Now, Snell, back here to the right of me." It was no wonder to me to see how instantly Steele was obeyed.

He might have seen more danger in that moment than was manifest to me; on the other hand he might have wanted to drive home hard what he meant.
It was a critical moment for those who opposed him.

There was death in the balance.
This Ranger, whose last resort was gun-play, had instantly taken the initiative, and his nerve chilled even me.

Perhaps though, he read this crowd differently from me and saw that intimidation was his cue.

I forgot I was not a spectator, but an ally.
"Sampson, you've shown your hand," said Steele, in the deep voice that carried so far and held those who heard.