apprehension."

"Eight thousand men! and not two hundred to man the Alamo. Inez is
right; this is not a proper place for you. We will go, as we once
decided, to Washington; and when you are in safety, I will return and
lend my efforts to the feeble garrison."

They reached the gate, and he gently lifted the frail form from the
saddle; and, drawing her arm through his, led her to the house. As
they entered, he bent his head and said, in, a low tone:

"Tell me candidly, are you able to undergo the fatigue incident to
this journey? I fear you are not."

"Yes, I shall perhaps grow stronger; at any rate, if you do not change
your mind, let no fears for me influence you."

When leaving, he said it was probable that all would be in readiness
for their departure within a couple of days, as he wished to see them
secure, and then return.

"Mrs. Carlton will accompany us when she learns this terrible news?"
said Mary, inquiringly.

"Oh yes; I cannot consent for her to remain, and besides Mr. Carlton
has been anxious for some time regarding his family."

Florence, having read the note, fully approved their promptly
removing, and all necessary preparations were made for immediate
departure.