The Hero W. Somerset Maugham Fiction Classics Historical Psychological

We were sent to take an unoccupied hill. Our maxim was that a hill is always unoccupied unless the enemy are actually firing from it. Of course the place was chock full of Boers; they waited till we had come within easy range for a toy-pistol and then fired murderously. We did all we could. We tried to storm the place but we hadnt a chance. Men tumbled down like nine-pins. Ive never seen anything like it. The order was given to fire and there was nothing to fire at but the naked rocks. We had to retire -- we couldnt do anything else; and presently I found that poor Larcher had been wounded. Well I thought he couldnt be left where he was so I went back for him. I asked him if he could move. No he said I think Im hurt in the leg. I knelt down and bandaged him up as well as I could. He was simply bleeding like a pig; and meanwhile brother Boer potted at us for all he was worth. How dyou feel? I asked. Bit dicky; but comfortable. I didnt funk it did I? No of course not you juggins! I said. Can you walk dyou think? Ill try. I lifted him up and put my arm round him and we got along for a bit; then he became awfully white and groaned I do feel so bad Parsons and then he fainted. So I had to carry him; and we went a bit farther and then--and then I was hit in the arm. I say I cant carry you now I said; for Gods sake buck up. He opened his eyes and I prevented him from falling. I think I can stand he said and as he spoke a bullet got him in the neck and his blood splashed over my face. He gave a gasp and died.