We are floundering in the after-birth of the Revolution, which was an abortion, a failure, a misfire, "whatever they say."
"The George Sand-Gustave Flaubert Letters"
George Sand, Gustave Flaubert Translated by A.L. McKensie
It's a misfire, though; for just then she's turned to finish some remark to a fat old sport with flat ears and bags under his eyes that's followin' close behind.
"On With Torchy"
Sewell Ford
The discharge delayed so long that Bobby looked to see if a misfire had occurred; but when the ball reached the exact top of its swing, Mr. Kincaid broke it.
"The Adventures of Bobby Orde"
Stewart Edward White