He thought alone of the Texans, who were now displaying the greatest energy.

In the face of the imminent and deadly peril Travis, Crockett, Bowie and the others were cool and were acting with rapidity.

The order was swiftly given to cross to the Alamo, the old mission built like a fortress, and the Texans were gathering in a body.

Ned saw a young lieutenant named Dickinson catch up his wife and child on a horse, and join the group of men.

All the Texans had their long rifles, and there were also cannon.
As Ned took his place with the others a kindly hand fell upon his shoulder and a voice spoke in his ear.
"I was going to send for you, Ned," said Bowie, "but you've come.
Perhaps it would have been better for you, though, if you had been left in San Antonio." "Oh, no, Mr.Bowie!" cried Ned.