In
response a dozen strange blacks entered the tent. They, too, were
powerful, clean-limbed men, not at all like the mangy crew that
followed the Swedes.
"We have had enough foolishness," said the stranger to Malbihn.
"You deserve death, but I am not the law. I know now who you are.
I have heard of you before. You and your friend here bear a most
unsavory reputation. We do not want you in our country. I shall
let you go this time; but should you ever return I shall take the
law into my own hands. You understand?"
Malbihn blustered and threatened, finishing by applying a most
uncomplimentary name to his captor. For this he received a shaking
that rattled his teeth. Those who know say that the most painful
punishment that can be inflicted upon an adult male, short of
injuring him, is a good, old fashioned shaking. Malbihn received
such a shaking.
"Now get out," said the stranger, "and next time you see me remember
who I am," and he spoke a name in the Swede's ear--a name that more
effectually subdued the scoundrel than many beatings--then he gave
him a push that carried him bodily through the tent doorway to
sprawl upon the turf beyond.
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