Nothing at that moment could have pleased him more.

He blew out the parlor light, partially closed the door, and stepped forth on to the porch.
"Say, you," he said gruffly, dropping one hand heavily on the other's shoulder.

"Did you hear what I said to those fellows inside?
Well, it goes out here the same.

Pack up, and clear the deck." "Reb" dropped his feet to the floor and stood up, his bearded lips growling profanity, but Hamlin gripped his wrist, and the man stopped, with mouth still open, staring into the Sergeant's face.

All bravado seemed to desert him instantly.
"Who--who says so ?" and he stepped back farther into the shadow.
"I do, if you need to know," pleasantly enough.