Night overtook us on a high ridge covered with loose, rounded
bowlders, over which it was necessary to lead the horses slowly, with
considerable clatter and some bruises to man and beast. The rough road
lasted until a considerable descent was made on the western side, and
ended on the edge of a grassy valley.
At this point Weaver advised that the horses should be left and the
command proceed on foot; for if the Indians were in camp at the rapids
it would be impossible to approach mounted without alarming them,
while if on foot the noise of the rushing water would cover the sound
of all movements.
Six men were sent back to a narrow defile to prevent the attacking
party from being surprised by the detachment of Indians which had
taken the northern trail, should they intend to rejoin their friends
at the rapids. Upon the recommendation of the scouts I determined to
defer making an attack until after three o'clock, for they assured me
that at that time the enemy would be feeling quite secure from pursuit
and be in their deepest sleep.
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