I said. “When do you go a-tagging after it?”

“This evening with the headquarter’s guide, Heoikim, and the express rider, James Cooke. Lord, what a dreary business!”

“Better learn the news we have concerning your back trail before you start. Ask Captain Franklin to mention it to the General.”

“Certainly,” said Buell. “I would to God my regiment were ordered here with the rest of them, I’m that sick of the three forts and the scalping-party fighting on the Schoharie.”

“It’s what you are likely to get for a long while yet,” said I. “And now will you or Richards guide me and my party to headquarters?”