Every water-well was a life-saver. Even after a few steps, they would rush over and if they had missed a fresh bucket would gulp thirstily from the trough along with the mules and horses.

• 每一个井台都成了他们的救星，不管刚拉了几步，见井就奔过去； 赶不上新汲的水，便和驴马们同在水槽里灌一大气。