MON LIVRE

Old Mate

February 1st, 1876

I can hardly believe I’m here. The camp is nothing like home. It’s so vast, stretching on as far as the eye can see, with row upon row of tents and barracks lined up like soldiers themselves. Everything’s new, from the scent of the fresh-cut timber used to build the bunks to the crisp uniforms we were handed today, stiff and a little too big, but they’ll do.

The place is crawling with men—some of them so much bigger and stronger than I am. I watched them all as they went about the day, their arms thick with muscle, their backs straight and confident. It makes me feel small, to be honest. I’ve always thought myself sturdy, but these men look like they were born for war, and here I am, a farm boy stepping into their world. My heart pounds with both excitement and fear, the unknown weighing heavily on me, but I’m ready to give it my all.

In the beginning, I was lost, just trying to keep up with the instructions flying at us. They don’t waste any time here. As soon as we arrived, they lined us up, inspected our weight and height, measured our arms and legs—every single thing about us written down. They even inspected our hands, saying calloused hands show a man who’s ready to work hard. I guess I passed that part without any trouble; years on the farm will do that for you.

After that, they showed us to the barracks, and a surprise was waiting for me—Pierre! Can you believe it? My old friend, Pierre from back home, is here, and by some miracle, we ended up in the same room. Seeing a familiar face among all these strangers was like finding a light in the dark. He’s the same old Pierre, grinning and laughing, his spirit unbroken despite the intimidating atmosphere here. As soon as he saw me, he clapped me on the back, saying, “Looks like we’re in for the adventure of our lives, eh?”

Pierre’s presence makes everything seem a little less daunting. I don’t feel so alone with him around, and we’ve already been swapping stories about the farm, the old days, and home. Tonight, as we settled into our bunks, we talked in low whispers about what lies ahead. Pierre confessed he’s scared too, but he’s determined, and that gives me strength.

They told us to rest up well because tomorrow, we’ll start training at dawn. I don’t think I’ll get much sleep; my mind is buzzing with everything I’ve seen and heard. It’s a strange, new world, but there’s a thrill to it. For the first time, I feel like I’m part of something bigger, something beyond the boundaries of my family farm.

So here I am, a bit terrified, a bit thrilled, and very much out of place, but I’m ready to work hard, to fight for what matters to me. I know my family’s depending on me, and I won’t let them down. With Pierre by my side, I think I can handle whatever comes next.

I smiled as I read his entry, a warm glow of pride filling me. Here he was, stepping into an entirely new life with courage and hope, a mix of fear and determination in his words that made my heart ache a little.

It made me so happy to know that he wasn’t alone, that he had Pierre by his side. I imagine them, these two young men thrown into the intensity of army life, leaning on each other as they faced it all head-on. I could almost picture Pierre, cracking jokes, lifting Marchel’s spirits with a grin and a pat on the back. The thought gave me such comfort, knowing Marchel had a friend who would be there when things got tough.

As I lay on my bed, my thoughts wandered, imagining him waking up at the break of dawn, putting on his stiff, new uniform, and setting out with Pierre to face whatever the day would bring. I felt a strange swell of pride, knowing he was doing this for his family, giving up his comfort, his home, and even his future in some ways, just to make sure they were cared for.

Dear Marchel,

I can’t tell you how proud I am of you. To read that you’re facing all of this with such bravery… it makes me feel so connected to you, like I’m right there beside you, cheering you on. And I’m so happy you have Pierre with you. He sounds like the perfect companion, someone who can lift your spirits when things feel overwhelming. I hope you both find strength in each other as you face these challenges together.

I know this must be so hard, and a bit scary too, but you’re doing something incredible. Not everyone could leave behind everything they love to serve and protect. It takes a special kind of courage, Marchel, and I’m so proud to know even a part of your journey.

I hope tomorrow brings you moments of happiness, even if just small ones, and that you know there’s someone, far across time, who’s hoping you find every success you deserve.

Take care, Marchel, and give my regards to Pierre.

Your friend

I closed my journal, my heart feeling both light and heavy at once. In some strange, almost magical way, it felt like I was living alongside him, sharing in his triumphs, his fears, and his hopes. I wanted nothing more than for him to find happiness in this new life, to feel fulfilled and to come back safe to the family he cherished so dearly.

AN: Hey, Thank you for reading. If you find any mistakes please do let me know. Comment your thoughts.