Sunday, August 1, 1847.—This morning after I got off guard-duty and breakfast I took a good nap until 2 o'clock, p.m.
In the evening there was quite a fuss kicked up between the two Pittsburgh companies, Capt. Denny, Co. A., and Capt. Herron, Co. K, both of the First Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers. They kept it up until both parties were put in the guard-house for future good behavior. Of all the black eyes, skinned noses and bruised faces it beat all that I have ever seen. All quiet again.
Monday, August 2, 1847.—This morning the soldiers, who were put in the guard-house last evening for fighting and disorderly conduct, were released with joy to themselves and friends; and some of them looked as if they wouldn't be able to see daylight for sometime. It serves them right, why not behave.
At 10 o'clock we again went to the parade-ground, and had another long drill, for over two hours. I don't know what our officers mean by drilling us so much, for we can shoot and yell, and that is all that is necessary to frighten the Mexicans.
In the evening it commenced raining, and it increased in intensity with heavy strokes of tronantor que reldmpago (thundering and lightning). The sky overhead was a black pall. All quiet, except some are telling stories, singing songs and playing cards. Some would read the newspapers sent from the States, while others were writing letters, and so on until the tap of the drum beats, when all laughter, songs and playing of cards must be* stopped, and all lights must be put out.
Tuesday, August 3, 1847.—This morning we again marched to the field, and had another long drill, preparing for the bloody contest, which (according to rumor) we will soon have to fight.
This afternoon a squadron of dragoons came in from the Castle of Perote. They bring a very large mail with them. I
