Page:The Fall of the Alamo.djvu/90

 And see to it, that this most precious hostage Of Fortune is not lost to us. Away! [Castrillon, Duque and Almonte bring J. Travis away.]

Santa Anna., Cos and Bradburn remain. Santa Anna. I have retained thee, Colonel Bradburn, here To trust thee with a charge, I hide it not, As delicate, as difficult, but as: "The greatest task becomes the greatest mind," This mission, well performed by thee, will add Another palm of merit to the many Which Mexico has entered to thy credit Upon the ledger of her gratitude. [Aside] The ledger, yes! but not the cash account. It is my wish, that under flag of truce Thou instantly start for the Alamo, And there arrived, demand the fort's surrender With all its men and arms. But am I right? The task appears not pleasant quite to thee. Make me the leader of the Forlorn Hope,