Alas! his first impression was correct.
The breeze blew directly from the west--directly from the locusts.

He could perceive the effluvium borne from the hateful insects: there was no longer cause to doubt.
Groaning in spirit, Von Bloom returned to his house.

He had no longer any hope of escaping the terrible visitation.
His first directions were to collect all the loose pieces of linen or clothing in the house, and pack them within the family chests.

What! would the locusts be likely to eat them?
Indeed, yes--for these voracious creatures are not fastidious.

No particular vegetable seems to be chosen by them.