Glorieta Pass by P. G. Nagle

Author:P. G. Nagle [Nagle, P. G.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Historical Fiction
ISBN: 0812540492
Publisher: Book View Cafe

Flames blazed angrily in the Confederate camp, reaching orange tongues toward the cloudy dawn. Jamie felt the heat tightening the skin on his face, though he stood well back from the bonfire. He licked dry lips and stared bitterly at the jumble of burning wagons, some still loaded with clothing, regimental records, blankets that were sorely needed but could not be moved without mules.

Martin came to stand beside him and silently handed him a strip of dried beef. Neither had slept.

“What a waste,” Jamie said.

“Better than leaving it for the Federals,” said Martin. “Don’t take it personally, Jamie. War is a business too.”

Jamie couldn’t help smiling. “How come you always know how to make me feel better?” he asked.

Martin shrugged. “Guess I always wanted a little brother,” he said softly. “Come on, it’s time to start.”

They collected their horses and went to the head of the train, where the 1st Regiment had formed to cover the advance. Sibley, recovered from his malady, was back in the saddle and had ordered the 2nd and 3rd to march at dawn, west toward the river in a feint. At the same time Pyron’s battalion had set out to take control of the ford at Valverde, north of the mesa.

No one doubted that one way or another there would be a battle. As the long serpent of wagons rumbled to life, Jamie looked forward to the fight and a chance to vent his frustration.

They’d been marching an hour when a horseman came thundering toward them. Jamie recognized Phillips, who sought out Scurry. In minutes word traveled back through the ranks; Pyron’s men had met the enemy at the ford, and more Yankees were marching from Fort Craig.

The 1st picked up a trot and soon outstripped the heavy wagons. Jamie fretted and took out his impatience on the teamsters. Nervous and excited, he checked his pistol though he knew it was loaded and ready, and wondered what Matt and Daniel were doing. From ahead came the distant boom of cannon.

“Not long now,” said Martin.

Jamie glanced at him, calmed by the quiet words. Martin smiled, and Jamie could tell that the captain knew everything he was thinking. He relaxed and grinned back, reaching up to his hat to touch Emma’s star for luck. Martin nodded and did the same. Then they turned eyes and thoughts north.

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