“You refuse as the commander of this district to obey the order of the Grand Wizard?” asked the tall quiet figure.
“I refuse, John Graham, to accept your word as the edict of God!” was the quick retort. “Our men can vote on this and decide for themselves.”
“Yes, vote on it!”
“We’ll decide for ourselves!”
The quick responses which came from all sides showed the temper of the men. John Graham stepped in front of the big leader of the district.
“Look here, Steve Hoyle, I want no trouble with you to-night, nor in the future—but I’m going to carry this order into execution here and now.”
“Let’s see you do it!” was the defiant answer.
“I will,” he continued. “Boys!”
There was the ring of conscious authority in his tones and the men responded with sharp attention.
“You have each sworn to obey your superior officer on the penalty of your life?”