HOME seems very cozy and attractive after the mountains of snow and
ice we crossed and re-crossed on our little trip to Helena. The bitter
cold of those canons will long be remembered. But it was a delightful
change from the monotonous life in this out-of-the-way garrison, even
if we did almost freeze on the road, and it was more than pleasant to
be with old friends again.
The ball at the hall Friday evening was most enjoyable, and it was
simply enchanting to dance once more to the perfect music of the dear
old orchestra. And the young people in Helena are showing their
appreciation of the good music by dancing themselves positively thin
this winter. The band leader brought from New Orleans the Creole music
that was so popular there, and at the ball we danced Les Varietes four
times; the last was at the request of Lieutenant Joyce, with whom I
always danced it in the South. It is thoroughly French, bringing in
the waltz, polka, schottische, mazurka, and redowa. Some of those
Creole girls were the personification of grace in that dance.
We knew of the ball before leaving home, and went prepared for it, but
had not heard one word about the bal masque to be given by "The Army
Social Club" at Mrs. Gordon's Tuesday evening. We did not have one
thing with us to assist in the make-up of a fancy dress; nevertheless
we decided to attend it.
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