CHAPTER X.
Sunday, the 10th, at three o'clock in the morning, we again received orders to march. At eight, A. M., the brigade was moving in the direction of Lancaster. Our company this time were detailed as rear guard, and having to wait until all the teams were under way, did not start until ten, A. M. The day was very warm, but having the advantage, as guard, of stopping often, we made an easy march of it. At two, P. M., we arrived in sight of our camp; the brigade encamping upon a hill, within one-half mile of the village of Lancaster—a situation commanding a view of the country for many miles around.
A source of amusement heretofore denied us, we had the privilege of indulging in here. A small pond in the same enclosure with our camp, abounded in fish, some of which, when full grown, reach the enormous weight of one-fourth of a pound. Hooks and lines were in demand, and piscatorial pursuits were the order of the day.
The Twelfth Regiment in white gloves, through the generosity of our Sutler!—Three cheers for H. S. Patterson!—On the afternoon of May 18th, each man was called in front of his orderly's tent, and received a pair, and at dress parade the Twelfth were encased in white gloves. Some suggested the old saying that "puss in gloves catches no mice." From our improved appearance others prophesied the speedy downfall of the rebellion. Much querying occurred in the regiment, about this time, as to when our term of service would expire. One of our men claiming his time as up, it being nine months since his enlistment, hoping to find out when the regiment were to start for home, went to the colonel and thus accosted him:
"Well, Colonel, I suppose my time is out."
Says the colonel, "What are you going to do about it; are you going home now, or are you going to wait for the rest of the boys?"
Says the fellow, somewhat abashed, "I think I will go home with the rest of the boys."
"Well," says the "old colonel," "I guess you had better; we are all going home pretty soon."
The fellow retired, much chop-fallen at the result of his interview.