They sat inside the laagered wagons with three campfires sending flames and smoke toward the star-bright sky. Outside the laager, the oxen stood within a thornbush barrier, with bored sentries marching on slow boots while outer pickets waited with ready rifles.
Andrew placed another log on the fire and watched as a ribbon of sparks spiralled upward. He smiled across at Elaine, who held a mug in both hands while sitting on a handy boulder. Mariana pushed back her broad-brimmed hat and returned Andrew’s smile.
“This is the best part of the day,” Andrew said. “When we’ve done the day’s work, and we can relax for a little while.” He nodded beyond the laager. “Except for the sentries, but that’s part of the soldier’s bargain.”
That was my father’s phrase. I hope I am not copying him.
That w
