He rode at once to Apia, and summoned his chiefs.

The council lasted all night long.
Many voices were for defiance.

But Laupepa had grown inured to a policy of procrastination; and the answer ultimately drawn only begged for delay till Saturday, the 27th.

So soon as it was signed, the king took horse and fled in the early morning to Afenga; the council hastily dispersed; and only three chiefs, Selu, Seumanu, and Le Mamea, remained by the government building, tremulously expectant of the result.
By seven the letter was received.

By 7.30 Becker arrived in person, inquired for Laupepa, was evasively answered, and declared war on the spot.