PuppyLov,
Where in Texas is this breeder? How old will the puppy be when it is shipped? If the breeder ships at less than 12 weeks, find another breeder no matter how much you want this Maltese. If Bently's mom has visited this breeder, find out what she saw there. Personally, I would never ship a puppy unless someone accompanied him/her. I just question a breeder who would. Think about it. Puppy in crate in luggage hold in plane. Flight delays, human error by airline, etc. Shudder!
Ideally, you want to visit the breeder to see if reality matches the web site information given. The now-infamous Hollybelle kennel talked a good talk on her web site but had over 200 de-barked and maltreated Maltese in her garage being bred over and over and over. But, that's another soapbox. I just don't want you to be heartbroken over a puppy who becomes ill or dies from poor breeding practices.
malteseonly.com has a breeders list that is a good reference, too. Best wishes and good luck.