Their leading chief and other warriors were becoming sullen and insolent.

The Post was garrisoned by only two companies of infantry and one troop of cavalry.

General Hazen, who was at the post, was endeavoring to pacify the Indians; I was appointed as his special scout.
Early one morning in August I accompanied him to Fort Zarrah, from which post he proceeded, without an escort, to Fort Harker.
Instructions were left that the escort with me should return to Larned the next day.

After he had gone I went to the sergeant in command of the squad and informed him I intended to return that afternoon.

I saddled my mule and set out.