He waited to see what it meant.

Alvarez regarded him in a sort of kindly contemplation, as a man would look upon a youth for whom he had benevolent plans.
"We have been enemies so far," he resumed in his winning tone, "you and your comrades against myself and my people.

But I have learned one thing, and I am confirmed in it by the opinion of others; boy as you are, you are the strongest and most dangerous of the five who oppose me; you are the leader." The words, although true, were those of compliment and flattery, and Henry felt the touch of poison in the silky tone.

He stiffened himself slightly as if he would resist a danger, unknown as yet, but all the more to be dreaded on that account.

He still remained silent.
"Yes, you are the strongest and the one most to be feared," continued Alvarez musingly, "I am not saying it to flatter you, but because it is a matter that I have weighed well for reasons pertaining to statecraft.
There sentiment or personal liking cannot count.