I speak as a friend." "My heart to yours! But let me tell you this about the Americans--their drum is in the hands of one who knows how to beat it." "As a matter of hearsay, are you aware that three detachments of troops are on their way from Mexico ?" "For Texas ?" "For Texas." "What are three detachments?
Can a few thousand men put Texas under lock and key?
I assure you not, Senor; but now I must say adieu!" He took the doctor's hand, and, as he held it, turned his luminous face and splendid eyes upon Antonia.

A sympathetic smile brightened her own face like a flame.

Then he went silently away, and Antonia watched him disappear among the shrubbery.
"Come, Antonia! I am ready.

We must not keep the Senora waiting too long." "I am ready also, father." Her voice was almost sad, and yet it had a tone of annoyance in it--"Don Luis is so imprudent," she said.

"He is always in trouble.