I would have
you to tell them that Santa Anna means only their greatest good; that he
loves them as his children; that he is glad to have these strong, tall,
fair men in the north to fight for him and Mexico; that he is a man who
never breaks a promise; that he is the father of his people, and that he
loves them all with a heart full of tenderness. To show you how much I
trust and value you I would take your word that you would bear such a
message, and I would send you with an escort that would make your way
safe and easy."
Again he sent his piercing gaze into the eyes of the boy, but Ned was
still silent.
"You would tell them," said Santa Anna in the softest and most
persuasive tones, "that you have been much with me, that you know me,
and that no man has a softer heart or a more just mind."
"I cannot do it," said Ned.
"Why?"
"Because it is not so."
The change on the face of Santa Anna was sudden and startling. His eyes
became black with wrath, and his whole aspect was menacing. The hand of
Cos flew to the hilt of his sword, and he half rose from his chair. But
Santa Anna pushed him back, and then the face of the dictator quickly
underwent another transformation. It became that of the ruler, grave but
not threatening.
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