All day the din of battle had sounded in his ear; Inez from time to time stole from his side, and looked out toward the fortress, dimly seen through the sulphurous cloud of smoke and the blaze of artillery.
In the silent watches of the night, the shout of "Victory!" was borne on by the blast.

"My father, the Alamo is taken--Santa Anna has conquered!" He struggled fearfully, a gurgling sound alone passed his lips, and he fell back lifeless on his pillow.
Calmly the girl bent down and closed the eyes, covered decently the convulsed features, and then, shrouding her face with the mantilla, stept forth for assistance.

The next day saw the Don borne to his last resting-place.

In accordance with the custom of the nation, no female followed the bier.

It was borne by two men, and followed by some dozen children, and perhaps as many aged Mexicans.