It was sent to him by Sousa, director of the Marine Band, who has
been most kind and interested. The new instruments are here, so are
the two new sets of uniform--one for full dress, the other for
concerts and general wear. Both have white trimmings to correspond
with the regiment, which are so much nicer than the old red facings
that made the band look as if it had been borrowed from the artillery.
All this has been the source of much comment along the officers'
quarters and in the barracks across the parade ground, and has caused
several skirmishes between Faye and the band. It was about talked out,
however, when I came in for my share of criticism!
The post commander and Faye came over from the office one morning and
said it was their wish that I should take entire charge of the music
for services in church, that I could have an orchestra of soft-toned
instruments, and enlisted men to sing, but that all was to be under my
guidance. I must select the music, be present at all practicings, and
give my advice in any way needed. At first I thought it simply a very
unpleasant joke, but when it finally dawned upon me that those two men
were really in earnest, I was positive they must be crazy, and that I
told them. The whole proposition seemed so preposterous, so
ridiculous, so everything! I shall always believe that Bishop Brewer
suggested church music by the soldiers.
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