I made desperate effort to break away, but two men held me, one with knee pressed into my chest, the other uplifting the butt of a pistol over my head.

There was not a word spoken, but I could see they were in uniform, although the fellow kneeling on me had the features and long black hair of an Indian.

My horse started to bolt, but his rein was gripped, and then a third figure, mounted, rode into the range of my vision.
"Search him for weapons, Tonepah," said a boyish voice briefly.

"There are pistols in the saddle holsters, but he may have others.

Then tie him up as quick as you can." There was no mistaking my captors--the young dragoon lieutenant, and the three who had escaped with him.