"I? You are in error, Colonel. To do that I must have been a Mexican, which is not the case, thank Heaven! I served my country as you serve yours, that is all; each for himself in a revolution, you know."
"That proverb may suit you, Master Davis, I grant, but I only know one way of acting honourably, with uplifted head."
"Hum! There would be a good deal to say on that head, but it is not the question at this moment. The proof that you are mistaken and unjust toward me is, that a few minutes ago I held your life in my hands, and was unwilling to take it."
"You were wrong, for I swear to you that unless you defend yourself I shall take yours in a second," he said, as he cocked a pistol.
"You are in earnest, then?"
"Most earnest, he assured."
"You are mad," said Davis, with a shrug of his shoulders; "what strange idea is this of yours to insist on killing me?"
"Will you defend yourself; yes or no?"
"Wait a moment. What a man you are! There is no way of having an explanation with you."
"One word, then, but be brief."