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Roger edged past the chief, only just avoiding pushing him with his shoulder. The yelling ceased, and Samneric lay looking up in quiet terror. Roger advanced upon them as one wielding a nameless authority. (11.231)
Here we see the tension between Roger and Jack, and also that, as bad as Jack is, Roger is the real one to look out for. Also, what is the “nameless authority?” Violence? Intimidation?
Her bows [were] hauled up and held by two ratings. In the stern sheets another rating held a sub-machine gun. (12.211)
The desire for power and the taking of power by violent means is not limited to the island.