Juan and Juanita

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1888. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER IV. ADIOS, SHANECO! ADrOS TODOS! When the strain of the day's alarms and exertions was over, and succeeded by darkness, stillness, and a temporary safety, poor little Nita got quite hysterical, and sobbed herself to sleep on Juan's shoulder. She refused to eat anything, and was the weariest, most footsore, entirely exhausted child that can be imagined; and but for the protecting arm that encircled her, the confidence that Juan's cleverness and daring had inspired, and her belief that they were to stay where they were for some time, she would have been utterly miserable. As it was, Juan had to scold her a little for being so sure that they would never see their mother again, and certain that they would eventually be recaptured. He told her that she must expect to undergo a great deal of hardship; that she must be brave; that he had a capital idea that would put the Indians off the scent; and, finally, that she must go to sleep. He made a hearty meal from the wallet, and threw down something now and then to Amigo who had stretched himself out at the foot of the tree, and deserved to feast after his admirable conduct that day. A sensible dog, that; not once did he bark after the Indians appeared, and only gave one growl in the thicket. I hushed him up; but I thought he would break out again. I believe he knows as much as I do about it, was Juan's last thought before he, too, dropped off to sleep. Amigo's whines awakened him at daylight, indeed, before, and he was* not sorry; for, after the fatigue he had undergone the previous day, he would certainly have slept late, -- a dangerous indulgence under the circumstances. He roused Nita, who awoke greatly refreshed and much more cheerful. She was quite ready for breakfast now, and all the party ate wi...