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S. D. Barnes to Horace Kephart, May 15, 1898

  • wcu_kephart-2210.jpg
  • In this letter of May 15, 1898, S. D. Barnes writes Horace Kephart addressing him as Friend Kep. Barnes makes it known that he is qualified and would like to be on the list as a sharpshooter for the Spanish-American War even though he cannot be present in Saint Louis to practice in the drills.
  • Bald Knob, Ark. May 15, 1898 Friend Kep:- I reckon I can make a possible [ten] on Spaniards at 200 yds., and I know I can march hard, live on crawfish, and mix up biscuit in the flour sack. if there is any chance for me, I want to go with you all. Have been too long in the swamps to pass a strict examination; but this may not be insisted upon in the ease of sharpshooters. think that I could stand more “Cuba” than some of the unseasoned athletes from the high and dry North. as I have a living to make, I could not come to St. Louis to drill, but I would like to be on the list and could stand in readiness to go when needed. is there a chance for me? yours, S. J. Barnes