"We might send messengers to the towns further east," said Travis, "and
at least get a few men here in time."
"We need a good many," said Bowie. "According to Mr. Crockett the
Mexican army is large, and the population here is unfriendly."
"That is so," said Travis, "and we have women and children of our own to
protect."
It was when he spoke the last words that they heard the clatter of hoofs
and saw Ned dashing down the narrow street toward the Main Plaza. They
heard him trying to shout, but his voice was now so hoarse that he could
not be understood.
But Ned, though growing weaker fast, knew two of the men. He could never
forget the fair-haired Bowie nor the swarthy Crockett, and he galloped
straight toward them. Then he pulled up his horse and half fell, half
leaped to the ground. Holding by Old Jack's mane he pulled himself into
an erect position. He was a singular sight The water still fell from his
wet hair and dripped from his clothing. His face was plastered with mud.
"Santa Anna's army, five thousand strong, is not two miles away!" he
said. "I tell you because I have seen it!"
"Good God!" cried Bowie. "It's the boy, Ned Fulton. I know him well.
What he says must be truth.
Pages:
158
159
160
161
162
163
164
165
166
167
168
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176
177
178
179
180
181
182