They could see the lights of the German war-ships as they walked--an eloquent reminder.

And it was then that Tamasese proposed to sign the convention.

"It will give us peace for the day," said Laupepa, "and afterwards Great Britain must decide."-- "Better fight Germany than that!" cried Tuiatafu, speaking words of wisdom, and departed in anger.

But the two others proceeded on their fatal errand; signed the convention, writing themselves king and vice-king, as they now believed themselves to be no longer; and with childish perfidy took part in a scene of "reconciliation" at the German consulate.
Malietoa supposed himself betrayed by Tamasese.

Consul Churchward states with precision that the document was sold by a scribe for thirty-six dollars.