Page:The Fall of the Alamo.djvu/141

 This theme's discussion until the return Of Colonel Bradburn from the Alamo. [Handing a purse to Prado.] Thou hast done well! Receive thy promised fee. I thank Your Excellency! [Aside and holding up the purse while Santa Anna is absorbed in meditation.] 'Tis not as large As when at first held out to me; but then: Time wrinkles brows and cheeks: why not a purse? Quick! summon General Almonte here. [Exit Prado.] You little thought, Miss Bradburn, when you made Your wish beknown to me, that each your word Gave me a stone in hand, wherewith to build Your prison-walls, where easily enough I shall your secret's knowledge wrest from you, As from his hound the hunter takes his prey. None but his equals will a lion combat, But when on his pursuit of royal game A mouse opposes him, then without pity He crushes her with one stroke of his paw. [Enters Almonte.