for
dinner at noon. And then practised firing at targets. At two we were
drilled as cavalry in extended order. We galloped to a point, advanced
on foot, were driven back by an imaginary enemy, and remounted. We
galloped as a squadron, and the sight was really remarkable when you
think the men had been together only four days. But the horses had
been doing it for years. All I had to do to mine was to keep on. He
knew what was wanted as well as did the Captain. After that we put on
our packs and paraded at retreat to the band. Then had supper and
listened to a lecture. I ache in every bone, muscle, and joint. But
the riding has not bothered me. It is only hurling the damned rifle at
myself. At nine I am sound asleep. It certainly is a great
experience, and, all the men are helping each other and the spirit is
splendid. The most curious meetings come off and all kinds of men are
at it from college kids to several who are great grand fathers.
Russell Colt turned up and was very funny over his experiences. He
said he saluted everybody and one man he thought was a general and
stood at attention to salute was a Pullman car conductor. The food is
all you want, and very good. I've had nothing to drink, but
sarsaparilla, but with the thirst we get it is the best drink I know.
I have asked to have no letters forwarded and if I don't write I hope
you will understand as during the day there is not a minute you are
your own boss and at night I am too stiff and sleepy to write.

All love to you.

DICK.

DEAREST:

It is now seven-thirty, and I have had twelve busy hours. They made me
pass an examination as though for Sing Sing, then a man gave me a gun
that at first weighed eight pounds and then twenty. He made me do all
sorts of things with it, such as sentries used to do to me. Then I was
given the gun to keep, and packs, beds, blankets, and I made myself at
home in a tent; then I was moved to another tent with five other men.
Then I got a horse and they galloped us up and down a field for two
hours. I lost ten pounds. Then we were marched around to a band. I
had a sergeant on either side of me, so I did not go wrong, OFTEN.
Then, aching in every bone and with my head filled with orders and
commands, I got into the lake and escaped. You can believe I enjoyed
that bath. It certainly is a fine thing, and I am glad I enrolled (for
every one has been as nice as could be), but I miss you and Hope
terrib