The Novels of Captain Marryat Volume 19 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1896 edition. Excerpt: ... "I thought it was the lion again," said Alexander, "but it is thunder; we are about to have a storm." "Yes, and a fierce one too," said the Major; "I am afraid that we must break up our party and retire under cover. We have some large drops of rain already." A flash of lightning now dazzled them, and was followed by another, and an instantaneous peal of thunder. "There is no mistake in this," said Swinton, "and I can tell you that we shall have it upon us in less than a minute, so I am for my wagon." "At all events it will wash these Hottentots sober," observed the Major, as they all walked away' to their separate wagons for shelter. Chapter XIV They had scarcely gained the wagons before the thunder and lightning became incessant, and so loud as to be deafening. It appeared as if they were in the very centre of the contending elements, and the wind rose and blew with terrific force, while the rain poured down as if the floodgates of heaven were indeed opened. The lightning was so vivid, that for the second that it lasted you could see the country round to the horizon almost as clear as day; the next moment all was terrific gloom accompanied by the stunning reports of the thunder, which caused every article in the wagons, and the wagons themselves, to vibrate from the concussion. A large tree, not fifty yards from the caravan, was struck by the lightning and came down with an appalling crash. The Caffres had all roused up, and had sheltered themselves under the wagons. The Hottentots had also begun to move, but had not yet recovered their senses--indeed, they were again stupefied by the clamour of the elements. The storm lasted about an hour, and then as suddenly it cleared up again; the stars again made their appearance in the sky...