I could write a book on the Decline and Fall of the Petticoat, beginning with the billowy white muslin variety, and working up to the present slinky messaline affair.
The Chinaman seemed to think we were lost, and chattered in pidgin English concerning the abundance of " litty stick" (chaparral), while the Indian silently scanned the billowy ridges and gulches for openings.
He gathered a few dry sticks, crushed the lovely garment into a loose billowy heap, threw the gloves, fan, and shoes on the top, then struck a light and ruthlessly set fire to the whole.