Page:Hugh Pendexter--Tiberius Smith.djvu/334

 Their news was worst of all. They said the heathens had produced her lordship in view of all and had threatened to kill her if her friends didn't beat a retreat.

"‘If we show violence she's lost,' sobbed one of the men.

"The captain was dazed. He was brave enough and would gladly fight to the last gasp; but he didn't want to recover Miss Mary dead. He tried to mumble something about strategy, and Tib caught it. It was the psychological moment for him.

"‘If you'll turn the management of this show over to me I'll go and get her,' he said, simply.

"Some jeered him in wild anger, some eyed him in amazement, and others were ready to grasp at any suggestion.

"‘I mean it,' he repeated, firmly, drawing up his fat form and beginning to radiate heart waves. 'Force will avail nothing, except to kill the lady. Do as I say and let the galleries back me and a few of my men, and I honestly believe we can turn the riffle.' "Discipline was lost sight of as all clamored for pointers. 'Hoist up a few mowing-machines from the hold, drop twice as many horses over into the surf, while the carpenters are knocking together a float. Then ferry the grass-clippers ashore and