"I salute you as gallant foes," said Urrea in good English, taking off his hat. "My comrades and associates here are Colonel Salas, Lieutenant Colonel Holzinger and Lieutenant Gonzales, who are sent with myself by my uncle, General Urrea, to inquire into the meaning of the white flag that you have hoisted."
Each of the Mexican officers, as his name was called, took off his hat and bowed.
"I am Colonel Fannin," began the Texan leader.
All four Mexicans instantly bowed again.
"And you are wounded," said Urrea. "It shows the valor of the Texans, when their commander himself shares their utmost dangers."
Fannin smiled rather grimly.
"There was no way to escape the dangers," he said. "Your fire was heavy."
Urrea smiled in a gratified way, and then waited politely for Fannin to continue. The leader at once began to treat with the Mexican officers. Ned, Durangue and Urrea translated, and the boy did not miss a word that was said. It was agreed that the Texans should surrender, and that they should be treated as prisoners of war in the manner of civilized nations. Prompt and special attention would be given to the wounded.
Then the Mexican officers saluted courteously and went back toward their own ranks. It had all seemed very easy, very simple, but Ned did not like this velvet smoothness, this willingness of the Mexicans to agree to the most generous terms. Fannin, however, was elated. He had won no victories, but he had saved the lives of his men.