gth outflanked the train, but still failed to extricate ourselves from
the labyrinth. Informed, or rather deluded, by the "lantern dimly
burning," we floundered into ditches and scrambled out of them, we waded
mud-puddles and stumbled over boulders, until finally the ever-present
train disappeared in the darkness, we rushed up a steep hill, heard the
welcome sound as our feet touched a brick walk, and, after turning two or
three corners, found ourselves in the narrow hall of the "principal
hotel." We were tired and disgusted, and no one stood upon the order of
his going, but went at once to sleep upon whatever floor, table, or bed
offered itself.

This morning we are pleased to hear that the General has resolved to go
into camp. Of course the best houses in the place are at our disposal, but
it is wisely thought that our soldier-life will not begin until we are
fairly under canvas.

All day we have had an exhibition of a Missouri crowd. The sidewalk has
been fringed with curious gazers waiting to catch a glimpse of the
General. Foote, the comedian, said, that, until he landed on the quays at
Dublin, he never knew what the London beggars did with their old clothes.
One should go to Missouri to see what the New-York beggars do with their
old clothes. But it is not the dress alone. Such vacant, listless faces,
with laziness written in every line, and ignorance seated upon every
feature! Is it for these that the descendants of New England and the
thrifty Germans are going forth to battle? If Missouri depended upon the
Missourians, there would be little chance for her safety, and, indeed, not
very much to save.

_October 4th._ We have been in camp since Sunday, the 29th of September.
Our tents are pitched upon abroad shelf half-way down a considerable hill.
Behind us the hill rises a hundred feet or more, shutting us in from the
south; in front, to the north, the hill inclines to a ravine which
separates us from other less lofty hills. Our camp is upon open ground,
but there is a fine forest to the east and west.

In a few days we have all become very learned in camp-life. We have found
out what we want and what we do not want. Fortunately, St. Louis is near
at hand, and we send there to provide for our necessities, and also to get
rid of our superfluities. The troops have been gathering all the week.
There are several regiments in front of us, and batteries of artillery
behind us. Go where you will, spread out upon the p