Ordinarily Ray would himself have ridden to the far front and personally
investigated the conditions, but he was anxious that Field should
understand he held the full confidence of his temporary commander. He
wished Field to realize that now he had opportunity for honorable
distinction, and a chance to show what was in him and, having sent him
forward, Ray meant to rely on his reports and be ready to back, if
possible, his dispositions. Nothing so quickly demolishes prejudice in
garrison as prowess in the field. Not infrequently has an officer gone
forth under a cloud and returned under a crown. It is so much easier to
be a hero in a single fight than a model soldier through an entire
season--at least it was so in the old days.
But the moment Mr. Field dismounted and, leaving his horse with the
others along the slope, had gone crouching to the crest, he levelled his
glasses for one look, then turned excitedly and began rapid signals to
his followers. Presently a young trooper came charging down, making
straight for Ray. "The lieutenant's compliments," said he, "but there's
a dozen Sioux in sight, and he wishes to know shall he charge."
A dozen Sioux in sight! That was unusual.
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