Initializing alerts

[Henry Finkelstein]

Total newb question: I have both the carousel and alerts on my page, and I 
have no problem initializing the carousel but seem to have trouble with the 
alert.  I've included the js file, and here is my initializing script

  <script type="text/javascript"> 
    $(document).ready(function(){ 
      $('#myCarousel').carousel('cycle');
      $(".alert").alert();
    });
  </script>

and my alert:
    <div class= "alert alert-success fade in">
      <a class= "close" data-dismiss="alert">×</a> 
      Thank you, we received your information and will be in touch with you 
shortly. 
    </div>

I see the alert and (x) just fine, but can't close it.  What am I missing?

Thanks!