“But, Surgeon Powell, you spoke last week of desiring to run to Chicago upon important business of your own, and I desire to say that I will make you the bearer of my despatch to the general, giving all the papers in the matter, which can be used against this man upon his trial there, and which will go far toward hanging him, a result most devoutly to be desired.” “I thank you, Colonel Dunwoody, and I appreciate the honor.” “You are to see the State’s attorney and place him in possession of all the facts of the case against this outlaw, and yet this is to remain a secret, as I do not wish to be thought to influence the case, though, of course, the just deserts of the man is hanging. You can therefore get ready to return with Detective Raymond and his prisoner, and be especially careful that he does not escape them, for he is no ordinary man and they may not be accustomed to the ways of this wild land.” “I will endeavor to obey your orders in all things, Colonel Dunwoody.” “I know that well, Doctor Powell. But say nothing of your going, only be ready to start on the coach with the prisoner and his guards.” “I will, sir.” After a few other words of instruction from Colonel Dunwoody, Surgeon Powell left headquarters accompanied by Buffalo Bill. The scout accompanied the doctor to his quarters, and there seemed to be something upon his mind. At last he said: “Frank, did you see those papers?” “What papers?” “The letter from the general and the requisition of the governor?” “Yes, I saw them.” “I thought I noticed you reading them once.” “I did. But why?” “Were they regular?” “Perfectly.” “Seal, letter heading, and all?” “Everything was regular, Bill. Why do you ask?” “I do not know, unless being a scout detective makes me suspicious of everything nowadays.” “Yes, and I feel the same way in many things.” “Well, you are going along, so if there is anything wrong I will be glad to know that you will be on hand to thwart it.” “What do you really suspect, Bill?” “I don’t know, but I am as suspicious as a coyote.” “Well, as you say, I will be along and will keep my eyes open, and I will go prepared for work. I am glad that you gave me a hint, for I was not at all suspicious in that quarter, I admit, and now I will be upon my guard.” As the scout turned away to go to his quarters Frank Powell looked after him a moment and muttered: “Yes, Bill, you have set me to thinking.” The coming of the three detectives, with an intimation that a mistake had been made, and with a requisition for the prisoner from the Governor of Illinois spread quickly around the fort. It ran like wildfire through the officers’ quarters, the barracks, and the settlement. Rumors of all kinds were flying about, that Colonel Dunwoody had overstepped his authority in trying the outlaw chief and his men by military court, and that he would meet with a strong reprimand if not something more severe.