We passed lean pastures which were trying very hard, but in vain, to look green; yellow came out best.

The rugged peaks of the trachyte rocks presented faint outlines on the eastern horizon; at times a few patches of snow, concentrating the vague light, glittered upon the slopes of the distant mountains; certain peaks, boldly uprising, passed through the grey clouds, and reappeared above the moving mists, like breakers emerging in the heavens.
Often these chains of barren rocks made a dip towards the sea, and encroached upon the scanty pasturage: but there was always enough room to pass.

Besides, our horses instinctively chose the easiest places without ever slackening their pace.

My uncle was refused even the satisfaction of stirring up his beast with whip or voice.

He had no excuse for being impatient.