It was in view of the spirit developed by this action, more than the action itself, that three of the resident ministers of the city held a council, and after due deliberation published the following card in the city papers:
“A CARD.
“We, the undersigned, resident ministers of this city, believing that the discussion just closed in both branches of the General Assembly, on the office of chaplain, is a virtual repudiation of the claims of Christianity by that body; and that the action had is only a compromise measure, designed to reconcile the hostility of members somewhat to that office; and believing that for us to comply with any request to officiate in that capacity, under existing circumstances, will compromise the dignity of our office and the gospel which we preach; therefore,
“Resolved, That we will not sacrifice our self-respect and ministerial dignity to the enemies of Christianity by officiating in the office of chaplain for either branch of the General Assembly.
(Signed) “W. M. Leftwich,
Pastor M. E. Church, South.
“S. D. Lougheed,
Pastor Presbyterian Church.
“R. H. Weller,
Rector Episcopal Church.