I went over to the door and watched Albert and his mother walking away into the darkness. I knew then that I had found a friend for life, that there was an instinctive and immediate bond of trust and affection between us.
-- Joey (Chapter 1)

Importance: When Joey is purchased by Albert’s father, Albert is thrilled. He tells Joey that Joey will be the smartest horse ever, and that they will have a good time together. Despite his parents’ dismissal, Albert insists horses can indeed understand him. This is proved to be correct when Joey recognizes that he will have a good friend in Albert.

Mother says there’s likely to be a war… But I tell you, Joey, if there is a war I’d want to go. I think I’d make a good solider…. If it comes to that, you’d make a good war horse yourself, wouldn’t you...
-- Albert (Chapter 2)