How we cite our quotes: (Paragraph)
Quote #1
It was, as Bill afterward expressed it, "during a moment of temporary mental apparition"; but we didn't find that out till later. (1)
The Oxford dictionary defines an apparition as "the appearance of something remarkable or unexpected." Bill is right that this tale is both those things.
Quote #2
We weren't afraid he'd run away. He kept us awake for three hours, jumping up and reaching for his rifle and screeching, "Hist! pard," in mine and Bill's ears, as he fancied the crackle of a twig or the rustle of a leaf revealed to his young imagination the stealthy approach of the outlaw band. (23)
You would think that kidnappers would be terrified that their captive would escape, but Sam and Bill both realize that this is not a concern for them. Johnny seems to consider himself a part of their posse, guarding them with his keen senses while they sleep. Their plan already seems to be unraveling at the seams.
Quote #3
I fell into a troubled sleep, and dreamed that I had been kidnapped and chained to a tree by a ferocious pirate with red hair. (23)
Sam's finally starting to feel the pressure that poor Bill has been saddled with. Johnny is beginning to haunt his nightmares, and we begin to see that the boys really do not have anything under control.