ching memories of their foot-slogging as in the infantry returned in full force many a man in Company A Saturday afternoon, when Major Bernard A. Merriam set out to disprove what he said as a "rumor that I'm all right on a bicycle but not much on a hike." He took a company out on an extended stroll.

Some of the boys believed that the talking trip along the Charles River revered at least 25 miles. It was really considerable distance beyond Soldiers held, but all made it without calling for stretcher. Most of the journey was accomplished at route step, which meant at the men could exchange comments is the beauties of nature observed along the way.

Several of the girls who happened to the rowing on the Charles in the cool afternoon sent beaming smiles glowing over the water, perhaps accounting for the vigor with which all four platoons bang "Under A Bamboo Tree," "It's A Long Way to Tipperary," and "Around Her Neck She Wore A Yellow Ribbon."

More Spectators-More Smiles

Then the men on the inland side of the column got a chance to cheer their favorites in a sulky race that seemed to be in full swing at a track which the marchers passed. Girls leaned from the grandstand and waved while the column pounded past, and several small boys rode bicycles in pursuit of the company.

"What're you doing, trying to take the Watertown Arsenal?" yelled one grinning urchin.

Wihtout further incident the hike ended with a 100-yard dash to Leverett House, Major Merriam leading the way.

* * *

A dozen men who attended a party given for them at the Hotel Preston over the weekend reported that they were received with lavish hospitality, and spent Saturday evening in developing their proficiency on the dance floor . . .

Others had a grand time at a beach party at Winthrop Beach, where they met some interesting WACS as well as girls in civilian clothes.

* * *

Romance continues to bloom among us. Cpl. John Heuman, a student in the foreign language group, formerly with the 217th Military Police at Fort Devens, has just become engaged to Miss Jean Davis of Maynard Mass.