He heard two or three of them say "pobrecitos" (poor
fellows), and their use of the word struck upon his ear with an ominous
sound. He glanced back. Close behind the mass of prisoners rode a strong
squadron of cavalry with young Urrea at their head. Ned could not see
Urrea's face, which was hidden partly by a cocked and plumed hat, but he
noticed that the young Mexican sat very upright, as if he felt the pride
of authority. One hand held the reins, and the other rested on the
silver hilt of a small sword at his side.
A column of Mexican infantry marched on either side of the prisoners,
and only a few yards away. It seemed to Ned that they were holding the
Texans very close for men whom they were to release in a few hours.
Trusting the Mexicans in nothing, he was suspicious of everything, and
he watched with a gaze that missed no detail. But he seemed to be alone
in such thoughts. The recruits, enjoying the fresh air and the prospect
of speedy freedom, were talking much, and exchanging many jests.
They passed out of the little town, and the last Ned saw of it was the
Mexican women standing in the doorways and watching. They continued
along the road in double file, with the Mexican infantry still on either
side, and the Mexican cavalry in the rear.
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