According to John Tvedtnes, although chapter 29 of Alma is usually understood to comprise Alma's words in first person, it is likely that Mormon actually began quoting from Alma's record in Alma 28:8-9, where we have a prefacelike colophon (both verses begin with the words "and this is the account"). The reader should note the present tense of the verbs. For example, "from the first year to the fifteenth has brought to pass" (Alma 28:10), "many thousands are mourning for the loss of their kindred" (Alma 28:11), and "they rejoice and exult in the hope" (Alma 28:12). [John A. Tvedtnes, The Voice of an Angel," in Book of Mormon Authorship Revisited, F.A.R.M.S., p. 320]
The Lord Redeems His Covenant Children
Alma 1 -- Alma 44