"We have no earthly chance of doing so," said Ned, "and I think,
Colonel, that your own force will have a hard fight to get back inside
the mission."
The truth of Ned's words was soon evident to everyone. It was only the
deadly Texan rifles that kept the Mexican cavalry from galloping over
them and crushing them at once. The Mexican fire itself, coming from
muskets of shorter range, did little damage. Yet the Texans were
compelled to load and pull trigger very fast, as they retreated slowly
upon the mission.
At last they reached the great door and began to pass rapidly inside.
Now the Mexicans pressed closer, firing heavy volleys.
A score of the best Texan marksmen whirled and sent their bullets at the
pursuing Mexicans with such good aim that a dozen saddles were emptied,
and the whole force reeled back. Then all the Texans darted inside, and
the great door was closed and barricaded. Many of the men sank down,
breathless from their exertions, regardless of the Mexican bullets that
were pattering upon the church. Ward leaned against the wall, and wiped
the perspiration from his face.
"My God!" he exclaimed. "What has become of King?"
There was no answer. The Mexicans ceased to fire and shout, and
retreated toward the wood.
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