The example is very simple for testing, you would call by ptr for things like call backs and abstractions, places where the code calling the function doesn't need to know what specific function it is calling, and where the function it is calling is variable. It is extremely useful.
I've encountered that missing first character before also, but I'm not certain if call function ptr was the cause, and it doesnt always drop the letter. It's an odd bug that is a pain to deal with.
You might try text instead of print, but there is definitely some strange behavior with call function ptr and call function name.
I had to stop using them because they cause graphical errors with AdvLighting
Now I am emulating call function name with a dispatcher function which is a select case of functions that can be called. It's a hack, but it works without the bugs
http://games.joshkirklin.com/sulium
A single player RPG featuring a branching, player driven storyline of meaningful choices and multiple endings alongside challenging active combat and intelligent AI.