“We have it here,” Hughes said. “A man has to be very imprudent not to keep well in our climate, sir. All we want now is a little stimulus of business prosperity, and the railroad is sure to bring us that. Then San Diego will be the best place on the coast for a residence.”
The loud report of a cannon, close by, made Darrell jump and look around quickly, not knowing what that explosion could mean.
“That is our visiting card to the people of San Diego, to announce our coming,” said the captain, laughingly. “I am sorry it startled you.”
“That is nothing. I didn't know I had nerves. I believe that is what women call it. I was not expecting such a military salute,” Darrell said.
“O yes, we always give it. The San Diego people are very military. At least, I should say the settlers on Señor Alamar's rancho are, as I hear they practice rifle shooting there all the time,” the captain said, looking at Mathews and Gasbang.
“That is a shot at us,” Gasbang answered, laughing.
“But it is a blank cartridge, meant not to hurt,” the captain replied.
“The rifle practice is in dark nights,” said a young Spaniard, who had been listening at what was said by the others.
“Or in the daytime, if the cattle deserve it,” Mathews said.
“That is very creditable and brave, to shoot tame cows,” the Spaniard rejoined.