human
Yes, said the engineer, who saw the glance;
gpt
But you wouldn't shoot anyone, Mr Marston?
human
Indeed but we would, or any two, sir. It's a case of self-defence. There, Dick, don't look at me as if I were a bloodthirsty savage. I have got all these muskets down and shown my men how to use them, and I am letting it be known that we are prepared.
gpt
Seems rather horrible,
human
More horrible for your father to be shot, Dick, and for people to be burned in their beds, eh!
gpt
Ever so much, cried Tom.
human
You shoot 'em all, Mr Marston.
gpt
Precaution is better than cure, Tom, said the engineer smiling.
human
Now that we are prepared, you will see that we shall not be interfered with, and my arming the men will save bloodshed instead of causing it.
gpt
Think so, sir?
human
I am sure of it, my lad. Besides, if I had not done something, my men would not have stayed. Even Bargle said it was getting too warm. He said he was not afraid, but he would not stay. So here we are ready for the worst: self-defence, my lads. And now let's go and get a few ducks for dinner. They are pretty plentiful, and my men like them as well as I.