“It was the most natural thing in the world,” “Red” replied. “I stopped here on my way to Deer Lodge, and Brown, on being told of my destination, asked me to take a letter to Alex Carter and some friends. I knew no reason why I should refuse, and did so.”
Brown was then called in, and “Red” repeated the statement in his presence. Brown did not deny it, but betrayed by his blanched cheeks and trembling limbs that it was true. The captain, laying his hand upon his shoulder, and looking him steadily in the eye, said,
“Brown, you must consider yourself under arrest; we will at once proceed to a full investigation of this matter. It looks very dark for you.”
He was put under guard, to await the termination of the trial of “Red,” which was at once commenced. When this was over, Brown was subjected to a second examination before the entire company.
“Did you write this letter of warning?” inquired the captain.
“I did,” replied Brown.
“Why?”
“‘Red’ came to Dempsey’s and said he was going to see the boys, and asked me if I had any word to send them, offering to carry it for me. I wrote them that the Vigilantes were after them, and advised them to leave.”
No other explanation was given; and on their own confessions, and some additional proof showing that “Red” had made inconsistent statements to different persons belonging to the Vigilantes, while passing them on his return from Cottonwood, with a view to deceive them as to the whereabouts of Carter,—the company withdrew to the Stinking Water bridge, to decide upon the guilt or innocence of the prisoners.
“Boys,” said the captain, addressing the assemblage, “you have heard what these men have had to say for themselves. I want you to vote according to your consciences. If you think they ought to suffer punishment, say so; if you think they ought to go free, vote for it. Be very careful to do the right thing for yourselves, as well as for the prisoners. All those in favor of hanging them, step to the right side of the bridge; and those who are for letting them go, to the left side.”