He wore a sombrero in the Mexican fashion, and flung over his shoulders was a great serape which he had found most useful in the winter.

With his perfect knowledge of Spanish and its Mexican variants he believed that if surprised he could pass as a Mexican, particularly in the night and among so many.
The arroyo led straight down toward the plain upon which the Mexicans were encamped, and when he emerged from it he saw that the fires which at a distance looked like one continuous blaze were scores in number.
Many of them were built of buffalo chips and others of light wood that burned fast.

Sentinels were posted here and there, but they kept little watch.

Why should they?
Here was a great Mexican army, and there was certainly no foe amounting to more than a few men within a hundred miles.
Ned's heart sank as he beheld the evident extent of the Mexican array.
The little Texan force left in the field could be no match for such an army as this.
Nevertheless, his resolution to go through the Mexican camp hardened.

If he came back with a true and detailed tale of their numbers the Texans must believe and prepare.