I didn't know what I was saying before.
Here, shake hands, and God bless you, boy! I don't suppose I shall hurt.

Run for it at once, and I'll cover your retreat." Mark sprang up, placed one foot on the rocks, shook hands with the major, and in his excitement and dread, as another yell rang out much nearer, gathered himself up to spring clear of the rough scoria that lay about, and then turned sharply round and leaped back in his place.
"What now ?" cried the major sharply.
"Who's to reload if I go ?" said Mark hoarsely; and he looked very white.
"I can, boy.

Quick! there's no time to lose." Mark hesitated for a few moments.

On the one side seemed to be safety; on the other, perhaps death from a set of spear-armed savages.

Then he ground his teeth, and stood fast.
"Well, why don't you go ?" "I won't be such a coward," cried Mark in a hoarse whisper.
"It is no cowardice to retreat," cried the major, "when your superior officer gives the word." "You're not my superior officer," said Mark between his teeth.