Old Broadbrim could not take him to Perth, that would be folly, for one man cannot successfully fight against twenty stalwart Australian ranchers.
Old Broadbrim continued to clutch Merle's wrist and to look into his eye defiantly.
He suddenly twisted the weapon from the murderer's hand and thrust him into a chair.
"Silence, as thee value thy life, man!" he said, bending over his prey.
Merle gave him a look of braggadocia, but did not speak.
"I know what thee is thinking about," continued the Quaker detective. "This is Ranch Robin; thee thinks thyself safe here."
"You cannot take me away."
"We'll see. In the first place, thee will obey me."
"Proceed. Issue your first command."
Merle was getting back his old courage.