Page:The Story of Aunt Becky's Army-Life .djvu/169

Rh It is an abomination in a civilized family to let children keep lousy; but sometimes the best of people will be obliged to make forays on the sudden attack of the pests, but in the army no Sanitary rules—nothing, in fact—would rid us effectually of them, and we endured them with the heroism of martyrdom.

We endured them, waiting the advent of plenty of soap and water, fine-tooth combs and new clothing, consigning, in fancy, our old garments, the tenant-houses of so many families, to the merciless flames.

In deep seam and hem the creatures bred and grew till they were as large as a kernel of wheat, ripe and full; and any lady can imagine scores of such creatures crawling on her delicate flesh, while the shudder of horror creeps over her; but if lover, or brother, or husband, or son, were in the ranks, she can rest assured that his clothing also was peopled by these army-followers; and if she is in doubt, let her be convinced by his truthful statement.

It was a recreation often indulged in by convalescing patients—turning the garments inside out, and picking these creatures from the seam, to which they cling in desperation. Our tents were invaded; roof, wall, and floor, were astir with them, and they were an enemy invincible to the foe—reinforcing the slaughtered ranks till their number was legion, and they were left victor of the well-fought field.

Think not we sunk down at first into this sudden defeat, or admitted their foraging with impunity; many an onslought from a nervous hand to the shoulder ended the day of scores; many a