Sometimes we have to go on Battalion or Co. drill under Bob, and, I tell you, it is a bone he knows nothing about it, has forgot all he ever
did know and never knew much about drilling, and he and us make all kind of blunders,
sometimes get completely lost and every body laughing at us. I do not like it. Neither
does the boys. They say to let us go out by ourselves and we can do it just right. It
is hard enough to drill under Doane, but far worse under Bob. I and him are fast
friends, and he is a good fellow, does everything the best he knows how. In fact, he
does well only in drilling and he never will learn that. I do not think it is his
intention to resign. He and I have never mentioned it. Often do I wish I had went to
the 111th. Perhaps it is best the way it is. We only have to serve 16 1/2 months yet,
and they have 2 1/2 years. If I live, it will soon roll around. I have a very good
place, no duty to do outside of camp. I think if Lee is going into the army, he
had better come with us. If he goes into a new Reg, he will have 36 months to
serve. Your last letter was a little huffy. You had read my letter to May. I am
glad you got it. It is all right to get mad once in a while. I would be perfectly
willing for you to know everything I said or done. You would hear some pretty
rough expressions. I consider myself just as good a boy as the day I left home and
I know a good deal more virtuous, for I have not a wife to sleep with, and I am
sure I have touched nothing else since I left you. If you are as clear as me, you
can say what I write with a clear conscience, and I know you can.
