In another moment Terence's wrists and ankles were free and the rifle in his grasp, while George once more flourished his famous club, rightly judging that its moral effect would be considerable, while as to its physical possibilities there was no doubt whatever.
In another moment Terence's wrists were free,
and the rifle in his grasp (page 106).
These things done in the space of a second or two, George began to harangue the Maoris, but Winata Pakaro cut into his first words with:
'Stand aside, Hortoni! We wish not to injure you; but this man must die.'
'Stand you back, O Winata Pakaro!' retorted George. 'This man is my brother in all but blood, and I say that he shall not die.'
There was a roar of incredulous laughter at what the chiefs took to be an expedient lie, and Winata muttered a hasty order over his shoulder.
'Look out!' cried George, suspecting his design. 'Fire as he jumps.'
But a long whistle shrilled from Winata's lips, and he flung himself flat on the ground as the Maoris made an ugly rush forward and Terence's rifle spoke.