"My two friends and I--" "Oh, dear no," said the official.

"He is fully up to his work." So we moved our chairs into position for a better view.
The guard advanced fox-terrierwise to within about six paces of Coutlass.
"Up with both your 'ands, Thermopylea!" he snapped.

"Your bloomin' reckonin's come!" Coutlass showed tobacco-stained teeth for answer, and his friends rutched their chairs clear of the table, ready for action.

Yet they were taken unawares.

With a terrier's speed the guard pounced on Coutlass, seized him by the hair and collar, hurled him, chair and all, under a side-table, and was on the far side of the table kicking his prostrate victim in the ribs before either Greek or Goanese--likewise upset in the sudden onslaught--could gather themselves and interfere.
The Goanese was first on his feet.