One thing I added, however--that they must conquer or they must die.

There was no mercy for them; it was a case of death or victory.

Their spokesman--for these people always find a spokesman--answered that they thanked me for my advice; that they understood, and that they would do their best.

Then they lifted their spears to me in salute.

A wild lot of men they looked in the moonlight as they departed to take shelter behind the rocks and trees and wait.
That waiting was long, and I confess that before the end it got upon my nerves.