The push was effectual.

Watson was a man whose experience at the mines had taught him to rouse at once.

He just heard Joe say: "Hush!" "What are you so long about ?" demanded Rafferty suspiciously.
"I've got a revolver," said Joe unexpectedly; "and, if you don't leave the room, I'll fire!" With an oath, Rafferty, who was no coward, sprang upon Joe, and it would have gone hard with him but for Watson.

The latter was now broad awake.

He seized Rafferty by the collar, and, dashing him backward upon the floor, threw himself upon him.
"Two can play at that game!" said he.