They were encamped in a ravine, which a whole tribe on the march might pass near and never suspect the existence of.
It was a basin among the rocks, with a ravine for an exit and entrance.
Water and grass were there, and from the rocks above a commanding view could be obtained of the country in the direction of the hostiles' camp, and here were kept two sentinels, hidden from view themselves, yet able to see any one approaching from the Bad Lands.
The Indian sentinels saw the approach of their commander, and signaled it to their comrades in the basin.
At last he arrived, utterly worn out, and determined that as soon as he had had some breakfast he would throw himself upon his blankets to get what rest he could.
His scouts had seen nothing of the hostiles, and no party of Sioux making for the Bad Lands had passed within sight.
His courier had returned from the Bernard ranch, and brought him a note, which read as follows:
"Lieutenant Carey:
"Dear Sir.—Thanking you for your second warning by letter, I beg to say that I shall not leave my ranch, as I can see no reason for so doing, as I regard the Sioux as my friends, in spite of the war of the army upon them.
"Respectfully,