Page:The Fall of the Alamo.djvu/180

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166
THE FALL OF THE ALAMO

A steady friend in our misfortunes: this
Ignited by thine hand, who canst not join
Our last exploit, shall light our way to heaven.

Bowie.

Thanks, Travis! that thy tender thoughtfulness
Assigned to me, disabled as I am,
This office in the Alamo's defence.

Travis.

By my command the channels have been laid
Through which the fiery element shall crawl
With lightning's speed, and leave no stone unturned;
None save this chapel! Towering o'er the ruins.
It be the likeness of our destiny.
That testifies with silent eloquence:
As it survives the Alamo's debris,
So shall our fame outlive our overthrow.

[Enters Major Evans.]

Evans.

The Alamo lies open to the foe:
The northern side has fallen, and the eastern gate
Is swaying more and more with every shot.
Our faithful walls, which long withstood, at last
Have bowed their heads and sunk as heroes sink.
To us is left to follow their example.

Travis.

Yes, valiant friend! that is what we shall do.