“This is remarkable, for when I went to the adjutant’s this morning I met seven ladies, all of whom asked me about this prisoner, Silk Lasso Sam. On my way back a dozen were lying in ambush for me, and I had to tell the story over again. Just now I was waylaid by Miss De Sutro, and she questioned me like a Philadelphia lawyer, and now you have no questions to ask.” “I have not, sir, for I am not in command of Pioneer Post.” “Well, I do not know whether you are or not, for you command about two-thirds of the officers,” was the gallant reply. “Yet I am under orders myself, colonel.” “And obey, I have noticed; but let me tell you that I am more than glad to have this man Arden taken out of my keeping, for I did not relish having to order him hanged.” “I am glad, too, sir, on his sister’s account; but I trust that he will not be allowed to go free through some trick of the law, for, though I do not believe in capital punishment, still such a man should be imprisoned for life, I think.” “And I agree with you, though if hanging is justifiable he richly deserves such a fate. I am now going to see him, and I will drop in and see you on my way back,” and the colonel passed on his way. The prisoner arose as Colonel Dunwoody entered the cabin and bowed courteously. “Pardon me, sir, but you see that I cannot be hospitable even in my own house,” he said, with a sad smile. “Resume your seat, Arden, and tell me why you desired this interview?” “I have heard, sir, that a requisition has been sent to you for my body, by the Governor of Illinois. May I ask if it is true, Colonel Dunwoody?” “It is, sir.” “There is, then, a conflict of authority, it would seem, between the military and the civil authorities regarding me?” “Well, no, only there were crimes alleged to have been committed by you in the State of Illinois, which the governor wishes to try you for. My authority is here, for your crimes committed upon the border, but this requisition takes precedence in that you are said to be an escaped convict and your crimes were committed against the State of Illinois prior to your lawless deeds on this frontier. That is all there is in it, Mr. Arden.” “I thank you, sir; but is there no possibility that I can be kept here for my execution and not be sent back to Illinois?” “I can see none.” “You could not assume the responsibility of detaining me?” “I could not, and, to be frank with you, Mr. Arden, I am more than glad that my hands will be clear of your execution.” “Yet you offered a reward for my body, dead or alive?” “Very true in the discharge of my duty, and were you my own brother I would have you hanged upon the day set. You are now to go out of my charge, and I am glad of it.” “You do not appear to be revengeful, Colonel Dunwoody?” “I am not, I hope, for it is a feeling one should be above allowing a place in his heart, from my standpoint.” “May I ask your particular reason for being glad to send me to Illinois?”