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THE TEXAN STAR

The Story of a Great Fight for Liberty

by

JOSEPH A. ALTSHELER

Author of_The Quest of the Four_, _The Border Watch_, _The Scouts of the Valley_, etc. 

Appleton-Century-Crofts, Inc. New York

1912

PREFACE

"The Texan Star, " while a complete story in itself, is the first ofthree, projected by the author, and based upon the Texan struggle forliberty against the power of Mexico. This revolution, epic in itsnature, and crowded with heroism and great events, divides itselfnaturally into three parts. 

The first phase begins in Mexico with the treacherous imprisonment ofAustin, the Texan leader, the rise of Santa Anna and his attempt, through bad faith, to disarm the Texans and leave them powerless beforethe Indians. It culminates in the rebellion of the Texans, and theircapture, in the face of great odds, of San Antonio, the seat of theMexican power in the north. 

The second phase is the coming of Santa Anna with an overwhelming force, the fall of the Alamo, the massacre of Goliad and the dark days ofTexas. Yet the period of gloom is relieved by the last stand ofCrockett, Bowie, and their famous comrades. 

The third phase is the coming of light in the darkness, Houston'scrowning victory at San Jacinto, and the complete victory of the Texans. 

The story of the Texan fight for freedom has always appealed to theauthor, as one of the most remarkable of modern times. 

 CONTENTS

CHAPTER I THE PRISONERS II A HAIR-CUT III SANCTUARY IV THE PALM V IN THE PYRAMID VI THE MARCH WITH COS VII THE DUNGEON UNDER THE SEA VIII THE BLACK JAGUAR IX THE RUINED TEMPLES X CACTUS AND MEXICANS XI THE LONG CHASE XII THE TRIAL OF PATIENCE XIII THE TEXANS XIV THE RING TAILED PANTHER XV THE FIRST GUN XVI THE COMING OF URREA XVII THE OLD CONVENTXVIII IN SAN ANTONIO XIX THE BATTLE BY THE RIVER XX THE WHEEL OF FIRE XXI THE TEXAN STAR XXII THE TAKING OF THE TOWN

THE TEXAN STAR

CHAPTER I

THE PRISONERS

A boy and a man sat in a room of a stone house in the ancient City ofMexico, capital in turn of Aztec, Spaniard and Mexican. They could seethrough the narrow windows masses of low buildings and tile roofs, andbeyond, the swelling shape of great mountains, standing clear againstthe blue sky. But they had looked upon them so often that the mind tookno note of the luminous spectacle. The cry of a water-seller or theoccasional jingle of a spur came from the street below, but these, too, were familiar sounds, and they were no longer regarded. 

The room contained but little furniture and the door was of heavy oak. Its whole aspect indicated that it was a prison. The man was of middleyears, and his face showed a singular blend of kindness and firmness. The pallor of imprisonment had replaced his usual color. The boy wastall and strong and his cheeks were yet ruddy. His features bore someresemblance to those of his older comrade. 

"Ned, " said the man at last, "it has been good of you to stay with mehere, but a prison is no place for a boy. You must secure a release andgo back to our people. "

The boy smiled, and his face, in repose rather stern for one so young, was illumined in a wonderful manner. 

"I don't want to leave you, Uncle Steve, " he said, "and if I did it'snot likely that I could. This house is strong, and it's a long way fromhere to Texas. "

"Perhaps I can induce them to let you go, " said the man. "Why shouldthey wish to hold one so young?"

Edward Fulton did not reply because he saw that Stephen Austin wasspeaking to himself rather than his companion. Instead, he looked oncemore through the window and over the city at the vast white peaks ofPopocatepetl and Ixtaccihuatl silent and immutable, forever guarding thesky-line. Yet they seemed to call to him at this moment and tell him offreedom. The words of the man had touched a spring within him and hewanted to go. He could not conceal from himself the fact that he longedfor liberty with every pulse and fiber. But he resolved, nevertheless, to stay. He would not desert the one whom he had come to serve. 

Stephen Austin, the real founder of Texas, had now been in prison inMexico more than a year. Coming to Saltillo to secure for the Texansbetter treatment from the Mexicans, their rulers, he had been seized andheld as a criminal. The boy, Edward Fulton, was not really his nephew, but an orphan, the son of a cousin. He owed much to Austin and coming tothe capital to help him he was sharing his imprisonment. 

"They say that Santa Anna now has the power, " said Ned, breaking thesomber silence. 

"It is true, " said Stephen Austin, "and it is a new and strong reasonwhy I fear for our people. Of all the cunning and ambitious men inMexico, Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna is the most cunning and ambitious. Iknow, too, that he is the most able, and I believe that he is the mostdangerous to those of us who have settled in Texas. What a country isthis Mexico! Revolution after revolution! You make a treaty with onepresident to-day and to-morrow another disclaims it! More than one ofthem has a touch of genius, and yet it is obscured by childishness andcruelty!"

He sighed heavily. Ned, full of sympathy, glanced at him but saidnothing. Then his gaze turned back to the mighty peaks which stood sosharp and clear against the blue. Truth and honesty were the most markedqualities of Stephen Austin and he could not understand the vast web ofintrigue in which the Mexican capital was continually involved. And tothe young mind of the boy, cast in the same mold, it was yet morebaffling and repellent. 

Ned still stared at the guardian peaks, but his thoughts floated awayfrom them. His head had been full of old romance when he entered thevale of Tenochtitlan. He had almost seen Cortez and the conquistadoresin their visible forms with their armor clanking about them as theystalked before him. He had gazed eagerly upon the lakes, the mightymountains, the low houses and the strange people. Here, deeds of whichthe world still talked had been done centuries ago and his thrill wasstrong and long. But the feeling was gone now. He had liked many of theMexicans and many of the Mexican traits, but he had felt with increasingforce that he could never reach out his hand and touch anything solid. He thought of volcanic beings on a volcanic soil. 

The throb of a drum came from the street below, and presently the shrillsound of fifes was mingled with the steady beat. Ned stood up andpressed his head as far forward as the bars of the window would let him. 

"Soldiers, a regiment, I think, " he said. "Ah, I can see them now! Whatbrilliant uniforms their officers wear!"

Austin also looked out. 

"Yes, " he said. "They know how to dress for effect. And their music isgood, too. Listen how they play. "

It was a martial air, given with a splendid lilt and swing. The tunecrept into Ned's blood and his hand beat time on the stone sill. But themusic increased his longing for liberty. His thoughts passed away fromthe narrow street and the marching regiment to the North, to the wildfree plains beyond the Rio Grande. It was there that his heart was, andit was there that his body would be. 

"It is General Cos who leads them, " said Austin. "I can see him now, riding upon a white horse. It's the man in the white and silver uniform, Ned. "

"He's the brother-in-law of Santa Anna, is he not?"

"Yes, and I fear him. I know well, Ned, that he hates the Texans--all ofus. "

"Perhaps the regiment that we see now is going north against ourpeople. "

Austin's brows contracted. 

"It may be so, " he said. "They give soft words all the time, and yetthey hold me a prisoner here. It would be like them to strike whilepretending to clear away all the troubles between us. "

He sighed again. Ned watched the soldiers until the last of them hadpassed the window, and then he listened to the music, the sound of drumand fife, until it died away, and they heard only the usual murmur ofthe city. Then the homesickness, the longing for the great free countryto the north grew upon him and became almost overpowering. 

"Someone comes, " said Austin. 

They heard the sound of the heavy bar that closed the door being movedfrom its place. 

"Our dinner, doubtless, " said Austin, "but it is early. "

The door swung wide and a young Mexican officer entered. He was tallerand fairer than most of his race, evidently of pure Northern Spanishblood, and his countenance was frank and fine. 

"Welcome, Lieutenant, " said Stephen Austin, speaking in Spanish, whichhe, as well as Ned, understood perfectly. "You know that we are alwaysglad to see you here. "

Lieutenant Alfonso de Zavala smiled in a quick, responsive way, but in amoment his face became grave. 

"I announce a visitor, a most distinguished visitor, Mr. Austin, " hesaid. "General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, President of the MexicanRepublic and Commander-in-chief of its armies and navies. "

Both Mr. Austin and the boy arose and bowed as a small man of middleyears, slender and nervous, strode into the room, standing for a fewmoments near its center, and looking about him like a questing hawk. Hiswas, in truth, an extraordinary presence. He seemed to radiate aninfluence that at once attracted and repelled. His dark features werecut sharply and clearly. His eyes, set closely together, were of themost intense black that Ned had ever seen in a human head. Nor werethose eyes ever at rest. They roamed over everything, and they seemed toburn every object for the single instant they fell there. They never metthe gaze of either American squarely, although they continually cameback to both. 

This man was clothed in a white uniform, heavy with gold stripes andgold epaulets. A small sword at his side had a gold hilt set with adiamond. He wore a three-cornered hat shaped like that of Napoleon, butinstead of the Corsican's simple gray his was bright in color andsplendid with plumage. 

He was at once a powerful and sinister figure. Ned felt that he was inthe presence of genius, but it belonged to one of those sinuouscreatures, shining and terrible, that are bred under the vivid sun ofthe tropics. There was a singular sensation at the roots of his hair, but, resolved to show neither fear nor apprehension, he stood and gazeddirectly at Santa Anna. 

"Be seated, Mr. Austin, " said the General, "and close the door, deZavala, but remain with us. Your young relative can remain, also. I havethings of importance to say, but it is not forbidden to him, also, tohear them. "

Ned sat down and so did Mr. Austin and young de Zavala, but Santa Annaremained standing. It seemed to Ned that he did so because he wished tolook down upon them from a height. And all the time the black eyes, liketwo burning coals, played restlessly about the room. 

Ned was unable to take his own eyes away. The figure in its gorgeousuniform was so full of nervous energy that it attracted like a magnet, while at the same time it bade all who opposed to beware. The boy feltas if he were before a splendid leopard with no bars of a cage between. 

Santa Anna took three or four rapid steps back and forth. He kept hishat upon his head, a right, it seemed, due to his superiority to otherpeople. He looked like a man who had a great thought which he wasshaping into quick words. Presently he stopped before Austin, and shothim one of those piercing glances. 

"My friend and guest, " he said in the sonorous Spanish. 

Austin bowed. Whether the subtle Mexican meant the words in satire orin earnest he did not know, nor did he care greatly. 

"When I call you my friend and guest I speak truth, " said Santa Anna. "It is true that we had you brought here from Saltillo, and we insistthat you accept our continued hospitality, but it is because we know howdevoted you are to our common Mexico, and we would have you here at ourright hand for advice and help. "

Ned saw Mr. Austin smile a little sadly. It all seemed very strange tothe boy. How could one talk of friendship and hospitality to those whomhe held as prisoners? Why could not these people say what they meant?Again he longed for the free winds of the plains. 

"You and I together should be able to quiet these troublesome Texans, "continued Santa Anna--and his voice had a hard metallic quality thatrasped the boy's nerves. "You know, Stephen Austin, that I and Mexicohave endured much from the people whom you have brought within ourborders. They shed good Mexican blood at the fort, Velasco, and theyhave attacked us elsewhere. They do not pay their taxes or obey ourdecrees, and when I send my officers to make them obey they take downtheir long rifles. "

Austin smiled again, and now the watching boy thought the smile was notsad at all. If Santa Anna took notice he gave no sign. 

"But you are reasonable, " continued the Mexican, and now his manner waswinning to an extraordinary degree. "It was my predecessor, Farias, whobrought you here, but I would not see you go, because I love you like abrother, and now I have come to you, that between us we may calm yourturbulent Texans. "

"But you must bear in mind, " said Austin, "that our rights have beentaken from us. All the clauses of our charter have been broken, and nowyour Congress has decreed that we shall have only one soldier to everyfive hundred inhabitants and that all the rest of us shall be disarmed. How are we, in a wild country, to protect ourselves from the Comanches, Lipans and other Indians who roam everywhere, robbing and murdering?"

Austin's face, usually so benevolent, flushed and his eyes were verybright. Ned looked intently at Santa Anna to see how he would take thedaring and truthful indictment. But the Mexican showed no confusion, only astonishment. He threw up his hands in a vivid southern gesture andlooked at Austin in surprised reproof. 

"My friend, " he said in injured but not angry tones, "how can you ask mesuch a question? Am I not here to protect the Texans? Am I not Presidentof Mexico? Am I not head of the Mexican army? My gallant soldiers, myhorsemen with their lances and sabers, will draw a ring around theTexans through which no Comanche or Lipan, however daring, will be ableto break. "

He spoke with such fire, such appearance of earnestness, that Ned, despite a mind uncommonly keen and analytical in one so young, wasforced to believe for a moment. Texas, however, was far and immense, andthere were not enough soldiers in all America to put a ring around thewild Comanches. But the impression remained longer with Austin, who wasever hoping for the best, and ever seeing the best in others. 

Ned was a silent boy who had suffered many hardships, and he hadacquired the habit of thought which in its turn brought observation andjudgment. Yet if Santa Anna was acting he was doing it with consummateskill, and the boy who never said a word watched him all the time. 

Santa Anna began to talk now of the great future that awaited the Texansunder the banner of Mexico. He poured forth the words with so much Latinfervor that it was almost like listening to a song. Ned felt theinfluence of the musical roll coming over him again, but, with an effortof the will that was almost physical, he shook it off. 

Santa Anna painted the picture of a dream, a gorgeous dream of manycolors. Mexico was to become a mighty country and the Texans with theircool courage and martial energy would be no mean factor in it. Austinwould be one of his lieutenants, a sharer in his greatness and reward. His eloquence was wonderful, and Ned felt once more the fascination ofthe serpent. This was a man to whom only the grand and magnificentappealed, and already he had achieved a part of his dream. 

Ned moved a little closer to the window. He wished the fresh air to blowupon his face. He saw that Mr. Austin was fully under the spell. SantaAnna was making the most beautiful and convincing promises. He himselfwas going to Texas. He was the father of his people. He would rightevery wrong. He loved the Texans, these children of the north who hadcome to his country for a home. No one could ever say that he appealedin vain to Santa Anna for protection. Texans would be proud that theywere a part of Mexico, they would be glad to belong to a nation whichalready had a glorious history, and to come to a capital which had moresplendor and romance than any other in America. 

Ned literally withdrew his soul within itself. He sought to shut out theinfluence that was radiating from this singular and brilliant figure, but he saw that Mr. Austin was falling more deeply under it. 

"Look!" said Santa Anna, taking the man by the arm in the familiarmanner that one old friend has with another and drawing him to thewindow. "Is not this a prospect to enchant? Is not this a capital ofwhich you and I can well be proud?"

He lifted a forefinger and swept the half curve that could be seen fromthe window. It was truly a panorama that would kindle the heart of thedullest. Forty miles away the white crests of Popocatepetl andIxtaccihuatl still showed against the background of burning blue, likepillars supporting the dome of heaven. Along the whole line of the halfcurve were mountains in fold on fold. Below the green of the valleyshowed the waters of the lake both fresh and salt gleaming with goldwhere the sunlight shot down upon them. Nearer rose the spires of thecathedral, and then the sea of tile roofs burnished by the vivid beams. 

Santa Anna stood in a dramatic position, his finger still pointing. There was scarcely a day that Ned did not feel the majesty of thisvalley of Tenochtitlan, but Santa Anna deepened the spell. Could theworld hold another place its equal? Might not the Texans indeed have aglorious future in the land of which this city was the capital? Poetryand romance appealed powerfully to the boy's thoughtful mind, and hefelt that here in Mexico he was at their very heart. Nothing else hadever moved him so much. 

"You are pleased! It impresses you!" said Santa Anna to Austin. "I cansee it on your face. You are with us. You are one of us. Ah, my friend, how noble it is to have a great heart. "

"Do I go with your message to the Texans?" asked Austin. 

"I must leave now, but I shall come again soon, and I will tell youall. You shall carry words that will satisfy every one of them. "

He threw his arms about Austin's shoulders, gave Ned a quick salute, andthen left the room, taking young de Zavala with him, Ned heard the heavybar fall in place on the outside of the door, and he knew that they wereshut in as tightly as ever. But Mr. Austin was in a glow. 

"What a wonderful, flexible mind!" he said, more to himself than to theboy. "I could have preferred a sort of independence for Texas, but sincewe're to be ruled from the City of Mexico, Santa Anna will do the besthe can for us. As soon as he sweeps away the revolutionary troubles hewill repair all our injuries. "

Ned was silent. He knew that the generous Austin was still under SantaAnna's magnetic spell, but after his departure the whole room waschanged to the boy. He saw clearly again. There were no mists and cloudsabout his mind. Moreover, the wonderful half curve before the window waschanging. Vapors were rolling up from the south and the two great peaksfaded from view. Trees and water in the valley changed to gray. Theskies which had been so bright now became somber and menacing. 

The boy felt a deep fear at his heart, but Mr. Austin seemed to be yetunder the influence of Santa Anna, and talked cheerfully of their speedyreturn to Texas. Ned listened in silence and unbelief, while the gloomoutside deepened, and night presently came over Anahuac. But he hadformed his resolution. He owed much to Mr. Austin. He had come a vastdistance to be at his side, and to serve him in prison, but he felt nowthat he could be of more use elsewhere. Moreover, he must carry amessage, a warning to those who needed it sorely. One of the windowsopened upon the north, and he looked intently through it trying topierce, with the mind's eye at least, the thousand miles that laybetween him and those whom he would reach with the word. 

Mr. Austin had lighted a candle. Noticing the boy's gloomy face, hepatted him on the head with a benignant hand and said:

"Don't be down of heart, Edward, my lad. We'll soon be on our way toTexas. "

"But this is Mexico, and it is Santa Anna who holds us. "

"That is true, and it is Santa Anna who is our best friend. "

Ned did not dispute the sanguine saying. He saw that Mr. Austin had hisopinion, and he had his. The door was opened again in a half hour and asoldier brought them their supper. Young de Zavala, who was theirimmediate guardian, also entered and stood by while they ate. They hadnever received poor food, and to-night Mexican hospitality exerteditself--at the insistence of Santa Anna, Ned surmised. In addition to theregular supper there was an ice and a bottle of Spanish wine. 

"The President has just given an order that the greatest courtesy beshown to you at all times, " said de Zavala, "and I am very glad. I, too, have people in that territory of ours from which you come--Texas. "

He spoke with undeniable sympathy, and Ned felt his heart warm towardhim, but he decided to say nothing. He feared that he might betray bysome chance word the plan that he had in mind. But Mr. Austin, believingin others because he was so truthful and honest himself, talked freely. 

"All our troubles will soon be over, " he said to de Zavala. 

"I hope so, Señor, " said the young man earnestly. 

By and by, when de Zavala and the soldier were gone, Ned went again tothe window, stood there a few moments to harden his resolution, and thencame back to the man. 

"Mr. Austin, " he said, "I am going to ask your consent to something. "

The Texan looked up in surprise. 

"Why, Edward, my lad, " he said kindly, "you don't have to ask my consentto anything, after the way in which you have already sacrificed yourselffor me. "

"But I am not going to stay with you any longer, Mr. Austin--that is, ifI can help it. I am going back to Texas. "

Mr. Austin laughed. It was a mellow and satisfied laugh. 

"So you are, Edward, " he said, "and I am going with you. You will helpme to bear a message of peace and safety to the Texans. "

Ned paused a moment, irresolute. There was no change in hisdetermination. He was merely uncertain about the words to use. 

"There may be delays, " he said at last, "and--Mr. Austin, I have decidedto go alone--and within the next day or two if I can. "

The Texan's face clouded. 

"I cannot understand you, " he said. "Why this hurry? It would in realitybe a breach of faith to our great friend, Santa Anna--that is, if youcould go. I don't believe you can. "

Ned was troubled. He was tempted to tell what was in his mind, but heknew that he would not be believed, so he fell back again upon hisinfinite capacity for silence. Mr. Austin read resolution in the closedlips and rigid figure. 

"Do you really mean that you will attempt to steal away?" he asked. 

"As soon as I can. "

The man shook his head. 

"It would be better not to do so, " he said, "but you are your ownmaster, and I see I cannot dissuade you from the attempt. But, boy, youwill promise me not to take any unnecessary or foolish risks?"

"I promise gladly, and, Mr. Austin, I hate to leave you here. "

Their quarters were commodious and Ned slept alone in a small room tothe left of the main apartment. It was a bare place with only a bed anda chair, but it was lighted by a fairly large window. Ned examined thiswindow critically. It had a horizontal iron bar across the middle, andit was about thirty feet from the ground. He pulled at the iron bar withboth hands but, although rusty with time, it would not move in itssocket. Then he measured the two spaces between the bar and the wall. 

Hope sprang up in the boy's heart. Then he did a strange thing. Heremoved nearly all his clothing and tried to press his head andshoulders between the bar and the wall. His head, which was of the longnarrow type, so common in the scholar, would have gone through theaperture, had it not been for his hair which was long, and which grewuncommonly thick. His shoulders were very thick and broad and they, too, halted him. He drew back and felt a keen thrill of disappointment. 

But he was a boy who usually clung tenaciously to an idea, and, sittingdown, he concentrated his mind upon the plan that he had formed. By andby a possible way out came to him. Then he lay down upon the bed, drew ablanket over him because the night was chill in the City of Mexico, andcalmly sought sleep. 

CHAPTER II

A HAIR-CUT

The optimism of Mr. Austin endured the next morning, but Ned was gloomy. Since it was his habit to be silent, the man did not notice it at first. The breakfast was good, with tortillas, frijoles, other Mexican dishesand coffee, but the boy had no appetite. He merely picked at his food, made a faint effort or two to drink his coffee and finally put the cupback almost full in the saucer. Then Mr. Austin began to observe. 

"Are you ill, Ned?" he asked. "Is this imprisonment beginning to tellupon you? I had thought that you were standing it well. Can't you eat?"

"I don't believe I'm hungry, " replied the boy, "but there is nothingelse the matter with me. I'll be all right, Uncle Steve. Don't youbother about me. "

He ate a little breakfast, about one half of the usual amount, and then, asking to be excused, went to the window, where he again stared out atthe tiled roofs, the green foliage in the valley of Mexico and theranges and peaks beyond. He was taking his resolution, and he wascarrying it out, but it was hard, very hard. He foresaw that he wouldhave to strengthen his will many, many times. Mr. Austin took no furtherworry on Ned's account, thinking that he would be all right again in aday or two. 

But at the dinner which was brought to them in the middle of the dayNed showed a marked failure of appetite, and Mr. Austin felt realconcern. The boy, however, was sure that he would be all right beforethe day was over. 

"It must be the lack of fresh air and exercise, " said Mr. Austin. "Youcan really take exercise in here, Ned. Besides, you said that you weregoing to escape. If you fall ill you will have no chance at all. "

He spoke half in jest, but Ned took him seriously. 

"I am not ill, Uncle Steve, " he said. "I really feel very well, but Ihave lost my appetite. Maybe I am getting tired of these Mexicandishes. "

"Take exercise! take exercise!" said Mr. Austin with emphasis. 

"I think I will, " said Ned. 

Physical exercise, after all, fitted in with his ideas, and thatafternoon he worked hard at all the gymnastic feats possible within thethree rooms to which they were confined. De Zavala came in and expressedhis astonishment at the athletic feats, which Ned continued withunabated zeal despite his presence. 

"Why do you do these things?" he asked in wonder. 

"To keep myself strong and healthy. I ought to have begun them sooner. The Mexican air is depressing, and I find that I am losing my appetite. "

De Zavala's eyes opened wide while Ned deftly turned a handspring. Thenthe young American sat down panting, his face flushed with as healthy acolor as one could find anywhere. 

"You'll have an appetite to-night, " said Mr. Austin. But to his greatamazement Ned again played with his food, eating only half the usualamount. 

"You're surely ill, " said Mr. Austin. "I've no doubt de Zavala wouldallow us to have a physician, and I shall ask him for one. "

"Don't do it, Uncle Steve, " begged Ned. "There's nothing at all thematter with me, and anyhow I wouldn't want a Mexican doctor fussing overme. I've probably been eating too much. "

Mr. Austin was forced to accede. The boy certainly did not look ill, andhis appetite was bound to become normal again in a few days. But it didnot. As far as Mr. Austin could measure it, Ned was eating less andless. It was obvious that he was thinner. He was also growing muchpaler, except for a red flush on the cheek bones. Mr. Austin becamealarmed, but Ned obstinately refused any help, always asserting withemphasis that he had no ailment of any kind. But the man could see thathe had become much lighter, and he wondered at the boy's physicalfailure. De Zavala, also, expressed his sorrow in sonorous Spanish, butNed, while thanking them, steadily disclaimed any need of sympathy. 

The boy found the days hard, but the nights were harder. For the firsttime in his life he could not sleep well. He would lie for hours so wideawake that his eyes grew used to the dark, and he could see everythingin his room. He was troubled, too, by bad dreams and in many of thesedreams he was a living skeleton, wandering about and condemned to liveforever without food. More than once he bitterly regretted theresolution he had taken, but having taken it, he would never alter it. His silent, concentrated nature would not let him. Yet he enduredundoubted torture day by day. Torture was the only name for it. 

"I shall send an application to President Santa Anna to have you alloweda measure of liberty, " said Mr. Austin finally. "You are simply piningaway here, Edward, my lad. You cannot eat, that is, you eat only alittle. I have passed the most tempting and delicate things to you andyou always refuse. No boy of your age would do so unless something werevery much wrong with his physical system. You have lost many pounds, andif this keeps on I do not know what will happen to you. I shall not askfor more liberty for you, but you must have a doctor at once. "

"I do not want any doctor, Uncle Steve, " said the boy. "He cannot do meany good, but there is somebody else whom I want. "

"Who is he?"

"A barber. "

"A barber! Now what good can a barber do you?"

"A great deal. What I crave most in the world is a hair-cut, and only abarber can do that for me. My hair has been growing for more than threemonths, Uncle Steve, and you've seen how extremely thick it is. Now itis so long, too, that it's falling all about my eyes. Its weight isoppressing my brain. I feel a little touch of fever now and then, and Ibelieve it's this awful hair. "

He ran his fingers through the heavy locks until his head seemed to besurrounded with a defense like the quills of a porcupine. Beneath thegreat bush of hair his gray eyes glowed in a pale, thin face. 

"There is a lot of it, " said Mr. Austin, surveying him critically, "butit is not usual for anybody in our situation to be worrying about thelength and abundance of his hair. "

"I'm sure I'd be a lot better if I could get it cut close. "

"Well, well, if you are taking it so much to heart we'll see what can bedone. You are ill and wasted, Edward, and when one is in that conditiona little thing can affect his spirits. De Zavala is a friendly sort ofyoung fellow and through him we will send a request to Colonel Sandoval, the commander of the prisons, that you be allowed to have your haircut. "

"If you please, Uncle Steve, " said Ned gratefully. 

Mr. Austin was not wrong in his forecast about Lieutenant de Zavala. Heshowed a full measure of sympathy. Hence a petition to Colonel MartinSandoval y Dominguez, commander of prisons in the City of Mexico, wasdrawn up in due form. It stated that one Edward Fulton, a Texan oftender years, now in detention at the capital, was suffering from theexcessive growth of hair upon his head. The weight and thickness of saidhair had heated his brain and destroyed his appetite. In ordinary casesof physical decline a physician was needed most, but so far as youngEdward Fulton was concerned, a barber could render the greatest service. 

The petition, duly endorsed and stamped, was forwarded to Colonel MartinSandoval y Dominguez, and, after being gravely considered by him in themanner befitting a Mexican officer of high rank and pure Spanishdescent, received approval. Then he chose among the barbers one JoaquinMenendez, a dark fellow who was not of pure Spanish descent, and senthim to the prison with de Zavala to accomplish the needed task. 

"I hope you will be happy now, Edward, " said Mr. Austin, when the twoMexicans came. "You are a good boy, but it seems to me that you havebeen making an undue fuss about your hair. "

"I'm quite sure I shall recover fast, " said Ned. 

It was hard for him to hide his happiness from the others. He felt athrill of joy every time the steel of the scissors clicked together anda lock of hair fell to the floor. But Joaquin Menendez, the barber, hada Southern temperament and the soul of an artist. It pained him toshear away--"shear away" alone described it--such magnificent hair. Itwas so thick, so long and so glossy. 

"Ah, " he said, laying some of the clipped locks across his hand andsurveying them sorrowfully, "so great is the pity! What señorita couldresist the young señor if these were still growing upon his head!"

"You cut that hair, " said Ned with a vicious snap of his teeth, "and cutit close, so close that it will look like the shaven face of a man. Ithink you will find it so stated in the conditions if you will look atthe permit approved in his own handwriting by Colonel Sandoval yDominguez. "

Joaquin Menendez, still the artist, but obedient to the law, heaved adeep sigh, and proceeded with his sad task. Lock by lock the abundanthair fell, until Ned's head stood forth in the shaven likeness of aman's face that he had wished. 

"I must tell you, " said Mr. Austin, "that it does not become you, but Ihope you are satisfied. "

"I am satisfied, " replied Ned. "I have every cause to be. I know I shallhave a stronger appetite to-morrow. "

"You are certainly a sensitive boy, " said Mr. Austin, looking at him insome wonder. "I did not know that such a thing could influence yourfeelings and your physical condition so much. "

Ned made no reply, but that night he ate supper with a much betterappetite than he had shown in many days, bringing words of warm approvaland encouragement from Mr. Austin. 

An hour or two later, when cheerful good-nights had been exchanged, Nedwithdrew to his own little room. He lay down upon his bed, but he wasfully clothed and he had no intention of sleep. Instead the boy wastransformed. For days he had been walking with a weak and lagging gait. Fever was in his veins. Sometimes he became dizzy, and the walls andfloors of the prison swam before him. But now the spirit had takencommand of the thin body. Weakness and dizziness were gone. Every veinwas infused with strength. Hope was in command, and he no longer doubtedthat he would succeed. 

He rose from the bed and went to the window. The city was silent and thenight was dark. Floating clouds hid the moon and stars. The ranges andthe city roofs themselves had sunk into the dusk. It seemed to him thatall things favored the bold and persevering. And he had beenpersevering. No one would ever know how he had suffered, what terrificpangs had assailed him. He could not see now how he had done it, and hewas quite sure that he could never go through such an ordeal again. Therack would be almost as welcome. 

Ned did not know it, but a deep red flush had come into each pale cheek. He removed most of his clothes, and put his head forward between theiron bar and the window sill. The head went through and the shouldersfollowed. He drew back, breathing a deep and mighty breath of triumph. Yet he had known that it would be so. When he first tried the space hehad been only a shade too large for it. Now his head and shoulders wouldgo between, but with nothing to spare. A sheet of paper could not havebeen slipped in on either side. Yet it was enough. The triumph ofself-denial was complete. 

He had thought several times of telling Mr. Austin, but he finallydecided not to do so. He might seek to interfere. He would put athousand difficulties in the way, some real and some imaginary. It wouldsave the feelings of both for him to go quietly, and, when Mr. Austinmissed him, he would know why and how he had gone. 

Ned stood at the window a little while longer, listening. He heard faraway the faint rattle of a saber, probably some officer of Santa Annawho was going to a place outside a lattice, the sharp cry of a Mexicanupbraiding his lazy mule, and the distant note of a woman singing an oldSpanish song. It was as dark as ever, with the clouds rolling over thegreat valley of Tenochtitlan, which had seen so much of human passionand woe. Ned, brave and resolute as he was, shivered. He was oppressedby the night and the place. It seemed to him, for the moment, that theghosts of stern Cortez, and of the Aztecs themselves were walking outthere. 

Then he did a characteristic thing. Folding his arms in front of him hegrasped his own elbows and shook himself fiercely. The effort of willand body banished the shapes and illusions, and he went to work withfirm hands. 

He tore the coverings from his bed into strips, and knotted themtogether stoutly, trying each knot by tying the strip to the bar, andpulling on it with all his strength. He made his rope at least thirtyfeet long and then gave it a final test, knot by knot. He judged that itwas now near midnight and the skies were still very dark. Inside of ahalf hour he would be gone--to what? He was seized with an intenseyearning to wake up Mr. Austin and tell him good-by. The Texan leaderhad been so good to him, he would worry so much about him that it wasalmost heartless to slip away in this manner. But he checked theimpulse again, and went swiftly ahead with his work. 

He kept on nothing but his underclothing and trousers. The rest he madeup into a small package which he tied upon his back. He was sorry thathe did not have any weapon. He had been deprived of even hispocket-knife, but he did have a few dollars of Spanish coinage, which hestowed carefully in his trousers pocket. All the while his energyendured despite his wasted form. Hope made a bridge for his weakness. 

He let the line out of the window, and his delicate sense told him whenit struck against the ground. Six or eight feet were left in his hand, and he tied the end firmly to the bar, knotting it again and again. Thenhe slipped through the opening and the passage was so close that hisears scraped as they went by. He hung for a few moments on the outside, his feet on the stone sill and his hands clasping the iron bar. He feltsheer and absolute terror. The spires of the cathedral were invisibleand only a few far lights showed dimly. It seemed to him that he wassuspended over a bottomless pit, and he shivered from head to foot. 

But he recalled his courage. Such a black night was best suited to histask. The shivering ceased. Hope ruled once more. He knelt on the stonesill, and, grasping his crude rope with both hands, let himself downfrom the window. It required almost superhuman exertion to keep himselffrom dropping sheer away, and the rope burned his palms. But he held on, knowing that he must hold, and the stone wall felt cold to him, as helay against it, and slid slowly down. 

Perhaps his strength, which was more of the mind than of the body, partly gave way under such a severe strain, but he felt pains shootingthrough his arms, shoulders and chest. His most vivid recollections ofthe descent were the coldness of the wall against which he lay and thefar tinkle of a mandolin which came to him with annoying distinctness. The frequent knots where he had tied the strips together were a help, and whenever he came to one he let his hands rest upon it a moment ortwo lest he slide down too rapidly. 

He had been descending, it seemed to him, fully an hour, and he musthave come down a mile, when he heard the rattle of a saber. It was sodistinct and so near that it could not be imagination. He looked in thedirection of the sound and saw two dark figures in the street. As hestared the two figures shaped themselves into two Mexican officers. Truth, not fancy, told him also that they were not moving. They had seenhim escaping and they would come for him! He pressed his body hardagainst the stone wall, and with his hands resting upon one of the knotsclung desperately to the rope. He was hanging in an alley, and the menwere on the street at the mouth of it six or seven yards away. They weretalking and it must be about him!

He saw them create a light in some manner, and his hands almost slippedfrom the rope. Then joy flooded back. They were merely lightingcigarettes, and, with a few more words to each other, they walked on. Ned slid slowly down, but when he came to the last knot his strengthgave way and he fell. It seemed to him that he was plunging animmeasurable distance through depths of space. Then he struck and withthe force of the blow consciousness left him. 

When he revived he found himself lying upon a rough stone pavement andit was still dark. He saw above a narrow cleft of somber sky, andsomething cold and trailing lay across his face. He shivered withrepulsion, snatched at it to throw it off, and found that it was hisrope. Then he felt of himself cautiously and fearfully, but found thatno bones were broken. Nor was he bruised to any degree and now he knewthat he could not have fallen more than two or three feet. Perhaps hehad struck first upon the little pack which he had fastened upon hisback. It reminded him that he was shoeless and coatless and undoing thepack he reclothed himself fully. 

He was quite sure that he had not lain there more than a quarter of anhour. Nothing had happened while he was unconscious. It was a darklittle alley in the rear of the prison, and the buildings on the otherside that abutted upon it were windowless. He walked cautiously to themouth of the alley, and looked up and down the street. He saw no one, and, pulling his cap down over his eyes, he started instinctively towardthe north, because it was to the far north that he wished to go. He wasfully aware that he faced great dangers, almost impossibilities. Practically nothing was in his favor, save that he spoke excellentSpanish and also Mexican versions of it. 

He went for several hundred yards along the rough and narrow street, andhe began to shiver again. Now it was from cold, which often growsintense at night in the great valley of Mexico. Nor was his wasted framefitted to withstand it. He was assailed also by a fierce hunger. He hadcarried self-denial to the utmost limit, and nature was crying outagainst him in a voice that must be heard. 

He resolved to risk all and obtain food. Another hundred yards and hesaw crouched in an angle of the street an old woman who offeredtortillas and frijoles for sale. He went a little nearer, butapprehension almost overcame him. It might be difficult for him to passfor a Mexican and she would give the alarm. But he went yet nearer andstood where he could see her face. It was broad, fat and dark, moreAztec than Spaniard, and then he approached boldly, his speed increasedby the appetizing aroma arising from some flat cakes that lay overburning charcoal. 

"I will take these, my mother, " he said in Mexican, and leaning over hesnatched up half a dozen gloriously hot tortillas and frijoles. A cry ofindignation and anger was checked at the old woman's lips as two smallsilver coins slipped from the boy's hands, and tinkled pleasantlytogether in her own. 

Holding his spoils in his hands Ned walked swiftly up the street. Heglanced back once, and saw that the old Aztec woman had sunk back intoher original position. He had nothing to fear from any alarm by her, andhe looked ahead for some especially dark nook in which he could devourthe precious food. He saw none, but he caught a glimpse beyond offoliage, and he recalled enough of the city of Mexico to know what itwas. It was the Zocalo or garden of the cathedral, the Holy MetropolitanChurch of Mexico. Above the foliage he could see the dark walls, andabove them he saw the dome, as he had seen it from the window of hisprison. Over the dome itself rose a beautiful lantern, in which a lightwas now burning. 

Ned entered the garden which contained many trees, and sat down in thethickest group of them. Then he began to eat. He was as ravenous as anywolf, but he had been cultivating the power of will, and he ate like agentleman, knowing that to do otherwise would not be good for him. But, tempered by discretion, it was a glorious pursuit. It was almost worththe long period of fasting and suffering, for common Mexican food, bought on the street from an old Aztec woman, to taste so well. Strengthflowed back into every vein and muscle. He would not now give way tofears and tremblings which were of the body rather than the mind. Hestopped when half of the food was gone, put the remainder in his pocket, and stood up. Fine drops of water struck him in the face. It had begunto rain. And a raw wind was moaning in the valley. 

Despite the warm food and his returning strength Ned felt the desperateneed of shelter. It was growing colder, too. Even as he stood there thefine rain turned to fine snow. It melted as it fell, but when it struckhim about the neck and face it had an uncommonly penetrating power andthe chill seemed to go into the bone. He must have shelter. He looked atthe dark walls of the cathedral and then at the light in the slenderlantern far up above the dome. What more truly a shelter than a church!It had been a sanctuary in the dark ages, and he might use it now assuch. 

He left the trees and stood for a little while by a stone, one of the124 which formerly enclosed an atrium. Still seeing nothing and hearingnothing but the whistle of the wind which drove the cold drops of snowunder his collar he advanced boldly again, sprang over the iron railing, and came to the walls of the old church, where he stood a moment. 

Ned knew that in great Catholic cathedrals, like the one of Mexico, there were always side doors or little wickets used by priests or otherhigh officials of the church, and he was hoping to find one that hecould open. He passed half way around the building, feeling cautiouslyalong the cold stone. Once he saw a watchman with sombrero, heavy cloakand lantern. He pressed into a niche, and the watchman went on hisautomatic way, little thinking that anyone was near. 

The boy continued his circuit and presently he found a wooden door, which he could not force. A little further and he came to a second whichopened to his pressure. It was so small an entrance that he stooped ashe passed in. He shut it carefully behind him, and stood in what wasalmost total darkness, until his eyes grew used to the gloom. 

Then he saw that he was in a vast interior, Doric in architecture, severe and simple. It was in the form of a Latin cross, with flutedcolumns dividing the aisles from the nave. Above him rose a noble dome. 

He could make out nothing more for the present. It was very still, veryimposing, and at another time he would have been awed, but now he hadfound sanctuary. The cold and the snow were shut out and a gratefulwarmth took their place. He walked down one of the aisles, careful thathis footsteps should make no sound. He saw that there were rows ofchapels, seven on either side of the church. It occurred to him that hewould be safer in one of these rooms and he chose that which seemed tobe used the least. 

While on this search he passed the main altar in the center of thebuilding. He noticed above the stalls a picture of the Virgin. He was aProtestant, but when he saw it he crossed himself devoutly. Was not herchurch giving him shelter and refuge from his enemies? He also passedthe Altar of the Kings, beneath which now lie the heads of greatMexicans who secured the independence of their country from Spain. Helooked a little at these before he entered the chapel of his choice. 

It was a small room, lighted scarcely at all by a narrow window, and itcontained a few straight wooden pews one of which had been turned aboutfacing the wall. He lay down in his pew, and, even in daylight, he wouldhave been hidden from anyone a yard away. The hard wood was soft to him. He put his cap under his head and stretched himself out. Then, withoutwill, he relaxed completely. Nature could stand no more. His eyes closedand he floated off into the far and happy region of sleep. 

CHAPTER III

SANCTUARY

Ned Fulton's sleep was that of exhaustion, and it lasted long. Althoughfine snow yet fell outside, and the raw wind blew it about, a pleasantwarmth pervaded the snug alcove, made by the back of the pew in which helay. He had been fortunate indeed to find such a place, because the bodyof the church was gloomy and cold. But he did not hear the winds, and nothought of the snow troubled him, as he slept on hour after hour. 

The night passed, the light snow had ceased, no trace of it was left onthe earth, and the brilliant sunshine flooded the ancient capital withwarmth. People went about their usual pursuits. Old men and old womensold sweets, hot coffee, and tortillas and frijoles, also hot, in thestreets. Little plaster images of the saints and the Virgin were exposedon trays. Donkeys loaded with vegetables, that had been brought acrossthe lakes, bumped one another in the narrow ways. Many officers in fineuniforms and many soldiers in uniforms not so fine could be seen. 

Whatever else Mexico might be it was martial. The great Santa Anna whommen called another Napoleon now ruled, and there was talk of war andglory. Much of it was vague, but of one thing they were certain. SantaAnna would soon crush the mutinous Texans in the wild north. Gringosthey were, always pushing where they were not wanted, and, however hardtheir fate, they would deserve it. The vein of cruelty which, despitegreat virtues, has made Spain a by-word among nations, showed in herdescendants. 

But the boy, Edward Fulton, sleeping in the chapel of the greatcathedral, knew nothing of it all. Nature, too long defrauded, wasclaiming payment of her debt, and he slept peacefully on, although thehours passed and noon came. 

The church had long been open. Priests came and went in the aisles, andentered some of the chapels. Worshipers, most of them women, kneltbefore the shrines. Service was held at the high altar, and the odor ofincense filled the great nave. Yet the boy was still in sanctuary, and akindly angel was watching over him. No one entered the chapel in whichhe slept. 

It was almost the middle of the afternoon when he awoke. He heard afaint murmur of voices and a pleasant odor came to his nostrils. Hequickly remembered everything, and, stirring a little on his woodencouch he found a certain stiffness in the joints. He realized howeverthat all his strength had come back. 

But Ned Fulton understood, although he had escaped from prison and hadfound shelter and sanctuary in the cathedral, that he was yet in anextremely precarious position. The murmur of voices told him that peoplewere in the church, and he had no doubt that the odor came from burningincense. 

A little light from the narrow window fell upon him. It came throughcolored glass, and made red and blue splotches on his hands, at which helooked curiously. He knew that it was a brilliant day outside, and helonged for air and exercise, but he dared not move except to stretch hisarms and legs, until the stiffness and soreness disappeared from hisjoints. Contact with Spaniard and Mexican had taught him the full needof caution. 

He was very hungry again, and now he was thankful for his restraint ofthe night before. He ate the rest of the food in his pockets and waitedpatiently. 

Ned knew that he had slept a long time, and that it must be late in theday. He was confirmed in his opinion by the angle at which the lightentered the window, and he decided that he would lie in the pew untilnight came again. It was a trying test. School his will as he would hefelt at times that he must come from his covert and walk about thechapel. The narrow wooden pew became a casket in which he was held, andnow and then he was short of breath. Yet he persisted. He was learningvery young the value of will, and he forced himself every day to use itand increase its strength. 

In such a position and with so much threatening him his faculties becameuncommonly keen. He heard the voices more distinctly, and also thefootsteps of the priests in their felt slippers. They passed the door ofthe chapel in which he lay, and once or twice he thought they were goingto enter, but they seemed merely to pause at the door. Then he wouldhold his breath until they were gone. 

At last and with infinite joy he saw the colored lights fade. The windowitself grew dark, and the murmur in the church ceased. But he did notcome forth from his secure refuge until it was quite dark. He staggeredfrom stiffness at first, but the circulation was soon restored. Then helooked from the door of the chapel into the great nave. An old priest ina brown robe was extinguishing the candles. Ned watched him until hehad put out the last one, and disappeared in the rear of the church. 

Then he came forth and standing in the great, gloomy nave tried todecide what to do next. He had found a night's shelter and no more. Hehad escaped from prison, but not from the City of Mexico, and his Texaswas yet a thousand miles away. 

Ned found the little door by which he had entered, and passed outside, hiding again among the trees of the Zocalo. The night was very cold andhe shivered once more, as he stood there waiting. The night was so darkthat the cathedral was almost a formless bulk. But above it, the lightin the slender lantern shone like a friendly star. While he looked thegreat bell of Santa Maria de Guadalupe in the western tower began tochime, and presently the smaller bell of Dona Maria in the eastern towerjoined. It was a mellow song they sung and they sang fresh courage intothe young fugitive's veins. He knew that he could never again see thiscathedral built upon the site of the great Aztec teocalli, destroyed bythe Spaniards more than three hundred years before, without a throb ofgratitude. 

Ned's first resolve was to take measures for protection from the cold, and he placed his silver dollars in his most convenient pocket. Then heleft the trees and moved toward the east, passing in front of thehandsome church Sagrario Metropolitano, and entering a very narrowstreet that led among a maze of small buildings. The district waslighted faintly by a few hanging lanterns, but as Ned had hoped, some ofthe shops were yet open. The people who sat here and there in the lowdoorways were mostly short of stature and dark and broad of face. TheIndian in them predominated over the Spaniard, and some were pure Aztec. Ned judged that they would not take any deep interest in the fortunesof their rulers, Spanish or Mexican, royalist or republican. 

He pulled his cap over his eyes and a little to one side, and strolledon, humming an old Mexican air. His walk was the swagger of a youngMexican gallant, and in the dimness they would not notice his Northernfairness. Several pairs of eyes observed him, but not with disapproval. They considered him a trim Mexican lad. Some of the men in the doorwaystook up the air that he was whistling and continued it. 

He saw soon the place for which he was looking, a tiny shop in which anold Indian sold serapes. He stopped in the doorway, which he filled, took down one of the best and heaviest and held out the number ofdollars which he considered an adequate price. The Indian shook his headand asked for nearly twice as much. Ned knew how long they bargained andchaffered in Mexico and what a delight they took in it. After an hour'stalk he could secure the serape, at the price he offered, but he darednot linger in one place. Already the old Indian was looking at himinquiringly. Doubtless he had seen that this was no Mexican, but Nedjudged shrewdly that he would not let the fact interfere with apromising bargain. 

The boy acted promptly. He added two more silver dollars to the amountthat he had proffered, put the whole in the old Indian's palm, took downthe serape, folded it over his arm, and with a "gracias, señor, " backedswiftly out of the shop. The old Indian was too much astonished to movefor at least a half minute. Then tightly clutching the silver in hishand he ran into the street. But the tall young señor, with the serapealready wrapped around his shoulders, was disappearing in the darkness. The Indian opened his palm and looked at the silver. A smile passed overhis face. After all, it was two good Spanish dollars more than he hadexpected, and he returned contentedly to his shop. If such generousyoung gentlemen came along every night his fortune would soon be made. 

Ned soon left the shop far behind. It was a fine serape, very large, thick and warm, and he draped himself in it in true Mexican fashion. Itkept him warm, and, wrapped in its folds, he looked much more like agenuine Mexican. He had but little money left, but among the moreprimitive people beyond the capital one might work his way. If suspectedhe could claim to be English, and Mexico was not at war with England. 

He bought a sombrero at another shop with almost the last of his money, and then started toward La Viga, the canal that leads from the lowerpart of the city toward the fresh water lakes, Chalco and Xochimilco. Hehoped to find at the canal one of the bergantins, or flat-bottomedboats, in which vegetables, fruit and flowers were brought to the cityfor sale. They were good-natured people, those of the bergantins, andthey would not scorn the offer of a stout lad to help with sail and oar. 

Hidden in his serape and sombrero, and, secure in his knowledge ofSpanish and Mexican, he now advanced boldly through the more populousand better lighted parts of the city. He even lingered a little while infront of a café, where men were playing guitar and mandolin, and girlswere dancing with castanets. The sight of light and life pleased the boywho had been so long in prison. These people were diverting themselvesand they smiled and laughed. They seemed to have kindly feelings foreverybody, but he remembered that cruel Spanish strain, often dormant, but always there, and he hastened on. 

Three officers, their swords swinging at their thighs, came down thenarrow street abreast. At another time Ned would not have given way, andeven now it hurt him to do so, but prudence made him step from thesidewalk. One of them laughed and applied an insulting epithet to the"peon, " but Ned bore it and continued, his sombrero pulled well downover his eyes. 

His course now led him by the great palace of Yturbide, where he sawmany windows blazing with light. Several officers were entering andchief among them he recognized General Martin Perfecto de Cos, thebrother-in-law of Santa Anna, whom Ned believed to be a treacherous andcruel man. He hastened away from such an unhealthy proximity, and cameto La Viga. 

He saw a rude wharf along the canal and several boats, all with thesails furled, except two. These two might be returning to the freshwater lakes, and it was possible that he could secure passage. Thepeople of the bergantins were always humble peons and they cared littlefor the intrigues of the capital. 

It was now about eleven o'clock and the night had lightened somewhat, afair moon showing. Ned could see distinctly the boats or bergantins asthe Mexicans called them. They were large, flat of bottom, shallow ofdraft, and were propelled with both sail and oar. He was repulsed at thefirst, where a surly Mexican of middle age told him with a curse that hewanted no help, but at the next which had as a crew a man, a woman, evidently his wife, and two half-grown boys, he was more fortunate. Could he use an oar? He could. Then he might come, because there waslittle promise of wind, and the sails would be of no use. A strong armwould help, as it was sixteen miles down La Viga to the Lake ofXochimilco, on the shores of which they lived. The boys were tired andsleepy, and he would serve very well in their stead. 

Ned took his place in the boat, truly thankful that in this crisis ofhis life he knew how to row. He saw that his hosts, or rather those forwhom he worked, were an ordinary peon family, at least half Indian, sluggish of mind and kind of heart. They had brought vegetables andflowers to the city, and now they were thriftily returning in the nightto their home on the lake that Benito Igarritos and his sons might notmiss the next day from their work. 

Igarritos and Ned took the oars. The two boys stretched themselves onthe bottom of the boat and were asleep in an instant. Juana, the wife, spread a serape over them, and then sat down in Turkish fashion in thecenter of the bergantin, a great red and yellow reboso about her headand shoulders. Sometimes she looked at her husband, and sometimes at thestrange boy. He had spoken to them in good Mexican, he dressed like aMexican and he walked like a Mexican, but she had not been deceived. Sheknew that the Mexican part of him ended with the serape and sombrero. She wondered why he had come, and why he was anxious to go to the Lakeof Xochimilco. But she reflected with the patience and resignation of anoppressed race that it was no business of hers. He was a good youth. Hehad spoken to her with compliments as one speaks to a lady of highdegree, and he bent manfully on the oar. He was welcome. But he musthave a name and she would know it. 

"What do you call yourself?" she asked. 

"William, " he replied. "I come from a far country, England, and it is mypleasure to travel in new lands and see new peoples. "

"Weel-le-am, " she said gravely, "you are far from your friends. "

Ned bent his head in assent. Her simple words made him feel that he wasindeed far from his own land and surrounded by a thousand perils. Thewoman did not speak again and they moved on with an even stroke down thecanal which had an uniform width of about thirty feet. They were stillpassing houses of stone and others of adobe, but before they had gone amile they were halted by a sharp command from the shore. An officer andthree soldiers, one of whom held a lantern, stood on the bank. 

Ned had expected that they would be stopped. These were revolutionarytimes and people could not go in or out of the city unnoticed. Particularly was La Viga guarded. He knew that his fate now rested withBenito Igarritos and his wife Juana, but he trusted them. The officerwas peremptory, but the bergantin was most innocent in appearance. Merely a humble vegetable boat returning down La Viga after a successfulday in the city. "Your family?" Ned heard the officer say to Benito, ashe flashed the lantern in turn upon every one. 

Taciturn, like most men of the oppressed races, Benito nodded, while hiswife sat silent in her great red and yellow reboso. Ned leanedcarelessly upon the oar, but his face was well hid by the sombrero, andhis heart was throbbing. When the light of the lantern passed over himhe felt as if he were seared by a flame, but the officer had nosuspicion, and with a gruff "Pass on" he withdrew from the bank with hismen. Benito nodded to Ned and they pulled again into the center of LaViga. Neither spoke. Nor did the woman. 

Ned bent on the oar with renewed strength. He felt that the greatest ofhis dangers was now passed, and the relief of the spirit brought freshstrength. The night lightened yet more. He saw on the low banks of thecanal green shrubs and many plants with spikes and thorns. It seemed tohim characteristic of Mexico that nearly everything should have itsspikes and thorns. Through the gray night showed the background of thedistant mountains. 

They overtook and passed two other bergantins returning from the cityand they met a third on its way thither with vegetables for the morningmarket. Benito knew the owners and exchanged a brief word with everyoneas he passed. Ned pulled silently at his oar. 

When it was far past midnight Ned felt a cool breeze rising. Benitobegan to unfurl the sail. 

"You have pulled well, young señor, " he said to Ned, "but the oar isneeded no more. Now the wind will work for us. You will sleep and Carloswill help me. "

He awoke the elder of the two boys. Ned was so tired that his armsached, and he was glad to rest. He wrapped his heavy serape abouthimself, lay down on the bottom of the boat, pillowed his head on hisarm, and went to sleep. 

When he awoke, it was day and they were floating on a broad sheet ofshallow water, which he knew instinctively was Xochimilco. The wind wasstill blowing, and one of the boys steered the bergantin. Benito, Juanaand the other boy sat up, with their faces turned toward the rosymorning light, as if they were sun-worshipers. Ned also felt theinspiration. The world was purer and clearer here than in the city. Inthe early morning the grayish, lonely tint which is the prevailing noteof Mexico, did not show. The vegetation was green, or it was tinted withthe glow of the sun. Near the lower shores he saw the Chiampas orfloating gardens. 

Benito turned the bergantin into a cove, and they went ashore. Hishouse, flat roofed and built of adobe, was near, standing in a field, filled with spiky and thorny plants. They gave Ned a breakfast, theordinary peasant fare of the country, but in abundance, and then thewoman, who seemed to be in a sense the spokesman of the family, saidvery gravely:

"You are a good boy, Weel-le-am, and you rowed well. What more do youwish of us?"

Benito also bent his dark eyes upon him in serious inquiry. Ned was notprepared for any reply. He did not know just what to do and on impulsehe answered:

"I would stay with you a while and work. You will not find me lazy. "

He waved his hand toward the spiky and thorny field. Benito consultedbriefly with his wife and they agreed. For three or four days Ned toiledin the hot field with Benito and the boys and at night he slept on thefloor of earth. The work was hard and it made his body sore. The foodwas of the roughest, but these things were trifles compared with thegift of freedom which he had received. How glorious it was to breathethe fresh air and to have only the sky for a roof and the horizon forwalls!

Benito and the older boy again took the bergantin loaded with vegetablesup La Viga to the city. They did not suggest that Ned go with them. Heremained working in the field, and trying to think of some way in whichhe could obtain money for a journey. The wind was good, the bergantintraveled fast, and Benito and his boy returned speedily. Benito greetedNed with a grave salute, but said nothing until an hour later, when theysat by a fire outside the hut, eating the tortillas and frijoles whichJuana had cooked for them. 

"What is the news in the capital?" asked Ned. 

Benito pondered his reply. 

"The President, the protector of us all, the great General Santa Anna, grows more angry at the Texans, the wild Americans who have come intothe wilderness of the far North, " he replied. "They talk of an armygoing soon against them, and they talk, too, of a daring escape. "

He paused and contemplatively lit a cigarrito. 

"What was the escape?" asked Ned, the pulse in his wrist beginning tobeat hard. 

"One of the Texans, whom the great Santa Anna holds, but a boy they sayhe was, though fierce, slipped between the bars of his window and isgone. They wish to get him back; they are anxious to take him again forreasons that are too much for Benito. "

"Do you think they will find him?"

"How do I know? But they say he is yet in the capital, and there is areward of one hundred good Spanish dollars for the one who will bringhim in, or who will tell where he is to be found. "

Benito quietly puffed at his cigarrito and Juana, the cooking beingover, threw ashes on the coals. 

"If he is still hiding within reach of Santa Anna's arm, " said Ned, "somebody is sure to betray him for the reward. "

"I do not know, " said Benito, tossing away the stub of his cigarrito. Then he rose and began work in the field. 

Ned went out with the elder boy, Carlos, and caught fish. They did notreturn until twilight, and the others were already waiting placidlywhile Juana prepared their food. None of them could read; they hadlittle; their life was of the most primitive, but Ned noticed that theynever spoke cross words to one another. They seemed to him to beentirely content. 

After supper they sat on the ground in front of the adobe hut. Theevening was clear and already many stars were coming into a blue sky. The surface of the lake was silver, rippling lightly. Benito smokedluxuriously. 

"I saw this afternoon a friend of mine, Miguel Lampridi, " he said aftera while. "He had just come down La Viga from the city. "

"What news did he bring?" asked Edward. 

"They are still searching everywhere for the young Texan who wentthrough the window--Eduardo Fulton is his name. Truly General Santa Annamust have his reasons. The reward has been doubled. "

"Poor lad, " spoke Juana, who spoke seldom. "It may be that the youngTexan is not as bad as they say. But it is much money that they offer. Someone will find him. "

"It may be, " said Benito. Then they sat a long time in silence. Juanawas the first to go into the house and to bed. After a while the twoboys followed. Another half hour passed, and Ned rose. 

"I go, Benito, " he said. "You and your wife have been good to me, and Icannot bring misfortune upon you. Why is it that you did not betray me?The reward is large. You would have been a rich man here. "

Benito laughed low. 

"Yes, it would have been much money, " he replied, "but what use have Ifor it? I have the wife I wish, and my sons are good sons. We do not gohungry and we sleep well. So it will be all the days of our life. Twohundred silver dollars would bring two hundred evil spirits among us. Thy face, young Texan, is a good face. I think so and my wife, Juana, who knows, says so. Yet it is best that you go. Others will soon learn, and it is hard to live between close stone walls, when the free world isso beautiful. I will call Juana, and she, too, will tell you farewell. We would not drive you away, but since you choose to go, you shall notleave without a kind word, which may go with you as a blessing on yourway. "

He called at the door of the adobe hut. Juana came forth. She was stout, and she had never been beautiful, but her face seemed very pleasant toNed, as she asked the Holy Virgin to watch over him in his wanderings. 

"I have five silver dollars, " said Benito. "They are yours. They willmake the way shorter. "

But Ned refused absolutely to accept them. He would not take the storeof people who had been so kind to him. Instead he offered the singledollar that he had left for a heavy knife like a machete. Benito broughtit to him and reluctantly took the dollar. 

"Do not try the northern way, Texan, " he said, "it is too far. Go overthe mountains to Vera Cruz, where you will find passage on a ship. "

It seemed good advice to Ned, and, although the change of plan wasabrupt, he promised to take it. Juana gave him a bag of food which hefastened to his belt under his serape, and at midnight, with theblessing of the Holy Virgin invoked for him again, he started. Fiftyyards away he turned and saw the man and woman standing before theirdoor and gazing at him. He waved his hand and they returned the salute. He walked on again a little mist before his eyes. They had been verykind to him, these poor people of another race. 

He walked along the shore of the lake for a long time, and then bore intoward the east, intending to go parallel with the great road to VeraCruz. His step was brisk and his heart high. He felt more courage andhope than at any other time since he had dropped from the prison. He hadfood for several days, and the possession of the heavy knife was a greatcomfort. He could slash with it, as with a hatchet. 

He walked steadily for hours. The road was rough, but he was young andstrong. Once he crossed the pedregal, a region where an old lava flowhad cooled, and which presented to his feet numerous sharp edges likethose of a knife. He had good shoes with heavy soles and he knew theirvalue. On the long march before him they were worth as much as bread andweapons, and he picked his way as carefully as a walker on a tight rope. He was glad when he had crossed the dangerous pedregal and entered acypress forest, clustering on a low hill. Grass grew here also, and herested a while, wrapped in his serape against the coldness of the night. 

He saw behind and now below him the city, the towers of the churchesoutlined against the sky. It was from some such place as this thatCortez and his men, embarked upon the world's most marvelous adventure, had looked down for the first time upon the ancient city ofTenochtitlan. But it did not beckon to Ned. It seemed to him that amighty menace to his beloved Texas emanated from it. And he must warnthe Texans. 

He sprang to his feet and resumed his journey. At the eastern edge ofthe hill he came upon a beautiful little spring, leaping from the rock. He drank from it and went on. Lower down he saw some adobe huts amongthe cypresses and cactus. No doubt their occupants were sound asleep, but for safety's sake he curved away from them. Dogs barked, and whenthey barked again the sound showed they were coming nearer. He ran, rather from caution than fear, because if the dogs attacked he wished tobe so far away from the huts that their owners would not be awakened. 

Now he gave thanks that he had the machete. He thrust his hands underthe serape and clasped its strong handle. It was a truly formidableweapon. He came to another little hill, also clothed in cypress, andbegan to ascend it with decreased speed. The baying of the dogs wasgrowing much louder. They were coming fast. Near the summit he saw aheap of rock, probably an Aztec tumulus, six or seven feet high. Nedsmiled with satisfaction. Pressed by danger his mind was quick. He waswhere he would make his defense, and he did not think it would need tobe a long one. 

He settled himself well upon the top of the tumulus and drew hismachete. The dogs, six in number, coursed among the cypresses, and theleader, foam upon his mouth, leaped straight at Ned. The boyinvoluntarily drew up his feet a little, but he was not shaken from thecrouching position that was best suited to a blow. As the hound was inmid-air he swung the machete with all his might and struck straight atthe ugly head. The heavy blade crashed through the skull and the dogfell dead without a sound. Another which leaped also, but not so far, received a deep cut across the shoulder. It fell back and retreated withthe others among the cypresses, where the unwounded dogs watched withred eyes the formidable figure on the rocks. 

But Ned did not remain on the tumulus more than a few minutes longer. When he sprang down the dogs growled, but he shook the machete until itglittered in the moonlight. With howls of terror they fled, while heresumed his journey in the other direction. 

Near morning he came into country which seemed to him very wild. Thesoil was hard and dry, but there was a dense growth of giant cactus, with patches here and there of thorny bushes. Guarding well against thespikes and thorns he crept into one of the thickets and lay down. Hemust rest and sleep and already the touch of rose in the east washeralding the dawn. Sleep by day and flight by night. He was satisfiedwith himself. He had really succeeded better so far than he had hoped, and, guarded by the spikes and thorns, slumber took him before dawn hadspread from east to west. 

CHAPTER IV

THE PALM

Ned awoke about noon. The morning had been cold, but having been wrappedvery thoroughly in the great serape, he had remained snug and warm allthrough his long sleep. He rose very cautiously, lest the spikes andthorns should get him, and then went to a comparatively open place amongthe giant cactus stems whence he could see over the hills and valleys. He saw in the valley nearest him the flat roofs of a small village. Columns of smoke rose from two or three of the adobe houses, and heheard the faint, mellow voices of men singing in a field. Women by theside of a small but swift stream were pounding and washing clothes afterthe primitive fashion. 

Looking eastward he saw hills and a small mountain, but all the countryin that direction seemed to be extremely arid and repellent. The barebasalt of volcanic origin showed everywhere, and, even at the distance, he could see many deep quarries in the stone, where races older, doubtless, than Aztecs and Toltecs, had obtained material for building. It was always Ned's feeling when in Mexico that he was in an old, oldland, not ancient like England or France, but ancient as Egypt andBabylon are ancient. 

He had calculated his course very carefully, and he knew that it wouldlead through this desert, volcanic region, but on the whole he was notsorry. Mexicans would be scarce in such a place. He remained a lad ofstout heart, confident that he would succeed. 

He ate sparingly and reckoned that with self-denial he had food enoughto last three days. He might obtain more on the road by some happychance or other. Then becoming impatient he started again, keeping wellamong cypress and cactus, and laying his course toward the smallmountain that he saw ahead. He pressed forward the remainder of theafternoon, coming once or twice near to the great road that led to VeraCruz. On one occasion he saw a small body of soldiers, deep in dust, marching toward the port. All except the officers were peons and theydid not seem to Ned to show much martial ardor. But the officers onhorseback sternly bade them hasten. Ned, as usual, had much sympathy forthe poor peasants, but none for the officers who drove them on. 

About sunset he came to a little river, the Teotihuacan he learnedafterward, and he still saw before him the low mountain, the name ofwhich was Cerro Gordo. But his attention was drawn from the mountain bytwo elevations rising almost at the bank of the river. They werepyramidal in shape and truncated, and the larger, which Ned surmised tobe anywhere from 500 to 1000 feet square, seemed to rise to a height oftwo or three hundred feet. The other was about two-thirds the size ofthe larger, both in area and height. 

Although there was much vegetation clinging about them Ned knew thatthese were pyramids erected by the hand of man. The feeling that thiswas a land old like Egypt came back to him most powerfully in thepresence of these ancient monuments, which were in fact the Pyramid ofthe Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. There they stood, desolate and ofuntold age. The setting sun poured an intense red light upon them, until they stood out vivid and enlarged. 

So far as Ned knew, no other human being was anywhere near. Theloneliness in the presence of those tremendous ruins was overpowering. He longed for human companionship. A peon, despite the danger otherwise, would have been welcome. The whole land took on fantastic aspects. Itwas not normal and healthy like the regions from which he came north ofthe Rio Grande. Every nerve quivered. 

Then he did the bravest thing that one could do in such a position, forcing his will to win a victory over weirdness and superstition. Hecrossed the shallow river and advanced boldly toward the Pyramid of theSun. His reason told him that there were no such things as ghosts, butit told him also that Mexican peons were likely to believe in them. Hence it was probable that he would be safer about the Pyramid than farfrom it. The country bade fair to become too rough for night travelingand he would stop there a while, refreshing his strength. 

Although the sun was setting, the color of the skies promised a brightnight, and Ned approached boldly. As usual his superstitious fearsbecame weaker as he approached the objects that had called them intoexistence. But before he reached the pyramids he found that he was amongmany ruins. They stood all about him, stone fragments of ancient walls, black basalt or lava, and, unless the twilight deceived him, there werealso traces of ancient streets. He saw, too, south of the largerpyramids a great earthwork or citadel thirty or forty feet highenclosing a square in which stood a small pyramid. The walls of theearthwork were enormously thick, three hundred feet Ned reckoned, andupon it at regular intervals stood other small pyramids fourteen innumber. 

Scattered all about, alone or in groups, were tumuli, and leading awayfrom the largest group of tumuli Ned saw a street or causeway, which, passing by the Pyramid of the Sun, ended in front of the Pyramid of theMoon, where it widened out into a great circle, with a tumulus standingin the center. 

Despite all the courage that he had shown Ned felt a superstitiousthrill as he looked at these ancient and solemn ruins. He and they wereabsolutely alone. Antiquity looked down upon him. The sun was gone nowand the moon was coming out, touching pyramids and tumuli, earthworksand causeway with ghostly silver, deepening the effect of loneliness andfar-off time. 

While Ned was looking at these majestic remains he heard the sound ofvoices, and then the rattle of weapons. He saw through the twilight theglitter of uniforms and of swords and sabers. A company of Mexicansoldiers, at least a hundred in number, had come into the ancient cityand, no doubt, intended to camp there. Being so absorbed in the strangeruins he had not noticed them sooner. 

As the men were already scattering in search of firewood or other needsof the camp Ned saw that he was in great danger. He hid behind atumulus, half covered by the vegetation that had grown from itscrevices. He was glad that his serape was of a modest brown, instead ofthe bright colors that most of the Mexicans loved. A soldier passedwithin ten feet of him, but in the twilight did not notice him. It wasenough to make one quiver. Another passed a little later, and he, too, failed to see the fugitive. But a third, if he came, would probablysee, and leaving the tumulus Ned ran to another where he hid again fora few minutes. 

It was the boy's object to make off through the neighboring forest afterpassing from tumulus to tumulus, but he found soon that another body ofsoldiers was camping upon the far side of the ruined city. He might ormight not run the gauntlet in the darkness. The probabilities were thathe would not, and hiding behind a tumulus almost midway between the twoforces he took thought of his next step. 

The Pyramid of the Moon rose almost directly before him, its truncatedmass spotted with foliage. Ned could see that its top was flat andinstantly he took a bold resolution. He made his way to the base of thepyramid and began to climb slowly and with great care, always keepinghidden in the vegetation. He was certain that no Mexican would followwhere he was going. They were on other business, and their incuriousminds bothered little about a city that was dead and gone for them. 

Up he went steadily over uneven terraces, and from below he heard thechatter of the soldiers. A third fire had been lighted much nearer thepyramid, and pausing a moment he looked down. Twenty or thirty soldierswere scattered about this fire. Their muskets were stacked and they weretaking their ease. Discipline was relaxed. One man was strumming amandolin already, and two or three began to sing. But Ned saw sentinelswalking among the tumuli and along the Calle de los Muertos which ledfrom the Citadel to the southern front of the Pyramid of the Moon. Hewas very glad now that he had sought this lofty refuge, and he renewedhis climb. 

As he drew himself upon another terrace he saw before him a dark openinginto the very mass of the pyramid, which was built either of brick orof stone, he could not tell which. He thought once of creeping in and ofhiding there, but after taking a couple of steps into the dark he drewback. He was afraid of plunging into some well and he continued theascent. He was now about sixty or seventy feet up, but he was not yethalf way to the top of the pyramid. 

He was so slow and cautious that it took more than a half hour to reachthe crest, where he found himself upon a platform about twenty feetsquare. It was an irregular surface with much vegetation growing fromthe crevices, and here Ned felt quite safe. Near him and sixty feetabove him rose the crest of the Pyramid of the Sun. Beyond were rangesof mountains silvery in the moonlight. He walked to the edge of thepyramid and looked down. Four or five fires were burning now, and thesingle mandolin had grown to four. Several guitars were being pluckedvigorously also, and the sound of the instruments joined with that ofthe singing voices was very musical and pleasant. These Mexicans seemedto be full of good nature, and so they were, with fire, food and musicin plenty, but now that he had been their prisoner Ned never forgot howthat dormant and Spanish strain of cruelty in their natures could flamehigh under the influence of passion. The dungeons of Spanish Mexico andof the new Mexico hid many dark stories, and he believed that he hadread what lay behind the smiling mask of Santa Anna's face. He wouldsuffer everything to keep out of Mexican hands. 

He crept away from the edge of the pyramid, and chose a place near itscenter for his lofty camp. There was much vegetation growing out of theancient masonry, and he had a fear of scorpions and of more dangerousreptiles, perhaps, but he thrashed up the grass and weeds well with hismachete. Then he sat down and ate his supper. Fortunately he had drunkcopiously at a brook before reaching the ruined city and he did notsuffer from thirst. 

Then, relying upon the isolation of his perch for safety, he wrappedhimself in the invaluable serape and lay down. The night was cold asusual, and a sharp wind blew down from northern peaks and ranges, butNed, protected by vegetation and the heavy serape, had an extraordinaryfeeling of warmth and snugness as he lay on the old pyramid. Held solong within close walls the wild freedom and the fresh air that cameacross seas and continents were very grateful to him. Even the presenceof an enemy, so near, and yet, as it seemed, so little dangerous, addeda certain piquancy to his position. The pleasant tinkle of the mandolinswas wafted upward to him, and it was wonderfully soothing, telling ofpeace and rest. He inhaled the aromatic odors of strange and floweringsouthern plants, and his senses were steeped in a sort of luxuriouscalm. 

He fell asleep to the music of the mandolin, and when he awoke such abright sun was shining in his eyes that he was glad to close and openthem again several times before they would tolerate the brilliantMexican sky that bent above him. He lay still about five minutes, listening, and then, to his disappointment, he heard sounds below. Hejudged by the position of the sun that it must be at least 10 o'clock inthe morning, and the Mexicans should be gone. Yet they were undoubtedlystill there. He crept to the edge of the pyramid and looked over. Therewas the Mexican force, scattered about the ruined city, but camped ingreatest numbers along the Calle de los Muertos. Their numbers had beenincreased by two hundred or three hundred, and, as Ned saw no signs ofbreaking camp, he judged that this was a rendezvous, and that there weremore troops yet to come. 

He saw at once that his problem was increased greatly. He could notdream of leaving the summit of the pyramid before the next night came. Food he had in plenty but no water, and already as the hot sun's raysapproached the vertical he felt a great thirst. Imagination and theknowledge that he could not allay it for the present at least, increasedthe burning sensation in his throat and the dryness of his lips. Hecaught a view of the current of the Teotihuacan, the little river by theside of which the pyramids stand, and the sight increased his torments. He had never seen before such fresh and pure water. It sparkled andraced in the sun before him and it looked divine. And yet it was as farout of his reach as if it were all the way across Mexico. 

Ned went back to the place where he had slept and sat down. The sight ofthe river had tortured him, and he felt better when it was shut fromview. Now he resolved to see what could be accomplished by will. Heundertook to forget the water, and at times he succeeded, but, despitehis greatest efforts, the Teotihuacan would come back now and then withthe most astonishing vividness. Although he was lying on the serape withbushes and shrubs all around, there was the river visible to the eye ofimagination, brighter, fresher and more sparkling than ever. He couldnot control his fancy, but will ruled the body and he did not stir fromhis place for hours. The sun beat fiercely upon him and the thin bushesand shrubs afforded little protection. Toward the northern edge of thepyramid a small palm was growing out of a large crevice in the masonry, and it might have given some shade, but it was in such an exposedposition that Ned did not dare to use it for fear of discovery. 

How he hated that sun! It seemed to be drying him up, through andthrough, causing the very blood in his veins to evaporate. Why shouldsuch hot days follow such cold nights? When his tongue touched the roofof his mouth it felt rough and hot like a coal. Perhaps the Mexicans hadgone away. It seemed to him that he had not heard any sounds from themfor some time. He went to the edge of the pyramid and looked over. No, the Mexicans were yet there, and the sight of them filled him with afierce anger. They were enjoying themselves. Tents were scattered aboutand shelters of boughs had been erected. Many soldiers were taking theirsiestas. Nobody was working and there was not the slightest sign thatthey intended to depart that day. Ned's hot tongue clove to the roof ofhis hot mouth, but he obstinately refused to look at the river. He didnot think that he could stand another sight of it. 

He went back to his little lair among the shrubs and prayed for night, blessed night with its cooling touch. He had a horrible apprehensionwhich amounted to conviction that the troops would stay there forseveral days, awaiting some maneuver or perhaps making it a rallyingpoint, and that in his hiding place on the pyramid he was in as bad caseas a sailor cast on a desert island without water. Nothing seemed leftfor him but to steal down and try to escape in darkness. Thus nightwould be doubly welcome and he prayed for it again and with renewedfervor. 

Some hours are ten times as long as others, but the longest of all cometo an end at last. The sun began to droop in the west. The verticalglare was gone, yet the masonry where it was bare was yet hot to thetouch. It, too, cooled soon. The sun dropped wholly down and darknesscame over all the earth. Then the fever in Ned's throat died downsomewhat, and the blood began to flow again in his veins. It seemed asif a dew touched his face, delicious, soothing like drops of rain in theburning desert. 

He rose and stretched his stiffened limbs. Overhead spread the dark, cool sky, and the bright stars were coming out, one by one. After thefirst few moments of relief he heard the cry for water again. Despitethe night and the coming chill he knew that it would make itself heardoften and often, and he began to study the possibilities of a descent. But he saw the fires spread out again on all sides of the Pyramid of theSun and the Pyramid of the Moon and flame thickly along the Calle de losMuertos. It did not seem that he could pass even on the blackest night. 

He moved over toward the northern edge of the pyramid, and stood underthe palm which he had noticed in the day. One of its broad green leaves, swayed by the wind, touched him softly on the face. He looked up. It wasa friendly palm. Its very touch was kindly. He stroked the blades andthen he examined the stem or body minutely. He was a studious boy whohad read much. He had heard of the water palm of the Hawaiian and otherSouth Sea Islands. Might not the water palm be found in Mexico also? Inany event, he had never heard of a palm that was poisonous. They werealways givers of life. 

He raised the machete and slashed the stem of the palm at a point aboutfive feet from the ground. The wound gaped open and a stream of watergushed forth. Ned applied his mouth at once and drank long and deeply. It was not poison, nor was it any bitter juice. This was the genuinewater palm, yielding up the living fluid of its arteries for him. Hedrank as long as the gash gave forth water and then sat down under theblades of the palm, content and thankful, realizing that there wasalways hope in the very heart of despair. 

Ned sat a long time, feeling the new life rushing into his veins. He atefrom the food of which he had a plentiful supply and once more gavethanks to Benito and Juana. Then he stood up and the broad leaves of thepalm waving gently in the wind touched his face again. He reached up hishand and stroked them. The palm was to him almost a thing of life. Hewent to the edge of the pyramid and strove for a sight of theTeotihuacan. He caught at last a flash of its waters in the moonlightand he shook his fist in defiance. "I can do without you now, " was histhought. "The sight of you does not torture me. "

He returned to his usual place of sleep. As long as he had a watersupply it was foolish of him to attempt an escape through the Mexicanlines. He was familiar now with every square inch of the twenty feetsquare of the crowning platform of the pyramid. It seemed that he hadbeen there for weeks and he began to have the feeling that it was home. Once more, hunger and thirst satisfied, he sought sleep and slept withthe deep peace of youth. 

Ned awoke from his second night on the pyramid before dawn was complete. There was silvery light in the east over the desolate ranges, but thewest was yet a dark blur. He looked down and saw that nearly all thesoldiers were still asleep, while those who did not sleep were asmotionless as if they were. In the half light the lost city, the tumuliand the ruins of the old buildings took on strange and fantastic shapes. The feeling that he was among the dead, the dead for many centuries, returned to Ned with overpowering effect. He thought of Aztec and Toltecand people back of all these who had built this city. The Mexicans belowwere intruders like himself. 

He shook himself as if by physical effort he could get rid of thefeeling and then went to the water palm in which he cut another gash. Again the fountain gushed forth and he drank. But the palm was a smallone. There was too little soil among the crevices of the ancient masonryto support a larger growth, and he saw that it could not satisfy histhirst more than a day or two. But anything might happen in that time, and his courage suffered no decrease. 

He retreated toward the center of the platform as the day was now comingfast after the southern fashion. The whole circle of the heavens seemedto burst into a blaze of light, and, in a few hours, the sun was hotterthan it had been before. Many sounds now came from the camp below, butNed, although he often looked eagerly, saw no signs of coming departure. Shortly after noon there was a great blare of trumpets, and a detachmentof lancers rode up. They were large men, mounted finely, and the headsof their long lances glittered as they brandished them in the sun. 

Ned's attention was drawn to the leader of this new detachment, anofficer in most brilliant uniform, and he started. He knew him at once. It was the brother-in-law of Santa Anna, General Martin Perfecto de Cos, a man in whom that old, cruel strain was very strong, and whom Nedbelieved to be charged with the crushing of the Texans. Then he wasright in his surmise that Mexican forces for the campaign weregathering here on the banks of the Teotihuacan!

More troops came in the afternoon, and the boy no longer had theslightest doubt. The camp spread out further and further, and assumedmilitary form. Not so many men were lounging about and the tinkling ofthe guitars ceased. Ned could see General de Cos plainly, a heavy man ofdark face, autocratic and domineering in manner. 

Night came and the boy went once more to the palm. When he struck withhis machete the water came forth, but in a much weaker stream. Inreality he was yet thirsty after he drank the full flow, but he wouldnot cut into the stem again. He knew that he must practice the severesteconomy with his water supply. 

The third night came and as soon as he was safe from observation Nedslashed the palm once more. The day had been very hot and his thirst wasgreat. The water come forth but with only half the vigor of the morning, which itself had shown a decrease. The poor palm, too, trembled andshook when he cut into it with the machete and the blades drooped. Neddrank what it supplied and then turned away regretfully. It was a kindlypalm, a gift to man, and yet he must slay it to save his own life. 

He lay down again, but he did not sleep as well as usual. His nerveswere upset by the long delay, and the decline of the palm, and he wasnot refreshed when he awoke in the morning. His head felt hot and hislimbs were heavy. 

As it was not yet bright daylight he went to the palm and cut into it. The flow of water was only a few mouthfuls. Cautious and doublyeconomical now he pursed his lips that not a single drop might escape. Then, after eating a little food he lay down, protected as much aspossible by the scanty bushes, and also sheltering himself at times fromthe sun with the serape which he drew over his head. He feltinstinctively and with the power of conviction that the Mexicans wouldnot depart. The coming of Cos had taken the hope from him. Cos! He hatedthe short, brusque name. 

It was another day of dazzling brightness and intense heat. Certainlythis was a vertical sun. It shot rays like burning arrows straight down. The blood in his veins seemed to dry up again. His head grew hotter. Black specks in myriads danced before his eyes. He looked longingly athis palm. When he first saw it, it stood up, vital and strong. Now itseemed to droop and waver like himself. But it would have enough life tofill its veins and arteries through the day and at night he would haveanother good drink. 

He scarcely stirred throughout the day but spent most of the timelooking at the palm. He paid no attention to the sounds below, sure thatthe Mexicans would not go away. He fell at times into a sort of feveredstupor, and he aroused himself from the last one to find that night hadcome. He took his machete, went to the tree, and cut quickly, becausehis thirst was very great. 

The gash opened, but not a drop came forth. 

CHAPTER V

IN THE PYRAMID

Ned stared, half in amazement, half in despair. Yet he had known all thewhile that this would happen. The palm had emptied every drop from itsveins and arteries for him, giving life for life. He had cut so deeplyand so often that it would wither now and die. He turned away insadness, and suddenly a bitter, burning thirst assailed him. It seemedto have leaped into new life with the knowledge that there was nothingnow to assuage it. 

The boy sat down on a small projection of brickwork, and considered hiscase. He had been more than twelve hours without water under a fiercesun. His thirst would not increase so fast at night, but it wouldincrease, nevertheless, and the Mexican force might linger below a week. Certainly its camp was of such a character that it would remain at leasttwo or three days, and any risk was preferable to a death of thirst. Hecould wait no longer. 

Now chance which had been so cruel flung a straw his way. The night wasdarker than usual. The moon and stars did not come out, and troops ofclouds stalked up from the southwest. Ned knew that it was a land oflittle rain, and for a few moments he had a wild hope that in somemanner he might catch enough water for his use on the crest of thepyramid. But reason soon drove the hope away. There was no depressionwhich would hold water, and he resolved instead to make the descentunder cover of the darkness. 

When he had come to this resolution the thirst was not so fierce. Indecision being over, both his physical and mental courage rose. He ateand had left enough food to last for two days, which he fastenedsecurely in a pack to his body. Then, machete in hand, he looked overthe edge of the pyramid. There was some noise in the camp, but most ofthe soldiers seemed to be at rest. Lights flickered here and there, andthe ruined city, showing only in fragments through the darkness, lookedmore ghostly and mournful than ever. 

Ned waited a long time. Drops of rain began to fall, and the wind moanedwith an almost human note around the pyramids and old walls. The rainincreased a little, but it never fell in abundance. It and the wind werevery cold, and Ned drew the serape very closely about his body. He wasanxious now for time to pass fast, because he was beginning to feelafraid, not of the Mexicans, but of the dead city, and the ghosts ofthose vanished long ago, although he knew there were no such things. Butthe human note in the wind grew until it was like a shriek, and thisshriek was to him a warning that he must go. The pyramid had been hissalvation, but his time there was at an end. 

He drew the sombrero far down over his eyes, and once more calculatedthe chances. He spoke Spanish well, and he spoke its Mexican variationsequally well. If they saw him he might be able to pass for a Mexican. Hemust succeed. 

He lowered himself from the crowning platform of the pyramid and beganthe descent. The cold rain pattered upon him and his body was weak fromprivation, but his spirit was strong, and with steady hand and foot hewent down. He paused several times to look at the camp. Five or sixfires still burned there, but they flickered wildly in the wind andrain. He judged that the sentinels would not watch well. For what mustthey watch, there in the heart of their own country?

But as he approached the bottom he saw two of these sentinels walkingback and forth, their bayonets reflecting a flicker now and then fromthe flames. He saw also five or six large white tents, and he was quitesure that the largest sheltered at that instant Martin Perfecto de Cos, whom he wished very much to avoid. He intended, when he reached thebottom, to keep as close as he could in the shadow of the pyramid, andthen seek the other side of the Teotihuacan. 

The rain was still blown about by the wind, and it was very cold. Butthe influence of both wind and rain were inspiring to the boy. They werea tonic to body and mind, and he grew bolder as he came nearer to theground. At last he stepped upon the level earth, and stood for a littlewhile black and motionless against the pyramid. 

He was aware that the cordon of Cos' army completely enclosed thePyramid of the Moon, the Pyramid of the Sun, the Calle de los Muertosand the other principal ruins, and he now heard the sentinels much moredistinctly as they walked back and forth. Straining his eyes he couldsee two of them, short, sallow men, musket on shoulder. The beat of onelay directly across the path that he had chosen, reaching from the faredge of the Pyramid of the Moon to a point about twenty yards away. Hebelieved that when this sentinel marched to the other end of his beat hecould slip by. At any rate, if he were seen he might make a successfulflight, and he slipped his hand to the handle of the machete in hisbelt in order that he might be ready for resistance. 

He saw presently two or three dark heaps near him, and as his eyes grewused to the darkness he made out camp equipage and supplies. Thesmallest heap which was also nearest to him, consisted of large metalcanteens for water, such as soldiers of that day carried. His thirstsuddenly made itself manifest again. Doubtless those canteens containedwater, and his body which wanted water so badly cried aloud for it. 

It was not recklessness but a burning thirst which caused him to creeptoward the little heap of canteens at the imminent risk of beingdiscovered. When he reached them he lay flat on the ground and took onefrom the top. He knew by its lack of weight that it was empty, and helaid it aside. Then he paused for a glance at the sentinel who was stillwalking steadily on his beat, and whom he now saw very clearly. 

He was disappointed to find the first canteen empty, but he wasconvinced that some in that heap must contain water, and he wouldpersevere. The second and third failed him in like manner, but he wouldyet persevere. The fourth was heavy, and when he shook it gently heheard the water plash. That thirst at once became burning anduncontrollable. The cry of his body to be assuaged overpowered his will, and while deadly danger menaced he unscrewed the little mouthpiece anddrank deep and long. It was not cold and perhaps a little mud lurked atthe bottom of the canteen, but like the gift of the water palm itbrought fresh life and strength. 

He put down the canteen half empty and took another from the heap. It, too, proved to be filled, and he hung it around neck and shoulder by thestrap provided for that purpose. He could have found no more preciousobject for the dry regions through which he intended to make hisjourney. 

Ned went back toward the pyramid, but his joy over finding the watermade him a little careless. Great fragments of stone lay abouteverywhere, and his foot slipped on a piece of black basalt. He fell andthe metal of his canteen rang against the stone. 

He sprang to his feet instantly, but the sentinel had taken the alarmand as Ned's sombrero had slipped back he saw the fair face. He knewthat it was the face of no Mexican, and shouting "Gringo!" he firedstraight at him. Luckily, haste and the darkness prevented good aim, although he was at short range. But Ned felt the swish of the bullet soclose to him that every nerve jumped, and he jumped with them. The firstjump took him half way to the pyramid and the next landed him at itsbase. There the second nearest sentinel fired at him and he heard thebullet flatten itself against the stone. 

Fortunately for Ned, the silent, thoughtful lad, he had often tried toimagine what he would do in critical junctures, and now, despite theterrible crisis, he was able to take control of his nerves. Heremembered to pull the sombrero down over his face and to keep close tothe pyramid. The shots had caused an uproar in the camp. Men wererunning about, lights were springing up, and officers were shoutingorders. A single fugitive among so many confused pursuers might yet passfor one of them. Chance which had been against him was now for him. Thewind suddenly took a wilder sweep and the rain lashed harder. He leftthe pyramid and darted behind a tumulus. He stood there quietly andheard the uproar of the hunt at other points. Presently he slouchedaway in the manner of a careless peon, with his serape drawn about chinas well as body, for which the wind and the rain were a fitting excuse. He also shouted and chattered occasionally with others, and none knewthat he was the Gringo at whom the two sentinels had fired. 

Ned thought to make a way through the lines, but so many lights nowflared up on all the outskirts that he saw it was impossible. 

He turned back again to the side of the pyramid, where he was almosthidden by débris and foliage. Two or three false alarms had been soundedon the other side of the great structure, and practically the whole mobof searchers was drawn away in that direction. He formed a quickdecision. He would reascend the pyramid. And he would take with him awater supply in the canteen that he still carried over his shoulder. Hebegan to climb, and he noticed as he went up that it was almost theexact point at which he had ascended before. 

He heard the tumult below, caught glimpses of lights flashing here andthere, and he ascended eagerly. He was almost half way up when he cameface to face with a Mexican soldier who carried in his hand a smalllantern. The soldier, the only one perhaps who had suspected the pyramidas a place of refuge, had come at another angle, and there on a terracethe two had met. 

They were not more than three feet apart. Ned had put his machete backin his belt that he might climb with more ease, but he hit out at oncewith his clenched right hand. The blow took the Mexican full between theeyes and toppling over backward he dropped the lantern. Then he slid onthe narrow terrace and with an instinctive cry of terror fell. Ned wasseized with horror and took a hasty glance downward. He was relievedwhen he saw that the man, grasping at projections and outgrowingvegetation, was sliding rather than falling, and would not be hurtseriously. 

He turned to his own case. There lay the lantern on the stone, stillglowing. Below rose the tumult, men coming to his side of the pyramid, drawn by his cry. He could no longer reach the top of the pyramidwithout being seen, but he knew another way. He snatched up the lantern, tucked it under his serape and made for the opening which he had noticedin the side of the pyramid at his first ascent. It was scarcely ten feetaway, and he boldly stepped in, a thing that he would never have daredto do had it not been for the happy chance of the lantern. 

His foot rested on solid stone, and he stood wholly in the dark. Yet theuproar came clearly to his ears. It was a certainty now that moresoldiers would ascend the pyramid looking for him, but he believed thatignorance and superstition would keep them from entering it. 

The air that came to his nostrils out of the unknown dark was cold andclean, but he did not yet dare to take out his lantern. He feltcautiously in front of him with one foot and touched a stone step below. He also touched narrow walls with his outstretched hand. He descended tothe step, and then, feeling sure that the light of his lantern could notbe seen from without, he took it from under his serape and held it asfar in front of him as he could. A narrow flight of stone steps ledonward and downward further than he could see, and, driven by imminentnecessity, he walked boldly down them. 

The way was rough with the decay of time from which stone itself cannotescape, but he always steadied himself with one hand against the wall. The stone was very cold and Ned had the feeling that he was in a tomb. Once more he had that overwhelming sense of old, old things, of thingsas old as Egypt. At another time, despite every effort of reason, hewould have thrilled with superstitious terror, but now it was for hislife, and down he went, step by step. 

The air remained pure like that of great caves in the States, and Neddid not stop until a black void seemed to open almost before him when hedrew back in affright. Calming himself he held up the lantern and lookedat the void. It was a deep and square well, its walls faced as far as hecould see with squared stones. His lantern revealed no water in thedepths and he fancied that it had something to do with ceremonials, perhaps with sacrifice. There was a way around the well, but it wasnarrow and he chose to go no further. Instead he crouched on the stepswhere he was safe from a fall, and put the lantern beside him. 

It was an oil lamp. Had he possessed any means of relighting it he wouldhave blown it out, and sought sleep in the dark, but once out, outalways, and he moved it into a little niche of the wall, where no suddendraught could get at it, and where its hidden light would be no beaconto any daring Mexican who might descend the stairway. 

The sense of vast antiquity was still with the boy, but it did notoppress him now as it might have done at another time. His feeling ofrelief, caused by his escape from the Mexicans, was so great that itcreated, for the time at least, a certain buoyancy of the mind. Theunknown depths of the ancient pyramid were at once a shelter and aprotection. He folded the serape, in order to make as soft a couch aspossible, and soon fell asleep. 

When Ned awoke he was lying in exactly the same position on the steps, and the lantern was still burning in the niche. He had no idea how longhe had slept, or whether it was day or night, but he did not care. Hetook the full canteen and drank. It was an unusually large canteen andit contained enough, if he used economy, to last him two days. The coolrecesses of the pyramid's interior did not engender thirst like itsblazing summit. Then he ate, but whether breakfast, dinner or supper hedid not know, nor did he care. 

He was tempted to go up to the entrance of the stairway and see what wasgoing forward in the camp, but he resisted the impulse. For the sake ofcaution he triumphed over curiosity, and remained a long time on thesteps, beside the niche in which his lamp sat. Then he began tocalculate how much longer the oil would last, and he placed the time atabout thirty hours. Surely some decisive event would happen in his favorbefore the last drop was burned. 

After an interminable time the air on the stairway seemed to him to begrowing colder, and he inferred that night had come. Taking the lanternhe climbed the steps and peered out at the ancient doorway. He sawlights below, and he could discern dimly the shapes of tents. Disappointed, he returned to his place on the steps, and, after anotherlong wait, fell asleep again. When he awoke he calculated by the amountof oil left in the lamp that at least twelve hours had passed since hisprevious awakening. 

Once more he made a great effort of the will in order to achieve aconquest over curiosity and impatience. He would not return to theentrance until the oil had only an hour more to burn. Necessity hadproved so stern a master that he was able to keep his resolution. Manylong, long hours passed and sometimes he dozed or slept, but he did notgo to the entrance. The oil at last marked the final hour, and, takingup the lamp, he went back to the entrance. 

Ned looked out and then gave a cry of joy. It was broad daylight, butthe army was gone, soldiers, horses, tents, everything. The Calle de losMuertos was once more what its name meant. Silence and desolation hadregained the ruined city. He blew out the lantern and set it down at theopening. It had served him well. Then he went out and climbed again tothe summit of the pyramid, from which he examined the valley long andwell. 

He saw no signs of human life anywhere. Traces of the camp remained inabundance, but the army itself had vanished. There were no lurking campfollowers to make him trouble. He descended to the ground, and stood awhile, drawing in deep draughts of the fresh daylight air. It had notbeen oppressive in the pyramid, but there is nothing like the open skyabove. He went down to the Teotihuacan, and, choosing a safe place, bathed in its waters. Then he resumed the flight across the hills whichhad been delayed so long. He knew by the sun that it was morning not faradvanced, and he wished to travel many miles before night. He sawabundant evidences on the great highway that the army was marchingtoward Vera Cruz, and as before he traveled on a line parallel with it, but at least a mile away. He passed two sheep herders, but he displayedthe machete, and whistling carelessly went on. They did not follow, andhe was sure that they took him for a bandit whom it would be wise to letalone. 

Ned wandered on for two or three days. In one of his turnings among themountains he lost the Vera Cruz highway, and came out again upon a wide, sandy plain, dotted with scattered cactus. As he was crossing it aNorther came up, and blew with great fierceness. Sand was driven intohis face with such force that it stung like shot. The cold becameintense, and if it had not been for the serape he might have perished. 

The storm was still blowing when he reached the far edge of the plain, and came into extremely rough country, with patches of low, thornyforest. Here he found a dilapidated bark hut, evidently used at times byMexican herdsmen, and, thankful for such shelter, he crept into it andfell asleep. When he awoke he felt very weak. He had eaten the last ofhis food seven or eight hours before. 

Driven by desperate need, Ned ate wild fruits, and, for a while, wasrefreshed, but that night he fell ill, suffering greatly from internalpains. He was afraid at first that he had poisoned himself, and he knewthat he had eaten something not used for food, but by morning the painswere gone, although he was much weaker than before. 

Now he felt for the first time the pangs of despair. It was a full twohundred miles yet to Vera Cruz, and he was in the heart of a hostilecountry. He did not have the strength of a child left, and the chancethat he could deliver his message of warning to the Texans seemed tohave gone. He rambled about all that day, light-headed at times, and, toward evening, he fell into a stupor. Unable to go any further, he sankdown beside a rock, and lapsed wholly into unconsciousness. 

CHAPTER VI

THE MARCH WITH COS

When Ned came to himself he was surrounded by men, and at first hethought he was back among his Texans. He was in a vague and dreamy statethat was not unpleasant, although he was conscious of a great weakness. He knew that he was lying on the ground upon his own serape, and thatanother serape was spread over him. In a little while mind and visiongrew more definite and he saw that the soldiers were Mexicans. After hislong endurance and ingenuity on the pyramid he had practically walkedinto their hands. But such was his apathy of mind and body that itroused no great emotion in him. He closed his eyes for a little while, and then fresh strength poured into his veins. When he opened his eyesagain his interest in life and his situation was of normal keenness. 

They were in a little valley and the soldiers, lancers, seemed to numberabout two hundred. Their horses were tethered near them, and theirlances were stacked in glittering pyramids. It was early morning. Several men were cooking breakfast for the whole troop at large fires. The far edge of the little valley was very rocky and Ned inferred thathe had fallen there by a big outcropping of stone, and that thesoldiers, looking around for firewood, had found him. But they had nottreated him badly, as the serape spread over his body indicated. 

Feeling so much better he sat up. The odor of the cooking made himrealize again that he was fiercely hungry. A Mexican brought him a largetin plate filled with beans and meat chopped small. He ate slowlyalthough only an effort of the will kept him from devouring the foodlike a famished wild animal. The Mexican who had brought him the platestood by and watched him, not without a certain sympathy on his face. Several more Mexicans approached and looked at him with keen curiosity, but they did not say or do anything that would offend the young Gringo. Knowing that it was now useless, Ned no longer made any attempt toconceal his nationality which was evident to all. He finished the plateand handed it back to the Mexican. 

"Many thanks, " he said in the native tongue. 

"More?" said the soldier, looking at him with understanding. 

"I could, without hurting myself, " replied Ned with a smile. 

A second plate and a cup of water were brought to him. He ate and drankin leisurely fashion, and began to feel a certain relief. He imaginedthat he would be returned to imprisonment in the City of Mexico with Mr. Austin. At any rate, he had made a good attempt and another chance mightcome. 

An officer dressed in a very neat and handsome uniform approached andthe other Mexicans fell back respectfully. This man was young, not morethan thirty-two or three, rather tall, fairer than most of his race, andwith a singularly open and attractive face. His dress was that of acolonel, and the boy knew at once that he was commander of the troop. Hesmiled down at Ned, and Ned, despite himself, smiled back. 

"I know you, " said he, speaking perfect English. "You are Edward Fulton, the lad who was held in the prison with Stephen Austin, the Texan, thelad who starved himself that he might slip between the bars of hiswindow. There was much talk at the capital about it, and you were notwithout admirers. You showed so much courage and resource that youdeserved to escape, but we could not let you go. "

"I got lost and I was without food. "

"Rather serious obstacles. They have held many a boy and man. But sinceI know so much about you and you know nothing about me I will tell youwho I am. My name is Juan Nepomuceno Almonte, and I am a colonel in theservice of Mexico and of our great Santa Anna. I was educated in thatUnited States of yours, Texan, though you call yourself. That is why Ispeak the English that you hear. I have friends, too, among yourpeople. "

"Well, Colonel Almonte, " said Ned, "since I had to be recaptured, I'mglad I fell into your hands. "

"I wish I could keep you in them, " he said, "but I am under the commandof General Cos, and I have to rejoin the main force which he leads. "

Ned understood. Cos was a man of another type. But he resolved not toanticipate trouble. Almonte again looked at him curiously, and thenleaning forward said confidentially:

"Tell me, was it you who knocked our soldier down on the side of thepyramid and took his lantern? If it is true, it can't do you any harm toacknowledge it now. "

"Yes, " replied Ned with some pride, "it was I. I came upon him suddenlyand I was as much surprised as he. I hit out on the impulse of themoment, and the blow landed in exactly the right place. I hope he wasnot much hurt. "

"He wasn't, " replied Almonte, laughing with deep unction. "He waspretty well covered with bruises and scratches, but he forgot them inthe awful fright you gave him. He took you to be some demon, somemysterious Aztec god out of a far and dim past, who had smitten him withlightning, because he presumed to climb upon a sacred pyramid. But someof us who were not so credulous, perhaps because we did not have hisbruises and scratches, searched all the sides and the top of thepyramid. We failed to find you and we knew that you could not getthrough our lines. Now, will you tell me where you were?"

His tone was so intent and eager that Ned could not keep from laughing. Besides, the boy had a certain pride in the skill, daring and resourcewith which he had eluded the men of Cos. 

"Did you look inside the pyramid?" he asked. 

"Inside it?"

"Yes, inside. There's an opening sixty or seventy feet above the ground. I took your man's lantern when he dropped it and entered. There's astairway, leading down to a deep, square well, and there's somethingbeyond the well, although I don't know what. I stayed in there untilyour army went away. Before that I had been for two or three days on topof the pyramid, where a little water palm gave up its life to save me. "

Almonte regarded him with wonder. 

"I am not superstitious myself--that is, not unnecessarily so, " he said, "but yours must be a lucky star. After all that, you should haveescaped, and your present capture must be a mere delay. You will slipfrom us again. "

"I shall certainly try, " said Ned hopefully. 

"It is bound to come true, " said Almonte. "All the omens point thatway. "

Ned smiled. Almonte, young, brilliant and generous, had made him almostfeel as if he were a guest and not a prisoner. He did not discern in himthat underlying strain of Spanish cruelty, which passion might bring tothe surface at any moment. It might be due to his youth, or it might bedue to his American education. 

"We march in an hour, " said Almonte. "We are to rejoin General Cos onthe Vera Cruz road, but that will not occur for two or three days. Meanwhile, as the way is rough and you are pretty weak, you can ride ona burro. Sorry I can't get you a horse, but our lancers have none tospare. Still, you'll find a burro surer of foot and more comfortableover the basalt and lava. "

Ned thanked him for his courtesy. He liked this cheerful Mexican betterthan ever. In another hour they started, turning into the Vera Cruzroad, and following often the path by which great Cortez had come. Ned'sburro, little but made of steel, picked the way with unerring foot andnever stumbled once. He rode in the midst of the lancers, who were fullthat day of the Latin joy that came with the sun and the great panoramaof the Mexican uplands. Now and then they sang songs of the South, sometimes Spanish and sometimes Indian, Aztec, or perhaps even Toltec. Ned felt the influence. Once or twice he joined in the air withoutknowing the words, and he would have been happy had it not been for histhoughts of the Texans. 

The courtesy and kindliness of Almonte must not blind him to the factthat he was the bearer of a message to his own people. That messagecould not be more important because its outcome was life and death, andhe watched all the time for a chance to escape. None occurred. Thelancers were always about him, and even if there were an opening hisburro, sure of foot though he might be, could not escape their stronghorses. So he bided his time, for the present, and shared in the gayetyof the men who rode through the crisp and brilliant southern air. Allthe time they ascended, and Ned saw far below him valley after valley, much the same, at the distance, as they were when Cortez and his menfirst gazed upon them more than three hundred years before. Yet the lookof the land was always different from that to which he was used north ofthe Rio Grande. Here as in the great valley of Tenochtitlan it seemedancient, old, old beyond all computation. Here and there, were ruins ofwhich the Mexican peons knew nothing. Sometimes these ruins stood out ona bare slope, and again they were almost hidden by vegetation. In thevalleys Ned saw peons at work with a crooked stick as a plow, and onceor twice they passed swarthy Aztec women cooking tortillas and frijolesin the open air. 

The troop could not advance very rapidly owing to the roughness of theway, and Ned learned from the talk about him that they would notovertake Cos until the evening of the following day. About twilight theyencamped in a slight depression in the mountain side. No tents were set, but a large fire was built, partly of dry stems of the giant cactus. Thecactus burned rapidly with a light, sparkling blaze, and left a whiteash, but the heavier wood, mixed with it, made a bed of coals thatglowed long in the darkness. 

Ned sat beside the fire on his serape with another thrown over hisshoulders, as the night was growing very chill with a sharp windwhistling down from the mountains. The kindness of his captors did notdecrease, and he found a genuine pleasure in the human companionship andphysical comfort. Almonte found a comfortable place, took a guitar outof a silken case, and hummed and played a love song. No American officerwould have done it at such a time and place, but it seemed natural inhim. 

Ned could not keep from being attracted by the picture that hepresented, the handsome young officer bending over his guitar, his heartin the song that he played, but ready at any instant to be the brave andwary soldier. Circumstance and place seemed to the boy so full of wildromance that he forgot, for the time, his own fate and the message thathe wished to bear to those far Texans. 

It was very cold that night on the heights, and, now and then, a littlesnow was blown about by the wind, but Ned kept warm by the fire andbetween the two serapes. He fell asleep to the tinkling of Almonte'sguitar. They started again at earliest dawn, descended the slopes into ahighway to Vera Cruz, and pushed on in the trail of Cos. Ned still rodehis burro, which trotted along faithfully with the best, and he kept aneager eye for the road and all that lay along it. The silent youth hadlearned the value of keen observation, and he never neglected it. 

Before noon Ned saw a dim, white cone rising on the eastern horizon. Itwas far away and misty, a thing of beauty which seemed to hang in theair above the clouds. 

"Orizaba, the great mountain!" said Almonte. 

Ned had seen Popocatepetl and Ixtaccihuatl, but this was a shade loftierand more beautiful than either, shooting up nearly four miles, andvisible to sailors far out at sea. It grew in splendor as theyapproached. Great masses of oak and pine hung on its lofty sides, up theheight of three miles, and above the forest rose the sharp cone, gleaming white with snow. The face of Juan Nepomuceno Almonte flushed ashe gazed at it. 

"It is ours, the great mountain!" he exclaimed. "And the many othermagnificent mountains and the valleys and rivers of Mexico. Can youwonder, then, Edward Fulton, that we Mexicans do not wish to lose anypart of our country? Texas is ours, it has always been ours, and we willnot let the Texans sever it from us!"

"The Texans have not wished to do so, " said Ned. "You have been kind tome, Colonel Almonte, and I do not wish to tell you anything but thetruth. The Texans will fight oppression and bad faith. You do not know, the Mexicans do not know, how hard they will fight. Our charter has beenviolated and President Santa Anna would strip our people of arms andleave them at the mercy of savage Indians. "

Almonte was about to make a passionate reply, but he checked himselfsuddenly and said in mild tones:

"It is not fair for me to attack you, a prisoner, even in words. Lookhow Orizaba grows! It is like a pillar holding up the heavens!"

Ned gazed in admiration. He did not wonder that Almonte loved thiscountry of his, so full of the strange and picturesque. The greatmountain grew and grew, until its mighty cone, dark below, and whiteabove, seemed to fill the horizon. But much of the gayety of Almontedeparted. 

"Before night, " he said, "we will be with General Cos, who is mycommander. As you know, he is the brother-in-law of General Santa Anna, and--he is much inflamed against the Texans. I fear that he will be hardwith you, but I shall do what I can to assuage his severity. "

"I thank you, Colonel Almonte, " said Ned with a gravity beyond hisyears. "You are a generous enemy, and chance may help me some day toreturn your kindness, but whatever treatment General Cos may accord me, I hope I shall be able to stand it. "

In another hour they saw a column of dust ahead of them. The column grewand soon Ned saw lances and bayonets shining through it. He knew thatthis was the army of Cos, and, just as the eastern light began to fade, they joined it. Cos was going into camp by the side of a small stream, and, after a little delay, Almonte took the prisoner to him. 

A large tent had been erected for General Cos, but he was sitting beforeit, eating his supper. A cook was serving him with delicate dishes andanother servant filled his glass with red wine. His dark face darkenedstill further, as he looked at Ned, but he saluted Almonte courteously. It was evident to Ned that through family or merit, probably both, Almonte stood very high in the Mexican service. 

"I have the honor to report to you, General Cos, " said Almonte, "that wehave retaken the young Texan who escaped through the bars of his prisonat the capital. We found him in the mountains overcome by exhaustion. "

General Cos' lips opened in a slow, cold smile, --an evil smile thatstruck a chill to Ned's heart. Here was a man far different from thegallant and gay young Almonte. That cruel strain which he believed wasin the depths of the Spanish character, dormant though it might usuallybe, was patent now in General Cos. Moreover, this man was very powerful, and, as brother-in-law of Santa Anna, he was second only to the greatdictator. He did not ask Ned to sit down and he was brusque in speech. The air about them grew distinctly colder. Almonte had talked with Nedin English, but Cos spoke Spanish:

"Why did you run away from the capital?" he asked, shortly. "You weretreated well there. "

"No man can be held in prison and be treated well. "

General Martin Perfecto de Cos frowned. The bearing of the young Gringodid not please him. Nor did his answer. 

"I repeat my question, " he said, his voice rising. "Why did you run likea criminal from the capital? You were with the man Austin. You, like he, were the guest of our great and illustrious Santa Anna who does nowrong. Answer me, why did you slip away like a thief?"

"I slipped away, but it was not like a thief nor any other kind ofcriminal. And if you must know, General Cos, I went because I did notbelieve the words of the great and illustrious Santa Anna. He promisesthe Texans redress for their wrongs, and, at the same time, he ordersthem to give up their weapons. Do you think, and does General Santa Annathink, that the Texans are fools?"

Despite all his study and thought, Ned Fulton was only a boy and he didnot have the wisdom of the old. The manner and words of General Cos hadangered him, and, on impulse, he gave a direct reply. But he knew atonce that it was impolitic. Cos' eyes lowered, and his lips drew backlike those of an angry jaguar, showing his strong white teeth. There wasno possible doubt now about that Spanish strain of cruelty. 

"I presume, " he said, and he seemed to Ned to bite each word, "that youmeant to go to the Texans with the lying message that the word of themost illustrious General Santa Anna was not to be believed?"

"I meant to go with such a message, " said Ned proudly, "but it would notbe a lying one. "

Knowing that he was already condemned he resolved to seek no subterfuge. 

"The President cannot be insulted in my presence, " said Cos ominously. 

"He is only a boy, General, " said Almonte appealingly. 

"Boys can do mischief, " said Cos, "and this seems to be an unusuallycunning and wicked one. You are zealous, Colonel Almonte, I will giveyou that much credit, but you do not hate the Gringos enough. "

Almonte flushed, but he bowed and said nothing. Cos turned again to Ned. 

"You will bear no message to the Texans, " he said. "I think that insteadyou will stay a long time in this hospitable Mexico of ours. "

Ned paled a little. The words were full of menace, and he knew that theycame straight from the cruel heart of Cos. But his pride would notpermit him to reply. 

"You will be kept under close guard, " said the General. "I will givethat duty to the men of Tlascala. They are infantry and to-morrow youmarch on foot with them. Colonel Almonte, you did well to take theprisoner, but you need trouble yourself no longer about him. "

Two men of the Tlascalan company were summoned and they took Ned withthem. The name "Tlascala" had appealed to Ned at first. It was the braveTlascalan mountaineers who had helped Cortez and who had made possiblehis conquest of the great Mexican empire. But these were not theTlascalans of that day. They were a mongrel breed, short, dirty andbarefooted. He ate of the food they gave him, said nothing, and lay downon his serape to seek sleep. Almonte came to him there. 

"I feared this, " he said. "I would have saved you from General Cos had Ibeen able. "

"I know it, " said Ned warmly, "and I want to thank you, ColonelAlmonte. "

Almonte held out his hand and Ned grasped it. Then the Mexican strodeaway. Ned lay back again and watched the darkness thin as the moon andstars came out. Far off the silver cone of Orizaba appeared like a spearpoint against the sky. It towered there in awful solemnity above thestrife and passion of the world. Ned looked at it long, and gradually itbecame a beacon of light to him, his "pillar of flame" by night. It wasthe last thing he saw as he fell asleep, and there was no thought thenin his mind of the swart and menacing Cos. 

They resumed the march early in the morning. Ned no longer had hispatient burro, but walked on foot among the Tlascalans. Often he sawGeneral Cos riding ahead on a magnificent white horse. Sometimes thepeons stood on the slopes and looked at them but generally they kept farfrom the marching army. Ned surmised that they had no love of militaryservice. 

The way was not easy for one on foot. Clouds of dust arose, and stungnose and throat. The sharp lava or basalt cut through the soles ofshoes, and at midday the sun's rays burned fiercely. Weakened already bythe hardships of his flight Ned was barely able to keep up. Once when hestaggered a horseman prodded him with the butt of his lance. Ned was notrevengeful, but he noted the man's face. Had he been armed then hewould have struck back at any cost. But he took care not to staggeragain, although it required a supreme effort. 

They halted about an hour at noon, and Ned ate some rough food and drankwater with the Tlascalans. He was deeply grateful for the short rest, and, as he sat trying to keep himself from collapse, Almonte came up andheld out a flask. 

"It is wine, " he said. "It will strengthen you. Drink. "

Ned drank. He was not used to wine, but he had been so near exhaustionthat he took it as a medicine. When he handed the flask back the colorreturned to his face and the blood flowed more vigorously in his veins. 

"General Cos does not wish me to see you at all, " said Almonte. "Hethinks you should be treated with the greatest harshness, but I am notwithout influence and I may be able to ease your march a little. "

"I know that you will do it if you can, " said Ned gratefully. 

Yet Almonte was able to do little more for him. The march was resumedunder equally trying conditions, after the short rest. When night cameand the detachment stopped, Ned ached in every bone, and his feet weresore and bleeding. Almonte was sent away in the morning on anotherservice, and there was no one to interfere for him. 

He struggled on all of the next day. Most of his strength was gone, butpride still kept him going. Orizaba was growing larger and larger, dominating the landscape, and Ned again drew courage from the loftywhite cone that looked down upon them. 

Late in the afternoon he heard a trumpet blow, and there was a greatstir in the force of Cos. Men held themselves straighter, lines werere-formed, and the whole detachment became more trim and smart. GeneralCos on his white horse rode to its head, and he was in his finestuniform. Somebody of importance was coming! Ned was keen with curiositybut he was too proud to ask. The Tlascalans had proved a churlish lot, and he would waste no words on them. 

The road now led down into a beautiful savanna, thick in grass, and withoaks and pines on all sides. Cos' companies turned into the grass, andNed saw that another force entering at the far side was doing the same. All the men in the second force were mounted, the officer who was attheir head riding a horse even finer than that of Cos. His uniform, too, was more splendid, and his head was surmounted by a great three-corneredhat, heavy with gold lace. He was compact of figure, sat his saddlewell, and rode as if the earth belonged to him. Ned recognized him atonce. It was the general, the president, the dictator, the father of hiscountry, the illustrious Santa Anna himself. 

The mellow trumpet pealed forth again, and Santa Anna advanced to meethis brother, Cos, who likewise advanced to meet him. They met in fullview of both forces, and embraced and kissed each other. Then a shoutcame forth from hundreds of throats at the noble spectacle of fraternalamity. The two forces coalesced with much Latin joy and chatter, andcamp was pitched in the savanna. 

Ned stayed with the Tlascalans, because he had no choice but to do so. They flung him a tortilla or two, and he had plenty of water, but whathe wanted most was rest. He threw himself on the grass, and, as theTlascalans did not disturb him, he lay there until long afternightfall. He would have remained there until morning had not twosoldiers come with a message that he was wanted by Santa Anna himself. 

Ned rose, smoothed out his hair, draped his serape as gracefully as hecould about his shoulders, and, assuming all the dignity that waspossible, went with the men. He had made up his mind that boldness ofmanner and speech was his best course and it suited his spirit. He wasled into a large tent or rather a great marquee, and he stood there fora few moments dazzled. 

The floor of the marquee was spread with a thick velvet carpet. A tableloaded with silver dishes was between the generals, and a dozen lamps onthe walls shed a bright light over velvet carpet, silver dishes and thefaces of the two men who held the fortunes of Mexico in the hollows oftheir hands. General Cos smiled the same cold and evil smile that Nedhad noticed at their first meeting, but Santa Anna spoke in a tone halfof surprise and half of pity. 

"Ah, it is the young Fulton! And he is in evil plight! You would notaccept my continued hospitality at the capital, and behold what you havesuffered!"

Ned looked steadily at him. He could not fathom the thought that laybehind the words of Santa Anna. The man was always appearing to him inchanging colors. So he merely waited. 

"It was a pleasure to me, " said Santa Anna, "to learn from General Costhat you had been retaken. Great harm might have come to you wanderingthrough the mountains and deserts of the north. You could never havereached the Texans alive, and since you could not do so it was better tohave come back to us, was it not?"

"I have not come willingly. "

General Cos frowned, but Santa Anna laughed. 

"That was frank, " he said, "and we will be equally frank with you. Youwould go north to the Texans, telling them that I mean to come with anarmy and crush them. Is it not so?"

"It is, " replied Ned boldly. 

Santa Anna smiled. He did not seem to be offended at all. His manner, swift, subtle and changing, was wholly attractive, and Ned felt itsfascination. 

"Be your surmise true or not, " said the dictator, "it is best for younot to reach Texas. I have discussed the matter with my brother, GeneralCos, in whom I have great confidence, and we have agreed that since youundertook to reach Vera Cruz you can go there. General Cos will be yourescort on the way, and, as I go to the capital in the morning, I wishyou a pleasant journey and a happy stay in our chief seaport. "

It seemed to Ned that there was the faintest touch of irony in his lastword or two, but he was not sure. He was never sure of Santa Anna, thatcomplex man of great abilities and vast ambition. And so after hisfashion when he had nothing to say he said nothing. 

"You are silent, " said Santa Anna, "but you are thinking. You of thenorth are silent to hide your thoughts, and we of the south talk to hideours!"

Ned still said nothing, and Santa Anna examined him searchingly. He senthis piercing gaze full into the eyes of the boy. Ned, proud of his raceand blood, endured it, and returned it with a firm and steady look. Thenthe face of Santa Anna changed. He became all at once smiling andfriendly, like a man who receives a welcome guest. He put a hand onNed's shoulder, and apparently he did not notice that the shoulderbecame rigid under his touch. 

"I like you, " he said, "I like your courage, your truth, and yourbluntness. You Texans, or rather you Americans, --because the Texans areAmericans, --have some of the ruder virtues which we who are of theSpanish and Latin blood now and then lack. You are only a boy, but youhave in you the qualities that can make a career. The Texans belong toMexico. Your loyalty is due to Mexico and to me. I have said that youwould go to Vera Cruz and take the hospitality that my brother, Cos, will offer you, but there is an alternative. "

He stopped as if awaiting a natural question, but still Ned did notspeak. A spark appeared in the eye of Santa Anna, but it passed soquickly that it was like a momentary gleam. 

"I would make of you, " continued the dictator in his mellow, coaxingtone, "a promising young member of my staff, and I would assign to youan immediate and important duty. I would send you to the Texans with amessage entirely different from the one you wish to bear. I would haveyou to tell them that Santa Anna means only their greatest good; that heloves them as his children; that he is glad to have these strong, tall, fair men in the north to fight for him and Mexico; that he is a man whonever breaks a promise; that he is the father of his people, and that heloves them all with a heart full of tenderness. To show you how much Itrust and value you I would take your word that you would bear such amessage, and I would send you with an escort that would make your waysafe and easy. "

Again he sent his piercing gaze into the eyes of the boy, but Ned wasstill silent. 

"You would tell them, " said Santa Anna in the softest and mostpersuasive tones, "that you have been much with me, that you know me, and that no man has a softer heart or a more just mind. "

"I cannot do it, " said Ned. 

"Why?"

"Because it is not so. "

The change on the face of Santa Anna was sudden and startling. His eyesbecame black with wrath, and his whole aspect was menacing. The hand ofCos flew to the hilt of his sword, and he half rose from his chair. ButSanta Anna pushed him back, and then the face of the dictator quicklyunderwent another transformation. It became that of the ruler, grave butnot threatening. 

"Softly, Cos, my brother, " he said. "Bear in mind that he is only a boy. I offered too much, and he does not understand. He has put away abrilliant career, but, my good brother Cos, he has left to him yourhospitality, and you will not be neglectful. "

Cos sank back in his chair and laughed. Santa Anna laughed. The twolaughs were unlike, one heavy and angry, and the other light and gay, but their effect upon Ned was precisely the same. He felt a cold shiverat the roots of his hair, but he was yet silent, and stood before themwaiting. 

"You can go, " said Santa Anna. "You have missed your opportunity and itwill not come again. "

Ned turned away without a word. The Tlascalans were waiting at the doorof the marquee, and he went with them. Once more he slept under thestars. 

CHAPTER VII

THE DUNGEON UNDER THE SEA

Ned, early the next morning, saw Santa Anna with his brilliant escortride away toward the capital, while General Cos resumed his march toVera Cruz. Almonte did not reappear at all, and the boy surmised that hewas under orders to join the dictator. 

Ned continued on foot among the Tlascalans. Cos offered him no kindnesswhatever, and his pride would not let him ask for it. But when he lookedat his sore and bleeding feet he always thought of the patient burrothat he had lost. They marched several more days, and the road droppeddown into the lowlands, into the tierra caliente. The air grew thick andhot and Ned, already worn, felt an almost overpowering languor. Thevegetation became that of the tropics. Then, passing through marshes andsand dunes, they reached Vera Cruz, the chief port of Mexico, a small, unhealthy city, forming a semicircle about a mile in length about thebay. 

Ned saw little of Vera Cruz, as they reached it at nightfall, but theapproach through alternations of stagnant marsh and shifting sandaffected him most unpleasantly. Offensive odors assailed him and heremembered that this was a stronghold of cholera and yellow fever. Heate rough food with the Tlascalans again, and then Cos sent for him. 

"You have reached your home, " said the General. "You will occupy thelargest and most expensive house in the place, and my men will take youthere at once. Do you not thank me?"

"I do not, " replied Ned defiantly. Yet he knew that he had much todread. 

"You are an ungrateful young dog of a Texan, " said Cos, laughingmaliciously, "but I will confer my hospitality upon you, nevertheless. You will go with these men and so I bid you farewell. "

Four barefooted soldiers took Ned down through the dirty andevil-smelling streets of the city. He wondered where they were going, but he would not ask. They came presently to the sea and Ned saw beforehim, about a half mile away, a somber and massive pile rising upon arocky islet. He knew that it was the great and ancient Castle of SanJuan de Ulua. In the night, with only the moon's rays falling upon itswalls, it looked massive and forbidding beyond all description. Thatcold shiver again appeared at the roots of the boy's hair. He knew nowthe meaning of all this talk of Santa Anna and Cos about theirhospitality. He was to be buried in the gloomiest fortress of the NewWorld. It was a fate that might well make one so young shudder manytimes. But he said not a word in protest. He got silently into a boatwith the soldiers, and they were rowed to the rocky islet on which stoodthe huge castle. 

Not much time was wasted on Ned. He was taken before the governor, hisname and age were registered, and then two of the prison guards, onegoing before and the other behind, led him down a narrow and steepstairway. It reminded him of his descent into the pyramid, but here theair seemed damper. They went down many steps and came into a narrowcorridor upon which a number of iron doors opened. The guards unlockedone of the doors, pushed Ned in, relocked the door on him, and wentaway. 

Ned staggered from the rude thrust, but, recovering himself stood erect, and tried to accustom his eyes to the half darkness. He stood in asmall, square room with walls of hard cement or plaster. The roof of thesame material was high, and in the center of it was a round hole, through which came all the air that entered the cell. In a corner was arude pallet of blankets spread upon grass. There was no window. Theplace was hideous and lonely beyond the telling. He had not felt thisway in the pyramid. 

Ned now had suffered more than any boy could stand. He threw himselfupon the blanket, and only pride kept him from shedding tears. But hewas nevertheless relaxed completely, and his body shook as if in achill. He lay there a long time. Now and then, he looked up at the wallsof his prison, but always their sodden gray looked more hideous thanever. He listened but heard nothing. The stillness was absolute anddeadly. It oppressed him. He longed to hear anything that would breakit; anything that would bring him into touch with human life and thatwould drive away the awful feeling of being shut up forever. 

The air in the dungeon felt damp to Ned. He was glad of it, because dampmeant a touch of freshness, but by and by it became chilly, too. The bedwas of two blankets, and, lying on one and drawing the other over him, he sought sleep. He fell after a while into a troubled slumber which washalf stupor, and from which he awakened at intervals. At the thirdawakening he heard a noise. Although his other faculties were deadenedpartially by mental and physical exhaustion, his hearing was uncommonlyacute, concentrating in itself the strength lost by the rest. The soundwas peculiar, half a swish and half a roll, and although not loud itremained steady. Ned listened a long time, and then, all at once, herecognized its cause. 

He was under the sea, and it was the rolling of the waves over his headthat he heard. He was in one of the famous submarine dungeons of theCastle of San Juan de Ulua. This was the hospitality of Cos and SantaAnna, and it was a hospitality that would hold him fast. Never would hetake any word of warning to the Texans. Buried under the sea! Heshivered all over and a cold sweat broke out upon him. 

He lay a long time until some of the terror passed. Then he sat up, andlooked at the round hole in the cement ceiling. It was about eightinches in diameter and a considerable stream of fresh air entered there. But the pipe or other channel through which it came must turn to oneside, as the sea was directly over his head. He could not reach thehole, and even could he have reached it, he was too large to passthrough it. He had merely looked at it in a kind of vague curiosity. 

Feeling that every attempt to solve anything would be hopeless, he fellasleep again, and when he awoke a man with a lantern was standing besidehim. It was a soldier with his food, the ordinary Mexican fare, andwater. Another soldier with a musket stood at the door. There was nopossible chance of a dash for liberty. Ned ate and drank hungrily, andasked the soldier questions, but the man replied only in monosyllablesor not at all. The boy desisted and finished in silence the meal whichmight be either breakfast, dinner or supper for all he knew. Then thesoldier took the tin dishes, withdrew with his comrade, and the doorwas locked again. 

Ned was left to silence and solitude. But he felt that he must now moveabout, have action of some kind. He threw himself against the door in aneffort to shake it, but it did not move a jot. Then he remembered thathe had seen cell doors in a row, and that other prisoners might be oneither side of him. He kicked the heavy cement walls, but they were notconductors of sound and no answer came. 

He grew tired after a while, but the physical exertion had done himgood. The languid blood flowed in a better tide in his veins and hismind became more keen. There must be some way out of this. Youth couldnot give up hope. It was incredible, impossible that he should remainalways here, shut off from that wonderful free world outside. The rollof the sea over his head made reply. 

After a while he began to walk around his cell, around and around andaround, until his head grew dizzy, and he staggered. Then he wouldreverse and go around and around and around the other way. He kept thisup until he could scarcely stand. He lay down and tried to sleep again. But he must have slept a long time before, and sleep would not come. Helay there on the blankets, staring at the walls and not seeing them, until the soldiers came again with his food. Ned ate and drank insilence. He was resolved not to ask a question, and, when the soldiersdeparted, not a single word had been spoken. 

The next day Ned had fever, the day after that he was worse, and on thethird day he became unconscious. Then he passed through a time, thelength of which he could not guess, but it was a most singular period. It was crowded with all sorts of strange and shifting scenes, somecolored brilliantly, and vivid, others vague and fleeting as moonlightthrough a cloud. It was wonderful, too, that he should live againthrough things that he had lived already. He was back with Mr. Austin. He saw the kind and generous face quite plainly and recognized hisvoice. He saw Benito and Juana, Popocatepetl and Ixtaccihuatl; he was onthe pyramid and in it, and he saw the silver cone of Orizaba. Then heshifted suddenly back to Texas and the wild border, the Comanche and thebuffalo. 

His life now appeared to have no order. Time turned backward. Scenesoccurred out of their sequence. Often they would appear for a second orthird time. It was the most marvelous jumble that ever ran through anykaleidoscope. His brain by and by grew dizzy with the swift interplay ofaction and color. Then everything floated away and blackness and silencecame. Nor could he guess how long this period endured, but when he cameout of it he felt an extraordinary weakness and a lassitude that was ofboth mind and body. 

His eyes were only half open and he did not care to open them more. Hetook no interest in anything. But he became slowly conscious that he hademerged from somewhere out of a vast darkness, and that he had returnedto his life in the dungeon under the sea. 

His eyes opened fully by automatic process rather than by will, and theheavy dark of the dungeon was grateful then, because they, too, like allthe rest of him, were very weak. Yet a little light came in as usualwith the fresh air from above, and by and by he lifted one hand andlooked at it. It was a strange hand, very white, very thin, with theblue veins standing out from the back. 

It was almost the hand of a skeleton. He did not know it. Certainly itdid not belong to him. He looked at it wondering, and then he did astrange thing. It was his left hand that he was holding before him. Heput his right hand upon it, drew that hand slowly over the fingers, thenthe palm and along the wrist until he reached his shoulder. It was hishand after all. His languid curiosity satisfied he let the hand dropback by his body. It fell like a stone. After a while he touched hishead, and found that his hair was cut closely. It seemed thin, too. 

He realized that he had been ill, and very ill indeed he must have beento be so weak. He wondered a little how long it had been since he firstlapsed into unconsciousness, and then the wonder ceased. Whether thetime had been long or short it did not matter. But he shut his eyes andlistened for the last thing that he remembered. He heard it presently, that low roll of the sea. He was quite sure of one thing. He was in thesame submarine dungeon of the famous Castle of San Juan de Ulua. 

His door was opened, and a man, not a soldier, came in with soup in atin basin. He uttered a low exclamation, when he saw that Ned wasconscious, but he made no explanations. Nor did Ned ask him anything. But he ate the soup with a good appetite, and felt very much stronger. His mind, too, began to wake up. He knew that he was going to get well, but it occurred to him that it might be better for him to conceal hisreturning strength. With a relaxed watch he would have more chance toescape. 

The soup had a soothing effect, and his mind shared with his body in theimprovement. It was obvious that they had not intended for him to die orthey would not have taken care of him in his illness. The shaven headwas proof. But he saw nothing that he could do. He must wait upon theaction of his jailers. Having come to this conclusion he lay upon hispallet, and let vague thoughts float through his head as they would. 

About three hours after they had brought him his soup he heard ascratching at the keyhole of his door. He was not too languid to besurprised. He did not think it likely that any of his jailers would comeback so soon, and heretofore the key had always turned in the lockwithout noise. 

Ned sat up. The scratching continued for a few moments, and the doorswung open. A tall, thin figure of a man entered, the door closed behindhim, and with some further scratching he locked it. Then the man turnedand stared at Ned. Ned stared with equal intentness at him. 

The figure that he saw was thin and six feet four; the face that he sawwas thin and long. The face was also bleached to an indescribable deadwhite, the effect of which was heightened by the thick and fiery redhair that crowned a head, broad and shaped finely. His hair even in thedark seemed to be vital, the most vital part of him. Ned fancied thathis eyes were blue, although in the dimness he could not tell. But heknew that this was no Mexican. A member of his own race stood beforehim. 

"Well, " said Ned. 

"Well?" replied the man in a singularly soft and pleasant voice. 

"Who are you and what do you want?"

"To the first I am Obed White; to the second I want to talk to you, andI would append as a general observation that I am harmless. Evil to himthat would evil do. "

"The quotation is wrong, " said Ned, smiling faintly. "It is 'evil to himwho evil thinks. '"

"Perhaps, but I have improved upon it. I add, for your furtherinformation, that I am your nearest neighbor. I occupy the magnificentconcrete parlor next door to you, where I live a life of undisturbedease, but I have concluded at last to visit you, and here I am. How Icame I will explain later. But I am glad I am with you. One crowded hourof glorious company is worth a hundred years in a solitary cell. I mayhave got that a little wrong, too, but it sounds well. "

He sat down in Turkish fashion on the floor, folding a pair of extremelylong legs beneath him, and regarded Ned with a slow, quizzical smile. For the life of him the boy could not keep from smiling back. With thenearer view he could see now that the eyes were blue and honest. 

"You may think I'm a Mexican, " continued the man in his mellow, pleasantvoice, "but I'm not. I'm a Texan--by the way of Maine. As I told you, Ilive in the next tomb, the one on the right. I'm a watch, clock and toolmaker by trade and a bookworm by taste. Because of the former I've comeinto your cell, and because of the latter I use the ornate language thatyou hear. But of both those subjects more further on. Meanwhile, Isuppose it's you who have been yelling in here at the top of your voiceand disturbing a row of dungeons accustomed to peace and quiet. "

"It was probably I, but I don't remember anything about it. "

"It's not likely that you would, as I see you've had some one of theseven hundred fevers that are customary along this coast. Yours musthave been of the shouting kind, as I heard you clean through the wall, and, once when I was listening at the keyhole, you made a noise likethe yell of a charging army. "

"You don't mean to say that you've been listening at the keyhole of mycell. "

"It's exactly what I mean. You wouldn't come to see your neighbor so hedecided to come to see you. Good communications correct evil manners. See this?"

He held up a steel pronged instrument about six inches long. 

"This was once a fork, a fork for eating, large and crude, I grant you, but a fork. It took me more than a month to steal it, that is I had towait for a time when I was sure that the soldier who brought my food wasso lazy or so stupid that he would not miss it. I waited another week asan additional precaution, and after that my task was easy. If the bestwatch, clock and instrument maker in the State of Maine couldn't pickany lock with a fork it was time for him to lie on his back and die. Ipicked the lock of my own door in a minute the first time by deadreckoning, but it took me a full two minutes to open yours, althoughI'll relock it in half that time when I go out. Where there's a willthere will soon be an open door. "

He flourished the fork, the two prongs of which now curved at the end, and grinned broadly. He had a look of health despite the dead whitenessof his face, which Ned now knew was caused by prison pallor. Ned likedhim. He liked him for many reasons. He liked him because his eyes werekindly. He liked him because he was one of his own race. He liked himbecause he was a fellow prisoner, and he liked him above all becausethis was the first human companionship that he had had in a time thatseemed ages. 

Obed meanwhile was examining him with scrutinizing eyes. He had heardthe voice of fever, but he did not expect to find in the "tomb" next tohis own a mere boy. 

"How does it happen, " he asked, "that one as young as you is a prisonerhere in a dungeon with the castle of San Juan de Ulua and the sea on topof him?"

Obed White had the mellowest and most soothing voice that Ned had everheard. Now it was like that of a father speaking to the sick son whom heloved, and the boy trusted him absolutely. 

"I was sent here, " he replied, "by Santa Anna and his brother-in-law, Cos, because I knew too much, or rather suspected too much. I was heldat the capital with Mr. Austin. We were not treated badly. Santa Annahimself would come to see us and talk of the great good that he wasgoing to do for Texas, but I could not believe him. I was sure insteadthat he was gathering his forces to crush the Texans. So, I escaped, meaning to go to Texas with a message of warning. "

"A wise boy and a brave one, " said Obed White with admiration. "Yoususpected but you kept your counsel. Still waters run slowly, but theyrun. "

Ned told all his story, neglecting scarcely a detail. The feeling thatcame of human companionship was so strong and his trust was so greatthat he did not wish to conceal anything. 

"You've endured about as much as ought to come to one boy, " said ObedWhite, "and you've gone through all this alone. What you need is apartner. Two heads can do what one can't. Well, I'm your partner. As I'mthe older, I suppose I ought to be the senior partner. Do you herebysubscribe to the articles of agreement forming the firm of White &Fulton, submarine engineers, tunnel diggers, jail breakers, or whateverform of occupation will enable us to escape from the castle of San Juande Ulua?"

"Gladly, " said Ned, and he held out a thin, white hand. Obed Whiteseized it, but he remembered not to grasp it too firmly. This boy hadbeen ill a long time, and he was white and very weak. The heart of theman overflowed with pity. 

"Good-night, Ned, " he said. "I mustn't stay too long, but I'll comeagain lots of times, and you and I will talk business then. The firm ofWhite & Fulton will soon begin work of the most important kind. Now youwatch me unlock that door. They say that pride goeth before a fall, butin this case it is going right through an open door. "

Obviously he was proud of his skill as he had a full right to be. Heinserted the hooked prongs of the fork in the great keyhole, twistedthem about a little, and then the lock turned in its groove. 

"Good-by, Ned, " said Obed again. "It's time I was back in my own tombwhich is just like yours. I hate to lock in a good friend like you, butit must be done. "

He disappeared in the hall, the door swung shut and Ned heard the lockslide in the groove again. He was alone once more. The light that hadseemed to illuminate his dungeon went with the man, but he left hopebehind. Ned would not be alone in the spirit as long as he knew thatObed White was in the cell next to his. 

He lay a while, thinking on the chances of fate. They had served himill, for a long time. Had the turn now come? He did not know it, but itwas the human companionship, the friendly voice that had raised such agreat hope in his breast. He glided from thought into a peaceful sleepand slept a long time, without dreams or even vague, floating visions. His breath came long and full at regular intervals, and with every beatof his pulse new strength flowed into his body. While he slept naturewas hard at work, rebuilding the strong young frame which had yieldedonly to overpowering circumstances. 

Ned ate his breakfast voraciously the next day and wanted more. Dinneralso left him hungry, but, carrying out his original plan, hecounterfeited weakness, and, before the soldier left, lay down upon thepallet as if he were too languid to care for anything. He disposed ofsupper in similar fashion, and then waited with a throbbing pulse forthe second call from the senior member of the firm of White & Fulton. 

After an incredible period of waiting he heard the slight rasping of thefork in the keyhole. Then the door was opened and the older partnerentered. Before speaking he carefully relocked the door. 

"I believe you're glad to see me, " he said to Ned. "You're sitting up. Idon't think I ever before saw a boy improve so much in twenty-fourhours. I'll just feel your pulse. It will be one of my duties as seniorpartner to practice medicine for a little while. Yes, it's a strongpulse, a good pulse. You're quite clear of fever. You need nothing nowbut your strength back again, and we'll wait for that. All things cometo him who waits, if he doesn't die of old age first. "

His talk was so rapid and cheerful that he seemed fairly to radiatevigor. It was a powerful tonic to Ned who felt so strong that he wasprepared to attempt escape at once. But Obed shook his head when hesuggested it. 

"That strength comes from your feelings, " he said. "All that glittersisn't gold or silver or any other precious metal. That false strengthwould break down under a long and severe test. We'll just wait and plan. For what we're going to undertake you're bound to have every ounce ofvigor that you can accumulate. "

"You've been able to go out in the hall when you chose, then why haven'tyou gone away already?" asked Ned. 

"I didn't get my key perfected until a few days ago, and then as I heardyou yelling in here I decided to find out about you. Two are company;one is none, and so we formed a partnership. Now when the firm acts bothpartners must act. "

Ned did not reply directly. He did not know how to thank him for hisgenerosity. 

"Have you explored the hall?" he asked. 

"It leads up a narrow stairway, down which I came some time ago when myMexican brethren decided that I was too much of a Texan patriot. Doubtless you trod the same dark and narrow path. At the head of that isanother door which I have not tried, but which I know I can open withthis master key of mine. Beyond that I'm ignorant of the territory, butthere must be a way out since there was one in. Now, Ned, we must makeno mistake. We must not conceal from ourselves that the firm of White &Fulton is confronted by a great task. We must select our time, and haveready for the crisis every particle of strength, courage and quicknessthat we possess. "

Ned knew that he was right, and yet, despite his youth and naturalstrength, his convalescence was slow. He had passed through too terriblean ordeal to recover entirely in a day or even a week. He would test hisstrength often and at night Obed White would test it, too, but always hewas lacking in some particular. Then Obed would shake his head wiselyand say: "Wait. "

One night they heard the sea more loudly than ever before. It rolledheavily, just over their heads. 

"There must be a great storm on the gulf, " said Obed White. "I've lostcount of time, but perhaps the period of gales is at hand. If so, I'mnot sorry, it'll hide our flight across the water. You'll remember, Ned, that we're a half mile from the mainland. "

Fully two weeks passed before they decided that Ned was restored to hisold self. Meanwhile they had matured their plan. 

"We came in as Texans, " said Obed, "but we must go out as Mexicans. There is no other way. It's all simple in the saying, but we've got tobe mighty quick in the doing. We must make the change right here in thiscell of yours, because, you having been an invalid so long, they'relikely to be careless about you. "

Ned agreed with him fully, and they began to train their bodies andminds for a supreme effort. They were now able to tell the differencebetween night and day by the temperature. The air that came through theholes in the ceiling was a little cooler by night, enough for sensestrained to preternatural acuteness by long imprisonment to tell it. Theguard always came about eight o'clock with Ned's supper and they chosethat time for the attempt. 

Obed White entered Ned's cell about six o'clock. The boy could scarcelyrestrain himself and the man's blue eyes were snapping with excitement. But Obed patted Ned on the shoulder. 

"We must both keep cool, " he said. "The more haste the less likely thedeed. The first man comes in with the tray carrying your food. I standhere by the door and he passes by without seeing me. I seize the second, drag him in and slam the door. Then the victory is to the firm of White& Fulton, if it prove to be the stronger. But we'll have surprise in ourfavor. "

They waited patiently. Ned lay upon his pallet. Obed flattened himselfagainst the wall beside the door. Their plan fully arranged, neither nowspoke. Overhead they heard the slow roll of the sea, lashed by the wavessweeping in from the gulf. But inside the cell the silence was absolute. 

Ned lay in an attitude apparently relaxed. His face was still white. Itcould not acquire color in that close cell, but he had never feltstronger. A powerful heart pumped vigorous blood through every arteryand vein. His muscles had regained their toughness and flexibility, andabove all, the intense desire for freedom had keyed him to supremeeffort. 

Usually he did not hear the soldier's key turn in the lock, but soon heheard it and his heart pumped. He glanced at White, but the gray figure, flattened against the wall, never moved. The door swung open and thesoldier, merely a shambling peon, bearing the tray, entered. Behind himaccording to custom came the second man who stood in the doorway, leaning upon his musket. But he stood there only an instant. A pair oflong, powerful arms which must have seemed to him at that moment likethe antennae of a devil-fish, reached out, seized him in a fierce gripby either shoulder, and jerked him gun and all into the cell. The doorwas kicked shut and the grasp of the hands shifted from his shoulders tohis throat. He could not cry out although the terrible face that bentover him made his soul start with fear. 

The man with the tray heard the noise behind him and turned. Ned spranglike a panther. All the force and energy that he had been concentratingso long were in the leap. The soldier went down as if he had beenstruck by a cannon ball and his tray and dishes rattled upon him. But hewas a wiry fellow and grasping his assailant he struggled fiercely. 

"Now stop, my good fellow. Just lie still! That's the way!"

It was Obed White who spoke, and he held the muzzle of a pistol at theman's head. The other soldier lay stunned in the corner. It was from hisbelt that Obed had snatched the pistol. 

"Get up, Ned, " said White. "The first step in our escape from the Castleof San Juan de Ulua has been taken. Meanwhile, you lie still, my goodfellow; we're not going to hurt you. No, you needn't look at yourcomrade. I merely compressed his windpipe rather tightly. He'll come topresently. Ned, take that gay red handkerchief out of his pocket and tiehis arms. If I were going to be bound I should like for the deed to bedone with just such a beautiful piece of cloth. Meanwhile, if you cryout, my friend, I shall have to blow the top of your head off with thispistol. It's not likely that they would hear your cry, but they mighthear my pistol shot. "

Ned bound the man rapidly and deftly. There was no danger that he wouldutter a sound, while Obed White held the pistol. Under the circumstanceshe was satisfied with the status quo. The second man was bound in asimilar fashion just as he was reviving, and he, too, was content toyield to like threats. Obed drew a loaded pistol from the first man'sbelt and handed it, too, to Ned. He also looked rather contemptuously atthe musket that the guard by the door had dropped. 

"A cheap weapon, " he said. "A poor substitute for our American rifle, but we'll take it along, Ned. We may need it. You gather theirammunition while I stand handy with this pistol in case they shouldburst their bonds. "

Ned searched the men, taking all their ammunition, their knives and alsothe key to the door. Then he and Obed divested the two of their outerclothing and put it upon themselves. Fortunately both soldiers had worntheir hats and they pulled them down over their own faces. 

"If we don't come into too bright a light, Ned, " said White, "you'llpass easily for a Mexican. Mexican plumage makes a Mexican bird. Now howdo I look?"

"I could take you for Santa Anna himself, " said Ned, elated at theirsuccess. 

"That promises well. There's another advantage. You speak Spanish and sodo I. "

"It's lucky that we do. "

"And now, " said Obed White to the two Mexicans, "we will leave you tothe hospitality of Cos and Santa Anna, which my young friend and I haveenjoyed so long. We feel that it is time for you to share in it. We'regoing to lock you in this cell, where you can hear the sea rolling overyour head, but you will not stay here forever. It's a long lane thatdoes not come somewhere to a happy ending, and your comrades will findyou by to-morrow. Farewell. "

He went into the hall and they locked the door. They listened beside ita little while but no sound came from within. 

"They dare not cry out, " said Obed. "They're afraid we'll come back. Nowfor the second step in our escape. It's pretty dark here. Those fellowsmust have known the way mighty well to have come down as they didwithout a lantern. "

"There are other prisoners in these cells, " said Ned. "Shouldn't werelease them? You can probably open any of the doors with your key. "

White shook his head. 

"I'm sure that we're the only Texans or Americans in San Juan de Ulua, and we couldn't afford to be wasting time on Mexicans whetherrevolutionaries or criminals. There would merely be a tumult with everyone of us sure to be recaptured. "

The two now advanced down the passage, which was low and narrow, walledin with massive stone. It was so dark here that they held each other'shands and felt the way before every footstep. 

"I think we're going in the right direction, " whispered White, "As Iremember it this is the way I came in. "

"I'm sure of it, " Ned whispered back. "Ah, here are more steps. "

They had reached the stairway which led down to the hall of thesubmarine cells, and still feeling their way they ascended itcautiously. As they rose the air seemed to grow fresher, as if they werenearing the openings by which it entered. 

"Those fellows who took our places must have left a lamp or a lanternstanding somewhere here at the top of these steps, " whispered White. "The man who carried the tray could not have gone down them without alight. "

"It's probably here, " said Ned, "burned out or blown out by a draught ofwind. "

He smelled a slight smoke and in a niche carved in the stone he foundthe lamp. The wick was still smoking a little. 

"We'll leave it as it is, " said Obed White. "Somebody may relight itfor those men when they come back again, but that won't be for severalhours yet. "

Three more steps and they reached the crest of the flight, where theywere confronted by a heavy door of oak, ribbed with iron. Obed gentlytried the key that they had seized, but it did not fit. 

"They must have banged on the door for it to be opened whenever theycame back, " said Obed. "Now I shall use my fork which is sure to turnthe lock if I take long enough. I wasn't the best watch and key maker inMaine for nothing. If first you don't succeed, then keep on trying tillyou do. "

Ned sat down on the steps while White inserted the fork. He could hearit scratching lightly for a minute and then the bolt slid. The boy roseand the man stepped back by his side. 

"Draw your pistol and have it ready, " he said, "and I'll do as much withthe old musket. We don't know what's on the other side of the door butwhatever it is we've got to meet it. Thrice armed is he who hath hisweapon leveled. "

Ned needed no urging. He drew the pistol and held it ready for instantuse. What, in truth, was on the other side of the door? His whole fateand that of his comrade might depend upon the revelation. Obed pushedgently and the door opened without noise three or four inches. A shaftof light from the room fell upon them but they could not yet see intothe room. They listened, and, hearing nothing, Obed pushed more boldly. Then they saw before them a large apartment, containing littlefurniture, but with some faded old uniforms hanging about the walls. Evidently it was used as a barracks for soldiers. At the far end was adoor and on the side to the right were two windows. 

Ned went to the window and looked out. He saw across a small court ahigh and blank stone wall, but when he looked upward he saw also a patchof sky. It was a black sky, across which clouds were driving before awhistling wind, but it was the most beautiful sight that he had everseen. The sky, the free, open sky curving over the beautiful earth, wasrevealed again to him who had been buried for ages in a dungeon underthe sea. He would not go back. In the tremendous uplift of feeling hewould willingly choose death first. He beckoned to White who joined himand who looked up without being bid. 

"It's out there that we're going, " he said. "We'll have to cross astormy sea before we reach freedom, but Ned, you and I are keyed up justhigh enough to cross. We'll put it to the touch and win it all. Now forthe next door. "

The second door was not locked and when they pushed it open they entereda small room, furnished handsomely in the Spanish fashion. A lamp burnedon a table, at which an officer sat looking over some papers. He heardthe two enter and it was too late for them to retreat, as he turned atonce and looked at them, inquiry in his face. 

"Who are you?" he asked. 

"We are the soldiers who have charge of the two Texans in the cells, "replied Obed White boldly. "We have just taken them their food and nowwe are going back to our quarters. "

"I have no doubt that you tell the truth, " replied the officer, "butyour voice has changed greatly since yesterday. You remember that I gaveyou an order then about the man White. "

"Quite true, " replied Obed quickly, raising his musket and taking aim, "and now I'm giving the order back to you. It's a poor rule that won'twork first one way and then the other. Just you move or cry out and Ishoot. I'd hate to do it, because you're not bad looking, but necessityknows the law of self-preservation. "

"You need not worry, " said the officer, smiling faintly. "I will notmove, nor will I cry out. You have too great an advantage, because I seethat your aim is good and your hand steady. I surmise that you are theman White himself. "

"None other, and this is my young friend, Edward Fulton, who likes SanJuan de Ulua as a castle but not as a hotel. Hence he has decided to goaway and so have I. Ned, look at those papers on his desk. You mightfind among them a pass or two which would be mighty useful to us. "

"Do you mind if I light a cigarette?" asked the officer. "You can seethat my hands and the cigarettes alike are on the table. "

"Go ahead, " said Obed hospitably, "but don't waste time. "

The officer lighted the cigarette and took a satisfied whiff. Nedsearched among the papers, turning them over rapidly. 

"Yes, here is a pass!" exclaimed he joyfully, "and here is another andhere are two more!"

"Two will be enough, " said Obed. 

"I'll take this one made out to Joaquin de la Barra for you and one toDiego Fernandez for me. Ah, what are these?"

He held up four papers, looking at them in succession. 

"What are they?" asked Obed White. 

"Death warrants. They are all for men with Mexican names, and they aresigned with the name of Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, General-in-chiefand President of the Mexican Republic. "

The officer took the cigarette from his mouth and sent out a littlesmoke through his nostrils. 

"Yes, they are death warrants, " he said. "I was looking over them whenyou came in, and I was troubled. The men were to have been executedto-morrow. "

"Were to have been?" said Ned. Then a look passed between him and theofficer. The boy held the death warrants one by one in the flame of thelamp and burned them to ashes. 

"I cannot execute a man without a warrant duly signed, " said theofficer. 

"Which being the case, we'd better go or we might have to help at ourown executions, " said Obed White. "Now you just sit where you are andhave a peaceful and happy mind, while we go out and fight with thestorm. "

The officer said nothing and the two passed swiftly through the fardoor, stepping into a paved court, and reaching a few yards further agate of the castle. It was quite dark when they stepped once more intothe open world, and both wind and rain lashed them. But wind and rainthemselves were a delight to the two who had come from under the sea. Besides, the darker the better. 

Two sentinels were at the gate and Ned thrust the passes before theireyes. They merely glanced at the signatures, opened the gate, and in aninstant the two were outside the castle of San Juan de Ulua. 

CHAPTER VIII

THE BLACK JAGUAR

It was so dark that the two could see but a narrow stretch of masonry onwhich they stood and a tossing sea beyond. Behind them heaved up themass of the castle, mighty and somber. A fierce wind was blowing in fromthe gulf, and it whistled and screamed about the great walls. The rain, bitter and cold, lashed against them like hail. Shut off so long fromthe outer air they shivered now, but the shiver was merely of the air. Their spirit was as high as ever and they faced their crisis withundaunted souls. 

Yet they were far from escape. The wind was of uncommon strength, seeming to increase steadily in power, and a half mile of wild watersraced between them and the town. Weaker wills would have yielded andturned back to prison, but not they. They ran eagerly along the edge ofthe masonry, pelted by rain and wind. 

"There must be a boat tied up somewhere along here, " exclaimed Ned. "Thecastle, of course, keeps communication with the town!"

"Yes, here it is!" said Obed. "Fortune favors the persistent. It's onlya small boat, and it's a big sea before us, but, Ned, my lad, we've gotto try it. We can't look any further. Listen! That's the alarm in thecastle. "

They heard shouts and clash of arms above the roaring of the wind. Theypicked in furious haste at the rope that held the boat, cast it loose, and sprang in, securing the oars. The waves at once lifted them up andtossed them wildly. It was perhaps fortunate that they lost control oftheir boat for a minute or two. Two musket shots were fired at them, butgood aim in the darkness at such a bobbing object was impossible. Nedheard one of the bullets whistle near, and it gave him a queer, creepyfeeling to realize that for the first time in his life someone wasfiring at him to kill. 

"Can you row, Ned?" asked White. 

"Yes. "

"Then pull with all your strength. Bend as low as you can at the sametime. They'll be firing at us as long as we are in range. "

They strove for the cover of the darkness, but they were compelled todevote most of their efforts to keeping themselves afloat. The littleboat was tossed here and there like a bit of plank. Spray from the seawas dashed over them, and, in almost a moment, they were wet through andthrough. The captured musket lay in the bottom and rolled against theirfeet. The wind shrieked continually like some wild animal in pain. 

Many torches appeared on the wharf that led up to the castle, and therewas a noise of men shouting to one another. The torches disclosed thelittle boat rising and falling with the swell of the sea, and numerousshots were now fired, but all fell short or went wild. 

"I don't think we're in much danger from the muskets, " said Obed, "so wewon't pay any more attention to them. But in another minute they'll havebig boats out in pursuit We must make for the land below the town, andget away somehow or other in the brush. If we were to land in the townitself we'd be as badly off as ever. Hark, there goes the alarm!"

A heavy booming report rose above the mutter of the waters and thescreaming of the wind. One of the great guns on the castle of San Juande Ulua had been fired. After a brief interval it was followed by asecond shot and then a third. The reports could be heard easily in VeraCruz, and they said that either a fresh revolution had begun, or thatprisoners were escaping. The people would be on the watch. White turnedthe head of the boat more toward the south. 

"Ned, " he said, "we must choose the longer way. We cannot run any riskof landing right under the rifles of Santa Anna's troops. Good God!"

Some gunner on the walls of San Juan de Ulua, of better sight and aimthan the others, had sent a cannon ball so close that it struck the seawithin ten feet of them. They were deluged by a water spout and againtheir little vessel rocked fearfully. Obed White called out cheerfully:

"Still right side up! They may shoot more cannon balls at us, Ned, butthey won't hit as near as that again!"

"No, it's not likely, " said Ned, "but there come the boats!"

Large boats rowed by eight men apiece had now put out, but they, too, were troubled by the wind and the high waves, and the boat they pursuedwas so small that it was lost to sight most of the time. The wind anddarkness while a danger on the one hand were a protection on the other. Fortunately both current and wind were bearing them in the directionthey wished, and they struggled with the energy that the love of lifecan bring. All the large boats save one now disappeared from view, butthe exception, having marked them well, came on, gaining. An officerseated in the prow, and wrapped in a long cloak, hailed them in a loudvoice, ordering them to surrender. 

"Ned, " said Obed White, "you keep the boat going straight ahead and I'llanswer that man. But I wish this was a rifle in place of a musket. "

He picked up the musket and took aim. When he fired the leading rower onthe right hand side of the pursuing boat dropped back, and the boat wasinstantly in confusion. White laid down the musket and seized the oaragain. 

"Now, Ned, " he exclaimed, "if we pull as hard as we can and a littleharder, we'll lose them!"

The boat, driven by the oars and the wind, sprang forward. Fortune, asif resolved now to favor fugitives who had made so brave a fight againstoverwhelming odds, piled the clouds thicker and heavier than ever overthe bay. The little boat was completely concealed from its pursuers. Another gun boomed from San Juan de Ulua, and both Ned and Obed saw itsflash on the parapet, but, hidden under the kindly veil of the night, they pulled straight ahead with strong arms. The sea seemed to begrowing smoother, and soon they saw an outline which they knew to bethat of the land. 

"We're below the town now, " said Obed. "I don't know any particularlanding place, but it's low and sandy along here. So I propose that weride right in on the the highest wave, jump out of the boat when shestrikes and leave her. "

"Good enough, " said Ned. "Yes, that's the land. I can see it plainlynow, and here comes our wave. "

The crest of the great wave lifted them up, and bore them swiftlyinland, the two increasing the speed with their oars. They went far upon a sandy beach, where the boat struck. They sprang out, Obed takingwith him the unloaded musket, and ran. The retreating water caught themabout the ankles and pulled hard, but could not drag them back. Theypassed beyond the highest mark of the waves, and then dropped, exhausted, on the ground. 

"We've got all Mexico now to escape in, " said Obed White, "instead ofthat pent-up castle. "

The alarm gun boomed once more from San Juan de Ulua, and reminded themthat they could not linger long there. The rain was still falling, thenight was cold, and, after their tremendous strain, they would needshelter as well as refuge. 

"They'll be searching the beach soon, " said Obed, "and we'd best be off. It's against my inclination just now to stay long in one place. Arolling stone keeps slick and well polished, and that's what I'm after. "

"I think our safest course is to travel inland just as fast and as faras we can, " said Ned. 

"Correct. Good advice needs no bush. "

They started in the darkness across the sand dunes, and walked for along time. They knew that a careful search along the beach would be madefor them, but the Mexicans were likely to feel sure when they foundnothing that they had been wrecked and drowned. 

"I hope they'll think the sea got us, " said Ned, "because then theywon't be searching about the country for us. "

"We weren't destined to be drowned that time, " said Obed with greatsatisfaction. "It just couldn't happen after our running such a gauntletbefore reaching the sea. But the further we get away from salt water thesafer we are. "

"It was my plan at first, " said Ned, "to go by way of the sea from VeraCruz to a Texan port. "

"Circumstances alter journeys. It can't be done now. We've got to cutacross country. It's something like a thousand miles to Texas, but Ithink that you and I together, Ned, can make it. "

Ned agreed. Certainly they had no chance now to slip through by the wayof Vera Cruz, and the sea was not his element anyhow. 

The rain ceased, and a few stars came out. They passed from the sanddunes into a region of marshes. Constant walking kept their blood warm, and their clothes were drying upon them. But they were growing verytired and they felt that they must rest and sleep even at the risk ofrecapture. 

"There's a lot of grass growing on the dry ground lying between themarshes, " said Ned, "and I suppose that the Mexicans cut it for the VeraCruz market. Maybe we can find something like a haystack or a windrow. Dry grass makes a good bed. "

They hunted over an hour and persistence was rewarded by a small heap ofdry grass in a little opening surrounded by thorn bushes. They spreadone covering of it on the ground, covered themselves to the mouth withanother layer, and then went sound asleep, the old, unloaded musketlying by Obed White's side. 

The two slept the sleep of deep exhaustion, the complete relaxation ofboth body and mind. Boy and man they had passed through ordeals that fewcan endure, but, healthy and strong, they suffered merely from wearinessand not from shattered nerves. So they slept peacefully and theirbreathing was long and deep. They were warm as they lay with the grassabove and below them like two blankets. It had not rained much here, and the grass had dried before their coming, so they were free fromdanger of cold. 

The night passed and the brilliant Mexican day came, touching with redand gold the town that curved about the bay, and softening the tints ofthe great fortress that rose on the rocky isle. All was quiet againwithin San Juan de Ulua and Vera Cruz. It had become known in bothcastle and town that two Texans, boy and man, had escaped from thedungeons under the sea only to find a grave in the sea above. Their boathad been found far out in the bay where the returning waves carried it, but the fishes would feed on their bodies, and it was well, because theTexans were wicked people, robbers and brigands who dared to defy thegreat and good Santa Anna, the father of his people. 

Meanwhile, the two slept on, never stirring under the grass. It is truethat the boy had dreams of a mighty castle from which he had fled and ofa roaring ocean over which he had passed, but he landed happily and thedream sank away into oblivion. Peons worked in a field not a hundredyards away, but they sought no fugitives, and they had no cruel thoughtsabout anything. That Spanish strain in them was wholly dormant now. Theyhad heard in the night the signal guns from San Juan de Ulua and thetenderest hearted of them said a prayer under his breath for the boywhom the storm had given to the sea. Then they sang together as theyworked, some soft, crooning air of love and sacrifice that had been sungamong the hills of Spain before the Moor came. Perhaps if they had knownthat the boy and man were asleep only a hundred yards away, thetenderest hearted among them at least would have gone on with their workjust the same. 

Ned was the first to awake and it was past noon. He threw off the grassand stood up refreshed but a little stiff. He awoke Obed, who rose, yawning tremendously and plucking wisps of grass from his hair. Thedroning note of a song came faintly, and the two listened. 

"Peons at work in a field, " said the boy, looking through the trees. "They don't appear to be very warlike, but we'd better go in the otherdirection. "

"You're right, " said Obed. "It's best for us to get away. If we temptour fate too much it may overtake us, but before we go let's take a lastview of our late home, San Juan de Ulua. See it over there, cut out inblack against the blue sky. It's a great fortress, but I'm glad to bidit farewell. "

"Shall we take the musket?" asked Ned. "It's unloaded, and we havenothing with which to load it. "

"I think we'll stick to it, " replied Obed, "we may find a use for it, but the first thing we want, Ned, is something to eat, and we've got toget it. Curious, isn't it, how the fear of recapture, the fear ofeverything, melts away before the demands of hunger. "

"Which means that we'll have to go to some Mexican hut and ask forfood, " said Ned. "Now, I suggest, since we have no money, that we offerthe musket for as much provisions as we can carry. "

"It's not a bad idea. But our pistols are loaded and we'll keep them insight. It won't hurt if the humble peon takes us for brigands. He'lltrade a little faster, and, as this is a time of war so far as we areconcerned, we have the right to inspire necessary fear. "

They started toward the north and west, anxious to leave the tierracaliente as soon as they could and reach the mountains. Ned saw oncemore the silver cone of Orizaba now on his left. It had not led him on ahappy quest before, but he believed that it was a true beacon now. Theywalked rapidly, staying their hunger as best they could, not willing toapproach any hut, until they were a considerable distance from VeraCruz. It was nearly nightfall when they dared a little adobe hut on ahillside. 

"We'll claim to be Spaniards out of money and walking to the City ofMexico, " said Obed. "They probably won't believe our statements, but, owing to the sight of these loaded pistols, they will accept them. "

It was a poor hut with an adobe floor and its owner, a surly Mexican, was at home, but it contained plenty of food of the coarsest Mexicantype, and Obed White stated their requests very plainly. 

"Food we must have, " he said, "sufficient for two or three days. Besides, we want the two serapes hanging there on the wall. I think theyare clean enough for our use. In return we offer you this most excellentmusket, a beautiful weapon made at Seville. Look at it. It is worthtwice what we demand for it. Behold the beautifully carved stock and thefine steel barrel. "

The Mexican, a dark, heavy-jawed fellow, regarded them maliciously, while his wife and seven half-naked children sat by in silence, butwatching the strangers with the wary, shifting eyes of wild animals. 

"Yes, it is a good musket, " he said, "but may I inquire if it is yourown?"

"For the purposes of barter and sale it is my own, " replied Obedpolitely. "In this land as well as some others possession is ten pointsof the law. "

"The words you speak are Spanish but your tone is Gringo. "

"Gringo or Spanish, it does not change the beauty and value of themusket. "

"I was in Vera Cruz this morning. Last night there was a storm and thegreat guns at the mighty Castle of San Juan de Ulua were firing. "

"Did they fire the guns to celebrate the storm?"

"No. They gave a signal that two prisoners, vile Texans, were escapingfrom the dungeons under the sea. But the storm took them, and buriedthem in the waters of the bay. I heard the description of them. One wasa very tall man, thin and with very thick, red hair. The other was aboy, but tall and strong for his age. He had gray eyes and brown hair. Wretched infidel Texans they were, but they are gone and may the HolyVirgin intercede for their souls. "

He lifted his heavy lashes, and he and Obed White looked gravely intothe eyes of each other. They and Ned, too, understood perfectly. 

"You were informed wrongly, " said Obed. "The man who escaped was shortand fat, and he had yellow hair. The boy was very dark with black hairand black eyes. But the statement that they were drowned in the bay iscorrect. "

"One might get five hundred good silver pesos for bringing in theirbodies. "

"One might, but one won't, and you, amigo, are just concluding anexcellent bargain. You get this fine, unloaded musket, and we get thefood and the serapes for which we have so courteously asked. The entirebargain will be completed inside of two minutes. "

The blue eyes and the black eyes met again and the owner of each pairunderstood. 

"It is so, " said the Mexican, evenly, and he brought what they wished. 

"Good-day, amigo, " said Obed politely. "I will repeat that the musket isunloaded, and you cannot find ammunition for it any nearer than VeraCruz, which will not trouble you as you are here at home in yourcastle. But our pistols are loaded, and it is a necessary fact for myyoung friend and myself. We purpose to travel in the hills, where thereis great danger of brigands. Fortunately for us we are both able andwilling to shoot well. Once more, farewell. "

"Farewell, " said the Mexican, waving his hand in dignified salute. 

"That fellow is no fool, " said Obed, as they strode away. "I like a manwho can take a hint. A word to the wise is like a stitch in time. "

"Will he follow us?"

"Not he. He has that musket which he craved, and at half its value. Hedoes not desire wounds and perhaps death. The chances are ninety-nineout of a hundred that he will never say a word for fear his governmentwill seize his musket. "

"And now for the wildest country that we can find, " said Ned. "I'm gladit doesn't rain much down here. We can sleep almost anywhere, wrapped inour serapes. "

They ate as they walked and they kept on a long time after sunset, picking their way by the moonlight. Two or three times they passed peonsin the path, but their bold bearing and the pistols in their beltsalways gave them the road. Brigands flourished amid the frequentrevolutions, and the humbler Mexicans found it wise to attend strictlyto their own business. They slept again in the open, but this time on ahill in a dense thicket. They had previously drunk at a spring at itsbase, and lacking now for neither food nor water they felt hope risingcontinually. 

Ned had no dreams the second night, and both awoke at dawn. On the farside of the hill, they found a pool in which they bathed, and withbreakfast following they felt that they had never been stronger. Theirfood was made up in two packs, one for each, and they calculated thatwith economy it would last two days. They could also reckon upon furthersupplies from wild fruits, and perhaps more frijoles and tortillas fromthe people themselves. When they had summed up all their circumstances, they concluded that they were not in such bad condition. Armed, strongand bold, they might yet traverse the thousand miles to Texas. 

Light of heart and foot they started. Off to the left the great silverhead of Orizaba looked down at them benignantly, and before them theysaw the vast flowering robe of the tierra caliente into which theypushed boldly, even as Cortez and his men had entered it. 

Ned was almost overpowered by a vegetation so grand and magnificent. Except on the paths which they followed, it was an immense and tangledmass of gigantic trees and huge lianas. Many of the lianas had woundthemselves like huge serpents about the trees and had gradually pulledthem, no matter how strong, into strange and distorted shapes. Overheadparrots and paroquets chattered amid the vast and gorgeous bloom of redand pink, yellow and white. Ned and Obed were forced to keep to thenarrow peon paths, because elsewhere one often could not pass savebehind an army of axes. 

The trees were almost innumerable in variety. They saw mahogany, rosewood, Spanish cedar and many others that they did not know. Theyalso saw the cactus and the palm, turned by the struggle for existencein this tremendous forest, into climbing plants. Obed noted these factswith his sharp eye. 

"It's funny that the cactus and the palm have to climb to live, " hesaid, "but they've done it. It isn't any funnier, however, than thefact that the whale lived on land millions of years ago, and had to taketo the water to escape being eaten up by bigger and fiercer animals thanhimself. I'm a Maine man and so I know about whales. "

They came now and then to little clearings, in which the peons raisedmany kinds of tropical and semitropical plants, bananas, pineapples, plantains, oranges, cocoa-nuts, mangoes, olives and numerous others. Insome places the fruit grew wild, and they helped themselves to it. Twicethey asked at huts for the customary food made of Indian corn, and onboth occasions it was given to them. The peons were stolid, but theyseemed kind and Ned was quite sure they did not care whether the twowere Gringos or not. Two or three times, heavy tropical rains gusheddown in swift showers, and they were soaked through and through, despitetheir serapes, but the hot sun, coming quickly afterward, soon driedthem out again. They were very much afraid of chills and fever, buttheir constitutions, naturally so strong, held them safe. 

Deeper and deeper they went into the great tropical wilderness of thetierra caliente. Often the heat under the vast canopy of interlacingvines and boughs was heavy and intense. Then they would lie down andrest, first threshing up grass and bushes to drive away snakes, scorpions and lizards. Sometimes they would sleep, and sometimes theywould watch the monkeys and parrots darting about and chatteringoverhead. Twice they saw fierce ocelots stealing among the tree trunks, stalking prey hidden from the man and boy. The first ocelot was a tawnyyellow and the second was a reddish gray. Both were marked with blackspots in streaks and in lengthened rings. The second was rather thelarger of the two. He seemed to be slightly over four feet in length, of which the body was three feet and the tail about a foot. 

Ned and Obed were lying flat upon the ground, when the second ocelotappeared, and, as the wind was blowing from him toward them, he did notdetect their presence. At the distance the figure of the great cat wasenlarged. He looked to them almost like a tiger and certainly he was aferocious creature, as he stalked his prey. Neither would have cared tomeet him even with weapons in hand. Suddenly he darted forward, ran upthe trunk of a great tree and disappeared in the dense foliage. As hedid not come down again they inferred that he had caught what he waspursuing and was now devouring it. 

Ned shivered a little and put his hand on the butt of his loaded pistol. 

"Obed, " he said, "I don't like the jungle, and I shall be glad when Iget out of it. It's too vast, too bewildering, and its very beauty fillsme with fear. I always feel that fangs and poison are lurking behind thebeauty and the bloom. "

"You're not so far wrong, Ned. I believe I'd rather be on the dustydeserts of the North. We'll go through the tierra caliente just asquickly as we can. "

The next day they became lost among the paths, and did not regain theirtrue direction until late in the afternoon. Sunset found them by thebanks of a considerable creek, the waters of which were cold, as if itssource were in the high mountains. Being very tired they bathed andarranged couches of grass on the banks. After the heat and perplexity ofthe jungle they were very glad to see cold, running water. The sight andthe pleasant trickle of the flowing stream filled Ned with desires forthe north, for the open land beyond the Rio Grande, where cool windsblew, and you could see to the horizon's rim. He was sicker than ever ofthe jungle, the beauty of which could not hide from him its steam andpoison. 

"How much longer do you think it will be before we leave the tierracaliente?" he asked. 

"We ought to reach the intermediate zone between the tierra caliente andthe higher sierras in three or four days, " replied Obed. "It's mightyslow traveling in the jungle, but to get out of it we've only to keepgoing long enough. Meanwhile, we'll have a good snooze by the side ofthis nice, clean little river. "

As usual after hard traveling, they fell asleep almost at once, but Nedwas awakened in the night by some strange sound, the nature of which hecould not determine at first. The jungle surrounded them in a vast, highcircle, wholly black in the night, but overhead was a blue rim of skylighted by stars. He raised himself on his elbow. Obed, four or fivefeet away, was still sleeping soundly on his couch of grass. The littleriver, silver in the moonlight, flowed with a pleasant trickle, but thetrickle was not the sound that had awakened him. 

The forest was absolutely silent. Not a breath of wind stirred, but theboy, although awed by the night and the great jungle, still listenedintently. 

The sound rose again, a low, hoarse rumble. It was distant thunder. Astorm was coming. He heard it a third time. It was not thunder. It wasthe deep growl of some fierce, wild animal. For a moment the boy wasafraid. Then he remembered the heavy pistol that never left his belt. Itstill carried the original load, a large bullet with plenty of gunpowderbehind it. 

The sounds were repeated and they were nearer. They were like a longdrawn p-u, p-u, p-u. The tone was of indescribable ferocity. Ned wasbrave, but he shivered all over and there was a prickly sensation at theroots of his hair. He felt like some primeval youth who with club alonemust face the rush of the saber-toothed tiger. But he drew upon hisreserves of pride which were large. He would not awaken Obed, but, drawing the pistol and holding his fingers on trigger and hammer, hewalked a little distance down the bank of the stream. That terrible p-u, p-u, p-u, suddenly sounded much closer at hand, and Ned shrank back, stiffening with horror. 

A great black beast, by far the largest wild animal that he had everseen, came silently out of the jungle and stood before the boy. He was agood seven feet in length, black as a coal, low but of singularly thickand heavy build. His shoulders and paws were more powerful than those ofa tiger. As he stood there before Ned, black and sinister as Satan, heopened his mouth, and emitted again that fearful, rumbling p-u, p-u, p-u. 

Ned could not move. All his power seemed to have gone into his eyes andhe only looked. He saw the red eyes, the black lips wrinkling back fromthe long, cruel fangs, and the glossy skin rippling over the tremendousmuscles. Ned suddenly wrenched himself free from this paralysis of thebody, leveled the pistol and fired at a mark midway between the redeyes. 

There was a tremendous roar and the animal leaped. Ned sprang to oneside. The huge beast with blood pouring from his head turned and wouldhave been upon him at the second leap, but a long barrel and then an armwas projected over Ned's shoulder. A pistol was fired almost in his ear. The monster's spring was checked in mid-flight, and he fell to theearth, dead. Ned too, fell, but in a faint. 

CHAPTER IX

THE RUINED TEMPLES

Ned revived and sat up. Cold water which Obed had brought in his hatfrom the river was dripping from his face. At his feet lay a huge blackanimal, terrible even in death. There was one wound in his head, whereNed's bullet had gone in, and another through the right eye, whereObed's had entered, reaching the brain. Ned's strength now returnedfully and the color came back to his face. He stood up, but he shudderednevertheless. 

"Obed, " he said gratefully, "you came just in time. "

"I surely did, " said that cheerful artisan. "A bullet in time saved alife like thine. But you had already given him a bad wound. "

"What is he, Obed?"

"About the biggest and finest specimen of a black jaguar that everravaged a Mexican jungle. I always thought the black kind was found onlyin Paraguay and the regions down there, but I'm quite sure now that atleast one of them has been roaming up here, and he is bound to have kin, too. Ned, isn't he a terror? If he'd got at you he'd have ripped you inpieces in half a minute. "

Ned shuddered again. Even in death the great black jaguar was capable ofinspiring terror. He had never before seen such a picture of magnificentand sinister strength. He was heavier and more powerful than a tiger, and he knew that the jaguar often became a man-eater. 

"I'd like to have that skin to lay upon the parlor of my palatial home, if I ever have one, " said Obed, "and I reckon that you and I had betterstick pretty close together while we are in this jungle. Our pistols arenot loaded now, and we have no more ammunition. "

They did not dare to sleep again in the same place, fearing that thejaguar might have a mate which would seek revenge upon them, but, acouple of hundred yards further down, they found in the river a littleisland, twelve or fifteen feet square. Here they felt that the waterwould somehow give them security, and they lay down once more. 

Ned was awakened a second time by that terrifying pu-pu-pu. Itapproached through the forest but it stopped at the point where the deadbody of the black giant lay. He knew that it was the voice of the mate. He listened a long time, but he did not hear it again, and he concludedthat the second jaguar, after the brief mourning of animals, had goneaway. He fell asleep again, and did not awaken until day. 

They were now practically unarmed, but they kept the pistols, for thesake of show in case any peons of the jungle should offer trouble, andpressed forward, with all the speed possible in so dense a tangle offorest. In the deep shade of trees and bushes Ned continually saw theshadows of immense black jaguars. He knew that it was only nerves andimagination, but he did not like to be in a condition that enabled fancyto play him such tricks. He longed more than ever for the open plains, even with dust and thirst. 

Already they saw the mountains rising before them, terrace afterterrace, and, three days after the encounter with the jaguar, theybegan to ascend the middle slopes between the tierra caliente and thelofty sierras. The whole character of the country changed. The tropicaljungle ceased. They now entered magnificent forests of oak, pine, planetree, mimosas, chestnut and many other varieties. They also saw thebamboo, the palm and the cactus. The water was fresher and colder, andthey felt as if they had come into a new world. 

But the question of food supply returned. They had used the wild fruitsin abundance, always economizing strictly with their tortillas andfrijoles. Now they had eaten the last of these and a diet of fruit alonewould not do. 

"We'll have to sell a pistol in the way that we sold the musket, " saidNed. 

"I hate to do it, " said Obed, "but I don't see anything else that we cando. We might seize our food at the first hut we find, but whatever maybe the quarrels between the Mexicans and Texans, I'm not willing to robany of these poor peons. "

"Nor I, " said Ned with emphasis. "My pistol goes first. "

They found the usual adobe hut in a pleasant valley, and the nobleseñor, the proprietor, was at home playing a mandolin. He did notsuspect them to be Gringos, but he was quite sure that they werebrigands and he made the exchange swiftly and gladly. Two days later theother pistol went in the same way, and they began to think how theycould acquire new weapons and plenty of ammunition for them. They sat inthe shade of a great oak while they discussed the question. It wascertainly a vital one. Dangerous enough at any time, the long journeythrough Mexico would become impossible without arms. 

"If we could loot them from the soldiers I wouldn't mind at all, " saidObed. "The soldiers are to act against Texas, according to the tale youtell, and the tale is true. All's fair in flight and war, and if such achance comes our way I'm going to take it. "

"So am I, " said Ned. 

But such a chance was in no hurry to present itself. They went on for anumber of days and came now to the region, bordering the high sierras, passing through vast forests of oak and pine, and seeing scarcely anyhabitation. Here, as they walked toward twilight along one of the narrowpaths, a voice from the bushes cried: "Halt!"

Ned saw several gun barrels protruding from the foliage, and wasobedient to the command. He also threw up his hands and Obed White wasno slower than he. Ned judged from the nature of the ambush that theyhad fallen among brigands, then so prevalent in Mexico, and the thoughtgave him relief. Soldiers would carry him back to Santa Anna, but surelybrigands would not trouble long those who had nothing to lose. 

"It is well, friends, that you obey so quickly, " said a man in gaudycostume as he stepped from the bushes followed by a half dozen others, evil looking fellows, all carrying guns and pistols. Ned noticed thattwo of the guns were rifles of long and slender barrel, undoubtedly ofAmerican make. 

"Good-evening, Captain, " said Obed White in his smoothest tones. "Wewere expecting to meet you, as we learned that we are in the territorywhich you rule so well. "

The man frowned and then smiled. 

"I see that you are a man of humor, amigo, " he said, "and it is well. Your information is correct. I rule this territory. I am Captain JuanCarossa and these are my men. We collect tribute from all who pass thisway. "

"A worthy task and, I have no doubt, a profitable one. "

"Always worthy but not always profitable. However, I trust that you canmake it worth our while. "

A look of sadness passed over the expressive features of Obed White. 

"You look like a brave and generous man, Señor Juan Carossa, " he saidsorrowfully, "and it grieves both my young friend and myself to the verycenter of our hearts to disappoint you. We have nothing. There is not acent of either gold or silver upon us. Jewels we admire, but we havethem not. You may search. "

He held wide his arms and Ned did likewise. Carossa gave an order to oneof his men, a tall fellow, swathed in a red serape, to make the search, and he did so in such a rapid and skillful manner that Ned marveled. Hefelt hands touching him here and there, as light as the fall of a leaf. Obed was treated in the same fashion, and then the man in the red serapeturned two empty and expressive palms to his chief. 

Carossa swore fluently, and bent a look of deep reproach upon Ned andObed. 

"Señors, " he said, "this is an injustice, nay more, it is a crime. Youcome upon the territory over which we range. You put us to the troubleof stopping you, and you have nothing. All our risk and work arewasted. "

Obed shook his head in apology. 

"It is not our fault, " he said. "We had a little money, but we spent itfor food. We had some arms also, but they went for food too, so you see, good kind Captain Carossa, we had nothing left for you. "

"But you have two good serapes, " said the Captain. "Had you money wewould not take them from you, but it must not be said of Captain Carossaand his men that they went away with nothing. I trust, señor, that youdo not think me unreasonable. "

Obed White considered. Captain Carossa was a polite man. So was he. 

"We can ill afford to part with these cloaks or serapes, " he said, "butsince it must be we cannot prevent it. Meanwhile, we ask you to offer usyour hospitality. We are on the mountains now, and the nights are cold. We would be chilled without our cloaks. Take us with you, and, in themorning, when the warm sunshine comes we will proceed. "

Carossa laughed and pulled his long black mustaches. "Santiago, but youhave a spirit, " he said, "and I like it. You shall have your request andyou may come with us but to-morrow you go forth stripped and shorn. Mymen cannot work for nothing. Spanish or Mexican, English or Gringo youmust pay. Gringo you are, but for that I do not care. It is in truth thereason why I yield to your little request, because you can never bringthe soldiers of Santa Anna down upon us. "

Obed While smiled. The look upon his face obviously paid tribute to thecraft and courage of Juan Carossa, the great, and Carossa therefore waspleased. The brigand captain did not abate one whit from his resolutionto have their serapes and their coats too, but he would show them firstthat he was a gentleman. He spoke to his men, and the fellow with thered serape led the way along a narrow path through a forest of myrtleoaks. They went in single file, the Captain about the middle, and justbehind him Obed, with Ned following. Ned as usual was silent, but Obedtalked nearly all the time and Carossa seemed to like it. Ned saw thatthe brigand leader was vain, eager to show his power and resource, buthe was sure that, at bottom, he was cruel, and that he would turn themforth stripped and helpless in the forest. 

Night came down suddenly, but the man in front lighted a small lanternthat he took from under his serape, and they continued the march withunabated speed. The forest thinned, and about nine o'clock they cameinto an open space. The moon was now out and Ned saw a group of fourrectangular buildings, elevated on mounds. The buildings, besides beingrectangles themselves, were so placed that the group made a rectangle. The structures of stone were partly ruined, and of great age. Theyfollowed the uniform plan of those vast and mysterious ruins found sooften in Southern and Central Mexico. The same race that erected thepyramids on the Teotihuacan might have raised these buildings. 

"My home! The quarters of myself and my men, " said Carossa, dramatically, pointing to the largest of the buildings. "We do not knowwho built it. It goes far beyond the time of Cortez, but it serves usnow. The peon will not approach it, because Carossa is there and maybeghosts too. "

"I'm not afraid of ghosts, " said Obed White. "Lead on, most noblecaptain. We appreciate your hospitality. We did not know that you weretaking us to a palace. "

Captain Carossa deigned to be pleased again with himself, and, takingthe lantern from the man in the red serape, he led the way. He enteredthe large building by means of a narrow passageway in one of the angles, passed through an unroofed room, and then came to a door at which bothNed and Obed gazed with the most intense curiosity. The doorway was madeof only three stones, two huge monolithic door jambs, each seven feethigh, nearly as wide and more than two feet thick. Upon them rested alintel also monolithic, but at least twenty feet in length, with a widthof five feet and a thickness of three feet. It was evident to Ned thatmighty workmen had once toiled here. 

"Is not that an entrance fit for a king?" said the brigand captain, again making a dramatic gesture. 

"It is fit for Captain Juan Carossa, which is more, " said Obed Whitewith suave courtesy. 

Captain Carossa bowed. Once more he deigned to be pleased with himself. Then he led through the doorway and Ned uttered a little cry ofadmiration. They stood in a great room with a magnificent row ofmonolithic pillars running down the center. A stone roof had oncecovered the room, but it had long since fallen in. The interior of thewalls was plain, made of stones and mortar, once covered with cement, deep blood red in color, of which a few fragments remained. But thewalls on the outside were covered with splendid panels of mosaic workvaried now and then by sculptured stones. The stone used on the outsidewas of a light cream color. But the boy did not see the mosaic panelsuntil later. 

Silent and studious, these vast ruins of a mysterious race made a greatappeal to Ned. He forgot the rough brigands for a moment, and stoodthere looking at the walls and great columns, upon which the moon waspouring a flood of beams. What were these outlaws to those mightybuilders whom the past had swallowed up so completely?

The brigands were already lighting a fire beside one of the hugemonoliths, and Carossa lay down on a serape. The fire blazed up, but itdid not detract from the weird effect of the Hall of Pillars. One of themen warmed food which he brought from another of the ruined houses, andCarossa told his prisoners to eat. 

"What I give you to-night, and what I shall give you to-morrow morningmay be the last food that you will have for some time, " he said, "soenjoy it as best you may. "

He smiled, his lips drawing back from his white teeth, and in somesingular way he made Ned think of the black jaguar and his black lipswrithing back from his great fangs. Why had Obed spoken of coming withthem? Better to have been stripped in the path, and to have gone onalone. But he ate the food, as the long marching had made him hungry, and lay down within the rim of the firelight. 

The men also ate, and Ned saw that they were surly. Doubtless they hadendured much hardship recently and had secured little spoil. He heardmuttered sounds which he knew were curses. He became more uneasy thanever. Certainly little human kindness lurked in the hearts of such asthese, and he believed that Carossa was playing with them for his ownamusement, just as a trainer with a steel bar makes the animals in acage do their tricks. 

The mutterings among the men increased. Carossa spoke to one of them, who brought forth a stone jar from a recess in the wall. Tin cups wereproduced and all, including Carossa, drank pulque made from the magueyplant. They offered it also to Ned and Obed, but both declined. 

The pulque did not make the men more quarrelsome, but seemed to plungethem into a lethargy. Two or three of them hummed doleful songs, as ifthey were thinking of homes to which they could not go. One began toweep, but finally spread out his serape, lay down on it and went tosleep. Three or four others soon did the same. Two sat near the greatmonolithic doorway, with muskets across their knees. Undoubtedly theywere intended to be sentinels, but Ned noted that their heads drooped. 

"I shall sleep now, my Gringo guests, " said Carossa, "and I advise youto do the same. You cannot alter anything, and you will need thestrength that sleep brings. "

"Your advice is good, " said Obed, "and we thank you, Captain Carossa, for your advice and courtesy. Manners are the fine finish of a man. "

His serape had not yet been taken from him, and he rolled himself in it. Ned was already in his, lying with his feet to the smoldering fire. Theboy did not wish to sleep, nor could he have slept had he wished. But hesaw that Carossa soon slumbered, and the sentinels by the doorwayseemed, at least, to doze. He turned slightly on his side, and looked atObed who lay about eight feet away. He could not see the man's face, buthis body did not stir. Perhaps Obed also slept. 

A wind was now rising and it made strange sounds among the vast ruins. It was a moan, a shriek and a hoarse sigh. Perhaps the peons were not sofar wrong! The ghosts did come back to their old abodes. Ned was gladthat he was not alone. Even without Obed the company of brigands wouldhave been a help. He lay still a long time. 

The coals of the fire went out, one by one, and where they had glowedonly black ashes lay. The wind among the ruins played all kinds ofstrange variations, and Ned was never more awake in his life. He took alast look at the sentinels, and he was sure that they slept, sitting, with their muskets across their laps. Then he rose to his knees andwith difficulty checked a cry of astonishment when he saw Obed rising atthe same time. They remained on their knees a moment or two looking ateach other and then, simultaneously they rose to their feet. Theircomprehension was complete. 

Ned looked down at Carossa. The brigand chief slept soundly and his facein repose was wholly evil. The gayety and courtesy that they had seenupon it awake were only a mask. 

Obed stepped lightly to one of the pillars and Ned followed him. He knewwhat Obed was seeking. Here was the great chance. The brigands, carelessfrom long immunity, had stacked their guns against the pillar, and Nedand Obed promptly selected the two American rifles that Ned had noticed. Hung by each was a large supply of powder and bullets to fit which theyalso took. Two of the best machetes were chosen too, and then they wereready to go. With the rifle in his hand, the great weapon with which thepioneer made his way from ocean to ocean, Ned had strength and courage. He believed that Obed and he could defeat the entire force of brigands, but he awaited the signal of his older comrade. 

Standing close together behind the massive pillar they could not now seethe sentinels at the doorway. Ned was quite sure that they were sleepingand that he and his comrade could steal past them. But Obed turned inanother direction and Ned followed without a word. The man had caught aglimpse of a second entrance at the opposite side of this hall ofpillars, and the two darted into it. 

They found themselves in a passage less than the height of a man, andonly about three feet wide, but Obed led on boldly, and Ned, with equalboldness, followed. The wall was about five feet thick, and they cameout into a court or patio surrounded by four ruined buildings. The floorof the patio was cement, upon which their footsteps made no noise, and, going through the great apertures in one of the ruined buildings, theystood entirely on the outside of the mass of ancient temples, orwhatever it may have been. 

"Ned, " whispered Obed, "we ought to go right down on our knees and givethanks. We've not only escaped from Carossa and his cutthroats, butwe've brought with us two American rifles; good enough for anybody andtwo or three hundred rounds of ammunition, the things that we neededmost of all. "

"It must have been more than chance, " said Ned with emotion. "It musthave been a hand leading us. "

"When I proposed to go with them I thought we might have a chance ofsome kind or other. Well, Captain Carossa, you meant us evil, but youdid us good. Come, Ned, the faster we get away from these ghosts thebetter. Besides, we've got more to carry now. "

They had also brought away with them their packs of food, but they didnot mind the additional weight of the weapons, which were worth more tothem than gold or jewels. They listened a minute or two to see if anyalarm had been raised, but no sound came from the Hall of Pillars, andwith light steps and strong hearts they began another march on theirnorthward journey. 

They traveled by the moon and stars, and, as they were not hindered nowby any great tangle of undergrowth, they made many miles before dawn, although they were ascending steadily. They had come upon the edge ofthe great central plateau of Mexico, which runs far into the north andwhich includes much of Texas. Before them lay another and great changein the country. They were now to enter a land of little rain, wherethey would find the ragged yucca tree, the agave and the cactus, thescrubby mesquite bush and clumps of coarse grass. But they had passedthrough so much that they did not fear it. 

They hunted for an hour after sunrise, before they found a small brook, at which they drank, and, in spirit, returned the thanks which Obed hadsaid so emphatically were due. Then, wrapped in the useful serapes, theywent to sleep once more in a thicket. They had been sure that theMexicans could not trail them, and their confidence was justified. Whenthey awoke in the afternoon no human being was in sight, and theirloaded rifles lay undisturbed beside them. 

Then they entered upon the plain, plodding steadily on over a dusty graylandscape, but feeling that their rifles would be ample protectionagainst anything that they might meet. The sun became very hot, and theylonged at times for the shade of the forest that they had left behind, but they did not cease their march. Off to their left they saw toweringmountains with a green film along their slopes that they knew to beforests of oak and pine; and such was the nature of man that they lookedat them regretfully. Obed White, glancing at Ned, caught Ned glancing athim, and both laughed. 

"That's it, " said Obed. "How precious is the thing that slips away. Whenwe were in the forest we wanted the open country, but now in the opencountry we want the forest. But we're making progress, Ned. Don't forgetthat. "

"I don't, " said Ned. "But when we get further North into the vaststretches of the arid plateau, we must have something more tocarry--water bottles. "

"That's so. We can't do without them. Maybe, too, Ned, we can pick up acouple of good horses. They'd be a wonderful help. "

"We'll hope for everything we need, " said Ned cheerfully. "Now I wonder, Obed, if the attack has been made on Texas. Do you think we can yet getthere in time?"

"I hope so, " replied Obed thoughtfully. "You were a long time in SanJuan de Ulua, but armies move slowly, and they have plenty of troublesof their own here in Mexico. I would wager almost anything that noMexican force in great numbers has yet crossed the Rio Grande. "

"Then we may be in time. Obed, we'll push for the north with every ounceof strength we have. "

"That's just what we'll do. Courage defeats a multitude of sins. "

They traveled now for nearly a week in a direction north slightly bywest, suffering at times from heat, and once from a tropical rain stormthat deluged them. While the rain poured upon them, they kept theirserapes wrapped around their powder, and let their bodies take theworst. The rain, for a while, was very cold, but the powder wasprecious, and after a while the sun came out, drying and warming themagain. They were compelled to swim two narrow but deep rivers, a mostdifficult task, as they had arms, ammunition and food to carry withthem. 

They noticed stretches of forest again, and passed both scattered housesand villages. Their knowledge of Spanish and their rifles were theirprotection. But in some places the people seemed to care nothing eitherabout Santa Anna or those who might oppose him. They were content tolead lives in a region which furnished food almost of its own accord. Just before approaching one of these villages Ned shot another jaguar. It was not black like the first, nor so large. It was about five feet inlength, and yellowish in color, with a splendid skin, which, at Obed'ssuggestion, they removed for purposes of barter. It was a wise idea, asthey traded it in the village for two large water bottles. The peoplethere were so indifferent to their identity that they sat in the plazain the evening, and watched the young people dance the fandango. 

It was only a crude little village in the Mexican wilderness. The peoplewere more Indian than Mexican. There was not much melody in their music, and not much rhythm in their dance, but they were human beings, enjoyingthemselves after labor and without fear. Both Ned and Obed, sittingoutside the circle of light with their rifles across their knees, feltit. The sense of human companionship, even of strangers, was verypleasant. The music and the glowing faces appealed very strongly to theboy. Silent, thoughtful, and compelled by circumstances to live a hardlife, he was nevertheless young with all the freshness of youth. Obedsaw, and he felt a deep sympathy for this lad who had wrapped himselflike a younger brother around his heart. 

"Just you wait, Ned, " he said, "until we reach our own people across theRio Grande. Then we'll have lots of friends and they'll be friends allthe stronger, because you will be the first to bring them news of thetreacherous attack that is to be made upon them. "

"If we get there in time, " said Ned, "and, Obed, I am beginning tobelieve that we will get there in time. "

They passed for hunters, and that night they slept in the village, wherethey received kindness, and departed again the next morning on the long, long journey that always led to the north. 

CHAPTER X

CACTUS AND MEXICANS

They now came upon bare, wind-swept plains, which alternated withblazing heat and bitter cold. Once they nearly perished in a Norther, which drove down upon them with sheets of hail. Fortunately theirserapes were very thick and large, and they found additional shelteramong some ragged and mournful yucca trees. But they were much shaken bythe experience, and they rested an entire day by the banks of a shallowlittle brook. 

"Oh, for a horse, two horses!" said Obed. "I'd give all our castles inSpain for two noble Barbary steeds to take us swiftly o'er the plain. "

"I think we'll keep on walking, " said Ned. 

"At any rate, we're good walkers. We must be the very best walkers inthe world judging from the way we've footed it since we left the castleof San Juan de Ulua. "

They refilled their water bottles, despite the muddiness of the stream, and went on for three or four days over the plain, having nothing forscenery save the sandy ridges, the ragged yuccas, dwarfed and uglymesquite bushes, and the deformed cactus. 

It was an ugly enough country by day, but, by night, it had a sort ofweird charm. The moonlight gave soft tints to the earth. Now and thenthe wind would pick up the sand and carry it away in whirling gusts. Thewind itself had a voice that was almost human and it played many notes. Lean and hungry wolves now appeared and howled mournfully, but wereafraid to attack that terrible creature, man. 

They saw sheep herders several times, but the herders invariablydisappeared over the horizon with great speed. Neither Ned nor Obedmeant them any harm, and they would have liked to exchange a few wordswith human beings. 

"They think of course that we're brigands, " said Obed. "It's whatanybody would take us for. Evil looks corrupt good intentions. "

The next day Obed was lucky enough to shoot an antelope, and they hadfresh food. It was a fine fat buck, and they jerked and dried theremainder of the body in the sun, taking a long rest at the same time. Obed was continually restraining Ned's eagerness to hurry on. 

"The race is to the swift if he doesn't break down, " he said, "butyou've got to guard mighty well against breaking down. I think we'regoing to enter a terrible long stretch of dry country, and we want ourmuscles to be tough and our wind to be good. "

Obed was partially right in his prediction as they passed for three daysthrough an absolutely sterile region. It was not sandy, however, but thesoil was hard and baked like a stone. Then they saw on their left highbut bare and desolate mountains, and soon they came to a little river ofclear water, apparently flowing down from the range. The stream was notover twenty feet wide and two feet deep, but its appearance wasinexpressibly grateful to both. They sat down on its banks and looked ateach other. 

"Ned, " said Obed, "how much dust of the desert do you think I amcarrying upon me? Let your answer be without prejudice. Friendship inthis case must not stand in the way of truth. "

"Do you mean by weight or by area?"

"Both. "

"Answering by guess I should say about three square yards, or aboutthree pounds. Wouldn't you say about the same for me?"

"Just about the same. I should say, too, that we carry at least twelveor fifteen kinds of dirt. It is well soaked in our hair and also in ourclothes, and, as we may not get another good chance for a bath in amonth, we'd better use our opportunity. "

They reveled in the cool waters. They also washed out all theirclothing, including their serapes, and let the garments dry in the sun. It was the most luxurious stop that they had made and they enjoyed it tothe full. Ned, scouting a little distance up the stream, shot a fine fatdeer among the bushes, and that night they had a feast of tender steaks. Obed had obtained flint and steel at the Indian village, at which theyhad seen the fandango, and he could light a fire with them, a mostdifficult thing to do. Their fire was of dried cactus, burning rapidly, but it lasted long enough for their cooking. After the heartiest mealthat they had eaten in a long time, they stretched out by the river, listening to its pleasant flow. The remainder of the deer they had hunghigh in the branches of a myrtle oak about forty yards away. 

"We haven't got our horses, " said Obed, "but we're making progress. Timeand tide will carry man with them if he's ready with his boat. "

"Perhaps we've been lucky, too, " said Ned, "in passing through what ismostly a wilderness. "

"That's so. The desert is a hard road, but in our case it keeps enemiesaway. "

They were lying on their serapes, the waters sang softly, the night wasdark but very cool and pleasant, and they were happy. But Ned suddenlysaw something that made him reach out and touch his companion. 

"Look!" he whispered, pointing a finger. 

They saw a dark figure creep on noiseless feet toward the tree, from abough of which hung their deer. It was only a shadow in the night, butthey knew that it was a cougar, drawn by the savor of the deer. 

"Don't shoot, " whispered Obed. "He can't get our meat, but we'll watchhim try. "

They lay quite still and enjoyed the joke. The cougar sprang again andagain, making mighty exertions, but always the rich food swung just outof his reach. Once or twice his nose nearly touched it, but the two orthree inches of gulf which he could never surmount were as much as twoor three miles. He invariably fell back snarling, and he became soabsorbed in the hopeless quest that there was no chance of his noticingthe man and boy who lay not far away. 

The humor of it appealed strongly to Ned and Obed. The cougar, after somany vain leaps, lay on the ground for a while panting. Then he ran upthe tree, and as far out on the bough as he dared. He reached delicatelywith a forefoot, but he could not touch the strips of bark with whichthe body was tied. Then he lay flat upon the bough and snarled again andagain. 

"That's a good punishment for a rascally thief, " whispered Obed. "Idon't blame him for trying to get something to eat, but it's our deer. Let him go away and do his own hunting. "

The cougar came back down the tree, but his descent was made with lessspirit than his ascent. Nevertheless he made another try at the jumping. Ned saw, however, that he did not do as well as before. He never camewithin six inches of the deer now. At last he lay flat again on theground and panted, staying there a full five minutes. When he got up hemade one final and futile jump, and then sneaked away, exhausted andashamed. 

"Now, Ned, " said Obed, "since the comedy is over I think we can safelygo to sleep. "

"Especially as we know our deer is safe, " said Ned. 

Both slept soundly throughout the remainder of the night. Toward morningthe cougar came back and looked longingly at the body of the deerhanging from the bough of the tree. He thought once or twice of leapingfor it again, but there was a shift of the wind and he caught the humanodor from the two beings who lay forty yards away. He was a large andstrong beast of prey, but this odor frightened him, and he slunk offamong the trees, not to return. 

Ned and Obed stayed two days beside the little river, taking a completerest, bathing frequently in the fresh waters, and curing as much of thedeer as possible for their journey. Then, rather heavily loaded, theystarted anew, always going northward through a sad and rough land. Nowthey entered another bare and sterile region of vast extent, walking forfive days, without seeing a single trace of surface water. Had it notbeen for their capacious water bottles they would have perished, and, even with their aid, it was only by the strictest economy that theylived. The evaporation from the heat was so great that after a mouthfulor two of water they were invariably as thirsty as ever, inside of fiveminutes. 

They passed from this desert into a wide, dry valley between baremountains, and entered a great cactus forest, one of the most wonderfulthings that either of them had ever seen. The ground was almost level, but it was hard and baked. Apparently no more rain fell here than in thegenuine desert of shifting sand, and there was not a drop of surfacewater. Ned, when he first saw the mass of green, took it for a forest oftrees, such as one sees in the North, but so great was his interest thathe was not disappointed, when he saw that it was the giant cactus. 

The strange forest extended many miles. The stems of the cactus rose toa height of sixty feet or more, with a diameter often reaching two feet. Sometimes the stems had no branches, but, in case they did, the branchesgrew out at right angles from the main stem, and then curving abruptlyupward continued their growth parallel to the parent stock. 

The stems of these huge plants were divided into eighteen or twentyribs, within which at intervals of an inch or so were buds, withcushions, yellow and thick, from which grew six or seven large, and manysmaller spines. 

Most of the cactus trees were gorgeous with flowers, ranging from a deeprich crimson through rose and pink to a creamy white. 

The green of the plants and the delicate colors of the flowers werewonderfully soothing to the two who had come from the bare and burningdesert. There their eyes had ached with the heat and glare. They hadlonged for shade as men had longed of old for the shadow of a rock in aweary land. In truth they found little shade in the cactus forest, butthe green produced the illusion of it. They expected to find flowing orstanding water, but they went on for many miles and the soil remainedhard and baked, as it can bake only in the rainless regions of highplateaus. 

They found the forest to be fully thirty miles in length and severalmiles in width. Everywhere the giant cactus predominated, and on itseastern border they found two Indian men and several women and childrengathering the fruit, from which they made an excellent preserve. TheIndians were short in stature and very dark. All started to run whenthey saw the white man and boy, both armed with rifles, approaching, butNed and Obed held up their hands as a sign of amity and, after somehesitation, they stopped. They spoke a dialect which neither Ned norObed could understand, but by signs they made a treaty of peace. 

They slept that night by the fire of their new friends and the next daythey were fortunate enough to shoot a deer, the greater part of whichthey gave to the Indians. The older of the men then guided them out ofthe forest at the northern end, and indicated as nearly as he could, bythe same sign language, the course they should pursue in order to reachTexas. They had gone too far to the west, and by coming back toward theeast they would save distance, as well as pass through a better country. Then he gravely bade them farewell and went back to his people. 

Ned and Obed now crossed a low but rugged range of mountains, and cameinto good country where they were compelled to spend a large part oftheir time, escaping observation. It was only the troubled state of thepeople and the extreme division of sentiment among them that saved thetwo from capture. But they obtained news that filled both with joy. Fighting had occurred in Texas, but no great Mexican army had yet goneinto the north. 

Becoming bold now from long immunity and trusting to their Mexicanaddress and knowledge of Spanish and its Mexican variants, they turnedinto the main road and pursued their journey at a good pace. They wereuntroubled the first day but on the second day they saw a cloud of dustbehind them. 

"Sheep being driven to market, " said Obed. 

"I don't know, " replied Ned, looking back. "That cloud of dust is atleast a mile away, but it seems to me I saw it give out a flash or two. "

"What kind of a flash do you mean?"

"Bright, like silver or steel. There, see it!"

"Yes, I see it now, and I think you know what makes it, Ned. "

"I should say that it is the sun striking on the steel heads of longlances. "

"So should I, and I say also that those lances are carried by Mexicancavalrymen bound for Texas. It may not be a bad guess either that thisis the vanguard of the army of Cos. I infer from the volume of dust thatit is a considerable force. "

"Therefore it is wise for us to leave the road and hide as best we can. "

"Correctly spoken. The truth needs no bush. It walks without talking. "

They turned aside at once, and entered a field of Indian corn, wherethey hoped to pass quietly out of sight, but some of the lancers came onvery fast and noticed the dusty figures at the far edge of the field. Many of the Mexicans were skilled and suspicious borderers, and thehaste with which the two were departing seemed suspicious to them. 

Ned and Obed heard loud and repeated shouts to halt, but pretending notto hear passed out of the field and entered a stretch of thin forestbeyond. 

"We must not stop, " said Obed. "Being regular soldiers they will surelydiscover, if they overtake us, that we are not Mexicans, and two orthree lance thrusts would probably be the end of us. Now that we areamong these trees we'll run for it. "

A shout came from the lancers in the corn field as soon as they saw thetwo break into a run. Ned heard it, and he felt as the fox must feelwhen the hounds give tongue. Tremors shook him, but his long and silentmental training came to his aid. His will strengthened his body and heand Obed ran rapidly. Nor did they run without purpose. Bothinstinctively looked for the roughest part of the land and the thickeststretches of forest. Only there could they hope to escape the lancerswho were thundering after them. 

Ned more than once wished to use his rifle, but he always restrained theimpulse, and Obed glanced at him approvingly. He seemed to know what waspassing in the boy's mind. 

"Our bullets would be wasted now, even if we brought down a lancer ortwo, " he said, "so we'll just save 'em until we're cornered--if we are. Then they will tell. Look, here are thorn bushes! Come this way. "

They ran among the bushes which reached out and took little bits oftheir clothing as they passed. But they rejoiced in the fact. Horsescould never be driven into that dense, thorny growth, and they mightevade pursuers on foot. The thorn thicket did not last very long, however. They passed out of it and came into rough ground with a generaltrend upward. Both were panting now and their faces were wet withperspiration. The breath was dry and hot and the heart constrictedpainfully. They heard behind them the noise of the pursuit, spread nowover a wide area. 

"If only these hills continue to rise and to rise fast, " gasped ObedWhite, "we may get away among the rocks and bushes. "

There was a rapid tread of hoofs, and two lancers, with their longweapons leveled, galloped straight at them. Obed leaped to one side, butNed, so startled that he lost command of himself, stopped and stoodstill. He saw one of the men bearing down upon him, the steel of thelance head glittering in the sunlight, and instinctively he closed hiseyes. He heard a sharp crack, something seemed to whistle before hisface, and then came a cry which he knew was the death cry of a man. Hehad shut his eyes only for a moment, and when he opened them he saw theMexican falling to the ground, where he lay motionless across his lance. Obed White stood near, and his rifle yet smoked. Ned instantly recoveredhimself, and fired at the second lancer who, turning about, gallopedaway with a wound in his shoulder. 

"Come Ned, " cried Obed White. "There is a time for all things, and it istime for us to get away from here as fast as we can. "

He could not be too quick for Ned, who ran swiftly, avoiding anotherlook at the silent and motionless figure on the ground. The riderlesshorse was crashing about among the trees. From a point three or fourhundred yards behind there came the sound of much shouting. Ned thoughtit to be an outburst of anger caused by the return of the woundedlancer. 

"We stung 'em a little, " he panted. 

"We did, " said Obed White. "Remember that when you go out to slay youmay be slain. But, Ned, we must reload. "

They curved about, and darting into a thick clump of bushes put freshcharges in their rifles. Ned was trembling from excitement andexertion, but his anger was beginning to rise. There must always come atime when the hunted beast will turn and rend if it can. Ned had beenthe hunted, now he wanted to become the hunter. Obed and he had beatenoff the first attack. There were plenty more bullets where the other twohad come from, and he was eager to use them. He peered out of thebushes, his face red, his eyes alight, his rifle ready for instant use. But Obed placed one hand on his shoulder:

"Gently, Ned, gently!" he said. "We can't fight an entire Mexican army, but if we slip away to some good position we can beat off any littleband that may find us. "

It was evident that the Mexicans had lost the trail, for the time being. They were still seeking the quarry but with much noise and confusion. Atrumpet was blown as if more help were needed. Officers shouted ordersto men, and men shouted to one another. Several shots were fired, apparently at imaginary objects in the bushes. 

"While they're running about and bumping into one another we'll regain alittle of our lost breath which we'll need badly later, " said Obed. "Wecan watch from here, and when they begin to approach then it's up andaway again. "

Those were precious minutes. The ground was not good for the lancers whousually advanced in mass, and, after the fall of one man and thewounding of another, the soldiers on foot were not very zealous insearching the thickets. The breathing of the two fugitives became easyand regular once more. The roofs of their mouths were no longer hot anddry, and their limbs did not tremble from excessive exertion. Ned hadturned his eyes from the Mexicans and was examining the country in theother direction. 

"Obed, " he said, "there's a low mountain about a mile back of us, andit's covered with forest. If we ever reach it we can get away. "

"Yes--if we reach it, " said Obed, "and, Ned, we'll surely try for it. Ah, there they come in this direction now!"

A squad of about twenty men was approaching the thicket rapidly. Ned andObed sprang up and made at top speed for the mountain. The soldiersuttered a shout and began to fire. But they had only muskets and thebullets did not reach. Ned and Obed, having rested a full ten minutes, ran fast. They were now descending the far side of the hill and meant tocross a slight valley that lay between it and the mountain. When theywere near the center of this valley they heard the hoofs of horsemen, and again saw lancers galloping toward them. These horsemen had gonearound the hill, and now the hunt was in full cry again. 

Ned and Obed would have been lost had not the valley been intersected alittle further on by an arroyo seven or eight feet deep and at leastfifteen feet wide. They scrambled down it, then up it and continuedtheir flight among the bushes, while the horsemen, compelled to stop onthe bank, uttered angry and baffled cries. 

"The good luck is coming with the bad, " said Obed. "The foot soldierswill still follow. They know that we're Texans and they want us. Do yousee anybody following us now, Ned?"

"I can see the heads of about a dozen men above the bushes. "

"Perhaps they are delegated to finish the work. The whole army of Coscan't stop to hunt down two Texans, and when we get on that mountain, Ned, we may be able to settle with these fellows on something like fairterms. "

"Let's spurt a little, " said Ned. 

They put on extra steam, but the Mexicans seemed to have done the same, as presently, appearing a little nearer, they began to shout or fire. Ned heard the bullets pattering on the bushes behind him. 

"A hint to the wise is a stitch in time, " said Obed White. "Thosefellows are getting too noisy. I object to raucous voices making loudoutcries, nor does the sound of bullets dropping near please me. I shallgive them a hint. "

Wheeling about he fired at the nearest Mexican. His rifle was a longrange weapon and the man fell with a cry. The others hesitated and thefugitives increased their speed. Now they were at the base of themountain. Now they were up the slope which was densely clothed withtrees and bushes. 

Then they came to a great hollow in the stone side of the ridge, anindentation eight or ten feet deep and as many across, while above themthe stone arched over their heads at a height of seventy or eighty feet. 

"We'll just stay here, " said Obed White. "You can run and you can run, but the time comes when you can run no more. They can't get at us fromoverhead, and they can't get at us from the sides. As for the front, Ithink that you and I, Ned, can hold it against as many Mexicans as maycome. "

"At least we'll make a mighty big try, " said Ned, whose courage rosehigh at the sight of their natural fort. They had their backs to thewall, but this wall was of solid stone, and it also curved around oneither side of them. Moreover, he had a chance to regain his breathwhich was once more coming in hot and painful gasps from his chest. 

"Let's lie down, Ned, " said Obed, "and pull up that log in front ofthis. "

Near them lay the stem of an oak that had fallen years before. All theboughs had decayed and were gone, so it was not a very difficult task todrag the log in front of them, forming a kind of bar across the alcove. As it was fully a foot in diameter it formed an excellent fortificationbehind which they lay with their rifles ready. It was indeed a miniaturefort, the best that a wilderness could furnish at a moment's notice, andthe fighting spirit of the two rose fast. If the enemy came on they wereready to give him a welcome. 

But the two heard nothing in the dense forest in front of them. Thepursuers evidently were aware of the place, in which they had takenrefuge, and knew the need of cautious approach. Mexicans do not lackbravery, but both Obed and Ned were sure there would be a long delay. 

"I think that all we've got to do for the present, " said Obed, "is towatch the woods in front of us, and see that none of them sneaks up nearenough for a good shot. "

Nearly an hour passed, and they neither saw nor heard anything in theforest. Then there was a rushing sound, a tremendous impact in front ofthem and something huge bounded and bounded again among the bushes. Itwas a great rock that had been rolled over the cliff above, in the hopethat it would fall upon them, but the arch of stone over their heads wastoo deep. It struck fully five feet in front of them. Both werestartled, although they knew that they were safe, and involuntarily theydrew back. 

"More will come, " said Obed. "Just as one swallow does not make asummer, one stone does not make a flight. Ah, there it is now!"

They heard that same rushing sound through the air, and a bowlderweighing at least half a ton struck in front of their log. It did notbound away like the first, but being so much heavier buried half itsweight in the earth and lay there. Obed chuckled and regarded the bigstone with an approving look. 

"It's an ill stone that doesn't fall to somebody's good, " he said. "Thatbig fellow is squarely in the path of anybody who advances to attack us, and adds materially to our breastwork. If they'll only drop a few morethey'll make an impregnable fortification for us. "

The third came as he spoke, but being a light one rolled away. Thefourth was also light, and alighting on the big one bounded back intothe alcove, striking just between Ned and Obed. It made both jump andshiver, but they knew that it was a chance not likely to happen again ina hundred times. The bombardment continued for a quarter of an hourwithout any harm to either of the two, and then the silence came again. Ned and Obed pushed the rock out of the alcove, leaving it in front ofthem and now their niche had a formidable stone reinforcement. 

"They'll be slipping up soon to look at our dead bodies, " whisperedObed, "and between you and me, Ned, I think there will be a greatsurprise in Mexico to-day. "

They lay almost flat and put the muzzles of their rifles across the log. Both, used to life on the border, where the rifle was a necessity, werefine shots and they were also keen of eye and ear. They waited for awhile which seemed interminably long to Ned, but which was not morethan a quarter of an hour, and then he heard a slight movement among thetrees somewhat to their left. He called Obed's attention to it and theman nodded:

"I hear it, too, " he whispered. "Those investigators are cautious, butthey'll have to come up in front before they can get at us, and then wecan get at them, too. We'll just be patient. "

Ned was at least quiet and contained, although it was impossible to bepatient. They heard the rustling at intervals on their right, then itchanged to their front, and he saw a black head, covered with asombrero, peep from behind a tree. The head came a little farther, disclosing a shoulder, and Obed White fired. They heard a yell of pain, and a thrashing among the bushes, but the sound rapidly moved fartherand farther away. 

"That fellow was stung badly, " said Obed White with satisfaction, "andhe won't come back. I'm glad to see, Ned, that you held your fire, keeping ready for any other who might come. "

Ned glowed at the compliment. He had cocked his rifle, and was ready buthe remained cool, wasting no shot. 

"I fancy that they now know we are here, " said Obed, who loved to talk, "and that we have not been demolished by the several tons of rock thatthey have sent down from above. A shot to the wise is sufficient. Keepdown, Ned! Keep down!"

From a point sixty or seventy yards away Mexicans, lying among the treesor in the undergrowth, suddenly opened a heavy fire upon the rocky fort. The Mexicans were invisible but jets of smoke arose in the brush. Bullets thudded on the log or stones, or upon the stone wall above thetwo, but both Ned and Obed were sheltered well and they were nottouched. Nevertheless it was uncomfortable. The impact of the bulletsmade an unpleasant sound, and there was always a chance that one of themmight angle off from the stone and strike a human target. Obed howeverwas cheerful. 

"They're wasting good ammunition, " he said. "They'll need that later onwhen they attack the Texans. After all, Ned, we're serving a goodpurpose when we induce the Mexicans to shoot good powder and lead here, and not against our people. "

Encouraged by the failure of the besieged to reply to their fire theMexicans came closer and grew somewhat incautious. Ned saw one of themsheltered but partially by a bush and he fired. The man uttered a cryand fell. Ned saw the bush moving and he hoped the man was not slain, but he never knew. 

The volleys from the Mexicans ceased, and silence came again in thewoods. Wisps of smoke floated here and there among the trees, but alight wind soon caught them and carried them away. Ned and Obed, rollinginto easier positions, talked cheerfully. 

"I don't think they'll try to rush us, " said Obed. "The Mexicans are notafraid to charge breastworks, but they'll hardly think we two are worththe price they would have to pay. Perhaps they'll try to starve us out. "

"And that they can't do because we have provisions for several days. "

"But they don't know it. Nor do we want to stay here for several days, Ned. Texas is calling to us, and we should be traveling northwardinstead of lying under a rock besieged by Mexicans. "

But they were compelled anew to make heavy drafts upon their patience. The Mexicans kept quiet a long time. Finally a shot fired from some highpoint grazed Ned's cap, and flattened against the rock behind him. Theboy involuntarily ducked against the earth. Obed also lay lower. 

"Some Mexican must have climbed a tree, " said the Maine man. "He's wherehe can look over our fortifications and that gives him an advantage. Italso gives him a disadvantage because it will be harder for him to comedown out of that tree unaided than it was for him to go up in it. We'llstick as close as we can under the log, until he sends in the secondshot. "

They waited about ten minutes until the Mexican fired again. He was inthe boughs of a great oak about fifty yards away, and following theflash of his weapon they saw his chest and shoulders as he leanedforward to take aim and pull the trigger. Obed fired and the soldierdropped to the ground. There was a noise in the underbrush, as if hiscomrades were dragging him away and then the great silence came again. As Obed reloaded he said grimly:

"I think we're done with the tree-climbers. Evil to him who evil does. They're cured of that habit. "

It was now mid-afternoon and the sun was blazing down over the cliffsand forest. It grew very hot in the alcove. No breath of wind reachedthem there, and they began to pant for air. 

"I hope night will come soon, " said Ned. 

"It will be here before long, " said Obed, "but something else willarrive first. "

"What is that?"

"Look, there to the right over the trees. See the dark spot in the sky. Ned, my boy, a storm is coming and it is for you and me to say 'let itcome. '"

"What will it do for us?"

"Break up the siege, or at least I think so. Unless it drives directlyin our faces we will be sheltered out here, but the Mexicans will haveno such protection. And, Ned, if you will listen to one who knows, youwill understand that storms down here can be terrific. "

"Then the more terrific it is the better for us. "

"Just so. See, Ned, how that black spot grows! It is a cloud of quiterespectable size. Before long it will cover all the skies, and younotice too that there is absolutely no wind. "

"It is so. The stillness is so great that I feel it. It oppresses me. Itis hard for me to draw my breath. "

"Exactly. I feel just the same way. The storm is coming fast and it isgoing to be a big one. The sun is entirely hidden already, and the airis growing dark. We'll crouch against the wall, Ned, and keep ourrifles, powder and ourselves as dry as possible. There goes the thunder, growling away, and here's the lightning! Whew, but that made me jump!"

An intense flash of lightning burned across the sky, and showed theforest and hills for one blazing moment. Then the darkness closed in, thick and black. The two, wrapped closely in their serapes, crouchedagainst the stone wall and watched the storm gather in its full majestyand terror. 

CHAPTER XI

THE LONG CHASE

Ned, despite his brave heart and strong will, felt a deep awe. Storms onthe great uplands of North America often present aspects which aresublime and menacing to the last degree. The thunder which had beengrowling before now crashed continually like batteries of great guns, and the lightning flashed so fast that there was a rapid alternation ofdazzling glare and impervious blackness. Once, the lightning struck inthe forest near them with a terrible, rending crash, and trees wentdown. Far down in the gorges they heard the fierce howl of the wind. 

Ned shrank closer and closer against the rocky wall, and, now and then, he veiled his eyes with one hand. If one were to judge by eye and earalone it would seem that the world was coming to an end. Cast away inthe wilderness, he was truly thankful for the human companionship of theman, Obed White, and it is likely that the man, Obed White, was just asthankful for the companionship of the boy, Edward Fulton. 

All thought of another attack by the Mexicans passed for the present. They knew that the besiegers themselves would be awed, and would fleefor refuge, particularly from the trees falling before the strokes oflightning. It was at least two miles to any such point of safety, andNed and Obed saw a coming opportunity. Both lightning and thunder ceasedso abruptly that it was uncanny. The sudden stillness was heavy andoppressive, and after the continued flare of the lightning, the darknesswas so nearly impenetrable that they could not see ten yards in front ofthem. 

Then the rain came in a tremendous cataract, but it came from the south, while they faced the north. Hence it drove over and past their alcoveand they remained dry. But it poured so hard and with such a sweep androar that Obed was forced to shout when he said to Ned:

"I've never been to Niagara and of course I've never been behind thefalls there but this must be like it. The luck has certainly turned inour favor, Ned. The Mexicans could never stand it out there withoutshelter. "

"I don't see how it can last long, " shouted Ned in reply. 

"It can't. It's too violent. But it's the way down here, rushing fromone extreme to another. As soon as it begins to ease up, we'll move. "

The darkness presently began to thin rapidly, and the heavy drumming ofthe rain on the rocks and forest turned to a patter. 

"I think it's a good time to go, Ned, " said Obed. "In fifteen minutes itwill stop raining entirely and the Mexicans, if they are not drowned, may come back for us. We can't keep ourselves dry, but we'll protect ourrifles and ammunition. We've got a good chance to escape now, especiallysince night will soon be here. "

They left the overhanging cliff which had guarded them so well in moreways than one, and entered the forest, veering off to the left, andpicking their way carefully through the underbrush. Ned suddenly sprangaside, shuddering. A Mexican, slain in the battle, lay upon his side. But Obed was practical. 

"I know it's unpleasant to touch him, " he said, "but he may have whatwe need. Ah, here is a pistol and bullets for it, and a flask of powderwhich his own body has helped to keep dry. It's likely that we'll haveuse for these before we get through, and so I'll take 'em. "

He quickly secured the pistol and ammunition, and they went on, traveling rapidly westward. The rain ceased entirely in twenty minutes, and all the clouds passed away, but night came in their place, coveringtheir flight with its friendly mantle. They were wet to the waist andthe water dripped from the trees upon them, but these things did nottrouble them. They felt all the joy of escape. Ned knew that neither ofthem, if taken, could expect much mercy from the brutal Cos. 

They came after a while to a gorge, through which a torrent rushed, cutting off their way. It was midnight now. They saw that the stream wasvery muddy and that it bore on its current much débris. 

"We'll just sit down here and rest, " said Obed. "This is nothing morethan a brook raised to a river by the storm, and, in another hour ortwo, it will be a brook again. Rise fast, fall fast holds true. "

They sat on a log near the stream and watched it go down. As theirmuscles relaxed they began to feel cold, and had it not been for theserapes they would have been chilled. In two hours the muddy littleriver was a muddy little brook and they walked across. All the whilenow, a warm, drying wind was blowing, but they kept on for some timelonger in order that the vigorous circulation of the blood might warmtheir bodies. Then, seeking the best place they could find, they laydown among the bushes, despite the damp, and slept. 

Ned was the first to awake the next day, and he saw, by a high sun, thatthey were on a slope, leading to a pretty valley well grown in grass. He took a few steps and also stretched both arms. He found that hismuscles were neither stiff nor sore and his delight was great. Obedstill slumbered peacefully, his head upon his arm. 

Ned walked a little further down the slope. Then he jumped back and hidbehind a bush. He had caught a glimpse of a horse saddled and bridled inthe Mexican manner, and it was his first thought that a detachment fromthe army of Cos was riding straight toward them. But as he stood behindthe bush, heart beating, eyes gazing through the leaves, he saw that itwas only a single horse. Nor was it coming toward him. It seemed to bemoving about slowly in a circle of very limited area. Then, leaving thebush, he saw that the horse was riderless. He watched a long time to seeif the owner would appear, and as none came he went back and awakenedObed White. 

"What! What!" said Obed, opening his eyes slowly and yawning mightily. "Has the day come? Verily, it is a long night that has no ending. And soyou have seen a horse, Ned, a horse saddled and bridled and with noowner! It can't be the one that King Richard offered his kingdom for, and since it isn't we'll just see why this caparisoned animal is theregrazing in our valley. "

The two went down the slope. The horse was still there, grazing in hisgrassy circle, and as the two approached he drew away a little but didnot seem to be frightened. Then Ned understood, or at least his beliefwas so strong that it amounted to conviction. 

"It's the horse of the soldier whom you shot yesterday, " he said. "Youremember that he galloped away among the bushes. No doubt, too, he wasdriven a long distance by the storm. He can't be accounted for in anyother manner. "

"There are some guesses so good that you know at once they're right, "said Obed, "and yours is one of them, Ned. Now that is a valuable horse. One of the most valuable that ever grazed in a valley of Mexico or anyother valley. He's so precious because we want him, and we want him sobad that he's worth a million dollars to us. "

"That one of us may ride him to Texas. "

"Yes, and we may be able to secure another. You stay here, Ned, and letme catch him. Horses like me better than some men do. "

Ned sat down and Obed advanced warily, holding out his hand andwhistling gently. It was a most persuasive whistle, soft and thrillingand the horse raised his head, looked contemplatively out of largelustrous eyes at the whistler. Obed advanced, still whistling, in themost wonderful, enticing manner. Ned felt that if he were a horse hecould not resist it, that he would go to the whistler, expecting toreceive oats, corn, and everything else that a healthy horse loves. Itseemed to have some such effect upon the quarry that Obed coveted, because the horse, after withdrawing a step, advanced toward the man. 

Obed stopped, but continued to whistle, pouring forth the most beautifuland winning trills and quavers. The horse came and Obed, reaching out, seized the bridle which hung loose. He stroked the horse's head and theanimal rubbed his nose against his shoulder. The conquest was complete. Bridle in hand, Obed led the way and Ned met him. 

"I think our good horse here was lonesome, " said Obed, "Horses that areused to human beings miss 'em for a while when they lose 'em, and we'renot enslaving our friend by taking him. Here's a lariat coiled at thesaddle bow; we'll just tether him by that, and let him go on with hisgrazing, while we get our breakfast. You will notice, too, Ned, thatwe've taken more than a horse. See this pair of holster pistols swungacross the saddle and ammunition to fit. The enemy is still supplying uswith our needs, Ned. "

As they ate breakfast they resolved to secure another horse. Obed was ofthe opinion that the army of Cos was not far away, and he believed thathe could steal one. At least, he was willing to try on the followingnight, and, if he succeeded, their problem would be simplified greatly. 

They remained nearly all the morning in the little valley and devoted alarge part of the time to developing their acquaintance with the horse, which was a fine animal, amenable to good treatment, and ready to followhis new masters. 

"He looks like an American horse, " said Obed, with satisfaction, "andmaybe he is one, stolen from the Texans. He'll carry one of us over manymiles of sand and cactus, and he'll be none the worse for it. But heneeds a friend. Horse was not made to live alone. It's my sympathy forhim as much as the desire for another mount that drives me to the theftwe contemplate. "

Ned laughed and lolled on the grass which was now dry. 

"Yon stay here with Bucephalus or Rosinante or whatever you choose tocall him, " continued Obed, "and I think I'll cross the hills, and see ifCos is near. If we're going to capture a horse, we must first know wherethe horse is to be found. "

"Suppose I go along, too. "

"No, it would be easier for the Mexicans to see two than one, and weshouldn't take unnecessary risks. Be sure you stay in the valley, Ned, because I want to know where to find you when I come back. I've an ideathat the Mexican army isn't far, as we wound around a good deal duringthe storm and darkness, and covered no great distance, if it werecounted in a straight line. At least I think so. "

"You'll find me here. "

Obed went toward the east, and Ned continued to make himself comfortableon the grass, which was so long and thick that it almost hid his body. But it was truly luxurious. It seemed that after so much hardship anddanger he could not get enough rest. He felt quite safe, too. It wouldtake a careful observer to see him lying there in the deep grass. It waswarm and dry where he lay, and the little valley was well hemmed in byforest in which crotons, mimosas, myrtle oaks, okote pine and many othertrees grew. Some had large rich blossoms and he admired their beauty. 

His eyes wandered back from the forest to their new friend, the horse. Besides being an animal of utility the horse added to their comradeship. Ned felt that he still had a friend with him, although Obed was away. Obed had spoken truly. It was a fine horse, a bay, tall, strong andyoung, grazing with dignified content, at the end of a lariat aboutforty feet in length. 

Ned watched the horse idly, and soon he saw him raise his head, standperfectly still for a moment or two, and then sniff the wind. The nextinstant an extraordinary manifestation came from him. He whirled aboutand galloped so fast to the end of his tether that he was thrown down bythe sharp jerk. He regained his feet and stood there, trembling allover. His great eyes were distended. Ned had never before seen such apicture of terror. 

The boy raised himself a little in the grass, but not so high that hewould be seen by an enemy. It was his first idea that Mexicans had come, but the horse would not show such fright at the presence of humanbeings. He looked in the direction opposite to the spot on which thehorse was standing. At first he saw nothing, but with intent looking hedetected a great body crouched in the grass and stealing forward slowly. It was their old enemy, the jaguar, not a black one but tawny in color. 

Ned's rage rose. First a jaguar had attacked him, and now another wasstalking their horse. He felt pity for the poor animal which was tied, and which could not escape. Now man who had tied him must save him. Nedknew that if he cut the lariat the horse in its terror might run awayand never be retaken. A shot might be heard by the Mexicans, but hebelieved that the probabilities were against it, and he decided to usethe rifle. 

He raised himself just a little more, careful to make no noise, andwatched the jaguar stealing through the tall grass, so intent on thehorse that it failed to notice the most dangerous of all enemies who laynear. But Ned waited until the flank of the animal was well presented, and, taking a sure aim, fired. 

The jaguar shot up into the air, as if an electric spring had beenreleased, then came down with a thump and was dead. The horse neighed interror at sight of his leaping foe and trembled more violently thanever. Ned went to him first, and tried to soothe him which was a longand difficult task. At last, he untethered the horse and led him to thefar end of the valley, where he tethered him again at least two hundredyards from the dead body of the jaguar. Returning he looked at thefallen animal, and marked with pleasure the correctness of his aim. Hehad shot the jaguar squarely through the heart. Then he went back to hisplace in the grass, but he did not doze or dream. The Mexicans mightcome, drawn by his shot, and even if they did not, a member of theunpleasant jaguar tribe might take a notion to stalk the only availablehuman being in that grassy little valley. 

But no Mexicans appeared, nor did he observe any other jaguar. When thesun set, he began to feel a little uneasy about Obed. His uneasinessincreased with the darkness, but he was finally reassured by a whistlefrom the head of the valley. Then he saw Obed's tall figure stridingdown the slope in the dusk, and he went forward to meet him. 

"I suppose you've spent the afternoon sleeping, " said Obed. 

"I might have done so, but we had a visitor. "

"A visitor? What kind of a visitor?"

"A jaguar. He wanted to eat our horse and as the horse could not getaway, being tethered strongly, I had to shoot his jaguarship. "

He showed Obed the body, and his comrade approved highly of the shot. 

"And now for the history of my own life and adventures during theafternoon, " said Obed. "The country to the eastward is not rough, and Imade good time through it. Sure enough the army of Cos is there, aboutfive miles away, camped in a plain. It was beaten about a good deal bythe storm, and it keeps poor guard, because it is in its own country farfrom any expected foe, and because the Mexicans are Mexicans. I think, Ned, that we can lift a horse without great trouble or excessive danger. We'll go over there about midnight. "

"And we'd better take our present horse with us, " said Ned, "or otherjaguars may come. "

They remained in their own valley until the appointed time, and then setout on a fairly dark night, each taking his turn at riding the horse. They halted at the crest of a low hill, from which they saw the flash ofcamp fires. 

"That's Cos and his army, " said Obed. "They're down there, sprawled allabout the valley, and I imagine that by this time they're all asleep, including a majority of the sentinels, and that's our opportunity. "

They tethered their own horse and crept down the slope. Soon they cameto the edge of the woods and saw the camp fires more plainly. All hadburned low, but they made out the shapes of tents, and, nearer by, adark mass which they concluded to be the horses belonging to the lancersand other cavalry. They approached within a hundred yards, and saw nosentinels by the horses, although they were able to discern severalmoving figures farther on. 

"Now, Ned, " said Obed, "you stay here and I'll try to cut out a horse, the very best that I can find. Sit down on the ground, and have yourrifle ready. If I'm discovered and have to run for it you shoot thefirst of my pursuers. "

Ned obeyed and Obed stole down toward the horses. Ned knew his comrade'sskill, and he believed he would employ the soft whistle that had been soeffective with the first horse. He watched the dark figure stealingforward, and he admired Obed's skill. It would be almost impossible foranyone to notice so faint a shadow in the darkness. Nevertheless, hisheart beat heavily. Despite all that Obed had said it was a dangeroustask, requiring both skill and luck. 

The faint shadow reached the black blur of the horses and disappeared. Ned waited five minutes, ten, fifteen minutes, while the little pulsesbeat hard in his temples. Then he saw a shadow detach itself from theblack blur. It was the figure of a man and he was on horseback. Obed hadsucceeded. 

Ned remained kneeling, rifle in hand, to guard against any mistake. Theman on horseback rode toward him, while the sprawling army of Cos stillslept. Then Ned saw clearly that it was Obed, and that he rode amagnificent black horse, sixteen hands high, as fiery as any that couldbe found in all Mexico. 

In another moment Obed was by his side, looking down from the height ofhis horse. In the moonlight Ned saw that his face was glowing. 

"Isn't he a beauty?" he said. "And I think, too, that he likes me. Therewere three or four sentinels down there by the horses, but all of themwere fast asleep, and I had time to pick. I've also brought away a rollof blankets, two for each of us, and I never woke a man. Now, Ned, we'refurnished complete, and we're off to Texas with your message. "

"The first thing, I suppose, is to introduce our horses to each other. "

"Correct. You and I are friends, Ned, and so must our horses be. "

They took a last look at the sleeping camp and went away through thewoods. Obed dismounted, and led his horse to the place where the secondwas tied. The two horses whinnied and rubbed noses. 

"It's all right, " said Obed. "When horse and man agree who can stop us?"

Ned mounted the first, the bay, while Obed retained the black. Then theyrode all through the night, coming about dawn to a plain which turnedto sand and cactus, as they advanced further into the north. There wasno water here, but they had rilled their water bottles at the last brookand they had no fear of perishing by thirst. Although they had passedthe army of Cos they did not fail to keep a vigilant watch. They knewthat patrols of Mexicans would be in the north, and the red men werealso to be feared. They were coming into regions across which mountedIndians often passed, doing destruction with rifle and lance, spear andarrow. Both had more apprehension now about Indians than Mexicans. 

At noon of that day they saw four horsemen on their left who shapedtheir course toward theirs in such a manner that if they moved at anequal pace they would meet at the point of a triangle. But the horsesthat Ned and Obed rode were powerful animals, far superior to theordinary Mexican mounts, and they rode steadily ahead, apparently takingno notice of the four on their flank. 

"They're Mexican scouts, " said Obed, "I'm sure of it, but I don'tbelieve that they'll come too close. They see that we have rifles, andthey know the deadly nature of the Texan rifle. If we are friends it'sall right, if we are Texans it will be wise to keep at a good distance. "

Obed was a good prophet. The Mexicans, at a distance of almost a quarterof a mile, raised a great shout. The two took no notice of it, but rodeon, their faces toward the north. 

"I can talk good Spanish or Mexican, " said Obed, "and so can you, butI'm out riding now and I don't feel like stopping for conversation. Ah, there they are shouting again, and as I live, Ned, they're increasingtheir speed. We'll give 'em a sign. "

Obed and Ned wheeled about and raised their rifles. The four Mexicans, who were galloping their ponies, stopped abruptly. Obed and Ned turnedand rode on. 

"We gave 'em a sign, " said Obed, "and they saw it. We're in no danger, Ned. We could beat 'em either in a fight or a run. The battle issometimes to the strong and the race to the swift. "

It was obvious that the Mexicans, who were probably only scouts, did notwant a fight with formidable Texans who carried such long rifles. Theydropped back until Ned, taking a final look, could not tell theirdistant figures from the stem of the lonesome cactus. 

"Horses and rifles are mighty useful in their place, " said Obed. "Add tothem wood and water and what little more a man needs he should be ableto find. "

"It's wood and water that we ought to hunt now. "

"We may strike both before night, but if not we'll ride on a whileanyhow, and maybe we'll find 'em. "

They went deeper into the great upland which was half a desert and halfa plain. Occasionally they saw besides the cactus, mesquite and yuccaand some clumps of coarse grass. 

"Bunch grass, " said Obed, "like that which you find further north, andmighty good it is, too, for cattle and horses. We'll have plenty of foodfor these two noble steeds of ours, and I shouldn't be surprised, too, if we ran across big game. It's always where the bunch grass grows. "

They did not reach wood and water by nightfall, but, riding two hourslonger in a clear twilight, they found both. The plain rose and fell indeep swells, and in the deepest of the swells to which they had yet tocome they found a trickling stream of clear water, free from alkali, fringed on either shore with trees of moderate size. 

"Here we are, " said Obed, "and here we stay till morning. You never knowhow fine water looks until you've been a long time without it. "

They let their horses drink first, and then, going further up thestream, drank freely of the water themselves. They found it cold andgood, and they were refreshed greatly. There was also a belt ofexcellent grass, extending a hundred yards back on either side of thestream, and, unsaddling and tethering their horses, they let them graze. Both Ned and Obed would have liked a fire, but they deemed it dangerous, and they ate their food cold. After supper, Obed walked up the stream alittle distance, examining the ground on either side of the water. Whenhe came back he said to Ned:

"I saw animal tracks two or three hundred yards up the creek, and theywere made by big animals. Buffalo range about here somewhere, and we maysee 'em before we get through. "

"I wouldn't mind having a shot at a fine buffalo, " said Ned. But he wasnot very eager about it. He was thinking more then of sleep. Obed, whilethinking of sleep also, was thinking of other things, too, and he wassomewhat troubled in his mind. But he bore himself as a man of cheerfulcountenance. 

"Now, Ned, " he said, "you and I cannot go forever without sleep. We'vebeen through a good deal and we haven't closed our eyes for thirty-sixhours. I feel as if I had pound weights tied to my eyelids. "

"Two-pound weights are tied to mine. "

"Then we'll prove the value of my foresight in obtaining the two sets ofblankets by using them at once. "

Each lay down between his blankets, and Ned was soon asleep, but Obed, by a violent effort, kept his eyes open. He could never remember a timewhen it seemed sweeter to sleep, but he struggled continually againstit. When he saw that Ned's slumber was deep he rose and walked up anddown the stream again, going a half mile in either direction. 

At one point where there was a break in the fringe of trees the imprintsof the mighty hoofs were numerous, and, mingled with them, were tracksmade by horses' hoofs. It was these that worried Obed so much. They weremade by unshod hoofs, but evidently they were two or three days old, and, after all, the riders might have passed on, not to return. Smothering his anxiety as much as possible he went back to their littlecamp, crept between his two blankets which felt very warm, and began towatch with his eyes and ears, vowing to himself that he would not sleep. 

Yet within two hours he slept. Exhausted nature triumphed over will andclaimed her own. He was not conscious of any struggle. He was awake andthen he was not. The two tethered horses, having eaten all they wanted, also settled themselves comfortably and slept. 

But while the two, or rather the four slept, something was moving farout on the plain. 

It was an immense black mass with a front of more than a mile, and itwas coming toward Ned and Obed. This mass had been disturbed by a greatdanger and it advanced with mighty heavings and tramplings. Ned and Obedslept calmly for a long time, but as the black front of the moving massdrew closer to the creek and its thin lines of trees, the boy stirred inhis blankets. A vague dream came and then a state that was half anawakening. He was conscious in a dim way of a low, thundering sound thatapproached and he sprang to his feet. The next instant a neigh of terrorcame from one of the horses and Obed, too, awoke. 

"Listen!" exclaimed Ned. "Hear that roar! And it's drawing near, too!"

"Yes, it's a buffalo herd!" said Obed. "We're far enough north now to bewithin the buffalo ranges, and they're coming down on us fast. But theymust be scared or be drawn on by something, because it's not yet dawn. "

"All of which means that it's time for us to go. "

"Or be trodden to death. "

Naturally, they had slept in their clothes and they quickly gathered uptheir arms and baggage. Then they released their frightened horses, sprang upon their backs and galloped toward the north. They felt securenow, so far as the herd was concerned. Their horses could easily takethem out of its reach. 

"Maybe they'll stop at the creek, " said Ned. "I should think that thewater would hold anything in this thirsty land. "

Obed shook his head, but offered no further answer. The thunder of thehoofs now filled their ears, and, as the sound advanced steadily, it wasevident that the creek had not stopped the buffalo herd. 

The dawn suddenly came up sharp and clear after the manner of southernlands. The heavens turned blue, and a rosy light suffused the prairie. Then Ned saw the front of the buffalo herd extending two or three milesto right and to left. And he saw more. He saw the cause of the terrorthat had smitten the herd. 

Brown men, almost naked and on horseback, darted in and out among thebuffaloes, shooting and stabbing. They were muscular men, fierce ofcountenance, and their long black hair streamed out behind them. Somecarried rifles and muskets, and others carried lances and bows andarrows. 

"Lipans, " said Obed, "one of the fiercest of all the southwesterntribes. They belong mostly across the Rio Grande, but I suppose they'vecome for the buffalo. Ned, we're not wanted here. "

After the single look they were away toward the north, moving at asmooth and easy gallop. They were truly thankful now that the horsesthey rode were so large and powerful, evidently of American breed. Itwas not difficult to increase the distance between them and the herd, and they hoped to slip away before they were seen by any of the Lipans. But a sudden shout behind them, a long, piercing whoop showed that theyhad reckoned wrong. 

The two looked back. A group of warriors had gathered in advance of theband, and it was obvious, as they galloped on, that they had seen thetwo fugitives. Two or three shook their long lances, and pointed themstraight at Ned and Obed. Then uttering that long, menacing whoop again, the group, about twenty in number, rode straight for the two, while therest continued their work with the herd. 

"It's a chase, " said Obed. "Those fellows want scalps and they don'tcare whether we're Texans or Mexicans. Besides, they may have betterhorses than the Mexican ponies. But it's a long chase that has noturning, and if our horses don't stumble we'll beat them. Look out forpotholes and such places. "

They rode knee to knee, not yet putting the horses to their full speed, but covering the ground, nevertheless, at a great rate. It seemed playfor their fine horses, which arched their necks and sped on, not a dropof perspiration yet staining their glossy skins. Ned felt the thrill, asthe ground spun back under his horse's feet, and the air rushed past hisface. It did not occur to him that the Lipans could overtake them, andtheir pursuit merely added a fresh spice to a magnificent ride. 

He took another look back. The Lipans, although they had lost ground, were still following. They came in a close group, carrying, besidestheir arms, shields, made of layers of buffalo hide. Several woremagnificent war bonnets. Otherwise all were naked save for thebreech-cloth, and their brown bodies were glistening with war paint. Behind them, yet came the black front of the buffalo herd, but it was afull mile away. 

Obed looked also, and his heart smote him. Older and more experiencedthan Ned, he knew that with the fierce Lipans the most powerful of alllures was the lure of scalps. Just as the wolf can trail down the mooseat last, they could follow for days on their tough mustangs. But as heshifted his good rifle a bit he felt better. Both he and Ned weresplendid marksmen, and if the chase were a success for the Lipans therewould also be a bitter fight at the end of it. 

Now he and Ned ceased to talk, the sun blazed down on the plain, and onsped the chase, hour after hour. 

CHAPTER XII

THE TRIAL OF PATIENCE

The hours of the afternoon trailed slowly away, one by one. Perspirationappeared at last upon the glossy skins of the horses, but their stridedid not abate. The powerful muscles still worked with their fullstrength and ease. Ned never felt a tremor in the splendid horse beneathhim. But when he looked back again there were the Lipans, a littlefurther away, but hanging on as grimly as before, still riding in aclose group. 

Ned began to understand now the deadly nature of the pursuit. TheseLipans would follow not merely for hours, but into the night, and if heand Obed were lost to sight in the darkness they would pick up the trailthe next day by the hoof prints on the plain. He felt with absolutecertainty that chance had brought upon them one of the deadliest dangersthey had yet encountered. 

"It's growing a little cooler, Obed, " he said. 

"So it is. The evening wanes. But, Ned, do you see any sign of forest orhigh hills ahead?"

"I do not, Obed. There is nothing but the plain which waves like theripples on a lake, the bunches of buffalo grass here and there, and nowand then an ugly yucca. "

"You see just what I see, Ned, and as there is no promise of shelterwe'd better ease our horses a little. Our lives depend upon them, andeven if the Lipans do regain some of their lost ground now it will notmatter in the end. "

They let the horses drop into a walk, and finally, to put elasticityback into their own stiffened limbs, they dismounted and walked awhile. 

"If the Lipans don't rest their horses now they will have to do itlater, " said Obed, "but as they're mighty crafty they'll probably slowdown when we do. Do you see them now, Ned?"

"Yes, there they are on the crest of a swell. They don't seem to gain onus much. I should say they are a full mile away. "

"A mile and a half at least. The air of these great uplands is verydeceptive, and things look much nearer than they really are. "

"Look how gigantic they have grown! They stand squarely in the center ofthe sun now. "

The sun was low and the Lipans coming out of the southwest weresilhouetted so perfectly against it that they seemed black andmonstrous, like some product of the primitive world. The fugitives felta chill of awe, but in a moment or two they threw it off, only to haveits place taken a little later by the real chill of the coming night. Awind began to moan over the desolate plain, and their faces were stungnow and then by the fine grains of sand blown against them. But as theLipans were gaining but little, Ned and Obed still walked their horses. 

They went on thus nearly an hour. The night came, but it was not dark, and they could yet see the Lipans following as certain as death. Beforethem the plain still rolled away, bare and brown. There was not a signof cover. Ned's spirits began to sink. The silent and tenacious pursuitweighed upon him. It was time to rest and sleep. The Lipans had beenpursuing for seven or eight hours now, and if they could not catchfugitives in that time they ought to turn back. Nevertheless, there theywere, still visible in the moonlight and still coming. 

Ned and Obed remounted and rode at a running walk, which was easy butwhich nevertheless took them on rapidly. But it became evident that theLipans had increased their pace in the same ratio, as the distance of amile and a half named by Obed did not decrease. Ned looked up longinglyat the sky. There was not a cloud. The moon, round and full, never shonemore brightly, and it seemed that countless new stars had arrived thatvery night. He sighed. They might as well have been riding in broaddaylight. 

Toward midnight the swells and dips of the plain became accentuated, andthey lost sight of the pursuing Lipans. But there was yet no forest tohide them, only the miserable mesquite and the ragged yucca. Save forthem the plain stretched away as bare and brown as ever. Two hours morewith the Lipans still lost to view, Obed called a halt. 

"The Lipans will pick up our trail in the morning, " he said. "Thoughlost to sight we are to their memory dear, and they will hang on. Butour horses are faster than theirs, and as they cannot come near us onthis bare plain, without being seen we can get away. Whereas, I say, andhence and therefore we might as well rest and let our good steeds rest, too. "

"What time would you say it is?"

"About two o' the morning by the watch that I haven't got, and it willbe four or five hours until day. Ned, if I were you I'd lie down betweenblankets. You can relax more comfortably and rest better that way. "

Ned did not wish to do it, but Obed insisted so strongly, and was sopersuasive that he acceded at last. They had chosen a place on a swellwhere they could see anything that approached a quarter of a mile away, and Obed stood near the recumbent boy, holding the bridles of the twohorses in one hand and his rifle in the other. 

The man's eyes continually traveled around the circle of the horizon, but now and then he glanced at the boy. Ned, brave, enduring andcomplaining so little, had taken a great hold upon his affection. Theywere comrades, tried by many dangers, and no danger yet to come couldinduce him to desert the boy. 

The moon and stars were still very bright, and Obed, as his eyestraveled the circle of the horizon, saw no sign of the Indian approach. But that the Lipans would come with the dawn, or some time afterward, hedid not have the slightest doubt. He glanced once more at Ned and thenhe smiled. The boy, while never meaning it, was sleeping soundly, andObed was very glad. This was what he intended, relying upon Ned's utterexhaustion of body and mind. 

All through the remaining hours of the night the man, with the bridlesof the two horses in one hand and the rifle in the other, kept watch. Now and then he walked in a circle around and around the sleeping boy, and once or twice he smiled to himself. He knew that Ned when he awokewould be indignant because Obed let him sleep, but the man felt quiteable to stand such reproaches. 

Obed, staunch as he was, felt the weirdness and appalling loneliness oftime and place. A wolf howled far out on the plain, and the answeringhowl of a wolf came back from another point. He shivered a little, buthe continued his steady tread around and around the circle. 

Dawn shot up, gilding the bare brown plain with silver splendor for alittle while. Obed awoke Ned, and laughed at the boy's protests. 

"You feel stronger and fresher, Ned, " he said, "and nothing has beenlost. "

"What of you?"

"I? Oh, I'll get my chance later. All things come to him who works whilehe waits. Meanwhile, I think we'd better take a drink out of our waterbottles, eat a quick breakfast and be off before we have visitors. "

Once more in the saddle, they rode on over a plain unchanged incharacter, still the same swells and dips, still the same lonesomeyuccas and mesquite, with the occasional clumps of bunch grass. 

"Don't you think we have shaken them off?" asked Ned. 

"No, " replied Obed. "They would scatter toward dawn and the one whopicked up the trail would call the others with a whoop or a rifle shot. "

"Well, they've been called, " said Ned, who was looking back. "See, there, on the highest ridge. "

A faint, dark blur had appeared on a crest three or four miles behindthem, one that would have been wholly invisible had not the air been soclear and translucent. It was impossible at the distance to distinguishshapes or detach anything from the general mass, but they knew very wellthat it was the Lipans. Each felt a little chill at this pursuit sotenacious and so menacing. 

"I wish that we had some sort of a place like that in which we faced theMexicans, where we could put our backs to the wall and fight!" exclaimedNed. 

"I know how you feel, " said Obed, "because I feel the same way myself, but there isn't any such place, Ned, and this plain doesn't ever giveany sign of producing one, so we'll just ride on. We'll trust to timeand chance. Something may happen in our favor. "

They strengthened their hearts, whistled to their horses and rodeahead. As on the day before the interminable pursuit went on hour afterhour. It was another hot day, and their water bottles were almostemptied. The horses had had nothing to drink since the day before andthe two fugitives began to feel for them, but about noon they came to alittle pool, lying in a dip or hollow between the swells. It was perhapsfifty feet either way, less than a foot deep and the water was yellowishin color, but it contained no alkali nor any other bitter infusion. Moreover, grass grew around its edges and some wild ducks swam on itssurface. It would have been a good place for a camp and they would havestayed there gladly had it not been for that threat which always hung onthe southern horizon. 

The water was warm, but the horses drank deeply, and Ned and Obedrefilled their bottles. The stop enabled the pursuing Lipans to comewithin a mile of them, but, moving away at an increased pace, they beganto lengthen the gap. 

"The Lipans will stop and water their ponies and themselves just as wehave done, " said Obed. "Everything that we have to endure they have toendure, too. It's a poor rule that doesn't work for one side as well asthe other. "

"It would all look like play, " said Ned, "if we didn't know that it wasso much in earnest. Just as you said, Obed, they're stopping to drink atthe pond. "

A shadow seemed to pass between himself and the blazing glare of thesun. He looked up. It was a shadow thrown by a great bird, with blackwings, flying low. Others of the same kind circled higher. Ned saw witha shiver that they were vultures. Obed saw them, too, and he also sawNed's face pale a little. 

"You take it as an omen, " he said, "and maybe it is, but it's a pooromen that won't work both ways. They're flying back now towards theIndians, so I guess the Lipans had better look out. "

Nevertheless, both were depressed by the appearance of the vultures andthe heat that afternoon grew more intense than ever. The horses, atlast, began to show signs of weariness, but Ned reflected that for everymile they traveled the Lipans must travel one also, and he recalled thewords of Obed that chance might come to their aid. 

Another night followed, clear and bright, with the great stars dancingin the southern skies, and Ned and Obed rode long after nightfall. Againthe Lipans sank from sight, and, as before, the two stopped on one ofthe swells. 

"Now, Obed, " said Ned, "it is your time to sleep and mine to watch. Isubmitted last night and you must submit to-night. You know that youcan't go on forever without sleep. "

"Your argument is good, " said Obed, "and I yield. It isn't worth whilefor me to tell you to watch well, because I know you'll do it. "

He stretched himself out, folded between his blankets, and was soonasleep. The horses tethered to a lonesome yucca found a few blades ofgrass on the swell, which they cropped luxuriously. Then they lay down. Ned walked about for a long time rifle on shoulder. It turned colder andhe wrapped his serape around his shoulders and chest. Finally he grewtired of walking, and sat down on the ground, holding his rifle acrosshis lap. He sat on the highest point of the swell, and, despite thenight, he could see a considerable distance. 

His sight and hearing alike were acute, but neither brought him anyalarm. He tried to reconstruct in his mind the Lipan mode of procedure. With the coming of the night and the disappearance of the fugitives fromtheir sight they would spread out in a long line, in order that theymight not pass the two without knowing it, and advance until midnight, perhaps. Then they, too, would rest, and pick up the trail again in themorning. 

Ned did not know that time could be so long. He had not been watchingmore than three or four hours, and yet it seemed like as many days. Butit was not long until dawn, and then it would be time for them to be upand away again. The horses reposed by the yucca, and, down the far sideof the swell, close to the bottom of the dip, was another yucca. Ned'sglance wandered toward the second yucca, and suddenly his heart thumped. 

There was a shadow within the shadow of the yucca. Then he believed thatit must be imagination, but nevertheless he rose to his feet and cockedhis rifle. The shadow blended with the shadow of the yucca just behindits stern, but Ned, watching closely, saw in the next instant the twoshadows detach and separate. The one that moved was that of a Lipanwarrior, naked save for the breech-cloth and horrible with war paint. Ned instantly raised his rifle and fired. The Lipan uttered a cry andfell, then sprang to his feet, and ran away down the dip. In answer tothe shot came the fierce note of the war whoop. 

"Up, Obed, up!" cried Ned. "The Lipans are coming down upon us. I justshot at one of them in the bush!"

But Obed was up already, running toward the alarmed horses, his blanketsunder one arm and his rifle under the other. Ned followed, and, in aninstant, they were on their horses with their arms and stores. From thenext swell behind them came a patter of shots, and, for the secondtime, the war cry. But the two were now galloping northward at fullspeed. 

"Good work, Ned, my lad, " cried Obed. "I didn't have time to see whatyou shot, but I heard the yell and I knew it must have been a Lipan. "

"He was stalking us, a scout, I suppose, and I just got a glimpse of himbehind a yucca. I hit him. "

"Good eyes and good hand. You saved us. They must have struck our trailin some manner during the night and then they thought they had us. Ah, they still think they have us!"

The last remark was drawn by a shout and another spatter of shots. Twoor three bullets struck alarmingly close, and they increased the speedof their horses, while the Lipans urged their ponies to their best. 

"They're too eager, " said Obed. "It's time to give them a hint thattheir company is not wanted. "

He wheeled and executed with success that most difficult of feats, arunning shot. A Lipan fell from his horse, and the others drew back alittle for fear of Ned, the second marksman. 

"They've taken the hint, " said Obed grimly, as he accomplished a seconddifficult feat, that of reloading his rifle while they were at fullgallop. The Lipans did not utter another war cry, but settled down intoa steady pursuit. 

"I think I'll try a shot, Obed, " said Ned. 

"All right, " said Obed, "but be sure that you hit something. Never wastea good bullet on empty air. "

Ned fired. He missed the Lipan at whom he aimed, but he killed the ponythe warrior was riding. The Indian leaped on the pony that had beenridden by the warrior slain by Obed and continued in the group ofpursuers. Ned looked somewhat chagrined, and Obed noticed it. 

"You did very well, Ned, " he said. "Of course, no one likes to kill ahorse, but it's the horses that bring on the Lipans, and the fewerhorses they have the better for us. "

Ned also reloaded as they galloped and then said:

"Don't you think they're dropping back a little?"

"Yes, they want to keep out of range. They know that our rifles carryfarther than theirs, and they will not take any more risk until theyfinally corner us, of which they feel sure. "

"But of which we are not so sure. "

"No, and we are going to be hidden from them, for a while, by something. You haven't noticed, Ned, that the country is rapidly growing muchworse, and that we are now in what is practically a sandy desert. Youdon't see even a yucca, but you do see something whirling there in thesouthwest. That's a 'dust devil, ' and there's a half dozen more whirlingin our direction. We're going to have a sand storm. "

Ned looked with interest. The "dust devils, " rising up like waterspouts, danced over the surface of the sand. They were a half dozen, then a dozen, then twenty. A sharp wind struck the faces of the twofugitives, and it had an edge of fine sand that stung. All the "dustdevils" were merged and the air darkened rapidly. The cloud of dustabout them thickened. They drew their sombreros far down over theireyes, and rode very close together. They could not see twenty yardsaway, and if they became separated in the dust storm it was not likelythat they would ever see each other again. But they urged their horseson at a good rate, trusting to the instinct of the animals to take themover a safe course. 

Ned had not only pulled the brim of his sombrero down over his eyes, buthe reinforced it with one hand to keep from being blinded, for the time, by the sand, but it was hard work. As a final resort he let the lidsremain open only enough for him to see his comrade who was but threefeet away. Meanwhile, he felt the sand going down his collar, andentering every opening of his clothing, scratching and stinging hisskin. The wind all the time was roaring in his ears, and now and thenthe horses neighed in alarm. But they kept onward. Ned knew that theywere passing dips and swells, but he knew nothing else. 

The storm blew itself out in about three hours. Ned and Obed emergedfrom an obscurity as great as that of night. The wind ceased shriekingand was succeeded by a stillness that was almost deathly in comparison. The sun came out suddenly, and shone brightly over the dips and swells. But Ned and Obed looked at each other and laughed. Both were so thicklyplastered with sand and dust that they had little human semblance. 

Ned shook himself, and a cloud of dust flew from him, but so muchremained that he could not tell the difference. 

"I think we'd better take a drink out of our water bottles, " said Obed. "I'd like mighty well to have a bath, too, but I don't see a bath tubconvenient. Is there any sign of our friends, the enemy, Ned?"

"None, " replied Ned, examining the horizon line. "There is absolutelynothing within view on the plains. "

"Don't you fret about 'em. They'll come. They'll spread out and pick upour trail just as they do every morning. "

Obed spoke dispassionately, as if he and Ned were not concerned in it. His predictions were justified. Before night they saw the Lipans comingas usual in a close group, now at a distance of about three miles. Nedcould not keep from shuddering. They were as implacable as fate. Night, the storm and bullets did not stop them. They could not shake them offin the immense spaces of plain and desert. A kind of horror seized him. Such tenacity must triumph. Was it possible that Obed and he would fallvictims after all? At least it seemed sure that in the end they would beovertaken, and Ned began to count the odds in a fight. Anything seemedbetter than this interminable flight. 

They were cheered a little by the aspect of the country, which began tochange considerably for the better. The cactus reappeared and then a fewtrees, lonesome and ragged, but trees, nevertheless. It is wonderful howmuch humanity a tree has in a sad and sandy land. The soil grew muchfirmer and soon they saw clumps of buffalo grass. Several small groupsof buffalo were also visible. 

"There's better country ahead, as you see, " said Obed. "Besides, I'vebeen along this way before. We'll strike water by dark. "

They reached a tiny brook just as the twilight came, at which both theyand their horses drank. They also took the time to wash their hands andfaces, but they dared not delay any longer for fear of being overtakenby the Lipans. The night and the following day passed in the same manneras the others, and the horses of Ned and Obed, splendid animals thoughthey were, began to show signs of fatigue. One limped a little. Thedreaded was happening. The Indian ponies made only of bone and musclewere riding them down. 

On the other hand, the character of the country now encouraged thefugitives. The yucca and the mesquite turned into oak. They passedthrough large groves and they hoped that they might soon enter a greatforest in which they could hide their trail wholly from the Lipans. Theycrossed two considerable streams, knee deep on the horses, and then theyentered the forest for which they had hoped so much. It was of oakswithout much undergrowth and the ground was hilly. They rode through ituntil past midnight. Then they stopped by the edge of a blue pool, andwhile the other watched with the rifle each took the bath that he hadcoveted so long. 

"I feel that I can fight battles and also run better now that I've gotrid of ten pounds of sand and dust, " said Obed, "and I guess you feelthe same way, Ned. I suppose you've noticed that the other horse hasgone lame, too?"

"Yes, I noticed it. I don't believe either could make much speedto-morrow. "

"They certainly couldn't unless they had a long rest, and here we stay. There need be no secrets between you and me, Ned, about this pursuit. Ithink it's likely that we'll have a fight in the morning, and we mightas well choose our fort. "

The horses were panting and both now limped badly. It was quite evidentthat they were spent. Beyond the pool was a tiny valley or glade with agood growth of grass, and, after tying the reins to the pommels of thesaddles, they released the two faithful beasts there. Obed thought onceof tethering them but he reflected that to do so would make them suretargets of the Indian bullets or arrows. They, too, deserved a chance toescape. 

Then he and Ned looked around for the fort, of which they had spoken, and they found it beyond the pool in an opening which would have beencalled a little prairie in the far north. In the center of this openinggrew a rather thick cluster of trees, and there was some fallen wood. Arifle bullet would not reach from any point of the forest to thecluster. 

They drew up all the fallen wood they could find, helping to turn thering of trees into a kind of fortification, refilled their water bottlesfrom the pool, and sat down to wait, with their rifles and pistolsready. 

Ned felt a kind of relief, the relief that comes to one who, havingfaced the worst so long, now knows that it has been realized. Theterrible chase had gone on for nights and days. Always the Lipans werebehind them. Well, if they were so fond of pursuing, now let them come. By the aid of the dead wood they were fairly well protected from a firein any direction, and the light was sufficient for them to see an enemywho attempted to cross the open. There was a certain grim pleasure inthe situation. 

"They've run us down at last, " said Obed, "but they haven't got us yet. Before you scalp your man just catch him is a proverb that I wouldrecommend to the Lipans. Now, Ned, suppose we eat a little, and braceourselves for the arrival of the pursuit. "

They ate with a good appetite and then lay propped on their elbows, where they could look just over the logs at the circling forest. It wasvery quiet. Nothing stirred among the trees. Their eyes, used now to thehalf dusk, could see almost as well as if it were daylight. Ned finallynoticed some dark objects on the boughs of the trees and called Obed'sattention to them. 

"Wild turkeys, " said Obed, after a long look. "The first we've seen andwe can't take a shot at them. They must know it or they wouldn't sitthere so quiet and easy. "

A half hour later, Ned saw something move among the trees at the nearestpoint of the forest. It looked like a shadow and was gone in aninstant. But his heart leaped. He felt sure that it was a Lipan, andtold Obed of his suspicion. 

"Of course you're right, " said the Maine man. "They may have been therein the woods for an hour spying us out. They've dismounted and have lefttheir horses further back among the trees. Suppose you watch to theright while I face to the left. I think the two of us together can covera whole circle. "

Ned felt a singular composure. It seemed to him that he had passedthrough so many emotions that he had none left now but calm andexpectancy. As the night was somewhat cold he even remembered to throwone of the blankets over his body, as he lay behind the log. Obednoticed it and his sharp eyes brightened with approval. It was obviousthat the Lipans were now in the woods about them, and that the longchase was at an end, but the boy was as steady as a rock. 

Ned looked continually for the second appearance of the shadows. Nothingwithin the range of his half circle escaped him. He saw the wild turkeysunfold their wings, and fly heavily away, which was absolute proof ofthe presence of the Lipans. He finally saw the shadow for the secondtime, and, at almost the same moment, a pink dot appeared in the woods. The crack of a rifle followed, and a bullet knocked up a little dust atleast fifty yards short of them. Obed sniffed contemptuously. 

"One good bullet wasted, " he said, "and one good bullet, I suppose, deserves another, but they won't fire again--yet. It shows that theyknow we're on guard. They won't rush us. They'll wait for time, thirstand starvation. "

Obed was right. Not another shot was fired, nor did any of the Lipansshow themselves. Day came, and the forest was as quiet and peaceful asif it were a park. Some little birds of brilliant plumage sang asheralds of dawn, and sunlight flooded the trees and the opening. Ned andObed moved themselves into more comfortable positions and waited. 

They were to have another terrible trial of Indian patience. No attackwas made. The two lay behind the logs and watched the circle of theforest, until their eyes grew weary. The silence and peace that hadmarked the dawn continued through all the hours of the morning. Althoughthe wild turkeys had flown away, the birds that lived in this forestseemed to take no alarm. They hopped peacefully from bough to bough, andsang their little songs as if there were no alien presence. But Ned andObed had been through too many dangers to be entrapped into a beliefthat the Lipans had gone. They matched patience with patience. The sunwent slowly up toward the zenith, and the earth grew hot, but they wereprotected from the fiery rays by the foliage of the trees. Yet Ned grewrestless. He was continually poking the muzzle of his rifle over the logand seeking a target, although the forest revealed no human being. Finally Obed put his hand upon his arm. 

"Easy, now, easy, Ned, " he said. "Don't waste your strength and nerves. They can't charge us, at least in the daylight, without our seeing them, and, when they come, we want to be as strong of body and brain aspossible. We won't take the fight to them. They must bring it to us. "

Ned blushed. Meanwhile the afternoon dragged on, slow and silent, as themorning had been. 

CHAPTER XIII

THE TEXANS

Late in the afternoon Ned's nerves began to affect him again. Once more, the old longing for action took such strong hold upon him that he couldnot cast it off for a long time. But he hid his face from Obed. He didnot want his older comrade to see that he was white and trembling. Finally, he took some food from his pack and bit fiercely upon it, as heate. It was not for the food that he cared, but it was a relief to bringhis teeth together so hard. Obed looked at him approvingly. 

"You're setting a good example, Ned, " he said, "and I'll follow it. "

He too ate, and then took a satisfactory drink from his water bottle. Meanwhile the sun was setting in a cloudless sky, and both noticed withsatisfaction that it would be a clear night. Eyes, trained like theirs, could see even in the dusk an enemy trying to creep upon them. 

"Do you think you could sleep a while, Ned?" said Obed, persuasively. "Of course, I'll awake you at the first alarm, if the alarm itselfdoesn't do it. Sleep knits us up for the fray, and a man always wants tobe at his best when he goes into battle. "

"How could a fellow sleep now?"

"Only the brave and resolute can do it, " replied Obed, cunningly. "Napoleon slept before Austerlitz, and while no Austerlitz is likely tohappen down here in the wilderness of Northern Mexico there is nothingto keep those who are able from copying a great man. "

The appeal to Ned's pride was not lost. 

"I think I'll try it, " he said. 

He lay down behind the log with his rifle by his side, and closed hiseyes. He had no idea that he could go to sleep, but he wished to showObed his calmness in face of danger. Yet he did sleep, and he did notawaken until Obed's hand fell upon his shoulder. He would have sprungup, all his faculties not yet regained, but Obed's hand pressed himdown. 

"Don't forget where you are, Ned, " said the Maine man, "and that we arestill besieged. "

Yet the night was absolutely still and Ned, from his recumbent position, looked up at a clear sky and many glittering stars. 

"Has anything happened?" he asked. 

"Not a thing. No Lipan has shown himself even among the trees. "

"About what time do you think it is?"

"Two or three hours after midnight, and now I'm going to take a napwhile you watch. Ned, do you know, I've an idea those fellows are goingto sit in the woods indefinitely, safe, beyond range, and wait for us tocome out. Doesn't it make you angry?"

"It does, and it makes me angry also to think that they have our horses. Those were good horses. "

Obed slept until day, and Ned watched with a vigilance that no creepingenemy could pass. The Lipans made no movement, but the siege, silent andinvisible, went on. Ned had another attack of the nerves, but, as hiscomrade was sleeping soundly, he took no trouble to hide it, and let thespell shake itself out. 

The day was bright, burning and hot, and it threatened to pass like itspredecessor, in silence and inaction. Ned and Obed had been lying downor sitting down so long that they had grown stiff, and now, knowing thatthey were out of range they stood up and walked boldly about, tensingand flexing their muscles, and relieving the bodily strain. Ned thoughtthat their appearance might tempt the Lipans to a shot or some otherdemonstration, but no sound came from the woods, and they could not seeany human presence there. "Maybe they have gone away after all, " saidNed hopefully. 

"If you went over there to the woods you'd soon find out that theyhadn't. "

"Suppose they really went away. We'd have no way of knowing it and thenwe'd have to sit here forever all the same. "

Obed laughed, despite the grimness of their situation. 

"That is a problem, " he said, "but if you can't work a problem it willwork itself if you only give it enough time. "

The morning was without result, but in the afternoon they saw figuresstirring in the wood and concluded that some movement was at hand. 

"Ned, " said Obed, "I think we've either won in the contest of patience, or that something else has occurred to disturb the Lipans. Don't you seehorses as well as Indians there among the trees?"

"I can count at least five horses, and I've no doubt there are others. "

"All of which to my mind indicates a rush on horseback. Perhaps theythink they can gallop over us. We'd better lay our pistols on the logs, where we can get at 'em quick, and be ready. "

Ned's sharp eye caught sight of more horses at another point. 

"They're coming from all sides, " he said. 

"You face to the right and I'll face to the left, " said Obed, "and besure your bullet counts. If we bring down a couple of them they willstop. Indians are not fond of charging in the open, and, besides, itwill be hard for them to force their horses in among these logs andtrees of ours. "

Ned did not answer, but he had listened attentively. The muzzle of hisrifle rested upon the log beside his pistol, and, with his eye lookingdown the sights, he was watching for whatever might come. 

A sharp whistle sounded from the wood. At the same instant, three bandsof Lipans galloped from the trees at different points, and convergedupon the little fortress. They were all naked to the waist, and the sunblazed down upon their painted bodies, lighting up their lean faces andfierce eyes. They uttered shout after shout, as they advanced, and asthey came closer, bent down behind the shoulders of their ponies orclung to their sides. 

The tremor of the nerves seized Ned again, but it was gone in a moment. Then a fierce passion turned the blood in his veins to fire. Why werethese savages seeking his life? Why had they hung upon his trail fordays and days? And why had they kept up that silent and invincible siegeso long? Yet he did not forget his earlier resolution to watch for agood shot, knowing that his life hung upon it. But it was hard to holdone's fire when the thud of those charging hoofs was coming closer. 

The horsemen in front of him were four in number, and the leader whowore a brilliant feathered headdress, seemed to be a chief. Ned chosehim for his target, but for a few moments the Lipan made his pony boundfrom side to side in such a manner that he could not secure a good aim. But his chance came. The Lipan raised his head and opened his mouth toutter a great shout of encouragement to his followers. The shout did notpass his lips, because Ned's bullet struck him squarely in the forehead, and he fell backward from his horse, dead before he touched the ground. 

Ned heard Obed's rifle crack with his own, but he could not turn hishead to see the result. He snatched up his pistol and fired a secondshot which severely wounded a Lipan rider, and then all three parties ofthe Lipans, fearing the formidable hedge, turned and galloped back, leaving two of their number lifeless upon the ground. 

Obed had not fired his pistol, but he stood holding it in his hand, hiseyes flashing with grim triumph. Ned was rapidly reloading his rifle. 

"If we didn't burn their noble Lipan faces then I'm mightily mistaken, "said Obed, as he too began to reload his rifle. "A charge that is notpressed home is no charge at all. Hark, what is that?"

There was a sudden crash of rifle shots in the forest, the long whiningwhoop of the Lipans and then hard upon it a deep hoarse cheer. 

"White men!" exclaimed Ned. 

"And Texans!" said Obed. "Such a roar as that never came from Mexicanthroats. It's friends! Do you hear, Ned, it's friends! There go theIndians!"

Across the far edge of the open went the Lipans in wild flight, and, asthey pressed their mustangs for more speed, bullets urged them toefforts yet greater. Fifteen or twenty men galloped from the trees, andNed and Obed, breaking cover, greeted them with joyous shouts, which themen returned in kind. 

"You don't come to much, " exclaimed Ned, "but we can say to you thatnever were men more welcome. "

"Which I beg to repeat and emphasize, " said Obed White. 

"Speak a little louder, " said the foremost of the men, leaning from hishorse and couching one hand behind his ear. 

Ned repeated his words in a much stronger tone, and the man nodded andsmiled. Ned looked at him with the greatest interest. He was of middleage and medium size. Hair and eyes were intensely black, and hiscomplexion was like dark leather. Dressed in Indian costume he couldreadily have passed for a warrior. Yet this man had come from the farnorthern state of New York, and it was only the burning suns of theTexas and North Mexican plains that had turned him to his presentdarkness. 

"Glad to meet you, my boy, " he said, leaning from his horse and holdingout a powerful hand, burnt as dark as his face. "My name's Smith, Erastus Smith. "

Ned grasped his hand eagerly. This was the famous "Deaf" Smith--destinedto become yet more famous--although they generally pronounced it D-e-e-fin Texas. 

"Guess we didn't come out of season, " said Smith with a smile. 

"You certainly didn't, " broke in Obed. "There's a time for all things, and this was your time!"

"I believe they're real glad to see us. Don't you think so, Jim?" saidSmith with a smile. 

The man whom he called Jim had been sitting on his horse, silent, and heremained silent yet, but he nodded in reply. Ned's gaze traveled to himand he was certainly a striking figure. He was over six feet in height, with large blue eyes and fair hair. His expression was singularlygentle and mild, but his appearance nevertheless, both face and figure, indicated unusual strength. Obed had not noticed him before, but now heexclaimed joyfully:

"Why, it's Colonel Jim Bowie! Jim, it's me, Obed White! Shake hands!"

"So it is you, Obed, " said the redoubtable Bowie, "and here we shake. "

The hands of the two met in a powerful clasp. Then they all dismountedand another man, short and thick, shook Obed by the hand and called himby his first name. He was Henry Karnes, the Tennesseean, great scout andfamous borderer of the Texas plains. 

Ned looked with admiration at these men, whose names were great to him. On the wild border where life depended almost continually upon skill andquickness with weapons, "Deaf" Smith, Jim Bowie and Henry Karnes werealready heroes to youth. Ned thrilled. He was here with his own people, and with the greatest of them. He had finished his long journey and hewas with the Texans. The words shaped themselves again and again in hisbrain, the Texans! the Texans! the Texans!

"You two seem to have given the Lipans a lot of trouble, " said Bowie, looking at the two fallen warriors. 

"We were putting all the obstacles we could in the way of what theywanted, " said Obed modestly, "but we don't know what would have happenedif you hadn't come. Those fellows had been following us for days, andthey must have had some idea that you were near, or they would havewaited still longer. "

"They must not have known that we were as near as we were, " said Bowie, "or they would not have invited our attack. We heard the firing andgalloped to it at once. But you two need something better than talk. "

He broke off suddenly, because Ned had sat down on one of the logs, looking white and ill. The collapse had come after so many terribletrials and privations, and not even his will could hold him. 

"Here, you take a drink of this water, it's good and cold, " said "Deaf"Smith kindly as he held out a canteen. "I reckon that no boy has everpassed through more than you have, and if there's any hero you are one. "

"Good words, " said Bowie. 

Ned smiled. These words were healing balm to his pride. To be praisedthus by these famous Texans was ample reward. Besides, he had great andvital news to all, and he knew that Obed would wait for him to tell it. 

"I think, " said Bowie, "that we'd better camp for the night in the clumpof trees that served you two so well, and, before it's dark, we'll lookaround and see what spoil is to be had. "

They found three rifles that had been dropped by slain or woundedLipans, and they were well pleased to get them, as rifles were about tobecome the most valuable of all articles in Texas. They also recoveredNed and Obed's horses, which the Indians had left in the valley, evidently expecting to take them away, when they secured the scalps ofthe two fugitives. 

Ned, after the cold water and a little rest, fully recovered hisstrength and poise, but the men would not let him do any work, tellinghim that he had already done his share. So he sat on his log and watchedthem as they prepared camp and supper. Besides being the Texans and hisown people, to whom he had come after the long journey of perils, theymade a wonderful appeal. These were the bold riders, the dauntless, thefearless. He would not find here the pliancy, the cunning, the craft andthe dark genius of Santa Anna, but he would find men who talkedstraight, who shot straight, and who feared nobody. 

They were sixteen in number, and all were clad wholly in buckskin, withfur caps upon their heads. They were heavily armed, every man carryingat least a rifle, a pistol, and a formidable knife, invented by Bowie. All were powerful physically, and every face had been darkened by thesun. Ned felt that such a group as this was a match for a hundredMexicans or Lipans. 

They worked dextrously and rapidly, unsaddling their horses andtethering them where they could graze in the open, drawing up the deadwood until it made a heap which was quickly lighted, and then cookingstrips of venison over the coals. There was so much life, so muchcheerfulness, and so much assurance of strength and invincibility thatNed began to feel as if he did not have a care left. All the men alreadycalled him Ned, and he felt that every one of them was his friend. 

Karnes put a strip of venison on the sharp end of a stick, and broiledit over the blaze. It gave out a singularly appetizing odor, and when itwas done he extended it to the boy. 

"Here, Ned, " he said, "take this on the end of your knife and eat it. I'll wager that you haven't had any good warm victuals for a week, andit will taste mighty well. "

Ned ate it and asked for more. He would have done his own cooking, butthey would not let him. They seemed to take a pleasure in helping him, and, used as they were to hardships and danger, they admired all themore the tenacity and courage that had brought a boy so far. 

"We can promise you one thing, Ned, " said "Deaf" Smith. "We'll see thatyou and Obed have a full night's good sleep and I guess you'll likethat about as much as a big supper. "

"We certainly will, " said Obed. "Sleep has got a lot of knitting to doin my case. "

"The same is true of me, " said Ned, who had now eaten about all hewanted, "but before I roll up in the blankets I want to say something toyou men. "

His voice had suddenly become one of great gravity, and, despite hisyouth, it impressed them. The darkness had now come, but the fire made acenter of light. They had put themselves in easy attitudes about it, while the horses grazed just beyond them. 

"I come from Texas myself, " said Ned, "although I was born in Missouri. My parents are dead, and I thought I could make my way in Texas. I metMr. Austin who is related to me, and he was good to me more than once. When he went to Mexico to talk with the rulers there about our troublesI went with him. I was a prisoner with him in the City of Mexico, and Ioften saw the dictator, Santa Anna, and his brother-in-law, GeneralCos. "

Ned paused and a deep "Ah!" came from the men. They felt from his faceand manner that he was telling no idle tale. 

"They said many fine words to Mr. Austin, " said Ned, "and always theypromised that they were going to do great things for Texas. But muchtime passed and they did nothing. Also they kept Mr. Austin a prisoner. Then I escaped. I believed that they were preparing to attack Texas. Iwas right. I was recaptured and both President Santa Anna and GeneralCos told me so. They told me because they did not believe I could escapeagain, as they sent me to one of the submarine dungeons under the castleof San Juan de Ulua. But even under the sea I found a friend, Obedhere, and we escaped together. We have since seen the army of GeneralCos, and it is marching straight upon Texas. Santa Anna means to crushus and to execute all our leaders. "

Again came that deep murmurous "Ah!" and now it was full of anger anddefiance. 

"You say you saw the army of Cos?" asked Bowie. 

"Yes, " replied Ned, "I saw it before I was taken to the castle of SanJuan de Ulua and afterward in Northern Mexico, marching straight towardTexas. It is a large force, cannon and lancers, horse and foot. "

"And so Santa Anna has been lulling us with promises, while sending anarmy to destroy us. "

Bowie's tone, so gentle and mild before, grew hard and bitter. Thefirelight flickered across his face and to Ned the blue eyes looked ascold and relentless as death. He had heard strange stories of this man, tales of desperate combats in Mississippi and Louisiana, and he believednow that they were true. He could see the daring and determined soulbehind the blue eyes. 

While Ned was talking "Deaf" Smith was leaning forward with his handbehind his ear. When the story was finished the dark face grew stilldarker, but he said nothing. The others, too, were silent but Ned knewtheir minds. It was a singular little company drawn from differentAmerican states, some from the far north, but all alike in theirdevotion to the vague region then known as Texas. 

"I think, Ned, " said Bowie, "that you have served Texas well. We havebeen divided among ourselves. Many have believed in propitiating SantaAnna and Mexico, but how can you propitiate a tiger that is about todevour you? We cannot trust Mexico, and we cannot trust Santa Anna. Your message settles all doubt and gives us time to arm. Thank God werefused to give up our rifles, because we are going to need them morethan anything else on earth. It was surely more than luck that broughtus this way. We came down here, Ned, on an expedition, half for huntingand half for scouting, and we've found more than we expected. We muststart for Texas in the morning. Is it not so, boys?"

"Yes, " they answered all together. 

"Then, Ned, " said Bowie, "you can tell your story to Sam Houston and allour leaders, and I think I know what they will say. We are few, butSanta Anna and all Mexico cannot ride over Texas. And now it's time foryou and Obed to go to sleep. I should think that after being chasednearly a week you'd be glad to rest. "

"We are, " said Obed, answering for them both, "and once more we want tothank you. If you hadn't come the Lipans would certainly have got us. "

The night, as usual, was chilly, and Ned spread his blankets in front ofthe fire. His saddle formed a pillow for his head, and with one blanketbeneath him, another above him, and the stalwart Texans all about him, he felt a deep peace, nay more, a great surge of triumph. He had madehis way through everything. Santa Anna and Cos could not attack theTexans, unwarned. Neither Mexicans nor Lipans, neither prisons norstorms nor deserts had been able to stop him. 

After the triumphant leap of his blood the great peace possessed himentirely. His mind and body relaxed completely. His eyelids drooped andthe flames danced before him. The figures of the men became dusky. Sometimes he saw them and sometimes he did not. Then everythingvanished, and he fell into a long and sound sleep. 

While Ned and Obed slept, the Texans conferred earnestly. They knew thatevery word Ned had told was true, and they felt that the trouble betweenTexas and Mexico had now come to a head. It must be war. They were fullyaware of the fearful odds, but they did not believe the Texans wouldflinch. Three or four rode a long distance around the camp and scoutedcarefully. But, as they had expected, they saw no sign of the Lipans, who undoubtedly were still fleeing southward, carrying in their hearts ahealthy fear of the long rifles of the Texans. 

After the scouts came back most of the men went to sleep, but Bowie and"Deaf" Smith watched all through the night. Ned moved a little towardthe morning and displaced the blanket that lay over him. Bowie gentlyput it back. 

"He's a good boy as well as a brave one, " he said to Smith, "and we owehim a lot. "

"Never a doubt of that, " said Smith, "and he'll be with us in the comingstruggle. "

When Ned awoke the dawn was barely showing, but all the horses, including his own, were saddled and ready. They ate a brief breakfast, and then they galloped northward over a good country. They did nottrouble to look for the army of Cos, as they knew that it was coming andit was their object to spread the alarm as soon as possible through allthe Texas settlements. Ned, refreshed and strong, was in the center ofthe troop and he rode with a light heart. Obed was on one side of him, and "Deaf" Smith on the other. 

"To-night, " said Smith, "we water our horses in the Rio Grande. "

"And then ho for Texas!" said Obed. 

On they sped, their even pace unbroken until noon, when they made ashort rest for food and water. Then they sped north once more, Bowie, Smith and Karnes leading the way. They said very little now, but everyone in the group was thinking of the scattered Texans, of the women andchildren in the little cabins beyond the Rio Grande, harried already byComanches and Lipans and now threatened by a great Mexican force. Theyhad come from different states and often they were of differingcounsels, but a common danger would draw them together. It wassignificant that Smith, the New Yorker, and Bowie, the Georgian, rodeside by side. 

All through the hot sun of the afternoon they rode on. Twilight foundthem still riding. Far in the night they waded and swam the Rio Grande, and the next morning they stood on the soil that now is Texas. 

CHAPTER XIV

THE RING TAILED PANTHER

Texas was then a vague and undetermined name in the minds of many. Itmight extend to the Rio Grande or it might extend only to the Nueces, but to most the Rio Grande was the boundary between them and Mexico. Sofelt Ned and all his comrades. They were now on the soil which might ownthe overlordship of Mexico, but for which they, the Texans, werespending their blood. It was strange what an attachment they had for it, although not one of them was born there. Beyond, in the outer world, there was much arguing about the right or wrong of their case, but theyknew that they would have to fight for their lives, and for the homesthey had built in the wilderness on the faith of promises that had beenbroken. That to them was the final answer and to people in such aposition there could be no other. 

The sight of Texas, green and fertile, with much forest along thestreams was very pleasant to Ned, and those rough frontiersmen inbuckskin who rode with him were the very men whom he had chosen. He hadbeen in a great city, and he had talked with men in brilliant uniforms, but there everything seemed old, so far away in thought and manner fromthe Texans, and he could never believe the words of the men in brilliantuniforms. There, the land itself looked ancient and worn, but here itwas fresh and green, and men spoke the truth. 

They rode until nearly noon, when they stopped in a fine grove of oaksand pecans by the side of a clear creek. The grass was also rich anddeep here, and they did not take the trouble to tether their horses. Nedwas exceedingly glad to dismount as he was stiff and sore from the longride, and he was also as hungry as a wolf. 

"Lay down on the grass, Ned, an' stretch yourself, " said Karnes. "Whenyou're tired the best way to rest is to be just as lazy as you can be. The ground will hold you up an' let your lungs do their own breathin'. Don't you go to workin' 'em yourself. "

Ned thought it good advice and took it. It was certainly a great luxuryto make no physical exertion and just to let the ground hold him up, asKarnes had said. Obed imitated his example, stretching himself out tohis great thin length on the soft turf. 

"Two are company and twenty are more so, " he said, "especially if you'rein a wild country. My burden of care isn't a quarter as heavy since wemet Jim Bowie, and all the rest of these sure friends and sure shots. This isn't much like San Juan de Ulua is it, Ned? You wouldn't like tobe back there. "

The boy looked up at the vast blue dome of the heavens, then he listeneda moment to the sigh of the free wind which came unchecked a thousandmiles and he replied with so much emphasis that his words snapped:

"Not for worlds, Obed!"

Obed White laughed and rolled over in the grass. 

"I do believe you mean that, Ned, " he said, "and the sentiments that youspeak so well are also mine own. "

Smith and Karnes went a little distance up the creek, and found somebuffalo feeding. They shot a young cow, and in an incredibly short spacetender steaks were broiling over a fire. After dinner all but two wentto sleep. They understood well the old maxim that the more haste theless speed, and that the sleep and rest through the hours of theafternoon would make them fit for the long riding that was yet beforethem. 

At five o'clock they were in the saddle again, and rode until midnight. The next morning the party separated. The men were to carry the blazingtorch throughout the settlements, telling all the Texans that theMexicans were coming and that they were bringing war with them. ButBowie, "Deaf" Smith and Karnes kept on with Ned and Obed. 

"We're taking you to Sam Houston, " said Bowie to Ned. "He's to be thegeneral of all the Texan forces, we think, and we want you to tell himwhat you've told us. "

They began now to see signs of settlements in the river bottoms wherethe forests grew. There were stray little log cabins, almost hiddenamong the oaks and pecans. Women and children came forth to see theriders go by. The women were tanned like the men, and often they, too, were clothed in buckskin. The children, bare of foot and head, seemedhalf wild, but all, despite the sun, had the features of the Northernraces. 

Ned could not keep from waving his hand to them. These were his people, and he was thankful that he should have so large a part in the attemptto save them. But he only had fleeting glimpses because they rode veryfast now. He was going to Sam Houston, famous throughout all theSouthwest, and Houston was at one of the little new settlements somedistance away. He would tell his story again, but he knew that theTexans were already gathering. The messengers detached from the grouphad now carried the alarm to many a cabin. 

Several times at night they saw points of fire on the horizon and theywould pause to look at them. 

"That's the Texans signaling to one another, " said "Deaf" Smith. "They're passing the word westward. They're calling in the buffalohunters and those who went out to fight the Comanches and Lipans. "

Ned had alternations of hope and despondency. He saw anew how few theTexans were. Their numbers could be counted only in thousands, while theMexicans had millions. Moreover, the tiny settlements were scatteredwidely. Could such a thin force make a successful defense against thearmies of Cos and Santa Anna? But after every moment of despair, therebound came, and he saw that the spirit of the people was indomitable. 

At last, they rode into a straggling little village by the side of awide and shallow river. All the houses were built of logs or roughboards, and Ned and his companions dismounted before the largest. Theyhad already learned that Sam Houston was inside. Ned felt intensecuriosity as they approached. He knew the history of Houston, hissingular and picturesque career, and the great esteem in which he washeld by the Texans. A man with a rifle on his shoulder stood by the dooras guard, but he recognized Smith and Karnes, and held the door open forthe four, who went inside without a word. 

Several men, talking earnestly were sitting in cane-bottomed chairs, andNed, although he had never seen him before, knew at once which wasHouston. The famous leader sat in the center of the little group. He wasover six feet high, very powerful of build, with thick, longish hair, and he was dressed carefully in a suit of fine dark blue cloth. He roseand saluted the four with great courtesy. Despite his long period ofwild life among the Indians his manners were distinguished. 

"We welcome you, Smith and Karnes, our faithful scouts, " he said, "andwe also welcome those with you who, I presume, are the two escaped fromthe City of Mexico. "

It was evident that the story of Ned and Obed had preceded them, butKarnes spoke for them. 

"Yes, General, " he said. "They are the men, or rather the man and theboy. These are Obed White and Ned Fulton, General Houston. "

Houston's glance ran swiftly over them. Evidently he liked both, as hesmiled and gave each a hearty hand. 

"And now for your story, " he said. 

Obed nodded toward Ned. 

"He's the one who saw it all, " he said, "and he's the one who brings thewarning. "

Ned was a little abashed by the presence of Houston and the otherimportant Texans, but he told the tale once more rapidly and succinctly. Every one listened closely. They were the chief members of the temporaryTexan government, but the room in which they met was all of thefrontier. Its floor was of rough boards. Its walls and ceilings wereunplastered. There was not a single luxury and not all of thenecessities. 

When Ned finished, Houston turned to the others and said quietly:

"Gentlemen, we all know that this is war. I think there need be nodiscussion of the point. It seems necessary to send out more messengersgathering up every Texan who will fight. Do you agree with me?"

All said yes. 

"I think, too, " said Houston, "that Santa Anna may now send Mr. Austinback to us. He does not know how well informed we are, and doubtless hewill believe that such an act will keep us in a state of blindness. "

"And you, my brave and resourceful young friend, what do you want todo?"

"Fight under you. "

Houston laughed and put his hand affectionately on the boy's shoulder. 

"I see that there is something of the courtier in you, too, " he said. "It is not a bad quality sometimes, and you shall have the chance thatyou ask, later on. But meanwhile, you and Mr. White would better resthere, a while. You may have some scouting and skirmishing to do first. We must feel our way. "

Ned and Obed now withdrew, and received the hospitality of the littletown which was great, at least so far as food was concerned. They longedfor action, but the rest was really necessary. Both body and spirit werepreparing for greater deeds. Meanwhile, Houston, the scouts and theTexan government went away, but Ned and Obed stayed, awaiting the call. They knew that the signals had now passed through all Texas and they didnot think that they would have to remain there long. 

They heard soon that Houston's prediction in regard to Austin had cometrue. Santa Anna had released him, and he had arrived in Texas. But hehad not been cajoled. His eyes had been opened at last to the designs ofthe dictator and immediately upon his return to Texas he had warned hiscountrymen in a great speech. Meanwhile, the army of Cos was approachingSan Antonio, preceded by the heralds of coming Texan ruin. 

Ned and Obed sat under the shade of some live oaks, when a horseman cameto the little village. He was a strange man, great in size, dressed inbuckskin, very brown of countenance and with long hair, tied as thewestern Indians would wear it. He was something of a genial boaster, was this man, and he was known up and down the Texas border as the RingTailed Panther although his right name was Martin Palmer. But he hadlived long among the Osage, Kiowa and Pawnee Indians, and he wasrenowned throughout all the Southwestern country for his bravery, skilland eccentricity. An Indian had killed a white man and eaten his heart. He captured the Indian and compelled him to eat until he died. When hisfavorite bear dog died he rode sixty miles and brought a minister topreach a sermon over his body. A little boy was captured on theoutskirts of a settlement by some Comanche Indians. He followed themalone for three hundred miles, stole the boy away from them in thenight, and carried him back safely to his father and mother. 

Such was the Ring Tailed Panther, a name that he had originally given tohimself and which the people had adopted, one who boasted that he fearedno man, the boast being true. He was heavily armed and he rode a blackand powerful horse, which he directed straight toward the place whereNed and Obed were sitting. 

"You are Ned Fulton an' Obed White, if report tells no lie?" he said ina deep growling voice. 

"We are, " said Ned, who did not know the identity of their formidablevisitor. 

"So I knew. I just wanted to see if you'd deny it. Glad to meet you, gentlemen. As for me, I'm the Ring Tailed Panther. "

"The Ring Tailed Panther?"

"Exactly. Didn't you hear me say so? I'm the Ring Tailed Panther, an' Ican whip anything livin', man or beast, lion or grizzly bear. That's whyI'm the Ring Tailed Panther. "

"Happy to know you, Mr. Ring Tailed Panther, " said Ned, "and having noquarrel with you we don't wish to fight you. "

The man laughed, his broad face radiating good humor. 

"And I don't want to fight you, either, " he said, "'cause all of us havegot to fight somebody else. See here, your name's Obed an' yours is Ned, and that's what I'm goin' to call you. No Mistering for me. It don'tlook well for a Ring Tailed Panther to be givin' handles to people'snames. "

"Ned and Obed it is, " said Ned with warmth. 

"Then, Ned an' Obed, it's Mexicans. I've been fightin' Indians a longtime. Besides bein' a Ring Tailed Panther, I'm three parts grizzly bearan' one part tiger, an' I want you both to come with guns. "

"Is it fighting?" asked Ned, starting up. 

"It's ridin' first an' then fightin'. Our people down at Gonzales have acannon. The Mexicans are comin' to take it away from them, an' I thinkthere's goin' to be trouble over the bargain. The Texans got the gun asa defense against the Indians an' they need it. Some of us are goin'down there to take a hand in the matter of that gun, an' you are goin'with us. "

"Of course we are!" said Ned and Obed together. In five minutes theywere riding, fully armed, with the Ring Tailed Panther over the prairie. He gave them more details as they rode along. 

"Some of our people had been gatherin' at San Felipe to stop the marchof Cos if they could, " he said, "but they've been drawn off now to helpGonzales. They're comin' from Bastrop, too, an' other places, an' ifthere ain't a fight then I'm the Ring Tailed Panther for nothing. If wekeep a good pace we can join a lot of the boys by nightfall. "

"We'll keep it, " said Ned. The boy's heart was pounding. Somehow he feltthat an event of great importance was at hand, and he was glad to have ashare in it. But the three spoke little. The Panther led the way. Nedsaw that despite his boasting words he was a man of action. Certainly hewas acting swiftly now, and it was quite evident that he knew what hewas doing. At last he turned to Ned and said:

"You're only a boy. You know what you're goin' into, of course?"

"A fight, I think. "

"And you may get killed?"

"I know it. One can't go into a fight without that risk. "

"You're a brave boy. I've heard of what you did, an' you don't talkmuch. I'm glad of that. I can do all the talkin' that's needed by thethree of us. The Lord created me with a love of gab. "

The man spoke in a whimsical tone and Ned laughed. 

"You can have all my share of the talking, Mr. Palmer, " he said. 

"The Ring Tailed Panther, " corrected the man. "I told you not to beMisterin' me. I like that name, the Ring Tailed Panther. It suits me, because I fit an' I fight till they get me down, then I curl my tail an'I take another round. Once in New Orleans I met a fellow who said he washalf horse, half alligator, that he could either claw to death the bestman living, stamp him to pieces or eat him alive. I invited him to doany one of these things or all three of them to me. "

"What happened?" asked Ned. 

A broad smile passed over the man's brown face. 

"After they picked up the pieces an' put him back together, " he said, "Itold him he might try again whenever he felt like it, but he said hischallenge was directed to human beings, not to Ring Tailed Panthers. Himan' me got to be great friends an' he's somewhere in Texas now. I mayrun acrost him before our business with the Mexicans is over, which Itake it is goin' to last a good while. "

It was now late in the afternoon, and dismounting at a clump of treesthe Panther lighted the end of a dead stick and waved the torch aroundhis head many times. 

"Watch there in the west for another light like this, " he said. 

Ned, who sat on his horse, was the first to see the faint circling lightfar down under the horizon. It was so distant that he could not haveseen it had he not been looking for it, but when he pointed it out thePanther ceased to whirl his own torch. 

"It's some friends, " he said, "an' they're answerin'. They're sayin'that they've seen us an' that they're waitin'. When they get throughwe'll say that we understan' an' are comin'. "

The whirling torch on the horizon stopped presently. The Panther whirledhis own for half a minute, then he sprang back upon his horse and thethree rode rapidly forward. 

The sight of the lights sparkling in the twilight so far across theprairie thrilled Ned. He felt that he was in very truth riding to afight as the Panther had said. Perhaps it was a part of the force of Costhat was coming to Gonzales. Cos himself had turned from the land routewith a part of his force and, coming by sea, had landed at Copano abouttwo weeks before. Ned, having full cause, hated this brutal man, and hehoped that the Texans would come to grips with him. 

The night was at hand when they reached four men sitting on horsebackand waiting for them. They greeted the Ring Tailed Panther with fewwords but with warmth. They gave to Ned and Obed, too, the stronghandclasp which men in danger give to friends who come. Ned thrilledonce more with pride that he should be associated with heroes in greatdeeds. Such they undoubtedly were to him. 

"The Mexicans will be at Gonzales to-morrow, " said one of the men. "Theplace, as you know, has refused to give up its cannon and has defiedthem, but it's almost bare of men. I don't think they have a dozenthere. "

"The battle is generally to the strong if they get there in time, " saidObed, "and here are seven of us on good horses. "

"Not countin' the fact that one of us is a Ring Tailed Panther withclaws a foot long an' two sets of teeth in his mouth, " said Palmer. "Ride on, boys, an' ride hard. "

They urged their horses into a gallop and sped over the prairie. Atmidnight they clattered into the tiny village of Gonzales on theGuadalupe River, where everybody except the little children was awakeand watching. Lights flared from the cabins, and the alarm at first, lest they were Mexicans, changed to joy when they were disclosed asTexans. 

But the armed force of the place, though stout of heart, was pitifullysmall. They found only eleven men in Gonzales capable of bearing arms, and no more help could be expected before the Mexicans came the nextday. But eleven and seven make eighteen, and now that they were joined, and communicating spirit and hope to one another, the eighteen were morethan twice as strong as the eleven had been. The Ring Tailed Pantherpoured forth a stream of cheer and encouragement. He grew more volubleat the approach of danger. Never had his teeth and claws been longer orsharper. 

"I'm afraid of nothin' except that they won't come, " he said. "If theydon't, my health will give way. I'll be a-droopin' an' a-pinin' an' I'llhave to go off an' fight the Comanches an' Lipans to get back mystrength. "

But he was assured that his health would not suffer. Mexican cavalry, ahundred strong, were coming under a captain, Castenada, sent byUgartchea, the Mexican commander at San Antonio de Bexar. Scouts hadbrought that definite news. They were riding from the west and theywould have to cross the Guadalupe before they could enter Gonzales. There were fords, but it would be a dangerous task to attempt theirpassage in face of the Texan rifles. 

The ferryboat was tied safely on the Gonzales side, and then theeighteen, every one a fine marksman, distributed themselves at thefords. Ned, Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther stayed together. They didnot anticipate the arrival of the Mexican forces before dawn, butCastenada might send spies ahead, and the Mexican scouts were full ofwiles and stratagems. 

"At any rate, " said the Panther, "if we catch any Mexican prowlingaround here we'll throw him into the river. "

"All things, including Mexicans, come to him who waits, " said Obed, "andspeaking for myself I'd rather they wouldn't come until day. It's morecomfortable to sit quiet in the dark. "

These three and six others had taken a position under a great oak tree, where they were well shaded but could easily see anyone who approachedthe ford on the opposite side. Back of them a few lights burned in thelittle town, where the anxious women watched, but no noise came from itor the second ford, where the other half of the eighteen were on guard. Their horses were tethered some distance in the rear and they, too, rested in quiet. 

The tree sent up a great gnarled root and Ned sat on the ground, leaningagainst it. It just fitted into the curve of his back and he was verycomfortable. But he did not allow his comfort to lull him into lethargy. Always he watched the river and the farther shore. He had now become nomean scout and sentinel. The faculties develop fast amid the continuousfight for life against all kinds of dangers. Above all, that additionalsense which may be defined as prescience, and, which was a developmentof the other five, was alive within him, ready to warn him of a hostilepresence. 

But Ned neither saw nor heard anything, nor did his sixth sense warn himthat an enemy was near. The Guadalupe, wide, yellow and comparativelyshallow like most of the Texas rivers, flowed slowly and without sound. Now and then Obed and the Panther walked down to the other ford, whereall, too, was quiet, but Ned kept his place against the root. Towardmorning the Panther sat down beside him there. 

"Waitin's hard, " he said. "I like to jump on the enemy with claws an'nails an' have it out right there an' then. I like to roar an' bite. That's why I'm a Ring Tailed Panther. "

Ned laughed. 

"If Castenada is coming, and they say he surely is, " he said, "we'llsoon have use for all our claws and teeth. "

"Patience will bring our Mexicans, " said Obed White. 

At daylight women from the cabins brought them all coffee and warm food, for which they were very grateful. Then the sun rose, and the morningwas fresh and crisp, it now being autumn. The men remained by theriver, still watching intently and Ned caught a sudden sharp glint whichwas not that of the sun, far out on the prairie. He knew that it was abrilliant ray reflected from the polished head of a lance, and he saidas he pointed a finger:

"The Mexicans are coming. "

"So they are, " said the Ring Tailed Panther. "I see a horseman, an'another, an' another, an' now a lot of 'em. They must be a hundred atleast. It's the troop of Castenada, an' they're after that cannon. Well, I'm glad. "

The man seemed to swell and his eyes darkened. He was like someformidable beast about to spring. The boaster was ready to make good hisboast. 

"Run down to the other ford, Ned, " said Palmer, "an' tell the men therethat the Mexicans are at hand. "

Ned did his errand, but returned very quickly. He was anxious to see theadvance of Castenada's troop. The Mexicans, about half of whom werelancers and the rest armed with muskets, came on very steadily. Anofficer in fine uniform, whom Ned took to be Castenada himself, rode attheir head. When they came within rifle shot a white flag was hoisted ona lance. 

"A white flag! This is no time for white flags, " growled the Ring TailedPanther. "Never have any faith in a Mexican comin' under a white flag. What we've got to do now is to roar an' rip an' claw. "

"Still, " said Obed, "it's evil to him who evil does, and we've got towait till these Mexicans do it. First we've got to hear what they say, and if the saying isn't to our liking, as I'm thinking it won't be, thenit's ripping and roaring and clawing and all the other 'ings' to ourtaste as long as we can stand it. "

"Go ahead, " growled the Ring Tailed Panther, "I'm not much on talkin'. Fightin's more in my line an' when it's that I come with a hop, a skipan' a jump, teeth an' claws all ready. "

"Ned, " said Obed, "you speak the best Spanish, so go down there to thebank of the river, and hear what they have to say. Just remember thatwe're not giving up the cannon, and clothe the answers in what finewords you please. There isn't any rock here, but sooner this rock shallfly from its firm base than the Texans will yield their cannon when theyare sure to be attacked by Indians and maybe Mexicans too. "

Ned walked down to the edge of the river and the officer, whom herightly supposed to be Castenada, dismounting, came to the shore at anopposite point. 

"What do you want?" cried Ned in pure Spanish across the water. 

"Are you empowered to speak for the people of Gonzales?"

"You hear me speaking and you see the other Texans listening. "

"Then I have to say that on the order of General Cos I demand yourcannon in the name of General Santa Anna and Mexico. "

"We've made up our minds to keep it. We're sure to need it later on. "

"This is insolent. If you do not give it we shall come and take it. "

"Tell him, Ned, " growled the Ring Tailed Panther, "that we just hopehe'll come an' try to take it, that I'm here roarin' all the time, thatI've filed my teeth an' nails 'till they're like the edge of a razor, an' that I'm just hungerin' to rip an' claw. "

"The men of Gonzales mean to defend their cannon and themselves, "called Ned across the river. "If you come to take the gun it means war. It means more, too. It means that you will lose many of your soldiers. The Texans, as you know, are both able and willing to shoot. "

"This is rebellion and treason!" cried Castenada. "The great Santa Annawill come with a mighty force, and when he is through not a Texan willtrouble the surface of the earth. "

A roar of approval came from the men behind the Mexican captain, but Nedreplied:

"Until the earth is rid of us we may make certain spots of it dangerousfor you. So, I warn you to draw back. Our bullets carry easily acrossthis river. "

Captain Castenada, white with rage, retired with his troop beyond therange of the Texan rifles. 

CHAPTER XV

THE FIRST GUN

"Well, Ned, it's sometimes ask and ye shall not receive, isn't it?" saidObed White, looking at the retreating Mexicans. 

But the Ring Tailed Panther growled between his shut teeth. Then heopened his mouth and gave utterance to his dissatisfaction. 

"It's a cheat, a low Mexican trick, " he said, "to come here an' promisea fight an' then go away. I'm willin' to bet my claws that them Mexicanswill hang around here two or three days, without tryin' to do a thing. "

"An' won't that be all the better for us?" asked Ned. "We're onlyeighteen and we surely need time for more. "

"That's so, " admitted the Ring Tailed Panther, "but when you've got allyour teeth and claws sharpened for a fight you want it right then an'not next week. "

The Mexicans tethered their horses and began to form camp about a halfmile from the river. They went about it deliberately, spreading tentsfor their officers and lighting fires for cooking. The Texans could seethem plainly and the Mexicans showed the carelessness and love ofpleasure natural to children of the sun. Some lay down on the grass andthree or four began to strum mandolins and guitars. 

There was a sterner manner on the Texan side of the Guadalupe. The watchat the fords was not relaxed, but Ned went back into the little town tocarry the word to the women and children. Most of the women, like themen, were dressed in deerskin and they, too, volunteered to fight ifthey were needed. Ned told them what Castenada had asked, and he alsotold them the reply which was received with grim satisfaction. The womenwere even more bitter than the men against the Mexicans. 

Ned passed a long day by the Guadalupe, keeping his place most of thetime at the ford with the Ring Tailed Panther, who was far less patientthan he. 

"My teeth an' claws will shorely get dull with me a-settin' here an'doin' nothin', " said Palmer. "I can roar an' I can keep on roarin' butwhat's the good of roarin' when you can't do any bitin' an' tearin'?"

"Patience will have its perfect fight, " said Obed, giving one of hismisquotations. "I've always heard that every kind of panther would lievery quiet until the chance came for him to spring. "

The Ring Tailed Panther growled between his shut teeth. 

The sight of the Mexican force in the afternoon became absolutelytantalizing. Although it was early autumn the days were still very hotat times and Castenada's men were certainly taking their ease. Ned couldsee many of them enjoying the siesta, and through a pair of glasses hesaw others lolling luxuriously and smoking cigarettes. It was especiallyirritating to the Ring Tailed Panther, who grew very red in the face butwho now only emitted growls between his shut teeth. 

It was evident that the Mexicans were going to make no demonstrationjust yet and the night came, rather dark and cloudy. Now the anxiety inGonzales increased since the night can be cover for anything, and, besides guarding the fords, several of the defenders were placed atintermediate points. 

Ned took a station with Obed in a clump of oaks that grew to the veryedge of the Guadalupe. There they sat a long time and watched thesurface of the river grow darker and darker. The Mexican camp had beenshut from sight long since, and no sounds now came from it. Nedappreciated fully the need of a close watch. The Mexicans might swim theriver on their horses in the darkness, and gallop down on the town. Sohe never ceased to watch, and he also listened with ears which wererapidly acquiring the delicacy and sensitiveness peculiar to those ofexpert frontiersmen. 

Ned was not warlike in temper. He knew, from his reading, all the wasteand terrible passions of war, but he was heart and soul with the Texans. He was one of them, and to him the coming struggle was a fight for homeand liberty by an oppressed people. With the ardor of youth flaming inhim he was willing for that struggle to begin at once. 

Night on the Guadalupe! He felt that the darkness was full of omens andpresages for Texas and for him, too, a boy among its defenders. Hispulses quivered, and a light moisture broke out on his face. Hisprescience, the gift of foresight, was at work. It was telling him thatthe time, in very truth, had come. Yet he could not see or hear a singlething that bore the remotest resemblance to an enemy. 

The boy stepped from a clump of trees in order that he might get abetter look down the river. There was a crack on the farther shore, aflash of fire, and a bullet sang past his ear. He caught a hasty glimpseof a Mexican with a smoking rifle leaping to cover, and he, too, sprangback into the shelter of the trees. 

It was the first shot of the great Texan struggle for independence!

Ned felt all of its significance even then, and so did Obed. 

"You saw him?" asked the Maine man. 

"I did, and I felt the breath of his bullet on my face, but he gainedcover too quick for me to return his fire. "

"The first shot was theirs and it was at you. It seems odd, Ned, thatyou should have been used as a target for the opening of the war. "

"I'm proud of the honor. "

"So would I be in your place. "

Others came, drawn by the shot. 

"Was it a Mexican?" asked the Ring Tailed Panther eagerly. "Tell me itwas a Mexican and make me happy. "

"You can be happy, " said Obed. "It was a Mexican and he was shootingwith what the law would define as an intent to kill. He sent a riflebullet across the Guadalupe, aimed at our young friend, Edward Fulton. Ned did not see the bullet, but his sensitiveness to touch showed thatit passed within an inch of his face. "

Now the Ring Tailed Panther roared, but it was not between his shutteeth. 

"By the great horn spoon, I'm glad!" he said, "All the waitin' an'backin' an' fillin' are over. We do our talkin' now with cannon an'rifles. "

But not another shot was fired that night. It was merely some scout orskirmisher who had sent the fugitive bullet across the river, but it wasenough. The Mexican intentions were now evident. 

Ned went off duty toward morning and slept a few hours in one of thecabins. When he awoke he ate a hearty breakfast and went back to theriver. About half of the eighteen had taken naps, but they were allgathered once more along the Guadalupe. Ned observed the Mexican campand saw some movement there. Presently all the soldiers rode out, withCastenada at their head. 

"They're comin' to our ford! By the great horn spoon, they are comin'!"roared the Ring Tailed Panther. 

It seemed that he was right as the Mexicans were approaching at agallop, making a gallant show, their lances glittering in the sun. 

"Lay down, all!" said the Ring Tailed Panther. "The moment they strikethe water turn loose with your rifles an' roar an' scratch an' claw!"

But when they were within one hundred yards of the Guadalupe theMexicans suddenly sheered off. Evidently they did not like the looks ofthe Texan rifles which they could plainly see. The defenders of thefords uttered a derisive shout, and some of the Mexicans fired. Buttheir bullets fell short, only a single one of them coming as far as theedge of the Guadalupe. The Texans did not reply. They would not wasteammunition in any such foolish fashion. 

The Mexicans stopped, when four or five hundred yards away, and began towave their lances and utter taunting shouts. The Texans only laughed, all except the Ring Tailed Panther, who growled. 

"You see, Ned, " said Obed, "that one charge does not make a passage. Itappears to me that our friend Castenada does not want his uniform orhimself spoiled by our good Texas lead. Now, I take it, we can rest easyawhile longer. "

He lay down in the grass under the trees and Ned did likewise, but theRing Tailed Panther would not be consoled. An opportunity had been lost, and he hurled strange and miscellaneous epithets at the distantMexicans. Standing upon a little hillock he called them more bad namesthan Ned had ever before heard. He aspersed the character of theirancestors even to the eighth generation and of their possibledescendants also to the eighth generation. He issued every kind ofchallenge to any kind of combat, and at last, red and panting, descendedthe hillock. 

"Do you feel better?" asked Obed. 

"I've whispered a few of my thoughts. Yes, I can re'lly say that thestate of my health is improvin'. "

"Then sit down and rest. It's never too late to try, try again. Rememberthat the day is long and the Mexicans may certainly have a chance. "

The Ring Tailed Panther growled, but sat down. 

In the afternoon the Mexicans again formed in line and trotted downtoward the other ford, but as before they did not like the look of theTexan rifles and turned away, after shouting many challenges, brandishing lances and firing random shots. But the Texans contentedthemselves again with a grim silence, and the Mexicans rode back totheir camp. The disgust of the Ring Tailed Panther was so deep that hecould not utter a word. But Obed was glad. 

"More men will come to-night, " he said to Ned. "You know that requestsfor help were sent in all directions by the people of Gonzales, and if Iknow our Texans, and I think I do, they'll ride hard to be here. Castenada, in a way, is besieging us now, but--well, the tables may beturned and he'll turn with 'em. "

Just at twilight a great shout arose from the women in the village. There was a snorting of horses, a jingling of spurs and embroideredbridle reins, and twenty lean, brown men, very tall and broad ofshoulder, rode up. They were the vanguard of the Texan help, and theyrejoiced when they found that the Mexican force was still on the westside of the Guadalupe. 

Their welcome was not noisy but deep. The eighteen were now thethirty-eight, and to-morrow they would be a hundred or more. The twentyhad ridden more than a hundred miles, but they were fresh and zealousfor the combat. They went down to the river, and, in the darkness, looked at the Mexican camp fires, while the Ring Tailed Panther roaredout his opinion. 

"The Mexicans won't bring the fight to us, " he said, "so we must carryit to them. They've galloped down here twice an' they've looked at theriver an' they've looked at us, an' they've galloped back again. Wecan't let 'em set over there besiegin' us, we must cross an' besiegethem an' get to roarin' an' rippin' an' clawin'. "

"To-morrow, " said Obed, "more of our friends will be here and when weall get together we will discuss it and make a decision. "

"Of course we'll discuss it!" roared the Ring Tailed Panther, "an' thenwe'll come to a decision, an' there's only one decision that we can cometo. We'll cross the river an' mighty quick we'll make them Mexicans wishthey'd chose a camp a hundred miles from Gonzales. "

The others laughed, but after all, the Ring Tailed Panther had statedtheir position truly. Every man agreed with him. The watch at the riverthat night was as vigilant as ever, and the next morning parties ofTexans arrived from different points, swelling their numbers to morethan one hundred and fifty men, fully equaling the company of Castenada, after allowing for reinforcements received by the Mexican captain. 

With one of the Texan troops came a quiet man of confident bearing, dressed like the others in buckskin, but with more authority in hismanner. The Ring Tailed Panther greeted him with great warmth, shakinghis hand and saying:

"John! John! We're awful glad you've come 'cause there's to be a lot ofroarin' an' tearin' an' clawin' to be done. "

The man smiled and replied in his quiet tones:

"We know it and that's why we've come. Now, I suggest that while weleave ten men at each ford, we hold a meeting in the village. Everythingwe have is at stake and as one Texan is as good as another we ought totalk it over. "

"Who is he?" asked Ned of Obed. 

"That's John Moore. He's been a great Indian fighter and one of thedefenders of the frontier. I think it likely that he'll be our leader inwhatever we undertake. He's certainly the man for the place. "

"Oyez! Oyez!" roared the Ring Tailed Panther with mouth wide open. "Comeall ye upon the common, an' hear the case of Texas against Mexico whichis now about to be debated. The gentlemen representin' the other sideare on the west shore of the river about a mile from here, an' afterdecidin' upon our argyment an' the manner of it we'll communicate it to'em later whether they like our decision or not. "

They poured upon the common in a tumultuous throng, the women andchildren forming a continuous fringe about them. 

"I move that John Moore be made the Chairman of this here meetin' an'the leader in whatever it decides to do, 'specially as we know alreadywhat it's goin' to decide, " roared the Ring Tailed Panther, "an'wherever he leads we will follow. "

Ned said nothing, but his pulses were leaping. Perhaps the silent boyappreciated more than any other present that this was the beginning ofa great epic in the American story. The young student, his head filledwith completed dramas of the past, could look further into the futurethan the veteran men of action around him. 

The debate was short. In truth it was no debate at all, because all wereof one mind. Since the Mexicans had already fired upon them and wouldnot go away they would cross the river and attack Castenada. As Obed hadpredicted, Moore was unanimously chosen leader, the title of Colonelbeing bestowed upon him, and they set to work at once for the attack. 

Ned and Obed walked together to the cluster of oaks in which the two hadspent so much time. Both were grave, appreciating fully the fact thatthey were about to go into battle. 

"Ned, " said Obed, "you and I have been through a lot of dangers togetherand we're not afraid to talk about dangers to come. In case anythingshould happen to you is there any word you want sent anybody?"

"To nobody except Mr. Austin. He's been very good to me here and inMexico. I suppose I've got some relatives in Missouri, but they are sodistant I've forgotten who they are, and probably they never knewanything about me. If it's the other way about, Obed, what word shall Isend?"

"Nothing to nobody. I had a stepfather in Maine, who didn't like me, andmy mother died five years after her second marriage. I'm a Texan, Ned, same as if I were born on this soil, and my best friends are around me. I'll live and die with 'em. "

The two, the man and the boy, shook hands, but made no further displayof feeling. The force was organized in the village, beyond the sight ofthe Mexicans, who were lounging in the grass, although they had postedsentinels. Every Texan was well armed, carrying a rifle, pistol andknife. Some had in addition the Indian tomahawk. 

It was the first day of October and the coolness of late afternoon hadcome. A fresh breeze was blowing from the southwest. The little command, silent save for the hoof beats of their horses, rode down to the river. The women and children looked after them and they, too, were silent. Astrange Indian stoicism possessed them all. 

Ned and Obed were side by side. The breeze cooled the forehead andcheeks of the boy, but his pulses beat hard and fast. He looked back atGonzales and he knew that he would never forget that little village oflittle log cabins. Then he looked straight before him at the yellowriver, and the shore beyond, where the Mexican camp lay. 

It was now seven o'clock and the twilight was coming. 

"Isn't it late to make an attack?" he said to Obed. 

"It depends on what happens. Circumstances alter battles. If we surprisethem there'll be time for a fine fight. If they discover our advance itmay be better to wait until morning. "

They rode into the water twenty abreast, and made for the farther shore. So many horses made much splashing, and Ned expected bullets, but nonecame. Dripping, they reached the farther shore and went straight towardthe Mexican camp. Then came sudden shouts, the flash of rifles and thesinging of bullets. The Mexican sentinels had discovered the Texanadvance. 

Moore ordered his men to halt, and then he held a short conference withthe leaders. It was very late, and they would postpone the attack untilmorning. Hence, they tethered their horses in sight of the Mexican camp, set many sentinels and deliberately began to cook their suppers. 

It was all very strange and unreal to Ned. Having started for a battleit was battle he wanted at once and the wait of a night rested heavilyupon his nerves. 

"Take it easy, Ned, " said Obed, who observed him. "Willful haste makeswoeful fight. Eat your supper and then you'd better lie down and sleepif you can. I'd rather go on watch toward morning if I were you, becauseif anything happens in the night it will happen late. "

Ned considered it good advice and he lay down in his blankets, havingbeen notified that he would be called at one o'clock in the morning totake his turn. Once more he exerted will to the utmost in the effort tocontrol nerves and body. He told himself that he was now surrounded byfriends, who would watch while he slept, and that he could not besurprised. Slumber came sooner than he had hoped, but at the appointedhour he was awakened and took his place among the sentinels. 

Ned found the night cold and dark, but he shook off the chill byvigorous walking to and fro. He discovered, however, that he could notsee any better by use, as the darkness was caused by mists rather thanclouds. Vapors were rising from the prairie, and objects, seen throughthem, assumed thin and distorted shapes. He saw west of him andimmediately facing him flickering lights which he knew were those of theMexican camp. The heavy air seemed to act as a conductor of sound, andhe heard faintly voices and the tread of horses' hoofs. They were onwatch there, also. 

He walked back and forth a long time, and the air continued to thicken. A heavy fog was rising from the prairie, and it became so dense that hecould no longer see the fires in the Mexican camp. Everything there wasshut out from the eye, but he yet heard the faint noises. 

It seemed to him toward four o'clock in the morning that the noises wereincreasing, and curiosity took hold of him. But the sentinel on the leftand the sentinel on the right were now hidden by the fog, and, since hecould not confer with them at once, he resolved to see what thisincrease of noise meant. 

He cocked his rifle and stole forward over the prairie. He could not seemore than ten or fifteen yards ahead, but he went very near to theMexican camp, and then lay down in the grass. Now he saw the cause ofthe swelling sounds. The Mexican force, gathering up its arms andhorses, was retreating. 

Ned stole back to the camp with his news. 

"You have done well, Ned, lad, " said Moore. "I think it likely, however, that they are merely withdrawing to a stronger position, but they can'tescape us. We'll follow 'em, and since they wanted that cannon so badlywe'll give 'em a taste of it. "

The cannon, a six-pounder, had been brought over on the ferryboat in thenight and was now in the Texan camp. 

"Ned, " said Moore, "do you, Obed and the Panther ride after thosefellows and see what they do. Then come back and report. "

It was a dangerous duty, but the three responded gladly. They advancedcautiously through the fog and the Ring Tailed Panther roared softly. 

"Runnin' away?" he said. "I'd be ashamed to come for a cannon an' thento slink off with tail droopin' like a cowardly coyote. By the greathorn spoon, I hope they are merely seekin' a better position an' willgive us a fight. It would be a mean Mexican trick to run clean away. "

"The Mexicans are not cowards, " said Ned. 

"Depends on how the notion strikes 'em, " said the Panther. "Sometimesthey fight like all creation an' sometimes they hit it for the highgrass an' the tall timber. There's never any tellin' what they'll do. "

"Hark!" said Obed, "don't you hear their tramp there to our left?"

The three stopped and listened, and they detected sounds which they knewwere made by the retreating force. But they could see nothing throughthe heavy white fog which covered everything like a blanket of snow. 

"Suppose we ride parallel with them, " whispered Ned. "We can go by thesounds and by the same means we can tell exactly what they do. "

"A good idea, " said Obed. "We are going over prairie which affords easyriding. We've got nothing to fear unless some lamb strays from theMexican flock, and blunders upon us. Even then he's more likely to beshorn than to shear. "

They advanced for some time, guided by the hoofbeats from the Mexicancolumn. But before the sun could rise and dispel the fog the sound ofthe hoofbeats ceased. 

"They've stopped, " whispered the Ring Tailed Panther, joyously. "Afterall they're not goin' to run away an' they will give us a fight. Theyare expectin' reinforcements of course, or they wouldn't make a stand. "

"But we must see what kind of a position they have taken up, " said Obed. "Seeing is telling and you know that when we get back to Colonel Moorewe've got to tell everything, or we might as well have stayed behind. "

"You're the real article, all wool an' a yard wide, Obed White, " saidthe Ring Tailed Panther. "Now I think we'd better hitch our horses hereto these bushes an' creep as close as we can without gettin' our headsknocked off. They might hear the horses when they wouldn't hear us. "

"Good idea, " said Obed White. "Nothing risk, nothing see. "

They tethered the horses to the low bushes, marking well the place, asthe heavy, white fog was exceedingly deceptive, distorting andexaggerating when it did not hide. Then the three went forward, side byside. Ned looked back when he had gone a half dozen yards, and alreadythe horses were looming pale and gigantic in the fog. Three or foursteps more and they were gone entirely. 

But they heard the sounds again in front of them, although they were nowof a different character. They were confined in one place, which showedthat the Mexicans had not resumed their march, and the tread of horses'hoofs was replaced by a metallic rattle. It occurred to Ned that theMexicans might be intrenching and he wondered what place of strengththey had found. 

The boy had the keenest eyes of the three and presently he saw a dark, lofty shape, showing faintly through the fog. It looked to him like aniceberg clothed in mist, and he called the attention of his comrades toit. They went a little nearer, and the Ring Tailed Panther laughed lowbetween his shut teeth. 

"We'll have our fight, " he said, "an' these Mexicans won't go back toCos as fine as they were when they started. The tall an' broad thingthat you see is a big mound on the prairie an' they're goin' to make astand on it. It ain't a bad place. A hundred Texans up there could beatoff a thousand Mexicans. "

They went a little nearer and saw that a fringe of bushes surrounded thebase of the mound. Further up the Mexicans were digging in the softearth with their lances as best they could and throwing up a breastwork. The horses had been tethered in the bushes. Evidently they felt surethat they would be attacked by the Texans. They knew the nature of theseriders of the plains. 

"I think we've seen enough, " said Obed. "We'll go back now to ColonelMoore and the men. "

They found their horses undisturbed and were about to gallop back to themain body with the news that the Mexicans were on the mound, when someMexican sentinels saw them and uttered a shout. The three exchangedshots with them but knowing that a strong force would be upon them in aninstant returned to their original intention and went at full speedtoward the camp. It was lucky that the fog still held, as the pursuingbullets went wide, but Ned heard more than one sing. The Mexicans showedcourage and followed the three until they reached the Texan camp. As Nedand his comrades dismounted they shouted that the Mexicans were on ahill not far away and were fortifying. 

Moore promptly had his men run forward that bone of contention, thecannon, and a solid shot was sent humming toward those who had pursuedthe three. The heavy report came back in sullen echoes from the prairie, and the stream of fire split the fog asunder. But in a moment the mistsand vapors closed in again, and the Mexicans were gone. Then the littlearmy stood for a few moments, motionless, but breathing heavily. Thecannon shot had made the hearts of everyone leap. They were inured toIndian battle and every kind of danger, but this was a great war. 

"Boys, " said Moore, "we are here and the enemy is before us. "

A deep shout from broad chests and powerful lungs came forth. Then by asingle impulse the little army rushed forward, led by Ned, Obed and theRing Tailed Panther, who took them straight toward the mound. As theyran, the great Texan sun proved triumphant. It seemed to cleave the foglike a sword blade, and then the mists and vapors rolled away on eitherside, to right and to left of the Texans. The whole plain, dewy andfresh, sprang up in the light of the morning. 

They saw the steep mound crowned by the Mexicans, and men still at workon the hasty trench. Again that full-throated cheer came from the Texansand they quickened their pace, but Captain Castenada came down from themound and a soldier came with him bearing a white flag. 

"Now, what in thunder can he want?" growled the Ring Tailed Panther toNed and Obed. "Shorely he ain't goin' to surrender. He's jest goin' towaste our time in talk. "

Deep disgust showed on his face. 

"By waiting we will see, " quoth Obed oracularly. "Now, Panther, don'tyou be too impatient. Remember that the tortoise beat the hare in thegreat Greek horse race. "

Moore waved his hand and the Texans halted. Castenada on foot came on. Moore also dismounted, and, calling to Ned and Obed to accompany him, went forward to meet him. Ned and Obed, delighted, sprang from theirhorses, and walked by his side. The Ring Tailed Panther growled betweenhis teeth that he was glad to stay, that he would have no truck withMexicans. 

Castenada, with the soldier beside him, came forward. He was rather ahandsome young man of the dark type. As the two little parties met midwaybetween the lines, the forces on the hill and on the plain were alikesilent. Every trace of the fog was now gone, and the sun shone with fullsplendor upon brown faces, upon rifles and lances. 

Castenada saluted in Mexican fashion. 

"What do you want?" he asked in Spanish, which all understood. 

"Your surrender, " replied Moore coolly, "either that or the swornadherence of you and your men to Texas. "

Castenada uttered an angry exclamation. 

"This is presumption carried to the last degree, " he said. "My own honorand the honor of Mexico will not allow me to do either. "

"It is that or fight. "

"I bid you beware. General Cos is coming with a force that all Texascannot resist, and after him comes our great Santa Anna with another yetgreater. If the Texans make war they will be destroyed. The buffalo willfeed where their houses now stand. "

"You have already made war. Accept our terms or fight. We deal with younow. We deal with Cos and Santa Anna later on. "

"There is nothing more to be said, " replied Castenada with haughtiness. "We are here in a strong position and you cannot take us. "

He withdrew and Moore turned back with Ned and Obed. 

"I don't think he ever meant this parley for anything except to gaintime, " said Moore. "He's expecting a fresh Mexican force, but we'll seethat it comes too late. "

Then raising his voice, he shouted to his command:

"Boys, they've chosen to fight, and they are there on the hill. A mancannot rush that hill with his horse, but he can rush it with his twolegs. "

The face of the Ring Tailed Panther became a perfect full moon ofdelight. Then he paled a little. 

"Do you think there can yet be any new trick to hold us back?" he askedObed anxiously. 

"No, " replied Obed cheerfully. "Time and tide wait for no Mexicans, andthe tide's at the flood. We charge within a minute. "

Even as he spoke, Moore shouted:

"Now, boys, rush 'em!"

For the third time the Texans uttered that deep, rolling cheer. Thecannon sent a volley of grape shot into the cluster on the mound andthen the Texans rushed forward at full speed, straight at the enemy. 

The Mexicans opened a rapid fire with rifles and muskets and the wholemound was soon clothed in smoke. But the rush of the Texans was so greatthat in an instant they were at the first slope. They stopped to send ina volley and then began the rush up the hill, but there was no enemy. 

The Mexicans gave way in a panic at the very first onset, ran down theslope to their horses, leaped upon them and galloped away over theprairie. Many threw away their rifles and lances, and, bending low onthe necks of their horses, urged them to greater speed. 

Ned had been in the very front of the rush, Obed on one side and theRing Tailed Panther on the other. His heart was beating hard and therewas a fiery mist before his eyes. He heard the bullets whiz past, butonce more Providence was good to him. None touched him, and when thefirst tremors were over he was as eager as any of them to reach thecrest of the mound, and come to grips with the enemy. Suddenly he hearda tremendous roar of disgust. The Ring Tailed Panther was the author ofit. 

"Escaped after all!" he cried. "They wouldn't stay an' fight, when theypromised they would!"

"At least, the Mexicans ride well, " said Obed. 

Ned gazed from the crest of the mound at the flying men, rapidlybecoming smaller and smaller as they sped over the prairie. 

CHAPTER XVI

THE COMING OF URREA

Many of the Texans were hot for pursuit, but Moore recalled them. Hisreasons were brief and grim. "You will not overtake them, " he said, "andyou will need all your energies later on. This is only the beginning. "

A number of the Mexicans had been slain, but none of the Texans hadfallen, the aim of their opponents being so wild. The triumph hadcertainly been an easy one, but Ned perhaps rejoiced less than any otherone present. The full mind again projected itself into the future, andforesaw great and terrible days. The Texans were but few, scatteredthinly over a long frontier, and the rage of Cos and Santa Anna would beunbounded, when they heard of the fight and flight of their troops atGonzales. 

"Obed, " he said to his friend, "we are victorious to-day without loss, but I feel that dark days are coming. "

The Maine man looked curiously at the boy. He already considered Ned, despite his youth, superior in some ways to himself. 

"You've been a reader and you're a thinker, Ned, " he said, "and I liketo hear what you say. The dark days may come as you predict, becauseSanta Anna is a great man in the Mexican way, but night can't come untilthe day is ended and it's day just now. We won't be gloomy yet. "

After the fallen Mexicans had been buried, the little force of voluntarysoldiers began to disperse, just as they had gathered, of their ownaccord. The work there was done, and they were riding for their ownlittle villages or lone cabins, where they would find more work to do. The Mexicans would soon fall on Texas like a cloud, and every one ofthem knew it. 

Ned, Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther rode back to Gonzales, where thewomen and children welcomed the victors with joyous acclaim. 

The three sat down with others to a great feast, spread on tables underthe shade of oaks, and consisting chiefly of game, buffalo, deer, squirrels, rabbits and other animals which had helped the early Texansto live. But throughout the dinner Ned and Obed were rather quiet, although the Ring Tailed Panther roared to his heart's content. It wasNed who spoke first the thought that was in the minds of both Obed andhimself. Slowly and by an unconscious process he was becoming theleader. 

"Obed, " he said, "everybody can do as he pleases, and I propose that youand I and the Ring Tailed Panther scout toward San Antonio. Cos and hisarmy are marching toward that town, and while the Texan campaign ofdefense is being arranged and the leaders are being chosen we might givea lot of help. "

"Just what I was thinking, " said Obed. 

"Jest what I ought to have thought, " said the Ring Tailed Panther. 

San Antonio was a long journey to the westward, and they started attwilight fully equipped. They carried their usual arms, two blanketsapiece, light but warm, food for several days, and double supplies ofammunition, the thing that they would now need most. Gonzales gave thema farewell full of good wishes. Some of the women exclaimed upon Ned'syouth, but Obed explained that the boy had lived through hardships anddangers that would have overcome many a veteran pioneer of Texas. 

They forded the Guadalupe for the second time on the same day. Then theyrode by the mound on which the Mexicans had made their brief stand. Thethree said little. Even the Ring Tailed Panther had thoughts that werenot voiced. The hill, the site of the first battle in their greatstruggle, stood out, clear and sharp, in the moonlight. But it was verystill now. 

"We'll date a good many things from that hill, " said Ned as they rodeon. 

They followed in the path of the flying Mexicans who, they were quitesure, would make for Cos and San Antonio. The Ring Tailed Panther knewthe most direct course and as the moon was good they could also see thetrail left by the Mexicans. It was marked further by grim objects, twowounded horses that had died in the flight, and then by a mansuccumbing, who had been buried in a grave so shallow that no one couldhelp noticing it. 

A little after midnight they saw a light ahead, and they judged by themotions that a man was waving a torch. 

"It can't be a trap, " said Obed, "because the Mexicans would not stoprunning until they were long past here. "

"An' there ain't no cover where that torch is, " added the Ring TailedPanther. 

"Then suppose we ride forward and see what it means, " said Ned. 

They cocked their rifles, ready for combat if need be, and rode forwardslowly. Soon they made out the figure of a man standing on a swell ofthe prairie, and vigorously waving a torch made of a dead stick lightedat one end. He had a rifle, but it leaned against a bush beside him. His belt held a pistol and knife, but his free hand made no movementtoward them, as the three rode up. The man himself was young, slender, and of olive complexion with black hair and eyes. He was a Mexican, buthe was dressed in the simple Texan style. Moreover, there were Mexicansborn in Texas some of whom, belonging to the Liberal party, inclined tothe Texan side. This man was distinctly handsome and the look with whichhe returned the gaze of the three was frank, free and open. 

"I saw you from afar, " he said in excellent English. "I climbed thecottonwood there in order to see what might be passing on the prairie, and as my eyes happen to be very good I detected three black dots in themoonlight, coming out of the east. As I saw the men of Santa Anna goingwest as fast as hoofs would carry them I knew that only Texans could beriding out of the east. "

He laughed, threw his torch on the ground and stamped out the light. 

"I felt that sooner or later someone would come upon Castenada's track, "he said, "and you see that I was not wrong. "

He smiled again. Ned's impression was distinctly favorable, and when heglanced at Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther he saw that they, too, wereattracted. 

"Who are you, stranger?" asked Palmer. "People who meet by night inTexas in these times had best know the names and business of oneanother. "

"Not a doubt of it, " replied the young Mexican. "My name is FranciscoUrrea, and I was born on the Guadalupe. So, you see, I am a Texan, perhaps more truly a Texan than any of you, because I know by looking atyou that all three of you were born in the States. As for my business?"

He grew very serious and looked at the three one after another. 

"My business, " he said, "is to fight for Texas. "

"Well spoke, by the great horn spoon, " roared the Ring Tailed Panther. 

"Yes, to fight for Texas, " resumed young Urrea. "I was on my way toGonzales to join you. I was too late for the fight, but I saw the men ofCastenada, with Castenada himself at their head, flying across theprairie. I assure you there was no delay on their part. First they werehere and then they were gone. The prairie rumbled with their hastytread, their lances glittered for only a single instant, and then theywere lost over the horizon. "

He laughed again, and his laugh was so infectious that the three laughedwith him. 

"I know most people in Texas, " rumbled the Ring Tailed Panther, "thoughthere are some Mexican families I don't know. But I've heard of theUrreas, an' if you want to go with us an' join in tearin' an' chawin'we'll be glad to have you. "

"So we will, " said Ned and Obed together, and Obed added: "Three arecompany, four are better. "

"Very well, then, " said Urrea, "I shall be happy to become one of yourband, and we will ride on together. I've no doubt that I can be of helpif you mean to keep a watch on Cos. My horse is tied here in a clump ofchaparral. Wait a moment and I will rejoin you. "

He came back, riding a fine horse, and he was as well equipped as theTexans. Then the four rode on toward San Antonio de Bexar. They foundthat Urrea knew much. Cos himself would probably be in San Antoniowithin a week, and heavy reinforcements would arrive later. The threein return gave him a description of the fight at the mound, and theytold how the Texans afterward had scattered for different points on theborder. 

They were not the only riders that night. Men were carrying along thewhole frontier the news that the war had begun, that the death strugglewas now on between Mexico and Texas, the giant on one side and the pigmyon the other. 

But the ride of the four in the trail of Castenada's flying troop waspeaceful enough. About three hours after midnight they stopped under theshelter of some cottonwoods. The Ring Tailed Panther took the watchwhile the other three slept. Ned lay awake for a little while betweenhis blankets, but he saw that Urrea, who was not ten feet away, had gonesound asleep almost instantly. His olive face lighted dimly by themoon's rays was smooth and peaceful, and Ned was quite sure that hewould be a good comrade. Then he, too, entered the land of slumber. 

The Ring Tailed Panther stalked up and down, his broad powerful figurebecoming gigantic in the moonlight. Belligerent by nature and the bornfrontiersman, he was very serious now. 

He knew that they were riding toward great danger and he glanced at theface of the sleeping boy. The Ring Tailed Panther had a heart withinhim, and the temptation to make Ned go back, if he could, was verystrong. But he quickly dismissed it as useless. The boy would not go. Besides, he was skillful, strong and daring. 

The Ring Tailed Panther tramped on. Coyotes howled on the prairie, andthe deeper note of a timber wolf came from the right, where there was athick fringe of trees along a creek. But he paid no attention to them. All the while he watched the circle of the horizon, narrow by night, forhorsemen. If they came he believed that his warning must be quick, because they were likely to be either Mexicans or Indians. He saw noriders but toward daylight he saw horses in the west. They were withoutriders and he walked to the nearest swell to look at them. 

He looked down upon a herd of wild horses, many of them clean and fineof build. At their head was a great black stallion and when the RingTailed Panther saw him he sighed. At another time, he would have made atry for the stallion's capture, but now there was other business afoot. 

The wind shifted. The stallion gave a neigh of alarm and galloped offtoward the south, the whole herd with streaming manes and tailsfollowing close behind. The Ring Tailed Panther walked back to thecottonwoods and awoke his companions, because it was now full day. 

"I saw some wild horses grazing close by, " he said, "an' that means thatnobody else is near. Mebbe we can ride clean to San Antonio withoutanybody to stop us. "

"And gain great information for the Texans, " said Urrea quickly. "Houston is to command the forces of Eastern Texas, and he will be gladenough to know just what Cos is doing. "

"And glad will we be to take such news to him, " said Ned. "I've seen himand talked with him, Don Francisco. He is a great man. And I've ridden, too, with Jim Bowie and 'Deaf' Smith and Karnes. "

Urrea smiled pleasantly at Ned's boyish enthusiasm. 

"And they are great men, too, " he said, "Bowie, Smith and Karnes. Ishould not want any one of them to send his bullet at me. "

"Jim Bowie is best with the knife, " said the Ring Tailed Panther, "but Iguess no better shots than 'Deaf' Smith and Hank Karnes were ever born. "

"A horseman is coming, " said Ned who was in advance. The boy had shadedhis eyes from the sun, and his uncommonly keen sight had detected theblack moving speck before any of the others could see it. 

"It's sure to be a Texan, " said Obed. "You won't find any Mexican ridingalone on these plains just now. "

They rode forward to meet him and the horseman, who evidently had keeneyes, too, came forward with equal confidence. It soon became obviousthat he was a Texan as Obed had predicted. His length of limb and bodyshowed despite the fact that he was on horseback, and the long riflethat he carried across the saddle bow was of the frontier type. 

"My name is Jim Potter, " he said as he came within hailing distance. 

"You're welcome, Jim Potter, " said the Ring Tailed Panther. "The long, red-headed man here on my right is Obed White, the boy is Ned Fulton;our young Mexican friend, who is a good Texan patriot, is Don FranciscoUrrea, an' as for me, I'm Martin Palmer, better an' more properly knownas the Ring Tailed Panther. "

"I've heard of you, Panther, " said Potter, "and you and your friends arejust the people I want. "

He spoke with great eagerness, and the soul of the Ring Tailed Panther, foreseeing an impending crisis of some kind, responded. 

"What is it?" he asked. 

"A crowd is gathering to march on Goliad, " replied Potter. "The Mexicancommander there is treating the people with great cruelty and he issending out parties to harass lone Texan homes. We mean to smite him. "

Potter spoke with a certain solemnity of manner and he had the lean, ascetic face of the Puritan. Ned judged that he was from one of theNorthern States of New England, but Obed, a Maine man, was sure of it. 

"Friend, " said Obed, "from which state do you come, New Hampshire orVermont? I take it that it is Vermont. "

"It is Vermont as you rightly surmise, " replied Potter, "and the accentwith which you speak, if I mistake not is found only in Maine. "

"A good guess, also, " said Obed, "but we are both now Texans, heart andsoul; is it not so?"

"It is even so, " replied Potter gravely. Then he and Obed reached acrossfrom their horses and gave each other a powerful clasp. 

"You will go with us to Goliad and help smite the heathen?" said Potter. 

Obed glanced at his comrades, and all of them nodded. 

"We were riding to San Antonio, " said the Maine man, "to find out whatwas going on there, but I see no reason why we should not turn aside tohelp you, since we seem to be needed. "

"Our need of you is great, " said Potter in his solemn, unchanging tones, "as we are but few, and the enemy may be wary. Yet we must smite him andsmite him hard. "

"Then lead the way, " said Obed. "It's better to be too soon than toolate. "

Without another word Potter turned his horse toward the south. He wastall and rawboned, his face burned well by the sun, but he had anangularity and he bore himself with a certain stiffness that did notbelong to the "Texans" of Southern birth. Ned did not doubt that hewould be most formidable in combat. 

After riding at least two hours without anyone speaking a word, Pottersaid:

"We will meet the remainder of our friends and comrades about nightfall. We will not exceed fifty, and more probably we shall be scarcely so manyas that, but with the strength of a just cause in our arms it is likelythat we shall be enough. "

"When we charged at Gonzales they stayed for but one look at our faces, "said the Ring Tailed Panther. "Then they ran so fast that they wererippin' an' tearin' up the prairie for the next twenty-four hours. "

"I have heard of that, " said Potter with a grave smile. "The grass sofar from growing scarcely bent under their feet. Still, the Mexicans attimes will fight with the greatest courage. "

Here Urrea spoke. 

"My friends, " he said, "I must now leave you. I have an uncle andcousins on the San Antonio River, not far above Goliad. Like myself theyare devoted adherents of the Texan cause, and it is more than likelythat they will suffer terribly at the hands of some raiding party fromGoliad, if they are not warned in time. I have tried to steel my heartand go straight with you to Goliad, but I cannot forget those who are sodear to me. However, it is highly probable that I can give them thewarning to flee, and yet rejoin you in time for the attack. "

"We hate to lose a good man, when there's rippin' an' tearin' ahead ofus, " said the Ring Tailed Panther. 

"But if people of his blood are in such great danger he must even go, "said Potter. 

Urrea's face was drawn with lines of mental pain. His expressive eyesshowed great doubt and anguish. Ned felt very sorry for him. 

"It is a most cruel quandary, " said Urrea. "I would go with you, and yetI would stay. Texas and her cause have my love, but to us of Mexicanblood the family also is very, very dear. "

His voice faltered and Latin tears stood in his eyes. 

"Go, " said Obed. "You must save your kin, and perhaps, as you hope, youcan rejoin us in time. "

"Farewell, " said Urrea, "but you will see me again soon. "

He spurred his horse, a powerful animal, and went ahead at a gallop. Soon he disappeared over the swells of the prairie. 

"I hate to see him go, " growled the Ring Tailed Panther. "Mexicans areuncertain even when they are on your side. But he's a big strong fellow, an' he'd be handy in the fight for which we're lookin'. "

But he kept Ned's sympathy. 

"He must save his people, " said the boy. 

Obed and Potter said nothing. At twilight they found the other menwaiting for them in a thicket of mesquite, and the total, including thefour, was only forty. But with Texan daring and courage they madestraight for Goliad, and Ned did not doubt that they would have a fight. Life was now moving fast for him, and it was crowded with incident. 

The troop in loose formation rode swiftly, but the hoofs of their horsesmade little sound on the prairie. The southern moon rode low, and thenight was clear. They crossed two or three creeks, and also went throughnarrow belts of forest, but they never halted or hesitated. Potter andseveral others knew the way well, and night was the same as day tothem. 

At midnight Ned saw a wide but shallow stream, much like the Guadalupe. Trees and reeds lined its banks. Potter informed him that this was theSan Antonio River, and that they were now below the town of Goliad, where they meant to attack the Mexican force. 

"And if Providence favors us, " said Potter, "we shall smite them quickand hard. "

"Providence favors those who hit first and hard, " said Obed, mixingvarious quotations. 

The men forded the river, and, after a brief stop began to movecautiously through thickets of mesquite and chaparral toward the town, the lights of which they could not yet see. At one point the mesquitebecame so thick that Ned, Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther dismounted, in order to pick their way and led their horses. 

Ned, who was in advance, heard a noise, as of something moving in thethicket. At first he thought it was a deer, but the sounds ceasedsuddenly, as if whatever made them were trying to seek safety inconcealment rather than flight. Ned's experience had already made himskillful and daring. The warrior's instinct, born in him, was developingrapidly, and flinging his bridle to Obed he asked him to hold it for amoment. 

Before the surprised man could ask why, Ned left him with the reins inhis hand, cocked his rifle and crept through the mesquite toward thepoint whence the sounds had come. He saw a stooping shadow, and then aman sprang up. Quick as a flash Ned covered him with his rifle. 

"Surrender!" he cried. 

"Gladly, " cried the man, throwing up his hands and laughing in ahysterical way. "I yield because you must be a Texan. That cannot be thevoice of any Mexican. "

Obed and the others came forward and the man strode toward them. He wastall, but gaunt and worn, until he was not much more than a skeleton. His clothing, mere rags, hung loosely on a figure that was now much toonarrow for them. Two bloodshot eyes burned in dark caverns. 

"Thank God, " he cried, "you are Texans, all of you!"

"Why, it's Ben Milam, " said Potter. "We thought you were a prisoner atMonterey in Mexico. "

"I was, " replied Milam, one of the Texan leaders, "but I escaped andobtained a horse. I have ridden nearly seven hundred miles day andnight. My horse dropped dead down there in the chaparral and I've beenhere, trying to take a look at Goliad, uncertain about going in, becauseI do not know whether it is held by Texans or Mexicans. "

"It is held by Mexicans at present, " replied Potter, solemnly. "But Ithink that within an hour or two it will be held by Texans. "

"If it ain't there'll be some mighty roarin' an' rippin' an' tearin', "said the Ring Tailed Panther. 

"Give me a bite to eat and something to drink, " said Milam; "and I'llhelp you turn Goliad from a Mexican into a Texan town. "

Exhausted and nearly starved, he showed, nevertheless, the dauntlessspirit of the Texans. Food and drink were given to him and the littleparty moved toward the town. Presently they saw one or two lights. Faroff a dog howled, but it was only at the moon. He had not scented them. By and by the ground grew so rough and the bushes so thick that alldismounted and tethered their horses. Then they crept into the very edgeof the town, still unseen and unheard. Potter pointed to a largebuilding. 

"That, " he said, "is the headquarters of Colonel Sandoval, thecommandant, and if you look closely you will see a sentinel walking upand down before the door. "

"We will make a rush for that house, " said the leader of the Texans, "and call upon the sentinel to yield. "

They slipped from the cover and ran toward the house, shouting to theMexican on guard to surrender. But he fired at them point blank, although his bullet missed, and a shot from one of the Texans slew him. The next moment they were thundering at the door of the house, in whichwere Sandoval and the larger part of his garrison. The door held fast, and shots were fired at them from the windows. 

Some of the Texans ran to the neighboring houses, obtained axes andsmashed in the door. Then they poured in, every man striving to befirst, and most of the Mexicans fled through the back doors or thewindows, escaping in the darkness into the mesquite and chaparral. Sandoval himself, half dressed, was taken by the Ring Tailed Panther andObed. He made many threats, but Obed replied:

"You have chosen war and the Texans are giving it to you as best theycan. Our bullets fall on all Mexicans, whether just or unjust. "

Sandoval said no more, but finished his interrupted toilet. It was clearto Ned, watching his face, that the Mexican colonel considered all theTexans doomed, despite their success of the moment. Sandoval was stillin his quarters. His arms had been taken away but he suffered no illtreatment. Despite the rapid flight of the Mexican soldiers twenty-fiveor thirty had been taken and they were held outside. The Texans notknowing what to do with them decided to release them later on parole. 

Ned was about to leave Sandoval's room when he met at the door a youngman, perspiring, wild of eye and bearing all the other signs of hasteand excitement. It was Francisco Urrea. 

"I am too late!" he cried. "Alas! Alas! I would have had a share in thisglorious combat! I should like to have taken Sandoval with my own hand!I have cause to hate that man!"

Sandoval was sitting on the edge of his bed, and the eyes of the twoMexicans flashed anger at each other, Urrea went up, and shook his handin the face of Sandoval. Sandoval shook his in the face of Urrea. Wrathwas equal between them. Fierce words were exchanged with such swiftnessthat Ned could not understand them. He judged that the young Mexicanmust have some deep cause for hatred of Sandoval. But the Ring TailedPanther interfered. He did not like this trait of abusing a fallen foewhich he considered typically Mexican. 

"Come away, Don Francisco, " he said. "The rippin' an' tearin' are overan' we can do our roarin' outside!"

He took Urrea by the arm and led him away. Ned preceded them. Outside hemet Obed who was in the highest spirits. 

"We've done more than capture Mexicans, " he said. "It never rains but itturns into a storm. We've gone through the Mexican barracks and we'vemade a big haul here. Let's take a look. "

Ned went with him, and, when he saw, he too exulted. Goliad had beenmade a place of supply by the Mexicans, and, stored there, the Texanshad taken a vast quantity of ammunition, rounds of powder and lead tothe scores of thousands, five hundred rifles and three fine cannon. Someof the Texans joined hands in a wild Indian dance, when they saw theirspoils, and the eyes of Ned and Obed glistened. 

"Unto the righteous shall be given, " said Obed. "We've done far betterto-night than we hoped. We'll need these in the advance on Cos and SanAntonio. "

"They will be of the greatest service, " said Urrea who joined them atthat moment. "How I envy you your glory!"

"What happened to you, Don Francisco?" asked Obed. 

"I carried the warning to my uncle and his family, " replied Urrea. "Iwas just in time. Guerrillas of Cos came an hour later, and burned thehouse to the ground. They destroyed everything, the stables and barns, and they even killed the horses and the cattle. Ah, what a ruin! I rodeback by there on my way to Goliad. "

The young Mexican pressed his hands over his eyes and Ned thrilled withsympathy. 

"What became of your uncle and his family?" asked the boy. 

"They rode north for San Felipe de Austin. They will be safe but theylose all. "

"Never mind, " said Obed, "we'll make the Mexicans pay it back, when wedrive 'em out of Texas. I don't believe that any good patriot willsuffer. "

"Nevertheless, " said Urrea, "my uncle is willing to lose and endure forthe cause. "

Ned slept half through the morning in one of the little adobe houses, and at noon he, Obed, the Ring Tailed Panther and others rode toward SanAntonio. They slept that night in a pecan grove, and the next daycontinued their journey, meeting in the morning a Texan who informedthem that Cos with a formidable force was in San Antonio. He alsoconfirmed the information that the Texans were gathering from all pointsfor the attack upon this, the greatest Mexican fortress in all Texas. Mr. Austin was commander-in-chief of the forces, but he wished to yieldthe place to Houston who would not take it. 

Late in the afternoon they saw horsemen and rode toward them boldly. Thegroup was sixty or eighty in number and they stopped for the smallerbody to approach. Ned's keen eyes recognized them first, and he uttereda cry of joy. 

"There's Mr. Bowie, " he said, "and there are Smith and Karnes, too! Theyare all on their way to San Antonio. "

He took off his hat and waved it joyously. Smith and Karnes did the sameand Bowie smiled gravely as the boy rode up. 

"Well, Ned, " he said, "we meet again and I judge that we ride on thesame errand. "

"We do. To San Antonio. "

"An' there'll be the biggest fight that was ever seen in Texas, " saidthe Ring Tailed Panther, who knew Bowie well. "If Mexicans an' Texanswant to get to roarin' an' rippin' they'll have the chance. "

"They will, Panther, " said Bowie, still smiling gravely. Then he lookedinquiringly at Urrea. 

"This is Don Francisco Urrea, " said Obed. "He was born in Texas, and heis with us heart and soul. By a hard ride he saved his uncle and familyfrom slaughter by the guerrillas of Cos, and he reached Goliad just afew minutes too late to take part in the capture of the Mexican force. "

"Some of the Mexicans born in Texas are with us, " said Bowie, "andbefore we are through at San Antonio, Don Francisco, you will have agood chance to prove your loyalty to Texas. "

"I shall prove it, " said Urrea vehemently. 

"The place for the gathering of our troops is on Salado Creek near SanAntonio, " said Bowie, "and I think that we shall find both Mr. Austinand General Houston there. "

Bowie was extremely anxious to be at a conference with the leaders, andtaking Ned, Obed, the Ring Tailed Panther and a few others he rodeahead. Ned suggested that Urrea go too, but Bowie did not seem anxiousabout him, and he was left behind. 

"Maybe he would not be extremely eager to fire upon people of his ownblood if we should happen to meet the Mexican lancers, " said Bowie. "Idon't like to put a man to such a test before I have to do it. "

Urrea showed disappointment, but, after some remonstrance, he submittedwith a fair grace. 

"I'll see you again before San Antonio, " he said to Ned. 

Ned shook his hand, and galloped away with the little troop, which alltold numbered only sixteen. Bowie kept them at a rapid pace untilsundown and far after. Ned saw that the man was full of care, and he tooappreciated the importance of the situation. Events were coming to acrisis and very soon the Texans and the army of Cos would stand face toface. 

They slept on the open prairie, and were in the saddle again beforedawn. Bowie now curved a little to the North. They were coming intocountry over which Mexicans rode, and he did not wish a clash. But theRing Tailed Panther was not sanguine about a free passage, nor did heseem to care. 

"It's likely that the Mexican bands are out ridin', " he said. "Cos ain'tno fool, an' he'll be on the lookout for us. There's more timber as youcome toward San Antonio, an' there'll be a lot of chances for ambushes. "

"I believe you are hoping for one, " said Ned. 

The Ring Tailed Panther did not answer, but he looked upon this youngfriend of his of whom he thought so much, and his dark face parted inone of the broadest smiles that Ned had ever seen. 

"I ain't runnin' away from the chance of it, " he replied. 

They saw a little later a belt of timber to their right. Ned'sexperience told him that it masked the bed of a creek, probably flowingto the San Antonio River, and he noticed, although they were at somedistance, that the trees seemed to be of unusually fine growth. Thisfact first attracted his attention, but he lost sight of it when he sawa glint of unusually bright light among the trunks. He looked moreclosely. Here again experience was of value. It was the peculiar kind oflight that he had seen before, when a ray from the sun struck squarelyon the steel head of a lance. 

"Look!" he said to Obed and Bowie. 

They looked, and Bowie instantly halted his men. The face of the RingTailed Panther suddenly lighted up. He too had good eyes, and he said intones of satisfaction:

"Figures are movin' among the trees, an' they are those of mounted menwith lances. Texans don't carry lances an' I think we shall be attackedby a Mexican force within a few minutes, Colonel Bowie. "

"It is altogether probable, " replied Bowie. "See, they are coming fromthe wood, and they number at least sixty. "

"Nearer seventy, I think, " said Obed. 

"Whether sixty or seventy, they are not too many for us to handle, " saidBowie. 

The Mexicans had seen the little group of Texans and they were comingfast. The wind brought their shouts and they brandished their longlances. Ned observed with admiration how cool Bowie and all the menremained. 

"Ride up in a line, " said Bowie. "Here, Ned, bring your horse by me andall of you face the Mexicans. Loosen your pistols, and when I give theword to fire let 'em have it with your rifles. "

They were on the crest of one of the swells and the sixteen horses stoodin a row so straight that a line stretched across their front would havetouched the head of every one. They were trained horses, too, and theriders dropped the reins on their necks, while they held their riflesready. 

It was hard for Ned to keep his nerves steady, but Obed was on one sideof him and Bowie on the other, while the Ring Tailed Panther was justbeyond Obed. Pride as well as necessity kept him motionless and tautlike the others. 

Doubtless the Mexicans would have turned, had it not been for thesmallness of the force opposed to them, but they came on rapidly in along line, still shouting and brandishing their weapons. Ned saw theflaming eyes of the horses, and he marked the foam upon their jaws. Forwhat was Bowie waiting! Nearer they came, and the beat of the hoofsthundered in his ears. It seemed that the flashing steel of the lanceswas at his throat. He had already raised his rifle and was taking aim atthe man in front of him, all his nerves now taut for the conflict. 

"Fire!" cried Bowie, and sixteen rifles were discharged as one. 

Not a bullet went astray. The Mexican line was split asunder, and horsesand men went down in a mass. A few, horses and men, rose, and ran acrossthe plain. But the wings of the Mexican force closed in, and continuedthe charge, expecting victory, now that the rifles were empty. But theyforgot the pistols. Ned snatched his from the holster, and fireddirectly into the evil face of a lancer who was about to crash into him. The Mexican fell to the ground and his horse, swerving to one side, galloped on. 

The pistols cracked all around Ned, and then, the Mexicans, sheeringoff, fled as rapidly as they had charged. But they left several behindwho would never charge again. 

"All right, Ned?" said the cheery voice of Obed. 

"Not hurt at all, " replied the boy. But as he spoke he gazed down at theface of the man who had tried to crash into him, and he shuddered. Heknew that face. At the first glance it had seemed familiar, and at thesecond he had remembered perfectly. It was the face of the man who hadstruck him with the butt of a lance on that march in Mexico, when he wasthe prisoner of Cos. It seemed a vengeance dealt out by the hand offate. He who had received the blow had given it in return, although notknowing at the time. Ned recognized the justice of fate, but he did notrejoice. Nor did he speak of the coincidence to anyone. It was not athing of which he wished to talk. 

"They're gone, " said the Ring Tailed Panther, speaking now in satisfiedtones. "They came, they stayed half a minute, an' then they went, butthere was some rippin' an tearin' an' chawin'. "

"Yes, they've gone, and they've gone to stay, " said Bowie. "It was afoolish thing to do to charge Texans armed with rifles on the openprairie. "

Ned was looking at the last Mexican as he disappeared over the plain. 

CHAPTER XVII

THE OLD CONVENT

The Texans gathered up the arms of the fallen Mexicans, except thelances for which they had no use, finding several good rifles and anumber of pistols of improved make which were likely to prove of greatvalue, and then they rode on as briskly as if nothing had happened. 

The next day they drew near to San Antonio and entered the beautifulvalley made by the San Antonio River and the creek to which the Mexicansgave the name San Pedro. Ned found it all very luxuriant and veryrefreshing to eyes tired of the prairies and the plains. Despite thefact that it was the middle of October the green yet endured in thatsouthern latitude. Splendid forests still in foliage bounded both creekand river. They rode through noble groves of oak and tall pecans. Theysaw many fine springs spouting from the earth, and emptying into riverand creek. 

It was a noble land, but, although it had been settled long by Spaniardand Mexican, the wilderness still endured in many of its aspects. Nowand then a deer sprang up from the thickets, and the wild turkeys stillroosted in the trees. Churches and other buildings, many of massivestone adorned with carved and costly marbles, extended ten or twelvemiles down the river, but most of them were abandoned and in decay. TheComanche and his savage brother, the Apache, had raided to the verygates of San Antonio. The deep irrigation ditches, dug by the Spanishpriests and their Indian converts, were abandoned, and mud and refusewere fast filling them up. Already an old civilization, sunk in decay, was ready to give place to another, rude and raw, but full of youth andvigor. 

It was likely that Ned alone felt these truths, as they reached thelowest outskirts of the missions, and stopped at an abandoned stoneconvent, built at the very edge of the San Antonio, where the waters ofthe river, green and clear, flowed between banks clothed in a deep andluxuriant foliage. Half of the troop entered the convent, while theothers watched on the horses outside. It impressed Ned with a sense ofdesolation fully equal to that of the ancient pyramid or the lost city. Everything of value that the nuns had not taken away had been strippedfrom the place by Comanche, Apache or Lipan. 

It was nearly night when they arrived at the convent. The Texan campstill lay some miles away, their horses were very tired, and Bowiedecided to remain in the ruined building until morning. The main portionof the structure was of stone, two stories high, but there were someextensions of wood, from one of which the floor had been taken away byplunderers. It was Ned who discovered this floorless room and hesuggested that they lead the horses into it, especially as the night wasturning quite cold, and there were signs of rain. 

"A good thought, " said Bowie. "We'll do it. "

The horses made some trouble at the door, but when they were finallydriven in, and unsaddled and unbridled they seemed content. Two windows, from which the glass was long since gone, admitted an abundance of air, and Ned and several others, taking their big bowie knives, went out tocut grass for them. 

On foot, Ned was impressed more than ever by the desolation andloneliness of the place. The grounds had been surrounded by an adobewall, now broken through in many places. On one side had been a littleflower garden, and on the other a larger kitchen garden. One or two lateroses bloomed in the flower garden, but most of it had been destroyed byweather. 

Ned and the others cut armfuls of grass in a little meadow, just beyondthe adobe wall, and they hastened the work. They did not like the looksof the night. The skies were darkening very fast, and they sawoccasional flashes of lightning in the far southwest. Ned looked back atthe convent. It was now an almost formless bulk against the somber sky, its most prominent feature being the cupola in which a bronze bell stillhung. 

The wind rose and cold drops of rain struck him. He shivered. Itpromised to be one of those raw, cold nights frequent in the southwest, and he knew that the rain would be chill and penetrating. He was gladthat they had found the convent. 

They gave the grass to the horses, and then they went into the mainportion of the convent, where Bowie and the rest were already at work. Here the ruin was not so great, as the Spaniards had built in a solidmanner, according to their custom. They found a large room, with an openfireplace, in which Ned would have been glad to see wood blazing, butBowie did not consider it worth while to gather materials for a fire. Adjoining this room was a chapel, in which a pulpit, a desecrated imageof the Virgin, and some frames without the pictures, yet remained. Angerfilled Ned's heart that anyone should plunder and spoil such a place, and he turned sorrowfully away. 

Back of the large rooms were workrooms, kitchen and laundry, allstripped of nearly everything. The narrow stairway that led to the upperfloor was in good condition, and, when Ned mounted it, he saw rows ofnarrow little cell-like rooms in which the nuns had slept. All werebleak and bare, but, from a broken window at the end of the corridor, helooked out upon the San Antonio and the forests of oak and pecan. Hecould barely see the river, the night had grown so dark. The cold rainincreased and was lashed against the building by a moaning wind. Oncemore Ned shivered, and once more he was glad that they had found the oldconvent. He was glad to return to the main room, where Bowie and theothers were gathered. 

The room had been lighted by two windows, facing the San Antonio and twoon the side. They had been closed originally by shutters, which were nowgone, but as the windows were narrow the driving rain did not enter far. One or two of the men, sharing Ned's earlier feeling, spoke up in favorof a fire. They wanted the cheerfulness that light and warmth give. ButBowie refused again. 

"Not necessary, " he said. "We are here in the enemy's country, and we donot want to give him warning of our presence. We met the lancers to-day, and we have no desire to meet them again to-night. "

"Right, " the Ring Tailed Panther roared gently to Ned. "When you'remakin' war you must fight first an' take your pleasure afterward. "

It was warm enough in the room and the open windows gave them all theair they needed. Every man, except those detailed for the guard, spreadhis blankets and went to sleep. Ned was on the early watch. He, too, would have liked sleep. He could have felt wonderfully fine rolled inthe blankets with the cold rain pattering on the walls outside. But hewas chosen for the first watch, and his time would come later. 

Ned was posted at a broken door that led to the extension in which thehorses were sheltered. The remaining sentinels, three in number, including the Ring Tailed Panther, were stationed in different parts ofthe building. The boy from his position in the broken doorway could seeinto the room where his comrades slept, and, when he looked in the otherdirection, he could also see the horses, some of which were now lyingdown. 

It was all very still in the old convent. So deep was this silence thatNed began to fancy that he heard the breathing of his sleeping comrades. It was only fancy. The horses had ceased to stir. Perhaps they were asglad as the men that they had found shelter. But outside Ned hearddistinctly the moaning of the wind, and the lashing of the cold rainagainst roof and walls. 

On the right where the extension had been connected with the mainbuilding of stone there was a great opening, and through this Ned lookeddown toward the adobe wall and the San Antonio. He saw dimly across theriver a dark waving mass which he knew to be the pecan trees, bending inthe wind, but on his own side of the stream he could distinguishnothing. But he watched there unceasingly, save for occasional glancesat the horses or his sleeping comrades. 

He could now see objects very well within the room. He was able to counthis comrades sleeping on the floor. He saw two empty picture frames onthe wall, and, near by, a rope, which he surmised led to the bell in thecupola, and which some chance had allowed to remain there. Now and thenNed and one of his comrades of the watch met and exchanged a few words, but they always spoke in whispers, lest they awaken the sleeping men. After these brief meetings Ned would return to his watch at the opening. 

The character of the night did not change as time trailed its slowlength away. One solid black cloud covered the sky from horizon tohorizon. The wind out of the southwest never ceased to moan, and thecold rain blew steadily upon the walls and roof of the ruined convent. Itwas not a night when either Texans or Mexicans would wish to be abroad, and, as the chill grew sharper and more penetrating, Ned wrapped one ofhis blankets about his shoulders. 

As the night advanced, Ned's sense of oppression deepened. He felt oncemore as he had felt at the pyramid, that he was among old dead things. Ghosts could walk here as truly as they could walk on the banks of theTeotihuacan. Sometimes as the great cloud lightened the least bit hecaught glimpses of the grass and weeds that grew between him and thebroken adobe wall which was about fifteen yards away. 

Only an hour more, and the second watch would come on. Ned began tothink of his place on the floor, and of the deep and dreamless sleepthat he knew would be his. Then he was attracted by a glimpse of theadobe wall. It seemed to him that he had seen a projection, where therewas none before. He looked a second time, and he did not see it. Fancyplayed strange tricks at midnight in the enemy's country, and in thedesolate silence. 

Ned shook himself. Although a vivid imagination might be excusable atsuch a time even in a man, a veteran of many campaigns, he wasessentially an uncompromising realist, and he wished to see factsexactly as they were. The work upon which he was engaged allowed no timefor the breeding of fancy. 

He looked again and there were two projections where he had seen onlyone before. They resembled knobs on the adobe wall, rising perhaps halfa foot above it, and the sight troubled Ned. Was fancy to prove toostrong, when he had drilled himself so long to see the real? Was he tobe played with by the imagination, as if he had no will of his own?

He thought once of speaking to the sentinels at the other doors, but hecould not compel himself to do it. They would laugh at him, and it is abitter thing to be laughed at. So he kept his watch, and while he lookedthe projections appeared, disappeared and appeared once more. 

He could stand it no longer. Putting his rifle under his blanket inorder to keep the weapon dry he stepped out of doors, but flattenedhimself against the wall of the convent. The rain and wind whipped himunmercifully, and the cold ran through him, but he was resolved to seewhat was happening by the adobe wall. The projections were there andthey had increased to four. They did not go away. 

Ned was now convinced that it was not fancy. His mind had obeyed hiswill, and he was the true realist, no victim of the imagination. He wasabout to kneel down in the grass, and crawl toward the wall, whensomething caused him to change his mind. One of the projections suddenlyextended a full yard above the wall, and resolved itself into the shapeof a man. But what a man! The body from the waist up was naked, andabove it rose a head crested with long hair, black and coarse. Otherheads and bodies also savage and naked rose up beside it on the wall. Ned knew in an instant and springing back within the convent he cried:

"Comanches! Comanches! Up men, up!"

At the same moment, acting on impulse, he seized the rope that hung bythe wall and pulled it hard, fast and often. Above in the cupola thegreat bronze bell boomed forth a tremendous solemn note that rose farover the moaning of the wind. From the adobe wall came a fierce yell, asinister cry that swelled until it became a high and piercing volume ofsound, and then died away in a menacing note like the howl of wolves. But Ned, impulse still his master, never ceased to pull the bell. 

All the Texans were on their feet at once, wide awake, rifles in theirhands. 

"Lie down, men, by the doors!" cried Bowie, "and shoot anything thattries to come in. Ned, let go the rope, you are in range there, and liedown with us! But you have done well, boy! You have done well! You havesaved us all from being scalped, and perhaps the booming of the big bellwill bring us help that we may need badly!"

Ned threw himself on the floor just in time to avoid a bullet that sangin at the open doorway. But no other shot was fired then. The Comanchesin silence sank back into the darkness and the rain. The defenders layon the floor, guarding the doorways with open rifles. They could not seemuch, but they could hear well, and since Ned had given the warning intime every one of the little party felt that they held a fortress. 

Ned's pulses were still leaping, but great pride was in his heart. Itwas he, not one of the veterans, who had saved them, and Bowie hadinstantly spoken words of high approval. He was now lying flat on thefloor, but he looked out once more at the same opening. There werecertainly no projections on the wall now, but he could not tell whetherthe Comanches were inside it or outside. If they crept to the sides ofthe convent's stone walls the riflemen could not reach them there. Hewondered how many they were and how they had happened to raid so near toSan Antonio at this time. 

Then ensued a long and trying period of silence. Less experienced menthan the Texans might have thought that the Comanches had gone awayafter the failure of their attempt at surprise, but these veterans knewbetter. Bowie and all of them were trying to divine their point ofattack and how to meet it. For the present, they could do nothing butwatch the doorways, and guard themselves against a sudden rush of theirdangerous foe. 

"Panther, " said Obed White, "it seems to me that you're getting all theripping and tearing and chawing that you want on this trip. "

"It ain't what you might call monotonous, " said the Ring Tailed Panther. "I agree to that much. "

It had been fully an hour now since Ned had rung the great bell, andthey had heard no noises save the usual ones of that night, the wind andthe rain. He surmised at last that the Comanches had taken advantage ofthe war between the Texans and Mexicans to make a raid on the SanAntonio Valley, expecting to gallop in, do their terrible work, and thenbe away. Doubtless it had not occurred to them that they would meet sucha group as that led by Bowie and the Ring Tailed Panther. 

"Ned, " said Bowie, "creep across the floor there to that rope and ringthe bell again. Ring it a long time. Either it will hurry the Comanchesinto action, or friends of ours will hear it. It's likely that all theMexicans have now withdrawn into San Antonio, and that only Texans, besides this band of Comanches, are abroad in the valley. "

Ned wormed himself across the floor, and then, pressing himself againstthe wall, reached up for the rope. A strange thought darted into hisbrain. He had a deep feeling for music, and he could play both theviolin and piano. He could also ring chimes. He was keyed to the utmost, every pulse and vein surcharged with the emotion that comes from adesperate situation and a great impulse to save it. 

The great bell suddenly began to peal forth the air of The Star SpangledBanner. Some of the notes may have gone wrong, there may have beenerrors of time and emphasis, but the old tune, then young, was there. Every man lying on the floor, every one of whom was born in the States, knew it, and every heart leaped. Elsewhere it might have been acommonplace thing to do, but there in the night and the storm, surrounded by enemies, on a vast and lonely frontier it was aninspiration. Every Texan in the valley who heard it would know that itwas the call of a friend asking for help, and he would come. 

Not a Texan moved, but they breathed heavily. Overhead the great bellboomed solemnly on, and Ned, his hand on the rope, put all his heart andstrength into the task. A rifle cracked and a bullet entered thedoorway, but it passed over the heads of the Texans, and flattenedagainst the stone wall beyond. A rifle inside cracked in response, and aComanche in the grass and weeds uttered a death yell. 

"I was watchin' for just such a chance, " said the Ring Tailed Panther insatisfied tones. "I saw him when he rose to fire. Just as you thought, Mr. Bowie, the bell is makin' their nerves raw, an' they feel that theymust do somethin' right away. "

"What a queer note that was in Ned's tune!" suddenly exclaimed Obed. 

Bowie laughed. 

"An angry Comanche shot at the bell and hit it. That's what happened, "he said. "They can waste as many bullets as they please that way. "

But the Comanches wasted no more just then. A noise came from thehorses. The shots evidently had alarmed them, and they were beginning tostamp and rear. Four men, at the order of Bowie, slipped into theimprovised stable and sought to quiet them. They also remained there tokeep a guard at the broken windows. Ned, unconscious how much time hadpassed, was still ringing the bell. 

"You can rest now, Ned, " said Bowie. "That was a good idea of yours andyou can repeat it later on. I'm thinking that the Comanches will soonact, if they are going to act at all. "

But nothing occurred for nearly an hour, when the horses began to rearand stamp again. Two or three of them also uttered shrill neighs. Bowie, with Ned, Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther joined the four already inthe improvised stable. The horses would not be quieted. It was quiteevident that instinct was warning them of something that human beingscould not yet detect. 

Ned wondered. He put his hand on the neck of his own horse which knewhim well, yet the beast trembled all over, and uttered a sudden shrillneigh. It was quite dark in the place, only a little light comingthrough the broken windows, yet Ned was quite sure that no Comanches hadmanaged to get inside, and lie in hiding there. 

A few moments later the Ring Tailed Panther uttered a fierce cry. 

"I smell smoke!" he cried. "That's why the horses are so scared. Thedemons have managed to set fire to this place which is wood. That's whythey've been so quiet!"

Ned, too, now smelt the strong odor of smoke, and a spurt of fireappeared at a crack between two of the planks at the far end of theplace. The struggles of the horses increased. They were wild withfright. 

Ned instantly recognized the danger. The burning wooden building wouldfill the stone convent itself with flame and smoke, and make ituntenable. The sparks already had become many, and the odor of smoke wasincreasing. Their situation, suddenly become desperate, was growing moreso every instant. But they were Texans, inured to every kind of danger. Bowie shouted for more men to come from the convent, leaving only fiveor six on guard there. 

Then the Texans began to bring method and procedure out of the turmoil. Some held the horses, others, led by Bowie, kicked loose the lightplanks where the fire had been started, and hurled them outward. Theywere nearly choked by the smoke but they worked on. 

The Comanches, many of whom were hugging the wall, shouted their warcry, and began to fire into the opening that Bowie and his men had made. They could not take much aim, because of the smoke, but their bulletswounded two Texans. Despite the danger Bowie and most of his men werestill compelled to work at the fire. The room was full of smoke, andbehind them the horses were yet struggling with those who held them. 

The Ring Tailed Panther lay down and resting himself on one elbow tookaim with his rifle. He was almost clear of the smoke which hung in abank above him. Ned noticed him and imitated him. He saw a dusky figureoutside and when he fired it fell. The Ring Tailed Panther did as well, and Obed joined them. While Bowie and the others were dashing out thefire, three great marksmen were driving back the Comanches who sought totake advantage of the diversion. 

"Good! good!" cried Bowie, as they knocked out the last burning plank. 

"That ends the fire, " said Obed, "and now we've got a hole here which isnot so deep as a well, nor so wide as a barn door, but I do not think itwill suffice for our friends, the Comanches. "

All the men turned their attention to the enemy, and, lying on theground, they took as good aim as the darkness would permit. The Texanrifles cracked fast and, despite the darkness, the bullets often foundthe chosen targets. The Comanches had been shouting the war whoopcontinuously, but now their cries began to die, and their fire died withit. Never a very good marksman, the Indian was no match for the Texans, every one of whom was a sharpshooter, armed with a fine rifle of longrange. 

The Texans also fired from the shelter of the building, and, as thegreat cloud was now parting, letting through shafts from the moon, theComanches were unable to find good hiding in the weeds and grass. Thebullets pursued them there. No matter how low they lay the keen eye ofsome Texan searched them out, and sent in the fatal or wounding bullet. Soon they were driven to the shelter of the adobe wall, where they lay, and for a little while returned a scattering fire which did no harm. After it ceased no Comanche uttered a war whoop and there was silenceagain, save for the rain which now trickled down softly. 

Bowie distributed sentinels at the openings, including the new one madeby the fire, and then the Texans took count of themselves. They had notescaped unscathed. One lying on the floor had received a bullet in hishead and had died in silence, unnoticed in the battle. Two men hadsuffered wounds, but they were not severe, and would not keep them fromtaking part in a renewal of the combat, should it come. 

All this reckoning was made in the dusk of the old convent, and with theweariness of both body and soul that comes after a period of great andprolonged exertion. Within the two rooms that they had defended, theodor of burned gunpowder was strong, stinging throat and nostrils. Eddies of smoke hung between floor and ceiling. Many of the men coughed, and it was long before they could reduce the horses to entire quiet. 

They wrapped the dead man in his blankets and laid him in the corner. They bound up the hurts of the others, as best they could and then, savefor the watching, they relaxed completely. Ned, his back against thewall, sat with his friends Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther. He wasutterly exhausted, and even in the dusk the men noticed it. 

"Here, Ned, " said Obed, "take a chew of this. You may not feel that youneed it, but it will be a good thing for you. "

He extended a strip of dried venison. Ned thanked him and ate, althoughhe had not felt hungry. By and by he grew stronger, and then Bowiecalled to him. 

"Ned, " he said, "crawl across the floor again. Be sure you do not raiseyour head until you reach the wall. Then ring the bell, until I tell youto stop. I've a notion that somebody will come by morning. Boys, therest of you be ready with your rifles. It was the bell before thatbrought on the attack. "

Ned slid across the floor, and once more pulled the rope with the oldfervor, sending the notes of the tune that he could play best far outover the valley of the San Antonio. But no reply came from theComanches. They did not dare to rush the place again in the face ofthose deadly Texan rifles. They made no sound while the bell played on, but the Texans knew that they still lay behind the adobe wall, ready fora shot at any incautious head. 

Ned rang for a full half hour, before Bowie told him to quit. Then hecrept back to his place. He put his head on his folded blanket and, although not intending it, fell asleep, despite the close air of theplace. But he awoke before it was dawn, and hastily sat up, ashamed. When he saw in the dark that half the men were asleep he was ashamed nolonger. Bowie, who was standing by one of the doors, but sheltered froma shot, smiled at him. 

"The sun will rise in a half hour, Ned, " he said, "and you've waked upin time to hear the answer to your ringing of the bell. Listen!"

Ned strained his ears, and he heard a faint far sound, musical like hisown call. It seemed to him to be the note of a trumpet. 

"Horsemen are coming, " said Bowie, "and unless I am far wrong they areTexans. Ring again, Ned. "

The bell boomed forth once more, and for the last time. Clear and sharp, came the peal of the trumpet in answer. One by one the men awoke. Thelight was now appearing in the East, the gray trembling into silver. From the valley came the rapid beat of hoofs, a rifle shot and thenthree or four more. Bowie ran out at the door, and Ned followed him. Across the meadows the Comanches scurried on their ponies, and a groupof white men sent a volley after them. Then the white men gallopedtoward the convent. Bowie walked forward to meet them. 

"You were never more welcome, Fannin, " he said to the leader of thegroup. 

The man sprang from his horse, and grasped Bowie's hand. 

"We rode as fast as we could, but I didn't know it was you, Jim, " hesaid. "Some of our scouts heard a bell somewhere playing The StarSpangled Banner in the night. We thought they were dreaming, but theyswore to it. So we concluded it must be a call for help and I came withthe troop that you see here. We lost the direction once or twice, butthe bell called us back. "

"For that, " said Bowie, "you have to thank this boy here, a boy in yearsonly, a man in action, and two men in mind and courage. This is NedFulton, Colonel Fannin. "

Ned blushed and expostulated, but Bowie took nothing back. Fannin lookedabout him curiously. 

"You seem to have had something of a fight here, " he said. "Down in thegrass and weeds we saw several Comanches who will trouble no more. "

"We had all we wanted, " said Bowie, "and we shall be glad to ride atonce with you to camp. I bring some good men for the cause, and thereare more behind. "

They buried the fallen man in the old flower garden, and then rodeswiftly for the Texan camp on the Salado. 

CHAPTER XVIII

IN SAN ANTONIO

It was a crisp October morning, and as he galloped through the freshair, all of Ned's spirits came back to him. He would soon be with thefull array of the Texans, marching forward boldly to meet Cos himselfand all his forces. The great strain of the fight the night beforepassed away as he inhaled the sparkling air. The red came back to hischeeks, and he felt that he was ready to go wherever the boldest of theTexans led. The Ring Tailed Panther shared his emotions. 

"Fine, isn't it?" said he. "Great valley, too, but it oughtn't to belongto the Mexicans. It's been going down under them for a long time. Theyhaven't been able to protect it from Comanches, Apaches and Lipans. Theold convent that we held last night had been abandoned for fear of theIndians, an' lots of other work that the Spaniards an' Mexicans did hasgone the same way. "

The beauty of the country increased, as they rode. Fine springs of coldwater gushed from the hills and flowed down into the clear green streamof the San Antonio. The groves of oaks and pecans were superb, but theypassed more desolate and abandoned buildings and crossed more irrigationditches choked up with refuse. 

Bowie called Ned up to his side, and had him to relate again all that hehad seen and heard in Mexico. 

"Mr. Austin is at the camp, " said Fannin, "and he has been asking aboutyou. "

Ned's heart thrilled. There was a strong bond between him and thegentle, kindly man who strove so hard to serve both Texas and Mexico, and whom Santa Anna had long kept a prisoner for his pains. 

"When will we reach the camp?" he asked Bowie. 

"In less than a half hour. See, the scouts have already sighted us. "

The scouts came up in a few moments, and then they drew near the camp. Ned, eager of eye, observed everything. 

The heart of the camp was in the center of a pecan grove, where a fewtents for the leading men stood, but the Texans were spread all about inboth groves and meadows, where they slept under the open sky. They woreno uniforms. All were in hunting suits of dressed deerskin or homespun, but they were well armed with the long rifles which they knew how to usewith such wonderful skill. They had no military tactics, but theyinvariably pressed in where the foe was thickest and the dangergreatest. They were gathered now in hundreds from all the Texassettlements to defend the homes that they had built in the wilderness, and Cos with his Mexican army did not dare to come out of San Antonio. 

The Texans welcomed Bowie and his men with loud acclaim. Ned and hiscomrades unsaddled, tethered their horses and lay down luxuriously inthe grass. Mr. Austin was busy in his tent at a conference of theleaders and Ned would wait until the afternoon to see him. Obedsuggested that they take a nap. 

"In war eat when you can and sleep when you can, " he said. "Sleep lostonce is lost forever. "

"Obed has got some sense if he don't look like it, " chuckled the RingTailed Panther. "Here's to followin' his advice. "

Ned took it, too, and slept until the afternoon, when a messenger askedhim to come to Mr. Austin's tent, a large one, with the sides now open. Obed was invited to come with him, and, as Ned stood in the door of thetent the mild, grave man advanced eagerly, a glow of pleasure andaffection on his face. 

"My boy! my boy!" he said, putting both hands on Ned's shoulders. "I wassure that I should never see you again, after you made your wonderfulescape from our prison in Mexico. But you are here in Texas none theworse, and they tell me you have passed through a very Odyssey ofhardship and danger. "

Water stood in Ned's eyes. He rejoiced in the affection and esteem ofthis man, and yet Mr. Austin was very unlike the rest of the Texans. They were rough riders; men of the plains always ready to fight, but he, cultivated and scholarly, was for peace and soft words. He had used hismethods, and they had failed, inuring only to the advantage of SantaAnna and Mexico. He had failed most honorably, but he looked very muchworn and depressed. He was now heart and soul for the war, knowing thatthere was no other resort, but for battle he did not feel himselffitted. 

Ned introduced Obed as the companion of most of his wanderings, and Obedreceived a warm greeting. Then other men in the great tent came forward, and Ned, surprised, saw that one of them was Urrea, dressed neatly, handsome and smiling. But the boy was glad to see him. 

"Ah, Señor Ned, " he said, "you did not expect that I would get herebefore you. I came by another way, and I have brought information forour leader. "

Ned met the other men in the tent, all destined to become famous in thegreat war, and then he gave in detail once more all that he knew of theMexicans and their plans. Mr. Austin sat on a little camp stool, as helistened, and Ned noticed how pale and weak he looked. The boy's heartsank, and then flamed up again as he thought of Santa Anna. It was hewho had done this. Away from Santa Anna and free from his magnetism hehad a heart full of hatred for him. Yet it depressed him to see Mr. Austin who, good man, was obviously unfit for the leadership of an army, about to enter upon a desperate war against great odds. 

When Ned was excused, and left the tent he found that Smith, Karnes andthe rest of their force had come up. The camp which was more like thatof hunters than of an army, was in joyous mood. Several buffaloes hadbeen killed on the plains and the men had brought them in, quartered. Now they were cooking the meat over great fires, scattered about thegroves. The younger spirits were in boisterous mood. Several groups weresinging, and others were dancing the breakdowns of the border. 

Ned and Obed were joined by the Ring Tailed Panther and then by Urrea. Ned felt the high spirits of the young Texans, but he did not join inthe singing and dancing. He learned from Urrea that Houston would arrivein a day or two with more volunteers from Eastern Texas, and the youngMexican also told him something about San Antonio. 

"Cos has a large force of regular troops, " he said, "but he is alarmed. He did not think that the Texans were in such earnest, and that theywould dare so much. Now, he is barricading the streets and buildingbreastworks. "

The Texans were so resolute and confident that the next day they sent ademand to Cos for his surrender. He would not receive it, and threatenedthat if another white flag appeared he would fire upon it. A day or twolater, Houston and the Eastern Texans arrived, and Ned, Obed, the RingTailed Panther and Urrea planned a daring adventure for the followingnight. They had heard how Cos was fortifying San Antonio, and as theyexpected the Texan army to make an assault they intended to see justwhat he was doing. 

They made their way very cautiously toward the town, left on foot whenthe full dark had come. It was only four miles to San Antonio, and theycould reach the line of Mexican sentinels within an hour. The RingTailed Panther was growling pleasantly between his teeth. He had tiredof inaction. His was a character such as only the rough world of theborder could produce. If he did not live by the sword he lived by therifle, and since childhood he had been in the midst of alarms. Longhabit had made anything else tiresome to him beyond endurance, but hewas by nature generous and kindly. Like Obed he had formed a strongattachment for Ned who appealed to him as a high-souled and generousyouth. 

They made their way very cautiously toward the town, passing byabandoned houses and crossing fields, overgrown with weeds. Both theRing Tailed Panther and Urrea knew San Antonio well, and Obed had beenthere once. They were of the opinion that the town with its narrowstreets, stone and adobe houses was adapted particularly to defense, butit was of the greatest importance to know just where the new outworkswere placed. 

The four came within sight of Mexican lights about nine o'clock. Thetown was in the midst of gently rolling prairies and as nearly as theycould judge these lights--evidently those of camp fires--were about aquarter of a mile from San Antonio. They were three in number andappeared to be two or three hundred yards apart. They watched a littlewhile but they did not see any human outlines passing in front of thefires. 

"They are learnin' caution, " said the Ring Tailed Panther. "They areafraid of the Texan rifles, an' while those fires light up a lot ofground they keep their own bodies back in the shadow. "

"Wise men, " said Obed. 

The Ring Tailed Panther looked his companions in the eye, one by one. 

"We come out here for business, " he said. "What we want to acquire islearnin', learnin' about the new defenses of San Antonio, an' we'd feelcheap if we went back without it. Now, I don't care to feel cheapmyself. Good, careful, quiet fellows could slip between them sentinels, an' get into San Antonio. I mean to do it. Are you game to go with me?"

"I am, " said Urrea, speaking very quickly and eagerly. 

"And I, " said Ned. 

"To turn back is to confess one's weakness, " said Obed. 

The Ring Tailed Panther roared gently, and with satisfaction. 

"That's the talk I like to hear an' expected to hear, " he said. "Youboys ain't afraid of rippin' an' tearin', when it's in a good cause. There's pretty good grass here. We'll just kneel down in it, an' crawl. "

The Panther marked a point about midway between the nearest two lightsand they advanced straight for it on hands and knees, stopping atintervals of a hundred yards or so to rest, as that method of locomotionwas neither convenient nor comfortable. As they drew near to the firesthey saw the sentinels some distance back of them, and entirely in theshadow, pacing up and down, musket on shoulder. The four were now nearenough to have been seen had they been standing erect, but they lay veryclose to the earth, while they conferred a moment or two. 

"There's a patch of bushes between those two sentinels, " whispered theRing Tailed Panther, "an' I think we'd better creep by in its shelter. If either of the sentinels should look suspicious every one of us mustlay flat an' hold his breath. We could handle the sentinels, but what wewant to do is to get into San Antonio. "

They continued their slow and tiresome creeping. Only once did theystop, and then it was because one of the sentinels paused in his walkand took his musket from his shoulder. But it was only to light acigarette and, relieved, they crept on until they were well beyond thefires, and within the ring of sentinels. Then at the signal of the RingTailed Panther they rose to their feet, and stretched their crampedlimbs. 

"It is certainly good, " whispered Obed, "to stand up on two legs againand walk like a man. "

They were now very near to the town and they saw the dark shapes ofhouses, in some of which lights burned. It was the poorer portion of SanAntonio, where the Mexican homes were mostly huts or jacals, made ofadobe, and sometimes of mere mud and wattles. As all the four spokeSpanish, they advanced, confident in themselves, and the protectingshadows of the night. A dog barked at them, but Obed cursed him in good, strong Mexican, and he slunk away. Two peons wrapped to the eyes inserapes passed them but Obed boldly gave them the salutations of thenight and they walked on, not dreaming that the dreaded Texans were by. 

Fifty yards further they saw a long earthwork, with the spades andshovels lying beside it, as if the Mexicans expected to resume workthere in the morning. Toward the north they saw another such defense butthey did not go very near, as Mexican soldiers were camped beside it. But Ned retained a very clear idea of the location of the twoearthworks. 

Then they curved in toward the more important portion of the town, thecenter of which was two large squares, commonly called Main Plaza andMilitary Plaza, separated only by the church of San Fernando. Here weremany houses built heavily of stone in the Spanish style. They had thickwalls and deep embrasured windows. Often they looked like and werefortresses. 

Ned and his comrades were extremely anxious to approach those squares, but the danger was now much greater. They saw barricades on severalimportant streets and many soldiers were passing. They learned from apeon that both the squares and many other open places also were filledwith the tents of the soldiers. 

Ned, Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther having seen so much were eager tosee more, but Urrea hung back. He thought they should return with theinformation they had obtained already, and not risk the loss ofeverything by capture, but the Ring Tailed Panther was determined. 

"I know San Antonio by heart, " he said, "an' there's somethin' I want tosee. Down this street is the house of the Vice-Governor, Veramendi, andI want to see what is going on there. If the rest of you feel that therisk ain't justified you can turn back, but I'm goin' on. "

"If you go I'm going with you, " said Ned. 

"Me, too, " said Obed. 

Urrea shrugged his shoulders. 

"Very well, " he said. "It's against my judgment, but I follow. "

They had pulled their slouch hats down over their faces, in the Mexicanstyle, and they handled their rifles awkwardly, after the fashion ofMexican recruits. The Ring Tailed Panther led boldly down the street, until they came to the stone house of Veramendi. Lights shone from thedeep embrasured windows of both the first and second floors. The RingTailed Panther saw a small door in the stone wall, and he pushed itopen. 

"Come in! Come quick!" he said to his comrades. 

His tone was so sharp and commanding that they obeyed him by impulse, and he quickly closed the door behind the little party. They stood in asmall, dark alley that ran beside the house and they heard the sound ofmusic. Crouching against the wall they listened, and heard also thesounds of laughter and feminine voices. 

The Ring Tailed Panther grinned in the darkness. 

"Some kind of a fandango is goin' on, " he said. "It's just like theMexicans to dance and sing at such a time. I wouldn't be s'prised if Coshimself was here, an' I mean to see. "

He led the way down the little alley, which was roughly paved withstone, and, as they advanced, the sounds of music and laughterincreased. Unquestionably Governor Veramendi was giving a ball, and Neddid not doubt that the Panther's surmise about the presence of Cos wouldprove correct. 

They found a little gate opening from the alley into a large patio orenclosed court. This gate, like the first, was not locked and the RingTailed Panther pushed it open also. The patio was filled with palms, flowering plants and a dense shrubbery. 

The Ring Tailed Panther again led boldly on, and entered the patio, hiding instantly among the palms and flowers. The others followed anddid likewise. Ned quivered with excitement. He knew that the danger wasgreat. He knew also that if they lay close and waited they were likelyto hear what was worth hearing. 

The boy was in a dense mat of shrubbery. To his right was Obed and tohis left were the Ring Tailed Panther and Urrea. He saw that the patiowas faced on three sides by piazzas or porticos, from which wide doorsopened into the house. He heard the music now as clearly as if it wereat his side. It was the music of a full band, and it was played with amellow, gliding rhythm. He saw, also, officers in brilliant uniform andhandsome women, as in the dance they passed and repassed the open doors. It was Spanish, Mexican to the core, full of the South, full of warmthand color. The lean, brown Texans crouching in the shrubbery furnished astriking contrast. 

While they waited, several officers and ladies came out on the piazzas, ate ices and drank sweet drinks. They were so near that the four easilyheard all they said. It was mostly idle chatter, high-pitchedcompliments, allusions to people in the distant City of Mexico, and nowand then a jest at the expense of the Texans. Ned realized that many ofthe younger Mexicans did not take the siege of San Antonio seriously. They could not understand how a strong city, held by an army of Mexicanregulars, could have anything to fear from a few hundred Texanhorsemen, mostly hunters in buckskin. 

The music began again and the officers and women went in, but presentlyseveral older men, also in uniform, came out. Ned instantly recognizedin the first the square figure and the dark, lowering face of Cos. 

"De La Garcia, Ugartchea, Veramendi, " whispered the Ring Tailed Panther, indicating the others. "Now we may hear something. "

Cos stood at the edge of the piazza and his face was troubled. He heldin his hand a small cane, with which he cut angrily at the flowers. Theothers regarded him uneasily, but for a while he said nothing. Nedhardly breathed, so intense was his interest and curiosity, but when Cosat last spoke his disappointment was great. 

The General complimented Veramendi on his house and hospitality, and theVice-Governor thanked him in ornate sentences. Some more courtesies wereexchanged, but Cos continued to cut off the heads of the flowers withhis cane, and Ned knew now that they had come from the ballroom to talkof more important things. Meanwhile, the music flowed on. It was theswaying strains of the dance, and it would have been soothing to anyone, whose mind was not forced elsewhere. The flowers and the palms rippledgently under a light breeze, but Ned did not hear them. He was waitingto hear Cos speak of what was in the mind of himself and the other menon the piazza, the same things that were in the minds of the Texans inthe shrubbery. 

"Have you any further word from the Texan desperadoes, General?" askedVeramendi, at last. 

Swish went the general's cane, and a flower fell from its stem. 

"Nothing direct, " he replied, his voice rising in anger. 

"They have not sent again demanding my surrender knowing that amessenger would be shot. The impudence of these border horsemen passesall belief. How dare a few hundred such men undertake to besiege us herein San Antonio? What an insult to Mexico!"

"But they can fight, " said Ugartchea. "They ride and shoot like demons. They will give us trouble. "

"I know it, " said Cos, "but the more trouble they make us the more theyshall suffer. It was an evil day when the first American was allowed tocome into Texas. "

"Yet they will attack us here, " persisted Ugartchea, "They have drivenour men off the prairies. Our lances are not a match for their rifles. Your pardon, General, but it will be wise for us to fortify stillfurther. "

Cos frowned and made another wicked sweep with the cane. But he said:

"What you say is truth, Colonel Ugartchea, but with qualifications. Ourmen are not a match for them on the open prairie, but should they attackus here in the city they will be destroyed. "

Then he asked further questions about the fortifications, and Ugartchea, who seemed to be in immediate charge, began to repeat the details. Itwas for this that the Texans had come into the patio, and Ned leanedforward eagerly. He saw Obed on one side of him and the Ring TailedPanther on the other do the same. Suddenly there was a noise as ofsomething falling in the shrubbery, and then a sharp whistle. The men onthe piazza instantly looked in the direction of the hidden Texans. Cosand Ugartchea drew pistols. 

The Ring Tailed Panther acted with the greatest promptness and decision. 

"We must run for it, boys, " he exclaimed in a loud whisper. "Something, I don't know what, has happened to warn them that we are here. Keep yourheads low. "

Still partly hidden by the palms and flowers they ran for the gate. Cosand Veramendi fired at the flitting forms and shouted for soldiers. Nedfelt one of the bullets scorch the back of his hand, but in a fewmoments he was out of the gate and in the little dark alley. The RingTailed Panther was just before him, and Obed was just behind. ThePanther, instead of running toward the street continued up the alleywhich led to a large building of adobe, in the rear of the governor'shouse. 

"It's a stable and storehouse, " said the Ring Tailed Panther, "an' we'llhide in it while the hunt roars on through the city. "

He jerked open a door, and they rushed in. Ned in the dusk saw somehorses eating in their stalls, and he also saw a steep ladder leading tolofts above. The Ring Tailed Panther never hesitated, but ran up theladder and Ned followed sharply after him. He heard Obed panting at hisheels. 

The lofts contained dried maize and some vegetables, but they weremostly filled with hay. The fugitives plunged into the hay and pulled itaround them, until only their heads and the muzzles of their riflesprotruded. They lay for a few moments in silence, save for the sound oftheir own hard breathing, and then Ned suddenly noticed something. Theywere only three!

"Why, where is Urrea?" he exclaimed. 

"Yes, where in thunder is Don Francisco?" said the Ring Tailed Pantherin startled tones. 

Urrea was certainly missing, and no one could tell when they had losthim. Their flight had been too hurried to take any count of numbers. There could be only one conclusion. Urrea had been taken in the patio. The Ring Tailed Panther roared between his teeth, low but savagely. 

"I don't like many Mexicans, " he said, "but I got to like Don Francisco. The Mexicans have shorely got him, an' it will go 'specially hard withhim, he bein' of their own race. "

Ned sighed. He did not like to think of Don Francisco at the mercy ofCos. But they could do nothing, absolutely nothing. To leave the haymeant certain capture within a few minutes. Already they heard thesounds of the hunt, the shouts of soldiers and the mob, of men callingto one another. Through the chinks in the wall they saw the light oftorches in the alley. They lay still for a few minutes and then thenoise of the search drifted down toward the plazas. The torches passedout of the alley. 

"Did you hear that whistle just before Cos and Ugartchea fired?" askedNed. 

"I did, " replied Obed. "I don't understand it, and what I don'tunderstand bothers me. "

The Ring Tailed Panther growled, and his growl was the most savage thatNed had ever heard from him. The growl did not turn into words for atleast a minute. Then he said:

"I'm like you, Obed; I hate riddles, an' this is the worst one that Iwas ever mixed up with. Somethin' fell in the shrubbery; then came thewhistle, the Mexicans shot, away we went, lickety split, an' now we'rehere. That's all I know, an' it ain't much. "

"I wonder if we'll ever find out, " said Ned. 

"Doubtful, " replied the Ring Tailed Panther. "I'm afeard, boys, theywon't waste much time on Urrea, he bein' a spy an' of their own blood, too. It's war an' we've got to make the best of it. "

But Ned could not make very well of it. A fugitive hidden there in thehay and the dark, the fate of Urrea seemed very terrible to him. Thethree sank into silence. Occasionally they heard cries from distantparts of the town, but the hunt did not seem to come back toward them. Ned was thankful that the Ring Tailed Panther had been so ready of wit. The Mexicans would not dream that the Texans were hiding in theVice-Governor's own barn, just behind the Vice-Governor's own house. Hemade himself cozy in the hay and waited. 

After about an hour, the town turned quiet, and Ned inferred that thehunt was over. The Mexicans, no doubt, would assume that the three hadescaped from San Antonio, and they would not dare to hunt far out on theprairies. But what of Urrea! Poor Urrea! Ned could not keep fromthinking of him, but think as hard as he could he saw no way to find outabout his fate. Perhaps the Ring Tailed Panther was right. They wouldnever know. 

The three did not stir for a long time. Ned felt very comfortable in thehay. The night was cold without, but here he was snug and warm. Hewaited for those older and more experienced than himself to decide upontheir course and he knew that Obed or the Ring Tailed Panther wouldspeak in time. He was almost in a doze when Obed said that it must beabout one o'clock in the morning. 

"You ain't far wrong, " said the Ring Tailed Panther, "but I'd wait atleast another hour. That ball will be over then, if we didn't break itup when we were in the garden. "

They waited the full hour, and then they stole from the hay. Veramendi's house was silent and dark, and they passed safely into thestreet. Ned had a faint hope that Urrea would yet appear from some darkhiding place, but there was no sign of the young Mexican. 

They chose the boldest possible course, thinking that it would besafest, claiming to one soldier whom they passed that they weresentinels going to their duty at the farthest outposts. Luck, as itusually does, came to the aid of courage and skill, and they reached theoutskirts of San Antonio, without any attempt at interference. 

Once more, after long and painful creeping, they stole between thesentinels, took mental note of the earthworks again, and also a lastlook at the dark bulk that was the town. 

"Poor Urrea!" said Ned. 

"Poor Urrea, " said Obed. "I wonder what in the name of the moon and thestars gave the alarm!"

"Poor Urrea!" said the Ring Tailed Panther. "This is the worst riddle Iever run up ag'inst an' the more I think about it the more riddlin' itgets. "

The three sighed together and then sped over the prairie toward the campon the Salado. 

CHAPTER XIX

THE BATTLE BY THE RIVER

It was not yet daylight when they approached the Texan camp. Despite thefact that the Texan force was merely a band of volunteer soldiers therewas an abundance of sentinels and they were halted when they were withina half mile of the Salado. But they were recognized quickly, and theypassed within the lines, where, in the first rosy shoot of the dawn, they saw Bowie going the rounds of the outposts. 

"What!" he exclaimed. "Back already! Then you did not get into thetown!"

"We went right into it. We split it wide open, " said the Ring TailedPanther. 

Bowie's blue eyes glittered. 

"But you are only three, " he said. "Where is Urrea?"

"We lost him an' we don't know how it happened. We know that he's gone, an' that's all. "

Bowie took them to Mr. Austin's tent, where they told to him, Houston, Fannin and the others all that they had seen in San Antonio. In view ofthe fact, now clearly proved, that Cos was fortifying night and day, Bowie and all the more ardent spirits urged a prompt attack, but Mr. Austin, essentially a man of peace, hung back. He thought their forcetoo small. He was confirmed, too, in the belief of his own unfitness tobe a leader in war. 

"General, " he said, turning to Houston, "you must take the command here. It would be impossible to find one better suited to the place. "

But Houston shook his head. He would not agree to it. Able andambitious, he refused, nevertheless. Perhaps he did not yet understandthe full fighting power of the Texans, and he feared to be identifiedwith failure, in case they made the assault upon San Antonio. 

When Ned and his comrades withdrew from the tent they went to one of thebreakfast fires, where they ate broiled strips of buffalo and deer, anddrank coffee. Then Ned rolled in his blankets, and slept under an oaktree. When he awoke about noon he sprang to his feet with a cry of joyand surprise. Urrea was standing beside him, somewhat pale, and with hisleft hand in a sling, but the young Mexican himself, nevertheless. Nedseized his right hand and gave it a powerful grip. 

"We thought you as good as dead, Don Francisco, " he said. "We were surethat you had been taken by Cos. "

"I thought both things myself for a few wild moments, " said Urrea, smiling. "When we rushed from the patio one of the bullets grazed me, but in my excitement as we passed the gate I ran down the alley towardthe street, instead of turning in toward the barn, as I have sincelearned from Mr. White that you did. My wrist was grazed by one of thebullets, fired from the piazza, but fortunately I had the presence ofmind to wrap it in the serape that I wore. 

"When I reached the street there was much excitement and many soldiersrunning about, but being a Mexican it was easy for me to passunsuspected in the crowd. I reached the home of a relative, at heart asympathizer with Texas and liberty, where my wound was bound up, andwhere I lay hidden until morning, when I was smuggled out of the town. Then I made my way among the oaks and pecans, until I came here to ourcamp on the Salado. I had inquired for you during the night, and, nothearing any news of your capture, I was sure that you were in hiding asI was, and when I came here my best hopes were confirmed by the news ofyour complete escape. Mr. White has already given me all the details. Wehave been very lucky indeed, and we should be thankful. "

"We are! We truly are!" exclaimed Ned, grasping his hand again. 

The news brought by Ned and his comrades was so important that theTexans could not be restrained. A few mornings later Bowie called uponthe boy, Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther for a new service. 

"Mr. Austin has told me to take a strong party, " he said, "and scout upto the very suburbs of San Antonio, because we are going to choose a newand closer position. There are to be ninety of us, including you three, 'Deaf' Smith and Henry Karnes, and we are to retire if the Mexicansundertake an attack upon us, that is, if we have time--you understand, if we have time. "

Ned saw Bowie's big eyes glitter, and he understood. The party, the envyof all the others, rode out of the camp in the absence of Urrea. Bowiehad not asked him, as he did not seem to fancy the young Mexican, butNed put it down to racial prejudice. Urrea had not been visible whenthey started, but Ned thought chagrin at being ignored was the cause ofit. Fannin also went along, associated with Bowie in the leadership, butBowie was the animating spirit. They rode directly toward San Antonio, and, as the distance was very short, they soon saw Mexican sentinels onhorseback, some carrying lances and some with rifles or muskets. Theywould withdraw gradually at the appearance of the Texans, keeping justout of gunshot, but always watching these dangerous horsemen whom theyhad learned to fear. The Texans were near enough to see from some pointsthe buildings of the town, and the veins of the Ring Tailed Pantherswelled with ambition. 

"Ned, " he said to the boy who rode by his side, "if Bowie would onlygive the word we would gallop right into town, smashing through theMexicans. "

"We might gallop into it, " said Ned, laughing, "but we couldn't gallopout again. No, no, Panther, we mustn't forget that the Mexicans canfight. Besides, Bowie isn't going to give the word. "

"No, he ain't, " said the Ring Tailed Panther with a sigh, "an' we won'tget the chance to make one of the finest dashes ever heard of in war. "

"He who doesn't dash but rides away will live to dash another day, " saidObed White oracularly. 

They rode on in a half circle about the town, keeping a fairly closearray, every man sitting his saddle erect and defiant. It seemed to Nedthat they were issuing a challenge to the whole army of Cos, and heenjoyed it. It appealed to his youthful spirit of daring. Theypractically said to the Mexican army in the town: "Come out and fight usif you dare!"

But the Mexicans did not accept the challenge. Save for the littlescouting parties that always kept a watch at a safe distance theyremained within their intrenchments. But Bowie and Fannin were able totake a look at the fortifications, confirming in every respect all thatNed and his comrades had told them. 

They ate in the saddle at noon, having provided themselves with rationswhen they started, and then rode back on their slow half circle aboutthe town, Mexican scouts riding parallel with them on the inner side ofthe circle, five hundred yards away. The Texans said little, but theywatched all the time. 

It made a powerful appeal to Ned, who had been a great reader, and whosemind was surcharged with the old romances. It seemed to him that hiscomrades and he were like knights, riding around a hostile city andissuing a formal challenge to all who dared to meet them. He was proudto be there in such company. The afternoon waned. Banks of vapor, roseand gold, began to pile up in the southwest, their glow tinting theearth with the same colors. But beauty did not appeal just then to theRing Tailed Panther, who began to roar. 

"A-ridin', an' a-ridin', " he said, "an' nothin' done. Up to San Antonioan' back to camp, an' things are just as they were before. "

"A Texas colonel rode out on the prairie with ninety men, and then rodeback again, " said Obed. 

"But we are not going back again!" cried Ned joyfully. 

Bowie, who was in the lead, suddenly turned his horse away from the campand rode toward the river. The others followed him without a word, butnearly every man in the company drew a long breath of satisfaction. Nedknew and all knew that they were not going back to camp that night. 

Ned eagerly watched the leader. They rode by the Mission Concepcion, passed through a belt of timber and came abruptly to the river, whereBowie called a halt, and sprang from his horse. Ned leaped down also, and he saw at once the merits of the position into which Bowie had ledthem. They were in a horseshoe or sharp bend of the river, here ahundred yards in width. The belt of thick timber curved on one sidewhile the river coiled in a half-circle about them and in front of thelittle tongue of land on which they stood, the bank rose to a height ofeighteen feet, almost perpendicular. It was a secluded place, and, as noMexicans had been following them in the course of the last hour, Nedbelieved that they might pass a peaceful night there. But the RingTailed Panther had other thoughts, although, for the present, he keptthem to himself. 

They tethered the horses at the edge of the wood, but where they couldreach the grass, and then Bowie placed numerous pickets in the woodthrough which an enemy must come, if he came. Ned was in the first watchand Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther were with him. Ned stood among thetrees at a point where he could also see the river, here a beautiful, clear stream with a greenish tint. He ate venison from his knapsack ashe walked back and forth, and he watched the last rays of the sun, burning like red fire in the west, until they went out and the heavytwilight came, trailing after it the dark. 

Ned's impression of mediævalism that he had received in the day whenthey were riding about San Antonio continued in the night. They had goneback centuries. Hidden here in this horseshoe, water on one side andwood on the other, they seemed to be in an absolutely wild and primitiveworld. Centuries had rolled back. His vivid imagination made the forestabout them what it had been before the white man came. 

The surface of the river was now dark. The stream flowed gently, andwithout noise. It, too, struck upon the boy's imagination. It would befitting for an Indian canoe to come stealing down in the darkness, andhe almost fancied he could see it there. But no canoe came, and Nedwalked back and forth in a little space, always watching the wood or theriver. 

The night was very quiet. The horses, having grazed for an hour or two, now rested content. The men not on guard, used to taking their sleepwhere they could find it, were already in slumber. There was no wind. 

The dark hours as usual were full of chill, but Ned's vigorous walk backand forth kept him warm. He was joined after a while by the famousscout, Henry Karnes, who, like "Deaf" Smith, seemed to watch all thetime, although he came and went as he pleased. 

"Well, boy, " said Karnes, "do you find it hard work, this watching andwatching and watching for hours and hours?"

"Not at all, " replied Ned, responding to his tone of humorous kindness. "I might have found it so once, but I don't now. I'm always anxious tosee what will happen. "

"That's a good spirit to have, " said Karnes, smiling, "and you need itdown here, where a man must always be watching for something. In Texasboys have to be men now. "

He walked back and forth with Ned, and the lad felt flattered that sofamous a scout should show an interest in him. The two were at the edgeof the wood and they could see duskily before them a stretch of bareprairie. Karnes was watching this open space intently, and Ned waswatching it also. 

The boy saw nothing, but suddenly he heard, or thought he heard, a lowsound. It was faint, but, unconsciously bending forward a little, heheard it again. It was a metallic rattle and instantly he called theattention of Karnes to it. The scout stopped his walk and listened. ThenNed saw his form grow rigid and tense. 

"Let's put our ears to the ground, Ned, " said he. 

The two stretched out ear to earth, and then Ned not only heard thenoise much more distinctly, but he knew at once what it was. He hadheard it more than once in the marching army of Cos. It was the soundmade by the approaching wheel of a cannon. 

"Artillery, " he said in a whisper. 

"Beyond a doubt, " said Karnes. "It means that the Mexicans have crossedthe river--there's a ford two or three hundred yards above--and mean toattack us. It was your good ear, Ned, that gave us the first warning. "

Ned flushed with pleasure at the compliment, but, a moment or two later, they saw dark figures rising out of the prairie and advancing towardthem. 

"Mexicans!" cried Karnes, and instantly fired at a dusky outline. Thefigures flitted away in the dusk, but the camp of Bowie was aroused atonce. Inside of a minute every man was on his feet, rifle in hand, facing the open place in the horseshoe. They knew that they could not beattacked from the river. Bowie came to the side of Ned and Karnes. 

"What is it?" he asked. 

"Ned heard a sound, " Karnes replied, "and when we put our ears to theearth we knew that it was made by artillery. Then I saw their scouts andskirmishers and fired upon them. They must have crossed the river instrong force, Colonel. "

"Very likely, " said Bowie. "Well, we shall be ready for them. Henry, youand Smith and the Ring Tailed Panther scout across the prairie there, and see what has become of them. "

"Can't I go, too?" asked Ned. 

Bowie patted him on the shoulder. 

"You young fire eater!" he replied. "Haven't you done enough for onenight? You gave us the first warning that the Mexicans were at hand. Ithink you'd better rest now, and let these old boys do this job. "

The three chosen men disappeared in the darkness, and Ned sat down amongthe trees with Obed. They, like everybody else, waited as patiently asthey could for the reports of the scouts. 

"Obed, " said Ned, "do you think we're going to have a battle?"

"The signs point that way. "

Bowie set everybody to work cutting out undergrowth, in order that theymight have a clear field for the work that they expected. By the timethis task was completed the scouts returned and their report wasalarming. 

The Mexicans had crossed the river in heavy force, outnumbering thetroop of Texans at least five to one. They had artillery, infantry andcavalry, and they were just out of range, expecting to attack at dawn. The avenue of escape was cut off already. 

"Very good, " said Bowie. "We'll wait for them. "

It was too dark to see, but Ned knew that his blue eyes were glittering. He advanced to the point where the bluff rose nearly ten feet to theedge of the prairie, and took a long look. 

"I can see nothing, " he said, "but I know you men are right. Now we'llcut steps all along the edge of this bluff, in order that our men canstand in them, and fire at the enemy as he comes. Then we'll have asfine a fort here as anybody could ask. "

The men fell to work with hatchets and big knives, cutting steps in thesoft earth, at least a hundred of them in order that everybody mighthave a chance. Meanwhile the hour of dawn was at hand, but a heavy misthad thickened over prairie and river. Beyond the mists and vapors, thesun showed only a yellow blur, and it did not yet cast any glow over theearth. 

But Ned could clearly hear the Mexicans; officers shouting to men; menshouting to horses; horses neighing and mules squealing, and he knewfrom these noises that the report of their great force by the scouts wascorrect. He also heard the clank of the artillery wheels again, and hefeared that the cannon would prove a very dangerous foe to them. All thepulses in his body began to beat fast and hard. 

"Will the sun ever get through the fog and let us see?" he exclaimedimpatiently. It was hard to wait at such a time. 

"It's comin' through now, " said the Ring Tailed Panther. 

The pale yellow light turned suddenly to full red gold. The banks ofmist and vapor dissolved under the shining beams, and floated away inshreds and patches. The river, the forest and the prairie rose up intothe light, everything standing out, sharp and clear. 

Ned drew a deep breath. There was the Mexican array, massed along theentire open space of the horseshoe, at least five to the Texan one, asthe scouts had said, and now not more than two hundred yards from them. Five companies of cavalry were gathered ready to charge; infantry stoodjust behind them and back of the infantry Ned caught the gleam of thecannon he had heard in the night. Evidently the Mexicans had not yetbrought it to the front, because its fire would interfere with thecharge of the cavalry which they expected would end the battle in fiveminutes. There was no chance for the Texans to retreat, but it was notof retreat that they were thinking. 

"How's your pulse, Ned?" asked the Ring Tailed Panther. 

"It's beating fast and hard, I won't deny that, " replied Ned, "but Ibelieve my finger will be steady when it presses the trigger. "

"Fine feathers make fine Mexicans, " said Obed White. "How they do lovecolor! That's a gorgeous array out there, and it seems a pity to breakit up. "

The Mexican force certainly looked well. The cavalry, in brilliantuniforms, presented a long front, their lances gleaming. The Texans, standing in the steps that they had cut in the earth, were in soberattire, but resolute eyes looked out from under their caps or the widebrims of their hats. 

"They'll charge in a moment, " said Obed, "and they'll try to break theirway through the wood. They cannot ride down this bluff. "

The Ring Tailed Panther raised his rifle, and looked down the sights. His eyes were glittering. He drew the trigger and the sharp lashingreport ended the silence. A Mexican officer fell from his horse, andthen, with a great shout, the Mexican horsemen charged, presenting agallant array as they bent forward, their rifles and lances ready. Thebeat of their horses' hoofs came over the prairie like roiling thunder. They wheeled suddenly toward the wood, and then the infantry, advancing, opened heavy and repeated volleys upon the Texans. The horsemen alsofired from their saddles. 

It was the heaviest fire under which Ned had ever come, and, for a fewmoments, he quivered all over. He saw a great blaze in front, above it acloud of lifting smoke, and he heard over his head the hum of manybullets, like the whistling of hail, driven by a heavy wind. But he wasexperienced enough now to note that the Mexican fire was wasted. Thatbank was a wonderful protection. 

"It's almost a shame to shoot 'em, " roared the Ring Tailed Panther whohad reloaded. But up went his rifle, his finger pressed the trigger andanother Mexican officer fell from his horse. All along the Texan frontran the rifle fire, a rapid crackling sound like the ripping apart ofsome great cloth. But the Texans were taking aim. There was no confusionamong the hardy veterans of the plains. Lying against the face of thebluff they were sending in their bullets with deadly precision. Horseafter horse in the charging host galloped away riderless over theprairie, and the front rank of the infantry was shot down. 

Ned, like the others, was loading and firing swiftly, but with care. Theimminent danger kept down any feeling that he would have had otherwise. The Mexicans sought their lives, and he must seek theirs. The smoke andthe odor of burned gunpowder inflamed him. There was still a blaze infront of him, but he also saw the brown faces of the Mexicans yetpressing forward, and he yet heard the continued thunder of the charginghoofs. 

"Another bullet, Ned, " roared the Ring Tailed Panther and he and theothers around him sent a fresh volley at the horsemen. The Mexicancavalry could stand no more. Five companies strong, they broke andgalloped away, seeking only to escape from the deadly fire of the Texanrifles. The infantry also gave back and for a few minutes there was alull. 

"That's the end of Chapter One, " said Obed White. "Our Mexican friendscame in haste and they will repent at a distance. "

The smoke lifted and Ned saw many fallen, both men and horses, on theplain in front of them, and there was confusion in the Mexican force, which was now out of gunshot. Never had the Texan rifles done moredeadly service. The Texan loss was small. 

Ned dropped down from the steps and sat on the grass. His face was wetwith perspiration, and he wiped it on his sleeve. He was compelled tocough once or twice to clear his throat of the smoke. The Ring TailedPanther also was warm, but satisfied. 

"A Texan does best in a fight against odds, " he said, "an' we have theodds to-day. But don't you think, Ned, that it's over already?"

"I don't, " said Ned. "I know that they will be up to some new tricksoon. They will realize that they underrated us at first. "

He sprang back into the steps that he had cut in the bluff, and took agood look at the Mexicans. 

"They are nearly ready with Chapter Second, Obed, " he said. "They arebringing up that cannon. "

"Should have used it in the first place, " said the Ring Tailed Panther. "They didn't show much sense. "

The Mexicans were running the gun forward to a little mound, whence theycould drop shells and shot over the edge of the bluff, directly amongthe Texans. It was a far more formidable danger than the impulsivecharge, and Bowie at once took measures to meet it. He called the bestrifle shots. Among them were Ned, Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther. 

"There are fifteen of you, " said the dauntless leader, "and your rifleswill reach that gun. Shoot down every man who tries to handle it. Therest of us will attend to the new charge that is coming. "

The second attack was to be more formidable than the first. The Mexicancavalry had massed anew. Ned saw the officers, driving the men intoplace with the flats of swords, and he heard the note of a trumpet, singing loud and clear over the prairie. Then his eyes turned back tothe gun, because there his duty lay. 

Ned heard the trumpet peal again, and then the thud of hoofs. He saw therammers and spongers gather about the gun. The rifle of the Ring TailedPanther cracked, and the man with the rammer fell. Another picked it up, but he went down before the bullet of Obed. Then a sponger fell, andthen the gunner himself was slain by the bullet. The Texans were doingwonderful sharpshooting. The gun could not be fired, because nobodycould live near it long enough to fire it. Its entire complement wascleared away by the swift little bullets. 

Off to right and left, Ned heard again the rising crackle of the riflefire, and he also heard the steady monotonous beat of the hoofs. He knewthat the charge was still coming on, but Bowie would attend to that. Heand his immediate comrades never took their eyes from the gun. Newcannoneers, an entire complement, were rushing forward to take the placeof their fallen comrades. The Mexicans showed plenty of courage thatday but the deadly sharpshooters were slaying them as fast as they came. They were yet unable to fire the gun. Nor could they draw it back fromits dangerous position. A second time all about it were slain, but athird body came forward for the trial. 

"Greasers or no greasers, " cried Obed, "those are men of courage!"

But he continued to shoot straight at them nevertheless, and the thirdgroup of cannoneers was fast melting away. 

"Some of you aim at the mules hitched to the caisson, " cried the RingTailed Panther. "I hate to kill a mule, but it will be a help now. "

One of the mules was slain and two others, wounded, dashed wildlythrough the Mexican infantry, adding to the confusion and turmoil. Thelast of the third group of cannoneers fell and the gun stood alone anduntouched, the shell still in place. No one now dared to approach it. The dead now lay in a group all about it. Meanwhile, the second chargebroke like the first and the cavalry galloped wildly away. 

Ned could turn his eyes now. He saw more riderless horses than before, while the fallen, lying still on the prairie, had doubled in number. Then his eyes turned back to the gun, standing somber and silent amongthose who had died for it. The battle-fire gone, for the present, Nedfelt pity for the Mexicans who lay so thick about the cannon. Nor did hefail to admire the courage that had been spent so freely, but in vain. 

"They won't come again, " said the Ring Tailed Panther, dropping to thegrass. "They have had enough. "

"I don't blame 'em, " said Obed, lying down by his side. "They must havelost a third of their number, and they'd have lost another third if theyhad charged once more. "

"They're not going away, " said Ned, who had remained on his perch. "They're coming again. "

A third time the Mexicans charged and a third time they were driven backby the rifles. Then they formed on the prairie beyond gunshot, andmarched away to San Antonio, leaving behind the mournful and silentcannon as proof alike of their courage and defeat. 

CHAPTER XX

THE WHEEL OF FIRE

Ned watched the Mexicans marching away until the last lance haddisappeared behind a swell of the prairie. Then he joined in the cheerthat the Texans gave, after which he and his comrades went out upon thefield, and gazed upon their work. The killed among the Mexicans nearlyequaled in numbers the whole Texan force, sixteen lying dead around thecannon alone, and many of them also had been wounded, while the Texanshad escaped with only a single man slain, and but few hurt. But Nedquickly left the field. The sight of it was not pleasant to him, although he was still heart and soul with the Texans, in what heregarded as a defensive war. 

Bowie drew his forces out of the horseshoe and they rode for the Texancamp, carrying with them the trophies of arms that they had taken. Ontheir way they met Mr. Austin and a strong force who had heard of theirplight and who were now coming to their relief. They, too, rejoicedgreatly at the victory, and all went back in triumph to the Salado. 

"Now that they have seen how we can fight I reckon that Mr. Austin andHouston will order an attack right away on San Antonio, " said the RingTailed Panther. 

"I don't believe they will, " said Obed White. "Seeing is sometimesdoubting. I believe that they still fear our failure. "

Ned inclined to Obed's belief but he said nothing. At twilight Urreacame back, rejoicing and also full of regrets. He rejoiced over thevictory and he regretted that he had not been there. 

"Seems to me, Don Francisco, " said the Ring Tailed Panther, "that you'remissin' a lot of things. "

"There's many a slip 'twixt Francisco and the fight-o, " said Obed. 

Ned was hurt by the irony of his friends, but Urrea only laughed as hespread his blanket in a good place, and lay down on it. 

"I will admit, gentlemen, " he said in his precise English, "that I seemalways to be absent when anything important happens, but it is owing tothe nature of the service that I can best render the Texans. Being ofthe Mexican race and knowing the country so thoroughly, I am of mostvalue as a seeker after information. I had gone off on a long scoutabout San Antonio, and I have news which I have given to Mr. Austin. "

"Spyin' is a dangerous business, but it's got to be done, " said the RingTailed Panther. Ned saw that he again looked with disfavor upon Urrea, but he ascribed it as before to racial aversion. 

Obed was right. Despite the brilliant victory of Bowie, Houston andAustin still held back, and the Ring Tailed Panther roared long andloud. But his roaring was cut short by an order for him, Obed, Ned andUrrea to ride eastward to some of the little Texan towns in search ofhelp. The leaders were anxious that their utmost strength be gatheredwhen they should at last make the attack upon San Antonio. Since hecould not have just what he wished, the Panther was glad to get the newtask, and the others were content. 

They rode away the next morning, armed and provisioned well. Theirhorses, having rested long and fed abundantly, were strong and fresh, and they went at a good pace, until they came to the last swell fromwhich they could see San Antonio. The town was distant, but it wasmagnified in the clear Texas sunlight. It looked to Ned, sitting thereon his horse, like a large city. It had come to occupy a great place inhis mind and just now it was to him the most important town in theworld. He wondered if they would ever take it. Urrea, who was watchinghim, smiled. 

"I know what you are thinking, " he said, "and I will wager that it wasjust the same that I was thinking. "

"I was trying to read the future and tell whether we would take SanAntonio, " said Ned. 

"Exactly. Those were my thoughts, too. "

"I reckon you two wasn't far away from my trail either, " said the RingTailed Panther, "'cause I was figgerin' that we'd take it inside of amonth. "

"Count me in, too, " said Obed. "Great minds go in bunches. I wascalculating that we would capture it some day, but I left out the limitof time. "

They turned their horses, and when they reached the crest of the nextswell San Antonio was out of sight. Before them stretched the prairies, now almost as desolate as they had been when the Indians alone roamedover them. They passed two or three small cabins, each built in acluster of trees near a spring, but the occupants had gone, fled to atown for shelter. One seemed to have been abandoned only an hour or twoago, as the ashes were scarcely cold on the hearth, and a bucket ofwater, with its gourd in it, still stood on the shelf. The sight movedthe Ring Tailed Panther to sentiment. 

"Think of the women an' children havin' to sleep out on the prairie, " hesaid. "It ain't right an' fittin'. "

"We'll bring them all back before we are through, " said Obed. 

They left the little cabin, exactly as they had found it, and then rodeat an increased pace toward the north and the east, making for thesettlements on the Brazos. A little while before nightfall, they met abuffalo hunter who told them there were reports of a Mexican cavalryforce far north of San Antonio, although he could not confirm the truthof the rumors. Urrea shook his head vigorously. 

"Impossible! impossible!" he said. "The Mexicans would not dare to comeaway so far from their base at San Antonio. "

The hunter, an old man, looked at him with curiosity and disapproval. 

"That's more than you an' me can say, " he said, "although you be aMexican yourself and know more about your people than I do. I jest tellwhat I've heard. "

"Mr. Urrea is one of the most ardent of the Texan patriots, " said Ned. 

"I jest tell what I've heard, " said the old man, whistling to his ponyand riding away. 

"Obstinate!" said Urrea, laughing in his usual light, easy manner. "These old hunters are very narrow. You cannot make them believe that aMexican, although born on Texas soil, which can be said of very fewTexans, is a lover of liberty and willing to fight against aggressionfrom the capital. "

At night they rode into a splendid belt of forest, and made their campby a cool spring that gushed from a rock and flowed away among thetrees. Ned and Obed scouted a little, and found the country so wild thatthe deer sprang up from the bushes. It was difficult to resist thetemptation of a shot, but they were compelled to let them go, andreturning to camp they reported to Urrea and the Ring Tailed Pantherthat they seemed to have the forest to themselves, so far as humanbeings were concerned. 

"Do you think it is safe to light a fire?" asked Urrea. 

"I see no danger in it, " replied Obed, "that is, none in a little one. There are so many bushes about us that it couldn't be seen fifty yardsaway. "

It was now November and as the night had become quite cold Urrea'ssuggestion of a fire seemed good to Ned. He showed much zeal ingathering the dry wood, and then they deftly built a fire, one thatwould throw out little flame, but which would yet furnish much heat. TheRing Tailed Panther, who had the most skill in wilderness life, kindledit with flint and steel, and while the flames, held down by brush, madehot coals beneath, the smoke was lost among the trees and the darkness. 

The horses were tethered near, and they warmed their food by the coalsbefore eating it. The place was snug, a little cup set all around bybushes and high trees, and the heat of the fire was very grateful. WhileNed sat before it, eating his food, he noticed great numbers of lastyear's fallen leaves lying about, and he picked the very place where hewould make his bed. He would draw great quantities of the leaves thereunder the big beech, and spread his blankets upon them. 

They were tired after the long day's journey, and they did not talkmuch. The foliage about them was so thick, making it so dark within thelittle shade that the need of a watch seemed small, but they decided tokeep it, nevertheless. The Ring Tailed Panther would take the first halfof the night and Urrea the second half. The next night would be dividedbetween Obed and Ned. 

Ned raked up the leaves at the place that he had selected, foldedhimself between his blankets, and was asleep in five minutes. The lastthing that he remembered seeing was the broad figure of the Ring TailedPanther, sitting with his back against a tree, and his rifle across hisknees. 

But Ned awoke hours later--after midnight in fact--although it was not areal awakening, instead a sort of half way station from slumberland. Hedid not move, but opened his eyes partly, and saw that Urrea was now onguard. The young Mexican was not sitting as the Ring Tailed Panther hadbeen, but was standing some yards away, with his rifle across hisshoulder. Ned thought in a vague way that he looked trim and strong, andthen his heavy lids dropped down again. But he did not fall back intothe deep sleep from which he had come. The extra sense, his remarkablepower of intuition or divination was at work. Without any effort of hiswill the mechanism of his brain was moving and gave him a signal. Heheard a slight noise and he lifted the heavy lids. 

Urrea had walked to the other side of the little glade, his feetbrushing some of the dry leaves as he went. There was nothing unusual insuch action on the part of a sentinel, but something in Urrea's attitudeseemed to Ned to denote expectancy. His whole figure was drawn closetogether like that of one about to spring, and he leaned forward alittle. Yet this meant nothing. Any good man on guard would be attentiveto every sound of the forest, whether the light noise made by asquirrel, as he scampered along the bark of a tree, or a stray puff ofwind rustling the leaves. 

Ned made another effort of the will, and closed his eyes for the secondtime, but the warning sense, the intuitive note out of the infinite, would not be denied. He was compelled to open his eyes once more andnow his faculties were clear. Urrea had moved again and now he wasfacing the sleepers. He regarded them attentively, one by one, and inthe dusk he could not see that Ned's eyelids were not closed. The boydid not stir, but a cold shiver ran down his spine. He felt with all thepower of second sight that something extraordinary was going to happen. 

Urrea walked to the smoldering fire, and now Ned dropped his eyelids, until he looked only through a space as narrow as the edge of a knifeblade. Urrea stooped and took from the dying heap a long stick, stillburning at the end. Then he took another look at the three and suddenlydisappeared among the bushes, carrying with him the burning stick. Hewas so light upon his feet that he made no sound as he went. 

Ned was startled beyond measure, but he was like a spring released by akey. He felt that the need of instant action was great, and, as light offoot as Urrea himself, he sprang up, rifle in hand, and followed theyoung Mexican. He was thankful for the wilderness training that he hadbeen compelled to acquire. He caught sight of Urrea about twenty yardsahead, still moving swiftly on soundless feet. He moved thus a hundredyards or more, with Ned, as his shadow, as dark and silent as he, andthen he stopped by the side of a great tree. 

Ned felt instinctively, when Urrea halted that he would look back to seeif by chance he were followed, and he sank down in the bushes before theMexican turned. Urrea gave only a glance or two in that direction and, satisfied, began to examine the tree which was certainly worthy ofattention, as it rose to an uncommon height, much above its fellows. 

Ned's amazement grew. Why should Urrea be so particular about the sizeor height of a tree? It grew still further, when he saw Urrea lay hisrifle down at the foot of the tree, spring up, grasp the lowest branchwith one hand, and then deftly draw himself up, taking with him theburning stick. He paused a moment on the bough, looked again toward thelittle camp and then climbed upward with a speed and dexterity worthy ofa great monkey. 

Ned saw the Mexican's figure going up and up, a dark blur against thestem of the tree, and it was hard to persuade himself that it wasreality. He saw also the bright spark on the end of the stick that hecarried with him. The tree rose to a height of nearly 150 feet, and whenUrrea passed above the others that surrounded it, the moon's rays, unobstructed, fell upon him. Then, although he became smaller andsmaller, Ned saw him more clearly. The boy was so much absorbed now inthe story that was unfolding before him that he did not have time towonder. 

Urrea went up as high as the stem would sustain him. Then he rested hisfeet on a bough, wrapped his left arm around the tree, and, with hisright arm, began to whirl the burning stick rapidly. The spark leapedup, grew into a blaze, and Ned saw a wheel of fire. He had seen manystrange things, but this, influenced by circumstances of time and place, was the most uncanny of them all. 

Far above his head, and above the body of the forest revolved the wheelof fire. Urrea's own body had melted away in the darkness, until it wasfused with the tree. Ned now saw only the fiery signal, for such it mustbe, and his heart rose in fierce anger against Urrea. Once he lifted hisrifle a little, and studied the possibilities of a shot at such range, but he put the rifle down again. He would watch and wait. 

The wheel ceased presently to revolve, and Ned saw Urrea again, torch inhand, but motionless. He, too, was waiting. He did not stir for a fullquarter of an hour, but all the while the torch burned steadily. Then hesuddenly began to whirl it again, but in a direction opposite to thatmade by the first wheel of fire. Around and around went the burningbrand for some minutes. When he stopped, he waited at least ten minuteslonger. Then, as if he had received the answer that he wished, makingthe claim of communication complete, he dropped the torch. Ned saw itfalling, a trail of light, until it struck among the bushes, where itwent out. Then Urrea began to descend the tree, but he came down moreslowly than he had gone up. 

Ned slipped forward, seized Urrea's rifle, and then slipped back amongthe bushes. He put the Mexican's weapon at his feet, cocked his own andwaited. 

Urrea, coming slowly down the tree, stopped and stood there for a fewmoments as if in contemplation. A shaft of moonlight piercing throughthe foliage fell upon his face illumining the olive complexion and thewell-cut features. It was hard for Ned to believe what he had seen. Whatcould it be but a signal? and that signal to the enemies of the Texans!And yet Urrea did not look like a villain and traitor. There wascertainly no malevolence in his face, which on the other hand had rathera melancholy cast, as he stood there on the bough before swinging to theground. 

Ned strengthened his will. He had seen what he had seen. Such thingscould not be passed over in times when lives were the forfeit ofweakness. Urrea let himself lightly to the earth, and stooped down forhis rifle. It was not there, and when he straightened up again Ned sawthat his face was ghastly pale in the moonlight. Urrea, with his quickperceptions, was bound to know from the absence of the rifle that he hadbeen followed and was caught. His hand went down toward his belt where apistol hung, but Ned instantly called from the bush:

"Hands up, Don Francisco, or I shoot!"

His tone was stern and menacing, and Urrea's hands went up by the sideof his head. But the paleness left his face, and his manner becamecareless and easy. 

"Is that you, Ned?" he called in the most friendly tones. "Is it a jokethat you play upon me? Ah, you Anglo-Saxons, you seem rough in your playto us Latins. "

"It is no joke, Don Francisco. I was never more earnest in my life, "said Ned, stepping from the bush, but still keeping Urrea covered withhis rifle. "Your merits as a climber of trees are great, but youinterested me more with your wheel of fire. I think I can account nowfor your absences, when any fighting with the Mexicans was to be done. You are a spy and you were signaling with that torch to our enemies. "

Urrea laughed lightly, musically, and he regarded Ned with a look ofamusement. It seemed to say to him that he was only a boy, that one soyoung was bound to make mistakes, but that the Mexican was not offendedbecause he was making one now at his cost. The laugh was irritating tothe last degree, and yet it implanted in the boy's mind a doubt, a fearthat he might have been mistaken. 

"Signaling to friends, not enemies, you mean, " said Urrea. "This forestends but a few hundred yards beyond, and I learned when I was scoutingabout San Antonio that some allies of ours in this region were waitingnight and day for the news from us to come. I took this method tocommunicate with them, a successful method, too, I am happy to say, asthey answered. In a wild region one must do strange things. "

His tone was so light, so easy, and it rang so true that Ned hesitated. But it was only for a moment. Manner could not change substance. Hecleared away the mists and vapors made by Urrea's light tone and easyassurance, and came back to the core of the matter. 

"Don Francisco, " he said, "I have liked you, and I believed that youwere a true Texan patriot, but I cannot believe the story that you tellme. It seems too improbable. If you wished to make these signals tofriends, why did you not tell us that you were going to do so?"

"I did not know of the possibility of such a signal until I saw thistree and its great height. Then, as all of you were asleep, I concludedto make my signal, achieve the result and give you a pleasant surprise. Come now, Señor Edward, hand me my rifle, and let us end this unpleasantjoke. "

Ned shook his head. It was hard to resist Urrea's assurance, but mannerwas not all. His logical mind rejected the story. 

"I'm sorry, Don Francisco, " he said, "but I must refer this to mycomrades, Mr. Palmer and Mr. White. Meanwhile, I am compelled to holdyou a prisoner. You will walk before me to the camp, keeping your handsup. "

Urrea shrugged his shoulders and gave Ned a glance, which seemed to be amixture of disgust and contempt. 

"Very well, if you will have it so, " he said. "There is nothing like thestubbornness of a boy. "

"March!" said Ned, who felt his temper rising. 

Urrea, hands up, walked toward the camp, and Ned came behind him, carrying the two rifles, one of them cocked and ready for instant use. The Mexican never looked back, but walked with unhesitating stepstraight to the camp. The Ring Tailed Panther and Obed were still soundasleep, but, when Ned called sharply to them, they sprang to their feet, gazing in astonishment at the spectacle of Urrea with his hands up, andthe boy standing behind him with the two rifles. 

"Things seem to have happened while I slept, " said Obed. 

"Looks as if there might have been some rippin' an' tearin', " said theRing Tailed Panther. "What have you been up to, Urrea?"

Urrea gave the Ring Tailed Panther a malignant glance. 

"I have not been up to anything, to use your own common language, " hereplied. "If you want any explanation, you can ask it of your suspiciousyoung friend there. As for me, I am tired of holding my hands as high asmy head, and I intend to light a cigarette. Three of you, I suppose, aresufficient to watch me. "

There were still a few embers and touching his cigarette to one of themhe sat down, leaned against the trunk of a tree and began to puff, as ifthe future of the case had no interest for him. 

"Just hand me that pistol at your belt, will you?" said Obed. "Thereseems to be some kind of a difference of opinion between you and Ned, and, without knowing anything about it, I'm for Ned. "

Urrea took the pistol and tossed it toward Obed. The Maine man caught itdeftly and thrust it in his own belt. He did not seem to be at alloffended by the young Mexican's contemptuous manner. 

"Besides being one of the best watch makers the State of Maine everproduced, " he said, "I'm pretty good at sleight-of-hand. I could catchloaded pistols all day, Urrea, if you were to pitch them at me. "

Urrea did not deign a reply and Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther lookedat Ned, who told them all he had seen. Urrea did not deny a thing or saya word throughout the narrative. When Ned finished the Ring TailedPanther roared in his accustomed fashion. 

"Signalin' to the enemy from a tree top while we was asleep an' he wassupposed to be on guard!" he exclaimed. "What have you got to say tothis, Urrea?"

"Our young paragon of knowledge and wilderness lore has given you mystatement, " replied Urrea. "You can believe it or not as you choose. Ishall not waste another word on thickheads. "

The teeth of the Ring Tailed Panther came together with a click, and helooked ominously at Urrea. 

"You may not say anything, " he growled, "but I will. I didn't trust youat first, Don Francisco, an' there have been times all along since thenwhen I didn't trust you. You're a smooth talker, but your habit ofdisappearin' has been too much for me. I believe just as Ned does thatyou were signalin' to the enemy an' that you meant Texas harm, lots ofharm. It was a lucky thing that the boy awoke. Now, what do you think, Obed?"

"Appearances are deceitful sometimes but not always. Don Francisco seemsto have spun a likely yarn to Ned, but I've heard better and they werenot so mighty much. "

"You see the jury is clean ag'inst you, Don Francisco, " said the RingTailed Panther, "an' it's goin' to hold you to a higher court. Did youhear what I said?"

Urrea nodded. 

"Yes, I heard you, " he replied, "but I heard only foolishness. "

The Ring Tailed Panther growled, but he had the spirit of a gentleman. He would not upbraid a prisoner. 

"The verdict of the jury bein' given, " he said soberly, "we've got tohold the prisoner till we reach the higher court. We ain't takin' nochances, Urrea, an' for that reason we've got to tie you. Ned, cut off apiece of that lariat. "

Urrea leaped to his feet. He was stung at last. 

"I will not be bound, " he cried. 

"Yes, you will, " said the Ring Tailed Panther. "I ain't goin' to hurtyou, 'cause I'm pretty handy at that sort of thing, but I'll tie you soyou won't get loose in a hurry. Better set down an' take it easy. "

Urrea, after the single flash of anger, sat down, and resuming hiscareless air, held out his hands. 

"Since you intend to act like barbarians as well as fools, " he said, "Iwill not seek to impede you. "

None of the three replied. The Ring Tailed Panther handily tied hiswrists together, and then his ankles, but in such fashion that he couldstill sit in comfort, leaning against the tree, although the pleasure ofthe cigarette was no longer for him. 

"If you don't mind, " he said, "I think I shall go to sleep. "

"No objections a-tall, a-tall, " said the Ring Tailed Panther. "Have nicedreams. "

Urrea closed his eyes, and his chest soon rose and fell in the regularmanner of one who sleeps. Ned could not tell whether he really slept. Afeeling of compassion for Urrea rose again in his heart. What if heshould be telling the truth after all? Wild and improbable talessometimes came true. He was about to speak of his thoughts to the men, but he checked himself. Disbelief was returning. It was best to takeevery precaution. 

"You go to sleep, Ned, " said Obed. "You've done a good job and you areentitled to a rest. The Panther and I will watch till day. "

Ned lay down between his blankets and everything was so still thatcontrary to his expectations, he fell asleep, and did not awaken againuntil after dawn, when Obed told him that they would resume the march, eating their breakfast as they went. Urrea was unbound, although he wasfirst searched carefully for concealed weapons. 

"I wouldn't have a man to ride with his arms tied, " said the Ring TailedPanther, "but we'll keep on both sides of you an' you needn't try tomake a bolt of it, Urrea. "

"I shall not try to make any bolt of it, " said Urrea scornfully, "butyou will pay dearly to Austin and Houston for the indignity that youhave put upon me. "

The Ring Tailed Panther, true to his principle of never taunting aprisoner, did not reply, and they mounted. The Panther rode ahead andObed and Ned, with Urrea between them, followed. Urrea was silent, hisface melancholy and reproachful. 

The belt of timber extended only a few hundred yards farther, when theycame upon the open prairie extending to the horizon. Far to the leftsome antelope were feeding, but there was no other sign of life of anykind. 

"I don't see anything of them friends of ours to whom you weresignalin', " said the Ring Tailed Panther. 

Urrea would not reply. The Panther said nothing further, and they rodeon over the prairie. But both the Ring Tailed Panther and Obed werewatching the ground, and, when they had gone about two miles, theyreined in their horses. 

"See!" they exclaimed simultaneously. 

They had come to a broad trail cutting directly across their path. Itwas made by at least a hundred horses, and the veriest novice could nothave missed it. The trail was that of shod hoofs, indicating thepresence of white men. 

"What is this, Don Francisco?" asked the Ring Tailed Panther. 

"I do not have to reply to you unless I wish, " said Urrea, "but I amwilling to tell you that it is undoubtedly the trail of the Texanreinforcements to which I was signaling last night. "

Ned looked quickly at him. Again the young Mexican's voice had the ringof truth. Was the wild and improbable tale now coming true? If so, hecould never forgive himself for the manner in which he had treatedUrrea. Still, it was for the older men to act now, and he continued hissilence. 

"Maybe Texans made this trail, and maybe they didn't, " said Obed, "but Ithink we'd better follow it for a while and see. About how old would yousay this trail is, Panther?"

"Not more'n two hours. "

They turned their course, and followed the broad path left by thehorsemen across the prairie. Thus they rode at a good pace, until nearlynoon, and the trail was now so fresh that they could not be far away. The change of direction had brought them toward forest, heavy withundergrowth. It was evident that the horsemen had gone into this forestas the trail continued to lead straight to it, and the Ring TailedPanther approached with the greatest caution. 

"Can you see anything, Ned, in there among them trees an' bushes?" heasked. "You've got the sharpest eyes of all. "

"Not a thing, " replied Ned, "nor do I see a bough or bush moving. "

"It would be hard for such a big party to hide themselves, " said Obed, "so I think we'd better ride straight in. "

They entered the forest, still following the trail among the trampledbushes, riding slowly over rough ground, and watching wanly to right andleft. Urrea had not said a word, but when they were about a mile withinthe wood, he suddenly leaned from his horse, snatched the knife from thebelt of the Ring Tailed Panther and slashed at him. Fortunately, therange was somewhat long for such work, and, as the Panther threw up hisarm, the blade merely cut his buckskin sleeve from wrist to elbow, onlygrazing his skin. Urrea, quick as lightning, turned his horse, threw himagainst that of Obed which was staggered, and then started at a gallopamong the trees. 

The Ring Tailed Panther raised his rifle, but Urrea threw himself behindhis horse, riding with all the dexterity of a Comanche in the fashion ofan Indian who wishes to protect himself; that is, hanging on the farside of the horse by only hands and toes. The Panther shifted his aimand shot the horse through the head. But Urrea leaped clear of thefalling body, avoided Obed's bullet, and darted into the thickest of thebushes. As he disappeared a sharp, piercing whistle rose. Ned did nothave time to think, but when he heard the whistle, instinct warned himthat it was a signal. He had heard that whistle once before in excitingmoments, and by a nervous action as it were, he pulled hard upon thereins of his horse. In this emergency it was the boy whose action wasthe wisest. 

"Come back, Obed, you and Panther!" he shouted. "He may have led us intoan ambush!"

Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther were still galloping after Urrea, and, even as Ned shouted to them, a flash of flame burst from theundergrowth. He saw Obed's horse fall, but Obed himself sprang clear. The Panther did not seem to be hurt, but, in an instant, both weresurrounded by Mexicans. Obed was seized on the ground and the Pantherwas quickly dragged from his horse. But the Maine man, even in such acritical moment, did not forget the boy for whom he had such a strongaffection. He shouted at the top of his voice:

"Ride, Ned! Ride for your life!"

Ned, still guided by impulse, wheeled his horse and galloped away. Itwas evident that his comrades had been taken, and he alone was left tocarry out their mission. Shots were fired at him and bullets whistledpast, but none touched him, and he only urged his horse to greaterspeed. 

The boy felt a second impulse. It was to turn back and fall, or be takenwith the two comrades whom he liked so well. But then reason came. Hecould do more for them free than a captive, and now he began to takefull thought for himself. He bent far over on his horse's neck, in orderto make as small a target as possible, holding the reins with one handand his rifle with the other. A minute had taken him clear of theundergrowth, and once more he was on the prairie. 

Ned did not look back for some time. He heard several shots, but hejudged by the reports that he was practically out of range. Now he beganto feel sanguine. His horse was good and true, and he rode well. Aslong as the bullets could not reach and weaken, he felt that thechances were greatly in his favor. He was riding almost due north andthe prairie stretched away without limit, although the forest extendedfor a long distance on his right. 

He now straightened up somewhat in the saddle, but he did not yet lookback, fearing that he might check his speed by doing so, and knowingthat every moment was of the utmost value. But he listened attentivelyto the pursuing hoofs and he was sure that the beat was steadily growingfainter. The gap must be widening. 

He glanced back for the first time and saw about twenty Mexicans spreadout in the segment of a circle. They rode ponies and two or three wererecoiling lariats which they had evidently got ready in the hope of athrow. Ned smiled to himself when he saw the lariats. Unless somethinghappened to his horse they could never come near enough for a cast. Hemeasured the gap and he believed that his rifle of long range wouldcarry it. 

One of the Mexicans rode a little in front of the others and Ned judgedhim to be the leader. Twisting in his saddle he took aim at him. It isdifficult to shoot backward from a flying horse, but Ned had undergonethe wilderness training and he felt that he could make the hit. Hepulled the trigger. The jet of smoke leaped forth and the man, swaying, fell from his saddle, but sprang to his feet and clapped his hands tohis shoulder, where the boy's bullet had struck. 

There was confusion among the Mexicans, as it was really their leaderwhom Ned had wounded, and, before the pursuit was resumed with energy, the fugitive had gained another hundred yards. After that, the gapwidened steadily, and, when he looked back a second time, the Mexicanswere a full quarter of a mile in the rear. He maintained his speed andin another hour they were lost behind the swells. 

Sure that he had now made good his escape, Ned pulled his horse down toa walk. The good animal was dripping with foam and perspiration and hedid not allow him to cool too fast. Without his horse he would be lost. But when they had gone on another hour at a walk, he stopped and let himhave a complete rest. 

Ned was not able to see anything of the Mexicans. The prairie, as far ashe could tell, was bare of human life save himself. To his right was thedark line of the forest, but everywhere else the open extended to thehorizon. He had escaped!

They had started as four and now but one was left. Urrea had proved tobe a traitor and his good friends, Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther werecaptured or--he refused to consider the alternative. They were alive. Two men, so strong and vital as they, could not have fallen. 

Now that his horse had rested, Ned mounted again, and rode at a trot forthe forest. He knew the direction in which the settlements lay, and hecould go on with his mission. Men would say that he had shown greatskill and presence of mind in escaping from the ambush, when those olderand more experienced had been trapped. But when the alternatives werepresented to Ned's mind he had not hesitated. They were lingering beforeSan Antonio and the call for volunteers was not so urgent. He was goingback to rescue his comrades or be taken or fall in the attempt. 

One of the great qualities in Ned's mind was gratitude. Had it not beenfor Obed he might yet be under the sea in a dungeon of the Castle of SanJuan de Ulua. The Ring Tailed Panther had done him a hundred services, and would certainly risk his life, if need be, to save Ned's. He wouldnever desert them. 

The forest was not so near as it looked on the prairie, but two hours'riding brought him to it. He knew that it was the same forest in whichObed and the Panther had been taken, here extending for many miles. 

He believed that the Mexicans, being far north of their usual range, would remain in the forest, and he was glad of it. He could work muchbetter under cover than on the prairie. This was undoubtedly the Mexicanband of which the old hunter had spoken, and Urrea had given his signalto it from the tree. Ned did not believe that it would remain long inthis region, but would go swiftly south, probably to reinforce Cos inSan Antonio. He must act with speed. 

It was several hours until night, and he rode southward through theforest which consisted chiefly of oak, ash, maple and sweet gum. Therewas not much undergrowth here, and he did not have any great fear ofambush. Turning in, yet farther to the right, he saw a fine creek, andhe followed its course until the undergrowth began to grow thick again. Then he dismounted and fastened his horse at the end of his lariat. 

The boy had already come to his conclusion. The presence of the creekhad decided him. He believed that the Mexicans, for the sake of water, had encamped somewhere along its course, and all he had to do was tofollow its stream. He marked well the spot at which he was leaving hishorse, and began what he believed to be the last stage of his journey. 

Ned was glad now that the undergrowth was dense. It concealed him well, and he had acquired skill enough to go through it swiftly and withoutnoise. He advanced two or three miles, when he saw a faint light ahead, and he was quite sure that it came from the Mexican camp. As he wentnearer, he heard the sound of many voices, and, when he came to the edgeof a thicket, belief became certainty. 

The entire Mexican force was encamped in a semi-circular glade next tothe creek. The horses were tethered at the far side, and the men, eightyor a hundred in number, were lying or standing about several fires thatburned brightly. It was a cold night, and the Mexicans were makingthemselves comfortable. They were justified in doing so, as they knewthat there was no Texan force anywhere within a day's ride. They had putout no sentinels, quite sure that wandering Texans who might see themwould quickly go the other way. 

Ned crept up as close as he dared, and, lying on his side in a densethicket, watched them. Their fires were large, and a bright moon wasshining. The whole glade was filled with light. The Mexicans talkedmuch, after their fashion, and there was much moving about from fire tofire. Presently the eyes of the boy watching in the bush lighted up witha gleam which was not exactly that of benevolence. 

Urrea was passing before one of the fires. Ned saw him clearly now, thetrim, well-knit figure, and the handsome, melancholy face. But he was noprisoner. Many of the Mexicans made way for him and all showed himdeference. Ned had liked Urrea, but he could not understand how a mancould play the spy and traitor in such a manner, and his heart flamedwith bitterness against him. 

The Mexicans continued to shift about, and when two more men came intoview Ned's heart leaped. They were alive! Prisoners they were, but yetalive. He had believed that two so vivid and vital as they could notperish, and he was right. 

Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther sat with their backs against the sametree. They were unbound but the armed Mexicans were all about them, andthey did not have a chance. They were thirty yards away, and Ned couldsee them very plainly, yet there was a wall between him and these trustycomrades of his. 

Obed and the Panther remained motionless against the tree. Apparentlythey took no interest in the doings of the Mexicans. Ned, yet seeing noway in which he could help them, watched them a long time. He saw Urrea, after a while, come up and stand before them. The light was good enoughfor him to see that Urrea's expression was sneering and triumphant. Again Ned's heart swelled with rage. The traitor was exulting over thecaptives. 

Urrea began to speak. Ned could not hear his words, but he knew by themovement of the man's lips that he was talking fast. Undoubtedly he wastaunting the prisoners with words as well as looks. But neither Obed northe Ring Tailed Panther made any sign that he heard. They continued tolean carelessly against the tree, and Urrea, his desire to give painfoiled for the time, went away. 

Now Ned bestirred his mind. Here were the Mexicans, and here were hisfriends. How should he separate them? He could think of nothing atpresent and he drew back deeper into the forest. There, lying very closeamong the bushes, he pondered a long time. He might try to stampede thehorses, but the attempt would be more than doubtful, and he gave up theidea. 

It was now growing late and the fires in the Mexican camp were sinking. The wind began to blow, and the leaves rustled dryly over Ned's head. Best thoughts sometimes spring from little things, and it was the dryrustle of the leaves that gave Ned his idea. It was a desperate chance, but he must take it. The increasing strength of the wind increased hishope. It was blowing from him directly toward the camp. 

He retreated about a quarter of a mile. Then he hunted until he foundwhere the fallen leaves lay thickest, and he raked them into a greatheap. Drawing both the flint and steel which he, like other borderers, always carried, he worked hard until the spark leaped forth and set theleaves on fire. Then he stood back. 

The forest was dry like tinder. Ned had nothing to do but to set thetorch. In an instant the leaves leaped into a roaring flame. The blazeran higher, took hold of the trees and ran from bough to bough. Itsprang to other trees, and, in an incredibly brief space, a forest fire, driven by the wind, sending forth sparks in myriads, and roaring andcrackling, was racing down upon the Mexican camp. 

Ned kept behind the fire and to one side. Sparks fell upon him, and thesmoke was in his eyes and ears, but he thought little just then of suchthings. The fire, like many others of its kind, took but a narrow path. It was as if a flaming sword blade were slashed down across the woods. 

Ned saw it through the veil of smoke rush upon the Mexican camp. He sawthe startled Mexicans running about, and he heard the shrill neigh offrightened horses. Never was a camp abandoned more quickly. The mensprang upon their horses and scattered in every direction through thewoods. Two on horseback crowded by Ned. They did not see him, nor did hepay any attention to them, but when a third man on foot came, runningat the utmost speed, the boy seized him by the shoulder, and was draggedfrom his feet. 

"It is I, Obed!" he cried. "It is I, Ned Fulton!"

Obed White stopped abruptly and the Ring Tailed Panther, unable to checkhimself, crashed into him. The three, men and boy, went to the ground, where they lay for a few moments among the bushes, half stunned. It wasa fortunate chance, as Urrea, who had retained his presence of mind, wason horseback looking for the prisoners, and he passed so near that hewould have seen them had they been standing. 

The three rose slowly to their feet and the two men gazed in admirationat Ned. 

"You did it!" they exclaimed together. 

"I did, " replied Ned with pride, "and it has worked beautifully. "

"I was never so much in love with a forest fire before, " said the RingTailed Panther. "How it roars an' tears an' bites! An' just let it roaran' tear an' bite!"

"We'd better go on the back track, " said Obed. "The Mexicans are allrunning in other directions. "

"My horse is back that way, too, " said Ned. "Come on. "

They started back, running along the edge of the burned area. Beforethey had gone far the Ring Tailed Panther caught a saddled and bridledhorse which was galloping through the woods, and, they were so muchemboldened, that they checked their flight, and hunted about until theyfound a second. 

"There must be at least thirty or forty of 'em dashin' about through thewoods, mad with fright, " said Obed. 

"Three are all we can use, includin' Ned's, " said the Ring TailedPanther, "but I wish we had more weapons. "

They had found across the saddle of one of the horses a couple ofpistols in holsters, but they had no other weapons except those that Nedcarried. But they were free and they had horses. The Ring TailedPanther's customary growl between his teeth became a chant of triumph. 

"Did the Mexicans capture Obed an' me?" he said. "They did. Did theykeep us? They didn't. Why didn't they? There was a boy named Ned whoescaped. He was a smart boy, a terribly smart boy. Did he run away an'leave us? He didn't. There was only one trick in the world that he couldwork to save us, an' he worked it. Oh, it was funny to see the Mexicansrun with the fire scorchin' the backs of their ears. But that boy, Ned, ain't he smart? He whipped a hundred Mexicans all by himself. "

Ned blushed. 

"Stop that, you Panther, " he said, "or I'll call for Urrea to come andtake you back. "

"Having horses, " said Obed, "there is no reason why we shouldn't ride. Here, jump up behind me, Ned. "

They were very soon back at the point where Ned had left his own horse, and found him lying contentedly on his side. Then, well mounted each onhis own horses they resumed their broken journey. 

CHAPTER XXI

THE TEXAN STAR

Just after the three started, they looked back and saw a faint lightover the trees, which they knew was caused by the forest fire stilltraveling northward. 

"It seemed almost a sin to set the torch to the woods, " said the boy, "but I couldn't think of any other way to get you two loose from theMexicans. "

"It's a narrow fire, " said the Ring Tailed Panther, "an' I guess it willburn itself out ag'inst some curve of the creek a few miles further on. "

This, in truth, was what happened, as they learned later, but for thepresent they could bestow the thought of only a few moments upon thesubject. Despite the Mexican interruption they intended to go on withtheir mission. With good horses beneath them they expected to reach theBrazos settlements the next day unless some new danger intervened. 

They turned from the forest into the prairie and rode northward at agood gait. 

"That was a fine scheme of yours, Ned, " repeated the Ring TailedPanther, "an' nobody could have done it better. You set the fire an'here we are, together ag'in. "

"I was greatly helped by luck, " said Ned modestly. 

"Luck helps them that think hard an' try hard. Didn't that fellow, Urrea, give you the creeps? I had my doubts about him before, but Inever believed he was quite as bad as he is. "

But Ned felt melancholy. It seemed to him that somebody whom he likedhad died. 

"I saw him talking to you and Obed, " he said. "What was he saying?"

The Ring Tailed Panther frowned and Ned heard his teeth grit upon oneanother. 

"He was sayin' a lot of things, " he replied. "He was talkin' low down, hittin' at men who couldn't hit back, abusin' prisoners, which the samewas Obed an' me. He was doin' what I guess you would call tauntin', tellin' of all the things we would have to suffer. He said that they'dget you, too, before mornin' an' that we'd all be hanged as rebels an'traitors to Mexico. He laughed at the way he fooled us. He said thatspat he had with Sandoval was only make-believe. He said that we'd neverget San Antonio; that he'd kept Cos informed about all our movements an'that Santa Anna was comin' with a great army. He said that most of uswould be chawed right up, an' that them that wasn't chawed up would wishthey had been before Santa Anna got through with 'em. "

"Many a threatened man who runs away lives to fight another day, " saidObed cheerfully. 

"That's so, " said the Ring Tailed Panther, "an' I say it among us threethat if we don't take San Antonio we'll have a mighty good try at it, an' if it comes to hangin' an' all that sort of business there's Texanas well as Mexican ropes. "

They reached another belt of forest about 3 o'clock in the morning, andthey concluded to rest there and get some sleep. They felt no fear ofthe Mexicans who, they were sure, were now riding southward. They slepthere four or five hours, and late the next afternoon reached the firstsettlement on the Brazos. 

Ned and his companions spent a week on the river and when they rodesouth again they took with them nearly a hundred volunteers for theattack on San Antonio, the last draft that the little settlements couldfurnish. Very few, save the women and children, were left behind. 

On their return journey they passed through the very forest in which Nedhad made his singular rescue of Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther. Theysaw the camp and they saw the swath made by the fire, a narrow belt, five or six miles in length, ending as the Ring Tailed Panther hadpredicted at a curve of the creek. The Mexicans, as they now knewdefinitely, were gone days ago from that region. 

"Perhaps we'll meet Urrea when we attack San Antonio, " said Ned. 

"Maybe, " said Obed. 

They rode to the camp on the Salado without interruption, and found thatindecision still reigned there. The blockade of San Antonio was goingon, and the men were eager for the assault, but the leaders wereconvinced that the force was too small and weak. They would not consentto what they considered sure disaster. The recruits that the threebrought were welcomed, but Ned noticed a state of depression in thecamp. He found yet there his old friends, Bowie, Smith, Karnes, and theothers. His news that Urrea was a spy and traitor created a sensation. 

Ned was asked by "Deaf" Smith the morning after his arrival to go withhim on a scout, and he promptly accepted. A rest of a single day wasenough for him and he was pining for new action. 

The two rode toward the town, and then curved away to one side, keepingto the open prairie where they might see the approach of a superiorenemy, in time. They observed the Mexican sentinels at a distance, butthe two forces had grown so used to each other that no hostiledemonstration was made, unless one or the other came too close. 

Smith and Ned rode some distance, and then turned on another course, which brought them presently to a hill covered with ash and oak. Theyrode among the trees and from that point of vantage searched the wholehorizon. Ned caught the glint of something in the south, and calledSmith's attention to it. 

"What do you think it is?" he asked after Smith had looked a long time. 

"It's the sun shining on metal, either a lance head or a rifle barrel. Ah, now I see horsemen riding this way. "

"And they are Mexicans, too, " said Ned. "What does it mean?"

A considerable force of mounted Mexicans was coming into view, andSmith's opinion was formed at once. 

"It's reinforcements for Cos, " he cried. "We heard that Ugartchea wasgoing to bring fresh troops from Laredo, and that he would also havewith him mule loads of silver to pay off Cos' men. We'll just cut offthis force and take their silver. We'll ride to Bowie!"

They galloped at full speed to the camp and found the redoubtableGeorgian, who instantly gathered together a hundred men including theRing Tailed Panther and Obed and raced back. The Mexican horsemen werestill in the valley, seeming to move slowly, and Bowie at once formed upthe Texans for a charge. But before he could give the word a trumpetpealed, and the Mexicans rode at full speed toward a great gully at theend of the valley into which they disappeared. The last that the Texanssaw were some heavily-loaded mules following their master into theravine. 

The Ring Tailed Panther burst into a laugh. 

"Them's not reinforcements, " he cried, "an' them's not mules loaded withsilver. They're carryin' nothin' but grass. These men have been outthere cuttin' feed in the meadow for Cos' horses. "

"You're right, Panther, " said "Deaf" Smith, somewhat crestfallen. 

"But we'll attack, just the same, " said Bowie. "Our men need action. We'll follow 'em into that gully. On, men, on!"

A joyous shout was his reply and the men galloped into the plain. Theywere about to charge for the gully when Bowie cried to them to halt. Anew enemy had appeared. A heavy force of cavalry with two guns wascoming from San Antonio to rescue the grass cutters. They rode forwardwith triumphant cheers, but the Texans did not flinch. They would faceodds of at least three to one with calmness and confidence. 

"Rifles ready, men!" cried Bowie. "They're about to charge. "

The trumpets pealed out the signal again, and the Mexicans charged at agallop. Up went the Texans' rifles. A hundred fingers pressed a hundredtriggers, and a hundred bullets crashed into the front of the Mexicanline. Down went horses and men, and the Mexican column stopped. But itopened in a few moments, and, through the breach, the two cannon beganto fire, the heavy reports echoing over the plain. The Texansinstinctively lengthened their line, making it as thin as possible, andcontinued their deadly rifle fire. 

Ned, Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther as usual kept close together, and"Deaf" Smith also was now with them. All of them were aiming as well asthey could through the smoke which was gathering fast, but the Mexicans, in greatly superior force, supported by the cannon, held their ground. The grass cutters in the gully also opened fire on the Texan flank, andfor many minutes the battle swayed back and forth on the plain, whilethe clouds of smoke grew thicker, at times almost hiding the combatantsfrom one another. 

The Texans now began to press harder, and the Mexicans, despite theirnumbers and their cannon, yielded a little, but the fire from the men inthe gully was stinging their flank. If they pushed forward much fartherthey would be caught between the two forces and might be destroyed. Itwas an alarming puzzle, but at that moment a great shout rose behindthem. The sound of the firing had been heard in the main Texan camp andmore Texans were coming by scores. 

"It's all over now, " said Obed. 

The Texans divided into two forces. One drove the main column of theMexicans in confusion back upon the town, and the other, containing Nedand his friends, charged into the gully and put to flight or capturedall who were hidden there. They also took the mules with their loads ofgrass which they carried back to their own camp. 

Ned, the Ring Tailed Panther, Obed and "Deaf" Smith rode back togetherto the Salado. It had been a fine victory, won as usual against odds, but they were not exultant. In the breast of every one of them had beena hope that the whole Texan army would seize the opportunity and chargeat once upon Cos and San Antonio. Instead, they had been ordered back. 

They made their discontent vocal that and the following evenings. Therewas no particular order among the Texans. They usually acted in groups, according to the localities from which they came, and some, believingthat nothing would be done, had gone home disgusted. Mr. Austin himselfhad left, and Houston had persisted in his refusal to command. Burleson, a veteran Indian fighter, had finally been chosen for the leadership. Houston soon left, and Bowie, believing that nothing would be done, followed him. 

It was only a few days after the grass fight, and despite that victory, Ned felt the current of depression. It seemed that their fortune wasmelting away without their ever putting it to the touch. Although newmen had come their force was diminishing in numbers and San Antonio wasfarther from their hands than ever. 

"If we don't do something before long, " said Henry Karnes, "we'll justdissolve like a snow before a warm wind. "

"An' all our rippin' an' tearin' will go for nothin', " growled the RingTailed Panther. "We've won every fight we've been in, an' yet they won'tlet us go into that town an' have it out with Cos. "

"We'll get it yet, " said Obed cheerfully. "In war it's a long lane thathas no battle at the end. Just you be patient, Panther. Patience willhave her good fight. I've tested it more than once myself. "

Ned did not say anything. He had made himself a comfortable place, and, as the cold night wind was whistling among the oaks and pecans, the firecertainly looked very good to him. He watched the flames leap and sink, and the great beds of coals form, and once more he was very glad that hewas not alone again on the Mexican mountains. He resolutely put off thefeeling of depression. They might linger and hesitate now, but he didnot doubt that the cause of Texas would triumph in the end. 

Ned was restless that night, so restless that he could not sleep, and, after a futile effort, he rose, folded up his blankets and wanderedabout the camp. It was a body of volunteers drawn together by patriotismand necessity for a common purpose, and one could do almost as onepleased. There was a ring of sentinels, but everybody knew everybodyelse and scouts, skirmishers and foragers passed at will. 

Ned was fully armed, of course, and, leaving the camp, he entered an oakgrove that lay between it and the city. As there was no underbrush hereand little chance for ambush he felt quite safe. Behind him he saw thecamp and the lights of the scattered fires now dying, but before him hesaw only the trunks of the trees and the dusky horizon beyond. 

Ned had no definite object in view, but he thought vaguely of scoutingalong the river. One could never know too much about the opposing force, and experience added to natural gifts had given him great capabilities. 

He advanced deeper into the pecan grove, and reached the point where thetrees grew thickest. There, where the moonlight fell he saw a shadowlying along the ground, the shadow of a man. Ned sprang behind a treeand lay almost flat. The shadow had moved, but he could still see ahead. He felt sure that its owner was behind another tree not yet tenfeet distant. Perhaps some Mexican scout like himself. On the otherhand, it might be Smith or Karnes, and he called softly. 

No answer came to his call. Some freak of the moonlight still kept theshadowy head in view, while its owner remained completely hidden, unconscious, perhaps, that any part of his reflection was showing. Neddid not know what to do. After waiting a long time, and, seeing that theshadow did not move, he edged his way partly around the trunk, andstopped where he was still protected by the ground and the tree. He sawthe shadowy head shift to the same extent that he had moved, but heheard no sound. 

He called again and more loudly. He said: "I am a Texan; if you are afriend, say so!" No one would mistake his voice for that of a Mexican. No reply came from behind the tree. 

Ned was annoyed. This was most puzzling and he did not like puzzles. Moreover, his situation was dangerous. If he left his tree, the manbehind the other one--and he did not doubt now that he was anenemy--could probably take a shot at him. 

He tried every maneuver that he knew to draw the shot, while he yet layin ambush, but none succeeded. His wary enemy knew every ruse. Had itnot been for the shadowy head, yet visible in the moonlight, Ned mighthave concluded that he had gone. He had now been behind the tree a fullhalf hour, and during all that time he had not heard a single sound fromhis foe. The singular situation, so unusual in its aspect, and so realin its danger, began to get upon his nerves. 

He thought at last of something which he believed would draw the fire ofthe ambushed Mexican. He carried a pistol as well as a rifle, and, carefully laying the cocked rifle by his side, he drew the smallerweapon. Then he crept about the tree, purposely making a little noise. He saw the shadowy head move, and he knew that his enemy was seeking ashot. He heard for the first time a slight sound, and he could tell fromit exactly where the man lay. 

Raising his pistol he fired, and the bark flew from the right side ofthe tree. A man instantly sprang out, rifle in hand, and rushed towardhim expecting to take him, unarmed. Like a flash Ned seized his owncocked rifle and covered the man. When he looked down the sights he sawthat it was Urrea. 

Urrea halted, taken by surprise. His own rifle was not leveled, and Nedheld his life at his gun muzzle. 

"Stop, Don Francisco, or I fire, " said the boy. "I did not dream that itwas you, and I am sorry that I was wrong. "

Urrea recovered very quickly from his surprise. He did not seek to raisehis rifle, knowing that it was too late. 

"Well, " he said, "why don't you fire?"

"I don't know, " replied Ned. 

"I would do it in your place. "

"I know it, but there is a difference between us and I am glad of thatdifference, egotistical as it may sound. "

"There is another difference which perhaps you do not have in mind. Youare a Texan, an American, and I am a Mexican. That is why I came amongyou and claimed to be one of you. You were fools to think that I, Francisco Urrea, could ever fight for Texas against Mexico. "

"It seems that we were, " said Ned. 

Urrea laughed somewhat scornfully. 

"There are some Mexicans born here in Texas who are so foolish, " hesaid, "but they do not know Mexico. They do not know the greatness ofour nation, or the greatness of Santa Anna. What are your paltry numbersagainst us? You will fail here against San Antonio, and, even if youshould take the town, Santa Anna will come with a great army and destroyyou. And then, remember that there is a price to be paid. Much ropewill be used to good purpose in Texas. "

"You have eaten our bread, you have received kindness from us, and yetyou talk of executions. "

"I ate your bread, because it was my business to do so. I am not ashamedof anything that I have done. I do not exaggerate, when I say that Ihave rendered my nation great service against the Texan rebels. It was Iwho brought them against you more than once. "

"I should not boast of it. I should never pretend to belong to one sidein war and work for another. "

"Again there is a difference between us. Now, what do you purpose to do?I am, as it were, your prisoner, and it is for you to make a beginning. "

Ned was embarrassed. He was young and he could not enforce all therigors of war. He knew that if he took Urrea to the camp the man wouldbe executed as a spy and traitor. The Mexicans had already committedmany outrages, and the Texans were in no forgiving mood. Ned could notforget that this man had broken bread with his comrades and himself, andonce he had liked him. Even now his manner, which contained no fear norcringing, appealed to him. 

"Go, " he said at last, "I cannot take your life, nor can I carry you tothose who would take it. Doubtless I am doing wrong, but I do not knowwhat else to do. "

"Do you mean that you let me go free?"

"I do. You cannot be a spy among us again, and as an open enemy you areonly as one among thousands. Of course you came here to-night to spyupon us, and it was an odd chance that brought us together. Take thedirection of San Antonio, but don't look back. I warn you that I shallkeep you covered with my rifle. "

Urrea turned without another word and walked away. Ned watched him fora full hundred yards. He noticed that the man's figure was as trim anderect as ever. Apparently, he was as wanting in remorse as he was infear. 

When Urrea had gone a hundred yards Ned turned and went swiftly back tothe camp. He said nothing about the incident either to Obed or the RingTailed Panther. The next day Urrea was crowded from his mind by excitingnews. A sentinel had hailed at dawn three worn and unkempt Texans whohad escaped from San Antonio, where they had long been held prisoners byCos. They brought word that the Mexican army was disheartened. The heavyreinforcements, promised by Santa Anna, had not come. 

A great clamor for an immediate attack arose. The citizen army gatheredin hundreds around the tent of Burleson, the leader, and demanded thatthey be led against San Antonio. Fannin and Milam were there, and theyseconded the demands of the men. Ned stood on the outskirts of thecrowd. The Ring Tailed Panther on one side of him uttering a successionof growls, but Obed on the other was silent. 

"It looks like a go this time, " said Ned. 

"I think it is, " said Obed, "and if it isn't a go now it won't be one atall. Waiting wears out the best of men. "

The Ring Tailed Panther continued to growl. 

A great shout suddenly arose. The Panther ceased to growl and his facebeamed. Burleson had consented to the demand of the men. It was quicklyarranged that they should attack San Antonio in the morning, and riskeverything on the cast. 

The short day--it was winter now--was spent in preparations. Ned and hiscomrades cleaned their rifles and pistols and provided themselves withdouble stores of ammunition. Ned did not seek to conceal from himself, nor did the men seek to hide from him the greatness and danger of theirattempt. 

"They outnumber us and they hold a fortified town, " said Obed. "Whateverwe do we three must stick together. In union there is often safety. "

"We stick as long as we stand, " said the Ring Tailed Panther. "If onefalls the other two must go on, an', if two fall, the last must go on aslong as he can. "

"Agreed, " said Ned and Obed. 

They were ready long before night, but after dark an alarming storyspread through the little army. Part of it at least proved to be true. One of the scouts, sent out after the decision to attack had been taken, had failed to come in. It was believed that he had deserted to theMexicans with news of the intended Texan advance. The leaders hadcounted upon surprise, as a necessary factor in their success, andwithout it they would not advance. Gloom settled over the army, but itwas not a silent gloom. These men spoke their disappointment in wordsmany and loud. Never had the Ring Tailed Panther roared longer, withouttaking breath. 

The Texans were still talking angrily about the fires, when anothershout arose. The missing scout came in and he brought with him a Mexicandeserter, who confirmed all the reports about the discouragement of thegarrison. Once more, the Texans crowded about Burleson's tent, anddemanded that the attack be made upon San Antonio. At last Burlesonexclaimed:

"Well, if you can get volunteers to attack, go and attack!"

Milam turned, faced the crowd and raised his hand. 

There was a sudden hush save for the deep breathing of many men. Thenin a loud, clear voice Milam spoke only ten words. They were:

"Who will go with old Ben Milam into San Antonio?"

And a hundred voices roared a single word in reply. It was:

"I!"

"That settles it, " said the Ring Tailed Panther with deep satisfaction. "Old Satan himself couldn't stop the attack now. "

The word was given that the volunteers for the direct attack, threehundred in number, would gather at an old mill half way between the campand the town. Thence they would march on foot for the assault. Ned andhis comrades were among the first to gather at the mill and he waited ascalmly as he could, while the whole force was assembled, three hundredlean, brown men, large of bone and long of limb. 

No light was allowed, and the night was cold. The figures of the menlooked like phantoms in the dusk. Ned stood with his friends, whileMilam gave the directions. They were to be divided into two forces. Oneunder Milam was to enter the town by the street called Acequia, and theother under Colonel Johnson was to penetrate by Soledad Street. Theyrelied upon the neglect of the Mexicans to get so far, before the battlebegan. Burleson, with the remainder of his men would attack the ancientmission, then turned into a fort, called the Alamo. 

"Deaf" Smith, who knew the town thoroughly, led Johnson's column, andNed, Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther were just behind him. 

Ned was quivering in every nerve with excitement and suspense, but helet no one see it. He moved forward with steady step and he heard behindhim the soft tread of the men who intended to get into San Antoniowithout being seen. He looked back at them. They came in the dusk likeso many shadows and no one spoke. It was like a procession of ghosts, moving into a sleeping town. The chill wind cut across their faces, butno one at that moment took notice of cold. 

High over Ned's head a great star danced and twinkled, and it seemed tohim that it was the Texan Star springing out. 

The houses of the town rose out of the darkness. Ned saw off to rightand left fresh earthworks and rifle pits, but either no men werestationed there or they slept. The figure of Smith led steadily on andbehind came the long and silent file. How much farther would they gowithout being seen or heard? It seemed amazing to Ned that they had comeso far already. 

They were actually at the edge of the town. Now they were in it, goingup the narrow Soledad Street between the low houses directly toward themain plaza, which was fortified by barricades and artillery. A faintglimmer of dawn was just beginning to appear in the east. 

A dusky figure suddenly appeared in the street in front of them and gavea shout of alarm. "Deaf" Smith fired and the man fell. A bugle pealedfrom the plaza and a cannon was fired down the street, the ballwhistling over the heads of the Texans. In an instant the garrison ofCos was awake, and the alarm sounded from every point of San Antonio. Lights flashed, arms rattled and men called to one another. 

"Into this house" cried "Deaf" Smith. "We cannot charge up the narrowstreet in face of the cannon!"

They were now within a hundred yards of the plaza, but they saw that theguide was right. They dashed into the large, solid house that he hadindicated, and Ned did not notice until he was inside that it was thevery house of the Vice-Governor, Veramendi, into which he had come oncebefore. Just as the last of the Texans sprang through the doors anothercannon ball whistled down the street, this time low enough. Milam'sdivision, meanwhile, had rushed into the house of De La Garcia, near by. 

As Ned and the others sprang to cover he trampled upon the flowers in apatio, and he saw a little fountain playing. Then he knew. It was thehouse of Veramendi, and he thought it a singular chance that had broughthim to the same place. But he had little time for reflection. The columnof Texans, a hundred and fifty in number, were taking possession ofevery part of the building, the occupants of which had fled through therear doors. 

"To the roof!" cried "Deaf" Smith. "We can best meet the attack fromthere. "

The doors and windows were already manned, but Smith and many of thebest men rushed to the flat roof, and looked over the low stone coping. It was not yet day and they could not see well. Despite the lack oflight, the Mexicans opened a great fire of cannon and small arms. Thewhole town resounded with the roar and the crash and also with theshouting. But most of the cannon balls and bullets flew wide, and therest spent themselves in vain on the two houses. 

The Texans, meanwhile, held their fire, and waited for day. Ned, Smithand the others on the roof lay down behind the low coping. They hadachieved their long wish. They were in San Antonio, but what wouldhappen to them there?

Ned peeped over the coping. He saw many flashes down the street towardthe plaza and he heard the singing of bullets. His finger was on thetrigger and the temptation to reply was great, but like the others hewaited. 

The faint light in the east deepened and the sun flashed out. The fulldawn was at hand and the two forces, Texans and Mexicans, faced eachother. 

CHAPTER XXII

THE TAKING OF THE TOWN

The December sun, clear and cold, bathed the whole town in light. Houses, whether of stone, adobe or wood, were tinted a while with gold, but everywhere in the streets and over the roofs floated white puffs ofsmoke from the firing, which had never ceased on the part of theMexicans. The crash of rifles and muskets was incessant, and everyminute or two came the heavy boom of the cannon with which Cos swept thestreets. The Texans themselves now pulled the trigger but little, calmlywaiting their opportunity. 

Ned and his comrades still lay on the roof of the Veramendi house. Theboy's heart beat fast but the scene was wild and thrilling to the lastdegree. He felt a great surge of pride that he should have a share in sogreat an event. From the other side of the river came the rattle ofrifle fire, and he knew that it was the detachment from Burlesonattacking the Alamo. But presently the sounds there died. 

"They are drawing off, " said Obed, "and it is right. It is their duty tohelp us here, but I don't see how they can ever get into San Antonio. Iwish the Mexicans didn't have those cannon which are so much heavierthan ours. "

The Texans had brought with them a twelve pounder and a six pounder, butthe twelve pounder had already been dismounted by the overpoweringMexican fire, and, without protection they were unable to use the sixpounder which they had drawn into the patio, where it stood silent. 

Ned from his corner could see the mouths of the guns in the heavyMexican battery at the far end of the plaza, and he watched the flashesof flame as they were fired one by one. In the intervals he saw a lithe, strong figure appear on the breastwork, and he was quite sure that itwas Urrea. 

An hour of daylight passed. From the house of De La Garcia the otherdivision of Texans began to fire, the sharp lashing of their riflessounding clearly amid the duller crash of musketry and cannon from theMexicans. The Texans in the lower part of the Veramendi house were alsoat work with their rifles. Every man was a sharpshooter, and, whenever aMexican came from behind a barricade, he was picked off. But theMexicans had also taken possession of houses and they were firing withmuskets from windows and loopholes. 

"We must shoot down the cannoneers, " shouted the Ring Tailed Panther to"Deaf" Smith. 

Smith nodded. The men on the roof were fifteen in number and now theydevoted their whole attention to the battery. Despite the drifting smokethey hit gunner after gunner. The fever in Ned's blood grew. Everythingwas red before him. His temples throbbed like fire. The spirit of battlehad taken full hold of him, and he fired whenever he caught a glimpse ofa Mexican. 

"Deaf" Smith was on Ned's right, and he picked off a gunner. But to doso he had lifted his head and shoulders above the coping. A figure roseup behind the Mexican barricade and fired in return. "Deaf" Smithuttered a little cry, and clapped his hand to his shoulder. 

"Never mind, " he said in reply to anxious looks. "It's in the fleshypart only, and I'm not badly hurt. "

The bullet had gone nearly through the shoulder and was just under theskin on the other side. The Ring Tailed Panther cut it out with hisbowie knife and bound up the wound tightly with strips from his huntingshirt. But Ned, although it was only a fleeting glimpse, had recognizedthe marksman. It was Urrea who had sent the bullet through "Deaf"Smith's shoulder. He was proving himself a formidable foe. 

But the men on the roof continued their deadly sharpshooting, and now, the battery, probably at Urrea's suggestion, began to turn its attentionto them. Ned was seized suddenly by Obed and pulled flat. There was aroaring and hissing sound over his head as a twelve pound cannon ballpassed, and Ned said to Obed: "I thank you. " The cannon shot wasfollowed by a storm of bullets and then by more cannon shots. TheMexican guns were served well that day. The coping was shot away and theTexans were in imminent danger from the flying pieces. They were gladwhen the last of it was gone. 

But they did not yet dare to raise themselves high enough for a shot. Balls, shell, and bullets swept the roof without ceasing. Ned lay on hisside, almost flat. He listened to the ugly hissing and screaming overhis head until it became unbearable. He turned over on his other sideand looked at Smith, their leader. Smith was pale and weak from hiswound, but he smiled wanly. 

"You don't speak, but your face asks your question, Ned, " he said. "Ihate to say it, but we can't hold this roof. I never knew the Mexicansto shoot so well before, and their numbers and cannon give them a greatadvantage. Below, lads, as soon as you can!"

They crept down the stairway, and found that the house itself wassuffering from the Mexican cannon. Holes had been smashed in the walls, but here the Texans were always replying with their rifles. They alsoheard the steady fire in the house of De La Garcia and they knew thattheir comrades were standing fast. Ned, exhausted by the great tension, sat down on a willow sofa. His hands were trembling and his face was wetwith perspiration. The Ring Tailed Panther sat down beside him. 

"Good plan to rest a little, Ned, " he said. "We've come right into ahornets' nest an' the hornets are stingin' us hard. Listen to that, willyou!"

A cannon ball smashed through the wall, passed through the room in whichthey were sitting, and dropped spent in another room beyond. Obed joinedthem on the sofa. 

"A cannon ball never strikes in the same place twice, " misquoted Obed. "So it's safer here than it is anywhere else in this Veramendi house. I'd help with the rifles but there's no room for me at the windows andloopholes just now. "

"Our men are giving it back to them, " said Ned. "Listen how the riflescrackle!"

The battle was increasing in heat. The Mexicans, despite theirartillery, and their heavy barricades, were losing heavily at the handsof the sharpshooters. The Texans, sheltered in the buildings, weresuffering little, but their position was growing more dangerous everyminute. They were inside the town, but the force of Burleson outside wasunable to come to their aid. Meanwhile, they must fight five to one, butthey addressed themselves with unflinching hearts to the task. Even inthe moment of imminent peril they did not think of retreat, but clungto their original purpose of taking San Antonio. 

Ned, tense and restless, was unable to remain more than a few minutes onthe sofa. He wandered into another room and saw a large table spreadwith food. Bread and meat were in the dishes, and there were pots ofcoffee. All was now cold. Evidently they had been making ready for earlybreakfast in the Veramendi house when the Texans came. Ned called to hisfriends. 

"Why shouldn't we use it!" he said, "even if it is cold?"

"Why shouldn't we?" said Obed. "Even though we fight we must live. "

They took the food and coffee, cold as it was, to the men, and they ateand drank eagerly. Then they searched everywhere and found largesupplies of provisions in the house, so much, in fact, that the RingTailed Panther growled very pleasantly between his teeth. 

"There's enough here, " he said, "to last two or three days, an' it'swell when you're in a fort, ready to stand a siege, to have something toeat. "

Some of the men now left the windows and loopholes to get a rest and Nedfound a place at one of them. Peeping out he saw the bare street, tornby shot and shell. He saw the flash of the Texan rifles from the De LaGarcia house and he saw the blaze of the Mexican cannon in the plaza. Mexican men, women and children on the flat roofs, out of range, wereeagerly watching the battle. Clouds of smoke drifted over the city. 

While Ned was at the window, a second cannon ball smashed through thewall of the Veramendi house, and caused the débris to fall in masses. The Colonel grew uneasy. The cannon gave the Mexicans an immenseadvantage, and they were now using it to the utmost. The house would bebattered down over the heads of the Texans, and they could not live inthe streets, which the Mexicans, from their dominating position, couldsweep with cannon and a thousand rifles and muskets. A third ballcrashed through the wall and demolished the willow sofa on which thethree had been sitting. Plaster rained down upon the Texans. They lookedat one another. They could not stay in the house nor could they go out. A boy suddenly solved the difficulty. 

"Let's dig a trench across the street to the De La Garcia house!" criedNed, "and join our comrades there!"

"That's the thing!" they shouted. They had not neglected to bringintrenching tools with them, and they found spades and shovels about thehouse. But in order to secure the greatest protection for their workthey decided to wait until night, confident that they could hold theirpresent position throughout the day. 

It was many hours until the darkness, and the fire rose and fell atintervals. More shattered plaster fell upon them, but they were stillholding the wreck of a house, when the welcome twilight deepened anddarkened into the night. Then they began work just inside the doorway, cutting fast through plaster and adobe, and soon reaching the street. They made the trench fairly wide, intending to get their six pounderacross also. Just behind those who worked with spade and shovel came theriflemen. 

A third of the way across, and the Mexicans discovered what was goingon. Once more a storm of cannon, rifle and musket balls swept thestreet, but the Texans, bent down in their trench, toiled on, throwingthe dirt above their heads and out on either side. The riflemen behindthem, sheltered by the earth, replied to the Mexican fire, and, despitethe darkness, picked off many men. 

Ned was just behind Obed, and the Ring Tailed Panther was following him. All three were acting as riflemen. Obed was seeking a glimpse of Urrea, but he did not get it. Ned was watching for a shot at the gunners. 

Once the Mexicans under the cover of their artillery undertook to chargedown the street, but the sharpshooters in the trench quickly drove themback. 

Thus they burrowed like a great mole all the way across Soledad Street, and joined their comrades in the strong house of De La Garcia. They alsosucceeded in getting both of their cannon into the house, and, nowunited, the Texans were encouraged greatly. Ned found all the roomsfilled with men. A party broke through the joint wall and entered thenext house, thus taking them nearer to the plaza and the Mexicanfortifications. 

All through the night intermittent firing went on. The Mexicansincreased their fortifications, preparing for a desperate combat on themorrow. They threw up new earthworks, and they loopholed many of thehouses that they held. Cos, his dark face darker with rage and fury, went among them, urging them to renewed efforts, telling them that theywere bound to take prisoners all the Texans whom they did not slay inbattle, and that they should hang every prisoner. Great numbers of thewomen and children had hidden in the Alamo on the other side of theriver. San Antonio itself was stripped for battle, and the hatredbetween Texan and Mexican, so unlike in temperament, flamed into newheat. 

Ned was worn to the bone. His lips were burnt with his feverish breath. The smoke stung his eyes and nostrils, and his limbs ached. He felt thathe must rest or die, and, seeing two men sound asleep on the floor ofone of the rooms, he flung himself down beside them. He slept in a fewminutes and Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther seeing him there did notdisturb him. 

"If any boy has been through more than he has, " said Obed, "I haven'theard of him. "

"An' I guess that he an' all of us have got a lot more comin', " said theRing Tailed Panther grimly. "Cos ain't goin' to give up here without theterriblest struggle of his life. He can't afford to do it. "

"Reckon you're right, " said Obed. 

Ned awoke the next morning with the taste of gunpowder in his mouth, butthe Texans, besides finding food in the houses, had brought some withthem, and he ate an ample breakfast. Then ensued a day that he foundlong and monotonous. Neither side made any decided movement. There wasoccasional firing, but they rested chiefly on their arms. In the courseof the second night the Mexicans opened another trench, from which theybegan to fire at dawn, but the Texan rifles quickly put them to flight. 

The Texans now began to grow restless. Cooped up in two houses they werein the way of one another and they demanded freedom and action. HenryKarnes suggested that they break into another house closer to the plaza. Milam consented and Karnes, followed closely by Ned, Obed, the RingTailed Panther and thirty others, dashed out, smashed in the door of thehouse, and were inside before the astonished Mexicans could open anaccurate fire upon them. Here they at once secured themselves and theirbullets began to rake the plaza. The Mexicans were forced to throw upmore and higher intrenchments. 

Again the combat became intermittent. There were bursts of rifle fire, and occasional shots from the cannon, and, now and then, short periodsof almost complete silence. Night came on and Ned, watching from thewindow, saw Colonel Milam, their leader, pass down the trench and enterthe courtyard of the Veramendi house. He stood there a moment, lookingat the Mexican position. A musket cracked and the Texan, throwing up hisarms, fell. He was dead by the time he touched the ground. The ball hadstruck him in the center of the forehead. 

Ned uttered a cry of grief, and it was taken up by all the Texans whohad seen their leader fall. A half dozen men rushed forward and draggedaway his body, but that night they buried it in the patio. His deathonly incited them to new efforts. As soon as his burial was finishedthey rushed another house in their slow advance, one belonging toAntonio Navarro, a solid structure only one block from the great plaza. They also stormed and carried a redoubt which the Mexicans had erectedin the street beside the house. It now being midnight they concluded torest until the morrow. Meanwhile, they had elected Johnson their leader. 

Ned was in the new attack and with Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther hewas in the Navarro house. It was the fourth that he had occupied sincethe attack on San Antonio. He felt less excitement than on the nightbefore. It seemed to him that he was becoming hardened to everything. Helooked at his comrades and laughed. They were no longer in the semblanceof white men. Their faces were so blackened with smoke, dirt and burnedgunpowder that they might have passed for negroes. 

"You needn't laugh, Ned, " said Obed. "You're just as black as we are. This thing of changing your boarding house every night by violence andthe use of firearms doesn't lead to neatness. If fine feathers makefine birds then we three are about the poorest flock that ever flew. "

"But when we go for a house we always get it, " said the Ring TailedPanther. "You notice that. This place belongs to Antonio Navarro. I'vemet him in San Antonio, an' I don't like him, but I'm willin' to takehis roof an' bed. "

Ned took the roof but not the bed. He could not sleep that night, and itwas found a little later that none would have a chance to sleep. TheMexicans, advancing over the other houses, the walls of all of whichjoined, cut loopholes in the roof of the Navarro house and opened fireupon the Texans below. The Texans, with surer aim, cleared the Mexicansaway from the loopholes, then climbed to the roof and drove them offentirely. 

But no one dared to sleep after this attack, and Ned watched all throughthe dark hours. Certainly they were having action enough now, and he waswondering what the fourth day would bring forth. From an upper window hewatched the chilly sun creep over the horizon once more, and the dawnbrought with it the usual stray rifle and musket shots. Both Texan andMexican sharpshooters were watching at every loophole, and whenever theysaw a head they fired at it. But this was only the beginning, thecrackling prelude to the event that was to come. 

"Come down, Ned, " said Obed, "and get your breakfast. We've got coffeeand warm corn cakes and we'll need 'em, as we're already tired of thisboarding house and we intend to find another. "

"Can't stay more than one night in a place while we're in San Antonio, "said the Ring Tailed Panther, growling pleasantly. "A restless lot weare an' it's time to move on again. "

Ned ate and drank in silence. His nerves were quite steady, and he hadbecome so used to battle that he awaited whatever they were going toattempt, almost without curiosity. 

"Ain't you wantin' to know what we're goin' to do, Ned?" asked the RingTailed Panther. 

"I'm thinking that I'll find out pretty quick, " replied Ned. 

"Now this boy is shorely makin' a fine soldier, " said the Panther toObed. "He don't ask nothin' about what he's goin' to do, but just eatsan' waits orders. "

Ned smiled and ate another corn cake. 

"Maybe, " said Obed, "we'll meet our friend Urrea in the attack we'regoing to make. If so, I'll take a shot at him, and I won't have anyremorse about it, either, if I hit him. "

They did not wait long. A strong body of the Texans gathered on thelower floor, many carrying, in addition to their weapons, heavy ironcrowbars. The doors were suddenly thrown open and they rushed out intothe cool morning air, making for a series of stone houses called theZambrano Row, the farthest of which opened upon the main plaza, wherethe Mexicans were fortified so strongly. Scattering shots from musketsand rifles greeted them, but as usual, when any sudden movementoccurred, the Mexicans fired wildly, and the Texans broke into the firstof the houses, before they could take good aim. 

Ned was one of the last inside. He had lingered with the others to repelany rush that the Mexicans might make. He was watching the Mexicanbarricade, and he saw heads rise above it. One rose higher than the restand he recognized Urrea. The Mexican saw Ned also, and the eyes of thetwo met. Urrea's were full of anger and malice, and raising his riflehe fired straight at the boy. Ned felt the bullet graze his cheek, andinstantly he fired in reply. But Urrea had quickly dropped down behindthe barricade and the bullet missed. Then Ned rushed into the house. 

The boy was blazing with indignation. He had spared Urrea's life, andyet the Mexican had sought at the first opportunity to kill him. Hecould not understand a soul of such caliber. But the incident passedfrom his mind, for the time being, in the strenuous work that they begannow to do. 

They broke through partition wall after wall with their powerful picksand crowbars. Stones fell about them. Plaster and dust rained down, butthe men relieving one another, the work with the heavy tools was neverstopped until they penetrated the interior of the last house in the row. Then the Texans uttered a grim cry of exultation. They looked from thenarrow windows directly over the main plaza and their rifles covered theMexican barricades. The Mexicans tried to drive them out of the houseswith the guns, but the solid stone walls resisted balls and shells, andthe Texan rifles shot down the gunners. 

Then ensued another silence, broken by distant firing, caused by anotherattack upon the Texan camp outside the town. It was driven off quicklyand the Texans in the houses lay quiet until evening. Then they heard agreat shouting, the occasion of which they did not know until later. Ugartchea with six hundred men had arrived from the Rio Grande to helpCos. But it would not have made any difference with the Texans had theyknown. They were determined to take San Antonio, and all the time theywere pressing harder on Cos. 

That night, the Texans, Ned with them, seized another large buildingcalled the Priests' House, which looked directly over the plaza, and nowtheir command of the Mexican situation was complete. Nothing could livein the square under their fire, and in the night Ned saw the Mexicanswithdrawing, leaving their cannon behind. 

Exhaustion compelled the boy to sleep from midnight until day, when hewas roused by Obed. 

"The Mexicans have all gone across the river to the Alamo, " said theMaine man. "San Antonio is ours. "

Ned went forth with his comrades. Obed had told the truth. The greatseat of the Mexican power in the north was theirs. Three hundred daringmen, not strongly supported by those whom they had left behind, hadpenetrated to the very heart of the city through house after house, andhad driven out the defenders who were five to their one. 

The plaza and Soledad Street presented a somber aspect. The Mexicandead, abandoned by their comrades, lay everywhere. The Texan rifles haddone deadly work. The city itself was silent and deserted. 

"Most of the population has gone with the Mexican army to the Alamo, "said Obed. "I suppose we'll have to attack that, too. "

But Cos, the haughty and vindictive general, did not have the heart fora new battle with the Texans. He sent a white flag to Burleson andsurrendered. Ned was present when the flag came, and the leader of thelittle party that brought it was Urrea. The young Mexican had lost noneof his assurance. 

"You have won now, " he said to Ned, "but bear in mind that we will comeagain. You have yet to hear from Mexico and Santa Anna. "

"When Santa Anna comes he will find us here ready to meet him, " repliedNed. 

The Texans in the hour of their great and marvelous victory behaved withhumanity and moderation. Cos and his army, which still doubled innumbers both the Texans who had been inside and outside San Antonio, were permitted to retire on parole beyond the Rio Grande. They left inthe hands of the Texans twenty-one cannon and great quantities ofammunition. Rarely has such a victory been won by so small a force andin reality with the rifle alone. All the Texans felt that it was asplendid culmination to a perilous campaign. 

Ned, Obed and the Ring Tailed Panther, seated on their horses, watchedthe captured army of Cos march away. 

"Well, Texas is free, " said the Ring Tailed Panther. 

"And San Antonio is ours, " said Obed. 

"But Santa Anna will come, " said Ned, remembering the words of Urrea.