He might find Obed White, Will Allen and the Panther out there and bring them back with him, but his second impulse told him that it was only a chance, and he would abide with Crockett and Bowie.
"I thank you for the offer, but I think, sir, that I'll stay," he said.
He saw Crockett give him a swift approving glance.

Another was quickly chosen in his stead, and Ned was in the grand plaza when they dropped over the low wall and disappeared in the darkness.

His comrades and he listened attentively a long time, but as they heard no sound of shots they were sure that they were now safe beyond the Mexican lines.
"I don't want to discourage anybody," said Bowie, "but I'm not hoping much from the messengers.

The Texans are scattered too widely." "No, they can't bring many," said Crockett, "but every man counts.
Sometimes it takes mighty little to turn the tale, and they may turn it." "I hope so," said Bowie.
The Mexican cannon were silent that night and Ned slept deeply, awaking only when the dawn of a clear day came.

He was astonished at the quickness with which he grew used to a state of siege and imminent danger.