Two troops of the Eighth Cavalry under Captain E. G. Fechet were to be stationed on the trail part way to Sitting Bull's camp, in readiness to support Lieutenant Bull Head, if necessary.
The Ghost Dancers had been guarding Sitting Bull's house, for several nights; but this night of December 14 they had danced until they were tired out.
When before sunrise in the morning Lieutenant Bull Head led his troops into the camp, few persons were stirring. Before the camp, which extended several miles along the Grand River, could pass the word that the police were there, Lieutenant Bull Head had rapidly thrown a line of dismounted police around the houses of Sitting Bull.
There were two log cabins, one larger than the other. The police did not know in which cabin Sitting Bull would be found. Lieutenant Bull Head ordered eight policemen to enter the smaller cabin; he and First Sergeant Shave Head and ten other policemen entered the larger cabin.
Sitting Bull was here, asleep on the floor, with his two wives and his son Crow Foot, seventeen years old.
His wives saw the police standing over them, and began to cry. Sitting Bull sat up.
"What is wanted?" he asked, but he knew very well.
Lieutenant Bull Head briefly told him.
"You are under arrest, and must go to the agency."
"Very well," answered Sitting Bull, calmly. "I will dress and go with you."