The "Welcome Home" to the L. I. Blues.
--Desiring to testify their appreciation of the services of a gallant company, as well as their respect for the officers and men individually, the honorary members of the Light Infantry Blues made suitable preparations yesterday to carry their wishes into effect.
The invitation having been extended to the company at their camp, near the reservoir, they marched into the city in the morning, with the Armory Band, passed through Capitol Square, saluted the
Washington Monument, and paid their respects to the
Governor; after which they received the honorary members and proceeded with them to the hall on 13th street, where the entertainment awaited them.
Lieut. Fred. Carter, who was in command of the company, having arranged his men around the well-spread tables, ordered a charge upon the ‘"enemy"’ in the corner, which happened to be capacious bowls of egg-nogg and apple toddy, and we need not say that the order was executed in a spirited fashion.
This over, the company was cordially welcomed to the festive board by
Col. G. W. Munford, the oldest ex-Captain present, in a speech replete with retrospective allusions and patriotic sentiment.
This was followed by ‘ "Auld Lang Syne"’ and ‘"Dixie,"’ by the band, and then ample justice was done, to the substantial repast.
It was altogether a pleasant affair; and nothing would have been more gratifying to the young Blues now enlisted in their country's service than such a mark of attachment bestowed by the gray-headed veterans who shouldered the musket in years gone by. Much credit is due to
Mr. John D. Smith, one of the honorary members, for his active efforts on the occasion, and to
Charley Hunt, of ‘"Our
House,"’ who prepared the dinner.
May the next ‘"welcome home"’ be as pleasant, and may all be there to enjoy it.
