Page 12 - Crossing the Deadline

Chapter Fourteen

As we walk away, August looks back over his shoulder.
“Pleasant fellow,” he says. “Stephen, if you wait until you’re
eighteen, the war will be over.”

Large wooden gates open to reveal a city within the city
bustling with activity. Immediately off to the left of the
entrance, a man is yelling. “You’re going to be shot five times
before you can get your powder in the barrel.” He snatches

the musket from a soldier and continues his rant. “You
should be able to fire three rounds per minute. Whoever
loads faster, you or Johnny Reb, determines who will live.
Watch the steps as I go through them again.”

The instructor reaches into a black container strapped
to his waist and pulls out an object the size of his thumb.
“Retrieve cartridge from box and tear the paper with
your teeth. Pour the powder and minié ball in.” He

demonstrates.
“Ram the powder and ball into the barrel, and replace
the ramrod.”
He reaches into another container. “Prime the weapon

with a percussion cap, and you’re now ready to cock, aim,
and fire.”
Beyond the men learning to shoot, in a field large enough
for all of Centerville to fit in, men ride horses. The riders all

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