June 19, 1248

Dear Journal,

       Today we leave for Acre in Syria. I don’t know what to think. I’m scared but excited to finally get out on the road for a while. Glad to meet new people. Maybe along the way I’ll even meet a special lady. But a man can only hope. I am wishing upon a star that I will, though. But who would ever like a man like me? A pig, maybe. Or better yet a cow.

                      -Pepin Williams

June 18, 1248

Dear Journal,

       Today my best friend died.  Elizabeth was her name. I wasn’t home to be at the funeral, but we had our own at the camp.  She died from being hit by an out-of-control horse. I don’t know what to do at this point. It just makes me sad to think about it. It’s like Father Christmas forgot me or something,. But it’s OK. Petrus will keep my spirits up. Hopefully.

                             -Pepin Williams

June 17, 1248

Dear Journal,

         Today we started battle.  We did a lot better than I expected. We just got out there and CHARGED! We killed probably 100 people! I tried my bow and arrow and did not succeed at all. It bounced off a rock, went straight up, and almost hit one of our soldiers in the head! But I dove and caught it. I sure do hope that those Muslims go down. We deserve to win! King Louis seems to be a pretty good general but you never know. I hope that we win. Wish me luck!

                      -Pepin Williams

June 16, 1248

 Dear Journal,
            Today we start battle. Am I ready? Not at all. We barely trained. I'm almost certain we will be defeated. But attitude is key. So I really need someone to lift my spirits. But how could I? I AM  IN   WAR. Nobody is happy in war. Unless of course it's over. And they won. But anyways, Today June 16, 1248, I will go out into the field and fight. I don't think I really even know how to use a bow and arrow. Maybe I could use a spear. No. That's lame. I'll use a sword. I definitely know how to use one of those. But what if I lose it? Ugh... I need a better attitude. But, You know I'll try.
                                                             -Pepin Williams