With the character for strict attention to discipline,
which has been ascribed to Captain Headley, it will be
easily understood that every man on duty was expected to
be as correct in the execution of its details, as though
he had been at the Head Quarters of his regiment, or at
the Seat of Government itself. The utmost regard to dress,
and to the efficiency of arms was moreover enjoined, and
so far did their commander feel indisposed to trust the
inspection of them to the non-commissioned officer of
the guard, that, although there were in the Fort, but
two regimental officers besides himself, he had, from
the moment of assuming the command, required them
alternately to perform the necessary duties; superintending
the relief of guards, and parading all men off duty and
out of hospital, in full dress, at least once in the
twenty-four hours.

At the outset, this had been a source of much discontent
with the men, who conceiving that, in that remote region,
the rigor of the service might be dispensed with, almost
openly expressed their desire that there might be sent
to command them, some officer less severe in his exactions.
This had been reported to Captain Headley by his senior
subaltern, from whose manner, while communicating the
information, it was apparent that he did not wholly
disapprove of a remonstrance against measures which
involved the sacrifice of his own comfort. His superior
was not slow to remark this, he, however, quietly observed
that he was not, at his years, and in his responsible
position, to be told the duty required to be performed