Oh, if we could only use our own guns!" But the Texan cannon stood as worthless as if they had been spiked, and the Texans were compelled to remain silent and helpless, while the Mexicans put their new guns in position, and took aim with deliberation, as if all the time in the world was theirs.

Ned tried to console himself with the reflection that Mexican gunners were not often accurate, but the first thud and puff of smoke showed that these were better than usual.
A shower of grape shot coming from a superior height swept their camp, killing two or three of the remaining oxen, smashing the wagons to pieces, and wounding more men.

Another shower from the second gun struck among them with like result, and the case of the Texans grew more desperate.
They tried to reach the gunners with their rifles, but the range was too great, and, after having thrown away nearly all the ammunition that was left, they were forced to stand idly and receive the Mexican fire.

The Mexicans must have divined the Texan situation, as a great cheer rose from their lines.

It became evident to Ned that the shallow crater would soon be raked through and through by the Mexican artillery.
Fannin, lying upon his pallet, was already calling a council of his officers, to which anyone who chose might listen.