Now that Ned saw him in the full daylight he understood more clearly than ever that this was indeed a most uncommon man.

The brow and eyes belonged to one who thought, planned and organized.

He spoke little and made no complaint, but when he looked at Ned he said: "You are young, my boy, to live among such dangers.

Why do you not go north into the states where life is safe ?" "There are others as young as I, or younger, who have fought or will fight for Texas," said Ned.

"I belong here and I've got powerful friends.