflicting emotions which ever pervade our being. Happiness then, becomes a fugitive bird, and soars far away into unseen realms; yet it sends back, upon the wings of thought, a welcome messenger of love and peace, that tells of a better country, alone congenial to its existence, where sorrow and trouble never come, and adversity does not wage war against the brave and good. To this blest abode, then, the soldier may look for comfort, for, as earth's vanities loom up before him as a passing dream, he feels that there alone is the happy goal we all desire—the delightful story of "our sorrows o'er."
The above train of thought was induced by surrounding influences. A raw air is coursing through our camp, and, bundled together in their little d'Abritents (?), or gathered around the smoky camp-fire, the "boys" seem to dread it as a fearful enemy. Our situation is in close proximity to a little village known as Clear Spring. The inhabitants of this place are loyal, and treated us with much kindness. The march from Drainsville hither was difficult and arduous, on account of the mud; yet by dint of a whole night's trudging, we managed to accomplish it. The rest of the Brigade passed right through to our present encampment, but the "93rd" was filed into the principal street, had their arms stacked, and allowed the privilege of enjoying themselves in any and every way opportunity might offer. In this manner Saturday and part of Sunday were spent, when we were ordered to join the Brigade.
We are now lying near the foot of a large hill, resembling somewhat in appearance the much-loved "Penn's Mount." Our situation does not command a view of a very long range of country, for the prospect is circumscribed by the hilly ranges that wind in zig-zag turning around us—leaving us, in a measure, hemmed in between. It is reported that some twenty-five hundred Rebel Cavalry, with one light battery, have passed up in this direction, and we are no doubt placed here in order to intercept their return.
Capt. Arthur has received his commission as Lieutenant Colonel of the "93rd." This honor could not have fallen upon more worthy shoulders. Of a good judgment, cool and self-possessed while in the field—blessed, alike, with a fine military knowledge—he is just the man for the post, and we feel assured the future, if opportunity should offer, will continue to him the prestige of a name his courage has won on the bloody fields of Williamsburg and Fair Oaks.
For the last fortnight we have had nothing to do but drill, &c. plenty crowned our board, gentle weather lent its blessing, and the record is replete with pleasing incidents. Among others, we were favored with a visit from our mother. Keenly anticipating our wishes, she brought with her a good supply of those home niceties—and your correspondent has, as a consequence, fared well since her arrival. But how sad the hour of parting! And how loth we were to say "good-bye." Yet, as every picture has its dark shades, so is every joy of life more or less tainted with sorrow—and our experience only verifies the universal sentiment of a lifetime—that all is vanity and soon passes away. R.G.R.
At a meeting of the Class of 58 of the Reading High School, the following resolutions were unanimously adopted:
Whereas, We have heard with deep regret of the decease of our esteemed class-mate Pearson H. Norton; therefore, be it
Resolved, That in the death of Pearson H. Norton there has been taken from us a character justly appreciated for goodness and worth. Memory reverts with much pleasure to our association with him when under-graduates at the Reading High School. Modest and unassuming in his deportment, respected by all who knew him, his departure has produced a void which can but imperfectly be filled. We deeply sympathize with his family in their affliction.
Resolved, That we wear the usual badge of mourning for thirty days.
Resolved, That copies of these resolutions be sent to his relatives, and to the press for publication.
William P. Bard, Chairman
Henry M. Keim, Madison Sallade, Henry Spang, Committee on Resolutions
At a meeting of the members of Company H, 88th Reg't. P.V. held at Camp on the battlefield of Antietam, Md., October 11th, 1862, the following resolutions were adopted and ordered to be published in the Reading Times, Journal, Gazette and Adler.
Whereas, Marks Ringler, Frederick Ferner, James Hinnershitz and John H. Britton, of this Company were killed in the late Battles of Bull Run and Antietam, while fighting for the perpetuation of our glorious Union and in defence of its glorious flag. Therefore it is
Resolved, That we have lost in the above stated men, true brave and honest comrades, endeared to us by those ties only one soldier can feel for another, friends in need and deed.
Resolved, That while we bow in submission to the will of God, in removing from among us the men we loved, we cannot help but feel that our loss is great; but His will, not ours, be done.
Resolved, That we sincerely sympathize with the friends of the dead, and hope God will be with them in their affliction, and especially do we sympathize with the widows and orphans who have been bereft of their protectors and supporters.
Resolved, That we who are left will try to emulate the example the dead have set us in the steady, un--- performance of every duty and by the endurance of every privation, so that should we have to lay down our lives on the altar of our country, our friends may say, "he has done his duty," the proudest boast a soldier has.
Corporal J. McCalligan
Corporal Israel K. Groman
Private Johnston Flag
Private Thos. R. Hartman
Private Jefferson Good
Extract from Company Record.
Sergt. Jacob Houder, President.
Corporal James H. Lawrence, Secretary
On Thursday morning, at 10 o'clock, Commissioner Henry S. Kupp, in pursuance of his instructions, entered upon the work of drafting the number of men yet required in the several districts of Berks county, to make up the full quota of each. An invitation had been previously extended by the Commissioner to a number of leading citizens, including the representatives of the press, of all parties to be present to witness the proceedings and at the proper time the Commissioner's Rooms, on the second floor of the old Bell property in Penn above Fifth street, were filled with a goodly company, including the Sheriff of the county, the Mayor and Aldermen of the city, Judges, Attorneys, Editors and others. The back room was appropriated to the officers to conduct the draft and invited guests, while the front room, connected with the back by a large open doorway, was filled with a promiscuous crowd of eager and interested spectators. Before proceeding to draft, Commissioner Kupp rose and made a few appropriate remarks, and read that portion of the instructions bearing upon the matter in hand. He also stated that he would draw the most distant townships first in order that time might be saved in notifying the parties drafted. Everything being ready, the Commissioner produced the box containing the names of the enrolled citizens of Albany township. The Sheriff, who was placed in charge of the "wheel" broke the seal of the box and deposited the folded ballots in the wheel, and, after mixing them well through each other, a blindfolded lad, sitting at his side, took from the wheel one ballot, handed the same to the Commissioner, who opened it, called out the name, handed it to Maj. Lauman, an assistant, who reiterated the name and handed it to one of the clerks, who strung it on a string with a needle, two clerks recording the name on separate lists. This process was repeated until the required number of names was drawn. The same routine was then observed with the box containing the names of the enrolled citizens of Bethel township. Sixty-seven names were drawn for Albany, and ninety-one for Bethel, as follows, to wit:
After the drafting of each township, the ballots were again placed in the boxes from which they had been previously taken and sealed up in presence of all present. Those boxes are to be placed in charge of Judge Stitzel, subject to my future order for their inspection by the Court on the complaint of any aggrieved party.
Friday, Oct. 17
The Commissioner and assistants met at 10o'clock before proceeding to draft in consequent of idle rumors on the streets to the prejudice of the drafting officers, it was suggested that one of the sealed boxes containing the ballots should be carefully examined by Sheriff Bitting and Judge Stitzel, and the names compared with the enrolling books. The box containing the names of the enrolled citizens of Jefferson township was selected by them for this purpose, and after a careful examination was found to be correct, as will appear by the following Certificate.
We the undersigned, being called upon by the Commissioner, Henry S. Kupp to select any township (or box) and compare the names on the tickets with the book of enrollment, do certify that we selected the Box for Jefferson township, and that we examined and compared said tickets and found them correct.
Geo. D. Stitzel
J.D. Bitting
Reading, October 17, 1862
The drafting was then proceeded with and the persons whose names are subjoined were drafted in the districts following, to wit:
The following notice is ordered to be service upon each man drafted, to wit:
Commissioners' Office, Reading, October --, 1862
Sir: Take notice that you are drafted for nine months service in the United States Army, and you are required to report yourself for duty at my Office on or before the --- day of ---- at 12'o'clock, noon. Henry S. Kupp, Commissioner
The drafted men in Berks county, who are to report at the Commissioner's Office in this city, as above stated will be subsisted by the Commissioner and furnished transportation to Camp Curtin, at Harrisburg, as provided for in the General Orders of the War Department.
Submitted by Nancy.
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