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Harte, Bret, 1836-1902

"The Crusade of the Excelsior"

As
his eye fell on the page of manuscript Hurlstone had just cast down, a
slight shadow crossed his beneficent expanse of forehead, and deepened
in his soft dark eyes; but the next moment it was chased away by his
quick recurring smile. Even thus transient and superficial was his
feeling, thought Hurlstone.
"I have some news for you," said Perkins affably, "which may alter your
decision about returning. My friends ashore," he continued, "judging
from the ingenuous specimen which has just visited me, are more
remarkable for their temporary zeal and spasmodic devotion than for
prudent reserve or lasting discretion. They have submitted a list to me
of those whom they consider dangerous to Mexican liberty, and whom they
are desirous of hanging. I regret to say that the list is illogical, and
the request inopportune. Our friend Mr. Banks is put down as an ally
of the Government and an objectionable business rival of that eminent
patriot and well-known drover, Senor Martinez, who just called upon me.
Mr. Crosby's humor is considered subversive of a proper respect for all
patriotism; but I cannot understand why they have added YOUR name as
especially 'dangerous.


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