Pani! JildiA pani-wallah – water-carrier – scurried up, n***d except for a loincloth. He handed Jack a goatskin bag. “Pani, sahib,” he said, then vanished as an Afghan shell exploded at his feet. Pieces of the man scattered in the air, covering Jack with blood and scorched flesh.
pani-wallah – PaniWiping his face clean, Jack handed the goatskin to his gunners. “Cool the barrel,” he said. “And maybe have a drink.” That was the first water he had seen since early morning, and the men were parched and hungry.
Another Afghan shell exploded among the Horse Artillery, and Major Blackwood fell from his horse, holding his leg. He withdrew to the rear, losing a lot of blood.
“He’ll be back,” a gunner said. “He’s made of tough stuff, the major!”
“Look!” Jack pointed to the centre of the Afghan l
