Santa Anna believed himself to be the greatest man in the world, and he was certainly the greatest in Mexico.
His belief in himself was based upon a deep well of energy and daring.
Once more Ned felt a great and terrible fear for Texas, and the thin line of skin-clad hunters and ranchmen who were its sole defence.

But the feeling passed as he watched Santa Anna.

A young officer rushed forward and held his stirrup as the dictator dismounted.

Then the generals, including those who had come with him, crowded around him.

It was a brilliant company, including Sesma, Cos, Duque, Castrillon, Tolsa, Gaona and others, among whom Ned noted a man of decidedly Italian appearance.