To return. The spit on which we were encamped was bordered on one side by large ponds, known as Hampton Ponds, in these ponds, I sometime went duck hunting, finding plenty of the feathered tribe, but they were extremely wild. One day, having better luck than usual, I succeeded in killing two very large Duck O Mallards, over which we had a royal feast, prepared by the skillful hands of our cooks. My uncles and myself went out several times to hunt them, and sometimes with success. I fished some in these ponds, but it was too late in the year and consequently I failed to catch any.
While at this camp we spent our time most drilling and performing the various duties of camp. it was here also that our Regiment was organized, officers elected, etc. The following officers were elected; Ex-Governor John H. Means1, Colonel, who afterwards proved his right to this and higher honors by his evident ability, by the valor displayed, by the confidence of his Regiment, and at last, by his glorious death on the heroic plains of Manassas2. Fitz W. McMaster, Lieutenant Colonel. Never was man better fitted for office than the heroic and chivalrous McMaster. I don not overrate his powers in thus describing him. Suffice it to say, time will prove. Julius Mills was elected Major. A man in every way worthy of the office, being an excellent officer and high toned gentleman. Our Regiment thus organized, we now received orders to move to Charleston, which we did after a stay of two weeks at Camp Hampton.
1 John Hugh Means - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Hugh_Means
2 Second Battle of Bull Run - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_Battle_of_Bull_Run
