The bridge was gained at length and almost passed, when she descried in the surrounding gloom a dark figure approaching from the opposite direction.

Closer she drew the mantle about her form, and slackened her rapid pace.

They met, and the stranger paused and bent eagerly forward: "Who goes there ?" The voice was well known.

Inez's heart gave a quick bound, and she answered: "Inez de Garcia!" "Why, where are you roaming to this dark night, Inez?
Are you not afraid to venture out alone and so far from home ?" "No, Doctor, I have no fears; I was never a coward you know; and besides, who would harm me, an unoffending woman?
Surely your people will not molest me ?" "No, certainly not.

But, Inez, I hope you are not bending your steps toward the Alamo ?" "I am a friend to the Americans, though they have taken the last of my family there was to give.