The lieutenant and his bride advanced rapidly to greet the scout and his pards, and general congratulations followed.
Mrs. Sherley came forward and was introduced, and soon announced that a luncheon, which had been prepared in anticipation of the event, was ready to be served.
And what a joyous occasion it was.
The young officer anxiously asked about everything at the fort, and was told of all the news, including the attack on the supply train.
Lieutenant Avery declared that he was well enough to go on duty now, and he would return to the fort as soon as the general would send horses.
The scout promised to convey the message, and said he would guide an escort to the Sacred Mountain for the officer and his wife.
“If there were any means of sending word to the fort we should be pleased to have Buffalo Bill and his pards remain with us until the Lieutenant and Mrs. Avery return,” said Miss Mona.
Cayuse promptly offered to take the message, but Buffalo Bill demurred, saying that he presumed it would be best for all to return to the fort, on account of the horses.
Little Moonbeam instantly overcame that objection by saying:
“In our farming operations Mrs. Sherley and I have had use for an Indian corn knife and secured one. With that we can easily cut grass here and carry it to the horses. The cavern at the outer end of the passage is large enough for all of them, and no roving band of Indians would find them there. If they did they would not dare touch them.