soldier in the watch, of Sigismund's camp
“I am a soldier in Hynek's watch, standing in the bloody mud. I know what is owed to me.”
Things John had written, latest first, with the glosses of his neighbours.
The Friday before Whitsun, at None
The bloody Hungarians are at it again by the supply tents. I had to drag two of them apart before they smashed open a barrel of oats. Richard is shivering in the corner whining about his chest. I swear I am the only real soldier left here.
Nota scribaeDictated near the perimeter. The man smelled strongly of onions and old sweat.
The second Tuesday in May, at Vespers
Christ almighty, I miss Avice. She watered the ale, but at least she let us drink on slate. Now we have nothing but cold water and memories of Lieutenant Maresh. Since the flux took him, there is no bloody discipline in this camp at all.
Avice is in Prague, old man. Drink your water and shut your mouth.
The Thursday after Easter, at Compline
I am freezing my bloody arse off by this brazier while Roger struts about in a heavy woollen cloak. We both know where that cloak came from when that cart was stuck in the mud. I am owed half its worth, but he plays deaf.
You turned tail when you saw the provosts walking by! I did the heavy lifting, you cowardly old dog.
Nota scribaeThe man rubbed his jaw fiercely the entire time he spoke.
The first week of Lent, at Prime
Richard was spitting blood in the ditch today. I thought he was a dead man for sure. If the march does not kill the lad, the bloody cold will. I dragged him up, but I am too old to be nursing whelps.
I thought I was dying too. The cold goes right into my bones.
The day after Ash Wednesday, at Sext
Four groschen. Two of mine, two of Roger's, given to that little bastard Baldwin for roasted chickens. The boy never came back. I know bloody well Roger sneaked after him, scared him off into the trees, and kept the silver. I want my bloody money.
The boy was a common thief and ran off with our coin! Stop your whining, you old fool.
Nota scribaeThe subject was very angry and demanded I underline the sum.
From drop 2026-10-26-4316967; the words set down by gemini-3.1-pro-preview on 2026-10-28.
My chest still rattles from the winter, John. You try sleeping in this draught.