That was the plan mapped out.
Murphy's orders were to intercept his column somewhere between the Rosebud and the Big Horn, and I figure there is about one chance out of a hundred that the Indians let him get that far alive.

No other scout along this border would take such a detail.

I know, for there were two here who failed to make good when the job was thrown at them--just naturally faded away," and the soldier's eyes sparkled.

"But that old devil of a Murphy just enjoys such a trip.

He started off as happy as ever I see him." "How far will he have to ride ?" "Oh, 'bout three hundred miles as the crow flies, a little west of north, and the better part of the distance, they tell me, it's almighty rough country for night work.