A regiment with a complete band came to our post I was on the watch for their first rehearsal; I begged father to take me to it He and I entered the room just as the band was beginning to play the overture to Fra Diavolo. The drum solo with which it begins transfixed me, but when the trumpet solo at the opening allegro began, I screamed with delight and father had to put his hand over my mouth to keep me from disturbing the musicians. It is safe to say that a certain little boy was present every time that band played.