They were weary and depressed with the loneliness and uncertainty of their position, and were almost longing for something to happen that would push forward the lagging wheels of destiny.
A long fanfare of trumpets, a roll of drums, a stirring march of warlike melody, startled them out of the lethargic tedium of exhausted hopes and fears.

"It is Santa Anna!" said Antonia; and though they durst not stand up, they drew closer to the balustrade and watched for the approaching army.

Is there any woman who can resist that nameless emotion which both fires and rends the heart in the presence of great military movements?
Antonia was still and speechless, and white as death.

Isabel watched with gleaming eyes and set lips.

The Senora's excitement was unmistakably that of exultant national pride.
Santa Anna and his staff-officers were in front.