He put a hand on Ned's shoulder, and apparently he did not notice that the shoulder became rigid under his touch.
"I like you," he said, "I like your courage, your truth, and your bluntness.

You Texans, or rather you Americans,--because the Texans are Americans,--have some of the ruder virtues which we who are of the Spanish and Latin blood now and then lack.

You are only a boy, but you have in you the qualities that can make a career.

The Texans belong to Mexico.

Your loyalty is due to Mexico and to me.