"The Texan Scouts: A Story of the Alamo and Goliad" by Joseph A. Altsheler is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story focuses on young Ned Fulton and his companions as they navigate the tumultuous landscape of Texas during its fight for independence from Mexico, encountering treachery and bravery along the way. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Ned, who is scouting along a river during a fierce winter storm. His resourcefulness is on display as he searches for shelter, ultimately finding refuge from the freezing winds with his loyal horse, Old Jack. As he rests, he spots a group of Mexican horsemen, signaling the return of the enemy, and his resolve to warn others becomes evident. The opening establishes a gripping atmosphere filled with tension and danger, setting the stage for the adventures that leave Ned and his companions on a quest to confront the forces threatening their land. (This is an automatically generated summary.)