CHAPTER XX.
The discovery of the file of Indian horsemen by Kit Carey and his two Cheyenne scouts, at once put an end to the intention of the officer of boldly entering the camps of the hostiles.
To dismount and grasp the noses of their horses, to prevent their neighing, and stand as motionless as the rocks about them, was the work of a second, and the lieutenant and his two Cheyenne soldiers in the gloom of the night, though in full sight of the passing horsemen appeared like the rocks about them.
There was no retreat behind them, for the way was impassable, and to go to the right or left, up or down the ridge, meant discovery.
They had been fairly caught, and in the worst position for them that could be found anywhere.
If the Indian horsemen took them in at a glance, as rocks, in the darkness, and so passed on, all was well; but if discovered then it must be a fight to the death.
Holding a position for defense at least, and their number not known to the officer and his redskin soldiers, might, by a hot fire, put the Sioux to flight, thus giving them an opportunity to get away themselves.
But if not, then they must remain and fight it out right there.