Our course was a decided success, and we returned to Halifax and
resumed our usual duties. The American civil war was still in progress,
and the city was generally in a state of excitement. There was much
anxiety as to the battles being fought and the news that would be
received for the next bulletin. Of course, both sides had their
friends, and there were a great many Americans sojourning in the city.

For many years outposts were established at points easily reached and
accessible to the United States, to prevent deserters entering that
country. The troops in garrison furnished the men to occupy these
posts, and many a would-be deserter had been captured and returned to
their respective corps. Our band, now among the best in H. M. service,
gave concerts in the Horticultural Gardens, which were highly
appreciated. We had an occasional field day, our strength being
augmented by the addition of the two militia battalions and the naval
brigade from the warships in the harbor. These parades were always
enjoyed by the citizens.

With extreme regret I had to part with my captain; he had received an
appointment as staff officer of pensioners in Australia. I must inform
the reader that the captain and color-sergeant are closely allied. The
sergeant is the captain's secretary, and they confer when necessary on
matters pertaining to the company's standing, etc. Captain John Hunter
was succeeded by Captain William Robinson, who came to us from the 1st
Battalion; he was a very young captain and also a handsome soldier. He
served with his battalion in the Crimea. At the age of seventeen he was
gazetted ensign and went to the front almost immediately. I said
good-bye to Captain Hunter, and Lieutenant Gamble (who, I believe, was
born and educated in the city of Toronto) took command of the company
until the arrival of the new captain.

As the winter approaches, drill ceases and we become active in the
theatrical line. There has been added to the gymnasium a small theatre,
where we shall hold our entertainments. The garrison is commanded by
Major-General Sir Charles Hastings Doyle. He is a great friend of the
soldier, and is always ready to do anything in his power for the
enjoyment and pleasure of the troops. Captain Robinson arrives, and I
meet one of the handsomest soldiers I have yet seen. He is young and
fair, tall and commanding, and his unassumed dignity is in keeping with
his handsome physique. He extends his hand and giv