In Barracks and Wigwam — page 233: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

CHAPTER XXXVI. THE FIGHT AT DAYBREAK. It wanted a quarter to three o’clock when the interview between Linn and Major Dallas ended. The latter hastily summoned his officers, and communicated to them what | - he had heard. A brief discussion followed, and all quick- ly agreed on what seemed to them the best measures to be taken. | “We can do no-better, gentlemen, at such short notice,” said the major. “I am inclined to think, however, that ~ the opportunity is a promising one, and that it may end the campaign. It is understood, then, that we shall ad- — vance northward to meet Flying Thunder’s band, and try to fall upon them unawares. One troop will remain to guard the camp, and if attacked by Gray Fox—which I regard as unlikely—they can hold out until our return. And now lose no time in carrying out your orders. We must start in twenty minutes, if possible.” Instructions were obeyed with as much alacrity and pre- caution as Major Dallas could have desired. In five min- utes every trooper was on his feet, eager to march against the enemy. KRapidly, but with silence, the horses were unstaked and saddled, arms and equipments were inspect- ed, and cartridges were distributed in large quantities. The embers of the fires were extinguished, and mounted s patrols were sent out north and south. While these preparations were going on the camp was * ‘put in shape for defense. A small square was marked (eo) out, having ton) its rear side the B preripntcns ONT m.