“Yes; five warriors, and four of them Buffalo Bill killed in rescuing Lawrence and Sibyl.”
“Strange, indeed; and it was the noted scout who told you of the character of Red Dick?”
“Yes, he exposed him publicly; and they would have had a knife encounter in camp, had not Sibyl interfered. Then the scout drove the guide from the encampment, and an hour after Red Dick returned at the head of his Dog Soldiers.”
“And what became of the scout, major?”
“He swam the river, and ran the gantlet of the Indian line most gallantly, that he might seek some friendly Indians and bring them to our aid.”
“He has certainly served you well. He is always doing noble work, such as this! But how are the ladies, major?”
“Stout-hearted, as are the men; but come, we will go and see them, captain.”
Leading the way, Major Conrad conducted the young officer toward the large ravine running back from the river. There a motley sight met their gaze, for the women and children were huddled together in the bottom of the gulch, around several bright fires, and farther down were closely packed the horses and cattle belonging to the train.
“Why, they are all as snug as bugs in a rug, major,” laughed Captain la Clyde; and, as the firelight fell full upon him, it displayed his handsome, graceful form, a little under six feet in height, and compactly built.
His face was exceedingly youthful, beardless, the features good, the mouth and dark-blue eyes indicating courage and determination.