Ned felt that he was in the presence of genius, but it belonged to one of those sinuous creatures, shining and terrible, that are bred under the vivid sun of the tropics.

There was a singular sensation at the roots of his hair, but, resolved to show neither fear nor apprehension, he stood and gazed directly at Santa Anna.
"Be seated, Mr.Austin," said the General, "and close the door, de Zavala, but remain with us.

Your young relative can remain, also.

I have things of importance to say, but it is not forbidden to him, also, to hear them." Ned sat down and so did Mr.Austin and young de Zavala, but Santa Anna remained standing.

It seemed to Ned that he did so because he wished to look down upon them from a height.