But the feeling was gone now.

He had liked many of the Mexicans and many of the Mexican traits, but he had felt with increasing force that he could never reach out his hand and touch anything solid.
He thought of volcanic beings on a volcanic soil.
The throb of a drum came from the street below, and presently the shrill sound of fifes was mingled with the steady beat.

Ned stood up and pressed his head as far forward as the bars of the window would let him.
"Soldiers, a regiment, I think," he said.

"Ah, I can see them now! What brilliant uniforms their officers wear!" Austin also looked out.
"Yes," he said.

"They know how to dress for effect.