Jasper County Democrat, Volume 2, Number 28, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 21 October 1899 — A MANILA LETTER. [ARTICLE]

A MANILA LETTER.

Joe Hofdemui, under date 6f Sept 1, writes from Manila, P. 1., to his sister Rose, of this place, and we are permitted to copy a portion of the letter: “Dear Sister: Your surely most think that I have given up writing home for good, but as I have the opportunity I will write a few tinea. You will probably be surprised to learn that I have been discharged and re-enlisted again, but such is the case. I was discharged Aug. 16, and re-enlisted next day in the rough riders or the 11th U. S. V. Cavalry for two years. I suppose you understand that I enlisted in the 14th Inst only for the war with Spain. I was promised to be made a Sergeant (one notch higher) if I would re-enlist in the “L” Co., 14th Inst, but I chose the cavalry, thinking I would see more active service. I think I will get my fill of it, as great things are expected of the rough riders. The tittle interest yon take in this insurrection with the Philippines, surprises me. It seems to concern those at home very little that we are fighting nearly every day. Perhaps yon are not aware of the feet that 500 American soldiers hare been killed since Feb. sth. Twenty men have been killed in the 14th Inst. and about forty wounded, two have been killed in “L” Co., and five wounded. Both of the men killed in “L” Co., were killed within ten feet of me, on June 13th, just 20 miles south of Manila. I have become so used to having ballets striking the ground all about me or whizzing by my ears, that I don’t mind it any more. There are about 25,000 soldiers here and it will require four times that many to whip the negroes. Everything is rushing in Manila. The stores, hotels, restaurants and saloons are doing a great business. A small glass of beer costs 10 cents. Meeds cost 50 cents and no good meal at that. Eggs are 30 cents per dozen.”