F 594 L66 Copy 1 illiiliiilllllllliillllllilliillliliiiliitlilllilliilllllllilllllllllllliilllilliiilliilllillllilllliilili^^^ FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS PRICE FIFTY CENTS THRILLING STORIES OF AN AMER- ICAN SCOUT ON THE WESTERN PLAINS IN THE OLD DAYS :-: :.: S^^ By H. E. LEWIS American Scout on the Frontier During the 70's nlllllllllilillilllllltliillillilillliililliillillllillilltliililiilillilillliifHilllllilillllMlllilin FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS THRILLING STORIES OF AN AMER- ICAN SCOUT ON THE WESTERN PLAINS IN THE OLD DAYS :-: •-: By H. E. LEWIS Copyright 1922 by H. E. LEWIS Rossville, Ga. PREFACE To My Readers : This book consists of my travels and my ex- periences as a scout, with Colonel Miles, from the year 1872 until 1874. It was during these years that the Indians were giving the govern- ment most trouble. I will also say that this book is absolutely the truth. It contains no fiction, but is a straight forward history of my adventures. I, as a scout, was associated with William (Buffalo Bill), and Amous Chapman. These you have no doubt read a great deal after. After I was wounded in my last fight, with the Indians in Kansas, I was sent to Arizona, where I continued in the government service for several years. This story I will publish at a fu- ture date, providing it is the Lord's will- Very truly yours, . H. E. LEWIS, .if Author. 0)CI.A661731 m -3 1922 FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS CHAPTER I. In October, 1872, we were buffalo hunting in Kansas. Major Bittle, of Fort Lyons, sent out to our camp for a man that knew the country east of this fort. I went to Fort Lyons, and hired as a scout. "Now, Mr. Lewis," he said, "I want you to try and locate the Commanchee Indians, which are committing murder upon women and children. They are going northward." I accepted the job and was put in complete charge of a detachment of soldiers, which was Troop L, of the Sixth Cavalry. A graduate of West Point, Lieutenant, by the name of Ander- son, was our officer. We traveled all day before we struck the In- dian trail, which Jed to the north. We pitched camp for the night. The following day we came to where the In- FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS dians had camped the night before. We esti- mated the camp to have at least three hundred. After some discussion we pitched camp. While we were preparing supper, the boys told jokes and discussed the coming fight- Our Lieutenant, who seemed to be nervous over the prospects, when finding he was outnumbered by the "red devils," made it a point to express him- self, that he wished to return to the command Upon hearing this declaration from the com- manding officer, our first Sergeant, McCarty, advised the lieutenant that **he never turned back, especially when on hunt for Indians, as they were all good fellows when dead.'' After finding that the troop was determined to pursue the Indians to a finish, the lieutenant asked me where I thought the Indians might be found. I told him it was about sixteen miles to the next watering hole, and from the number of fires in the camp, that we would have to surprise them in order to whip them and save our own lives. We let our horses rest until ten o'clock that night, at which time we broke camp and trav- eled over the prairie and through occasional patches of woods until about four o'clock the fol- lowing morning. At this point I decided that FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS we were within about one mile of the Indian camp. I told the lieutenant to have six men mounted and ready for instant service, that I was going into the Indian camp and find the ex- act location of the horses, so that the horses might be stampeded and driven off; that if the Indians were able to reach their steeds we were whipped men. I scouted the camp and reported the position of the horses. The lieutenant sent out six men to stampede them. The men were only gone a few minutes when the orders were given to charge the Indians. When we were nearing the Indian camp our lieutenant expressed his desire that I lead the charge, stating that he was afraid of getting shot. To this I would have been de- lighted to have done but for the latter part of his sentence. I told him that he was in com- mand of the soldiers, and it was up to him. He then called the first sergeant and instructed him to lead the attack. The sergeant's orders were: "Empty your rifles, then take your revolvers and empty them, and if you haven't time to put them away, throw them at them, and draw your sabors; we will recover our revolvers later. Now go to it, boys." After the attack upon the Indian camp had — 5 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS been in progress for some few minutes, I was surprised to find the Indian chief coming in my direction upon his pony. It seemed that he was the only one that had left his horse in camp. This explains how he was able to mount when the herd of ponies had been stampeded. He kept coming my way until he was within fifty yards, when he began shooting at me, the first shot taking effect in my shoulder, and the second just under my arm. Not satisfied with this, he continued coming until he was within thirty yards, then he drew his spear, and I knew that I was gone unless I could drop him, so, taking my pistol, I rested it upon my left knee. I took deliberate aim. It was indeed gratifying to see my friend, the chief, dismount forever. I was more than repaid for waiting on the chief, for his buck hunting suit was at least worth $100. He had a fancy bridle with four silver dollars extended from the latch strap, and a fine pair of bits, inlaid with gold. Last, but not least, was the saddle, which was of a western type, and had suspended twenty-four silver dollars. This was the method in which he showed his wealth and authority over his tribe. After the excitement with the chief, I heard FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS crying and lamentation among the Indians. I crawled to my horse, which was a short distance away. Making several efforts, I was at last suc- cessful in mounting, and rode on to the camp in hopes that I might prevail upon the lieutenant to have mercy upon the squaws and papooses, which were being massacred by our enraged soldiers. After some time I found him crouching be- hind several lodge poles which the Indians had used in conveying their belongings to the camp. I called the lieutenant and asked if there could not be something done to prevent the drastic murder of the women and children. He replied, **Is the fight over?" I said, "The fight has been over for some while, but our men are murdering the squaws and their children." At this junc- ture, he called his first sergeant and instructed him to stop firing. The sergeant replied, "Just let them go, lieutenant, and make good Indians of them while we are here." After the battle we had several casuals, four men killed. While in the detachment sent out to stampede the horses, there was one killed and one wounded. The Indians were not so success- ful- They lost about two hundred. About half of these were women and children, while the FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS rest made their escape. Due to the fact that we had no medical aid, it became my duty to look after the casuals. After dressing the wounds, I instructed the lieu- tenant that we would return at once to our com- mand, that the wounded might have a chance of resting; also that they might have the best of food. Upon reaching camp. Colonel Bittle was very much elated over the outcome of the engage- ment, and our wonderful success, due to the fact that we were up against such heavy odds. CHAPTER 11. After some few days in camp with Colonel Bittle, my shoulder became so much improved that I felt like a new man. I asked the colonel one afternoon, *'How much longer would I have to lounge around the camp?" He told me that **things looked very peaceful at the present, but there w^as no telling how long it would remain in this state." However, I was delighted on the following morning when called to Colonel Battle's tent. FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS and told that the Indians were giving a lot of trouble to the settlers and ranchers in Wichita, Kansas, and he had received a request for a number one scout, to be assigned to Troop A, of the Sixth cavalry, and asked if I would accept the appointment. And, of course, you can imagine how much I appreciated the fact that I would again be out of camp and into something lively. I realized the dangerous undertaking that I was about to engage in, and as there was not any houses be- tween Fort Lyons and Wichita, after a big din- ner with the boys, I saddled my horse and bid them good bye, started out over the plains for my new post. It was about three hundred miles to go direct to Wichita, but I was unable to carry supplies sufficient to make this trip, so it became necessary for me to go by the v^^ay of Fort Dodge for additional supplies. I was very fortunate, however, killing anti- lope, and one buffalo, this giving me plenty of meat, such as it was, and with the exceptional good luck until about the fifth day, I was only about sixty miles from Wichita, when I discov- ered that I was being followed by Indians. Some months before I had become acquainted with a wealthy Englishman, who was buffalo FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS hunting on the plains, and as he was leaving he presented me with a ''fifty caliber needle gun," which he had made for lion hunting, which he had used in South Africa. I felt very much at ease. As stated, I felt very much at ease, until I made the discovery of Indians following me, but, however, I had my needle gun, and on the fifth day they came close enough to shoot my horse from under me. I had some difficulty, but fin- ally cleared up accounts with my pursuers, being a number one shot, in five minutes of rapid fir- ing, I was able to proceed on my way. Having my horse shot made it necessary for me to complete the rest of my journy on foot. I arrived at Wichita, without any mishap, and re- ported to Captain Nesmith, who was a fine fel- low and soldier. The captain saw that I was well taken care of, and on the following morn- ing I was called into his office. After some lit- tle discussion of the trouble in that section of the country, we decided to start immediately in pursuit of the Indians, who were stealing horses and cattle from the ranchers and set- tlers. We first went to Minasquaw, and from there to Kansas City, but did not find anything of any consequence. We then scouted along the old —10— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS sage strip to Great Bend, a distance of about sixty miles, but not finding anything on this trip, we turned back to Wichita. Things were quiet enough until we arrived at Wichita. The night we arrived the sheriff shot two of our men, but they were not wounded se- riously. The day following the shooting we were ordered out of Wichita by the sheriff. After we had gone about eight miles, we pitcehd camp, but it became necessary to send a detach- ment of men back to the depot at Wichita for supplies, but our men had scarcely gotten out of camp when they were met by the sheriff and his men, and while driving our soldiers back to camp, one of our horses was shot. The captain gathered up our men upon learning of this out- rage, and followed up another detachment of men. When the first detachment appeared, the sheriff renewed his attack. At this juncture the second detachment appeared, which Captain Nesmith and I were with. We came upon the renegades and drove them into the bottoms, and I can safely say they were not treated so nicely. Following the trouble it was announced by our captain that we would leave this camp and also that section of country. This did only go- ing as far as Minasquaw. We again went into — 11 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS camp, also advising the citizens of Wichita of our location. It was some few days until any- thing of any consequence developed, but one afternoon we were alarmed on hearing the clat- ter of hoofs. After some few minutes, a horseman dashed up, without bridle, saddle, boots or hat. Upon being questioned by the captain, he informed us that the Indians had stolen about fifty head of horses, and were then only about two or three miles away. We immediately broke camp and followed the Indians all that night, and until the next day about ten o'clock. We had a slight en- gagement, and after some little trouble we drove them into a patch of timber. After this victory over our foes, we surrounded the timber and re- mained for three days. It so happened that they had insufficient supplies, and were starved out. We were very much surprised at the sur- render; who should come out but the sheriff of Wichita county, and his deputies. We made them prisoners, and upon searching the timber, we found their Indian garments. We had been in camp about a week, when one night one of the boys slipped up to the sher- iff and told him that he was to be executed the next morning. Shortly after twelve o'clock some —12— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS one released the cords that bound his arms and legs, enough that about twelve o'clock he re- leased himself, and started to make his escape, having passed the picket line about five yards, when the guard on that post fired upon him. It was orders that any prisoners escaping be shot. We notified the owners of these horses, who sent for them that day. We also sent our pris- oners to St. Louis, who later received a sentence of thirty years for rustling, which they had been participating in. This broke up our Indian trou- ble in this vicinity. CHAPTER III. We went into winter quarters, and were there something like six weeks. It was in the spring of 1873. Our Troop A, of the Sixth cavalry, was ordered to break camp and move to Buffalo City, on the Salt Line river, in the northwestern part of Kansas. I was called upon to accompany this troop as a scout. After our arrival at Buffalo City, we learned that the Indians had just paid the settlers a visit, burning the only wooden dwelling in the town. They also had some little —13— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS fight, wounding two or three of the citizens. It was said that the entire city would have been completely destroyed, but most of the buildings were dugouts. Upon finding the trail, I started out to locate the Indians. Our captain was with me. We continued our trip until we reached the southern part of Nebraska. Here we located our long sought reds. By some of their old In- dian methods they gave us the slip. We had to stop, as our supplies were running very low. We again started southward for Garnell Station for supplies, and also into summer camp. While sitting around the camp fire, we would tell jokes and play poker and other kinds of games. I will tell you of a little occurrence that hap- pened while in this camp. Four distinguished visitors came to pay their respects. Two of them were English ; a Yankee ; last, but not least, an Irish lord. Our two English guests were Captain Franklin Tolbert, and the other his first lieuten- ant, John Brown; the Yankee, by the name of Mr. Howard Watts, and the latter, the Irish lord, by the name of Frank Murphy. The four men called at our camp and asked the captain if he could let them have a man that knew something about buffalo hunting. Captain Nesmith in- formed them that he would be glad to let them —14— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS have his scout, provided that he could be per- suaded to go. So they came forward and asked me in regards to making this trip, which I agreed to do if I was paid for my services. After making all the necessary arrangements we bid the boys good bye and started for the buffalo range, which was about thirty miles from Garnell Station- The first afternoon after leaving camp, we came upon a bunch of buffa- lo, so we began to hunt for a nice camping ground. Having pitched our camp, the lieuten- ant was the first man to try his hand on big game. Taking his saddle horse and starting in the direction of the herd, the buffalo seeing him, started on a stampede in our direction. When the herd was within range of Lieutenant Brown, he had the pleasure of trying his marksmanship. Having nothing but a pistol, he emptied the contents into a nice fat one. The animal fell, so Mr. Brown came to the conclusion that he had killed him, so he dismounted and started for the buffalo. When within a few j^ards, the animal became very much alive, and springing to its feet, rushed at the lieutenant, who threw down his pistol, and falling across his pony, applied spurs and started for camp. Of course we hol- lowed for him to run, which we all can testify FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS that he did for about three or four hundred yards. He hearing nothing in pursuit, decided to look around, and to his surprise, the buffalo was dead at the beginning of the race. Of course Mr. Brown was dumfounded over the incident. Going into camp for the night, we prepared supper, and after eating a hearty meal, we set around the camp fire telling jokes, etc After a peaceful night, we packed our belongings and traveled over the plains. Occasionally we would kill a bird, but later in the afternoon we saw a bunch of buffalo grazing off to the south, so I went along until I was in range, and was suc- cessful in wounding two of the largest ones. After the buffalo had been wounded they started in our direction, also in the direction of our camp, but the best of it all was that Mr. Brown had noticed a bunch of ducks a short dis- tance away from the camp on a creek; he de- cided he would like some duck for supper. He hardly reached the creek banks when he was again startled by a wounded buffalo. Mr. Tolbert Murphy, were left in the camp, and hearing the firing, picked up their guns, and climbing to the top of the mound to see if they could discover the trouble. Looking south over the plains, they could see the buffalo running to- — 16— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS ward our friend Brown, but they had to pass near enough to them that they killed them, but before they were killed Brown had discovered they were coming toward him. Throwing down his gun, he climbed a willow tree. Tolbert and Murphy, seeing this, called to him to climb higher. This they need not have done, for he was still climbing, nearing the top of the tree. The branches were very tender, and climbing out on one of these, it snapped off, and he fell into the cheek. Mr. Tolbert was so delighted over his first buffalo that he had it sent to Den- ver and mounted. This one weighed about two thousand pounds, the largest one I ever saw. His horns measured four inches, this equaling twelve inches around. CHAPTER IV. Later on in the afternoon, I went out and lo- cated a herd of buffalo, and the first one killed had a bunch of arrows in his back. Taking my buffalo into camp, we took things easy until about sundown. After supper the lieutenant and I took a walk to smoke our pipes, and also FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS to look after the scenery. While walking, the lieutenant came upon a hole. He said, "In case we should get into trouble, this would be a good place for protection." Just before retiring that night, I told the boys that if we wanted to live and do well and keep our scalps we had better stand guard. Everything went along all right until the moon came up, and with it came a bunch of wild horses. I could not see very clear- ly, but from the maneuvers it looked as if they were Indians- After the boys had reached their guns and ready for action, we discovered that it was only a herd of wild horses, but during this time we had paid no attention to the lieutenant, and looking around, we missed him. After some little time the lieutenant called and asked if the Indians were gone. When told that they were, he said, 'Tlease help me out of this hole." On another occasion I wounded a young buf- falo, but shooting it in the neck ( Mr. Brown was with our wagon), and coming up to where the buffalo was, I told him it would be better for him to remain further back, but he stated that there was no harm in a poor little calf. After reaching the spot, he stepped out on the brake of the wagon, and shaking his foot at the calf, hardly had he begun until the buffalo made at —18— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS him. But luck was with our friend, for the buffalo made a wide miss, hitting his horns against the brake. This upset Brown, and he fell on the buffalo's hips. Of course, Brown be- came frightened upon being upset, and started to run up the hill. We assisted him along by calling to him to run, that the buffalo would soon catch him. After some few hundred yards he looked around to see what kind of progress he was making, but only to see us boys skinning the animal. He came back shrugging his shoul- ders with a sickening grin upon his face, and made the remark that he had had all the experi- ence with the buffalo that he wanted; that he had been in the wilds of Africa, and had been on several lion hunts, but the buffalo had his goat. Upon the persuading of Brown, we broke camp and returned to the company at Garnell Station. The boys did not stay with us long, taking their departure for their homes, but they were all overjoyed with the experience with the buffalo, with the exception of Lieutenant Brown. Things passed easy until the afternoon of October 3, 1873, when we had a tremendous storm. It was about four o'clock. One of the — 19— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS boys discovered a cloud in the north. He came up and told us, **Boys, we are going to have a real old fashioned blizzard." In about thirty minutes the wind started blowing and blew for some twenty minutes before the storm came- When it arrived it took everything movable. The results were, after it had been in progress for five or ten minutes, our tents, wagons, blankets, and everything that wasn't wrapped around the boys, even to our food supplies, was lost. It was about noon of the next day, October 4, before we got all of our men together, the sands leaving the skys so heavy that they could not find their way back to camp, and the snow would have averaged about one foot in depth. Due to the fact that we had lost our equip- ment, it was necessary for us to break camp and start for our winter quarters, at Fort Wallace, and also we had to draw supplies and equip- ments. We reached the fort in due time, and found everything very quiet, and it remained this way for about three weeks, but about this time we were ordered to leave the fort imme- diately and proceed to Great Bend, on the Kan- sas Pacific, to try and apprehend some three or four hundred Indians that were on the war path. Upon our arrival at Great Bend we were —20— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS told of "Home Guard of Denver," all of v^hom had served their time in the city, and they were all very ''brave boys." They had reached Great Bend the night before, and after leaving the train, they vv^ere surprised to find the Indians a fev^ hundred yards away. After some prepara- tions for an encounter, the Indian chief sent one of his warriors to the captain of the Home Guard, saying, 'If you want to fight, come over." This our brave comrade declined to do, but in- stead obtained transportation for Denver, and started back the same day they arrived. We were not so fortunate as the Home Guards were, we did not arrive at Great Bend until the follow- ing day after the Indians had departed. On our arrival we learned that the Indians had left about twelve hours before, and were taking everything with them. Mr. William Thomas, a cattle rancher, of Great Bend, informed us that the Indians had camped around his ranch house the night before our arrival, and that they had driven up several of his finest cattle and killed them in front of his house, but they were helpless and could do nothing to help themselves. When ready to leave, they gathered all available beeves and drove them off with the rest of their stolen prop- erty. —21 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS We had been in the saddle for about twenty- two hours before reaching Great Bend, and in- formed Lieutenant that if he expected to over- take the reds it would be necessary for us to start immediately upon the trail, which led in the direction of Indian Territory, and once there we could go no further. Upon informing him that the territory was only about a hundred and thirty miles away, he called his men together and instructed them to discard all of their bed- ding supplies and surplus clothing and not to carry anything but provisions, as we were going to be on a forced march until the Indians were overtaken. All was discarded and we again started in pursuit of the red deamons. We at last came in sight of the Indians, within about twenty miles of the territory, but when they saw us coming they knew that they were about to have a fight, but instead of turning on us, they made all haste forward. It was lucky for them that they had traveled some at night as well as ourselves, for we did not overtake them until they were within about three miles of the border. The squaws and pappooses were all sent on ahead of the main body, the warriors remaining in the rear for a guard. At all points they were moving into the FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS territory. Of course we had a running fight for about three miles, killing some ten or twelve of the Indians, and capturing several ponies and a number of cattle that had been stampeded when the firing took place. Just after the Indians had crossed the border of Colorado, into the Indian Territory, we were met by Captain Madden, in command of Troop L, of the Sixth cavalry. He stated that they had been sent in company with another scout in hopes of cutting the Indians off before they reached the reservation, and in case our Troop A, of the Sixth cavalry, did not succeed in catch- ing them- After some little time the scout from Troop L, and myself, came to the conclusion that it would be best for both troops to return imme- diately to Fort Lyons, and there was nothing further for us there. CHAPTER V. We pitched camp about five miles from the border, there finding water. This was done in order to give the tired ponies and men a rest, and also to recuperate. As we had been in the sad- —23 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS die for almost a week, the men were enjoying the blessings of rest, but not for long. The scout from Troop L and myself made a little scouting tour of the country. It was something like nine o'clock when he said: "Lewis, have you noticed how dark and cold it is getting?" I said: **I have just been thinking of the prospects for a blizzard." Then he and I went over our fight- ing experiences until we reached the camp. I lay down to rest after seeing that a strict guard was kept for the night. About four o'clock the next morning I was awakened with a big, fat chill up my back. After getting up and jumping around to get up a circulation, I saw that we were being overtaken by a blizzard. We aroused our men and after a cold breakfast we started out so that we might keep warm, being short of clothing and supplies. We found quite an inconvenience in returning to Fort Lyons, but after we had been out some few days our pro- visions were gone, and it became my duty as a scout to bring in some fresh meat. Clint Walker, the scout from the other troop, set out for the buffalo range. We were very fortunate, how- ever, in finding plenty of game, and when we reached our destination we had a nice surplus. It might be of some interest that we state here —24— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS why we did not follow the Indians into the reser- vation, but it was due to the fact that General Sherman was elected to congress, and that a law was passed that the agencies which were handling the Indian proposition at that time were ministers of the Gospel. At the action of congress, army officers were put in their places. After the agents at Washington saw what the outcome was going to be they induced their tribes to go on the war path. In so doing they had hopes of regaining their former positions. At the same time a law was passed that these positions be filled with army officers, there was also a law passed to the effect that soldiers were molesting any Indians upon the reservations, or if they were being pursued, they would discon- tinue such when they reached the border- Un- til the new law became effective, which was in 1874, we had to remain on the premises as above explained. I will not trouble you with part of my story, or history, as you are already acquainted with Washington and the doings of congress. After our arrival at Fort Lyons, we rested there for some four or five days, and then our company again set out, on our return trip to Fort Wallace. Of course I was picked as scout or —25— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS guide, for the return trip. After about four or five days v^e reached Fort Wallace without any trouble. The only sport we had w^as killing buf- falo and antilope, this being our meat. CHAPTER VI. After our arrival at Fort Wallace we went into winter quarters. Things went quiet enough for some few weeks after our arrival in winter quarters, until one afternoon I was out buffalo hunting and was riding along on my horse, when it became frightened, and this taking me by sur- prise, I became entangled in the stirrup. I tried to free myself from the saddle, but all in vain. After finding this to be a fruitless task, I en- deavored to get my steed stopped, but this proved to be of no avail. As my horse speeded on over the plain, I was sure of out fate. After some little distance the horse stepped in a prai- rie dog hole. In the fall my chest became in- jured so badly that I was laid up for some three or four months. I counted the days until I could be out again on the go. After some four months our doctor —26— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS told me I might take my leave if I would take care of myself for about another month, and if I took good care of myself I would soon be all right. One afternoon while I was sitting around the camp at Fort Wallace, waiting for my chest to become stronger, we heard firing in the west. Naturally, we all grabbed our guns and made ready for instant action if anything should turn up. After a little while we saw a man running in our direction. Every once in a while we could see him drop to his knee and hear the report of a rifle. Each time we could see a pursuer drop to the ground. As soon as we could get a de- tachment ready to aid, they were sent to his res- cue. Much to our surprise upon the return of the aid party, who should it be but our old friend scout, Buffalo Bill. "They were getting very close to you, were they not. Bill?" I asked. *'Well, hello, Lewis, glad to see you," was his first regards. Then he told us that he had left Fort Hays some few days before with a dispatch for Fort Wallace; that after he had been out for a day and night, that fifteen Indians were sent by a tribe where he was passing to kill him. However, upon his arrival at Fort Wallace, there were only four survivors. After supper Buffalo Bill and I had a little chat. At this time Bill — 27 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS showed me several bullet holes in his clothing, where the Indians had been using him as a tar- get. But luckily, not a bullet had touched his skin. We enjoyed the afternoon very much, talking of the different kinds of Indians, and of their modes of fighting and of their treatment of the whites; and of the narrow escapes we had had while fighting them. We were up smoking until late. After breakfast on the following morning, Buffalo Bill, getting him another horse, bid us good bye and started for Fort Lyons with a dis- patch. I did not see him again for about three years. CHAPTER VII. It was on the 15th of July, 1874, that Buffalo Bill had paid us the visit. I was improving steadily and growing stronger all the while. Things continued quiet until about the 10th of August, 1874, the following month. It was on the morning of the 10th that I was called to headquarters and asked if I had gained enough strength to go on a scouting trip. To this I re- —28— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS plied : *1 am feeling bully." Then it was that I was informed that my services were needed bad- ly as a scout, and ordered me to leave at once for Fort Dodge, and report to Colonel Miles. It was something like sixty miles from Fort Wallace to Fort Dodge. This distance had to be made over the prairie and through the center of the Indian country, where uprisings and killings were taking place to some unfortunate one who had to pass that way. I saddled my pony and started out toward the east for my new assign- ment. I was of the opinion it would take me fully two days, the way I would have to go around, and dodging the different troubled sec- tions. This I was lucky in doing, but on the morning of the 12th I was sighted by ten or twelve In- dians, of Commanchee. I had some little trouble getting into a wooded strip of timber, but finally getting into it, the fun began. I was able to dis- mount some three or four; in fact, I was firing so rapidly I did not have time to notch my gun stock. Any way, they discovered that they were outclassed, and started circling the timber, at some points shooting into the air and brandish- ing their weapons as they went. While I had them engaged in this manner, I —29— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS slipped out of the timber and made my way on, the nearest of the shots passing my hat brim. Night came on me in the wilds of the forest, and knowing it would be impossible for me to have a light, I ate a cold lunch, and locking my legs around my tired pony's neck, I dropped my body over the back of the saddle, upon the pony's hips, for my sleep. It must have been about two in the morning that my horse gave a snort and jumped forward, also throwing me from his back, then starting out in a long trot. I had hardly gotten straight when I heard a tremen- dous shriek from a panther. I thanked myself for the information that it was a panther, and not a Commanchee. After being disturbed of my sleep, I decided that I would start out on my journey. It was something like 10:30 a.m- the morning of the 13th that I reached Fort Dodge. Upon arriving at the fort, I immediately reported to Colonel Miles for duty. Upon seeing me he smiled in a knowing way and said, **You are the very man I was looking for, we wall start on the trail of the Commanchees on the 15th. So he advised me that the expeditionary forces were to subdue the Indians, or kill them ail, that he did not give a d — n which. —30— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS After supper we drew up some sketches, as to our plans and also made notations of things that we would need on this tour. So the following day that we could get these things and be pre- pared to start on our journey on the morning of the fifteenth. CHAPTER VOL The sun came up very hot ; we started on our way to the south, leaving civilization, not know- ing just where we were going. We had four companies of infantry, most of the men good healthy fellows, but we had only. a small water supply, and as the afternoon wore on the boys began to weaken under the trials of the blazing sun, and of the scorching sands be- neath their feet. All water supplies were soon gone and the men actually scratched their ow^n arms in order to secure blood to drink. We con- tinued on until we reached a buffalo watering hole, which was something like twenty-five miles from Fort Dodge. Unloading our wagons of food supplies, we sent them back along the road with water to pick up the poor fellows that had fallen out of ranks. —81— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS It took practically all the day of the sixteenth to get our men into camp, and let them rest up. So we remained in camp at the wallow until about 2 :30 p.m. of the next day. Breaking camp we started on to the south, for there I knew there was a big spring something like ten miles, and that we could get there before night After we had reached the spring and pitched our camp, Colonel Miles told me that this was the section that was affected by the Indians, and that he thought it would be a good idea for Amos Champan and myself to do a little scout- ing. So Amous and myself, we old chums, sad- dling our ponies, started for a ride around the camp and made an inspection of the country, and at the same time to see if there were any prospects of any trouble for that night. After we had gone something like two-thirds of the way around the camp, and about a mile out, we discovered three Indians heading for our camp. "Well, Amous, what do you make of that?** I asked. **It seems to me that we are going to have trouble with some of the coyotes,'* he an- swered. Getting our rifles in readiness, we started down on the intruders, but we reached camp too late. —32 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS Just about the time we were leaving camp for the scouting trip, the two Mario brothers, who were teamsters, had their fishing tackles for a little fishing trip in the big spring. They had been gone only about forty-five minutes when the three Indians sighted them. The Indians crawled up the spring branch until they were able to surprise the boys. Marvin was on one side and Steve on the other. As Marvin was en- gaged in nibbles, Steve had all the spectacle. Steve was on the side where the Indians were coming in, so they were able to surprise the poor fellow. The first he knew of the attack was only an instant before he was killed, for they had crawled in snake fashion till they were within arms reach, and struck him with a toma- hawk from behind. As Steve fell to the ground, Marvin, quietly withdrawing from the scene of his brother's as- sassination, made his way into camp. Upon reaching the camp he reported the trouble, and a search was started immediately for the red- bellied devils. When Amous and I reached camp everything was in a panic, and excitement was running high. We joined in the hunt for the murderers, but some way they got into the brush and made their escape into large timber. —33— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS Our command buried Steve with military- honors that afternoon. The next morning we were on the move again. Just before we reached Camp Supply, which was located in the Indian Territory, I was given a dispatch from Fort Dodge, by Colonel Miles, with instructions that I make all possible haste with this message. When I came upon the camping grounds I took a drink from the spring, allowed my pony to drink, then set out for Fort Dodge. I made the trip without any occurence worth mention. Upon delivering the message, I received a return mes- sage for Colonel Miles ; so I set out again on my return trip. Upon my arrival at the spring, I found that the Indians had visited the place and that Steve's body had been dug up and completely mutilated. After leaving the grave and going on to the south some few miles, I was again con- fronted by a couple of Indian braves. It was up to the old scout. Getting in behind a clump of bushes, we had it out, shot for shot, but being a dead shot, they did not detain me long. I again found myself well on the way to Camp Supply, and upon arriving, I delivered my mes- sage and turned in for rest and sleep, but before retiring I reported the matter with reference to —34— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS poor Steve. Colonel Lewis, commanding officer of Camp Supply, sent out. a detachment of sol- diers to rebury our companion. We received a full supply of equipment for our men; also Colonel Bittle joined us with eight troops of the Sixth cavalry. After receiv- ing full supplies, we started out with about one thousand men, including artillerymen and gat- tling gunmen. Things were very nice for the first four or five days, but on the 29th of August as we were nearing the river, I found an Indian trail which led toward the river. Colonel Miles called a halt and told us to pitch camp. That night Amous Chapman and myself started for a scouting trip. We were very fortunate to find the Indian camp about eleven o'clock.. We im- mediately returned to camp and reported to Colonel Miles that we had discovered the In- dian camp about fifteen miles further on. Col- onel Miles gave orders that we break camp and be off at once. It was then about 2 a.m. CHAPTER IX. Things being in readiness for the start, Colonel —35— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS Miles, who was in command, gave orders for the infantry to bring up the rear, and to escort the wagons and guard the supplies, while the cav- alry was to go in advance to the Indian camp and open up the battle. I being the chief scout, took my position in advance of the troopers. We continued our march until something like 8 o'clock on this fateful morning, when I discov- ered two horses far in our advance- I turned back to report this to Lieutenant Henig, who was in command of Troop A of the Sixth cav- alry. Colonel Miles, who was in command of these expeditionary forces, gave orders that we go into battle with the reds without further delay. I again started in advance, but this time, to avoid a surprise, I took with me what is known as the right and left guard, or advance guard. We were riding about 500 yards in advance, when I came in sight of the two ponies again, but this time the riders could not be seen upon them, but upon close observation I could see that they were leaning on the opposite side. So we stopped and waited until Lieutenant Henig- came up. He asked, ''What are you stopping for, Lewis, there isn't any danger; those are wild horses." I replied, 'Trobably they are, but wait until the horses turn around and see the —36— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS Indians change sides." At this instant we discovered that what I had said was true. The Indians turned sharply to the right and went around a hill. They had been gone only about five minutes when about twelve hundred started circling us from the south. When they started firing on us they were about one-half a mile aw^ay. Lieutenant Henig sent his orderly back to the command, stating that the fight was on, and that about twelve hundred Indians were firing upon us. We im- mediately dismounted and formed what is known as a hollow square, and started firing. It was something like thirty minutes before Colonel Miles reached us. When he reached us with Colonel Bittle's cavalry, they came up on the outside of our troops. This made us strong enough that we could charge the hill on which the Indians were located. The charge began at once. The Indians w^ere forced to retreat, this time taking refuge in a timbered strip. We then surrounded them and waited until the artillery came up. We then fell back for some distance, and the cannon started firing in this strip. This was too much for the Indians, as they later told us that their chief did not approve of guns that shot twice. If it had FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS not been for these we would have been up against it; as it was we had a running fight all day. In a wooded strip on our left, the Indians, about three hundred in number, had taken up a position and were making it hot for the boys in Troop A. We knew that it would be useless to charge them as it was, but instead, we rushed the gattling gun company to this position. The Indians were coming down upon the gattling gun corps, when orders were given to fire. The rapid firing was more than our foes could stand. They scattered in every direction, or that is, what was left of them, there only being a single line of horses left of the advancing ones. This, of course, scattered our men over a territory equal to that of our foes. We soon found things in almost as bad a panic as that of the red men. CHAPTER X. Troop L, being on our right. Colonel Miles, Colonel Bittle, Captain Anderson, Amous Chap- and and myself, went over to where they were fighting. The boys of Troop L were sure putting —38— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS up some hard fight- Just to the right of Troop L, Troop M was also putting up a hard fight. Colonel Miles, viewing the encounter from where we were, gave orders that the artilery be turned to the aid of Troop M. After this had been done the company made a brilliant charge and routed their foes. The Indians were becoming scattered all over the surrounding territory, and locating our sup- ply wagons, the chief sent out some runners to gather up as many men as possible. This they did, but were again routed on account of there being more infantrymen than they had antici- pated. The infantrymen were all good shots, so the Indians did not stand a show. One of our men who was sent to the supply wagons came in hurriedly and reported the fight which the Indians were putting up with the in- fantrymen, so due to the fact that the ground was becoming so rough and hilly. Colonel Miles ordered the artillery to go back to the aid of the infantrymen, as the Indians were getting to- gether between us and the wagon supply. This was done and we continued on our way in pur- suit of the Indians that we had on the run, leav- ing the infantrymen behind to take care of their own troubles. — 39 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS We continued on the run and fighting at in- tervals until about three o'clock in the afternoon. We located about two hundred Indians con- cealed on a bluff, and in a very rough place. Colonel Miles gave orders that Troop L would charge the bluff, which they did, making a dar- ing charge in the face of the foes. We were greatly handicapped in climbing the bluff, but this we did. The Indians did not fight back, but filed on the cliff in our advance. The ground was so rough as we ascended the hill that it became necessary for us to dismount and advance on foot. Colonel Miles, Colonel Bittle, Captain Anderson, Chapman and myself turned our mounts over to the horse holder, who was leading them around the smoothest part of the hill. A^ our party advanced up the hill, the first sergeant of Troop L, who was just in front of me, was shot, the ball taking effect in his knee. I noticed the smoke from the Indian's rifle. I switched my gun to the left and fired as quickly as possible. It was indeed gratifying to see Mr. Indian come rolling from under the bluff. When I got to where the horses were I thought I would ride over to see if he was dead. I was soon over- taken by Colonel Miles' adjutant, Captain An- —40— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS derson. When we arrived at the carcus of the Indian I took charge of his moccasins and buck skin coat. Captain Anderson asked me, "Are you not going to take his pants." *'No," I re- turned, ''those things are too bloody, don't you see the bullet hole in his hip?" He returned, *'Yes, but what difference will the blood make?" "You may have them, for I sure do not care for them," I said. He then took the pants from the Indian, and after mounting I told him to wait a minute. I turned and dismounted and scalped the Indian, then remounting, we started back to Colonel Miles' field headquarters. After we had been en route for a few minutes Captain Anderson said, "Lewis, I will give you fifty dollars for that scalp." As Captain Anderson had quite a great deal of influence with the scouts, I thought it might prove to be fortunate for me to humor him. I said, "If you really want this scalp you are welcome to it, Captain." Taking the bloody scalp and hanging it on a hook in his belt, w^e proceeded. We found nothing in our way until we reached Colonel Miles' headquarters. We had a little scirmishing all the afternoon, but nothing important with our detachment. But we could hear firing all that afternoon and night. That afternoon, August thirteenth, after we had rested awhile, we moved to the north end FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS of the Stake Plains, placing one troop of men every half mile. This v^as done in order that the Indians could not surround us. I being with Troop L, was stationed at the last camp. All be- ing tired, hungry and thirsty, we stopped for a few minutes' rest, Colonel Miles lamenting to us as to what we were to do. I came forward and told him that it would be necessary for Amous and myself to find water. After about three or four hours we found water, about ten miles from Colonel Miles' headquarters. Upon locating the water we returned to headquarters and reported same. The colonel gave orders to bring what men there was with us to the creek from the plains. After camp had been pitched and guards placed, Colonel Bittle, seeing me pass his tent, called me into the presence of Colonel Miles and himself and asked, ''Mr. Lewis, did you see Cap- tain Anderson kill an Indian today?" I an- swered, ''Colonel Bittle, if I should see you kill a man I would hate to tell it." After saying this I went to my tent and laid down without food. FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS CHAPTER XI. About four o'clock the following morning, which was the 31st of August, Amous and my- self set out in search of wagons. After going some five or six miles we found Troop A in camp at the creek. We immediately went back to Colonel Miles, and reported this fact. Colonel Miles gave orders for our company to move to the location of Troop A immediately. At this time scouts were sent out over the country, that we might gather our scattered men. While Amous and myself again set out in search of the wagons. It was about 11:30 the same day that we sighted it about a mile away, but as we were descending a little slope, two rifles sounded off to our right. Our horses fell instantly to the ground. Then it became neces- sary for us to fight or run. Making breast works of our dead ponies, until we saw they were go- ing to divide up, we succeeded in dropping a few of them. Upon seeing that they were only our targets, they decided it would be better to circle, which they started doing. Amous said, "Lewis, it is up to us to get the wagon train or else." Friend, you cannot real- ize how the word else made me feel- We started on a run, firing as we went. I am sure if it had —43— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS not been for the strong guard that was sent to our rescue, we would have perished. Being pur- sued by the reds, we kept on until we were met by our rescuers. We were so hungry we could hardly wait un- til we reached headquarters. They could not give us anything but hard tack to nibble on while we were en route to camp. We arrived at camp about 5 :30 that afternoon. The boys were sure glad to see us, for they knew that it meant a square meal. After eating a square meal. Colonel Miles is- sued orders that we would break camp imme- diately, taking the artillery, wagon train and all of our supplies and go to Stake Plains. This order was carried out at once. After we arrived on the plains, and had pitched camp, we were instructed to return to the creek and fill all water barrels and everything that would hold water. It was about 11 o'clock when we completed this job. We lay down for a little rest, and at 4 o'clock on the morning of September 1, we were awakened by a bugle, with the old familiar call, ''Boots and Saddles." We broke camp without breakfast and traveled south over Stake Plains, on the Indian trail, which looked as if —44 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS there were about one thousand. We followed this trail up the ascent until noon. We finally came upon what looked to be a level prairie, but best of it all was that we found a spring of the best water I ever drank. We at once went into camp for our noonday meal, and also to allow our horses to rest. This we did for some time, and again we started south, in pursuit of the reds. Due to the fact that our horses had been put through a severe test for the past week, they were giving out every little while. Of course, when the animals start to tiring under a supreme test, they go down very suddenly. The boys were taking care of them as best they could, while some of the troopers were forced to walk along with the infantry. CHAPTER XII. After breaking camp at the spring that after- noon we continued on our way in pursuit of the Indians, our small wagon train following in the rear. We covered about fourteen miles that aft- ernoon, and pitched camp for the night. The night passed without anything happen- — 4 5— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS ing of any importance. So on the morning of September 2, we again headed south. We traveled all morning without seeing an Indian, but sighted them about 3 o'clock in the after- noon. They were about three miles in our ad- vance. On account of not having any rain in this sec- tion of the country for the past three years, the earth had cracked open. These openings gave the Indians a great chance to get in cover from us. So Colonel Miles called a halt. And after a consultation between Colonel Bittle and him- self, they decided that on account of our small supply of food and the condition of our horses, we had better start back north. Then they gave us orders to start north im- mediately. This was on the third of September, and after we had traveled a few miles we again went into camp. The next morning we continued on our way, only being disturbed occasionally by a stray bul- let or a pack of wolves. Later the same day we arrived at the spring, which we were glad to see on account of it being water, and also a good resting place. After arriving and pitching camp we discovered that we had lost about seventy- five head of horses. After resting at the spring for about two or FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS three days, we became uneasy as to the where- abouts of our main supply train. This was to have left Camp Supply on the fourth day after our departure. Colonel Miles stated thaf Colonel Lewis had given him positive assurance that he would start them. As we were running short of supplies, it was decided that we had better break camp and pro- ceed from the plains into the valley, and camp along the creek. This we did, and camping at the creek for some few days, our supplies were finally ex- hausted. So we loaded up a supply of water and started back in search of the small supply train. It looked very blue for us, as we had notTiing to eat but horse meat, wild acorns and wild grapes. When running into a patch either of grapes or berries, we would dismount and eat everything in sight. We continued in this man- ner for about six days. After being out of supplies for about six days Colonel Miles sent out two soldiers, in order to locate this wagon train, they being mounted on the very best horses we had. We kept on the march following up these men as fast as pos- sible, and this was slow enough. Things were quiet enough as far as fighting was concerned. But every now and then, while searching for —47— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS wild foods, the Indians would do a little sniping, or catching a man out by himself, would spear him. This was due to the fact that men wher dismounted would usually leave their guns on their mounts. But this mistake cost several men their lives. After several men had been killed in this way, Colonel Bittle posted a general bulletin that men must wear their side arms. Here I will tell you of the first man not obeying the general bulletin of Colonel Bittle. We were resting on the bank of the creek, when the colonel came up and wanted to know if we were successful in locat- ing any wild grapes. About this time Trooper Thompson arose to get a drink of water. Colonel Bittle discovered that he had not complied with the Bulletin as to the side arms. He called to me and said: ''Lewis, let me have your gun- I am going to shoot that fellow standing there, because we had better kill him or the Indians will." After fooling around, Thompson got be- tween the colonel and the camp. The colonel grabbed a bush and started for Thompson. It was a funny race that took place, and after a few minutes Thompson came back with his side arms and also his rifle. ''Now Lewis*, you had better not molest Thompson; he is armed and can protect himself," the colonel said. "Yes, he FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS spoke up, "I will shoot you, you d — d old devil. Two days after the departure of our two sol- diers, who had started to find the wagon train, not hearing from them. Colonel Miles sent out a detachment of about thirty troopers, while we went into permanent quarters to await the ar- rival of supplies. The detachment started, but were driven back, due to the fact that the In- dians were trying to decoy them and were wait- ing for reinforcements. On the ninth of September, 1874, Colonel Miles called me and explained that he had ex- hausted all government efforts, and that we were doomed to starvation unless something was done. He also stated that he was turning the situation entirely over to me. This was done very often by commanding officers, as a scout outranked them. I told the colonel it would be first degree mur- der for me to leave camp alone. I sought my old chum, Amous Chapman, and we decided it would be best for us to get in touch with the supply train, as we could not live much longer on grapes. We selected two troopers, their names being Roth and Smithey. Things being in readiness, the four of us left camp and trav- eled all afternoon and until about 2 o'clock in the morning of the tenth. It w^as then that we FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS stopped to let our horses graze and rest. While the horses were resting we were hulling acorns and broiling our horse meat over a fire. Just as we were fixing to eat our meal, who should come along but Mr. Skunk, or better known as a pole cat. I told Amous that there was a nice piece of meat, so whipping out my revolver, I fired- I thought that I would kill the cat so quickly that it would not smell, but it did. Now you may think this cat wasn't good, but it was far better than horse meat. While sitting around the fire eating. Smithy said, ''Mr. Lewis, I wish that you had picked some one else for this trip, as there has been a Smithy killed every day since we have been out on this expedition, and as I am the last one of that name, I will be next. We laughed at his fears and told him that he was as safe as we were. We left camp on the morning of the tenth. On our second day's journey, it was just as day was breaking, we saddled our horses and started out. We continued on our way until about 10 o'clock without seeing an Indian, when Amous stopped and said: "Do you see those antilopes moving to that herd ? " "Yes," I said, "I was just watch- ing those things when you mentioned it. But I don't see but two legs." So we stopped, and the —50 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS four of us, each picking our man, fired. They all straightened up and fell. We then could see that they were Indians. After we had gone three or four miles from where we had killed the Indians, we noticed that they were thicker and in bunches, some of them as high as fifteen in number. We kept dodging around, first on one side and then on the other, until finally we came upon a large bunch. They killed three of our horses and shot Smithy through the left arm. Amous discovered a buffalo wallow a few yards away. Making a break for the wallow, Smithy was shot through the stomach. We reached the buffalo wallow and drawing our knives, started digging in the sides. After mak- ing a few good trenches in the wallow we felt safe. The Indians began to hollow to attract the attention of others. Having succeeded in these plans, they made an attack upon us. Smithy, seeing what was up, called for us to shoot him, as he did not want to be taken by the red devils. So I suggested to Amous that we drag him in. Just as we were crawling back into the hole, Amous stopped a bullet in his left ankle. This seemed to rally the Indians, who, yelling at the top of their voices, came forward. We waited until they were within about forty yards — 51 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS before we started shooting. We killed eight horses before they could get out of the way. They continued in this manner all the afternoon. In one of their attacks I dropped a horse, and when the horse fell it pinned the rider to the ground. He would yell and try to encourage his men to come after him, but all in vain. We shot him just before sundown. We held our camp in the wallow all O. K. On the following morning as day was break- ing, I stuck my head up to make an observation of the country, and as I did so an Indian, who crept into another wallow about fifty yards dis- tant tried a shot at me. The bullet passed through my hat and cut a groove through my long hair. I waited a minute and said, **Amous, that is a darned Indian over there in that wal- low- Now we will have to get him or he will give us a lot of trouble. I think I have a plan. Get your gun ready and when I stick my hat up on the end of this rifle, I want you to make a sure shot." "Well, boy, you can bet your last bite of horse meat that I will send the bullet straight to its mark if he exposes the least bit of his carcus," he said. — 52 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS CHAPTER XIV It was about a minute before I got my hat in sight. As it came in view the Indian's rifle fired. I let my hat lean to the right, as if I had been shot. This, of course, excited him. Getting braver, he raised up to see what he had hit. Just at this time Amous Chapman fired. I saw him throw his hands up and pitch forward to the ground, never to rise again. ''Now that d — d thing will never trouble anyone else, or do his favorite dance again ; he is now in the happy hunting ground," said Amous. We were unable to leave the wallow all that day. We also kept a sharp lookout for reds. At times they would come within two hundred yards, and we always managed to get either the Indian or his horse, which ever we might shoot at. They continued to maneuver all around us all that day. That night, things were as quiet as if we were in the city. All at once Amous jerked his knife from the sheathe- At about this time a rifle fired ; then I heard the clash of knives and saw the sparks. After a few min- utes he came to me and said, ''Lewis, these In- dians are becoming very sociable." The remaining part of the night passed with- out any further trouble. It was the morning of —58— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS our third day in this wallow that we sighted a color bearer coming in our direction. We al- lowed him to come within a few feet of our stronghold before challanging him. Amous started the conversation with the Indian by ask- ing him what he wanted. The Indian replied that he wanted us to surrender, that they would not hurt us. I listened to the conversation in disgust. I said, ''Amous, let me talk to him.*' Turning to the Indian, I said : ''Your tongue is like a snake's tongue, it is forked; you would not tell the truth at all." This made him mad. He turned and went away. We did not care for this, and I had already worked my bluff on him. I will explain why. My needle gun was a fifty caliber, and had a thirty-six inch barrel. I had run out of ammunition for this gun, but one aft- ernon before leaving camp I discovered that the gattling gun shells would fit it, and being much heavier powder, it would shoot a greater dis- tance. With a lot of shots from the wallow I would drop an .Indian or his horse at five hun- dred yards; on one occasion I broke the record by dropping an Indian at a mile's distance. The only thing that the Indians could do was to stay in that vicinity and keep us surrounded. On the close of the afternoon of our second day in this wallow our horse meat gave out; also Smithy died. This gave us the poor fellow's food, which —54— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS we accepted. After our provisions had given out we were forced to eat grass and roots and drink the muddy water which was in the bot- tom of the wallow. On the afternoon of the third day it began to rain, and the atmosphere became very heavy and dark, but with nothing but blood in our eyes, we stuck to our post. It was about 5 :30 in the evening when I sighted a bunch of mounted Indians approaching, or what I thought to be that. When they were within two hundred yards Amous picked up his gun and said, ''Lewis I guess those Indians are determnied to take us, watch me bring the chief out of his saddle." I grinned as he swung his rifle into a firing position, and with the quickness of a cat, his rifle spoke. It was lucky for the man in ad- vance that it was a little elevation, for it raised his horse's head just enough to catch the shot. Just as the horse fell I heard a bugle call for the men to charge. We realized our mistake in fir- ing on the troop of cavalry, but we were not re- sponsible, for it was in the war zone, so we treated them all alike, friends or otherwise. We stuck our hats up to signify that we were not Indians, and as the captain saw who it was he was very much angered over our shooting his mount. They would not even let us have a FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS horse to carry Amous to where we could obtain medical aid. We told them where they could find Colonel Miles, which was on to our south about fourteen miles, as I had left them several days previous, but they were fixing to move in our direction. As to whether they had done this, I could not say. CHAPTER XV. This troup had been ordered from New Mex- ico, and on up into Indian Territory to re-inforce Colonel Miles' command. We remained here until Colonel Miles and Colonel Bittle arrived. We had been in the buffalo wallow for five days. After Colonel Miles had arrived we buried Smithy and went further north, where we had another scirmish with the Indians who had had our wagon train surrounded. We were all very glad to meet the wagon train, as we were almost starved. The troop in company of the wagon train was in four hundred yards of a small creek when they were attacked. The Indians were lined up in order that the wagon train would be compelled to go in the di- rection of the Indians' main camp. —56— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS After I had supper and got a little sleep I went in search of Amous, but when I found him our doctor had already amputated his foot, and he was resting very nicely. Of course, this put my old friend, Amous Chapman, out of the scouting business. He was laid up for some long months before he was able to get out again. I was standing within a few yards of field headquarters when Captain Mock came by. I said: ''Captain, I notice there are a lot of men in your command that are wearing patches upon their heads, as well as yourself. What seems to be the trouble?" ''Well, Lewis, old boy, the only thing that I can say is that we had dug in the sand hills while we were surrounded and every time one of us would stick one of our heads up an Indian was ready to take a shot at us." We had a very funny thing to happen to us after we had been in camp on the Wichita river for a few days, which was our camp on account of the water supplies, and better grazing grounds for the horses. One afternoon just as the sun was setting a young man who seemed to be about eighteen years of age came up and asked for a soldier by the name of Henry. After some little time Mr. Henry was found, and they became friends at once. FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS The boy told us that he had been captured some few days before by the Indians, and that upon making friends with one of the Indian squaws, she had set him at liberty. He remained in camp for some time, but one morning we were startled to find the body of a murdered man, who was of Troop F. After the blood had been washed from his face, who should it be but Henry. We knew that it was not an Indian who had done this. We started an investigation and found this young man had disappeared. It was later learned that this boy's father had been in the army some time prior, and had deserted. But this was no reason for the murder unless the boy's father and Henry had had a fight, and Henry had given the boy's father a thrashing. Some few (Jays later Colonel Miles came and asked if I could not find a better camping ground where the grass was more plentiful. I replied that I would be only too glad to saddle my horse and find out. So, saddling my horse, I started up the bank of the river and came to what is called a horse shoe bend- This was about six miles from where we were camping. So I re- turned and reported to Colonel Miles that I had found a good location. It was not very long before we were en route to our new camp, and arriving, we soon had FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS everything in place. This was to be our head- quarters for some time, unless other orders were received. Upon the following day, after our new camp had been adopted. Colonel Miles called Colonel Bittle and gave him orders to go in command of Troop A of the Sixth cavalry to Camp Supply for horses and also more supplies, as they were going to make this a regular post. Upon these orders, Colonel Bittle expressed a desire that I be sent as scout and guide. This was a very easy matter to settle, and the follow- ing morning Troop A, with a string of wagons, set out for Camp Supply. Things went very smoothly the first day out, but on the second day after we had had our din- ner. Colonel Bittle and I were riding in advance of the wagons and troops about four hundred yards. I had to keep a sharp watch ahead. I saw the grass move about thirty yards ahead. I was ready for instant action, as experience as a scout had long before taught me to be. I fired when the grass moved, and after I fired Colonel Bittle turned and asked me, "What are you shooting at, trying to shoot my head off?" "No, I was shooting to your left." He said, "the bul- let went through my hat." We will return to — 59 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS the wagons, Colonel," I replied, "there are some Indians in front of us." "Very well," he said, "you are in charge and know the best." We returned to the wagon, which was coming up at a very slow^ace, and upon arriving where the shooting occurred, we discovered that I had hit the Indian just under the right arm, and that the bullet had come out under his left arm. Of course when a bullet from the hand cannon which I was carrying hit anything it was all over with them. Things were quiet enough on the rest of our journey to Camp Supply. We didn't even see a buffalo- We arrived at the camp some few days later, and upon our arrival Colonel Bittle was in- formed that there had been a bird dog sent to him from New York. The colonel was so en- thused over the new member to our outfit that he would not wait until he started back, but taking a few men and myself, he started out for a little hunt. CHAPTER XVI After leaving the trail and going some dis- tance, a bird was found. The soldiers were spread out on our right and left, while Colonel —60— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS Bittle and I had taken the center. The bird was killed, it dropping into some grass, and I had quite a little difficulty in finding it. While I was thusly engaged, Colonel Bittle continued ahead, looking for another shot. I found my bird and set out to catch up with them. When I was within about two hundred yards I was sur- prised to see two Indians following him. They were within fifty yards of him, and had their spears drawn to throw one into his body. I was unable to fire upon them, as Colonel Bittle w^as directly in front of me. Finally the colonel turned sharply to the right. This gave me a better opportunity. I raised by gun and fired. As I did the Indian in advance threw up his hands and dropped to the ground. Hearing the report of the gun, the colonel turned sharply around and demanded to know what I was do- ing. But it was not necessary to answer him, be- cause the dead Indian lay just behind him ar.d his companion stood with lifted hands. We met at the Indian and after patting me on the back he said, ''You have saved my life again." After the killing of the Indian we returned to Camp Supply, taking our prisoner with us. On the following morning the Indian told Colonel Lewis that he knew where there were some Squaws and Papooses that wanted to give — 61 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS up and stop roaming around half starved- It v^as decided that a detachment of troopers v^ould be sent out v^ith Colonel Bittle in command. As soon as the order had been issued I v^as sent for. We started out, and after going a little ways I moved up with Colonel Bittle and was ready for action when we reached a bluff. Now, said the Indian, "me go to where em squaws are and bring 'em back." Up the cliff he went, and when he reached the top he waived his hand, good bye. Just as he started to throw himself to the ground, my old rifle went off. He threw up his hands and came rolling back down the cliff. Colonel Bittle said, "Lewis, you seem to read these people like a book, why did you kill him?" "Colonel, the reason is very easily explained. If the Indian had been allowed his freedom he would have re- ported to the chief that we were returning with other supplies and horses, and by killing him I have saved the life of some of our soldiers," I answered. "Lewis, you are a wonder." After this we returned to Camp Supply. The next morning we prepared for our return trip for Wichita headquarters. We reached camp and found everything in good shape, but after I had been there five days Colonel Miles received information that there were fifty re- —62— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS cruits at Camp Supply for our detachment. And as I was the only available scout, I selected four good soldiers and started back for Camp Sup- ply. We reached Camp Supply without any trouble. After waiting for two days our boys arrived, but to hinder us they had a small wagon train, so upon their arrival we again started for Wichita. When we were within about twenty-eight miles of our camp on the Wichita river, we were then in about ten miles of the Canadian river. I was riding about four hundred yards in front of the troop, when I discovered forty mounted Indians coming. I rode back to the troop and gave orders for them to dismount and be ready for action. Even though the men were recruits, they seemed to realize the necessity of quick and accurate shooting. Laying on our stomach, we gave the Indians such a warm reception that they soon found out that we were too many for them, and dispersed at once. We continued on and when we reached the Canadian river we were surprised that Troop L had been out scouting for some few days and had gone into camp. We remained in camp with Troop L that night, and I was informed that there was a new scout there to pilot us to headquarters. I began to talk to him then. He FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS was a big, raw-boned fellow and seemed to know it all. We rested that night and all the following day. The next night when we were ready to leave the new scout informed me that we would go to our camp by the river route, which was then about fifteen miles from Horse Shoe Bend, where I had left them. He said the cause for moving was for a better camp, and also that there were a few Indians scattered in the vicinity of the old camp. When hearing the latter information I told the fellow that I would not go by the river route, but would go over the plains, as I had been in that section of the coun- try before and knew just about where to head in. ''All right," he said, "they can go with you if they want to." I told the boys if they wanted a fight in the night, which was a very unhandy thing to do, they could go with him, but if they wanted to reach camp in peace they had better come along with me. The four soldiers who had been to Camp Sup- ply with me had seen enough to know that I generally knew what I was talking about, so they said they were with me, and also advised the troopers they had better do likewise. *'A11 right," said the scout, **you fellows don't have to go with me, even though I was sent to take charge." —64— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS He departed on the route that he wanted us to take, and we went over the plains. We reached camp about 2 a.m. of the following morning, after leaving Troop L on the Canadian. After retiring we slept until about 8 a.m. After getting up Colonel Miles called me and asked the whereabouts of the new scout. I told him of his meeting us on the Canadian, and how he insisted that we return over the route by the river. After explaining why I did not care to come that route, I told him it would be a wise idea for a detachment of men to be sent out to his rescue. This was done. After going about five miles we met him coming, barefoot, coat off, hat gone and without his rifle. CHAPTER XVII He said he thought he had reached the camp of Colonel Miles and did not know the difference until he had reached the center of an Indian camp. Colonel Miles gave him orders to report at Camp Supply immediately, with sealed in- structions for Colonel Lewis to send him back to civil life. FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS Some few days after our new scout had been sent back to Camp Supply, they sent us an- other man, bringing with him thirty Allegheny Indians, who were to serve as scouts also. The country was becoming so wooly and the Indians getting so thick in this section it was understood in military circles that there was going to be a war. Johnston proved to be a real scout, and a bully good fellow, and after he had been in camp about a week he and I were sent to Camp Supply with a mule, which was packed with mail. Just as the sun was setting we saddled our ponies and made the start. We traveled all night, and until about 10 o'clock the following morning, when about twelve Indians discovered us. Seeing them, we crossed the river, and after going something like two or three miles, the Indians came close enough to shoot John- ston's horse. Johnston, taking his knife, cut the mail from the mule's back, handed it to me, and taking the saddle from the dead horse, put it on the mule. We then continued down the river for about eight miles, crossing back to the other side. We discovered that the Indians were lighting signal fires. This was to notify others to be on the outlook. After continuing along —66— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS for some time, Johnston stopped and said: "Lewis, you see those antilope over there on the ridge?" I answered, "Yes, and that isn't all they have only two legs." I told him that it would not do for us to con- tinue in this direction, for there was a bunch of those pests behind the hill waiting. We turned and crossed the river. We had not gone more than thirty yards in the river until John- ston's mule w^as shot. I was in advance about twenty feet, when I heard him hollow. Looking around, I saw him holding his gun above the water. I turned my horse and went back. I told him to not try to get on the horse, but to catch his tail. This he did, but as we were nearing the bank I became overbalanced and dropped the mail in the river. Before I had regained my balance the Indians hit my horse in the back, just behind the saddle, the bullet coming out between his fore legs. The horse scrambled out of the water, and as he did I jumped from his back and cut the saddle girth, pulling the bridle off of him. I turned him loose. He only went a few yards before he dropped dead. The bullets kept coming, and we being dis- mounted, began to feel a little nervous. John- FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS ston said, ''Let's get to the high grass." So we went for the river bottom, and into the tall grass. We then made our way to the cliff. Here we pulled our shoes off, so that the Indians could not track us. We found our way up the cliff until we reached the top, where we found a crevis in a rock which was hidden from view by a cedar tree. So we hid here until dark. At one time the Indians came within forty yards of us, but did not find our place of concealment. As night came on Johnston drew a long breath and said, 'Those Indians came very near getting us, old head. It is dark now, we had better give them the slip. I don't believe I was born to be scalped by those blood-thirsty dea- mons, anyway." We started, and after going some distance we came face to face with two of them. Out came our knives. We started to work on them and after a few seconds we passed on. We contin- ued on until we reached Camp Supply without any further trouble. We found a guard on picket, who called the officer of the day, who took us into camp and gave us some breakfast, and after this we turned in for sleep. It must have been about 2 am. when we reached camp. _68— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS And it was about 12 o'clock the following day when we woke up, and after having a dinner, we told of our trip. That night we prepared ourselves for the re- turn trip, getting horses and our saddles ready. Colonel Lewis gave me some dispatches for Col- onel Miles; we also had some letters for the boys. We started back over the plains, but this time we went further south. This was done to give old trails a wide berth. In this manner w^e kept out of sight of the Indians. The Indians generally hung around on the trails to ambush people as they were passing, but people generally stuck to the trails pretty close. We continued on our way back for Col- onel Miles headquarters, not knowing that he had moved, or that we were in a nest of Indians. The only thing that we could do was to back track, which we did without hesitation. We re- turned to the plains, and it was here that I found Johnston to be a number one shot. We had to do a little fancy shooting and as w^e were in a short distance of camp, we took a chance at firing and running. After drifting around in a wooded patch, we finally dodged them, and after going two or three miles further up the river we ran into an- —69— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS other bunch. Being on the plains, we knew how to keep them at their distance. We reached camp in due time. Things at this time had become very different from what they were when we left. The men were rested and the horses were in fine condi- tion. Also they had plenty of provisions. The afternoon after our arrival, Colonel Miles told me that he would like for me and Johnston to take up the advance and keep watering places in view, as they were to travel the next day. We started out at sundown, and about 4 o'clock the next morning we found water. We returned to our command and reported the same. We met them coming in our direction, so we returned to the water, which was discovered about 10:30. Johnston and I went to sleep, and after a good nap we started out again, that we might locate some more water. In this manner we kept plenty of water for the horses and men. We were then camped about five miles from a canyon, while Troop A, of the Sixth cavalry, was on the opposite side. The Indians were camped in the canyon. Colonel Miles, knowing that the cavalry was to join him, gave me a dis- patch to the commanding officer and told me to make all haste possible, as he wanted to catch FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS the Indians while there. I reached the troop and delivered the dispatch but upon finding so many Indians, he refused to obey orders. When Colonel Miles arrived at the canyon he was surprised to find that the Indians had made their escape. The lieutenant of the cavalry was tried by a court-martial, and suspended from rank. Taking his pay, he left in a cowardly manner. We went into camp after finding that our game had gone, and remained for about a week. Then breaking camp, we returned to Wichita, where we established ourselves and stayed for a week. Colonel Miles told Johnston and I that he was going to move east, and that we would do as be- fore; go in advance and locate camping places and also water. On our first night we located water about twenty miles from our command, so we returned again to our command. At this location we stayed for some few days, until I discovered a new trail of the Indians. These trails led in the direction of Salt Fork and the Canadian river. We had only been in this camp about three days, when we began to get ready to move. Johnston and I were scouting one night and —71 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS found an Indian camp. Upon finding the camp, we returned and reported the same to Colonel Miles. And we also found a watering hole about eight miles from where the camp was then located. That morning we moved to where the water had been located. After the sun had set we again started in the direction of the Indian camp. It was about 2 o'clock when we arrived within a half mile of the camp. We all dismounted and waited until day light. Johnston and I made a scouting trip for the purpose of locating the horses. We found them, and returned and reported to Colonel Miles, with the expectation of him sending a de- tachment to stampede them. But instead, he sent Captain Madden, of Troop L, with instruc- tions that they charge the Indians at daybreak. I started off with the troopers, when called by Colonel Bittle, who told me to lay down beside him, that he might need me later on. Just at day break the captain charged the In- dians, and after some fierce fighting an Indian shot the bugler, and as he was dying he blew ''Recall." The troops retreated, and upon see- ing this, gave orders that the entire force charge. — 72 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS CHAPTER XVIIi As we moved up for the attack we found that most of the bucks had escaped, but this did not keep our men from starting a massacre. I told Colonel Miles that the Indians, who were one thousand yards away, were a good mark, and as they had killed our bugler I would even things up. Swinging my gun I took quick aim and fired. He fell to the ground. The second shot missed its mark. As the massacre went on one of our men lifted his rifle to hit a squaw, when in English she said, 'Tlease don't, I two sisters here." Upon hearing this we immediately started in to find her sisters. We found the youngest one, but could not find the other. This enraged the soldiers again, and in a few minutes a wholesale massacre started. This lasted until about three hundred Indian women and girls had been killed. There were also a few of the old men killed. After the massacre we again started in pur- suit of the Indians, and had a running fight in which we killed a few of them. Colonel Bittle and I were side by side during the fight, which was to the left of our men. I had another op- portunity to get another Indian. This I did. FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS Colonel Bittle said, 'There is another one for our bugler, Lewis." After a little more fighting we went into camp and after a short time the entire command came in. We had grand times listening to the tales of the girls, who told some interesting stories of the Indians as to how they had been treated. This fight occurred on the seventeenth of Octo- ber, 1874. After being informed that the In- dians had carried their sister away, Johnston, who was sitting on the opposite side of the camp fire, nodded his head for me to come there. I knew what he wanted, so I picked up my rifle and a fresh supply of ammunition, making my way to Colonel Bittle, and asked him for his forty-five. He asked, ''What do you want with my pistol?" I said, "I am going after the girls' sister." He returned, "I am for you, go to it." Here is where the funny stuff started. We picked up a pair of Indian blankets, moccasins and braiding our long hair and saddling our horses, we started on the Indians' trail. After several hours riding we passed the place of our running fight and proceeded on our way to find the camp. After about twelve hours riding we came in sight of a little camp, which was lo- cated in a little hollow. On the left side there —74— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS was a steep cliff, while on the right a small creek. After dismounting we crept up within a few yards of the camp to wait an opportunity in which we could liberate the girl. Johnston went to the north end of the camp, while I was next to the creek on the south end. The Indian camp was in such a shape that I judged them to be about four hundred in num- ber. It was about 10 :30 p.m. when we first saw the girl, who was being thrown into a tepee. But we were unable to reach her that night. So at daybreak we crawled out of the camp and went back to where we had left our horses. After getting our horses we went back some dis- tance from their camp and lay down for a little sleep. It was about sundown when Johnston awoke me, I being the last to take my turn in sleeping. We again started for the Indian camp. Upon arriving we took our posts. After some few minutes there I again saw the girl. It being dark and our being concealed from the Indians, she could not see us, nor did we want to be seen, for it meant certain death if we were discovered. —75 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS CHAPTER XIX We stuck to the post well. The Indians not being pursued, became very brave. On the sec- ond night they were sleeping all over the ground and about half the number of sentinels- I crawled up in about six yards of where the girl was sleeping with my knife in my mouth. She was sleeping near a big buck Indian. As the night wore on more of them lay down to sleep. About midnight they were nearly all sleeping, and the fire had burned very low. I crawled up to the girl. Laying my finger on her arm, I gave her a little gentle pinch. She was startled for a minute, but realized that help was at hand. She almost fainted. Reaching over the girl's body, I gave a quick jab with my bowie, sending it to the Indian's heart. Not having time to enjoy this scene, I whispered to the girl to come and be quick or we may never get out. She needed very little encouragement, so we started on our way. Having gone but a short distance, I saw something crawling. Whip- ping out my knife, I made a slash at it. There was a crash and a shower of sparks. It was then that I saw it was Johnston. He said, **Lewis, you certainly gave me some surprise." We had gone only about thirty yards from the FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS camp, when a guard spied us. He fired- John- ston said, 'That is the last thing on this earth you will do." So saying, he fired at the Indian, who was then only about ten steps from us. We did not stop to see what the outcome was of this shot, but made a bee line for our horses. Mount- ing, Johnston pitched my rifle to me and we were off as fast as possible. The moon was just rising, and we were at some disadvantage, for the Indians could see to follow U3 and shoot at close range. It was some three or four hours before we gave them the dodge, but when we did there was little time lost. Time had passed very rapidly, and it was on the morning of October the twenty-third that Colonel Bittle became very nervous because of our not returning, and had sent a few of the Al- legheny Indians to see if they could locate us. The Indian scouts had sighted us a few miles ^way, and had returned and reported to the colonel that we would arrive in a short while, and that we had the girl, or prisoner, they did not know w^hich. Upon being informed of this. Colonel Miles, Colonel Bittle and tw^o troops of cavalry started to meet us. When they met us there was great cheering and shooting in honor —77 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS of our return. After reaching camp and having a good rest, we heard more Indian stories from the girls that had been captured. It was August, 1873, when they were captured, and had not been res- cued the eighteenth, 1874. I also learned that it was their parents that I had been sent to guide a company of soldiers over the Smoky hill route to bury. The Indians had massacred them, scalping the small babies before killing them. After listening for a while to the young lady that Johnston and I had released, she related what a horrible sight they had witnessed- They said that the Indians had captured two soldier scouts one afternoon and brought them to camp. One of the men had been shot through the leg and was suffering when they were brought in there tied with buck skin strings. They were kicked, slapped and were treated in every torturous way possible. When the men asked for mercy, the Indian chief told them that they had not been tortured yet. The white girls were immediately bound so that they could not release the prisoners, who were taken about thirty yards away and tied over an ant bed. The girl said that they could hear the men groaning from pain from where they were. It — 78— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS was something awful that these men went through with. After the third day without food and water, they became unconscious. The In- dian chief inquired if the ants had eaten their eyes out. Being told that they had, he ordered them tied to the stake. ''I had one look at them," said the girl. ''The ants had eaten back in their heads, and their eye balls had dropped out." After tieing the men to the stake they gath- ered grass and brush, which was piled until they were almost covered up. With burning torches they gathered around them, dancing and bran- dishing their torches in the air- This had no effect on the prisoners, as they had fainted from exposure. At last the flames were applied to the grass, and in a few minutes the men could be seen leaning forward, and were burned into a crisp. After this horrible execution, the men were taken from the stake and carried a short distance away, and there left. In speaking of the trouble that had taken place before the troops had been sent in this section, she related to us one incident there with the Indians. Scouts had come into camp with the scalps of women and babies, and also some men in their belts. This was the first we had FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS heard of the soldiers that Colonel Miles had sent in search of the wagon train. It was then decided that our command w^ould return to the north end of Stake Plains. This done, we again went into camp. We would have remained where we were, but the Canadian river had so much lye in it we could not drink it. After being in camp on the creek on Stake Plains for some time, a number of Indians came in and gave themselves up. This was due to the fact that they were starving. When this oc- curred we decided that we would remain here for the winter. Things were very quiet in camp, nothing of an exciting nature transpiring. All the boys did was to play poker and enjoy camp life. The Indians continued coming in and surren- dering themselves in little squads. But one aft- ernoon just at dusk an Indian came into camp, carrying a white rag on his gun. He inquired for the big pale face chief. Colonel Miles an- swered him. The Indian had very little to say, but that his chief and twelve men were a short distance away and wanted to surrender, provid- ing they would not kill them. —80- FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS CHAPTER XX After being assured that they would not be killed, he returned to his chief. In about thirty minutes the Indian chief came to our camp. When he arrived he saw the young lady that had been a captive for so long under him. Upon seeing her he seemed to be very glad. Going up to her, he said, *'How." The girl turned to Colonel Miles and said, "This is the man that killed my mother and father, and I will never be satisfied until I am revenged." So saying, she made a lunge for Lieutenant Henig's pistol. The lieutenant prevented her from getting hold of his gun. But some few nights after that Troop A was on guard, and having a number of friends in this troop, it was arranged with one of the Allegheny Indians to induce the chief to slip out of the correl and to pass the girl's tent. It was about 12 o'clock that night that the chief came by, and as he did so the girl was there to meet him. With a revolver, she shot him through the breast. Then with a big butcher knife, she cut him until he was dead. Just at this time the guard who was on that post called for the ser- geant of the guard, who was very dilitary in answering. When finally he came up the guard walking post told him that the Indian had tried FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS to escape and he was forced to fire. ''That was exactly right," he retorted, '*when they cross the dead line you know your orders." The girls remained in our camp for quite a little while. When the boys saw the girls start for a walk they would gather around them for some more Indian stories, and after they had finished telling their Indian stories the boys would throw dollar bills to them. This was the only way they had of spending their money. The girls' people were living in North Georgia. The girls were finally sent to Camp Supply, and from there to their homes. It was during the winter of 1874 that Colonel Mile's started to build a post where we were then camped. This post was named ''Reno," in honor of Colonel Miles' best friend, who was in command of a post in North Dakota. After the post was under construction I was doing a great deal of scouting in this section of the country; also carrying dispatches from Colonel Miles to Camp Supply. Colonel Miles ordered Colonel Bittle to take one troop of Cavalry in wagons and go to Camp Supply, which was about one hundred miles from Camp Reno, and for him to take eight of the Allegheney Indian Scouts, for they were ex- —82— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS tra good scouts, and could do most anything that was to be done. Colonel Bittle had been gone one day, when Colonel Miles called me and said that he had a very important dispatch that must go to Camp Supply with all speed possible- He told me to take the best horse in camp, and when I had overtaken Colonel Bittle to exchange for the best one that he had. After putting on my buck skin suit, I painted my face as an Indian warrior, and getting my rifle and revolver, I started. I did not overtake Colonel Bittle and his troop until the next morning just as they were eating breakfast. After we had finished breakfast I told Colonel Bittle that I had orders to exchange horses with him for a fresh one. He told me that one of his Allegheny Indians had been out scout- ing in that direction the evening before and that he had seen an Indian. To his opinion it would be better for me to remain with them until they had passed the next watering hole, which was about three miles further on. I thanked him and told him that I didn't think there would be any trouble, and started ahead. I bid the boys good bye and went on. After going about two miles I came to the top of a lit- tle rise. Shading my eyes with my hands, I —83— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS looked in every direction. About that time my pony started, and I sav^ an Indian in the tall grass, which v^as only a fev^ yards from the water hole that Colonel Bittle had told me of. But not being sure, I went on down, but for safety first, I swung my rifle to the right side, with the barrel across the saddle. While my horse was drinking I saw an Indian move. Swinging my rifle to the spot, he said, "Citaw." I replied "Citaw," and then Citaw was repeated for fully five minutes. I came to the conclusion that there must be a thousand of them. I did not know what to do. Colonel Bit- tie had made me promise to return to him and report if I sighted any Indians, and after the second thought I decided it would be better for me to go on, for I knew if I should start back they would kill me, and I knew that they had scouts out and that one of them had reported that the wagon train was approaching. So I continued on my waj^ for about five miles without seeing another Indian, and as I turned around a hill I came within six thousand yards of five of the red deamons. Dismounting, I used my horse for a breast works, and also as a rest for my gun. I soon made three of them kiss the ground and stay with it. The others thought — 84 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS that it was time for them to hunt tall grass, which they did. CHAPTER XXI I went on to Camp Supply and delivered my dispatch. On the following day I started on my return trip with a return message. I again gave the old trail the wide berth, as I had nearly lost my life on this trip. I reached Camp Reno with- out any trouble of any kind, and had about ten days rest before Colonel Bittle returned. When he arrived he told me that they had had a fight with the Indians at the water hole, and that one of the Allegheny scouts had been wounded and four mules killed. He also said that they had killed about fifty of the Indians, but on the return trip he had another encounter, this time taking about twenty-five prisoners. It was not long until an Indian appeared and asked for the ''big pale face chief" that had the long shoot. He had reference to me and my needle gun. I was called to headquarters. Then he said, "Big Indian chief give much money and five ponies for your scalp, and pointed his finger —85— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS in the direction of where my last fight occurred. I was sure there was no harm in him, so I showed him my gun. He said, "I will give you five ponies for it right now." After joking with him for some time, I asked him, ''What do you want with it." He replied, *'I want to kill heap much brave scout." After telling him that I did not care to sell it, he turned to Colonel Miles and wanted to buy a cannon. The colonel asked him, ''What do you want with a cannon, to kill my men, I suppose?" "No," he replied, "I want to kill cow boys. We kill soldiers with spears." The colonel told him that he would not sell him one, and at this he went away. On the day before Colonel Bittle left for Camp Supply, and my departure the following day, Johnston and White Horse, the Allegheny chief, who was in charge of the Indian scouts, had gone on a hunt and had not returned when I left. After I had returned he was relating to me of his hunting trip. They had gone about thirty miles from Camp Reno, when they found a buf- falo, which they killed and was skinning it when six Indians appeared and attacked them. They did not think it best to fight them, for the shoot- ing would attract the attention of others, so —86— FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS mounting their horses, they returned to camp and reported to Colonel Miles, who sent troops back to locate them. Returning to where the attack had taken place, he said that he and White Horse were in advance of the troops about three hundred yards. They discovered the Indian chief of the attacking party, riding in their direction. The chief Allegheny scout told him to wait, that he would see what the chief of the Com- manchees wanted. So saying, he left him and approached the Commanchee chief. They met on a level stretch of ground and went together like cats. The Commanchee chief was very un- fortunate in making the attack, but they went to the ground. Seeing the condition of their chief, the Commanchee Indians surrounded them. The Allegheny chief seeing this, jumped upon the back of his horse and started riding his horse in a circle. He did this in order to keep their attention attracted, so the troopers could capture them, which they did. After capturing them, they finished their job by going to the Indian camp and capturing the rest of them. After he had finished telling me his story, I told him of my experiences. !7 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS CHAPTER XXII As we had nothing to do for a few days, Johnston and myself and five of the Allegheny scouts set out to get a general location of other things. Making our way about one hundred miles from Camp Reno, we pitched our camp. Three of us would remain in camp, while the other four would go in opposite directions. One of the Allegheny Indian scouts came in one aft- ernoon and reported that he had located an In- dian camp and that he believed they held a white girl prisoner. So taking two Allegheny scouts with me, we rode as close to this camp as it was safe for us to do. Leaving our horses, we approached the camp on our hands and knees. We stayed here all night, but could not learn the location of the girl. At day break we returned to our horses, and returned to the camp. We slept until about noon, and returned early in order that we might be sure to learn her location. We were very fortunate in learning, so putting on my Indian garb, about midnight we crawled up near where she was sleeping. One of the scouts crawled up on one side and the other on the other, while I crawled toward her head. As we were cutting the cords which bound her hands and feet one — 88 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS of the Indians moved. The scout next to him stabbed him through the heart. As she was raising up the other Indian moved. He suffered the same fate as his mate. She readily under- stood the situation, and was crawling behind us. As she crawled through the entrance of the camp we ran into another Indian. This one suf- fered a fate worse than the others, for he was stabbed with knives. After leaving the Indian camp we were fol- lowed by several Indians, with whom we had a running fight all the next day. After being in camp for about two days, Johnston and myself and two of the Allegheny Indians started with a dispatch for Camp Sup- ply. The Indians were coming into this territory from the north, hanging about to see if they could not add another scalp to their collections. The first day and night we rode as fast as pos- sible, stopping to eat breakfast, and after rest- ing for some time we again started. It was about 9 a.m. when we discovered ten mounted Indians coming in our direction. Seeing them, we made our way to the bluff. Before we, reached our destination three of our horses had been killed and the fourth one had at least eight flesh wounds about over him. —89 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS As we were nearing the bluff a bullet hit me in the highthigh. This did not amount to very much, as it hit no veins (there is still a scar where it hit me). One of the Indian scouts was hit in the arm by a bullet, which severed an ar- tery and every beat of the heart the blood would gush six inches. I saw that he would not live very long at this rate, so dismounting from my horse, I tore the shirt from my back and with the aid of a stick I soon had the flow of blood stopped. We soon made quick work of four of the red varmints. We did not have any further trouble with them, and at sundown we started on our journey again. The scout had bled so much that he was too weak to walk, so we had to tie him to the saddle of our only horse. We walked all night and reached Camp Supply about 10 o'clock the following morning. The Indian and myself were sent to the hos- pital, while Johnston and the other were sent back to Camp Reno with a return dispatch. I saw Johnston some time later and he told me that he and his companion had a successful trip, without anything occurring. However, they had to keep their eyes peeled. After I had been in the hospital something — 90 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS like three weeks, Colonel Lewis asked me if I could carry an important dispatch to Camp Reno. I told him that I thought my leg would stand the trip, so I proceeded to get my horse, gun, revolver and cartridge belt, and once again I saddled my horse and set out for Colonel Miles* headquarters. As I left camp I gave all trails a wide berth, leaving them fifteen to twenty miles, and striking out over rough country. As luck would have it, I happened to no mishaps during this trip, and only saw a few Indians. However, that was perfectly safe, so long as they did not see me. After getting to Camp Reno, I delivered my dispatch, and for the next two or three weeks I took life easy, in order to let my wounded leg recuperate. Having gotten quite sound again, Johnston hailed me to go buffalo hunting. I was only too glad to go, so the next morning he and I, accompanied by one of the Indian scouts, struck out. We were very successful, having brought down four buffalos, and on our return trip we crossed an Indian trail, running toward Camp Supply. We began an investigation and found them to be about one hundred strong. We hurried on in and reported to Colonel Miles, and after some few minutes we were ordered out again, this time to accompany Colonel Bittle, —91— FIGHTS AND ADVEN TURES WITH THE INDIANS who was to take five troops of cavalry. We set out that night and followed it up with all haste possible, but not until the morning of the fourth day did we encounter them. Then we took them completely by surprise. As soon as they discovered that they were being pur- sued they prepared for action. We also got ready for them. Getting our gattling guns in play, we went after them. They held their posi- tion for almost an hour, but finding that we were killing them out so fast, they made a break for their horses, mounted them, and we had a running fight. Some of them made good their escape. How- ever, there was something like fifty fell during the skirmish. Due to the fact that the Indians had scattered so badly, we could not follow them with any success, so we turned our feet homeward, and reaching camp again in safety, we took up the dull routine of camp life. CHAPTER XXin After resting a few days. Colonel Miles told Johnston and me that we were going to have to — 92 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS do some hard work, and also stand guard, as he was going to complete this fort. After some few days he told us that he would rather we would skirmish around the camp and try and get some of the Indian snipers which were giv- ing us a great deal of trouble. We had a nice job in front of us, so we started cleaning up our guns, but, however, we soon thinned them out. Day by day the work progressed, until we had several log cabins erected. It was then that Johnston and I were sent to Camp Supply for wagons to haul ceiling with which we were to finish our cabins. It was about the fifteenth of December, 1874, that we started on this trip. Colonel Miles told us that he was going to send three of the Indian scouts with us, as he expected us to have quite a great deal of trouble. They were also to assist us in bringing the wagons. We traveled all the first night, and just as we reached a bunch of bushes on a little rise, before crossing the Wich- ita river, w^e stopped to eat a cold lunch and let the horses nibble the short grass around us. After an hour's rest we again started on our journey. After crossing the Canadian river we ran into a nest of Indians. Turning into the cliffs, we —93 — FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS were pursued by fifty of them. Going over the cliff, we thought that we could outrun them, but we discovered that we were cut off on the other side. There was nothing for us to do but to re- turn to the cliff, and this we were forced to do as fast as possible, and this was too slow, for the lead was too warm to suit me. It seemed that luck was against us, for they again killed three of our horses ; just as I was go- ing over a little rise one of the scoundrels shot my horse through and through, the bullet cut- ting my trousers on both sides. As the horse fell I tried to release my feet, but could not, the horse falling and rolling over me. Johnston and the Indians held them off. It was about two hours before I was able to help them any, and it was very little that I could do then, for my lungs were hurt and bleeding. We remained in the cliff all that day. That night we left (by aid I was able to walk) and traveled all night. The next morning we stopped in a patch of woods. There we stayed until dark. Again we set out and traveled all night, arriving at Camp Supply the next morn- ing. As I was being carried into the hospital I met Amous Chapman coming out. He was limping FIGHTS AND ADVENTURES WITH THE INDIANS a little, but said that he was going to return to Camp Reno with Johnston. He said, ''You have stayed with those scoundrels well." ''Well, Amous," I said, "you may be right, but they have almost got me this time." I was in the hospital about three months, and when I was able to get out the Indians had sur- rendered and were very peaceful. So I returned home for a rest and to enjoy the sweet blessing of civilization. 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