Then he helped Rose Carter to a seat on Midnight, and swung up himself behind her, and, Rose’s father being seated in the saddle vacated so recently by one of the outlaws, the journey was begun.
CHAPTER LIII.
BUFFALO BILL’S DEFENSE.
In his private quarters at the fort sat General Canton, the commandant of the chain of forts upon the far frontier. He was engaged in reading dispatches just arrived, and his brow was dark, his look troubled, as though the news therein contained was not pleasant.
Around the general were signs of comfort, and even luxury, for his quarters were well furnished, and books and musical instruments were there with which to while away leisure moments.
Touching a small bell, an orderly soon appeared at the door.
“See if Major Belden is sufficiently recovered from his fatiguing trip to come to me.”
“Yes, sir,” and the orderly vanished, to return in a few moments with the information that the major would come at once.
Soon after the major put in an appearance at the general’s quarters, and was motioned to a seat.