All wondered as they saw Colonel Dunwoody escorting a veiled lady in the direction of the cabin where Silk Lasso Sam was held a prisoner.
Captain Dick Caruth was officer of the day, and Colonel Dunwoody sent a soldier in search of him. He joined them at the barrier which shut off the prisoner’s cabin, and was introduced to Ruth, who still kept her veil concealing her face completely, for in spite of being dressed differently, and with her hair arranged in a different style from what she had worn it as Bonnie Belle, the captain had seen her at Pocket City, and she did not wish to be recognized.
Then, too, she desired also to avoid Buffalo Bill and Surgeon Frank Powell, who also knew her well, and might recognize her as Bonnie Belle.
Captain Caruth bowed low, heard what the colonel had to say, and at once said:
“I will report to the prisoner his sister’s coming, Colonel Dunwoody, and”—turning to Ruth—“if I can serve you in any way command me during your stay here, Miss Arden.”
“You are all so good to me,” was the low reply.
Captain Caruth at once hastened on ahead and coming to the sentinel, he said:
“Sentinel, march forty paces from the cabin and take up your beat there, for there is a lady to see the prisoner alone.”
The sentinel saluted and obeyed, and opening the cabin door Captain Caruth entered.
Silk Lasso Sam greeted him politely, while he said in a tone in which there was some sarcasm: