The sooner the better.

And good luck to you, my boy!" An hour later I was on my way.

At dusk I crossed the Smoky Hill River.
I did not urge my horse much, as I was saving him for the latter end of the journey, or for any run I might have to make should the "wild boys" jump me.
Though I kept a sharp watch through the night I saw no Indians, and had no adventures worth relating.

Just at daylight I found myself approaching Saw Log River, having ridden about seventy-five miles.
A company of colored cavalry, under command of Major Cox, was stationed at this point.

I approached the camp cautiously.