When we had passed the camp, and were between it and the river, we turned and started back.
By this maneuver we avoided detection by the Sioux scouts.

The general kept the command wholly out of sight until within a mile of the village.

Then the advance guard was halted till all the soldiers caught up.

Orders were issued that at the sound of the charge the whole command was to rush into the village.
As we halted on the summit of the hill overlooking the still unsuspecting Sioux, General Carr called to his bugler: "Sound the charge!" The bugler, in his excitement, forgot the notes of the call.

Again the general ordered "Sound the charge!" and again the musician was unable to obey the command.
Quartermaster Hays, who had obtained permission to join the command, comprehended the plight of the bugler.