"When the Mexicans were pressing us sorely, he fought as stoutly and well as any in our ranks.

He is well skilled in the use of the sword, which is wonderful, seeing that the Mexicans among whom he has been brought up are but poor hands with that weapon; and both with thrust and point he showed himself perfectly at home with the heavy blade the general gave him.

I saw him pressed at one time by four Mexicans together, and was making to his assistance.

But there was no need for it.

He ran one through the body, and with heavy downright blows, well-nigh cleft the heads of two others; and the fourth, with a cry of astonishment and fear, sprang back into the crowd.
"But though he fought so stoutly when attacked, he showed less ardor in the assault, and lagged behind when we were pursuing the enemy." "I like him none the worse for that, Juan," Pedro said.