In addition to the regular supper there was an ice and a bottle of Spanish wine.
"The President has just given an order that the greatest courtesy be shown to you at all times," said de Zavala, "and I am very glad.

I, too, have people in that territory of ours from which you come--Texas." He spoke with undeniable sympathy, and Ned felt his heart warm toward him, but he decided to say nothing.

He feared that he might betray by some chance word the plan that he had in mind.

But Mr.Austin, believing in others because he was so truthful and honest himself, talked freely.
"All our troubles will soon be over," he said to de Zavala.
"I hope so, Senor," said the young man earnestly.
By and by, when de Zavala and the soldier were gone, Ned went again to the window, stood there a few moments to harden his resolution, and then came back to the man.
"Mr.Austin," he said, "I am going to ask your consent to something." The Texan looked up in surprise.
"Why, Edward, my lad," he said kindly, "you don't have to ask my consent to anything, after the way in which you have already sacrificed yourself for me." "But I am not going to stay with you any longer, Mr.Austin--that is, if I can help it.

I am going back to Texas." Mr.Austin laughed.