The True Light Fairfield Mar 17 1899

From Manila

Manila P I Jan 20 1899

Dear Father and Mother:

  As it is raining, or rather pouring down, I will sit still long enough to write a letter or two.  I got several letters from friends at home and expect more in about three days, for the “City of Peking” is due here they 23^rd, with three weeks mail for us and perhaps our Christmas boxes.

  It seems funny to have you tell about it being cold at home, for it is very warm here.  Every one thinks and hopes that we will not have much longer to serve, for we are told that as soon as those 7 or 8 Regiments of regulars get here we will be sent home.  I think in about two months we will be on the move.

  Nothing has happened since I wrote last.  I forgot to tell you to look out for that powder and Mauser shells, etc.  They are some I got at the old fort.  The powder came off the Reina Christina, and that tag is our registration tag.  My number was 14.  We wore them around our neck in battle and outpost.

  I intend to bring a monkey home when I come, as they are thick here and such cute and comical little things.

  You can put those pictures in M. L. Jones window, but be careful not to lose them.  I bought a “Quad” camera last week and will have some pictures of myself taken and send you some as soon as possible.

  Yesterday Brig. Gen. Hale drilled the regiment in extended order, advance and rear guard, skirmishing etc., and I acted as his trumpeter and had a fine time.  He would give the order in a low tone and would give it on my bugle, and I never forgot a call or made a mistake.  He complimented me highly.  I am our major’s (Harry B Mulfor) bugler now.  Well I must close for this time.

Jan 27, 1899

  We got mail yesterday.  I got three letters from you.

  We are all in good health and in pretty good spirits, for we expect to get home within two years any way.  We have orders that we will be the 5^th regiment to be released by the regulars, and they are due here in three weeks.

  The famous Lieut. Hobson, U S N, will arrive here day after tomorrow and I am going down to see him.

  I suppose Wilber has got home and is having a good time in general.  I will have to disappoint you on the box for Wilber had been in the hospital for about two months and I did not get to see him at all, and he left so suddenly that I did not have time to get anything.  I did not know he was going until about 8 o’clock one night and I was on duty but got excused, changed my clothes, packed his box, but as he was feeling so bad did not feel like walking around so decided I would let things go until I got home.  I am gathering souvenirs every day.

  We have fine food now as the government is issuing fine “grub” and lots of it and a good variety.

  We have hired three Chinese cooks for $75 a month, and there are 83 men in the company we pay $1 each.  They cook to perfection.

  As I can’t think of anything more to interest you, will close with love to all.

Your soldier son

Walter G Tingley.