"That is true, and it is Santa Anna who is our best friend."

Ned did not dispute the sanguine saying. He saw that Mr. Austin had his
opinion, and he had his. The door was opened again in a half hour and a
soldier brought them their supper. Young de Zavala, who was their
immediate guardian, also entered and stood by while they ate. They had
never received poor food, and to-night Mexican hospitality exerted
itself--at the insistence of Santa Anna, Ned surmised. In addition to the
regular supper there was an ice and a bottle of Spanish wine.

"The President has just given an order that the greatest courtesy be
shown to you at all times," said de Zavala, "and I am very glad. I, too,
have people in that territory of ours from which you come--Texas."

He spoke with undeniable sympathy, and Ned felt his heart warm toward
him, but he decided to say nothing. He feared that he might betray by
some chance word the plan that he had in mind. But Mr. Austin, believing
in others because he was so truthful and honest himself, talked freely.

"All our troubles will soon be over," he said to de Zavala.

"I hope so, Señor," said the young man earnestly.

By and by, when de Zavala and the soldier were gone, Ned went again to
the window, stood there a few moments to harden his resolution, and then
came back to the man.

"Mr. Austin," he said, "I am going to ask your consent to something."

The Texan looked up in surprise.