d away. I think, from your voice, you are an Americano. I am
friendly to your people--you will not molest me, and I will not harm
you."

"My friend, I rather doubt your word. These are stormy times for a man
to venture out in search of cattle, so far from San Antonio.".

"I could tell you a piece of news that would satisfy you that I run
less risk than yourself. But, stranger, it's not civil to doubt a
man's word, and make him an enemy whether he will or not."

"I am willing to receive your proffered proof of sincerity, and hope
to find you unlike your fickle nation. Come, tell the news which
sanctions this long ramble of yours. These are dark days, and it
becomes every man to look well to his own safety, and likewise watch
his neighbor's movements."

"I will do you a kindness, stranger; turn your horse's head, and let
moonrise find you where you drank water at noon. San Antonio is no
place for Americans now. Santa Anna has taken the Alamo; and every
one of your people lie low. Not one was spared to carry the tale to
Austin--no, not one!"

Dr. Bryant groaned in spirit, and his extended arm sunk to his side.

"Oh God! hast thou forsaken us? Surely thou wilt yet listen to the
voice of justice and liberty," he murmured to himself, and there was a
pause.

"How long since the ill-fated Alamo fell?" he inquired.

"Five days ago. Hintzilopotchli came down and held his bloody feast,
and cut off many brave men."

"By what force was the fortress assaulted?"

"Seven thousand men, led by the great and victorious Santa Anna. Not
long lasted the strife: we were too many for your people, and the
fight was short."

"And was our noble Travis slaughtered with his brave band?"

"He was too brave to live. Think you he would survive his comrades?
No! he fell first, and then all followed."

"Will Santa Anna march to Austin, think you; or, content with victory,
remain in your town?"

"Truly you give me credit for few brains and a woman's tongue. I have
told you one true tale, can you expect another from a fickle Mexican?
I tell you now, stranger, push me not too closely, if you would hear
what is good for you."

"Your voice sounds strangely familiar; yet I cannot recognize it
sufficiently to know with whom I am speaking. If, as you declare,
friendly to our people, you will not object to giving your name.
Perhaps I have known you in San Antonio."

"We Mexicans can tell a friend across the prairie--but no matter. I am
thin