In the Smoke of War; A Story of Civil Strife (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1895. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER VIII "U I DO LIVE" The rumour of the coming of the great Parliamentary army, long ago in every mouth, then mistrusted because the time went by, then again the common talk, became at last too full and particular to leave room for doubt. The General Fairfax was yesterday at Blandford, a thoroughly well authenticated place, at times visited by some adventurous villager. The Lord Goring was to-day withdrawing from before Taunton and marching towards the level country hard by Langport where the three rivers meet. Ha A terrible pretty spot, sure enough, wi' a plenty o' grass for the ho'ses--where he could bide, look-y-zee, safe an' sound, if 'twere till doomsday. Even in this time of fear, a certain pride in the strength of a position so near home was only natural. At the smithy it was not the war they dreaded so much as the ravages of the Lord Goring's troops. For if they could rob and terrify folk out o' their lives when they were miles away, what would they not do when they were closehandy like? The country-side was so filled with alarm, that people who had little to lose left their homes in search of safety; and parties of Clubmen were mustering everywhere for the protection of their property. Everybody knew that the moment was drawing terribly near. But the General Fairfax Ha He could never come that way wi' Load and Ivelchester held fast, and every other bridge to Evill-town eitherways burnt or beat to buttons. More than a week had elapsed since Cicely's visit to her father; and although her mind was made up, she could not bring her heart to promise young Zachary. Not that her purpose wavered. There was no other way. But she put off the evil day, ever looming before her dark and inevitable as death. She dared not think about it; and yet she kep...