Page:Notes of the Mexican war 1846-47-48.djvu/27

Rh so there was another growling. To-night it commenced to snow and was very cold, which made the boys quiet, and they wrapped themselves up snugly in their blankets and straw beds.

Sunday December 20, 1846.—This morning, about 9 o'clock, we were formed into line, and after going through a little drill, Capt. Small stepped to the front and made a few complimentary remarks, hoping that every soldier will behave themselves as soldiers, after which we marched to the Presbyterian Church, which was well filled, no doubt from curiosity, and to have a good look at the soldiers. We were taken up to the front, where seats were provided for us, and seated, and listened to an excellent sermon, suitable for the occasion. Greatest decorum prevailed among the soldiers; in fact, the soldiers I noticed seemed to take a deep interest and listened silently to every word the minister spoke; and I also noticed that the fair and bright eyes of the ladies rested heavy upon most of our men during the ceremony. An orderly sergeant came into the church with a note from the Adjutant of our regiment to Capt. Small, calling him out. Here he received orders from the Adjutant to prepare his company for to leave Pittsburgh in the morning for New Orleans. The church looks like a well built one, and inside has a good imitation of marble blocks. The organ is a splendid piece of workmanship, very fine toned. The singing was exceedingly good; their anthem was "Gird on your Armor," which was sung by the whole choir, as well as by some of our soldiers. After church let out many of the people shook hands with nearly all of the soldiers, wishing us all good health, and God to be with us on our journey. In the afternoon the soldiers mostly took to carousing around the city and bidding good-bye to the citizens, telling them that we will be off for Mexico to-morrow. This evening a good many citizens came to our quarters, talking about Mexico and the many battles that will have to be fought before peace will be made. To-night most every man is busy in packing up and preparing to leave this smoky city for the seat of war. Some I notice are writing letters.