“I shall not call him my master, for only one man was ever my master.”

Though Joey passes through many owners over the years of his life, his loyalty to Albert is established from the beginning. This phrase, used before Albert is even introduced, foreshadows the depth of Joey and Albert’s friendship.

“A yearling colt and a young boy have more in common than awkward gawkishness.”

The line between man and horse is frequently blurred throughout the novel, but never so much as it is when comparing Joey and Albert. As the two of them grow up, the similarities in their personalities become more evident. Both are spirited fighters, loyal, and brave. Their shared qualities make them the strongest of friends and enable them to understand one another in ways no one else can.

“I just hope I’m up to it when the time comes—that’s what worries me more than anything, Joey. Because I tell you, and I haven’t even told Jamie this—I’m frightened as hell, so you’d better have enough courage for the two of us.”

Joey becomes a confidante for each of the soldiers that ride him. They feel they can tell Joey their darkest worries and secrets, things they wouldn’t even admit to their best friends. Here, Joey proves to not only be a source of comfort as a listening ear but a source of strength. Just as Joey must lean on Topthorn for strength, Captain Nicholls leans on Joey. Friendship is essential to those fighting in a war, for these friends find strength and courage in each other.