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When all the guests had arrived, the doors of the breakfast-room were thrown open, and the disclosure of a plentiful and rich repast regaled the senses of the company, on whom the fresh air of morning had not failed to exercise its appetizing influence. A joyous hour was passed at the breakfast-table; and in the course of another hour the sound of a bugle called together the scattered groups, some of whom were wandering in the garden in quest of bouquets, while others were strolling under the oak-trees, or seated on the terrace in contemplation of the scenery in front. This was the signal to repair to the field of action. All parties speedily collected at the house; here our host and hostess, followed by a large bevy of gallants and belles, led the way to the grounds, where a long arbor, composed of magnolia-branches, open on the north side, had been erected. Here a band of music was playing a martial air; seats were placed for the accommodation of the ladies, affording them a view of the Patgo, which was already elevated on its tall staff, sixty yards in front.
Immediately in front of the centre of the arbor was a little projection, which shaded a post, into the sides of which wooden pins had been driven for the purpose of affording a "rest" to those of the aspirants for distinction as marksmen who chose to avail themselves of such advantageous aid; though, to the credit of the hunters of Florida, it must be acknowledged that but very few of them deigned to ask the aid of a "rest," — "off-hand" shooting being the common practice amongst those whose martial tastes led them to prefer the rifle.
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==References==
* George A. McCall. ''Letters from the Frontiers'', 1868.
