Weston and Sceranka ran to a position in front of their men, who handed them the only two axes in camp.
"All right!" Weston shouted. "I thought this party would turn out this way. From now on, I'll run this show! You're going to shut your traps and listen to me!"
The remaining officers and servicemen, plus many of the older male civilian members of the camp, were gathering swiftly into a sullen crowd, facing Weston's bowmen.
"When we charge 'em," whispered one officer, "throw sand in their eyes and let 'em have it!"
"Just a minute," said Uncle Andy to all the members of his own group. "All this happened because we failed to recognize the man's ignorance. Let him talk! Talk is cheaper than human lives. Let's hear what he has to say!"
"Well, Dearden," shouted Weston, "You're getting smart!—even if you are insulting. But I'll take care of you later!"
"All right!" agreed Burley. "Let him jabber!"
"Spill it, Weston!" shouted Merman. "We've got plenty of time around here. All our lives!"
"No we ain't!" Weston answered. "We ain't got no time at all. We think there's a way of gettin' back to where we came from! Hey, Mohammed!" he yelled at the Indian Prince. "You willing to come on my side and pay off like you said if I get you back home?"