"Dead or prisoners," replied Fogg; "I must find out which. Is it your intention to pursue the Sioux?"
"That would be a very serious thing," replied the captain. "The Indians may retreat beyond the Arkansas, and I cannot leave the fort undefended."
"Sir," replied Fogg, "the lives of three men are in question."
"No doubt; but can I risk fifty to save three?"
"I do not know if you can, sir; but I know you ought."
"Sir," replied the captain, "no one here is fit to teach me my duty."
"Very well," said Fogg coldly, "I will go alone."
"You, sir!" exclaimed Fix, who now approached. "Do you mean to go alone in pursuit of the Indians?"
"Do you wish me to leave that unfortunate man to perish to whom everyone here owes his life? I shall certainly go."
"No, sir, you shall not go alone," said the captain, who was moved in spite of himself. "You are a brave fellow. Now, then, thirty volunteers," he added, turning to the troops.