But most think that he had such belief in his own power that he did indeed look to see these men bow to it, and lay down their arms then and there.

But none will ever know, by reason of what was to come.
"Throw down your arms!" he commanded again, when the laughter ceased.
His voice shook with rage.
"Stay!" said Thorleif.

"What is your authority ?" The question was put very courteously, if coldly, and it was common sense.
"I am the sheriff of Dorchester.

Whence are you that you should defy the king's officer ?" "Pardon," said Thorleif.

"It is only at this moment that we have learned that we have so great a man before us.