From Headquarters: Odd Tales Picked up in the Volunteer Service

by James A. (James Albert) Frye

"From Headquarters: Odd Tales Picked up in the Volunteer Service" by James A. Frye is a collection of anecdotal stories written in the late 19th century. This book captures the lighter and more whimsical aspects of the volunteer military experience, drawing on the author's time in service. It aims to present the camaraderie, quirks, and unique experiences of soldiers, rather than provide a strict historical account. The opening of the collection introduces readers to the premise of the stories, emphasizing that these are meant to be light and humorous rather than historically accurate depictions of military life. Frye provides a preface that reflects on the changing perceptions of the volunteer service and defends the honor of those who serve, indicating that the tales to follow will be entertaining and perhaps absurd, focusing on the quirks and humanity of the military experience. The first story, "The Pluck of Captain Pender, C.S.N.," begins to unfold within a vivid description of a unique gathering place for soldiers, The Battery, setting the tone for the collection as one that celebrates the unique characters and experiences of military life with warmth and humor.