The Deserter

The Deserter

By

4
(2 Reviews)
The Deserter by Charles King

Published:

1887

Pages:

0

Downloads:

1,496

Share This

The Deserter

By

4
(2 Reviews)
A popular army novel.

Book Excerpt

bark in readiness to join the rest of the regiment.

All day long again the wagon-train twists and wriggles through an ashen section of Les Mauvaises Terres. It is a tedious, trying march for Hull's little command of troopers,--all that is now left to guard the train. The captain is constantly out on the exposed flank, eagerly scanning the rough country to the south, and expectant any moment of an attack from that direction. He and his men, as well as the horses, mules, and teamsters, are fairly tired out when at nightfall they park the wagons in a big semicircle, with the broad river forming a shining chord to the arc of white canvas. All the live-stock are safely herded within the enclosure; a few reliable soldiers are posted well out to the south and east, to guard against surprise, and the veteran Sergeant Clancy is put in command of the sentries. The captain gives strict injunctions as to the importance of these duties; for he is far from easy in his mind over the situation. The Riflers, he knows,

More books by Charles King

(view all)

Readers reviews

5
4
3
2
1
4.0
Average from 2 Reviews
4
Write Review
Pubbed in 1890, the book has a remarkably modern plot organization. Contains the usual flaws of the time: overly-perfect hero and heroine, and coincidences are the worst. Not quite as sentimental as some.

Takes place during the late Indian wars but contains only one brief battle. All other action takes place in a social setting within the garrison. Pretty decent picture of the peacetime life of Army officers.

I intend to look at King's other titles.
Profile picture for user tgatzajr
donnie
4
mystery romance with a lot of military language and u.s. military historical protocol. A good cozy read