The commanding officer of Fort Dodge was very anxious to send dispatches to Fort Larned, but the scouts, like those at Fort Hays, were backward about volunteering.
Fort Larned was my Post, and I wanted to go there anyhow.

So I told Austin I would carry the dispatches, and if any of the boys wanted to go along I would be glad of their company.

This offer was reported to the commanding officer.

He sent for me, and said he would be glad to have me take the dispatches, if I could stand the trip after what I had already done.
"All I want is a fresh horse, sir," said I.
"I am sorry we haven't a decent horse," he replied, "but we have a reliable and honest Government mule, if that will do you." "Trot out the mule," I told him.

"It is good enough for me.