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54 Four miles from the 'battle grounds' now and then the Missions of Concepcion & San José seen down the valley, brought us to San Antonio de Bejar. As we approached we caught glimpses of the ruins of the Alamo, the towering steeple of the church & houses on the other side of the river through the dense foliage in the valley beneath us. Entering the town by the Eastern suburbs, the sparkling waters of the river from a thousand springs is easily forded. Not long since there was a bridge above the ford, but some heavy rains, undermined the stone work at the ends, & now even it is inconvenient to foot passengers after crossing the river. The Main street of the town presents itself & the plaza or great Square easily attained.

 The arrival of so large a party created an unusual stir: each soon fund the abode of his friend or acquaintance where he was hospitably received - The Sun was sinking into the 

77 34 western horizon. The Vesper bell tolled - the pious romanists went to evening prayer, we as they call us heritics to our suppers & then to rest.

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