ed and stood by while they ate. They had
never received poor food, and to-night Mexican hospitality exerted
itself--at the insistence of Santa Anna, Ned surmised. 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. It was a mellow and satisfied laugh.

"So you are, Edward," he said, "and I am going with you. You will help
me to bear a message of peace and safety to the Texans."

Ned paused a moment, irresolute. There was no change in his
determination. He was merely uncertain about the words to use.

"There may be delays," he said at last, "and--Mr. Austin, I have decided
to go alone--and within the next day or two if I can."

The Texan's face clouded.

"I cannot understand you," he said. "Why this hurry? It would in reality
be a breach of faith to our great friend, Santa Anna--that is, if you
could go. I don't believe you can."

Ned was troubled. He was tempted to tell what was in his mind, but he
knew that he would not be believed, so he fell back again upon his
infinite capacity for silence. Mr. Austin read resolution in the closed
lips and rigid figure.

"Do you really mean that you will attempt to steal away?" he asked.

"As soon as I can."

The man shook his head.

"It would be better not to do so," he said, "bu