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this town was a violent place, where shootings were plentiful. |
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Abby did not know the cause of the brutality in the Los Angeles of the future, although people seemed fascinated by watching even fictional versions on television. Here the disturbances resulted from clashes between gold-seekers from the East and their Mexican counterparts. To avoid having to deal with the violence, or even think much about it, most respectable families settled some distance from town. Others took precautions for safety. |
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The voyagers made their farewells, assuring one another they would meet often. |
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Hunwet approached Abby. A wry lift to his full lips underscored the prominence of his cheekbones and breadth of his nose. He looked too kind to be the "bear" of his Indian name. "We are to part ways now, Abby," he said. |
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She nodded, feeling a lump as bitter as mesquite-flour cake, to which Hunwet had introduced her in the desert, rise in her throat. "I'll miss you," she managed. She was separating from many people important to her these days. |
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"We have never spoken of your disappearance, but I know it was the magic." |
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Abby nodded and looked down, afraid she would cry. "Where will you go now?" |
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"To my people first. I must make certain they have water. And then I will find a new journey as guide to other people, although I do not believe any will be as fine as you." |
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Impulsively Abby hugged the Indian. "Thank |
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