Alan observed that the spectators did not appear to appreciate the arrival amongst them of these priests, from whom they seemed to edge away.

Indeed many of them rose and tried to depart altogether, only to be driven back to their places by a double line of soldiers armed with spears, who now for the first time became visible, ringing in the audience.

Also other soldiers and with them bodies of men who looked like executioners, showed themselves upon the further brink of the water and then marched off, disappearing to left and right.
"What's the matter now ?" Alan asked of Jeekie over his shoulder.
"All in blue funk," whispered Jeekie back, "joke done.

Get to business now.

Silly fools forget that when they laugh so much.