Only the two juniors, Lieutenant-Colonel Bennet and Major Wells, had voted to go forward.
“I didn’t think that of Burleson and Sherman and Rusk and Somervell,” exclaimed Jim. “Did you? They’ve been wanting to fight, all the time.”
“Look at the general,” bade Ernest. “What’s up?”
For Deaf Smith and Moses Lapham, another scout, were sitting their saddles, each with an ax in hand, and listening to the general. Deaf Smith held his palm behind his ear, the better to catch the words. He nodded, understandingly, and wheeled his horse.
“Fly back like eagles,” directed the general, “or that beautiful prairie grass will be crimsoned before your return.”
Deaf Smiths leathery face broke into a wrinkled smile.
“Looks a good deal like a fight, general,” he called, over his shoulder.
Out he and Moses Lapham galloped, for the west, followed by four other scouts.
“I know!” blurted Jim. “They’re going to cut down Vince’s Bridge and pocket Santa Anna and Cos complete!”
“And stop any more reinforcements,” added Ernest.