I had hardly arrived before the trader came in and told me that Major McLaughlin, the Indian agent, wanted to see me.

News travels very fast in the Indian country, especially in war times.

Someone about the Post who had seen me driving in had hurried to headquarters to inform the agent that Buffalo Bill had arrived by way of reenforcements.
As soon as I got my chilled blood into circulation I went to the major's quarters, and informed him of the purpose of my visit.

We were old friends, and he was very glad to see me, but he was much concerned on learning what I intended to do.
"That is impossible!" he said.

"The Sioux are threatening a great war.
At this very moment we do not know when the Indians here at the Agency may rise.