Every one listened closely. They were the chief members of the temporary
Texan government, but the room in which they met was all of the
frontier. Its floor was of rough boards. Its walls and ceilings were
unplastered. There was not a single luxury and not all of the
necessities.
When Ned finished, Houston turned to the others and said quietly:
"Gentlemen, we all know that this is war. I think there need be no
discussion of the point. It seems necessary to send out more messengers
gathering up every Texan who will fight. Do you agree with me?"
All said yes.
"I think, too," said Houston, "that Santa Anna may now send Mr. Austin
back to us. He does not know how well informed we are, and doubtless he
will believe that such an act will keep us in a state of blindness."
"And you, my brave and resourceful young friend, what do you want to
do?"
"Fight under you."
Houston laughed and put his hand affectionately on the boy's shoulder.
"I see that there is something of the courtier in you, too," he said.
"It is not a bad quality sometimes, and you shall have the chance that
you ask, later on. But meanwhile, you and Mr. White would better rest
here, a while. You may have some scouting and skirmishing to do first.
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