Shepp, William William Shepp Diary 1917-1918

[Draft Created by Crowdsourcing]
June 3, 1917
to
Dec. 31, 1917
W.L. SHEPP

Ke[illegible]ser
Jan. 1, 1918 W.VA.
to

[2]
In case of accident please

Ma Nannie Triplett
Key[illegible]er, W.V
Also send her this
book in case of death

[3]
Vol 1.

The
Keystone

Trade{R}Mark

Diary

[4]
1918

1. January
The first day of 1918, A Holiday for everyone except the clerks, We must work just the same as usual I' m glad of it for I always like to make January 1st count with a big day's work, a fine start
2. January
I am getting the company bills in for the old month posting all the items to the ledger and closing up all the company business, and preparing the Collections Sheets for pay-day,

[5]
3. January
It will take me 5 or 6 days to have the books closed and get the the collection sheets ready for payday. But I give the work all the time I possibly can.
4. January
Continued work on books and Collections sheets. Made out Charlie Thacker's Death Certificate. I wonder when someone will make out one for me?

[6]
5. January
The last day of my boyhood. Tomorrow I'll be a man for Uncle Sammie instead of a boy. Gee, how proud I am of the fact. Just think! In the morning! A Man! A Man!
6. January
Sunday. Last night I was a boy. Today I am a man!! I am working on the books and collection sheets for the month of December. Have started my second life with a hard day's work. On Sunday tho.

[7]
7. January

Continued work

8. January

On

[8]
9. January

my

10. January

Collection
Sheets

[9]
11. January
Have at last made ready the collection sheets for payday. Company collections this month will total over $11.00. Last month they were over $8.50. Quite an increase since I began keeping the accounts.
12. January
Now I have begun posting the barber, pool and shines account up to date for January.
Had to stop and make a clothing list up for Lieutenant Schoof. I'll probably get to continue my work Monday.

[10]
Sunday
13. January
Must just have a day off today. Have worked both Sundays previous to this. This morning I went to the post mess hall and heard Chaplain Roberts, this afternoon I went to the Y.M.C.A and heard Mr. Morison give a lecture on "a man's sex life", just great.

14. January
Have finished my posting and am caught up with my work. We were marched to the Post Mess hall to see "The framing of a soldier." Went to visit Sgt. Keller. Hear a story about a man's weakness and my friend A.E. Gee how my opinion of her is changed for the good. Slept badly.

[11]
15. January
Have been working at odd jobs all day. Received letters from Fred A., Harry C. and B.B. All jolly inspiring letters. Payday today. I must handle the Collection sheets for Lieut. Holander. We have taken the collection and it is after 10: P.M.
16. January
Learned to make out a furlough. Or rather helped to do so. Drawed my pay - $13 over after $20 on my Liberty bond is paid and my company bill of $4.35 is paid. Sent $5 home to my sister (tomorrow).

[12]
17. January
Ran on several errands, made out the sick report, posted the company bills and wrote $10,000 of insurance for Pvt. Wyman in the hospital. Made up a list of old bills. Called up A.E. and had a pleasant chat. Looking forward to 7:45 Sat eve.
18. January
Came to the office after getting breakfast at the first table. Did all my posting of accounts early. Worked on several little jobs, then wrote insurance to the amount of about $8,5,000 for the boys. Am hurrying to get it off my hands before the last of the month.

[13]
19. January
Catching up with my little "odds and ends jobs. Wrote about $65,000 Insurance for the soldiers. In evening I went to see A.E. my little Norwegian friend. We went to the Orpheum. Enjoyed the pictures immensely. Tomorrow - 1 to 2 P.M. -
20. January
Came to the office for reveille. Made out the sick report. Only six of our boys in the hospital now. There's goes the church call. What a beautiful call! Worked in the office until noon. In afternoon I went to CE. at Post Mess Hall. Later I dined with A.E. We went to the Bulgin Tabernacle meeting also and then one happy sleep. Recollections and Memories.

[14]
21. January
Came to the office this morning feeling pretty sleepy but fine in other ways. Worked on insurance all morning and on the delinquency list. Worked on small "odds and ends" the rest of the day. Went to the Y.M.C.A. and saw war pictures. Went to bed about 8: P.M. and got a good sleep for once.
22. January
Tuesday
Got up feeling fine. Went to the office early. Worked at the usual routine until evening. Before retiring I wrote $110,000 of Insurance for the boys. Retired 9:30 thinking of A.E. with pleasing remembrances. --?

[15]
23. January
Finished making out the sick report, took the mail to the P.O. posted my accounts, worked awhile on Lieut School's clothing slips. Arranged my Insurance Applications alphabetically. Made Olive & Bryan Alternative beneficiaries on my Insurance Applications.
24. January
Posted my accounts to the ledger, checked my Insurance and Family Allowances in morning and afternoon. Wrote up insurance up to and past $150,000 including that of our boys in hospital. In evening called up A.E. Then wrote allowances until 9:30 P.M. Good adieu, A.E.

[16]
Friday--
25. January
What a beautiful dream I had last night! Pure case of Purity.
Oh if I could tell her! Wouldn't it be great? The Tabernacle sees me again tonight. I haven't seen her for 4 whole days!

26. January
Saturday
Company inspection as usual. Worked on my usual work and in evening went to the Tabernacle to Dr. Bulgin's Great Service.

[17]
Sunday
27. January
Worked at the regular routine until 2:30. Then went to the Bible Class at the Y.M.C.A. Called Miss A at 4. P.M. Went with her thru a terrible snow to Rev Bulgin's Tabernacle Service.
28. January
Went to work on Blue old Monday as usual. Posted my accounts and worked on the clothing sheets the rest of the day. Wrote a letter to my friend and wrote the Company Diary just before retiring.

[18]
29. January
My posting was completed early and I began at once to work out the Clothing Record for Lieut Schoof. He has told me he'd report me to the Captain if I didn't. W[Illegible] I must first get time to do it for him. He is such a good old fellow.
30. January
Preparing the payroll is the Order of the day. At last we have it finished and I have signed it insuring me of my 35 kopecks per month. All the boys have signed it or are doing so.

[19]
Thursday
31. January
Today is muster day. I went upstairs got my gun and cleaned it ready to stand muster. Orders came that we would be mustered in barracks without arms.
Major Krentz our former Company Commander was present. He is such a good officer. I believe every man in the Company would die for him if need be. We haven't forgotten how good he was to Company "A" yet.

[20]
Friday
1. February
Made out sick report this morning. Mumps are getting a lot of our fellows now-a-days. 19 in hospital. We may be quarantined yet. Capt Hodgson gave me a good"scoring" Later I went to Leavenworth bridge in Motorcycle and froze my ears. Fifty five miles an hour 8 degrees below zero.
2. February
Got the usual Saturday holiday - nit - . Worked all day until about 5 o'clock p.m. Went to see "A" friend in Southwestern Leavenworth. Haven't seen her since Sunday night. We went to the Social at Y.M.C.A. and later to the Tabernacle meeting.

[21]
3. February
So here hath been dawning - Another beautiful day. - But I worked until evening when again I went to the Bulgin Tabernacle Service accompanied by my friend. Enjoyed the service very much. Lecture on "Sin. Death. Hell."
4. February
Worked from reveille until late at night. Went on several errands, eat breakfast early and worked the rest of the day on my book and Collection sheets. I have the Rosters, Shoemaker and two or three other accounts up todate. Heard we'll move soon.

[22]
5. February
Have worked hard all day on my Collection sheets. Have things coming my way it seems. Have worried more than worked. Oh that I could have outside drill with the Company again! Have not been outside the building today more than 5 minutes.
6. February
Wednesday.
Continued work on my Collection sheets. Went on several errands. Took a good bath about 10: p.m. and retired for the night. Tired, worn out and sleepy.

[23]
7. February
Worked on my Collection Sheets until about 3 o'clock Have them complete at last. Gee, what a piece of work finished! How happy I am! Went to Mess hall to hear Bulgin at night and later to Tabernacle to hear him lecture on Wine, Women and Gambling. Saw my friend the last time and did not get to talk to her.
8. February
Have been in Uncle Sam's Service 8 months today. Yes, I am a real-to-gracious soldier and cannot realize it. No I do not, and yet I have worked hard as anyone in the Co and longer hours than most others

[24]
Got up with a mumpy jaw. Confined to Ward
9. February
Sat.
#10 Post Hospital. All the fellows are fine and in fine humor. Here's Eanes, a southerner, Somerville one of our wagoners, Klise our bugler, Steffey my immediate companion a low dark haired and complexioned. There is Enoch, Peterson too and Kelly both good fellows. Slept fine
10. February
most of that night but restless toward morning.
There goes the Beautiful Church call. Now the beautiful sunshine comes streaming thru the window. What a dear day for God's day Beautifull Sabbath is ended, and the shades of Night are falling. I have finished reading, "God's Country and The Woman,"

[25]
Once more the shadows are gathering to form Night on
11. February
this side of mother Earth. Have spent the day reading "Tales of a Traveller." 186 pages finished. Now to the dear old Testament as usual. Before I retire I must read several chapters of The Epistle of James - perhaps all. Last night and the night before I read II Thessalonians twice. Each time I read a passage the second time it becomes so much clearer and more real to me.
12. February
Today I have read about a third of the "Tales of a Traveller" It has been pretty dry but I have read it for the sake of reading something I wrote a letter to Anne E and one to Olive. Heard our Volunteer Band playing the "marching" airs for the First Battalion at parade. My face as sore as ever.

[26]
A beautiful day today. Have read nearly all the rest of
13. February
my book. Have written letters to Blanche and Sgt Christine. Had a fine dinner. Have heard the Seventh was to leave tonight. Oh is it so? Will I be left behind? Took a sleep in the afternoon. Wrote my diary as usual. Finished "Tales of a Traveller." Read I Peter before retiring. Could not sleep until about 12 p.m.
14. February
Arose about 7:30 a.m. - just in time to get breakfast. Have been having meals. Read "The Rainbow Trail" three until dusk - 373 pages Tales of a Traveller 530 God's Country 343 Total read in 5 days - 1246 pages Read II Peter before retiring. Hopes are rising that I still may get to go with the Co. to France.

[27]
15. February
In the morning I wrote [strikethrough] two letters to W. VA friends. Did not snooze but all the time. Reading waned for loss of books. Read II and III John and Jude. My testicles got sore. Did not sleep at night. Worst night I've spent in Hospital. Sore all over. Headache.
16. February
Still sore. Spent a horrible morning of pain: Did not remove from bed all during. Pain partly removed by [suppository] but testicles partly swollen to unnatural size. Read Book of I John 2 [Chap 1]. Fever in evening 101.6

[28]
Sunday
17. February
Did not sleep very much but felt pretty good in the morning. I was moved out of the Hospital to a Hospital Barracks near by. First real sunshine I've been in since coming to hospital. Begin to feel worse. In evening my temperature rose to 102.6 Nearly roasted for awhile. In morning I had a messenger from A.E. [illegible].
18. February
Slept about 1/3 of time night before I was given a glass of fine milk. Eat nothing for breakfast but a big dose of salts. Went to another room assisted by one of the nurses. Came near fainting from illness and sickness. Testicles still swollen. Still have headache. Temperature 103.

[29]
19. February
Slept fairly well. Took me nearly all day to write mamma a very short letter Was nearly dead when I got it finished. Fever rose in evening to 103.4. Ice placed on my head at night. Slept fairly well.

Wednesday 20. February
Temperature in morning 101. Felt pretty good nearly all day. My testicles seem to be larger today than ever before. When will the climax come? Wrote a short letter to Anna speaking as cheerful as possible.
I am on special diet and get lots of good things if I'll just eat.

[30]
Thursday
21. February
Woke up as sore as ever Eat part of my breakfast and took salts. So sore can hardly move or talk. In evening bowels moved. Testicles about the same. Headache about gone. Pain with every heartbeat. Temperature in evening
Read the daily to pass by the time. 1018
1732
18
22. February
Slept fine and lost but few moments of repose. Felt fine in morning. Temperature normal Read a little from Motion Picture Magazine. Finished reading I John and started Revelation - 4 chapters.

[31]
23 February
Had a fine rest last night. Today I have eat 3 hearty meals. Read the Book of Revelations. Continued my story, "Over the Top." Have heard the Regiment is to leave in a day or so.
24 February
Have rested and felt fine all day. Was out about 2 hours this afternoon. Gee, how lonesome in this place. Read the daily and several chapters of Hebrews. (9). Regiment to leave tomorrow, I think. Saw Archer in the evening. Ralf McKinores visited me.

[32]
Monday
25 February
Got up in the morning with a full determination to move with the company if possible. Yes the doctor has said I could go at 2 p.m. From 2 p.m. until 5 pm I stood around in a hospital detail and nearly froze. At 5 p.m. I left Fort Leavenworth for our embarkation depot "somewhere in America."
26 February
Took the Burlington route to Chicago arriving there at 2:30 p.m. about 22 hours ride. Feeling fine although have had considerable strain. Did not get to see Anna before leaving. Went thru Valparaiso shortly after leaving Chicago. I think we're on the Grand Trunk Railway but I'm not sure. Miss Anna tonight. Wish I could see her. Am about 10 miles east of Chicago.

[33]
27 February
Went to bed somewhere in Michigan. Woke up north of Lake Erie somewhere in Canada. Took New York Central Lines from Niagara after leaving the Grand Trunk. At Utica we changed lines again taking the New york ontario and Western. Felt fine all day but very much fatigued toward night. Retired about 7:30 p.m.
28 February
the last day of February! A cloudy biting morning. woke up about 5 o'clock nearly suffocated with smoke. About 150 miles north of New York City. Continues on the New York Ontario and Western until we arrived at Camp Merritt, Dumont, New Jersey at 12 o'clock noon having ridden 67 hours. I rode in outer truck to camp where I stood out until 4:20 p.m. before finding my barracks. Supper at 6 p.m. Terribly tired.

[34]
Here I am at Camp Merritt, New Jersey. All January I worked hard in the office. up until February 9, my daily routine went on as usual. Then the unexpected came. I was confined in the hospital for mumps. What a dreary old time I've had! Expecting the regiment to leave every day! I knew I couldn't go. But Sunday I was out of bed for about 2 hours. Then I learned the regiment was to leave on the morrow. I was not really strong enough for the trip but the ward master didn't know it. So I made a big fight to come and here I am! The trip has been hard and I'm

[35]
1. March
Got up feeling fine after being so tired night before. Read II Timothy and a little from Popular Mechanics in the morning. Passed the dreary hours away in the best manner possible. Had bread pudding and oranges for dinner. Also meat. Whiled away the time the best I could wrote Anna and mamma letters. Read I Timothy. Took a bath and shave.
2. March
Saturday. A beautiful day! The sun's shining with its beautiful rays. I've waited all day and the doctor has not showed himself. Won't I ever be turned to duty? Now I am called to supper with the mumpy gang again. Read II Thessalonians and about 150 pages of "The Scarlet Rider." Lights out and I had to go to bed in the dark.

[36]
Sunday,
3 March.
Got up about 7:30 a.m. feeling fine. Another beautiful sunny day. Wanted to attend church but did not get to for I was not turned to duty as I had expected to be. Finished reading "The Scarlet Rider" until 3 p.m. Later read Colossians. Have passed the evening away the best way possible giving up all hopes of being turned to duty today. Retired about 9 o'clock.
4 March
Got up feeling fine but Gosh! how cold it is here sometimes! Was turned to duty this morning and transferred from Headquarters to 4th Platoon. Did no drill work in morning but afternoon I helped Davis on collection sheets. At night I saw Archer and Sanders. Sanders have with second Battalion.

[37]
Tuesday
5. March
Stood Reveille this morning for first time in 2 or 3 months. Had 1/2 hrs calisthenics in the morning followed by a hike of about 4 or 5 miles. Had calisthenics in the afternoon followed by double timing for 15 to 30 minutes. Oh I'm nearly dead! All new to me, nearly, just out from serving a term of 23 days in quarantine and hospital.
6. March
Got up this morning sore altho I took a good bath last night. Mailed a $50 bond also before retiring.
This morning we had about 30 minutes calisthenics and a hike of about 6 to 8 miles to a high point at the top of the Palisades of that Grand old Hudson. Hundreds of feet below lay that beautiful river. Payday in afternoon. Drew about $25 after my insurance was paid. Still sore but not as much. At night I sent 22 dollars to People's Bank for deposit. Went to Y.M.C.A. for christershow. Wrote Anna a letter.

[38]
7. March
Took calisthenics in the morning ending in "leap frog." Sent as orderly for regimental headquarters orderly. Went on errands to telegraph and finance offices. In afternoon went on half a dozen errands to "A." "B." & "C" companies. Also to headquarters detachment and train. Went to Hostens House in evening and to Y.M.C.A. with Beam and Wear. Am sore but am getting better quick. Am eating my food allowance and spending 55 to 50 cents per day for more food rather poor today. Slim as usual.
8. March
Have had a general policing of barracks this morning. Was first put on a detail for fatigue but was relieved. Policed 4 different rooms. Cleaned my rifle for first time in 2 or 3 months. Marked my mess kit, bacon and condiment cans, canteen and cup. Packed barrack bag. Think we'll leave pretty soon. In afternoon I wrote mamma a long letter not having anything to do. In evening I sent a package home and later went to see Earnest Dayton who mamma said was in 313 Infantry. Found him very much disheartened but he was glad I came.

[39]
Saturday.
9. March
Helped police barracks for inspection and stood inspection at 10:00 a.m. My name was taken for having rust on my gun. Had to clean it and report to our sergeant. Afternoon Earnest Dayton came to see me. We run over to Merritt hall where we got a meal and I borrowed "Brandon of the Engineers." Read about 150 pages in evening while the rain poured outside.
Sun. 10. March
Today is a stormy frozen sabbath---the first I have enjoyed in Camp Merritt---probably the last. In the morning I did nothing but read my book. In afternoon I finished it and read Philippians. Put on detail to report to Y.M.C.A. for instructions. Ran on errands hunting soldiers for visitors. The wind blew fiercely with a freezing cold and I nearly froze. Had a table with Leighly instead of writing a letter

[40]
Monday
11. March
Late last night Private Dawson shot himself in the foot while fooling with his rifle.
This morning we had half an hours calisthenics and a 4 mile hike. had infantry drill and manual of arms also. Had dinner an hour late being unable to get meat. infantry drill in afternoon. In evening I went to the Y.M.C.A. and heard Miss Margaret Wilson sing for the soldiers. Such ovations I never heard before. She is a beautiful singer.
12. March
This morning we took calisthenics and a three mile hike to Tenafly. in the afternoon it rained and we did no drill of any kind. Got order to oil our rifles good. Went to canteen and made a few small purchases. think we'll leave in a day or so. We're preparing now.
In evening I did some washing and later the boys in our squad room played "Slap Jacks" Better learn how!

[41]
Wednesday
13. March
Took half an hour's calisthenics and a 7 mile hike in the morning besides venereal inspection. Infantry drill and manual of arms in afternoon. Heard we're to leave tomorrow. Will we? Archer told me. Earnest D. called to see me. Bade him goodbye. Wrote 2 letters and 12 cards answering all my mail. Mailed them. Went to bathroom for a bath but water was too cold, I thot. Cloudy.
14. March
Rained hard in night and is real muddy this morning. We did nothing in the morning except pack barrack bags and take 5 minutes calisthenics in squad room. Stood inspection for transportation. Everybody confined to quarters all day. Slept about an hour in the morning. Damp and rainy about all day. Did no drill work of any kind in the afternoon. Scarlet fever broke out in 1st Platoon and it will not move with us tomorrow. Carried our barrack bags to the motor truck. Detailed to half load them. Oiled my rifle. Read 2 chapters of Ephesians. Took a bath and did washing.

[42]
Friday
15. March
A fine day but chilly. Company arose at 5 a.m. Put up our packs for moving Policed Barracks before leaving. Left at 12:30 noon, marched to railroad "Creskill" go off the train in Jersey City where we got aboard a Hudson river steamer which in about 2 1/2 hours put us on the good ship "Ordina" a Royal Mail Ship under the Union Jack as a third class passenger. Had a fine supper of beans, bread, butter, and bacon. Am awfully tired. Hudson river steamer was the "Newburg." Retired about 9:15.
16. March
Arose about 6:30 feeling fine. Our ship still lay in port but about 10 a.m. we started down the harbor. Several hours later were were in open but very calm sea. We were ordered to our staterooms out of sight and did not reappear until about 11:30 when we were out of sight of enemy suspects. All afternoon we had a fine sea but towards evening several boys began to feel "dizzy." I came too late for dinner but I finished my box of chocolates "from home." Two letters came to my hands just after getting out of sight of the American shore. O.S.N.J. waves large and wind stronger toward night. I am feeling fine. Not dizzy a bit.

[43]
Sunday
17. March
Arose feeling in good health and fine spirits. Policed stateroom and went on deck where we found Chaplain Roberts. Sang some hymns, read, Psalms 23, and all the soldiers united in the Lord's Prayer. After this a few favorite songs were sung. Learned afternoon that our officers were expecting an attack on our (18) boats by sub. I am assigned to life boat 60 for drills and in case of alarm. Stayed in stateroom all afternoon nearly waiting for boat drill call. It did not go. Went on deck after supper with Archer, later to my stateroom (8:45 p.m.) to bed. Am not in the least dizzy. I guess I am not going to get sea sick.
18. March
Waves are higher this morning. White headed clouds are showing themselves everywhere. Wind raising and has changed. Coming from the North this morning. Toward noon and night the clouds looked blacker, the wind go stronger and the waves rougher. The ship tossed about considerably. Stayed on deck with Archer until 8:30 p.m. Set my watch forward as usual about 20 min. Read 2 chapters of Ephesians. Always stay on deck as much as possible. Had calisthenics and boat drill.

[44]
Tuesday.
19. March
Still feeling fine this morning sea still rough. Foggy and rainy in the morning. Staid on deck and nearly froze from 9:00 a.m. to 11 a.m. as usual. Missed calisthenics by mistake. Sea getting lots rougher and ship tossing about considerably. men on all sides "feeding the fishes and "heaving the rail." called to office by Sgt. Pickrel in afternoon. Worked on Disembarkation Lists during the afternoon. Missed my supper but ate some crackers and an orange. Retired feeling fine. Think I'll not get sea sick.
20. March
Ship still tossing this morning but not so much. Worked in the Co. office until 3 p.m. Stood veneral inspection for the first time on board ship. Two more ships to our fleet of 10 that came across together. One of them a battleship. Shaved, talked awhile to the fellows in our stateroom, then went on deck with Sgt. Garner where we staid until about 9:00 p.m. Saw Archer but was not with him any length of time.

[45]
21. March
Slept very poorly last night. Worked in the office nearly all day. have begun to feel dizzy but I don't think it will mean sea sickness to me. I must have a lot of exercise on deck and get out of the office awhile. Have just made a Company Roster. The ship still tosses. The wind still blows. Boat call came unexpectedly about 8:30 p.m. We hurried out in the rain on deck where we stood about 30 min.
22. March
Friday.
A week on the water. Sea has quieted very much and the wind is practically still. It is getting very cloudy in the north. I have a dredful cold. Worked all day (nearly ) in the office and stood boat call at 4 p.m.
Was on deck awhile in the evening with Archer and Cubbs. Went to Chaplain Robert's Bible class at 3:00 p.m. St. Mark 4:45.

[46]
Saturday
23. March
Nothing much to do but make up a roster for headquarters. Worked on it all morning and did the other office work. the finest day we've had at sea since leaving America. Boat call at 9:45 a.m. In afternoon we went to Bible Class held by Rev. Roberts our Chaplain. By a boat call rumor I was up until 12 p.m. Was very tired when I "hit the hay." Watched several boxing contests in p.m.
24. March
A beautiful sight on the sea. A beautiful day too but windy. Staid on deck part of the afternoon. Went to service by chaplain in morning. At 8 p.m., we will be in Sub Zone and must be fully dressed at all times and wear our life belts except when in bed. I do not fear the rest of the voyage. Something tells me everything will be O.K. whether we sink or float.

[47]
Monday.
25 March
Had a good sleep but wore out this morning. All day I have staid in the office. Gee, its close and hot here althro the fan is running. My berth no is 223a. My meal ticket calls for table no 3, at second sitting. Wrote mamma a letter this morning. Did nothing this afternoon. Went to the home Talen Concert in evening which lasted until nearly 10 p.m.
26 March
A beautiful day. The "Ordina" still floats tho we are getting nearer the dangerous part. We have 7 destroyers with us this morning. Sgt. Foeltz of the train died during the night of pneumonia, and was swallowed up by the waves at 4 p.m. getting a sea funeral. Staid on deck about 2 hours in morning but in office the rest of the day tho I found but little to do. Oh if I could see Anna again tonight, How happy we would both be. And then if I knew mamma was not worrying over my safety. Fire drill 9:20 p.m.

[48]
Wednesday.
27 March
Got up about 3:15 a.m. being unable to sleep because of my nose. Went on deck 3:30 and staid until breakfast time. After breakfast I went to the office where Mount and I packed the office paraphernalia until noon. Did nothing in the afternoon except stick in the office. Staid on deck until 6:30 p.m. Drawed rations and made up my pack. Retired after 10 p.m.
28 March
Rose about 4 a.m. went on deck about 5:30 and sighted land to the south and to the north. In morning and until 2 p.m. I staid in the office. We were all on deck after that for we entered St. Mary's Bay and later the River Mersey up to Liverpool. We anchored in the middle of the stream where we staid until morning. Went to the office with Mount where we worked on some paperwork until near 1:30 a.m. Our anxiousness of Subs is over. We were delayed in getting in port because a ship was sunk in the harbor last night.

[49]
Friday. (Good)
29 March
We were towed in early by a tug and put on a train about 7 a.m. We got 3rd class passage--8 ment (a squad) to an apartment and 5 times this many to a car. Went over the London & North Wester Ry. Passed Birmingham at noon. Changed cars at Oxford taking the Great Western to Winchester, arriving there at 4 p.m. Marched a mile or so and came to Camp Morn Hill. Like England fine so far. We have received a fine reception here. I note with regret the absence of able bodied men and the large number of seemingly fast women. Went to Y.M.C.A. in eve.
30 March
Oh the bloody bloomin' weather! A rainy morning. I am tired this morning and a little sore but after such a safe and pleasant journey, thank God, I feel fine. Had a time after returning from an errand to find the Company Office, but at last found it and was soon busy. Worked all day at the cars with breakfast or dinner but about 7 p.m. I eat enough for 2 men I believe. Not much food here but good.

[50]
Easter Sunday.
31 March
Took the morning report to headquarters (Regimental) in the morning, hurriedly shaved and hiked with 50 selected men of the Company to visit the Episcopalian Cathedral in Winchester whose foundation was laid in 1093 A.D. Oh it was great to sit between the majestic walls of this grand monument to Christ and His work. To erect such a structure in our modern day would cost millions of dollars when labor is so high. If these walls could talk what a history they could disclose! What a treat it was for me?
The music was so sweet. Seemed that Christ was so near. The service ended by the orchestra playing our National Anthem and God save the King. I returned to barracks and later went to the Y.M.C.A. where I go about every night.

[51]
Monday
1. April
Went to the office after breakfast as usual and after a trip to headquarters with a furlough and the morning report I worked on the collection sheets finishing them about 7 o'clock p.m. Did some washing in the evening and retired about 9 p.m. We see and hear aeroplanes everywhere for they are "Thick as hops" almost.
2 April
Worked in the office all morning and took a hike with the company in the afternoon to get some exercise and see some old building tho we did not see them. Went to the Y.M.C.A. in evening and borrowed a book-- Milton's Poetical Works. Went back to barracks and read the first book of "Paradise Lost." Oh it is so good-- The Fall of Man is shown so plainly.

[52]
Wednesday
3. April
Marched with the Company to the Old Westminster Abbey and the Old Hall of Winchester. Saw the Old Round Table of King Arthur and part of the old wall of the Castle. The Castle is partly rebuilt. Parliament was held here for a longtime. Saw the King's Ear in the wall. Here Sir Walter Raleigh was sentenced to death for treason. A statue beautiful of Queen Victoria adorns the section near and under the Round Table. Went on a hike (drill) in the afternoon. Resumed reading my poem in evening. Book II.
4. April
Worked at the office until noon and ran on 3 errands to Army Headquarters. In afternoon I helped Mount pack up the office supplies for we received news that we cross the English Channel tomorrow. Returned the book in the afternoon. Ate my supper which consisted of 2 slices of bread with butter thereon and preserves. A small piece of cheese with this is about our usual amount of food. Went to the canteen and got an additional supper and proceeded to barracks where I made up my pack and retired.

[53]
Friday
5 April
Arose with Company about 4:45 a.m. Packed up my bedding eat breakfast and prepared to leave. Company left Winchester about 8:30 a.m. on the London & South Western Railway for South Hampton for our boat across the English Channel. We arrived on the wharfs in about 3/4 hour and staid there until almost 4:30 p.m. Our boat was an old horse boat tho about as large as the Orduna, I believe. Ardumedeas is our boat's name. Staid out on deck until 8:30 and turned in on the deck with the horses and mules.
6 April
A poor night's sleep on the floor of our cattle ship finds us in the harbor at Havre, France. Yesterday at 6:00 we left South Hampton. Today at 8:30 a.m. we left the Havre Dock and marched about an hour to the top of a hill where our tents were located. After being situated Peterson, E.W. and I found the Y.M.C.A. and the canteen. War has been declared a year today and we land in France to celebrate the even. After supper the rain poured and the ten leaked. Haven't a cent. Gave some children my last penny. We were greeted in Havre on the waving of Old Glory from windows, lulls, etc.

[54]
Sunday
7. April
After a rainy night's sleep in my overcoat with my clothing on and my raincoat over me I feel pretty good except for a bad cold. I am laying in the grass in the sunshine by a cemetery on a hill overlooking the sea. Ships are laying in the harbor and frequently a dirigible or an observation balloon appears. Didn't get to go to a Service this morning. We left Havre about 6:00 pm on a government troop train headed South East. Thirty-one in our car and we had to sleep in a sitting position.
8 April
Ten months in the Army today. Am still on the troop train. We passed within 8 miles of Paris. Met about a dozen artillery trains bound for the front. Saw balloons and different other aircraft along the way. Like the country fine. It has England beat a mile. Fine old historic buildings and walls! The highest state of cultivation I have ever seen. We received a sincere welcome wherever we see people. Went to bed at dark or about 8 p.m. after receiving a good warm cup of coffee.

[55]
Tuesday.
9. April
Awoke after a pretty good night's rest. Eat a hasty meal, put up our packs and found out we had stopt at Meuse. Marched from the train about 8:30 to Mortigny about a mile and a half away. About noon I was put in a barn loft for my future home. Like it fine. We are in the heart of Mortigny, have good food and no money. no Protestant Church here but a Y.M.C.A. to go to. French people seem to like us very much. I see a fine time ahead for us if we stay here.
10 April
Arose early and stood Reveille for the first time in France. Worked all day with Mount getting the office fixtures in shape for permanent work. Took my first bath also in France this afternoon. Mount and I are nearly caught up with our work. Went to the Y.M.C.A. and borrowed a book just before dark. It is cloudy this evening and may rain. Changed billets with a fellow and am now near the office. Must try and learn some French.

[56]
Thursday.
11. April.
Went to the office soon after breakfast and a pretty good sleep. Worked about all day on the files. A court martial, unpacking a box of office supplies, packing the field desk, making a roster and on different other little pieces of work. Mailed mamma and Anna a letter each, Am awfully hungry. I'll be glad when the Company rations come which will probably be in a few days. We are first getting the office in good shape now. The officers say we are about 35 miles from the front. Guess we'll be here for some time building hospitals, training camps, etc. Montigny Le Roi is a dull place that I suppose will liven up when the boys get paid.
12. April
Friday has again come and we are busily engaged in construction works on hospitals and cantonment buildings. Today is the finest weather I've seen for a large number of days. Staid outside part of the day and took a walk in the evening with Christopher. Before, in the afternoon, went to a hill east of Montigny Le Roi and listened to the distant rumbling of the big guns about 35 miles away. Oh it was great to be there and listen. Read 2 or 3 chapters of St. Luke while I lay in the sunshine on the grass. Talked a while with Chasteen. Heard I will go exploring Sunday with the glasses and see the surrounding country, 10 or 20 cities can be seen around the level country from my Lookout Hill.

[57]
Saturday
13. April
Worked in the office with Mount until about 3:00 p.m. tho nothing much to do. Went for a walk with Christopher to my "Silence" Hill. We lay in the sunny weather chatting away until supper. He told me about his home, showed me his Norwegen mother's picture and told me of the sister he saw in Winchester, England before leaving. How I thot of my own home.
14. April
Stood company inspection at 10:00 a.m. and checked off the men as they stood physical inspection just before noon. Staid in office until 3 p.m. and wrote a letter to mamma and one to Anna. Went for a walk with Christopher about 3 p.m. After supper I went to the office and later to the Y.M.C.A. where I just missed services. Went for walk with Moose exploring the town. Retired very tired about 8:30 p.m.

[58]
Monday.
15. April
A rainy morning and damp. Worked as usual with Mount. Wrote several official letters and learned to make a voluntary allotment. Nearly frozen all day for it was rainy and damp all day and night. Staid in the office until late using the candle as our only means of light. We are getting better food now. Our rations came today--one or two carloads. Did not go to the Y.M.C.A. as usual. Stood physical inspection in morning.
16. April
Did not stand Reveille as usual but went to office and made up the sick report instead. Worked with Mount as usual. Another morning of rain and dampness but altho the dampness continued in the afternoon and evening the morrow promises to dry up the mud. Wrote 5 allotments for the boys this evening amounting to several hundred dollars which will not be spent for "booze."

[59]
Wednesday
17. April
Another day toward summer with all its fruits, flowers, birds, bees, warmth and the many blessing that come with it. Even tho it is another damp, cloudy day in France I enjoy the waiting. our breakfast was poor but we had a fine supper and dinner. Went to the Y.M.C.A. in evening but soon returned and retired just at 9:00 o'clock--my regular hour for turning in.
18. April
Am laying in the warm sunshine of the grass east of Montigny le Roi (the King) on a hillside. Oh how the boys think of the warm firesides over the sea, thousands of miles. Waited for there by their loved ones. Oh if I could see Blanche now and talk with her! France is not as bad as I thot but give us all again "Home Sweet Home," yes and my country first, last, and forever. Regret is wrong, my country!

[60]
Friday
19. April
Went to office as usual and made up sick report before breakfast. Worked with Mount on our Data cards all day. Stood by fire for about an hour. The snow was flying this morning and it is very little warmer now. Chaplain Roberts visited us at noon and I showed him to our Y.M.C.A. He is going to come around quite often I believe. Everybody glad to see him! We lose Lieut. Mercer and Sergeant Moore soon. Gee I'm sorry for I like them both so much. Lieutenant is so good and all the men like him so well.
20. April
The weather does not affect the day and its joy but little. At noon we received our first mail here. In the evening about 5 p.m. we were paid-- I drawing 184 francs and receiving 8 letters and a postcard. Went to a store and paid a franc for English walnuts after 8 p.m. when I stopt work.

[61]
Sunday.
21. April
Went to the office as usual for the office force never have holidays. Staid there nearly all day tho there was little to do. My best friend, Christopher was dead drunk. God pity him. What a sight. I must do something for him. Oh if I could have company and not so lonely for comradeship.
22. April
Blue Monday and still rainy. Today has been my busiest day since leaving Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Have been sick since eating those blamed English walnuts but I can't be really a hog so won't try so hard any more to be. Took a long hike in evening with Leighly.

[62]
Tuesday,
23. April
Worked in the office all day. A beautiful sunny day tho a little chilly. Sent a telegram for Colonel Adams. Changed office furniture in afternoon besides my other work. Staid in the office until 9:15 p.m. finishing 5 courts martial and starting to write a letter to Anna after receiving hers.
24. April
Went to the office and worked at small jobs about all day. Am encouraging the boys to make allotments and deposits as much as possible. Have made out 23 allotments since coming here-- April 9, 1918. Staid in company none after supper but went in after 8:00 p.m. but no more work to do. Purchased some chocolates as usual. We crave for something sweet.

[63]
Thursday.
25. April

Went to the office as usual and began work on straightening up the totals of the March collection sheets after the morning mail was taken to the Signal Corps Battalion headquarters. Another mail came bringing me two letters from home and a card from Scott Folk. Made a $23.00 deposit with the quartermaster--Henry Loy at Lengres, France. Wrote letter in evening to Anna.
26. April
In morning put charges of losses of Quartermaster and Ordnance property on data cards. Made up a list of details for a few days in advance. Paid 2 francs on postage for package of Arthur J. Courtney. Very little done in afternoon for Mount wrote a letter and I could not do the work alone. We have begun having fine weather. How long will it continue? Went to bed after my work was done--- before 9:00 p.m.

[64]
Saturday.
27. April
Usual routine in morning. Another day with warm fine weather. Mud drying fast. Helped Mount make copies of our semimonthly report which took until noon. He and I worked on our data cards all afternoon checking them up with the March payroll. Wrote Scott D. Folk a letter which took until 9:10 p.m. when I went to my billet and retired. Reflections of home and friends with perhaps sad and happy dreams.
28. April
Lay in bed until about 7:00 a.m. After breakfast I went to the office checked and made corrections on data cards, heard a trial, made some more blank forms for passes and started writing a letter to Miss Lillian W. but stopped and begin office work. Worked all afternoon with Lieut. Purcell and Pvt. Mount preparing the Co. Payroll. Went to Services at Y.M.C.A. at night and heard a fine talk. The lame man at the Troubling of the Waters.

[65]
Monday
29. April
Worked in morning helping finish the payroll and taking care of the correspondence. Also making the courts martial records into alphabetic order. Filed the letters, prepared charges against Malin for offering government property for sale shaved after supper and went for a walk. Sitting or lying in the grass east of Montigny le Roi, I read a chapter: 3d of St. John and 2 from St. Mark.
30. April
Last day of rainy old April. Worked the duty roster up to date, disposed of the mail and worked on the collection sheet for awhile. Later I consolidated the barber accounts for April. was practically idle the rest of the afternoon for I had but little to do. Wrote Miss Lillian a letter in the evening which took until "taps" (9p.m.) after which I retired feeling fine.

[66]
Wednesday.
1. May
Worked on the duty roster all morning and in the afternoon made an overhauling of the files and office furniture. Learned that payday was Monday. Oh the day is beautiful! The warm sunshine makes me lazy. A fine beginning for May! How we have been blessed for 5 or 6 days. Must do some extra work this evening.
2. May
Worked nearly all day on a small form with Lieut. Percell and Pvt. Mount. Information sheets and they had to be filled out-- one with a carbon to each man in the company. With Rice I went to the Y.M.C.A. movies and saw a 6 reel feature. "Hands Up," a picture of Western United States robbery mixed up in a beautiful love story.

[67]
Friday.
3. May
Worked on the correspondence, a court martial and another or two small jobs in morning. In the afternoon I checked up promotions and reductions on the Service Records. At night I went with Rice and Mount to the Y.M.C.A. where we were entertained by a French Musical troupe. The music was excellent but we enjoyed the American songs by Madame most of all.
4. May
After the mail was disposed of I worked the rest of the morning on my collection sheets. Have them practically ready for payday which they say will be Monday. Oh this is beautiful weather. Sunny France is indeed not a myth, at the present time. 3d Liberty Loan was a great success. I'm glad it was.

[68]
Tuesday.
5 May
Regular office routine. I wish I could be relieved from the office and turned to regular duty. eands and Mount can do the work and I need some honest wholesome exercise. This rainy weather too makes us all blue. The mail again-- but nothing for me. Wish I could see Anna. It's been so long since I saw her.
Sunday. 6 May
A beautiful morning. Got a pass for Enoch Peterson and myself. My first pass since I've been in the Army. We went to Poinson or nearly so-- west of Montigny for a hike about 5 miles out. Oh the beautiful flowers and the mistletoe! How beautiful! Came back about 4:30 p.m. a little wet for it rained all the way back.

[69]
Monday Payday
7. May
Again I am doing the same old office work. Am also taking soldiers deposits. I'll have to sleep tonight with about 1600 francs on my person. Helped Lieut. Purcell take the company collections which amounted to about $50. Went to bed about 8:30. Was wakened up all times in the night by drunken fellows coming in.
Wednesday 8. May
Regular office routine. Made a report of General orders, Memoranda and bulletins needed to complete our files. Turned over to Lieutenant Purcell $424. for soldier's deposits. Made up a report and sent it to Quartermaster General. Wrote another allotment-- This time for Elijah B. Dixon. This makes 27 I've written to start this month since coming to Montignes.

[70]
Thursday
9. May
Deposited $25 with the Quartermaster making a total of $48. Filed all my papers this morning. Did nothing much the rest of the day. Enrolled in Pvt. Barron's French class but did not get to attend this evening. Tuition is 5 francs and books 1 franc & 50 centimes. He is a good teacher and we'll learn fast I think.
10. May
Did the usual office work. In evening I went to French class held in Mess Hall by Pvt. Willie F. Barron. Learning to speak French fast. After class I went for a walk with Leighly to see Miss Silvestre. Came in late and was caught by the guard. Said he'd turn me in in the morning.

[71]
Saturday
11. May
Did my usual office chores in the morning & helped Mount make a new company roster. Read some from the Golden Treasury. Went out for a walk in the afternoon and while gone wrote a letter to Harry Antel. Rain approaching drove me in. Took the same walk later in the evening and studied French.
12. May
In the morning I wrote Blanch B. and Robert S. each a letter. Shaved and went to dinner. Afterwards I went on a "wild goose chase after a German escaped prisoner. All in vain for we did not get him. In evening I went over to Mme. Flannuisem residence where she and mademoiselle taught me some French.

[72]
Monday.
13. May
Went as usual to my office work. Afternoon I went for a pleasant trip to the bath house. After I returned I go busy on the small information papers that must be filled out for each enlisted man. What a job! Went as usual to my French class and later to visit my friends, Madame and Mademoiselle Flammaison
14. May
Continued work on the information cards all day. Mount and I finished our job late in evening. The headquarters platoon arrived in morning about 10 a.m. I sold some tobacco for the Capt. and only went to French class about 20 minutes. Later visited my friends.

[73]
Wednesday
15. May
Turned over the tobacco fund $14.38 to Captain Morton. Usual office routine and a bath. Took Bugler Wear with me to see Mademoiselle Marmmarion. Enjoyed ourselves very much. Did not get to attend Barron's class.
16. May
Usual work in the company office. Very little to do. Did not get to attend the French class in the evening because of office which is mostly of mornings & evenings. Went to see mme. and Mademoiselle and enjoyed another French class. next day I copied all my notes and new words & translated.

[74]
Friday
17. May
Worked until noon on small jobs. In afternoon I took a bath. Oh it is fine to feel clean again. Went to Barron's French class in the mess hall and later to see Madame and learn some more real French. Distributed the field postal cards to the boys at supper.
18. May
Distributed the blue envelopes at breakfast. My teeth are once more getting white because of steady frequent cleaning. Office routine until noon. Drilled an hour with the company in the afternoon and at night visited Mme Flamarion for my usual French class which I enjoyed trebeanconp.

[75]
Sunday
19. May
Wrote a letter or two and stayed at the company office until about 4 p.m. Everybody at baseball game ce soir. In evening I took my hymn book to my solitary ravine and had a song service all by myself. A French lady at last interrupted me with her two children and I was driven in by a rain.
20. May
Worked on paper work until I got it all up to date when I began cleaning up the office. Oh what a job I have before me! Mount is scared out and I have it all by myself. Went to Barron's French class in evening and later to my other class.

[76]
Tuesday
21. May
Continued cleaning up in the "Western" section of the office. Have started a regular revolution. The furniture is being changed around to better advantage and a new typewriter desk has been ordered built. didn't have time to take a bath-- was so busy.
22. May
Clean up day continued. Glasswork all clean and East side washed. No class at Mme and did not get to go to Barron's class. Turned a set of shelves around and emptied a box of office supplies that first came in. Went to movies at Y.M.C.A. at night.

[77]
Thursday
23. May
Began work on a Company account book. Worked nearly all day on it or until in the evening when a lot of tobacco came in. I began letting the boys have it on credit and it went very fast. Later I visited M. Flamarion and Mme. for my usual class.
24. May
Wrote up my diary for the last five days. Continued work on my company account book. In evening I again went and had a valuable French lesson under Barron and the usual recitation with mademoiselle Marguerite Flamarion. Came in, took the rocks and sticks out of my bed and retired.

[78]
Saturday
25. May
All day in the office again tho the company has half a day off. My work was thru at 5:30 p.m. and at 6:00 pm I went to see mademoiselle to recu mon lecon as usual. Afterwards I took a walk and still later I wrote Anna a long letter which took until 11 p.m. I then went to my billet removed rocks and sticks and slept.
26. May
A lot of the boys gone to the ball game this morning at Bourmont in the motor truck but I am at the "compagnie bureau." All day at the office or until about 4:00 p.m. when I went for a short walk. Went to the Y.M.C.A. and heard a fine talk by a visiting Y.M.C.A. secretary. Also sang two or three favorite hymns.

[79]
Monday
27. May
Swept office in morning before reveille as usual. Worked at small pieces of work about all day. In evening we got some more tobacco which I shall have to be responsible for. have three lots on my hands to dispose of to the boys and settle for.
28. May
Office routine as usual. Very little to do sometimes and today is a slack day. Went to French class in mess hall but no class. Went later to Mlle. Flamarion's to teach and learn French and English.

[80]
Wednesday
29. May
My work about the same as yesterday. A very slack day. Tomorrow is a holiday tho it will mean very little to me for my work will probably go on the same as any other day.
30. May
Holiday today. Decoration day in America. We get a holiday too-- all but me. The fellows all went to the ball game in the afternoon but I sayed in the office. Mlle. Flamarion hit with baseball. Got some armica (tincture of) to bathe her head. French class at her home in evening.

[81]
Friday.
31. May
The last day of May. Summer approaching rapidly. what fine weather and what a pretty country. The abundance of beauty in France in the springtime. How I like France!
A year ago today I was a school boy taking or ready to take the examinations at commencement. Today I am a soldier, in France almost three months, and ready to go to the front when the call cames. What a Change!
Got the duty roster up to day. Talked to a Frenchman who has been in the war 3 yrs and who lived in our country seven years.

[82]
Saturday. 1918
1. June
Worked on my books, company collection sheets, data cards and Service Records in the morning. In afternoon I took a bath, stood physical inspection at 2 p.m. About 7:30 p.m. I visited Mme. Flamarion's and later helped to build an altar for the morrow-- it being Procession day in the Catholic Churches in France.
2. June
Another beautiful Sabbath in France. All thru Mai mous avoines le belle jours. Did not work in the office today. Took a holiday. Wol. Am now sitting in the hot sun on one of my blankits spread out on the grass. In another diary will be found my adventures for the 2nd year in the army.

[83]
1917
Sunday. 3. June
Was at home by noon. Stayed until about five P.M. Went back to school. Missed Sunday School.

4. June
Took final examination to the Preparation School at Keyser, West Virginia. Monday night I went to the society contest between Dais & Reynolds. Debated the question on Gov. ownership of railroads. Lost. Went to 1st street. 12 P.M.

[84]
5. June
Was at school in morning J.W.A. Brown didn't appear, (Science Instructor) Went to Cumberland Md. and joined army. To leave Friday morning. Returned to Kyser and phones momma late at night. Retired 10:30.
6. June
Packed trunk, took a horseback ride to Mr. Geo. Tasker's. Geo. Kemp's and Wm. Greens. Stayed overnight at Mr. Tasker's. Five time experienced.

[85]
7. June
Returned from ride of 20 miles on horseback. Finished packing, said goodby to Mamma and to friends and went to town. Visited teacher's examination and Miss B.B. on First Street. Retired 12:15 A.M.
8. June
Went to Cumberland, then to Baltimore when I took final examination. Viewed Washington Monument and other large buildings when going thru Washington. Left Baltimore 10:00 P.M. for Columbus, Ohio.

[86]
9. June
Arrived in Harrisburg 3:20 A.M. waited until 3:45 Arrive in Pittsburg 10:30 A.M. Waited on next train until 1:30 P.M. and arrived in Columbus at 7:15 P.M. Went to the barracks, took shower bath and retired about 11:30 P.M.
10. June
At the sound of the bugle we jumped out, dressed hastily and took breakfast. Rest of the evening we were examined. In the evening we received our uniforms and dressed in them. We received orders to not [illegible] our [illegible] take rest of the evening. Took oath.

[87]
11. June
Accidentally missed my squad and received a good calling down. Marked my clothing in the evening and we received our instructions we hear that we are to be moved soon and have orders to stay at quarters.
12. June
Yes we are to move today to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. An officer told us so. here we go marching to the train. Now we are nearing Chicago. It is about 1 A.M.

[88]
13. June
We have been riding all day. We began our ride yesterday at 1 o'clock P.M. We are now at the station and it is 9:30 P.M. We have been on the road for 32 hours and have ridden _____ miles.
14. June
We woke this morning after sleeping on a bed without a tick feeling very cool. Drilled until 3 o'clock P.M. Took a good bath, eat supper and went down town. Came back tired and worn out.

[89]
Friday
15. June
Gee, I nearly froze last night. Only one blanket and no tick on a them, canvas bed. Drilled all day until 4:30 hard. Am awfully tired. Have secured another blanket consigned to company "A" 7th Reg. Engrs. Excellent except bu tiresome. Missed retreat by mistake.
16. June
Drilled all morning hard. Took a good bath and began reading, "The Talisman" by Scott.

[90]
Sunday
17. June
Answered revillee. Continued reading my book all day alternately with sleeping. No church near yet discovered. Like my work fine.

18. June
Drilled until 9:00 a.m. Was vaccinated received another shot-in-the-arm and a good physic. Sick in afternoon. Missed a little drill. Arm getting sore.

[91]
19. June
Drilled until noon. Passed physical examination and drilled in the evening until 4:00 p.m. Finished reading the book "The Talisman." Started reading "The Spoilers, wrote sketch of first book.
20. June
Today is my dear old states' birthday. I haven't forgotten her yet. Drilled hard part of the morning, took calisthenics and in the evening practiced knots and lashes. Continued my book. We are being hurried with our drills. I wonder why?

[92]
21. June
Worked my seven or eight hours as usual except--- we were off most of the morning for getting clothing. Finished my book, took a bad cold. How
22. June
Drilled hard as usual. Sun shined fiercely. Practiced knots and lashes in the afternoon. Calisthenics also in the morning. Man fainted at his work. Took a bath to cool off. Gee, but its hot! Went to Y.M.C.A. and wrote several letters to M. and Miss B.

[93]
23. June
Drilled and practiced calisthenics until noon. Nothing to do but write in the evening. Started reading Darwin's "Origin of the Species." Took a shower bath. Oh, won't I ever gain strength? ** 1 even.
Sun. 24. June
Finished writing several letters. Read two books: "Tricker Dan," and "Excuse Me" wanted to go toward the trenches for a walk but could get none of the boys to go along. Tired.

[94]
25. June
Received our arms and drilled on manual of arms. Took calisthenics as usual. Ropes and lashes discontinued. Am happy and contented more so than in civilian life.
Tues. 26. June
Continued drill on manual of arms and calisthenics. Learned my general orders and practiced guard duty. Received my third shot in the arm. Was acting corporal in drills.

[95]
27. June
Continued calisthenics manual of arms and drilling. Tried on guard duty. Decided to take a shave and bath three time each week. Examined for general duties.
28. June
Acting corporal again in ranks the same old drill again. Articles of War read by Capt. Kuents. Took a physical test Received our mosquito net and soldier supplies. Heard that we were to go to France in three weeks. Happy News. Bad dreams.

[96]
29. June
Calisthenics and drill in the morning. Drilled part of the afternoon and then cleaned our guns for inspection and muster tomorrow.

30. June
Had muster at 8:00 a.m. Cleaned out barracks and marched for two hours, went to Leavenworth in the afternoon and had some pictures taken. Reported at orderly's room for occupation, started to learn to swim in swimming pool.

[97]
1. July
Read some in the forenoon and some in the afternoon. Went to church in the evening and heard the sermon, "Saving the Waste" preached, which ended by 3 churches petitioning the President to have no more grain made into liquors.
2. July
Calisthenics 1 hour drill and manual of arms practiced until noon. "In Old Virginia," continued. Heard of death of Sheriff Donald P. Davis of Mineral County, W. Va.

[98]
3. July
Drilled and took calisthenics as usual. Took 2nd trial swim in the afternoon. Dismissed at 3 p.m. to prepare for tomorrow. Wrote several letters. Went to bed after hearing music on mandolin and guitar.
4. July
Assembled with my company and marched to the lawn where waves Old Glory. Heard Declaration of Independence read then dismissed for the field meet. Our team lost. had a fine dinner. Took a 3d trial swim in the afternoon. Finished reading "In Old Virginia." Wrote several letters.

[99]
5. July
Calisthenics as usual. Drilled and had manual of arms. Practiced putting up shelter halves and preparing for camping out. My partner in the third trial came out first in six minutes.
6. July
Took Calisthenics in the morning. Awfully hot. Dismissed about 10:00 o'clock until noon. In the afternoon we were placed on "toy guard" duty. next we cleaned our barracks. Continued my book and practiced swimming.

[100]
Saturday.
7. July
Inspection of ranks and barracks. Had picture of Co. A taken. no drill Saturday. continued reading "In Ole Virginia." Wrote a few letters. Terribly hot.
8. July
Answered reville. Went to church at Congregational Church. Missed my dinner. Finished "In Old Virginia" Started, "A West Point Cadet." Went to Y.M.C.A. in the evening.

[101]
Monday.
9 July
Calisthenics, drill and manual of arms in the morning. Knots and lashes and the alphabet of the Corps of Signalment. Finished reading, "A West Point Cadet."
10. July
Calisthenics, manual of arms, knots and lashes, drill (extended and close), and signal alphabet. Went to Y.M.C.A. with friend. Borrowed algebra. Thinking of ?

[102]
11. July
Calisthenics, extended and close order drill, knots and lashed, bayonet exercises, manual of arms and signal alphabet order of the day. About tired enough to fall. Studying algebra. Reviewing for a reason. What?
12. July
Drilled, practiced calisthenics and took extended and close drill. Learned Signal Corps alphabet and practiced knots and lashes.

[103]
Friday
13. July
Took an 8 or ten mile march in the forenoon on the government reservation past the two prisons-- military and federal and firing range. Payday in the afternoon. $21.83
14. July
Cleaned barracks and stood inspection of arms and quarters. Slept in the afternoon. Received a little package and letter from B.B. Answered them. Purchased French book.
***

[104]
Sunday 15. July
Went to Sunday school at the Methodist Church and at church at the Presbyterian Church. Answered H.B. letter in the afternoon.

16. July
Went detailed to the river thicket to cut sticks. Fout mosquitoes most of the time. Dug trenches by relief in afternoon. Eyes getting bad.

[105]
Tuesday
17. July
Detailed to dig trenches in the forenoon. worked pretty hard. Drilled in afternoon. Worked nearly to death. Eyes feel heavy and almost blind.
18. July
Dug trenches again. Worked awfully hard. Drilled as usual. Practicing aiming I was first on the paper at which I sighted.

[106]
19. July
Reported to the hospital then at the barracks until noon. Bad cold and pink eye. Drilled until after 3 p.m. and passed physical examination.
20. July
Marched out into the country about 12 miles. Stopt at a well and got some excellent water to drink. Almost had to "say it." Cleaned barracks in afternoon.

[107]
21. July
Stood inspection and drilled in forenoon. Afternoon clear. Slept. Did my washing.

22. July
Sunday
Went to Sunday School at Methodist Church and Church at Presbyterian. Heard Mr. Cartwright of the Great Western Stove Company at Y.M.C.A. in evening. Contemplated a Bible class.

[108]
23. July
Calisthenics and trench digging in the morning. Sighting and firing drill in afternoon. Detailed for Detached Guard. Post #2 in Drydale, Mo. Hours.
24. July
From 10 to 12 p.m., 4 to 6 a.m., 10-12 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. Tues. Took an officer's name and reported. Relieved at 6 p.m. and went to camp to set down to watermelon. Tired.

[109]
25. July
Calisthenic and trench digging, manual of arms, and infantry drill in afternoon. Also tent pitching.

26. July
Calisthenics and trench digging in morning. Sighting and firing drill and drill in close and extended order. Off at 3:15 from work.

[110]
27. July
Took a march about 5 miles long. Went to the woods but I stayed with the main party. Cleaned barracks in afternoon. Exercised at Y.M.C.A. in evening.
28. July
Stood inspection in the morning and drilled infantry drill and manual of arms. [Went to Leavenworth and got pictures] went to the Y.M.C.A and sent six letters in evening. Afternoon clear.

[111]
Sunday 29. July
Went to church Sun--at Presbyterian and to Sunday School at the Methodist Church. Slept some in afternoon and went to Y.M.C.A. at night.

30. July
Calisthenics and trench digging as usual in morning. Bayonet drill, semaphore and infantry drill in afternoon signed payroll in evening. Cleaned barracks.

[112]
31. July
I cleaned barracks and stood muster at 9:00 o'clock. Had semaphore signaling, and physical inspection at 1:30 p.m.
Paraded for the first time.
Went to the Y.M.C.A. with a friend to a Bible Study Class. Elected secretary. II Eph. 2:15, 3:16. Adjourned to meet again Thursday night to provide a social for next Tuesday evening.

[113]
1. August
Calisthenics and trench digging in morning. Bayonet exercise and semaphore signaling in afternoon. Chased in by heavy rain. Went to Y.M.C.A. and heard Episcopalian minister speak. "Success in Life."
2. August
Trench digging and calisthenics as usual. Semaphore signaling, Bayonet practice and infantry drill.

[114]
3. August
Missed our march, reported to the hospital. Infantry drill, semaphore signaling and manual of arms. Sham battle in the moonlight between Reserve officers and 7th Regiment Engineers.
Saturday 4. August
Stood inspection after coming from the hospital. Almost failed. Took my clothes (some of them) out for a good washing.

[115]
5. August
Wrote some letters and went to Y.M.C.A. Bible class. Went to sleep and missed services in evening. Wrote several letters in afternoon.

6. August
Calisthenics until the rain drove us in. Knots and lashes until noon. Guard duty and infantry drill in afternoon. Went to French class for first time at Y.M.C.A. taught by Professor Cooper of Kansas University.

[116]
7. August
Practised rowing in poontoon boats on Merit Lake. In the afternoon we practised manual of arms, infantry drill and bayonet exercise. Placed on guard at night.
8. August
Continued on guard until 6 p.m. My hours were 6-8 and 12-2 a.m. and 6-8 and 12-2 p.m. Went to French class in evening. Ran all over the place looking for fire.

[117]
9. August
All had calisthenics, then went to Merit Lake to build pontoon. After building one we went to dinner. Bayonet practice and infantry drill in afternoon. Payday. Drew 30 dollars. Sent 20 home. Went to French class in evening.
10. August
Took a long march into the country north of the fort. Had as skirmishing. In the afternoon we cleaned barracks--- I cleaning windows as usual. Prepared for inspection.

[118]
11 August
Stood inspection at 8:30 a.m. and drilled until noon. Took physical examination and went to my French class in afternoon. Continued reading two good books.

12. August
Arose feeling especially fine. Went to Sunday School and church at the Methodist and Congregational churches. Slept in afternoon. Visited Donald's after supper and met another West Virginian. Went to church at Methodist in evening.

[119]
13. August
Calisthenics for 1 hour. Detached to load boats (pontoon) on wagons.
In afternoon we had signaling and watched three mines go off having 250 lbs. of dynamite in them.
14. August
Raining in the morning. Made toy bridges while it rained. Signaling by semaphore method until noon. On fatigue and helped clean officers quarters. Proceeded to my French class after supper and later to the Bible class. had the social as usual. 28 present; 38 enrolled.

[120]
15. August
Raining again in the morning. We had knots and lashes and bridge building in the morning. Wigwagging in the afternoon. A talk from the Capitan on "Discipline." Heard Dennis, Prof. of Northwestern Univ. at Y.M.C.A. Went to Chautauqua also and heard fine address on "Fools!"
16. August
The morning terribly foggy. Calisthenics for an hour. Helped build another pontoon bridge and tear it down. In afternoon we had wigway signaling and infantry drill. In evening I went to Y.M.C.A. to service (song) and later to French class.

[121]
17. August
We had calisthenics as usual for 1 hour. Then we went to Merit Lake and built a pontoon bridge by sections.
In afternoon we cleaned barracks preparing for inspection tomorrow. Experimented on washing shirt OD and trousers.
18. August
Saturday
Stood inspection with arms, of packs in field and of barracks.
Went to French class in afternoon. Spent rest of time writing letters.

[122]
19. August
Went to church and Sunday School with Garnsen and Young. Wrote two letters in the afternoon. In the evening I went to the Y.M.C.A. to hear a lecture on the Philippines. Fine. Continued reading, "Letters from a Self Made Merchant to his Son."
20. August
Rainy in the morning. Calisthenics, knots and lashes, block and tackle and side and balk lashings. Pitching of shelter halves, infantry drill and manual of arms in afternoon. Went to French class taught by Prof. Cooper.

[123]
Bible Class. Eph. 21-8-9.
21. August
Romans 2: Matt 23. Carry balks for a pontoon bridge and helped take it down. Infantry drill in the afternoon, signaling and tent pitching.
Went to Bible class in evening and heard a fine discussion. Refreshments were served. See above topics.
22. August
Calisthenics were given then we were taken to the hospital to be inoculated for paratyphoid. No drilling the rest of the day. I had real bad headache and was sick about all day, but was present at French class.

[124]
23. August
We were excused from drill today. We laid around all day. Went to Leavenworth in the evening, then to the Y.M.C.A. to hear the Sailors Quartet.
24. August
Calisthenics and trench digging in the morning. Cleaning barracks in the afternoon. Went to Leavenworth to inquire about my laundry then to the "Lyceum." Saw Lady Lawson's Secret," A five reel feature. First.

[125]
25. August
Saturday
Policed barracks stood inspection and drilled in the morning. In the afternoon I read "David Copperfield" and slept alternately. Was room orderly from 6 o'clock p.m.
26. August
Did my morning work as room orderly then read the rest of my book. Went to Epworth League and church at Methodist and Presbyterian churches respectively.

[126]
Calisthenics
27. August
Dug trenches until noon. Drill in close and extended order. My captain warned me to have everything in my pack for inspection. Showed packs. Went to French class in evening. **
28. August
Calisthenics as usual. Trench digging until noon. Drill in heavy marching order. Special drill in signaling. Put up shelter tents. Stood battalion parade. Went to Bible Class in evening. Sixty four present. Did not get to hear the talk, but helped prepare lemonade and cookies.

[127]
29. August
Had calisthenics 3/4 hour as usual. We were then inoculated for paratyphoid and did nothing the rest of the morning. had semaphore signaling in the afternoon and shelter half pitching. Went to French class under Mrs. Bolduy Professor Cooper not being present.
30. August
Calisthenics and trench digging in the morning. Semaphore signaling, putting up shelter halves tents and infantry drill in the afternoon.

[128]
31. August
At seven we went to the shooting gallery to try ourselves out. I made some good shots in the afternoon but we did not do anything but wait and drill in the forenoon. Lost my knife that mamma gave me. I was put on guard at 4:00 p.m. after standing muster at 1:00 p.m. (mistake. muster was yesterday.)
We went on guard duty I getting post #8--the ordnance depot and post office to guard. My hours were 7:30-9:30 and 1:30-3:30. Chased a prisoner to supper to signal corps barracks.

[129]
1. September
1:30-3:30 a.m. was last period to guard. Slept part of the time but finished reading "David Copperfield." Went to Merit Lake to guard while the guard went to breakfast. Relieved at 4:30 p.m. Practiced signaling with Plyer from West Va.
2. September
Taken to hospital for physical inspection. Detained until too late to go to Sunday School. Took some pictures with Plyer in afternoon and went to church and league in the evening. finished reading "Letter's from a Self-Made Merchant."

[130]
To His son.
Monday 3. September
We dug trenches until noon. Infantry drill and bayonet practice in the afternoon. I attended the French class in the evening. We are getting along much better and I am enjoying it more and more.
4. September
After calisthenics we dug trenches until noon. Afternoon we had aiming drill and infantry drill. Swatted flies in the kitchen until supper. After parade (battalion) I went to the Bible Class at the Y.M.C.A. Romans 4:5

[131]
Wednesday.
5. September
We were taken to the hospital to receive our third inoculation for paratyphoid. We had no other duties the rest of the day so I did some laundry work, slept a little, studied some French and a small book on arms use and care. Went to French class in evening.
6. September
Calisthenics and trench digging until noon. Infantry drill and manual of arms in afternoon. Watched to the Y.M.C.A. Gymnasium to exercise at night. hard rain late. Scolding for laughing at some officers awkwardness.

[132]
7. September
Too wet to dig trenches. Calisthenics and ropes and lashes until after 9 a.m. Arming and firing (trigger squeeze) exercised until noon. Cleaning barracks in the afternoon. Learned Professor Cooper would soon leave. Oh, I'm so sorry.
8. September
Stood inspection in the field with half packs. In the afternoon I read, slept and repaired my clothing. I went to Leavenworth in the evening and tried to get a settlement for lost laundry but failed.

[133]
Thursday.
13. September
Continued on the firing line at the target range. Am working for marksmanship but I may not get it, came in tired and retired early We have fine dinners in the field, will we while in France.
14. September
Continued firing at target practice. This is our last day on the range. We have been here all week. Mr. Alkire wrote me a letter and sent me a Tribune. He has always been kind and accommodating.

[134]
Saturday
15. September
Today is payday. Yes, I have just drawed my 30 bucks. Now I have tonight a few necessaries, sent 16 dollars home to finish paying note in bank. Last debt on my education. Free! Free! Again Laundry work finished, read some in "Pleas & Profit in B. Study."
16 September
Went with Plyer to Sunday School and church. In the afternoon, I went to the old Soldier's Home where Plyer and I took some pictures. Enjoyed ourselves very much. went to Y.M.C.A. in evening and heard deputy marshal talk on the other side of a soldier's life.

[135]
Monday.
17. September
In the morning, we had bayonet practice, trench digging, and in the afternoon battalion parade practice and skirmishing. Went to the Y.M.C.A. to put my roll book in good condition not being permitted to attend. Am now putting all my energy in my work to make the last soldier poised.
18. September.
Placed on special duty to Instrument detail for learning surveying instruments and how to use them. In afternoon we had battalion drill and company drill.
Placed on guard at 4: p.m. Hours: 8-10 p.m. and 2-4 a.m.

[136]
Wednesday.
19. September
Nothing to do today but loiter around the guard house. Wrote several letters in the morning and in the evening, not failing however to get my sleep between times. Relieved at last. tired and worn out. Doing nothing makes one tired quick.
20. September
Was placed on special detail to unload two cars of wagons for pontoon boats. Dismissed about 4: p.m. after retreat. I being tired and the lights suddenly failing, retired only to be restless all the night, I think.

[137]
21. September
Took a hike over the hills which ended in an advance on a railroad bridge about 10 a.m. which was occupied by Company B. Cooked my own dinner in the field by Army methods for the first time in my life. Oh, it was great to eat "hardtack" like we actually will in real warfare!
22 September
Stood inspection at 10:30 a.m. Afternoon I washed my canteen cover, cartridge belt and first aid packet cover. in the evening I went to the Y.M.C.A. and wrote several letters.

[138]
23. September
Went to Sunday School at the Methodist Church with my friend Plyer. In the afternoon I slept. Plyer and I with some friend went to the Church of the Open Door. We enjoyed the evening and sermon very much and made several acquaintances. The lesson of the Lion's Den at Sun. School.
24. September
Went to the target range for record fire, but I did not shoot. I was sent to the pits at the targets and there I worked hard all day. I was tired at night and retired early to be fresh to shoot on the morrow.

[139]
Tuesday.
25. September
Went to the range to shoot for record fire. Am trying to make "marksmanship." Shot 10 shots scoring 34 out of 50. Began to rain. I went under a tree where the boys had a fire. no more firing. Knots and lashes and "first aid" instruction in the afternoon. Bible class in evening.
26. September
To went to go to range. Rained nearly all day. Reported on Instrument detail in the morning. In the afternoon we assembled to practice first aid devices and methods after which we listened to a lecture on "first aid" given by one of the medical lieutenants. Went to the Y.M.C.A. to hear a lecture given by a Frenchman on "The War in France."

[140]
27. September
Went to the range again to fire for record. Made scores as follows: Slowfire:
300 yds 34 out of 50
500 yds 34 out of 50
600 yds 35 out of 50
Rapid Fire:
200 yds 40 out of 50
300 yds 29 out of 50
500 yds 28 out of 50. Failed
Four points to make "Marksman." My eyes became weak and failed on me. Went to barracks just worn out.
28. September
Again went to the range to watch the rest of our company fire but came in about 10:30 and cleaned our guns until noon. Cleaned barracks until work was finished. Went to Y.M>C.A. and heard 5 Alpine Yodlers and singers. Wrote some letters!

[141]
Saturday.
29. September
Stood inspection in the morning at 10:30. Visited the Great Western Stove factory in the afternoon. They have a capacity of 250 daily. Mr. Cartwright showed us-- Archer & myself thru the establishment. Went to the Y.M.C.A. in the evening and wrote several letters. Heard the Alpine Yodlers again also.
30. September
Went to Sunday School at the Church of the Open Door on Randolph St. Afternoon I went to the rifle range and made a collection of rifle bullets, also large H5's. Went to the Epworth League at the Methodist Church in the evening.

[142]
1. October
Reported to detail on instrument work in morning. Learned how to adjust an instrument. Pitched shelter halves in the afternoon. Placed on guard at 4:00 p.m. at Merit Lake. Hours 7:00-10:00 p.m. A lonesome watch but I enlivened the solitary moments in the moonlight by signing to myself.
2. October
Guard hours: 2:00-4:00 a.m. none p.m. Slept about all my spare time until noon. Wrote alot of letters in the afternoon and evening. Took a good bath and did not leave the barracks but retired instead.

[143]
3. October
Reported on Instrument detail. Learned to take distances and horizontal and vertical angles. Also to adjust the transit. In the afternoon we were examined for infectious diseases as part of the regiment was under quarantine. Went to the Y.M.C.A. and heard Lucey of the Mo. Mule lecture.
4. October
Did the same work today as yesterday. We had bayonet exercises both days. In the afternoon evening I went to the Y.M.C.A. with Plyler. He has almost decided to not learn to dance. Loaned him my Bible.

[144]
5. October
Took a hike with the company. Was a patrol for the company. While they held the trolley bridge from the enemy-- B. Company. In the evening I cleaned my gun. Remained in barracks during the evening.

Saturday 6. October
Cleaned barracks and stood inspection in the morning. Captain reminded me that I needed a haircut. Did some laundry work in the afternoon trying to save. Subscribed for two Liberty Loan Bonds of %5 each. Went to Y.M.C.A. in evening.

[145]
7. October
Went to Sunday School in the aft morning at the Methodist Church. Plyler and I took some pictures in the afternoon at Grant's monument. Staid at barracks in evening. Took picture of steam plow in morning also.
8. October
Reported on special instrument detail. Learned to take notes and run a level. Stood physical inspection for infectious diseases. Payday. Drawed $30. Sent D.C. Arnold $7.00. Went to Y.M.C.A. to Bible Class. Several present. About 45 I think.

[146]
9. October
Bayonet practice until 8: a.m. Special Instrument detail until noon. Took notes. Preliminary judging of distances, after inspection for infectious diseases, in the afternoon.

10. October
Daily routine same as yesterday except that I came in from a 3-4 mile hike just in time to go on guard without supper. Secured it later. Hours of active duty: 9-11 pm; 3-5 a.m. the 11th inst.

[147]
11. October
Yesterday at supper and today at breakfast each chased a prisoner to his barracks for his meal. Slept all morning today.

12. October
Went on a 13-15 mile hike this morning out in the country. Ate our dinner west of the trenches. Was on patrol duty just before noon. Paid 10 cents for 4 apples and 5 cents for 2 pears. Got them of an old man.

[148]
13. October
Cleaned barracks and stood inspection at 10:30 a.m. Capt. Kuentz and Lieut. Engle gave us another talk on Liberty Bonds. Did my laundry work in afternoon. Went to Y.M.C.A. and wrote some letters.
Sunday. 14. October
Went to Sunday School at Methodist Church. Worked in office of Army Y.M.C.A. in afternoon and after the talk by Chaplain Axton of the Disciplinary Bar

[149]
15. October
Reported on Special training detail. Started drawing military symbols and signs for maps. Was on patrol duty under Sergeant Laird in afternoon. Was put on list as room orderly. Did not get to Bible class.
16. October
Worked hard with Pvt. Oliphant to clean quarters all morning. Acted part time as man in "charge of quarters." Went to Y.M.C.A. without Plyler. Attended program then played checkers with Archer. Won 4 out of 7.

[150]
17. October
Reported at 7:30 a.m. at Regimental Supply Office as orderly. Went on several errands for Capt. Osborn and Lieut. Speer. Dismissed about 4:00 p.m.

18. October
Reported on special training detail in morning. Learned to carry rod for transit. Physical inspection at noon. Company drill and manual of arms in afternoon. Went to Y.M.C.A. and carried the mailbag to Leav. Post Office.

[151]
19. October
Went on a hike of from 16-18 miles. Just "all in" when I returned at 12:30 p.m. In afternoon we stood battalion drill and at 5:00 p.m. stood battalion parade.

20. October
Policed barracks and stood inspection at 10:30 a.m. Physical inspection V. Wrote several letters at the Y.M.C.A.

[152]
Sunday
21. October
Went to Sunday School and church at Methodist Church as usual. Also at Epworth League. Slept all afternoon until after 4:00 p.m.
"Saul which was also called Paul."
22. October
Reported on special training detail. Wrote conventional signs until noon the weather being rainy. Physical inspection for infectious diseases. Learned to wash leather and web equipment. Went to Y.M.C.A. Bible Class at Y.M>C.A. Fine! 1 Corr. 15: & 1 Thes. 4.

[153]
23. October
Reported at Regimental Supply office with Snook. Swept office and hall. Handled about 400 cots for the recruits in the 6 companies of the regiment. Like Lieutenant Spear and Capt. Osborne very much.

24. October
Liberty Loan Day at Ft. Leav. Kansas today. In morning I wrote some letters home. In afternoon we were taken to Riding Hall and were spoken to by several men-- one a U.S. Senator from Kansas. Witnessed a football game between the Engineers and Signal Corps. Score 26-0 in favor of us. Went to Y.M.C.A. and teased some S.C. boys awhile.

[154]
25. October
Reported for special training as usual. I worked the level. In afternoon I got infantry drill with Company A. Played basketball at Y.M.C.A. at night. Played checkers with Archer. Won 5, lost 5. Placed on committee to arrange for Halloween social at Y.M.C.A.

26. October
Took a 14-16 mile hike in the morning until 12:30 p.m. thru mud 2-3 inches deep. Sore and tired from walking so much. Company drill in afternoon until 3:00 p.m. Received my overcoat for winter. Placed on guard at trenches at 5:00 p.m. Hours: 5:00-7:00 p.m., 11:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. Started to rain. Got well soaked. Witnessed sham battle. No sleep.

[155]
27. October
continued on guard. Hours: 5:00-7:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Relieved 5:00 p.m. Eat supper, took a hot shower bath and retired after cleaning my equipment.

Sunday. 28 October
Went to the Y.M.C.A. in the morning, later to Post Chapel. Heard address by Chaplain Roberts-- For he looked for a city, etc. Fine. Went to Y.M.C.A. in afternoon and read a little.

[156]
29. October
Reported on special training detail. Learned to multiply by slide rule. Worked in conventional signs. Battalion and company drill afternoon. After retreat I went to our Bible Class. Mr. Cartwright gave us a live lesson. Then we all enjoyed ourselves in a social good time.
30. October
Reported on special training detail. Learned to run the Stadia computer. Was given a map to contour. Infantry drill in the afternoon. At night I attended a meeting of the "Inner Circle" led by Chaplain Roberts of the 7th Engr. Subject: How to get company Bible Classes started in the Regiment.

[157]
31. October
Muster at 8:30: (signed payroll yesterday). Did not report on special training detail but helped Cpl. Alexander get some goods from the Quartermaster Dept. Helped him check over the equipment in the afternoon. At night immediately after retreat I went to the Y.M.C.A. to a Halloween stag party.
Stayed at the gates to the city of Leavenworth and helped the boys "get thru." Saw the "shadow operation" in the gym and heard some fine singing. We are looking to leave the Fort pretty quick now.

[158]
1. November
Reported on special training detail. Had to carry the rod for the boys in determining elevations for a contour map. In afternoon we had battalion and company drill. At night I did my washing and remained in barracks until bedtime.
2. November
Our company marched to the trenches to go thru war maneuvers during the day. In the morning I was detailed to cut barbed wire entanglements and dig shell holes. In evening I went to Rev. Mr. Cartright's home for supper. First meal I've eat at a home since leaving my own.

[159]
3. November
Helped police barracks and stood inspection. Presented report on ordnance to Capt. Koyln, our new captain. Wrote letter to sister, mother, and "Blanche" in afternoon. Remained in barracks until bedtime.

Sunday 4. November
Went to Sunday School at Methodist Church and to Church at the Presbyterian. Subject- "Fellowship with Jesus." Text: "Abide in me and I in you." Went to Y.M.C.A. in evening and heard Dean Horn of Parleville College give an address.

[160]
5. November
Relieved from special training detail. Helped in pontoon bridge building on detail in boating. Practice in throwing hand grenades (rocks) in afternoon. Bible class in evening. Attended late. Company marched to a prize fight at 7 p.m. Went against my will.
6. November
Went to Merritt Lake and placed chess during the building of a pontoon bridge which took 1 1/2 hours. Took 24 minutes to take it down. 260 feet long. had battalion drill in afternoon on parade ground. Threw some more hand grenades. Went to Inner Circle meeting at Y.M.C.A. held by Chaplain Roberts of the 7th Eng. He is such a fine leader!

[161]
7. November
Went to hill east of Federal Prison. Stormed the trenches in a bayonet charge. In second wave consisting of hand grenadiers. In the afternoon we had a picture of the company taken and received an hour's instruction on-- "How to Salute."
8. November
Went to Merritt Lake. had semaphore signaling 1 hr. In instructed our squad escorted across the lake by Co. B. In afternoon we drilled before the Colonel Patten. Went to Y.M.C.A. at night to Inner Circle meeting. We discussed our last lesson,

[162]
9. November
Went to trenches east of Federal prison. Dug "shell" holes in morning and build them into fortifications. In afternoon I went with company to Riding Hall and heard lecture on Sailor's and Soldiers' insurance. Staid in barracks at night and rested and read.
10. November
Saturday
Policed barracks and stood inspection at 10:30 a.m. In the afternoon I wrote 2 letters. In the evening I walked to Leavenworth with Plyler and we heard Lieut. O'Grady of the Canadian Army speak at the High School on "Many of the Soldiers at the Front"

[163]
Sunday
11. November
Went to Chapel at 10:45 and heard Rev. Roberts, Chaplain give an address on "The Common People gladly received Him." In afternoon we went on a "persimmon hunt which ended in a "Bible Class." In evening I went to Y.M.C.A. and heard a professor of Park College give an address, "Keeping Clean as did Jesus." Resisting Temptation.
12. November
Went to trenches to work. Worked during reliefs until 11:00 at shoveling. Company drill in afternoon until 3:00 company divided into platoons at 3:15 went to Bible Class in evening. Subject: "God's plan of Redemption" Death and Resurrection of Christ, Life of the church, His Second Coming, the Great Judgement and the Mill in.

[164]
13. November
Went with company to trenches. Helped build a sod stove in a "dug out" until noon. In afternoon company drill. At night I went to Y.M.C.A. but there was no Inner Circle Meeting so Plyler and I played checkers until time to retire.
14. November
Rowed ponton boats over the lake, started a ponton bridge and tore it down in the morning. Company drill in the afternoon with privates and corporals trying corporals' and sergeants' work: Bible class in mess hall at 7:30 led by Beam. 7 present. Enthusiastic.

[165]
Thursday
15. November
Built several canvas ponton boats and built a bridge over N.E. arm of Merritt Lake in the morning. Bayonet practice with charging in afternoon. Placed on guard at Leav. Term. Bridge in evening. Hours: 7:30-9:30 and 1:30-3:30. Slept in box car between times. Had an interesting experience searching for explosives.
16. November
Continued on guard. In the early morning I fout a battle with the Devil. Won with God's help. Relieved at 5:15 p.m. Eat supper an hour later and after taking a shower bath went to bed. Dreamed that I saw the Holy City descending upon Earth. And I was saved! How happy I was then!

[166]
17. November
Cleaned barracks. At 8:30 we fell out to parade thru Leavenworth. There was a line of Ponton boats and other equipment. The men in ranks came last. We marched at attention all thru the town. Gee! Twas hard. In afternoon I slept but in the evening Plyler and I went to town. Saw "The Antics of Aunt" at the emporium.
18. November
Swept 2 porches and cleaned a cuspidor for my morning work. Went to Chapel at 10:45. Was put in the choir. In afternoon Willard of the Signal Corps and I went to the trenches. Showed several boys thru them. In evening I went to Cartright's Church of the Open Door.

[167]
Monday
19. November
Went to the woods and piled brush in the morning. Worked hard. In the afternoon we had company drill also skirmishing. I went to our Hamestring Club at night as usual to study God's Holy Truth. Mr. Cartright told us we must have faith to "get our man."
20. November
Went on a detail to the range to pull targets while recruits shot for record. In the evening I mailed two letters and went to Inner Circle meeting held at Y.M.C.A. by Chaplain Roberts. "John preparing the nation for Christ's Coming.

[168]
21. November
On target range detail until noon. In the afternoon we had company charges on trenches on European plan. At night our company Bible Class met in Mess Hall with 4 present. Plyler came later. Subject: Prophecy and coming of John and the great work he did.
22. November
Company went to the woods to clean out underbrush and tree tops from woods. Worked all day until about 3:00 p.m.
Real chilly but we staid near a fire for dinner. Went to Y.M.C.A. and helped Shriner at desk. Played checkers with him and beat him nearly every game.

[169]
Friday.
23. November
Company went to trenches. I dug or shoveled all morning. In the afternoon I drilled with the company. At night I visited Plyler at Company F. After going to the canteen I retired for the night.
24. November
Reported to hospital at sick call for bad cold and weak eyes. Helped Cpl. Alexander draw blankets from the Q.M. Worked in the office typewriting all afternoon. Had charge of Y.M.C.A. in evening until 8:40. Went on errand to Chaplain Robert and later to National Hotel to see Mr. Root for Army Y.M.C.A.

[170]
Sunday
25. November
Reported in kitchen early before reville for kitchen police. Worked hard all day washing dishes and preparing food for the soldiers. Stopped work about 6:00 p.m. Took a shave, cleaned myself good and after reading a while retired.

26. November
Went to kitchen early. Worked hard all day but tried to get even eating. I think I have the best of the bargain. Went to Bible Class in evening. Mr. Cartright gave us some more of God's Truth and its explanation.

[171]
Tuesday
27. November
Kitchen Police as usual. At noon I heard good news. I was promoted to 1st Class Private, received a large package from home, was removed from the kitchen to the office. How glad I am. Went to a Thanksgiving party in evening on invitation of Y.W.C.A of Leav. Fine time!
28. November
Worked in office all day but not much to do. Helped Corporal English making up the books for about 50 or 60 recruits. Had our company Bible Class with 11 present. Bean teacher. Subject:

[172]
29. November
Worked in office all day. had an invitation to dine with Rev. Mr. Butcher but declined because of work in the office. Had a fine dinner with plenty of turkey. Went to a revival meeting at the Baptist Church in evening.
30. November
Office work as usual. Not much to do. in evening I again went to the Baptist Revival. Enjoyed the talk very much. Plyler was with me also stood muster today.

[173]
Saturday
1. December
Worked in the office until time to prepare for inspection. Stood inspection at 10:30. Worked in office rest of day. Wrote 5 letters at night at the Y.M.C.A.
2. December
Worked in the office until time to go to church. Went to Chapel and heard a fine talk on "The Ideal Man, by E.C. Hunter? of the Medical Corps. Went to Mr. Cartright's in the evening.

[174]
3. December
Worked in the office until time to go on guard for today is my turn. Placed at post #2. Hours 9:30-11:00 and 3:30 to 5:30. On 3d relief.
4. December
Continued on guard. Chased 2 prisoners to breakfast and guarded another while he cleaned out the guard house. Worked on post no. 11 for 2 hours. Relieved about 5:35 p.m.

[175]
Wednesday
5. December
Reported to office early. Worked on clothing slips. Posted (helped English) the pool, barber, picture and other accounts to the ledger. Worked until 10:00 p.m. Depended on the class but there was no class. Only two came, more would.
6. December
Reported to the office about 7:15 a.m. Worked about all day checking the posting and working the collection sheet. Went after the mail and in the afternoon made a trip to the Army Service School for a book for Capt. Hodgson.

[176]
7. December
Program for early mornings: Posting my pool, barber and shines accounts to personal or individual accounts in the ledger.

Saturday 8. December
Worked all day. Did not get my usual 1/2 holiday in afternoon.

[177]
Sunday
9. December
Went to Post Chapel for services as usual. An awfully cold day.
Went to Y.M.C.A. and wrote several letters (I think). This day and a few later on were not kept promptly.
10. December
Went to "Hamestring Club" as usual on Mondays. Mr. Cartright gave us a fine explanation of the Holy Scriptures. He was no better than usual for he was always fine.

[178]
11. December
Continued office work.

12. December
Worked in the office until late and could not attend class (company).

[179]
13. December
Held the usual company Bible Class with 8 present.

14. December
Went with Corporal Alexander to movies at Y.M.C.A. Received invitations to go to an Xmas party held by Y.W.C.A. at 11worth. he tried collect about $800.00 Payday: Drawed $5.98 after all deductions.

[180]
15. December
Worked all day.
In evening Plyler and I went to Leavenworth to purchase a few Xmas presents.

16. December
Sunday
Went to Sunday School and church at the Methodist Church. In evening we went to Chaplains Roberts and organized a Young People's Christian Endeavor; later we proceeded to Church of the Open Door. We bade Mr. Cartright adieu--perhaps forever.

[181]
17. December
Worked hard all day on typewriting applications for insurance. Went to Y.W.C.A. Xmas party. Went home with A.E. Robinson went with L.B. Sang hymns and an immensely enjoyable evening. Felt like home.
18. December
Took a trip to Army Service Schools for 11 Non Com. Manuals of infantry. Purchased one for myself. Went to Inner Circle. Sent home a few presents. B.B., H.B., O.S.

[182]
Wednesday
19. December
Worked in Co. office from December 7, until today every day at the regular routine. Getting to be some insurance agent. Have written up hundreds of thousands of dollars worth in about two days.

20. December

Went to Y.M.C.A. at night and assisted clerk in office.

[183]
21. December

After work of day wrote several letters in office. Went to Y.M.C.A. and mailed them later.

22 December
Went to Leavenworth in evening to Orpheum with A.E. Had quite an enjoyable evening in company with my friend. Retired at a late hour.

[184]
Sunday
23. December
Sleepy today but must work just the same. Slept next night good and soundly.

24. December
Xmas Eve. The Christ Child. A life of service for my sins. A lowly birth and a cruel murder--all for my sins.
Tomorrow---He was born.

[185]
25. December
Today our Savior's birthday. That we might have Eternal Life. Jesus teach us to take this Blessed Day seriously for Thy Namesake. Had a fine dinner but did not enjoy it.
26. December
Work the same as before Xmas. only a few present. Large number on the sick report. But who can blame them for eating one decent meal and that on Xmas. Let 'em eat.

[186]
27. December
The company would be a lonesome place were it not for the work. Sergeant Kraus gone home on a furlough, leaving us lots of work for company while he is home.
Friday 28. December
Gee, just think of the work on that muster roll and payroll. Also I must go to town tomorrow night to go to the pictures---with someone---A.E. Can hardly wait until then. Why so anxious.

[187]
29. December
Worked morning afternoon and night? No. Haven't forgotten that call I made last night. Had an excellent time both during the Egyptian picture and afterwards.

30. December
Sunday
Arose late? No! Stood Reveille with the company as usual. Sleepy all day. Worked all day Sunday not getting to go to church anywhere. The worst part of Army work. No rest in the office.

[188]
31. December
Feel better today but am kicking myself because I didn't go home. Sgt. Kraus returned. has the muster roll completed and signed. Working on the payroll. Am still helping my friends eat some of their nuts, candy, cake and the many other "goodies" received from home---"and elsewhere." Oh how good those dates and figs of Alexander are. I wonder when he'll get another such box.

[189]
Summary
1917
January 1st I was handling the Principalship of the school at Oakmont, West Va. My time went swiftly as my work was so attractive and interesting. My school closed about March 17, when I started to the Prep. of the W. Va. University. Several credits I received in the short time by hard work and my school days ended about June June 5th. On a debate for "Old Reynolds" but my opponents won a victory over me.

[190]
I enlisted in the Engineer Corps at Cumberland, Md. June 8, went to Baltimore, next to Columbus, and lastly to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. June 13. In less than a week all this happened to me. In about six weeks we were turned over for duty. Placed on special training detail for instrument work about October first; relieve No. 5. got my week of kitchen police just before Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving I was promoted to Private first class and relieved from Kitchen Police. Placed on duty in company office. Xmas came and I found I had made "marksmanship" on range.