In Barracks and Wigwam — page 82: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

_ tatron, and an are feeling of contrition and shame. 72 -~—-—«<Off to the Frontier. Of.the-trials, difficulties, and humble position Of a pri- vate soldier Linn knew little, nor, had he been fully in-- formed, would he have allowed himself to be daunted. He was strong, plucky, and well educated, and his mind was firmly set on carving out a military career, in spite of all and any obstacles that he might meet. There were a few knotty points at the outset, but Linn . planned: how to conquer these as he traveled westward that day. Some time before he had seen the recruiting circular issued by the office at Harrisburg, and he remem- bered pretty clearly what was required of an applicant for enlistment. _ The long ride came to an end at last, and late in the afternoon Linn left the train at Pittsburg. He knew there was a recruiting station here, and an inquiry at the depot gave him the information he wanted. Ten minutes - later he reached the place. A colored lithograph repre- ‘senting a group of officers and privates was posted up outside, and a uniformed sergeant was solemnly march- ing to and fro on the pavement before the door. This individual ushered the lad up stairs and into the presence of the recruiting officer. The latter was a man of about forty, with a pleasing expression and kindly eyes. Linn briefly and coolly explained his wish, concluding with a stipulation made in positive terms. “l want to be sent straight to the frontier,” he said, “where I will find opportunities of advancement. If I enlist it is with that understanding.”’ “Your request is rather unusual,” replied the officer, “bat I think it can be Anes if you pass muster. How old are you?” “Highteen,”’ Linn answered, with a slight trace of hesi- com chooks C @) ee