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that the army of Santa Anna was on the Texan side of the Rio Grande, but
it had seemed impossible to rouse the Texans to a full sense of the
impending danger. Many remained at their homes following their usu
vocations. Mr. Austin was away in the states trying to raise money.
Dissensions were numerous in the councils of the new government, and the
leaders could agree upon nothing.

Travis, Bowie and Crockett were aware of the great danger, but even
they did not believe it was so near. Nevertheless they were full of
anxiety. Crockett, just come to Texas, took no command and sought to
keep in the background, but he was too famous and experienced a man not
to be taken at once by Travis and Bowie into their councils. They were
discussing now the possibility of getting help.

"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."

"It is every word truth!" croaked Ned. "I was pursued by their vanguard!
My horse swam the river with me! Up! Up! for Texas!"

Then he fainted dead away. Bowie seized him in his powerful arms and
carried him into one of the houses occupied by the Texans, where men
stripped him of his wet clothing and gave him restoratives. But Bowie
himself hurried out into the Main Plaza. He had the most unlimited
confidence in Ned's word and so had Crockett. They and Tra