Page:The Fall of the Alamo.djvu/39

 Had lightly tapped my shoulder, [Smiling embarrassedly.] It was nought, Nought save perhaps a draught, an ocean-breeze. I'll close the window! In the act of shutting it he looks without.] Ha! what means that flash Of sunny light, like a reflex of arms? And moves not there a band of weaponed men. In far off distance o'er the hazy plain? [Seizeing a telescope he surveys the neighborhood.] Once more my fancy has belied my eye; It is a forest-isle I so mistook That mute and still lies on the prairie's breast. Still, as precaution is the sire of wisdom, I'll go and send my cavalry to scour The country o'er, and order to enforce The guards upon the walls and at the gates.

When Bradburn goes toward the door., Elsie enters.

My father, stay! grant me a moment's hearing!

Defer, I pray, till later thy request; For urgent business claims my presence elsewhere.