Page:The Fall of the Alamo.djvu/111

 Were at the enemy's next attack to catch One of their officers and him to hold As hostage subject to exchange. I see The force and justice of thy counseling words. All we can do is to abide in patience, And hopefully await the nearing crisis. [Enters Captain Kimble.] But see, who comes. What tidings, Captain Kimble? An officer, dispatched by Santa Anna And shielded by a flag of truce, stands waiting Before the gate. He bears from his commander A peaceful message which he will deliver To thee in private, witnesses excluded. I wish no secret dealings with the enemy; My subalterns are equally my friends. Though yearns my heart to know my brother's fate, I will not list to private negotiations. He says, unless he speak to thee in secret. He must return with object unaccomplished.