India rubber cloaks are in requisition too.
Those who are going, claim the doctor in case of accidents.

Those who stay, their wives at least, want him for fear of measles; while the disciple of Esculapius, though he knows there will be better cooking if he remain at home, is certain there will be food for fun if he go.

It is soon decided--the doctor goes.
Then the privates share in the pleasure of the day.

How should a soldier be employed but in active service?
besides, what a capital chance to desert! One, who is tired of calling "All's well" through the long night, with only the rocks and trees to hear him, hopes that it will be his happy fate to find out there is danger near, and to give the alarm, Another vows, that if trouble wont come, why he will bring it by quarrelling with the first rascally Indian he meets.

All is ready.
Rations are put up for the men;--hams, buffalo tongues, pies and cake for the officers.