If the Mexican batteries were brought much closer, and were protected by earthworks and other fortifications, the Alamo would be much less defensible.

It was decided to send another messenger for help, and Ned saw Bonham drop over the rear wall and slip away in the darkness.

He was to go to Goliad, where Fannin had 300 men and four guns, and bring them in haste.
When Bonham was gone Ned returned to his place on the wall.

For hours he heard the noises without, the distant sound of voices, the heavy clank of metal against metal, and he knew full well that Santa Anna was planting his batteries.

At last he went to his place in the long room of the hospital and slept.
When dawn came he sprang up and rushed to the wall.