[The Rifle Rangers by Captain Mayne Reid]@TWC D-Link bookThe Rifle Rangers CHAPTER EIGHT 4/6
Die soon enough in this infernal nest of centipedes without being shot in the chaparral! I wish the chaparral was--!" and again the major's unmentionable words came pouring forth in a volley. I saw that it was useless to interrupt him until the first burst was over.
From his frequent anathemas on the "bushes" and the "chaparral", I could gather that the service I was called upon to perform lay at some distance from the camp; but beyond this I could learn nothing, until the major had sworn himself into a degree of composure, which after some minutes he accomplished.
I then re-stated the object of my visit. "We're going into the country for mules," replied the major.
"Mules, indeed! Heaven knows there isn't a mule within ten miles, unless with a yellow-hided Mexican on his back, and such mules we don't want.
The volunteers--curse them!--have scared everything to the mountains: not a stick of celery nor an onion to be had at any price." "How long do you think we may be gone ?" I inquired. "Long? Only a day.
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