Feeling that all was being done that was possible for the rescue of his daughter, Sergeant Fallon, knowing his need of rest, followed Buffalo Bill’s example, and dropped off into a deep slumber.
Two soldiers and two scouts were awakened by the sentinel to get breakfast, and the others were allowed to sleep on until it was ready.
The meal disposed of, the horses were saddled, and, mounting, away they started on another mad ride.
Buffalo Bill was leading the command as guide and scout, and constantly by his side kept Sergeant Fallon, while Lieutenant Worth and Doctor Denmead were not far in the rear.
The halt was made at noon, but not for two hours, as a consultation and look at the horses showed that they were not yet used up, save two, that were left behind.
“They will get a rest when we reach the river to-night, so push them for all they are worth, Bill,” said the lieutenant.
“Yes, sir; and we must reach the river while it is daylight to find that trail, and so wait there, for he may come up in the night and go across,” answered Buffalo Bill.
The halt was, therefore, made at noon for an hour only, and yet the horses were stripped and rubbed down while they fed.
Then the party mounted again and pushed on, the scout setting even a faster pace than before. He was determined to strike the river above the upper ford, and from there up look for the trail coming out where the outlaw crossed. To do this, hard riding must be made.
Another horse dropped out during the afternoon, and a second soon after. They were left by the trail side.