Mary repressed a sigh which struggled up from her heart, and inquired
if there was any news.

"We cannot learn exactly what is transpiring within the Alamo, but
feel assured the crisis is at hand; some excitement has prevailed in
the garrison all day, and it is confidently expected in our camp that
the assault will soon be made."

"Oh! may God help you in the coming strife, and adjudge victory to the
side of justice and liberty."

"Apparently the chances are against us, Miss Irving; yet I regard the
future without apprehension, for the Texans are fearless, and General
Burleson in every respect worthy the confidence reposed in him. Allow
gloomy forebodings no room in your heart, but, like myself anticipate
a speedy termination of the war."

"Yet your situation is perilous in the extreme; hourly you incur
danger, and each day may be your last. Oh! why will you hazard your
life, and cause your sister such bitter anguish?" Mary replied, with
quivering lips, while the tone faltered, despite her efforts to seem
calm.

"At least, I could not die in a better cause; and, as the price of
independence, I would willingly yield up my life. Yet Ellen's tears
are difficult to bear; I bade her adieu a few moments since, and must
not meet her again till all is decided. So good-by, Miss Irving."

He held her hand in his, pressing it warmly, then lifted the cold