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Next day, as a bobby solemnly directed traffic at one of the few major crossroads, Anguillians stirred themselves into a public demonstration. Webster, mounted on a motor bike, brandished the orange, white and turquoise flag of the "republic," and some of his fellow islanders waved signs reading "Brutish British Go Home" as they marched past the red-roofed school where the occupiers had set up temporary headquarters.
Dubious Victory. All foreigners, including some Americans, were interrogated. Jack Holcomb, a 40-year-old Florida businessman suspected of having undue influence over Webster, was deported, vigorously protesting his innocence. The Rev. Freeman Goodge, pastor of the Anguilla Baptist Church, was questioned about alleged connections with the Mafia. His home was searched, he reported. "They went through the chicken coop, even searched my wife's underwear and went through a new Bible leaf by leaf."
By week's end London obviously had misgivings. The Defense Ministry, also known as "the Minigon," said that some chutists would soon be replaced by about 100 engineer troops. In Anguilla, some 300 islanders staged a tumultuous demonstration at occupation headquarters, mauling British Commissioner Lee and all but taking over the offices. One woman reported that Lee bit her arm when she reached into his car. For Britain it was precisely the sort of dubious victory that accords with the reality of its reduced state in the world. It could also signal a new role for the British—as the world's Keystone cops.