For their birth-rights--so will we!"

CAMPBELL.


The issue of the engagement of the 8th October placed Goliad, with
valuable munitions, in the hands of the Texans. Many and joyous
acclamations rose from their camp, hope beamed on every face, and
sanguine expectations were entertained of a speedy termination of the
conflict. Slowly the little band proceeded toward Bexar, receiving
daily accessions from headquarters, and girding themselves for a
desperate struggle. General Cos, fully appreciating the importance
of the post he held, made active preparation for its defense, never
doubting, however, that the strong fortifications of the Alamo would
prove impregnable to assailants so feeble numerically. Under the
direction of the cautious Spaniard, the town already assumed a
beleaguered aspect, and in addition to the watchman stationed on the
observatory of the fortress, a sentinel paced to and fro on the flat
roof of the gray old church, having orders to give instant alarm in
case of danger by the ringing of the several bells. Silver-haired men,
bending beneath the weight of years, alone passed along the deserted
streets, and augured of the future in the now silent Plaza. The stores
were closed, and anxiously the few Americans awaited the result;
rising at dawn with the belief that ere twilight closed again their
suspense would be terminated. On the morning of the 28th the booming
of distant artillery was borne on the southern breeze. With throbbing
hearts the inhabitants gathered about their doors, and strained their
eyes toward the south. A large body of Mexicans, availing themselves
of the cover of night, sallied from the Alamo, hoping to cut off a
squad of ninety-two men, who, leaving the main body of the Texan army,