Humans Are Causing Climate Change - 3757 Words

Climate change is without doubt occurring around the globe. Yet, the consideration of and debating about whether humans are the cause, and if there is anything we can do about it at this point, is currently being disputed amongst scholars. The primary goals of this essay is to provide a current description of processes within climate change, and to give an insight on the relative contribution of natural and human sources, with a particular emphasis on the implications for us. There will also be an understanding of linkages between atmospheric carbon and climate change, the views on apparent disagreements related to the climate change discussion, and the thoughts on ways forward. The idea that humans are causing climate change is the position of the Academies of Science from eighty countries , plus many scientific organizations that study this area. More specifically, around 95% of active climate researcher’s actively publishing climate papers endorse the consensus position. Climate scientists have recently become progressively worried about the survival of the human race. There is a lot of evidence that virtually all climatologists, ‘are now convinced that global warming poses a clear and present danger to civilization’. Other informed journalists also share this concern. The climate crisis ‘threatens the survival of our civilization,’ said Pulitzer Prize-winner Ross Gelbspan. The continuation of global warming would seemingly create conditions all but certainShow MoreRelatedClimate Change Is Happening, Humans Are Causing It, I Think1233 Words   |  5 PagesClimate change is happening, humans are causing it, I think this is perhaps the most serious environmental issue we are facing right now. Climate change is not just the issue for a human it is also affecting the life of animals. In this recent year, it has been the major concern for some of the world leaders. The formal president of United State has put a restriction on oil drilling in the Atlantic Ocean because the oil that spills in water when drilling is harder to clean and it is affecting theRead MoreEssay on Role of Human Activities in Causing Climate Change1072 Words   |  5 PagesAs humans approach a future of uncertainty, enigmas are unraveling all around the globe. Climate change is one of the most influential concerns to humankinds, since there seems to be a dramatic change in the Earth’s climate such as noticeable increase in temperature.According to United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), climate change may be defined as the change in atmosphere that results from indirect or direct contribution to the climate by humans in which affect the modificationRead MoreWhat Role Has Human Activity Played in Causing Climate Change?678 Words   |  3 PagesThe change in global climate is the most powerful problem that currently occurs on the earth. The problems of climate change may be caused by both of human activ ities and natural events. Climate change is the changes that affect the world’s weather, including shifts in temperature, ocean level, land, and precipitation. The climate change phenomenon can affect everything in the world not only natural environment, but also human society, and the world economy. This essay aims to evaluate the role ofRead MoreClimate Change Is A Serious Problem1123 Words   |  5 PagesClimate Change is a Serious Problem to the Planet â€Å"Climate change is happening, humans are causing it, and I think it is perhaps the most serious environmental issue facing us.† This quote from Bill Nye illustrates the serious nature of climate change. Climate change is the most serious issue that is plaguing the world. Global temperatures have been increasing in recent years and it is clear that our climate is changing. Climate change is the change of temperature and weather in our environmentRead MoreClimate Change Is A Real Threat1105 Words   |  5 PagesClimate Change is a Real Threat â€Å"Climate change is happening, humans are causing it, and I think it is perhaps the most serious environmental issue facing us.† This quote from Bill Nye illustrates the serious nature of climate change. Climate change is the most serious issue that is plaguing the world. Global temperatures have been increasing in recent years and it is clear that our climate is changing. Climate change is the change of temperature of our environment. A majority of scientists suspectRead MoreClimate Change Is Our Fault922 Words   |  4 PagesClimate Change is Our Fault The truth is earth is heating up and it is partially humans fault. The simplest of human activities can alter the climates to change. Humans are not the only climate drivers. There are also natural factors (â€Å"How Much Does Human Activity Affect Climate Change?†). The earth is changing due to the climate changes . For future generations the earth may perhaps look different (Nuccitelli). Human activity is advancing global climate change rapidly. Humans are the main factorRead MoreEnvironmental Ethics Issues1048 Words   |  4 Pages Climate change is one of the biggest and controversial issues facing the world today. Climate change refers to the change in climate which can be attributed directly or not directly to human activity which alters the composition of the global atmosphere. Climate change is a problem that needs to be addressed. If climate change is not addressed, there will be an increase in higher temperatures, and with the increase in higher temperatures, the oceans will rise, and this will affect the vegetationRead MoreThe Global Warming Debate On Our World880 Words   |  4 PagesPollution is poisoning our air, destroying our world, killing our species and plants; Human activity is to blame. However, since 2012 Fox news has been reporting that global warming is fake and that it is not caused by human activity but rather by natural causes. Further, this global warming debate has been an ongoing battle between the Democratic Party and the Republican Party. In 2012 during Obamas second run for presi dency, the global warming debate went on full blast. That year Obama had announcedRead MoreClimate Change Is Caused By Humans1339 Words   |  6 PagesJohn Tatom Climate 1. Climate is the weather conditions that are happening in certain areas for a long period of time. The climate has an affect on everything that is living on this planet. Right now the Earth is experiencing climate change. Climate change is when the temperature and weather conditions of the Earth are changing. Climate change is something that has been naturally occurring on the Earth for millions of years, but right now we are experiencing the most rapid climate change the EarthRead MoreThe Effects Of Climate Change On Human Activities864 Words   |  4 PagesClimate change is a highly talked about topic. Scientist have been studying this for many and many years. There are facts that say climate change occurs from natural things like volcanic eruptions, solar activity, and orbital change. Scientist say that its caused by human activities. This is being sent to you because you need to know that climate change is happening from humans more then other things like natural processes. You have inspired me to try my hardest to get to the top and be my best because

Hamlet by William Shakespeare - 754 Words

At the beginning of Hamlet, Hamlet gets a visit from the ghost of his dead father informing him that his brother Claudius was the one who killed him. He gives Hamlet the duty of killing Claudius in revenge and Hamlet agrees to do so. The task seems easy at first but as the play advances, Hamlet finds it tough to complete such a cruel task. I found it interesting how Hamlet’s hesitation to kill Claudius and get revenge for his father’s death drives him mad and ultimately causes the death of many innocent people, including himself. If Hamlet would have just killed Claudius the first chance he had then he would have prevented many deaths. The play Hamlet put on for the royal court proved that Claudius was guilty so Hamlet was finally prepared to murder him. Hamlet quickly realizes that Claudius is praying alone and decides that he cannot kill him at that time because he does not want him to go to heaven. Hamlet felt that would not be satisfactory revenge. He really dislikes Claudius at this point in the play not only for secretly killing his father but also for marrying his mother and telling him to stop mourning. This gave me a negative impression of Claudius so of course I agreed with Hamlet’s decision not to kill him at that moment, unaware of what effects it would have on the other characters of the play. The delay gives Claudius too much time to set up the murdering of Hamlet and also time for Hamlet’s madness to be driven further. When Hamlet goes to confront his motherShow MoreRelatedHamlet, By William Shakespeare880 Words   |  4 PagesWilliam Shakespeare is praised as the pioneering English poet and playwright whose collection of theatrical works is regarded as the greatest artistic value throughout the history of English literature. Shakespeare delved into the spiritual and mental component of humanity and the consequences that arise from this human spirit when it is disputed. The most famous revenge tragedy play, Hamlet, is an excellent illustration of Shakespeare’s philosophical study of human nature. In Hamlet, the arguableRead MoreHamlet, By William Shakespeare899 Words   |  4 PagesWilliam Shakespeare, author of Hamlet, was a well-known author in the 1500s and is still popular today. He was born on April 24, 1564 in London, England. Although there were no birth records at that time, it shows he was baptized one year prior to that, which leads us to believe his birthday was in 1564 because children were normally baptized a year after their birth. Shakespeare’s writing style was very different than others at that time. He used many metaphors and rhetorical phrases, and most ofRead MoreHamlet, By William Shakespeare996 Words   |  4 PagesHamlet, written by William Shakespeare, with out a doubt holds the most famous soliloquy in English history spoken by Hamlet in Act III, scene i, lines 57-90. This soliloquy holds much importance to the play as a whole because it ties together the reoccurring themes of suicide and Hamlet’s inaction portrayed by Shakespeare. Hamlet poses a problem, which is the driving force of the play: â€Å"To be or not to be?†(III.i.57). Shakespeare uses this logical question asked by Hamlet to drive out his underlyingRead MoreHamlet, By William Shakespeare1178 Words   |  5 Pages In William Shakespeare’s play Hamlet, the protagonist suffers from struggles with major characters, especially with the women in his life. While reading the play Hamlet, Hamlet appears to be a disillusioned man. Throughout the play, Shakespeare has only casted two females: Gertrude and Ophelia. Gertrude is defined to be incestuous, naà ¯ve and cold-hearted. On the other side, Ophelia is characterized to be ignorant, innocent and fearful. After the quick marriage of his mother and evil uncle, Hamlet’sRead MoreHamlet, By William Shakespeare1308 Words   |  6 PagesHamlet is arguably one of the greatest tragedies in all of literature and when most people think of tragic plays, they think of none other than the one who wrote it, William Shakespeare. This classic story of revenge excites it’s readers with its main character, Prince Hamlet, who goes through the unique human-like process of revenge that is often overlooked. Many other stories rely heavily on the logi c of good people doing good things and bad people doing bad things just for the sake of their natureRead MoreHamlet, By William Shakespeare Essay1453 Words   |  6 PagesHamlet by William Shakespeare explores many aspects of mankind--death, betrayal, love, and mourning. Out of these, the most prominent theme in this play is death in the form of suicide. The main character, Hamlet, finds himself questioning the quality of life and the uncertainty of the afterlife once he discovers news of his father s death and the corruption in the kingdom that follows. Ophelia, Hamlet’s lover, is found dead later in the plot and is presumed to have committed suicide. In Hamlet’sRead MoreHamlet, By William Shakespeare1146 Words   |  5 PagesA character so complex, enticing and fascinating, his name is Hamlet. We are all Hamlet, and that, is the argument. Hamlet is an enigmatic character with many flaws. These flaws are the ones that prove similarities between us and him. A play so popular and significant is due to its huge relevance to us as a society. In the play Hamlet, William Shakespeare uses Hamlet’s character and metaphor to demonstrate that when one is left alone to their thoughts, these thoughts overtake reason. ConsequentlyRead MoreHamlet by William Shakespeare1456 Words   |  6 PagesThe play Hamlet, by William Shakespeare, takes place in a time where the impossible was a part of the lives of everyday people. Occurrences that people in the modern time would believe unbelievable. Yet, with just a quill and parchment Shakespeare’s is able to connect the past and present by weaving a plot with skill that is still unparalleled to this day. The play Hamlet this exceeds this expectation by revealing depth of Hamlets, the protagonists, character personality through the useRead MoreHamlet, By William Shakespeare1920 Words   |  8 PagesIn the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare, the character Hamlet must deal with both external and internal conflict. Hamlet encounters many struggles and has trouble finding a way to deal with them. With so many corrupt people in his life, Hamlet feels as if there is no one that he can trust and begins to isolate himself from others. A result from this isolation leads Hamlet to become melancholy. Hamlet struggles with suicidal thoughts, wants to kill King Claudius, and is distraught over his mother’sRead MoreHamlet, By William Shakespeare900 Words   |  4 PagesIn this story Hamlet, by William Shakespeare, there was an excessive deal of questions surrounding Hamlet’s mental state. Claudius’s nephew hadn’t been the same since his father passed away. It’s been up for discussion as if he’s actually senseless surrounding the death, or the wedding between his mom and uncle. Gertrude and the King married approximately a month or two after the funeral. At this point it’s not actually established what the cause of his actions is. Was Hamlet at fault for Polonius’s

Academic Strategies Free Essays

This is a five-part assignment. You should have already accessed the assignment in Canvas and completed the previous four steps: 1 . Watch the Academic Strategies video. We will write a custom essay sample on Academic Strategies or any similar topic only for you Order Now 2. Practice annotating Plat’s Allegory of the Cave using the concepts taught In the video. 3. Watch the video lecture on the Allegory of the Cave and practice taking notes during the lecture. 4. Take the practice quiz In Canvas to see how well you were able to anticipate the questions. The fifth and final part of the assignment Is to save and submit this file, along with a copy of your annotated allegory and lecture notes. Note: there are scanner is each of the 1 1 open-access computer labs on campus. Assignment Assess how effective your notes and annotations were. Before scanning your notes and annotation, clearly identify by quiz number where relevant information is present. For example, if question one was answered in your annotation marks, put a number one next to that part in your annotation. Complete the two grids and questions below before saving and submitting in Canvas along with your two other scanned files. Quiz Question Did you miss the question? Is the answer to the question In your text annotation or lecture notes? Text Annotation Lecture Notes Match each part of the allegory with the best possible interpretation. Partly This information I found in my notes. I think I Just got confused about how I had written it and how I interpreted it. Based on the lecture, which of the following Is NOT true of Socrates? No Both Which of the following fictional works was given In lecture as an example of an allegory. No The prisoners chained at the base of the cave are like . Yes Again, I think I Just misinterpreted my notes and what I thought was the idea. What does the sun outside the cave represent? No Which of the following is not true in the Banking Model of Education? Yes I didn’t read the â€Å"not true† part of the question and instead answered what I thought was true. What is the significance of the activity of â€Å"naming? † Liberal Arts Education is the process of becoming a free person liberated from intellectual vices such as apathy, lack of curiosity, and ignorance. Using the metaphors and symbols of the cave, why does the university require students to engage in the process of Liberal Arts Education? No Both. Could have connected it better to the story. Even the best students often encounter challenges with their study skills throughout their college career. In fact, it is not uncommon for students who earned As in high school to seek out additional study strategies once they experience the variety of coursework in college. Identify a couple of challenges that you may expect to encounter with regard to your own study skills, and then discuss the resources available and your action plan to overcome those challenges. Challenges Resources Action Plan Example: Inability to fully concentrate and take notes during a long lecture. US Academic Resource Center online information and workshops, I. . Information about active listening during lectures. Read the information on the ARC website about listening during lectures. Practice habits of an effective listener listed on the website. Take a quick nap before class, put phone and laptop away, and practice concentrating during history class. Visit ARC workshop if that doesn’t work. 1. I am worried I will be a procrastinator, and not work as hard as I should on my studying. I can go use the US Academic Resource Center and watch helpful videos. I can also offer to some of the videos that have been used on the US 1010 Canvas course. Start making study schedules. I need to start doing my homework when it is handed out and fresh in my mind. I need to do homework when it is first available for me to do it. I can also make calendars and plan out my weeks. 2. I will also struggle to keep up with the rest of the class. I am a slow learner, and I am worried I will fall behind. I can use the resources my professor gives me, like Supplemental groups and use the opportunity to study with my peers. I need to start going to Supplemental Instruction Courses and make time to learn more when I am not aught up. I need to make sure I put in extra time to study and stay caught up. Did you use your annotation and notes while taking the quiz? If so, would you have done as well if this was a closed-note quiz? I did use my notes and annotation, but I think I would have probably done Just as well as I did without them. What did you learn while doing this assignment? It is important to do well on note-taking and annotating. Even if you are not able to use those on a test or quiz, you retain more information by writing it down and going through the material repeatedly afterwards. How to cite Academic Strategies, Papers

The Secret Service free essay sample

The most obvious of its other activities is executive protection, which began after the assassination of President McKinley in 1901 (Treasury, 2002, Online). In the sass, Americas monetary system was very disorganized. Bills and coins were issued by each state through individual banks, which generated many types of legal currency. With so many different kinds of bills In circulation, it was easy for people to counterfeit money. The Secret Service officially went to work on July 5, 1865. He Civil War, was very successful in his first year, closing more than 200 counterfeiting plants. This success helped prove the value of the Secret Service, and in 1866 the National Headquarters was established in the Department of the Treasury building in Washington, D. C (Treasury, 2002, Online). During the evening of the same day President Lincoln established the Secret Service, he was assassinated at Fords Theatre in Washington, D. C. , by John Wilkes Booth.The country mourned as news spread that the President had been shot (White House, online). We will write a custom essay sample on The Secret Service or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page It was the first time in our nations history that a President had been assassinated and it was the reason that the Congress eventually, after two more residential assassinations, added Presidential protection to the list of duties performed by the Secret Service. Since 1901, every President from Theodore Roosevelt on has been protected by the Secret Service.In 191 7, threats against the President became a felony and Secret Service protection was broadened to include all members of the First Family (White House, online). In 1951, protection of the Vice President and the President-elect was added. After the assassination of Presidential candidate Robert Kennedy in 1 968, President Lyndon B. Johnson (1963-1969) authorized the Secret Service to protect all Presidential candidates. Over the years, the Secret Services function has continued to change and grow.Its functions include: C] Protecting the President and Vice President and their families, candidates for those offices, former Presidents and their families, and visiting heads of foreign states and governments; Enforcing laws against counterfeiting currency, coins, or securities of the united States; 0 Enforcing laws against fraud or forgery of Government checks or bonds, and other securities and obligations of the United States; C] Investigating credit and debit card fraud, computer fraud, and electronic undo transfer fraud: D Furnishing physical security for the White House, the Main other cities. Treasury, 2002, Online). These functions are directly reflected, below, in their mission statement and fall into two distinct categories 0 the investigative mission and the protective mission. The United States Secret Service is mandated by statute and executive order to carry out two significant missions: protection and criminal investigations. The Secret Service protects the President and Vice President, their families, heads of state, and other designated individuals; investigates threats against these prosecutes; protects the White House, Vice Presidents Residence, and other buildings within Washington, D.C. ; and plans and Foreign Missions, implements security designs for designated National Special Security Events. The Secret Service also investigates violations of laws relating to counterfeiting of obligations and securities of the United States; financial crimes that include, but are not limited to, access device fraud, financial institution fraud, identity theft, computer fraud; and computer-based attacks on our nations financial, banking, and telecommunications infrastructure. Protection remains the Secret Services primary mission.The Secret Service Uniformed Division shares in accomplishing this mission through its protection of the White House and its immediate surroundings, as well as the residence of the Vice President, and over 170 foreign embassies located in Washington, D. C. Originally a force comprised of a few members of the military and the Metropolitan Police Department, it began formalized protection of the White House and its grounds in 1860. This unit was under the direction of the White House Military Aide until July 1, 1922 when President Warren G. Harding prompted the establishment of a White House Police Force.It was not until 1930, after an unknown intruder managed to walk into the White House dining room, that President Herbert Hoover recognized the need for the White House Police and the Secret Service to Join forces. President Hoover wanted the Secret Service to exclusively control every aspect of Presidential protection; therefore, Congress placed the supervision of the White House Police under the direction of the Chief of the Secret Service. In 1970, Public Law 91-217 expanded the role of the White House Police, newly named the Executive Protective Service, to include protection of politico missions in the Washington, D.C. ,area. Congress later added the protection of the Vice Presidents immediate family to the Executive Protective Services growing responsibilities in 1974. After several name revisions, the force officially adopted its current name, the United States Secret Service Uniformed Division in 1977. The Special Agent Division assists with the Secret Services protective mission through their work with personal protection. Agents in this division are responsible for the welfare, safety, and protection of certain eligible individuals. The SecretService protective methods are generally the same for all individuals protected. Permanent prosecutes, such as the President and the First Lady, have details of special agents assigned to them. Temporary prosecutes, such as candidates and foreign dignitaries, have details of special agents on temporary assignment from The Secret Service does not discuss methods or means in any detail, however generally speaking, the advance team surveys each site to be visited. From these surveys, the members determine manpower, equipment, hospitals, and evacuation routes for emergencies.Fire, rescue, and other public service personnel in the community are alerted. A command post is established with full communications facilities. The assistance of the military, federal, state, county, and local law enforcement organizations is a vital part of the entire security operation. Before the protectors arrival, the lead advance agent coordinates all law enforcement representatives participating in the visit. Personnel are posted and are alerted to specific problems associated with the visit. Intelligence information is discussed, identification specified, and emergency options outlined.Prior to the arrival of the protected, checkpoints are established, and access to the secured area is limited. During the visit, Secret Service and local law enforcement personnel form a network of support for members of the detail surrounding the protected. The Secret Service command post acts as the communication center for protective activities, monitors emergencies, and keeps all participants in contact with one another. After the visit, agents analyze every step of the protective operation, record unusual incidents, and suggest improvements for the future. Protective research is an integral component of all security operations.Agents and specialists assigned to protective research evaluate information received from law enforcement/intelligence agencies and a variety of other sources regarding individuals or groups who may pose a threat to Secret Service prosecutes. They review questionable letters and emails received at the White House and maintain a 24-hour operation to receive, coordinate and disseminate protection-related information. While most people associate the Secret Service with Presidential protection, their original mandate was to investigate the counterfeiting of U. S. Currencywhich they still do.The Secret Services primary investigative mission is to safeguard the payment and financial systems of the United States. This has been historically accomplished through the enforcement of the counterfeiting statutes to preserve the integrity of United States currency, coin and financial obligations. Since 1984, their investigative responsibilities have expanded to include crimes that involve financial institution fraud, computer and telecommunications fraud, false identification documents, access device fraud, advance fee fraud, electronic funds transfers, and money laundering as it relates to their core violations. Three different divisions assist the Secret Service in accomplishing this investigative mission the Special Agent Division, the Financial Crimes Division, and the Forensic Services Division. Due to my personal interests, I found the Forensic Services Division particularly interesting. Forensic examiners in the Secret Service Forensic Services Division (FSP) provide analysis for questioned documents, fingerprints, false identification, credit cards, and other related forensic science areas. Examiners use both instrumental and chemical analysis when reviewing evidence. FSP also manages the Secret Services polygraph program nationwide.The division coordinates photographic, Identification Program. In addition, FSP is responsible for handling the Forensic Hypnosis Program. Much of the forensic assistance the Secret Service offers is unique technology operated in this country only by FSP. The Secret Service has approximately 5,000 employees, and field offices located throughout the continental U. S. ; in Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerco Rich; and liaison offices in Paris, France; London, England; Bonn, Germany; Rome and Milan, Italy; Hong Kong, China; Ottawa, Montreal and Vancouver, Canada; Nicosia, Cyprus; Bogota, Colombia; Manila, Philippines; and Bangkok, Thailand.It has more than 2,100 special agents who are rotated throughout their careers between investigative and permanent protective assignments. Agents assigned to investigative duties in the Services field offices also serve as a source of additional manpower for temporary protective details, such as those for candidates or visiting foreign dignitaries. The Secret Service also has approximately 1,200 officers in the Uniformed Division. Officers of the Uniformed Division carry out their protective responsibilities through special support units (Counterspies, Canine Explosive Detection Team, Emergency ResponseTeam, Crime Scene Search Technicians, Special Operations Section, Magnetometers) and a network of fixed security posts, foot, bicycle, vehicular and motorcycle patrols. Numerous specialists in a wide variety of occupations contribute their expertise to the Secret Services investigative and protective missions. They include security specialists, electronics engineers, communications technicians, research psychologists, computer experts, armored, intelligence analysts, polygraph examiners, forensic experts, and professionals in many other fields.The United States Secret Service is dramatically different today than it was Just here years ago. This is primarily due to the events surrounding September 11, 2001. That morning, there were 4,600 employees of the Secret Service deployed around the world while a special c ontingent was with President George W. Bush at an elementary school. In a matter of minutes, the Secret Service deployed armed agents into Lafayette Park to clear it and evacuated the Capitol and west wing of the White House. Four planes had been hijacked by terrorists, the World Trade Center was in ashes, the Pentagon had been hit, and the nation knew that it was at war.What kind f war, and how it would involve the Secret Service would remain to be seen. On October 26, 2001, in a crowded White House Press Room, President George W. Bush signed the Patriot Act, a broad-sweeping anti-terrorism bill. The full text of his speech is included on the White House web site, along with a recorded TV version. The President explained in his speech that this bill is an essential step in defeating terrorism, while protecting the constitutional rights of all Americans [and giving] intelligence and law enforcement officials important new tools to fight a present danger (Bush, 2001, Online). The changes, effective today, will help counter a threat like no other our nation has ever faced. Weve seen the enemy, and the murder of thousands of innocent, unsuspecting people. They recognize no barrier of morality. They have no conscience. The terrorists cannot be reasoned with.. . But one thing is for certain: These terrorists must be pursued, they must be defeated, and they must be brought to Justice.. Since the 1 lath of September, the men and women of our intelligence and law enforcement agencies have been relentless in their response to Less than three days after the attack, the Secret Service held a press conference and he spokesman started out by pointing out that the Treasury Department has a strong personal agenda following the attack, since TAFT, Customs, IRS CLC and the Secret Service all had facilities at the World Trade Towers that were completely destroyed by Tuesdays terrorist actions (2001, FAST online).The spokesman then explained that in addition to the more traditional law enforcement role, Treasury is committed to fighting terrorism with every asset that we have available and then announced that Treasury has established an inter-agency team dedicated to the disruption of terrorist fundraising. The team is designed to increase our ability to identify foreign terrorist groups, assess their sources and methods of fundraising, and provide information that will make clear to law enforcement officials how terrorist funds are moved.This team will ultimately be transformed into a permanent Foreign Terrorist Asset Tracking Center in the Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Asset Control(OPAC). This is an extraordinary effort that really illustrates the Treasury Departments creativity in developing new ways to combat terrorists (2001 , FAST online). And in a very unusual cooperative effort, the Secret Service, the FBI, and the private sector, have Joined forces to create a national Cybernetic Response and Reporting System.The first step was a reporting procedure and guidelines for companies to report violations, and these guidelines were published in the trade Journal for Close (CIO, 2002). The CIO Cybernetic Response Reporting Guidelines provide step-by- step information on how businesses should plan and respond to attacks on their information systems, including worms, viruses, hacks and other breaches. The guidelines advise Close and business leaders to establish a relationship with law enforcement today, before their next attack happens.The document also provides suggested points of contact, as well as an easy-to-follow report form detailing the initial information law enforcement needs to investigate. Also, the FBI and the United States Secret Service are expanding the ways that they can share federal Jurisdiction for inve stigating and prosecuting cybercafà © across state lines. The need for cyber reporting guidelines came to the forefront at a CIO magazine conference in October 2001 when a United States Attorney addressed Close on law enforcement post September 1 lath and the need for businesses to report cybercafà © to officials. Discussions are also underway for determining ways in which the Secret Service can work with the INS. As Miller (2001), points out Nearly half a billion foreigners enter the U. S. Each year, and the most stringent demand many of them will face is filling out a form asking where theyre headed; the forms are then shipped off to storage, where they probably wont ever be seen again. What the country needs is a high-tech method of tracking foreigners as they enter and leave. Right now, the federal government doesnt even know how many people are in the country with expired visas, let alone who they are or where they live (Miller, 2001 , 21).It is safe to surmise that the Secret Service will be greatly involved in determining Service by surprise. Indeed, authors such as Steven Emerson have been writing about Islamic terrorists in the United States since the early sass. In his troubling book American Jihad, Emerson details how the United States government and the Secret Service are actively monitoring terrorist cells affiliated with Osama bin Aldens al Qaeda network in eleven cities, from Florida to Boston to Denver to Houston. In January 2003, W. Ralph Bash was sworn in as the 21st Director of the United States Secret service.Director Bash was charged with developing a post September 1 lath strategic plan that could meet the challenges the Secret Service face in their ever expanding mission after being realigned under the Department of Homeland Security. In his strategic plan, Director Bash addresses the Secret Services goals and objectives, along with the means and strategies to accomplish them. The Secret Service has three goals 0 the protective strategic goal, the investigative strategic goal, and the support strategic go al (Secret Service, online).

EasyJet Company

Introduction The purpose of this report is to define key problems and critical issues of easyJet, discuss McKinsey’s 7S framework, analyse driving forces, external environment and the position of the company comparing with competitors.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on EasyJet Company specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Key Problems and Critical Issues This company has to consider both internal and external problems, for instance, the management of this company faced challenges to control internal management system and implement a strategic plan like motivate the employees, changed the status from private to public, use subcontractors, maintain a relationship with directors and customers. However, a reporter Sunday Times investigated availability of its low fares and stated that easyJet theoretically asked low price, but practically the customers have to pay more while the price of the services depends on many factors including time factors (earlier flight was much more expensive), taxation policy, unrealistic decision of the management and so on. SWOT Analysis Strengths Weaknesses Strong brand image in the airline industry; It has enough financial capability to expand business in a new route; Outstanding customer service; Online service and e-commerce facilities; Easyjet is able to offset high fuel costs; Loyal customer base Decrease profit for the global recession high remuneration to their employees and directors; Unusual crisis, for example, IT security and fraud risk, Opportunities Threats It has the opportunity to become a market leader in the low-cost aviation industry; Increase the number of routes Long-term objectives to build a strong position in short-haul route while the low-cost market could grow by as much as 300% by 2004; Extreme competition from other low-cost carriers and Europe’s major carriers; Internal challenges for entry of potent new co mpetitors; Legal barriers and environmental problem; Table 1: SWOT analysis of easyJet Source: Self-generated McKinsey Seven 7S Framework for easyJet Strategy: The core organizational strategy of the company is to offer highly competitive fares and sustain in the market by competing with existing and new carriers; Systems: the management system has considered both manual and technological factors; however, easyJet is fully equipped with IT facilities; Shared Values: It consists of three essential elements culture, believes and values; easyJet has organized several programs like workshops, and simulations to explain its objectives and develop a good relationship with employees and other shareholders; Skills: To develop the employee’s performance, it arranged training while it has many young and relatively inexperienced employees; Style: Stelios was a charismatic leader who struggled to shape the business though he followed the autocratic leadership style to implement maj or decision; Staffs: Retention of the employees is the problem while competitors recruit the employees of easyJet providing a higher salary, for instance, British Airways hired away its lawyer providing  £500,000 per year; Structure: easyJet follows a comparatively complicated organizational structure where CEO controlled managers of all departments along with subcontractors, outside vendors. Driving Forces It is notable that although there are certain deficiencies among the workforce of easyJet, its internal-forces are still quite impressive because of expertise and proficiency of the top management and the CEO (although the CEO is somewhat authoritarian and does not bother much about directors’ advises); so, the forthcoming position of easyJet could be optimistic; however, the external forces are analysed below: Bargaining Power of Suppliers: the key suppliers like Boeing and Airbus have moderate to high bargaining powers Bargaining Power of Customers: the customers in this industry respond greatly to raising fares as their switching costs are relatively low New Entrants: the barriers to enter the market are vast amounts of capital investments and strict laws, which makes it tough for new entrants to start-up and sustain Threat of Substitutes: there are high threats of substitutes Competitive Rivalry: there are strong rivalry from other low-cost carriers Analysis of Statute Vs Competition:Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More To protect the flag carriers and national businesses, most countries enacted laws to prevent competition; nevertheless, in 1992, the EU passed legislation to deregulate the industry, which meant that all businesses faced extreme rivalry. Enactment of such statute became a huge problem for luxurious and expensive flag carriers like British Airways, because people now had a choice to travel by low-cost carriers like easyJet , go, or Ryanair; consequently the competition in the industry became very intense; conversely, low-cost carriers from different European nations started competing by offering economical prices to attract customers. Environmental Scanning Political Factors Governmental policies like unfriendly taxation or enactment of unfair autocratic laws may pose problems for the players; however, the EU ensures that such actions are prevented and the member states are compliant with the EU-laws. Economic Factors The industry is recovering after the global financial crisis and new opportunities are generated for low-cost carriers like easyJet and Ryanair Socio-Cultural Factors The market players of the industry have incorporated their own corporate social responsibility guidelines in order to make sure that they are conducting ethical businesses and contributing to communities. Technological Factor The aviation industry is heavily reliant on the uses of technology and so the market players need t o keep up with technological advancements in operations and new aircraft models. Environmental Factor The European aviation industry needs to strictly comply with all the environmental laws and make sure that the emission of CFCs is lower; moreover, companies like easyJet need to use fuel-efficient engines.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on EasyJet Company specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Legal Factors Legislation plays a major role in the industry; in the 1990s, the European airline industry was greatly regulated, and individual nations wanted to protect their flag carriers; however, in 1992, the EU passed law to deregulate the industry, which meant that all airline businesses were open to competition; as a result, easyJet now experiences free market competition. Where Is Easy Jet Today Whilst 60 out of 80 carriers (which were established in the same decade) are already bankrupted, easyJet is still in a leading p osition in the industry; moreover, today, deregulation provided easyJet access to new routes, strengthening its position financially, for example, it has about 100 scheduled flights each day using a fleet of 20 Boeing 737s and serving 26 destination. Evaluation of Range of Alternative Courses of Action Alternative Solutions Evaluation Criteria for Strategic Alternatives Adopt a situational approach of leadership This report recommends easyJet to consider situational leadership style instead of autocratic approach as it does not follow any specific style of leadership rather leader takes a decision considering present position of the company Stelio had taken the majority of the decision as per his knowledge and ethics; therefore, he not intended to refund the customer and said his finance directors that you were pulling my hair out, which reduced the perception of the customers and demoralize the management team; It would be possible to increase market share in the European sh ort-haul routes; This policy complied with the vision of easyJet Restructuring Pricing Strategy including refund policy It would help the company to create a strong customer base in certain markets; so, by offering further low fares, easyJet could capture more market share Revenues may decrease anytime due to adverse economic condition; therefore, the restructuring pricing strategy would provide a backup, so that the customers remain loyal even after diminishing purchasing powers Operating at economies of scale could be one of easyJet’s core competencies, so, capacity utilization development by reducing production cost would assist the company to offer low price The growth of the industry could be reduced due to the Eurozone crisis; so, reforming pricing strategy is the only solution to sustain as a market leader Adopting this strategy has minimal financial risk; however, the European Commission could impose fines for breaking competition law in the EU zone Improve motivation and focus on staff retention Advisors team feared Stelio’s entrepreneurial management style and they believed that CEO should change his approach to motivate the employees; thus, strategy complied with the vision of the company; To retain employees, they need to provide competitive remuneration along with facilities; Implementation of this strategy may create any serious financial problem; The CEO and top-management should appreciate a good idea of other members; Table 2: Strategic Alternatives Source: Self-generated Recommendation and Conclusion After evaluating the alternative courses of action, it could be said that the best recommendation for the company would be to implement the alternative of adopting a situational approach of leadership so that the business can better perform in certain areas, as suggested in the above evaluations. However, easyJet should remain cautious in undertaking strategies and in decision-making to make sure that there is an ac tive revenue generation even during the Eurozone crisis. Works Cited Branson, Richard. The Web’s Favourite Airline. 2000, International Institute for Management, Switzerland This essay on EasyJet Company was written and submitted by user Emiliano Gould to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Reaction Paper on Roger and Me Essays

Reaction Paper on Roger and Me Essays Reaction Paper on Roger and Me Essay Reaction Paper on Roger and Me Essay Roger and Me is a documentary starring Michael Moore that reveals the hard hitting economic impact General Motors left on Flint, Michigan. Throughout the film it is clear that General Motors was a huge factor in Flint’s financial system and slowly by surely it becomes evident that many of the residents living in Flint were eventually someway shape or form affected by layoffs from General Motors. These layoffs came from General Motors attempt to adopt the concept of globalization, all the while General Motors tries to make sense out of the lay offs by stating that the Japanese auto makers were intense competition and their only result at the time was to either close the factories or look to the government for subsidies. While all this is being said, the truth had been told that General Motors was experiencing some of the highest profit rates in the previous years of that company. There are a couple of reasons why I would partially side with Roger Smith, however given the opportunity to be placed in Mr. Smiths shoes my loyalty would be completely with the workers that helped General Motors make the company what it was. Globalization. This is the key to almost any major corporation, why? Because everyone’s goal is to be profitable throughout the seven continents as well as number one, and in order to be the best u must take your company on a multi national level. This is exactly what Roger smith was trying to accomplish. From a business point of view it is understood that no matter how well your doing, you always want to do better, however putting 80,000 people out of work without any just reason besides the dollar signs flashing in ones eyes is unacceptable. What I observed was a man who not only tried to elevate his company to a global level, but without a doubt had an insatiable craving for money. This statement is proven when General Motors made a direct investment into Mexico therefore instead of paying the loyal employees actual working rates, local Mexicans would be paid next to nothing. General Motors left a huge mark on Flint, Michigan, and after watching Roger and Me it left a huge mark on my thoughts about the company. After crippling Flint’s economic state Roger Smith did not even take the time to face the horrible facts. Truth of the matters is he knew how it would affect the town but frankly did not care at all. With the plants closing it not only took a toll on the employees who worked their, but the whole town. With 80,000 jobs being lost in one town that is certain to affect 9 out of 10 households in Flint eventually causing the whole town to fall. Most working class citizens cannot live off of one income if their spouse is not working and with General motors no longer being able to supply the bulk of the jobs in Flint any longer this caused people to move willingly and some unwillingly. Many businesses were forced to close down because there was no one left any longer to help the business’s stay a float financially. This unfortunately was an event that Flint till this day has not recovered and seems if the town will never recover. To this day Flint is poverty stricken, and abandoned buildings are still vacant. Just to look back on the devastation Roger Smith brought to this town, I wonder if he ever really took a look at what he had done to an entire town and if he had at least an ounce of remorse at all. Quite honestly I don’t think he ever did, but that is a wish I would like to come true so he could understand the burden he placed in these hard workers filled with loyalty. Without a doubt in my mind Michael Moore was 100% correct with approaching Roger Smith the way he did and I completely agree with the reasons he tried to contact him. In a sense I do feel that a company should have a loyalty to their employees and vice versa. Given a different financial issue concerning General Motors I would have possibly understood if they had to lay off a couple people or maybe close one plant, but there were no financial troubles to be foreseen at all, just pure greed. Roger Smith should have owned up to what he did instead of constantly running away from questions that he could not answer and still go home with a clean conscience. Just to think about the neglect to care for the welfare of loyal employees sickens me and gives me a negative outlook on General Motors. Theses sort of issues effect the average worker as myself, because I myself have worked for companies where people dedicate themselves to a job as well as do everything the job asks and more only to get nothing in return but a handshake out the door. Overall I enjoyed this film because it opened my eyes up to a lot that goes on in this world, not just within General Motors. Even though I have seen this film before I never got a chance to dissect the reasons behind Roger Smith actions and didn’t really look at how it devastated a town, took the town from something, to absolutely nothing. Given the disturbing effect that General Motors caused, I feel as though a company should not be allowed to disable a community like this, it just seems to be morally unjust. Aside from that, the disloyalty would make anyone turn to the company they work for and weigh how much they are putting into a job, and what they are getting out of it and work definitely should not be that way. Hopefully in the future there could be something set in stone to keep another company from causing destruction to our own American people.

Mexico economy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Mexico economy - Essay Example He has not only monopolised the telecom market, but also fended off competition from potential investors. Additionally, the banking industry is equally uncompetitive. The presence of two major banks that control almost half of the economy means 95% of account owners have no option, but to subscribe to their services. As a result, forcing competition in the banking sector is still not easy. However, recently the Mexican authorities implemented new competition laws to create room for entry of new investors. Though a positive move, the locals and investors still do not fancy their chances of rivalling the big players. Analysis: The monopoly markets in Mexico are the primary reason for stagnated economic growth in the country. They reduce chances of entry of investors due the stringent laws and economies of scale they enjoy. This situation is aided by cases violence in the borders facilitated by drug cartels. These situations drive away potential investors. The lasting solution is to open the economy and let both local and foreign competition force existing firms to adapt to the changes. Free economy will lead to a projected growth rate of 2.5 percent in domestic

Awnser A, B or C Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

Awnser A, B or C - Research Paper Example However, the need for controlling the unknown, for creating parameters through alteration so that the odds of a good life are increased deletes the potential for challenges and obstacles that stimulate creativity and innovation. In trying to control the future, in creating a life in which all elements of natural creation are subjected to human manipulation, the nature of human existence is greatly altered, inextricably detached from the surprises that enrich the nature of life. In genetically engineering children, the natural order of life becomes something that is defined by hubris, eliminating the potential for greatness that is born of adversity and ending the true existence of humanity. Francis Fukuyama puts forth arguments against the use of genetic engineering as a way to improve the human condition. He suggests that to use these forms of science to change the outcomes of life would be an inroad to changing the nature of humanity (Fukuyama). This argument clearly expresses the basic nature of scientific meddling in human development. The concept that humanity is vulnerable to the ways in which science has the capacity to change elements of life provides for a cascade of effects that can ultimately change perceptions, shift ideological beliefs, and push cultural construction towards a world in which little is left that has the basic elements of human life still held within it. When applied to the question of genetic engineering babies, the acceleration of these problems has the potential of changing the nature o human existence to a point where life is essentially changed. In choosing the attributes of a child from a menu of options so that parents have the belief that they can create the exact child that they want, human interaction and existence will fundamentally change in ways that will represent irrecoverable losses. One of the most powerful arguments for human genetic

IRB questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

IRB questions - Essay Example When these expectations become inflated and exaggerated, the health of the marriage will suffer because the couple had a misguided belief on how they would behave toward one another. As an example, if a woman believes that marriage will mean that her husband will come home from work every night and spend his time discussing the day and being attentive to her needs, she may be surprised to find out that all he wants is his own space. However, if she realizes that the effort he went to in making sure that her car is running at top performance was his way of conveying his concern for her safety, then she might find a greater satisfaction in his behavior. Learning to understand the flow of these examples of romance that are not based on materialism or grandiose action, but on everyday subtleties in communications within relationships, can provide a future couples that are overwhelmed and inundated with a complex set of rules that are media driven and unrealistic into tempering those expectations so that joy can be found in the little ways in which two people interact. From the perspective of a researcher, understanding this part of the human experience will allow for a better understanding of the culture of marriage. In designing this research, it is hoped that the way in which fulfillment can be achieved is identified in order to encourage future research into human interaction within the emotional connection of love. 19. Describe methods for selecting subjects and assuring that their participation is voluntary. Attach a copy of the consent form that will be used. If no consent form will be used, explain the procedures used to ensure that participation is voluntary. Note: This information is particularly important in determining that there is no actual or implied coercion to participate. (See attached information on consent forms) Subjects will be selected through recommendations and introductions made by religious leaders within the local community.

Strong Dialogue And Subtext In Shakespeares Othello English Literature Essay

Strong Dialogue And Subtext In Shakespeares Othello English Literature Essay The primary conflict in this scene is between Iago and Cassio. The conflict is not overt, rather Iago is subversively trying to manipulate Cassio into doing what he wants. Iago is disguising his intentions, appearing to join Cassio in trying to get him reinstated, whilst actually setting him up as part of a complex ploy to bring down Othello. The conflict within the text is brought out by the subtext. The scene uses a lot of binary and religious imagery. Cassio refers to drink as the devil whilst Iago refers to it as a good familiar creature. This sets up a binary difference between Cassio and Iago. There is an argument between them as to the value of reputation which brings in a minor, and perhaps subtextual, conflict between Iago and himself. Iago previously states one of his primary motivations for setting up Othello is his wounded pride at Cassios promotion ahead of him. But here, when Cassio speaks of his own pride, his wounded reputation, Iago downplays reputation as idle and m ost false. It could be read that Iago is downplaying a flaw in himself when it is recognized in Cassio. Because the scene contains few stage directions, strong dialogue is essential. It must be functional as well as able to maintain the audiences interest. Every line either establishes character, reinforces subtext, or moves the story. For example, Iagos dialogue furthers the plot twice, first when suggesting that Cassio be reinstated, and second when he suggests how Cassio should go about being reinstated. The primary tool Iago uses to influence action is dialogue. The characters of Cassio, Othello and Desdemona are established through dialogue. Cassios fears about reputation can be seen as his defining characteristic, one that alludes to other virtues that the character may have, as does Iagos answering comment you are too severe a moraler. His flaws are also revealed, as he shifts the blame of his actions to the influence of drink, (which, through clever use of binary imagery, also alludes to the influence of Iago) and concern for his reputation is also painted as a flaw, one which Iago will exploit. Othellos character is hinted at by both Cassio and Iago. Cassio, in protesting his worthiness, indicates that Othello is morally superior, where Iago, in his line our Generals wife is now the General indicates that he is, for want of a better word, whipped. He also tells Cassio sue to him again and hes yours which indicates that Othello is malleable. Desdemonas virtues are also established through Iagos dialogue, as he refers to them as a tool to be manipulated. Through Iagos reactions to the virtues of others, his own character is built on.   The dialogue also hints at his intentions without explicitly stating them, for example Reputation isà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦oft got without merit is both directly referring to Cassios speech about his reputation and indirectly to Iagos reputation as an honest man that is without merit. Due to the imagery and themes, the dialogue does not lose meaning to a modern reader, although speech patterns have changes dramatically since the time Othello was written.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Drunk? And speak parrot? And squabble? Swagger? Swear?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   And discourse fustian with ones own shadow? Although a modern reader/audience may not quite understand the meaning of discourse fustian the can relate to the sentiment of drunken stupidity. Although through the current dialogue, Iagos motivations appear to be the same as Cassios, we are aware of Iagos true motivations, as opposed to those he is expressing to Cassio. Because we are aware and constantly reminded of this subtext, the author peppers the script with various in-jokes and ironic references. Iago entertains himself with the thought that he is fooling the others, and the audience is also entertained in this way. The audience is aware of Iagos intentions from the beginning, therefore his motivations for suggesting Cassio talk to Desdemona are obvious. The scene relies heavily on the subtext to reveal the irony of the text, for example when Cassio says You advise me well at the end. Iago is a complex character and, although his motivations are stated early in the play, these motivations are often discredited and weakened by his own arguments, as seen in his spiel against reputation, and therefore pride. The repeated use of irony and in-jokes isolate his character from the others which, when combined with his view of other characters as tools, both controllable and expendable, creates a sociopathic personality that hints at a complex, and very human, reasoning process. This allows a director, and, to an extent the actor, the flexibility to portray Iago as very human or inhumanly demonic, depending on what other subtexts and themes they wish to accentuate.

Reading Comprehension :: essays research papers

READING COMPREHENSION This test measures your ability to understand what you read. You may be asked to:  identify the relationship between sentences  distinguish between the main and secondary ideas  make inferences DIRECTIONS: Read the statement or passage and then choose the best answer to the question. Answer the question on the basis of what is stated or implied in the statement or passage. 1. Myths are stories, the products of fertile imagination, sometimes simple, often containing profound truths. They are not meant to be taken too literally. Details may sometimes appear childish, but most myths express a culture's most serious beliefs about human beings, eternity, and God. The main idea of this passage is that myths (a) are created primarily to entertain young children (b) are purposely written for the reader (c) provide the reader with a means of escape from reality (d) illustrate the values that are considered important to a society 2. Australia has many strange beasts, one of the oddest of which is the koala. Perfectly adapted to one specific tree, the eucalyptus, this living teddy bear does not need anything else, not even a drink! The moisture in the leaves is just right for the koala, making it the only land animal that doesn't need water to supplement its food (from That Astounding Creator Nature by Jean George). The passage indicates that the koala (a) is a member of the bear family that does not need moisture to live (b) gets all of its nourishment from the eucalyptus tree (c) adapts itself to any surroundings (d) is the only animal that does not need food to live 3. It is early summer. August's long-awaited vacation time still seems ages away, but by the same toke, its torpor-producing heat and mildew-generating humidity have not yet arrived. Instead, these cool, end-of-June days practically insist on getting the picnic season under way immediately. But, alas, there is a difficulty: alfresco dining has a bad name among us. Tenth-rate hot dogs, carbonized chicken parts, and beef a-la-charcoal are principally what comes to mind when we hear the words "outdoor food" (from A Spanish Picnic by Robert Capon). The passage suggests that the author believes that (a) picnicking in August is long-awaited (b) August is better than June for a picnic (c) there are some negative aspects to eating outside (d) picnicking is better alfresco 4. In embarking on the fight for independence, America faced formidable obstacles. The Continental Congress did not have the authority to pass binding legislation or to impose taxes.

The Poisson Probability Distribution

The Poisson probability distribution, named after the French mathematician Simeon-Denis. Poisson is another important probability distribution of a discrete random variable that has a large number of applications. Suppose a washing machine in a Laundromat breaks down an average of three times a month. We may want to find the probability of exactly two breakdowns during the next month. This is an example of a Poisson probability distribution problem. Each breakdown is called an occurrence in Poisson probability distribution terminology.The Poisson probability distribution is applied to experiments with random and independent occurrences. The occurrences are random in the sense that they do not follow any pattern, and, hence, they are unpredictable. Independence of occurrences means that one occurrence (or nonoccurrence) of an event does not influence the successive occurrences or nonoccurrences of that event. The occurrences are always considered with respect to an interval. In the ex ample of the washing machine, the interval is one month. The interval may be a time interval, a space interval, or a volume interval.The actual number of occurrences within an interval is random and independent. If the average number of occurrences for a given interval is known, then by using the Poisson probability distribution, we can compute the probability of a certain number of occurrences, x, in that interval. Note that the number of actual occurrences in an interval is denoted by x. The following three conditions must be satisfied to apply the Poisson probability distribution. 1. x is a discrete random variable. 2. The occurrences are random. 3. The occurrences are independent.The following are three examples of discrete random variables for which the occurrences are random and independent. Hence, these are examples to which the Poisson probability distribution can be applied. 1. Consider the number of telemarketing phone calls received by a household during a given day. In t his example, the receiving of a telemarketing phone call by a household is called an occurrence, the interval is one day (an interval of time), and the occurrences are random (that is, there is no specified time for such a phone call to come in) and discrete.The total number of telemarketing phone calls received by a household during a given day may be 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and so forth. The independence of occurrences in this example means that the telemarketing phone calls are received individually and none of two (or more) of these phone calls are related. 2. Consider the number of defective items in the next 100 items manufactured on a machine. In this case, the interval is a volume interval (100 items).The occurrences (number of defective items) are random and discrete because there may be 0, 1, 2, 3, †¦ , 100 defective items in 100 items. We can assume the occurrence of defective items to be independent of one another. 3. Consider the number of defects in a 5-foot-long iron rod. The interval, in this example, is a space interval (5 feet). The occurrences (defects) are random because there may be any number of defects in a 5-foot iron rod. We can assume that these defects are independent of one another. The Poisson Probability Distribution The Poisson probability distribution, named after the French mathematician Simeon-Denis. Poisson is another important probability distribution of a discrete random variable that has a large number of applications. Suppose a washing machine in a Laundromat breaks down an average of three times a month. We may want to find the probability of exactly two breakdowns during the next month. This is an example of a Poisson probability distribution problem. Each breakdown is called an occurrence in Poisson probability distribution terminology.The Poisson probability distribution is applied to experiments with random and independent occurrences. The occurrences are random in the sense that they do not follow any pattern, and, hence, they are unpredictable. Independence of occurrences means that one occurrence (or nonoccurrence) of an event does not influence the successive occurrences or nonoccurrences of that event. The occurrences are always considered with respect to an interval. In the ex ample of the washing machine, the interval is one month. The interval may be a time interval, a space interval, or a volume interval.The actual number of occurrences within an interval is random and independent. If the average number of occurrences for a given interval is known, then by using the Poisson probability distribution, we can compute the probability of a certain number of occurrences, x, in that interval. Note that the number of actual occurrences in an interval is denoted by x. The following three conditions must be satisfied to apply the Poisson probability distribution. 1. x is a discrete random variable. 2. The occurrences are random. 3. The occurrences are independent.The following are three examples of discrete random variables for which the occurrences are random and independent. Hence, these are examples to which the Poisson probability distribution can be applied. 1. Consider the number of telemarketing phone calls received by a household during a given day. In t his example, the receiving of a telemarketing phone call by a household is called an occurrence, the interval is one day (an interval of time), and the occurrences are random (that is, there is no specified time for such a phone call to come in) and discrete.The total number of telemarketing phone calls received by a household during a given day may be 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and so forth. The independence of occurrences in this example means that the telemarketing phone calls are received individually and none of two (or more) of these phone calls are related. 2. Consider the number of defective items in the next 100 items manufactured on a machine. In this case, the interval is a volume interval (100 items).The occurrences (number of defective items) are random and discrete because there may be 0, 1, 2, 3, †¦ , 100 defective items in 100 items. We can assume the occurrence of defective items to be independent of one another. 3. Consider the number of defects in a 5-foot-long iron rod. The interval, in this example, is a space interval (5 feet). The occurrences (defects) are random because there may be any number of defects in a 5-foot iron rod. We can assume that these defects are independent of one another.

School uniform essays

School uniform essays School uniforms are nowadays a very controversial and well-debated issue although it is still widespread, mostly in English speaking countries. England has a long tradition of school uniforms and is the country where mandatory uniforms are most frequently worn, mostly in elementary and secondary schools. Unexpectedly, school uniforms were traditionally worn by non privileged students in charity schools, and were only later introduced in public schools. A typical uniform consist of dark pants or shorts for boys, skirt for girls, and a shirt or a blouse. A blazer and a school tie might also belong to the Swedish schools does not have an uniform requirement and school uniforms are unknown to most Swedish children. Although students can buy and wear a jumper or T-shirt with the school logo, it is not very common. However, in many Swedish schools the "unofficial" dress code amongst students is very hard. If you don't follow the latest trends you might be treated as hopelessly out of fashion. This demand for expensive brand clothes puts, naturally, a large economical pressure on the parents. This frequent problem leads us into the arguments used by proponents and opponents of the school uniform. I will identify and discuss the most common arguments both in favour for, and against, school uniforms. I will thereafter continue by sharing my own opinion regarding whether or not Sweden should introduce mandatory school uniforms. The most common argument in favour of school uniforms seem to be regarding discipline; that school uniforms encourage the students to focus on schoolwork rather than on socialising or fashion related competition, and might therefore be helpful in improving the discipline and the behaviour, as well as the academic results. School uniforms will also prevent students from wearing inappropriate clothing items ...

Ragtime Essays - Ragtime, Harry Houdini, Escapology, Free Essays

Ragtime Essays - Ragtime, Harry Houdini, Escapology, Free Essays Ragtime In the classic E.L. Doctorow novel, Ragtime, we see the juxtaposition of many motifs to represent Doctorow?s view of the early century. By combining history and fiction Doctorow allows himself to write a semi-accurate interpretation of the early 1900?s while also being able to strongly express his own biases and opinions of the era. The biggest, and perhaps most important theme Doctorow applies in the novel is social tension, or the battle of the rich versus the poor. Other important themes include rebirth, racial tension, and high randomness of events. By using these themes and others, movie makers created a film, which they believe best represents Doctorow?s views. It is apparent that Doctorow clearly favors the poor, lower class, in their struggle for economic and social mobility against the few, rich, upper class citizens. Doctorow?s thoughts are best depicted through the novel?s characters. Tateh, Coalhouse Walker and Sarah are all characters who are portrayed as ?good?. These characters, while representing a wide range of economic success, all symbolize socially challenged individuals. Throughout the novel, Doctorow always chooses these or similar types of characters to be the protagonists. Doctorow wants the reader to feel for Coalhouse?s situation. He wants the reader to hope that Willie Conklin is harmed and the Model T Ford is repaired. On the other hand, Doctorow tells a different tale for the economic elite, upper echelon of society, represented by J.P. Morgan and Henry Ford. Morgan is presented as a snobbish old man, who always gets his way, and we are supposed to feel no remorse for him when his museum is broken int! o. We, the readers, are inclined to agree with Doctorow?s opinion only because that is the way he planned it. Doctorow did not touch on any negative aspects of Coalhouse Walker?s actions, such as innocent firemen that he killed, and their families, perhaps, because this might sway the reader?s belief as to Coalhouse?s innocence. The film, Ragtime, does support Doctorow?s social tension beliefs, however it leaves more things open for the reader to decide. For example the book gives the impression that Coalhouse is killing the racist bad firemen. The movie shows him shooting and blowing up firemen, who perhaps could be ?good? people. The concept of rebirth is used liberally by Doctorow. Doctorow commonly has a character go through a major transmogrification, or rebirth. This rebirth ordinarily happens when moving from one social class to another. Tateh, Houdini, Coalhouse, and mother?s younger brother and clearly are examples of these rebirths. When Tateh goes from being a poor street peddler to a rich movie maker, he goes through a transformation. Tateh starts dressing and acting a lot differently, perhaps also forgetting his Jewish heritage and 5000 years of oppression. Houdini?s alteration is greater than Tateh?s. Houdini goes from a not so well off family to a rich and famous escape artist. Through this social change, Houdini changes his Jewish name Erich Weiss to a more appropriate Christian name of Harry Houdini. As well as changing his name, Houdini also seemed to forget his background. However, later in the novel we find out that Houdini did in fact not forget his heritage. He just cha! nged his name as a career move. Coalhouse Walker?s rebirth is much more dramatic and swift than Tateh?s or Houdini?s. Coalhouse goes from a fine upstanding citizen to a disgruntled man, caught at the end of a racist prank, and out for revenge. At one point, "He sat down with a sheet over his shoulder and permitted one of the young men to shave his head and his neat mustache. The change in him was striking," (). This symbolic and actual rebirth occurs as Coalhouse moves from being a wealthy prominent musician to a fugitive on the run. Mother?s younger brother also goes through a rebirth. His rebirth involves going from a wealthy family to a fugitive gang. Because of this social change, Doctorow has mother?s younger brother go through a rebirth as well. This was in the form of him putting black makeup on his face to fit in with Coalhouse?s black gang. All four of these examples express Doctorow?s opinion that in order to go through a social change, one must go

Airline Customer Service Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Airline Customer Service - Research Paper Example With the many options that are in the travel market today, airline customer service has to be top notch in order to gain repeat customers. Needs and expectations of the customers Airline customer services have deteriorated in the recent years due to growth of the travel industry. There has been lack of amenities. The airlines use the 9/11 events as reason for their actions by justifying it as economical necessity. Further implementation of newer technology for security screening has added to the frustration of the customers. There is also the matter of the employee and customer relation. This is usually transmitted from the management level. The way they are treated by the management, which in turn is reflected in the employees’ behaviour towards the customers, affects the employees’ morale. Airline companies are constantly in competition with each other for every customer, but even then they are not making the necessary investment in the customer service department. It is not logical for the travel industry professionals to believe that the customers expect 100% efficiency in the airport services. Mostly customers expect some failure in service but at the same time they expect every effort from the Airline Companies to maximise service efficiency. Service failure can occur when the customer’s expectation regarding the level of service is not met. Customers’ expectations too vary. ... The idea was that if the Passenger Bill of Rights was passed through the Congress, then there could be a set of guidelines to perform service to the customers and there could be penalty where there will be non-compliance. Over the years, customers’ tolerance level on bad service has declined. Based on this the airport companies feel there is increased possibility of air rage among customers. A study has been made on customer’s perception towards air rage. There are certain physiological and physical factors over which the airlines have no control like flight delay owing to poor weather. In such case even though the customers perceive this as bad service they still do not have the propensity to air rage. The study has further shown that there is a decline in the customers’ expectations for high level of airport service. Many people feel that flight delays, overbooking and cases of lost baggage are common occurrences these days. If this is true then the customers h old these expectations while traveling long distance in flights. In such cases air rage occurrences get suppressed. Airline customers feel that they are entitled to certain privileges and if they are not granted, the customers are inclined towards more aggressive behavior. Dissatisfaction can arise in customers when there is bad service after good service. One way of moderating customers’ perception of bad service is to provide positive act after a poor service. If airline services can make up for any poor service then the customers may not approve of air rage. Reducing the customers’ negative attitudes towards airlines can create customer satisfaction. Hence the airline company should take every

Effect of the World Wars on Canada Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Effect of the World Wars on Canada - Essay Example Social Impacts of First and Second World War: Canada has been put into form by wars more than anyone could have realized it. The wars created the modern Canada, removing all kinds of traditions and memories of a â€Å"divided national identity†. Attitude of Canadians towards war was based on historical experience (Morton, 1999, pp. ix-x). The First World War had led to overwhelming changes in the social structure of Canada. The sacrifices and compromises that the average Canadians had to make called for new social order intending for emergence of peace. Groups of labor, women, farmers, churches and political parties all had developed their plans and programs for bringing in changes (Guest, 1997, pp. 49-50) Several social reforms were stimulated by the war. Pension issues, healthcare were some areas which were given special attention. In the field of social welfare, the profession of social work emerged out of liberal individualism. However keeping problems of divided jurisdiction at one side, the administrative problems aggravated by federal government’s failure to contribute to costs. Unemployment relief policy was largely developed at the municipal level, resulting in administrative procedures and policies differing from place to place with absence of standards in the level of aids (Guest, 1997, pp.50-85). Thus impacts of the war could be felt. As it can be understood that War and Society has a deep rooted connection and hence greater impacts are bound to occur on the societal issues when such World War affects or impacts countries individually (Keshen & Durflinger, 2007). However, as in the case of Canada, the effects have not been negative completely. The Second World War to o had a reflective effect on the social structure of Canada. The most rigorous crisis of unemployment got ended and the standards of living were raised for a large number of people in Canada. More significantly, the process of â€Å"industrialization† and â€Å"urbanization† progressed with greater rapidity. Production capacity of industries was stretched and superiority and intricacy of industrial processes also increased. The war had an overwhelming effect on the federal government as a whole. It became one of the largest employers of labor. The war saw several women responding to convene of the war and shedding their homemakers’ role to join the labor force. However with respect to Fordist estimates, the white male enjoyed better privileges than the women. Many women from Poland were brought into Canada and they represented the modern and educated women folk of tomorrow. Unemployment of the country decreased, and personal income and provincial income started increasing (Sangster, 2007, p. 472). As the war had ended with a sound financial form, even problems of agricultural surpluses also were removed. There was also a realization among the governments that social services were not only a luxury, but a crucial item in the smooth functioning during wartimes (Guest, 1997, pp.103-104; Francis, Jones, and Smith, 2007). Thus comparing the effects of the two world wars, it can be seen that the Second World War had bigger positive social impacts on the country. Political Impacts of First and Second World War: The political impact of the First World War formed or enlarged some divisions in the community. Before the year 1914, Canadians who resided in the western region of Canada had to consume products by paying much higher prices than those who were living in the country’s central and eastern regions. Price gaps also existed in the provinces that were existent for long times. By the year 1920s, the western and the eastern regions had div ided in terms of prices. According to sources, inflation was prevailing during and after the war, which led to high price ranges on consumable

Basic hazardous waste management (Blackman, 2001) Essay

Basic hazardous waste management (Blackman, 2001) - Essay Example The management helps in safe handling and proper disposal of the waste products. Spit cups are containers used to spit on. They are of different models and types and thus while being collected to be disposed they require specific selections (Blackman, 2001). Those involved in collecting the spit cuts should wear protective clothing’s since the materials are not safe to be collected with bare hands. Differentiate the different makes and materials used to make the spit cups. Check if the material is extremely hazardous from the list of the known and extremely hazardous materials. If not in the list proceed to the next step. If material found extremely hazardous, it should be disposed, as such waste and should not be rinsed. The liquid hazardous material in the next stage should be empty, and no liquid should drain from it. Spit cans fail to qualify as empty. Label the waste with hazardous waste tags and a request for collection to hazardous waste collection team follow (Blackman, 2001). The environment, health, and safety then collect the waste for disposal as hazardous waste. They will facilitate and dispose the material waste generated by UCSD

How to manage your time effectively Essay Example for Free

How to manage your time effectively Essay Ever come up short on schedule for something that should have been finished? On the off chance that you addressed yes, maybe you experienced difficulty dealing with your time legitimately. Time administration can show you how to take advantage of your time. Time management is one of the most important skills for university students. You should be very busy with your studies while, at the same time, balancing it with an on-campus social life. You have been admitted to the school of your choice, with hopes of meeting new friends and finding success in your classes. Getting into college is the easy part, but the hard part would be finishing it in one piece. College can be fun but at the same time frustrating, especially if your professors are being difficult or too strict. You may have thought some of these things when you first visited your university’s campus: †¢ I am overwhelmed. This is too much. †¢ The campus is so big, how will I ever find my way around? †¢ Okay, now I am a college student. Now, what happens? Surviving college is not just about how intelligent you are. It is not about how high you scored on standardized tests or admissions exams, and it is not entirely about classes and studying. People need to socialize; it’s part of their human nature. College does allow you to interact, but you must also study. It is important that you balance your time between studying and socializing. Some college students study themselves to the point of fatigue, but then some of them do not pass their classes due to stress. Other college students think of the university as one endless party. Some students do not appreciate the importance of socialization, and others do not value the importance of their education. You may be an intellect but it is not the only key to success in college. What is the secret to collegiate success? Time management is vital. College requires you to balance your life. You have to manage everything, such as class preparation, studying, campus organization activities, spending time with friends, eating healthy, exercising, and sleeping. Time management is not solely about studying, but also the attentiveness on relieving the stress of college life. Here are some ways that you can effectively manage your precious time: †¢ Learn to prioritize. Once you are focused on the goals you wish to achieve, you must prioritize the activities required to reach the goal. That will help you determine what particular task needs to be accomplished first and what tasks can be reserved for the future. To accomplish your goals more efficiently, try to mark deadlines on your calendar. †¢ Try to set goals. Know what you want to achieve and make those achievements your priority. That could be anything, whether you want to achieve the goal in a day, a week, a month, or a semester. Determine what your academic goal should be. Making goals could make it simpler for you to concentrate; instead of juggling subjects that you think are easy, it could be very stressful and often results in failing to achieve your goal. If you have more than one goal, it is wise to separate them into more manageable sections. Make a list of what you want to achieve for one week and for following weeks. †¢ Use extra time constructively. As an example, instead of doing nothing before class while waiting for the professor to arrive, try to think of the latest class assignment. If you are assigned to write an essay or research paper, use the time to think of a good topic for it. It is a fantastic way to portion your time into manageable pieces, and great time saver. It also allows you more time to spend time with your friends. When it comes to finishing tasks, sooner is always better than later. †¢ Time management planning is available for you to use to your advantage. Do not squander the resources and methods or available to you. The key to time management planning is carrying out the plans. Some college students get easily swayed by friends to attend a party while the student should be studying or otherwise in the process of achieving the established goals. Oftentimes, students think that they can put off the agenda until tomorrow. Doing so often results in too many things to do the next day, resulting in stress and frustration. You may have thought that each day is too short for you to finish all your work, and you may wish that there were more hours in a day. Those wishes are impossible. Therefore, the best course of action is to make use of what little time you do have.

Put An End To Poverty, Increase The Minimum Wage Essay -- Minimum Wage

It is not shocking to hear that tens of millions of Americans are living in poverty. Startling statistics about the poor are constantly being tossed around on television with images of run-down neighborhoods and malnourished children. The real surprise, however, is that millions of those in poverty are full-time, minimum wage earning workers. Many say one should feel morally obligated to help these people. President Barack Obama said it best in his February 2013 State of the Union address, â€Å"Let’s declare that in the wealthiest nation on earth, no one who works full time should have to live in poverty† (Lowrey n.p.). When minimum wage was created, President Roosevelt declared its purpose was to â€Å"maintain a minimum standard of living necessary for health, efficiency, and general well-being, without substantially curtailing employment† (Raising the Minimum Wage 1). Considering the poverty rate and poor living conditions present today, this vision is no longer being fulfilled. In order to create a nation with acceptable living conditions, lowered poverty rates and income inequality, and a stable economy, the minimum wage must be raised to a livable rate. Opponents of an increase argue that the economy would suffer, but the reality is quite the opposite. Economic conditions could be greatly improved with a rise in minimum wage, and that is exactly why this is an issue much larger than just the working class. Minimum wage affects all classes and has a large effect on the state of the economy. For these reasons, I propose that minimum wage should be increased to a rate that will adequately provide working families with the funds necessary to survive. Minimum wage was first enacted in 1938 to ensure that workers were maintaining a livable wage. This was mandated under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) of 1938, which also made sure that workers were free from exploitation and unsatisfactory workplace conditions. At the time of this legislation, minimum wage was set at $0.25 per hour; this equates to approximately $4 in 2013. Congress monitored the economy and, through the 60s and 70s, made increases to keep minimum wage at an appropriate level. Minimum wage reached its highest value in 1968 when it was raised to $1.60, or about $10.50 per hour today, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Since then, the wor... ...† New Republic 244.17 (2013): 12-14. Academic Search Premier. Web. 7 Nov. 2014. Lowrey, Annie. â€Å"Raising Minimum Wage Would Ease Income Gap but Carries Political Risks.† The New York Times. 13 Feb. 2013. Web. 4 Dec. 2014. â€Å"Minimum Wage Workers: Characteristics of Those Employed at or Below the Minimum Wage.† Congressional Digest 92.5 (2013): 11-32. Academic Search Premier. Web. 7 Nov. 2014. Plumer, Brad. â€Å"Here’s why 10.4 million American workers are still in poverty.† The Washington Post.12 April. 2013. Web. 5 Dec. 2014. Prince, Lew. â€Å"Should Congress Increase the Federal Minimum Wage and Index It To Inflation?† Congressional Digest 92.5 (2013): 22-26. Academic Search Premier. Web. 2 Nov. 2014. Sebelius, Kathleen. â€Å"Annual Update of the HHS Poverty Guidelines.† Federal Register. 14 Jan. 2013. Web. 4 Dec. 2014. Sullivan, Sean. â€Å"White House official: Obama supports Harkin/Miller bid to increase minimum wage.† The Washington Post.7 Nov. 2013. Web. 29 Nov. 2014. Warren, John Robert, and Caitlin Hamrock. "The Effect of Minimum Wage Rates on High School Completion." Social Forces 88.3 (2010): 1379-1392. Academic Search Premier. Web. 2 Nov. 2014.

The Battle of Bunker Hill Essay -- War, Power, Turmoil

Taking place in 1775, at the start of the Revolutionary War, the Battle of Bunker Hill was a needed victory early in the war to get the soldiers to believe in themselves. Many soldiers in the beginning of the war did not believe that the lowly colonists could defeat and declare independence from a superpower; Britain. Although outnumbered and with little confidence, the continental army stood their ground at the Battle of Bunker Hill and proved that they could win the war. The colonies were in a state of turmoil. They had to pay extravagant taxes, but they also were not counted as Britain’s â€Å"people.† The colonies tried to obtain peace with documents such as the Olive Branch Petition, but were refused many times. So after many attempts at peace and tolerating many unfair taxations plus having to house British soldiers without having a voice, the colonists rendezvous at the 2nd Continental Congress debated whether or not to attack the British Redcoats; they were sick and tired of having to tolerate this tyranny. In the 1st Continental Congress, the leaders of the colonies, minus Georgia, met at Carpenter’s Hall, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in response to the Intolerable Acts passed because of the Boston Tea Party. The outcome was for peace, and so, King George was offered an olive branch. King George refused the proposal and the colonists became angry. On April 19 of 1775, the colonists’ minutemen and the redcoats, whi ch were soldiers on the British side, clashed at Lexington and Concord. The first bullet fired was â€Å"The shot heard around the world.† The war had begun. On May 10, Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys seize Fort Ticonderoga. Then after the Second Continental Congress on the same day, George Washington, the new... ...nd and stood up to the full might of the British army and caused them severe casualties, the British finally acknowledged them and declared a full-out war. In the beginning, most colonists didn’t want to fight due to this battle, they were ready. They were ready to win the war and gain what they wanted the most; independence and a voice. Works Cited "Battle of Bunker Hill Begins." History.com. A&E Television Networks, n.d. Web. 17 Oct. 2013. . "11d. Bunker Hill." Bunker Hill [ushistory.org]. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Oct. 2013. . Deverell, William and Deborah Gray White. United States History. Orlando: Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 2006. Englar, Mary. The Battle of Bunker Hill. Minneapolis, MN: Compass Point, 2007.

The Blue Sword CHAPTER FOURTEEN

She woke up with a jolt, hearing her name, â€Å"Harry,† and for a moment she did not know where she was, but was convinced she was a prisoner. It was only Jack, standing in the doorway of the bedroom. She sighed and relaxed, conscious that much of her panic was caused by the fact that her right hand had closed only on bedclothes. Jack was looking at her quizzically; the white-knuckled right fist was not lost on him. â€Å"It's right here,† he said, nodding to his left, where Gonturan hung from a peg on the wall, next to silver-hiked Dalig and long Teksun. She unbent her fingers one by one, and with her left hand smoothed the bedding. Senay and Terim sat up and quietly began pulling on their boots, and Narknon lay down with an offended grunt over the pillow Harry had just vacated. There was food on the table again, and silent Ted stood to one side, poised and waiting to fill a plate or a cup. Harry came into the front room with her left arm close to her side and her hand across her stomach; Gonturan was hanging over her right shoulder. â€Å"Jack,† she said, â€Å"do you suppose I could borrow a – a belt from you? I seem to have †¦ lost mine.† Jack looked at her and then at the saffron- and blue-sashed waists of her two companions. â€Å"Lost?† he said, knowing something of Hill sashes. â€Å"Lost,† said Harry firmly. Ted put down his coffee-pot and went off to search for a leather Outlander belt. The sky was red when two dozen grim Outlanders set out beside three Hillfolk, one wearing a brass-buckled Outlander belt, heading north and west away from the Outlander fort. â€Å"We include one first-rate bugler,† said Jack cheerfully. â€Å"At least we'll know whether we're coming or going.† His men were dressed in the Homelander uniform of dull brown, with the red vertical stripe over the left breast that indicated Damarian duty. Harry permitted herself a twinge of nostalgia for her first sight of those uniforms, in the little clattering train, sitting opposite her brother. She asked, â€Å"Is it indiscreet, or merely putting a good face on it that you're wearing your proper uniforms?† Jack replied, staring toward the mountains, â€Å"It is that most of us have little useful clothing that is not of army issue.† He turned to her and smiled. â€Å"And besides, familiarity also breeds comfort. And I think, just now, we might do well to think of morale whenever we can.† They jogged steadily, with much jingling of tack from the fort horses; Harry had forgotten how noisy bits and chains and stirrups were, and felt that the Northerners would hear them coming from behind the mountains. They stopped just before dawn, in a valley at the beginning of the foothills. â€Å"Tonight,† said Senay, â€Å"we must go east into these hills, for there my village is.† Harry nodded. Jack looked uneasy. â€Å"Harry,† he said, â€Å"I'm not sure my lot will be very welcome in Senay's home town. If you like, we can ride a little farther along the way, so as not to lose time, and meet you near the pass – at the foot of the final trail to it, perhaps.† â€Å"Mm.† Harry explained this to Senay, who looked at Jack and then Harry with surprise. â€Å"We will all ride together,† she said. â€Å"We are comrades.† Harry did not need to translate. Jack smiled a little. â€Å"I wonder if Corlath would approve.† Terim had caught the king's name, and asked Harry what was said. â€Å"He would say the same, of course,† Terim replied. â€Å"It is true we are often enemies, but even when we are enemies, we are nearer each other than we can ever be to the Northerners, at least so long as only human blood runs in our veins. It is why this war is so bitter. We cannot occupy the same land. It has always been thus.† â€Å"We don't occupy the same land particularly well ourselves, however human we may be,† said Jack, and when Terim looked inquiringly at him, Jack put it in Hill-speech. Terim chewed his lip a minute. â€Å"Yes, we fight, and usually we do not love each other; but we are still the same. The Northerners are not. You will see. Where their feet step, it will be as if our land were sown with salt.† Jack looked at Harry, and Harry looked at Jack. â€Å"I am not sure of this,† she said. â€Å"I know the wizardry their folk produce is different than the Hillfolk's, and †¦ I know that any possibility of a part-blood Northerner is looked on with disgust and †¦ fear. You call someone half-North, thidik, and they may be forgiven for trying to kill you. Evidently,† and Harry's voice was very even, â€Å"Hill and Outlander blood is supposed to cross more gracefully.† As Jack stared at his horse's neck, Senay leaned toward him, and touched his horse's mane. â€Å"We are like enough, Jack Dedham; we all follow Harimad-sol.† Jack smiled. â€Å"We all follow Harimad-sol.† Harry said, â€Å"Jack, you are not following me. Don't you start.† Jack looked at her, still smiling; looked up, for his stolid gelding Draco was a hand and a half shorter than Sungold. But he did not answer. They rested most of the day and started off again an hour before sunset, following Senay's directions. The desert was behind them now, and so neither the sun nor the conspicuousness of traveling through empty country would force them to march only by night. It was near midnight when two men stepped into the path before them, and held up torches that suddenly burst into fire. Everyone blinked, and the Outlander horses tossed their heads. Then a voice behind one torch said sharply, â€Å"Who are you, who travel to the town of Shpardith?† Senay replied, â€Å"Thantow, have you forgotten me so quickly?† Thantow walked forward, holding his torch high, and Senay dismounted. â€Å"Senay you are,† he said, and those near behind could see him smile. â€Å"Your family will be pleased to see you return to them,† although his eyes wandered over them, and the jingling of bits was very loud in Harry's ears. â€Å"These are my comrades,† Senay said simply, and Thantow nodded. He muttered a few words to his companion, who turned and trotted off, the light of his torch bobbing dizzily till he disappeared around a bend of the rocky way. Harry dismounted, and Narknon reappeared from the darkness to sit under Sungold's belly and watch the goings-on, and make sure she wasn't being left out of anything interesting. Senay turned to Harry and introduced her reverently as â€Å"Harimad-sol,† whereupon Thantow swept her a very elegant Hill bow, which included the hand gestures of respect, and Harry tried not to shuffle her feet. They all moved forward again, and after a few minutes the narrow path opened up. It broadened slowly till it turned into a round patch of grass encircled by a white path that gleamed mysteriously in the torchlight. A little breeze wandered around them, and the smell was like roses. Thantow led them around the white path, and at the end of the circle opposite was a tall building of brown and grey stone, built into the mountainside, with moss and tiny, carefully cultivated trees bordering its roof. In the windows of this building lights were appearing. As they approached nearer, the wooden door crashed open, and a child in what was probably a nightgown came flying out, and unerringly sprang into Senay's arms. â€Å"You've been gone weeks and weeks,† the child said accusingly. â€Å"Yes, love, but I did tell you I would be,† said Senay, and the child buried her face in Senay's diaphragm and said, â€Å"I missed you.† Three other people emerged from the still-open door. First was a tall old man carrying a lantern, and limping on one leg; a younger woman strode behind him, then hurried forward to say, â€Å"Rilly, go inside.† Senay gently disengaged the reluctant Rilly, who backed up, one foot at a time, toward the house, not caring whom she might run into, till she bumped into the doorframe, fell through it, and disappeared from view. The young woman turned back to Senay, and embraced her long and silently. When the old man came up to them, he called Senay daughter. Harry blinked, for this man was certainly the local lord, the sola, of this place; but then, to be able to send his daughter so far to the laprun trials, perhaps it was not surprising. The third person was a young man, Senay's brother, for they both looked like their father; and he patted her arm awkwardly and said, â€Å"How was it?† He looked about sixteen. Senay smiled at him. â€Å"I was well defeated,† she said, in the traditional phrase, â€Å"and I wear my sash so,† and her fingers touched the torn rent. Harry sighed. â€Å"This is Harimad-sol,† Senay said, â€Å"who wielded the sword that cut my sash. She took the trials.† The old man turned to look at her sharply, and Harry met his gaze, wondering if he would comment on her obviously Outlander cast of features under the Hillman's hood; but he looked at her a moment, the lantern light shining in her eyes, and then bowed himself, and said, â€Å"My house is honored.† Only then did his eyes drop to the blue hilt just visible beyond the edge of her cloak. He turned to look at the rest of them, and his quiet face gave nothing away as he looked at two dozen Outlander cavalry standing uneasily at his threshold. â€Å"These are my comrades,† Senay said again, and her father nodded; and the woman, Senay's stepmother, said formally, â€Å"They are welcome.† Terim and Jack followed Harry and Senay into the house, while Jack's men and horses were led along the stone ridge of mountainside that the sola's house was built against, to a long low hall. â€Å"It is the village meeting-place,† Senay explained. â€Å"Many of our Hill towns have them, near the sola's house, for there we can all come together to talk or to celebrate; and when it is necessary we can shelter our friends and stable their horses.† Harry nodded slowly. â€Å"And if you must †¦ defend?† The old man smiled without humor. â€Å"There are caves, and twisting paths that lead pursuers to walls of stone or cliffs; and we can disappear if we must. You would not have come easily to this place if Senay had not guided you. The Hills are not good country for conquerors; there are too many holes in them.† â€Å"Yes,† murmured Jack. The room they entered was a large one; there were rugs on the floors and walls, and a long low table beside a long window, although it was closely curtained now. â€Å"Rilly,† said her mother firmly, â€Å"you may stay up for a short while, but you must put your robe and your boots on.† Rilly disappeared again. Servants entered the room bringing malak and small fat cakes, and Rilly reappeared and snuggled down by Senay, who put an arm around her. Harry waited, wondering if she would have to explain their errand; but Senay said with the same simplicity as she had explained the Outlanders as her comrades: â€Å"We go to stop the Northerners who come through the Madamer Gate. Who is there that can come with us?† Sixteen riders joined them in the morning when they set out once more, and Harry began to feel a trifle silly riding at the head of what was becoming at least a company if not an army. But it was obviously expected of her to ride first, chin in the air, staring forthrightly ahead. It's better than one mad Outlander on a Hill horse, she thought. What would I have done if Senay and Terim hadn't followed me, if Jack hadn't been at the fort? â€Å"Jack,† she said. â€Å"Mmm?† â€Å"Have you ever seen Ritger's Gap?† â€Å"No. Why?† â€Å"I am wondering, in a foresightful commanding sort of way, how ridiculous a few dozen of us strung out across it are going to look when – if – the Northerners do in fact decide to use it.† Jack grimaced. â€Å"Not very – silly, I mean. I believe it's a very narrow place; there's a valley spread out on the far side of it, but the gap itself we should be able to bottle up for some time, even the few of us.† Harry expelled her breath. â€Å"I do keep thinking how much of a fool's errand this is.† Jack smiled. â€Å"A noble and well-meaning fool's errand at least.† That night Harry dreamed: Ritger's Gap, the Madamer Gate, was a thin cleft of rock, no more than two-horse width; on the south side was a small rocky plateau, which then fell away abruptly into the forested mountainside. On the north was a wide bowl of valley with some dull brush and loose rock covering it; uneven footing, she thought in her dream, and no protection. Not a battlefield of choice. The valley led slowly up to the final narrow gap in the rock. She turned in her dream, and saw a little string of riders, the leader on a tall chestnut horse that gleamed like fire in the sun, striding up the path to the rocky plateau. She had seen these riders before, toiling up that mountainside. The familiarity of the vision comforted her; perhaps she had, after all, made the right choice when the path had forked. Perhaps she would justify Luthe's faith in her. And Corlath? She woke with a start. There was the greyness before true dawn in the sky, but she arose nonetheless and began to stir the fire. She noticed, with a flash of fear and anger, that her hand trembled; and then the fire burned up, and in its red heart she saw two faces. First was Corlath's. He stood quietly, staring at something she could not see; and he looked sad, and the sadness wrung her heart as though she were the cause of it. Then his face became the flames of a campfire again, but they flickered and rearranged themselves and became the face of Aerin, who smiled wryly, and it came into Harry's mind that perhaps Aerin had something to do with Senay and Terim following her, and Jack having sent Richard alone to argue for the General Mundy. Harry smiled a little, weakly, herself, at the face in the fire. Aerin looked away, as if something had caught her attention, and there was a blue glint at her side, which might have been Gonturan's hilt, or only the snapping of a small fire. â€Å"Do we ride out early, then?† said Jack, his voice rough with sleep. â€Å"Yes,† said Harry. â€Å"I don't like my dreams – and I †¦ suspect that I am supposed to pay attention to some of my dreams.† Their voices caused other sleepers to stir, and by the time the sun rose up over the crest of the Hills on their right, they had ridden some miles. â€Å"We will be there by tomorrow,† said Harry at their midday halt; and the grimness of her own voice surprised her. She was sitting on the ground as she spoke, and Narknon came to her, and wrapped herself around her shoulders and back like a fur cloak, as if to comfort her. There was a scuffle, suddenly, to one side, and Harry whipped around, one hand on Gonturan. A tall woman strode out from the trees, two of Jack's soldiers, looking tousled, slightly annoyed, and slightly afraid, standing on her either side. One of them held half a loaf of bread and the other a drawn dagger; but he held it like a bread knife. The woman was dressed in brown leather; there was a woven blue belt, sky blue, a color that comforted the eye, around her waist, and a dull crimson cap on her head; and she wore a quiver of arrows over her shoulder and carried loosely in her hand a long bow, with blue beads the color of her belt twisted just below the handgrip. â€Å"I am Kentarre,† she said. â€Å"Forgive the abruptness of my arrival.† â€Å"The filanon,† breathed Senay, standing stiffly at Harry's side. â€Å"The who?† muttered Harry; and then to the tall woman, â€Å"You have just proven to us that we need to post sentries, even to eat a mouthful of bread. We thought ourselves alone here, and our haste to our own ends has made us careless.† â€Å"Sentries, I think, would not have stopped me, and you see – † and Kentarre held up her bow – â€Å"I come in peace to you, for I cannot notch an arrow before any of your people might stop me.† She spoke Hill-speech, but her accent was curious, and the inflections were not predictable. Harry found she had to listen closely to be sure she heard correctly, for she was not that accustomed to the Hill tongue herself. Perhaps it was her attention that caught the unspoken â€Å"even† before â€Å"I cannot notch an arrow,† and she smiled faintly. Kentarre stood quite still, smiling in return. Narknon came to sit, in her watch-cat disguise, at Harry's feet. She gave Kentarre one of her long clear-eyed looks and then, without moving, began to purr. One mark in your favor, thought Harry, for Narknon's judgment is usually pretty good. â€Å"What do you wish of us?† she said. Kentarre said, â€Å"We have heard, even in our high Hilltops, where we talk often to the clouds but rarely to strangers, that she has come who carries the Lady Aerin's sword into battle once more; and we thought that we might seek her, for our mothers' mothers' mothers followed her long ago, when Gonturan first came to Damar in the hands of the wizard Luthe. So we made ready for a long journey; and then we found that Gonturan, and the sol who carries her, were coming to us; and so we waited. Three weeks we have waited, as we were told; and you are here; and we would pledge to you.† In the last sentence Kentarre's lofty tone left her, and she looked, quickly and anxiously, into Harry's face, and color rose to her cheekbones. Harry was doing some rapid calculations. Three weeks ago she had sat in a stone hall and eaten breakfast with a tall thin man who had told her that he had no clear-cut fortune for her, but that she should do what she felt she must do. Harry met Kentarre's gaze a little ruefully. â€Å"If you knew so well when we would be here, perhaps you know also how pitifully few we are and how heedless an errand we pursue. But we would welcome your help in holding the Northerners back for what time we may, if such is also your desire.† The last finger of the hand holding the bow gently spun one of the blue beads on its wire; and Harry thought that Kentarre was not so much older than herself. â€Å"Indeed, we do wish it. And if any of us remain afterward, we will follow you back to your king, whom we have not seen for generations, for in this thing perhaps all of what there is left of the old Damar must come together, if any of it is to survive.† Harry nodded, thinking that perhaps Kentarre's people would be convinced to go without her when the time came, for Corlath was likelier to be pleased to see them without his mutineer in their midst; but such thoughts were superfluous till they found out if any of their number would survive a meeting with the Northerners. Kentarre turned and stepped briskly back into the woods. â€Å"The filanon,† Senay murmured again. â€Å"The which?† Harry said. â€Å"Filanon,† she repeated. â€Å"People of the trees. They are archers like none else; it is said they speak to their arrows, which will turn corners or leap obstacles to please them. They are legends now; even my people, who live so near their forests, have believed that they no longer exist, even if the old tales are true, and once the filanon, with their blue-hung bows, did live high in the mountains where no one else went.† She paused a moment, and added, â€Å"Very rarely one of us has found one of the blue beads; they are thought to be lucky. My father has one that his father found when he was a little boy. He was wearing it the day the gursh – boar – gored him, and he said that it would have had him in the belly, and killed him, if the blue bead had not turned the beast at the last.† Jack said, â€Å"Tell me, Captain, do you always take in the loose wanderers you find in the woods if they offer to fall in with you?† Harry smiled. â€Å"Only when they tell stories that I like. Three weeks ago I was talking to a †¦ wise man who told me that †¦ things would happen to me. I am inclined to believe that this is one of them. Besides, Narknon likes her.† Jack nodded. â€Å"I prefer to believe you. Although I have my doubts about your tabby's value as a judge of character.† He blinked at her once or twice. â€Å"You're different, you know, than you were when you still lived with us Outlanders. Something deeper than the sunburn.† He said this, knowing its truth, curious to see its effect upon the young woman he had once known, had once watched staring at the Darian desert. Harry looked at him, and Jack was sure she knew exactly what was passing through his mind. â€Å"I am different. But the difference is a something riding me as I ride Sungold.† She looked wry. Jack chuckled. â€Å"My dear, you are merely learning about command responsibility. If you were mine, I'd promote you.† They finished their noon meal without seeing anything more of Kentarre; but as they mounted, many of them looking nervously around for more tall archers to burst from the bushes upon them, the materialization suddenly took place. Kentarre stood before Harry with a dark-haired man at her elbow; he carried a bow too, but among the blue beads at its grip was one apple-green one; and his tunic was dun-colored. Then Harry without turning her head saw that the path was lined with archers; she nodded blandly as if she had expected them to appear like this – which in fact she rather had – and moved Tsornin off. Kentarre and the man fell in with her and Jack and Senay and Terim, and the rest of the archers followed after the last horses had passed. Kentarre walked with as free and swinging a pace as Sungold. There were about a hundred of her new troop, Harry found, when they stopped again. With them were about twenty hunting-cats: bigger-boned, with broader flatter skulls than Narknon's, and more variety of color than Harry had seen among Corlath's beasts. Narknon herself kept carefully at Harry's heels: even the indomitable Narknon seemed to feel discretion was the better part of valor when faced with twenty of her own kind, and each of them a third larger than herself. Harry and her company found a little rock bowl, sheltered from the northwest wind that had begun to blow that afternoon, and all of them clustered in it, around several small fires. The archers unstrung their bows and murmured to or over their arrows, and the others watched them surreptitiously. Bows seemed as outlandish to the sword-bearers as feathers on one of their horses. Jack's men felt absently for revolvers that weren't on their hips. At dawn they set off again, and now Harry felt that she rode into her dream; perhaps she would wake up yet and find herself in the king's tent, with unknown words on her lips and Corlath's hands on her shoulders, and pity in his eyes. They rode, the archers striding long-legged behind them, up a narrow trail into the mountain peaks; up the dark unwelcoming slopes to the border of the North. The cold thin air bit at their throats, and the sun was seen as scattered falls of light through the leaves. The ground underfoot was shaly, but Tsornin never stumbled; his ears were hard forward and his feet were set firmly. Harry tapped her fingernail on the big blue stone in the hilt of Gonturan and thought of a song she'd sung as a child; the tune fluttered through her mind, but she couldn't quite catch the words. It made her feel isolated, as though her childhood hadn't really happened – or at least hadn't happened as she remembered it. Perhaps she'd always lived in the Hills; she'd se en Sungold foaled, and she had been the one first to put a saddle on his young back, and had trained him to rear and strike as a warhorse. Her stomach felt funny. They reached Ritger's Gap, the Madamer Gate, before sunset, spilling out across the little plateau that lay behind it, with trees at its back and only bare rock rising around it to the mountaintop, a few bowlengths above them. There was a long shallow cave to one side, where the mountain peak bent back on itself, and low trees protected much of the face of it. â€Å"We'll sleep in something resembling shelter tonight,† said Jack cheerfully. â€Å"At least as long as the wind doesn't veer around and decide to spit at us from the south.† Harry was listening to the northern breeze; it sneered at her. â€Å"It won't,† she said. Jack cocked an eyebrow at her, but she said no more about it. The plateau was loud with the panting of men and horses; they had hurried to arrive, just as her dream had told her they would, or must; the last hour, men and horses had had to scramble up, side by side. Harry leaned against Sungold's shoulder, grateful for the animal solidity of him; he turned his head to chew gently on her sleeve till she petted him. After a minute of staring around her she slowly followed Narknon as the cat paced up to the Gap itself and stared into the valley beyond. Even Narknon seemed subdued, but perhaps it was the day's hard miles. Two riders abreast could pass the narrow space in the rock, perhaps, but their knees would touch. On this side of the Gap, the plateau sloped up to the shoulders of the narrow cleft and down the other side, where men and clever-footed horses might climb. Harry stared through, and became conscious of Sungold's warm breath on the back of her neck. Narknon leaped down from her perch beside the cleft, turned her back on it, and began to wash. Harry stood in the Gap itself, and leaned against the spot Narknon had vacated. A pebbly slope dropped down away from her to a scrub-covered valley between the mountain's arms; there was a lower valley wall on the far side, but it fell away into foothills. Harry felt her sight reaching away, into the harsh plain beyond the dun-colored valley and scattering of low sharp hills; and on the edge of the plain she saw a haze that eddied and drifted, like a tide coming in, exploring the shore before it, reaching out to stroke the little hills before it swe pt over them. Harry turned and went back to her company. She said to no one in particular, â€Å"They will be here tomorrow.† It was a silent camp that night; everyone seemed almost superstitiously afraid to polish a dagger one last time in too obvious a fashion; much quiet checking of equipment went on, but it was a shadowy sort of motion. No one met another's eyes and there was no bright ring of metal on metal. Even footfalls were muffled. Jack's bay gelding Draco and Harry's Sungold had become friends over the days of carrying their riders side by side. The Outlander horses were always set out on a picket line while the Hill horses wandered where they would, never far from the human campsite; and Sungold and Draco stood nose to nose often, murmuring to each other perhaps about the weather and the footing of the day past; perhaps about the eccentricities and preoccupations of their riders. Tonight they stood near together with their heads facing the same way – watching us, Harry thought, looking back at them; or watching that awful northwest wind. Sungold nicked one ear back, then forward again, and stamped. Draco turned his head to blow thoughtfully at his companion, and then they both settled down for a nap, one hind leg slack, their eyes dim and unfocused. Harry watched enviously. The north wind gibbered. â€Å"Draco, who knows almost as much about battles as I do, has told young Sungold that he should get a good night's sleep. I, world-weary warrior that I am – that's hard to say after too many hours in the saddle – am about to say the same thing to you, my brilliant young Captain.† Harry sighed. â€Å"Do stop calling me Captain. Carrying Gonturan is enough; and she's not your legend.† â€Å"You'll get used to it, Captain,† said Jack. â€Å"Would you deny me one small amusement? Don't answer that. Go to sleep.† â€Å"Perhaps if I could stand on three legs and let my eyes glaze over, it would help,† she replied. â€Å"I do not feel like sleeping and I †¦ dread dreaming.† â€Å"Hmm,† said Jack. â€Å"Even those of us who aren't compelled to believe in what we dream aren't happy about dreams the night before a battle, but that's †¦ inevitable.† Harry nodded, then got up to unroll her blanket and dutifully laid herself down on it. Narknon couldn't settle either; she paced around the fire, wandered over to touch noses with Sungold, returned, lay down, paced some more. â€Å"I'll send Kentarre and her people into the woods on either side of the Gap, looking down on the valley; we can all mob together here – and see what comes.† â€Å"Splendid,† said Jack from his blanket, as he pulled off his boots. â€Å"I couldn't arrange it better myself.† Harry gave a breathless little laugh. â€Å"There isn't much to be organized, my wise friend. Even I know that.† Jack nodded. â€Å"You could send us through that crack in the rock two at a time, to get cut in pieces; I would then object. But you aren't going to. Go to sleep, General.† Harry grunted. Harry's eyes stayed open, and saw the cloud come across the moon, and heard the whine of the north wind pick up as the clouds strangled the moonlight. She heard the stamp of a horse from the picket line, and an indeterminate mumble from an uneasy sleeper; and Narknon, who had finally decided to make the best of it by going to sleep, snored faintly with her head on Harry's breast. And beyond these things she heard †¦ other things. She had set no sentries, for she knew, as she knew the Northerners would face them tomorrow, that they were not necessary. It was a small piece of good fortune that every one of her small company might have the chance of sleep the night before the battle, and it would be foolish not to accept any good fortune she was offered. But as she lay awake and solitary she heard the stamp of hooves not shod with iron, the shifting of the bulk of riding-animals that were not horses, the sleeping snores of riders that were not human. Then her mind drifted for a few almost peaceful minutes; but she heard a rustle, and as her drowsy mind slowly recognized the rustle as a tent flap closing she heard Corlath's voice say sharply, â€Å"Tomorrow.† She sat up in shock; Narknon slithered off her shoulder and rearranged herself on the ground. Around her were the small dead-looking heaps of her friends and followers, the red embers of campfires, the absolute blackness of the curve of rock and the shifting blackness that was the edge of the trees. She turned her head and could faintly see the silhouette of horse legs, and she heard the ring of iron on a kicked rock. Jack was breathing deeply; his face was turned away from the dying fire glow, and she could not see his expression; she even wondered if he were feigning sleep as a good example for her. She looked at Narknon, stretched out beside her; her head was now over Harry's knees. There was no doubt that she was sincerely asleep. Her whiskers twitched, and she muttered low in her throat. Harry lay down again. The wind sniggered around the rocks, but overhead it flung itself, laughing shrilly, through the mountains, into the quiet plains of Damar, bearing with it the inhuman whispers and moans of the Northern army. Harry shivered. A finger of breeze touched her cheek and she recoiled; it ran over her shoulder and disappeared. She pulled the blanket over her face. She must have slept, for when she pushed the blanket away from her face again the mountain was edged with dawn and her mouth tasted sticky. She sat up. Narknon was still asleep. Jack's eyes were open. He was staring grimly at nothing; she watched his eyes pull into focus to look at her. He sat up, saying nothing, and put his elbows on his knees, and rubbed his hands over the grey stubble of hair on his head. Other bodies were stirring. There was a small spring-fed pool in a fist of rock where the front of the shallow cave was sheltered by the trees; one of Jack's men filled a tin at it and brought it to one of Kentarre's archers, who had produced a slender tongue of flame from last night's ashes. Harry stared dreamily at the little fire till something black came between her and it, which proved to be Jack, kneeling down at their own bed of embers. Harry got up, kicking her blankets off, and went to fetch another tin of water. Jack smiled at her when she returned. She tried to smile back; she wasn't sure how successful she was. While they waited for the water to boil, Harry walked to the Madamer Gate and stared through it. The top of her head stood above the rock cleft, and the north wind howled down on her; her scalp felt tight and cold. The haze still hung where she had seen it the evening before, at the beginning of the foothills; but this morning she felt she could see flashes of color and motion within it. The color was the color of fear. The wind chewed into her and she went back to the cave. They were all sitting, hunkered down around their tiny fires; and they were all watching her; or all but Jack, who was shaving. She admired the steadiness of his hand as he bent over a ragged bit of mirror propped against a rock on the ground. She stopped just before the shadow of the cave began. â€Å"Stay out of the wind while you can,† she said. â€Å"It's not †¦ the right sort of wind.† Terim looked up, as if he could see the shape of the wind itself, and not only the way it shook the leaves and bounced pebbles from the rockfaces. â€Å"The Northerners send their wind to chill us,† he said. Harry remembered the creeping touch on her face the night before. â€Å"Yes,† she said slowly. â€Å"To chill us – but I think also to discover us. I prefer that we tell it no more than we must.† At midmorning Harry saddled Sungold, unrolled the tops of her boots and lashed them to her thighs, settled her leather vest with particular care across her shoulders, and Gonturan against her hip. Shield and iron-bound helm hung ready from the front of the saddle; Sungold turned to look at her. The saddle looked strange, unbalanced, without the bulky knapsacks strapped around it. Draco chewed his bit, and Tsornin pointed an ear briefly at the sound. Shortly before noon Harry sent Kentarre and her archers and their big soft-footed cats out beyond the Gate, into the last trees on the mountains' shoulders rising above the haggard valley. Harry watched anxiously, for the covering of stunted trees was not good, and she felt that every blue bead would be visible; but the archers disappeared as if they were no more than thrown pebbles. Harry was sure that whatever approached them knew the Gate was held against them – knew and smiled at the tale the wind brought; but she could do no more. Jack saw them for the first time just before Kentarre led her archers away. He was staring through a narrow black spyglass; his hands were as steady as they had been with his razor. Harry could keep hers from chafing and plucking at each other only by thinking about it constantly; she clamped them on her sword belt. They felt damp. Harry had been watching those coming toward them all morning and it took her a moment to understand Jack's sudden grunt of comprehension. The fog had flowed into the mouth of the valley, and now it resolved itself into a mass of dark moving shapes which still seemed to cast more shadow than they should, for they were very near. â€Å"Mount,† said Harry. The wind chuckled wildly as it tore at their hair, and pinged madly off metal as helms were settled in place, and dragged at the fingers of gloves, and sword tips, and horse tails. Sungold stood with his nose in the Gate; Draco stood at Harry's knee, stolidly, ears pricked. Harry could feel Tsornin tremble, but it was impatience; and she bit her lip in shame for herself and pride for her horse. Terim's horse tossed its head anxiously and switched its tail; Terim's face beneath the helm was unreadable. Narknon reappeared from wherever she had spent the morning, licking her chops; she hadn't been satisfied with porridge this morning. She polished her whiskers carefully, then came to the head of the column, to sit between Tsornin and Draco. â€Å"Narknon, my dear,† said Harry, â€Å"why don't you go sleep by the fire for now, till †¦ till we come back? This isn't your sort of hunting.† Narknon looked up at her, perfectly aware that she was being addressed; then she lowered her gaze again and stared out across the valley. â€Å"The filanon's cats went with them,† said Jack. â€Å"You'll hurt her feelings if you try to leave her behind.† Harry said fiercely, â€Å"This is not the time to make silly jokes.† â€Å"On the contrary, Captain,† replied Jack. â€Å"This is exactly the time.† Harry swallowed and looked out at the Northerners again. At the front of the army before them was a rider on a white horse. The horse was magnificent, as tall as Sungold, with the same proud head and high tail; red ribbons fluttered from its forelock and crest. His reins were golden glints against its snowy neck; and the rider's heavy sword was a great golden bar at his side. Beside him a dark rider on a mud-colored beast carried a banner: white, with a red bird on it, a bird of prey with a curved beak. â€Å"No army can move that fast,† said Jack. â€Å"No,† said Harry. The white horse screamed and Sungold answered, rearing; Harry punched his neck with a closed fist, and he settled back, but his haunches were tensed under him, waiting to hurl them forward. â€Å"Very well,† said Harry. â€Å"We will go to meet them now.† A rain of arrows fell from the sky into the dark sea at their feet, and some of the dark many-shadowed shapes fell, and weird cries drifted up to the watchers at the Gate. â€Å"At least arrows pierce them,† Harry heard Terim say. Sungold's ears lay flat to his head, and he pranced where he stood. Harry could hear the horses moving up close behind her; Senay and Terim stood with their horses' front feet half up the rock slope on either side of the Gap. â€Å"Jack,† said Harry. â€Å"You wait here; we'll come back when we're ready for a breather, and you can argue with them for a while.† â€Å"As you say, Captain,† said Jack. And he whispered, â€Å"Good luck, Harimad-sol.† Harry gestured to Jack's trumpeter, and they sallied out under a banner of bright brass notes, for they carried no other. Sungold leaped down the slope, and the white stallion reared and neighed; his rider turned him and galloped to one side, and the lightless mass of the army surged up the sides of the valley. War-cries rang in harsh throats, twisted by ill-shaped tongues. The ground before the Gate was in Harry's favor, for there was little room to maneuver, and no room for the overwhelming numbers of the Northerners to sweep around their small adversaries and crush them. Each side must fight on a narrow front; it was a question merely of how long the Hillfolk had the strength to fight, for there were always replacements for any Northerner who fell or grew weary. Harry pulled Gonturan from her scabbard and swung her once, shrilling through the air, splitting the northern wind into fragments that fell, crying, under Sungold's feet. â€Å"Gonturan!† yelled Terim. â€Å"Harimad-sol and Gonturan!† called Senay, not to be outdone; and then the Hillfolk met the Northerners. Sungold plunged and struck with teeth and hooves as Gonturan cut and thrust; and Harry felt the yellow wave rising in her mind and was glad of it, for her intellect was of little use, and that the wrong sort, just now; and she noticed that Gonturan was wet with blood, but that the blood seemed an odd color. Clouds massed to cover the sun, but they kept breaking up and drifting away again, and the Hillfolk fought more strongly for this proof that the black army was not all-powerful. Harry was dimly aware that Draco's head was at her knee again, and there was a momentary lull when her right arm could drop and her small shield rest heavily on her leg, and she said, â€Å"Where did you come from?† â€Å"It looked as if you never would come back and give us a chance, and we got tired of waiting,† said Jack; and then the battle swelled around them again, and the clank of metal and the bash of blows rose up and smothered them. There was a smear of blood along Sungold's neck, and as he tossed his head, foam flew backward and ran down Harry's forearm. Those they fought were hard to see clearly, even from as close as a sword stroke. Harry saw better than most and still she could not say why she was sure that those she faced were not all human. Some glittering eyes and swift arms were human enough; but others seemed to swing from curiously jointed shoulders and hips, and the eyes were set oddly in odd-shaped skulls – although perhaps the skulls were all right, and the helms were deliberately misshapen. Some of the horses too were true horses; but some had hides that sparkled like scales, and feet that hit the ground unlike hooves, and teeth that were pointed like a dog's. Minutes passed and Gonturan had a life of her own; and the next time Harry saw Jack, Draco crashed into them from one side and Jack's stirrup caught at her ankle; and he yelled, â€Å"You might think of retiring for a few minutes, Captain; we've upset them, and we deserve it.† Harry looked around puzzled, but it was true; her handful had driven the dark army back; they were halfway down the valley again. â€Å"Oh,† she said. â€Å"Umm. Yes.† â€Å"Back!† shouted Jack, standing in his stirrups. â€Å"Back to the Gap!† The trumpeter picked it up, for he had followed Jack when the colonel struggled to reach Harry, as he had followed Colonel Dedham often before in years and battles past; and never yet had he received a wound that hindered his playing, although the border skirmishes he was acquainted with had little prepared him for this day. He was tired and bloody now, and it took him a moment to fill his lungs to make his trumpet speak; but then the notes flew out again, over the heads of the combatants, and Harry's company collected themselves to fall back to the Gap. Harry saw Senay near at hand, and then the others, one at a time, turning, half aware, in their saddles, hearing the notes of the retreat; some picking up the cry and throwing it farther; the filanon had a long clear singing note that they passed among themselves. As the Hill and Outlander horses wheeled to gallop away and Harry prepared to fol low them, suddenly the white stallion was before her. This one almost looked like a real horse, she thought; but its teeth were bared, and they were the sharp curved fangs of a flesh-eater. Its bit came to a sharp point on each side of its jaw, so it could slash an opposing horse with a sideways twist of its head. Its long ears were flat to its skull, and its blue eyes rolled. It reared and screamed its stallion scream again, and Sungold answered; but when her horse's front feet hit the earth again, he leaped forward; and Harry saw the other stallion's rider sweep his golden sword up in challenge. Gonturan glittered in the sunlight; but when they met, the blow was of more than physical strength. The other rider's sword drew no blood, but Harry reeled in her saddle; the noise the sword had made against her fresh-stained and pitted shield sent waves of fear through her, and her yellow war-rage went grey and dim. Sungold reared and shrieked; the white stallion was not quick enough, and when the chestnut swerved away there was blood on the other's neck and shoulder and rein. This seemed to drive the white horse mad, and it came again; Harry heard through the deadening thunder in her ears that the other rider laughed. She raised her eyes to where his should be, under his blazing white helm, and saw spots of red fire; below that, teeth were bared in a grin in a jaw that might once have been human. The power that washed over that face, that rolled down the arms and into the sword and shield, was that of demonkind, and Harry knew she was no match for this one, and in spite of the heat of Gonturan in her hand her heart was cold with fear. The two stallions reared again, and reached out to tear each other; the white stallion's neck was now ribboned with blood, like the real ribbons he wore in his mane. Harry raised her sword arm, and felt the shock of the answer; the hilts of the swords rang together, and sparks flew from the crash, and it seemed that smoke rose from them and blinded her. The other rider's hot breath was in her face. His lips parted and she sa w his tongue; it was scarlet, and looked more like fire than living flesh. Her arm was numb. The contact lasted only a moment; Sungold wrenched himself and his rider free, and Harry's legs held her on his back from habit, while she struggled only not to drop her sword. Sungold bit the white stallion just above the tail, and the horse kicked; too late, for Sungold again twisted out of the way and bit him again on the flank, and the blood flowed from the long wicked gash. The white stallion threw up his head and lunged forward, away from his enemy. Harry heard the rider laugh again, although he made no attempt to rein his horse around for another attack; an attack that Harry knew would be her last defense. He could wait. He knew the strength of his army and the size of the force that chose to try and block it, for the wind he sent had told him. But it was then, as the white stallion ran from them, and the banner-bearer turned to follow its leader, that from the black ground-swell a long stripy body rose and flung itself snarling at the mud-colored beast. Sungold was leaping forward again before Harry was aware of her legs closing around him; for it was Narknon. The cat slashed at the rider, and dropped away again, and then sprang at the beast's face and seized its nose in her teeth; purple blood welled out and poured down Narknon's matted sides. The beast reared, trying to tear at the cat with its clawed forefeet, but Narknon twisted in mid-air. The beast came to the ground again as its rider made a sword cut at the cat, but it missed, for Gonturan got in its way. And the beast reared up once more, mad with pain, and flung itself over backward; and neither beast nor rider rose again, and the red-and-white banner was trampled underfoot.