"You think General Cos is here to fortify the Alamo?"
"Yes; the work commences to-morrow, I hear, and the fort will be garrisoned by Spanish troops."
"How many has he with him?" inquired his sister.
"Only fifty or sixty; this is merely the advanced guard, the main body will probably arrive in a few days."
"I suppose they are joyously welcomed by the Mexicans here, who have ever regarded with jealous eyes Protestant settlers."
"Oh, yes, that shout testified the hearty welcome they received."
At this moment Mr. Hamilton joined the group.
"Have you heard the news?" he inquired.
"Yes, and sad enough it is," said Mary, with a sigh.
"It will be a bloody conflict."