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Mexicans had been routed, and for over a week matters went along quietly in the vicinity of Gonzales; that is, there was no further righting. Meetings there were without number, and young and old began to drill and to talk of nothing but military matters.

"Will you join the army, father?" asked Dan, when, two days after the fight, he and his parent returned to the ranch home.

"I do not see how I can avoid it," answered Mr. Radbury. "Many of the neighbours are going, and it might appear cowardly to hang back. Besides, I must say that, after long thought, I have come to the conclusion that there is nothing for us to do but to fight for our rights."

"Hurrah! I knew you would say that," cried Dan. "We must be free by all means, and then perhaps some day we'll become joined to the United States."

"That is for after consideration," smiled Mr.