Daily Advocate
Baton Rouge
May 7, 1861
Mr. Editor—Here we are all safe and sound, becoming rapidly initiated into the regular routine of camp life. We all find it a somewhat different matter from the holiday soldiering at home, but the duties imposed are cheerfully and bravely met. It is a somewhat strange spectacle to see young men reared amid the comforts and luxuries of home-life, doing soldiers duty, bending over the camp fire, preparing meals or boiling coffee; tears streaming from their eyes caused by villainous smoke from these same camp-fires; carrying wood and water; and when the day’s duties are ended, lying down upon a board or the bare ground, with a knapsack or stick of wood for a pillow and single blanket for a covering. These are but a portion of the hardships undergone, yet the very fact that all these are endured cheerfully by those unaccostomed to such duties, shows the unmistakable spirit aroused among the Southern people by the aggressive policy of Old Abe.
Since our departure we have been enthusiastically welcomed and cheered on our way, especially by the ladies, who, God bless them, seem most enthusiastic in our glorious cause, although with aching hearts and streaming eyes, they part, perhaps forever, from brothers, fathers and dear friends.
There are upwards of 3000 troops encamped here, and each day sees the number augmented. I counted 425 tents pitched upon these grounds, while every building is full. It is a fine spectacle when night has thrown its dark mantle over the earth, to see the numerous campfires, surrounded by groups of men or the regular rows of this city of tents, all lighted up from within, while the laugh and song and jest mingled with strains of instrumental music, and the roll of the drum are borne away on the evening breeze.
Among all the companies on the ground, the Pelican Rifles are best equipped, and thanks to the untiring preserverance and efficiency of our officers, (I say it with all due deference to our companions in arms,) the best drilled.
During our short stay in New Orleans, our marching was highly commended. Whenever we were out, the pavement, balconies and houses were thronged with stout-hearted men and fair women, who gave us many parting tokens and a heart-felt God speed.
Concerning our future movements, I can say nothing, but wherever we go, or whenever, I shall strive to drop you a line.
Yesterday, the Davis guards, a gallant body of men from Louisville, left en route for Richmond, Va. Be assured Mr. Editor, that the Pelican’s wills never give Baton Rouge cause to be ashamed of her young first volunteer company. With many kind remembrances for dear friends at home, I remain, respectfully, etc.
W. H. T.