In either case he would possess an overwhelming advantage.
With the same calculating attention to detail that he would have shown in the arrangement of plans for the building of a tunnel or a bridge, he drew a mental map of his scheme and its possibilities.

There would be at least two men with the sledge, and possibly three.

If they surrendered at the point of his rifle without a fight he would compel Jean to tie them up with dog-traces while he held them under cover.

If they made a move to offer resistance he would shoot.

With the automatic he could kill or wound the three before they could reach their rifles, which would undoubtedly be on the sledge.