It appeared that two light-footed soldiers had been teasing a huge, bearded man, causing him to spill coffee upon his blue knees.
The man had gone into a rage and had sworn comprehensively.

Stung by his language, his tormentors had immediately bristled at him with a great show of resenting unjust oaths.

Possibly there was going to be a fight.
The friend arose and went over to them, making pacific motions with his arms.

"Oh, here, now, boys, what's th' use ?" he said.

"We'll be at th' rebs in less'n an hour.