Des Arc semi-weekly citizen., 1861-05-10
LETTER FROM CAMP RECTOR.
CAMP RECTOR, MoUND CITY, ARK, : } MILES ABOVE MEMPHIS,
 MAY Ath. 1861.

 the good steamer A. ". Quarter for this place. On the wharf were collected the relations and friends of the soldiers to bid them farewell, and bid them God speed in their glorious mission. Many stout hearts were melted into tears, in be- ing compelled by the action of our hanga- roo President to rend every dear lie of home and kindred; but still they were proud and happy, because permitted to rally around the flag of the Southern Con federacy, and defend our household gods from the poluting touch of Northern fla natics. But after we left the sad scenes presented to our view at Des Arc, and glided swiftly down our beautiful river, change of scene brought on Il correspond ing change of feelings and the wonted good humor of our boys returned. As we passed the many farm houses which skir the banks of our lovely little stream: the air was rent with huzzas for our glori- ous cause, which was answered with in terest from the shore.
 We arrived at Clarendon about4 o'clock and found a large crowd collected on the bank, who greeted us with hearty cheers as the boat rounded to. We marched over their beautiful little town, and were pres- ent at the reception of very neat flag by the Harris Guards, of Monroe county. Eloquent speeches were delivered on the occasion, and one especially appropriate by the beautiful young lady who present. ed the flag. The Harris Guards are named in honor of Col. J. T. Harris, of Monroe county. They are a fine looking body of men, and number about 80. Our company took supper at the hotel, and then we separated, each man seeking pleasure after his own fashion till we were called together at l2 o'clock to leave. We were well received by the citizens of Clarendon and their kindness towards us were ap- preciated and will be duly returned if we ever come back from the wars.
 At 12 o'clock we left, accompanied by the Harris Guards. On Wednesday night we reacaed- shae Mississippi river, and as we left our pretty little stream, cheeer after cheer rent the air, mingled with the hope that we would all be able to look upon its swift rolling waters once again.
 :. We met the steamer Victoria at Rose dale, Mississippi, and embarked on her for Mound City, where we arrived safe and sound on Thursday night, at 9 o'clock. The Victoria brought us up free of charge. This act of patriotism and generosity will long be remembered by every one of our company. They showed us many kind- nasses and provided for us in the very best style.
 On Friday we went into regular mili- ary discipline, performing all the duties 3f camp life. We drill twice day, three hours each time; walk post, and cook our onn victuaIs You can appreciate the beauties of our culinary department when tell you there is but two or three in our who know the least about cook ng. besides, we are living on c0rnbread md bacon, with little cohce 10 wash it town.
 We have good string band ant some cry fine singers and so we get excellent music when off duty. Dixie" and Way down in Cairo" are the favorite ! nnes here. They sing Cairo because ome think that is our destination. We avn't any place to dance, so we are ompelled to forego that pleasure.
 Six men occupy one small tent with on-oommissioned officer in each one.- The ground in the tent is covered with raw and we lay pair of blankets on nat and covar with our other blankets ach man having pair. The nights are uite cool, so as yet we are quite comfort ble, but fear we will suffer from heat T the summer if we stay in this section