d kept at a distance from the convoy, perfectly
contented so long as the opposition were prisoners of their own
choosing. Captain O'Neill evidently understood the wishes of his
superior officer, and never once were his charges allowed within hailing
distance of the party of inspection. As far as exerting any influence
was concerned, for that matter, all of us might have remained back at
the post and received the report on the commander's return. Yet there
was a tinge of uncertainty as to the result, and all concerned wanted
to hear it at the earliest moment. The inspection party did not keep us
long in waiting, for after a brief conference they turned and rode for
the contractors under escort. We rode forward, the troop closed up in
close formation about the two vehicles, and the general tension rose to
that of rigidity. We halted quietly within easy hearing distance, and
without noticing us the commandant addressed himself to the occupants of
the conveyances, who were now standing on the seats.

"Gentlemen," said he, with military austerity, "the quality and
condition of your cattle places them beyond our consideration. Beef
intended for delivery at this post must arrive here with sufficient
flesh to withstand the rigors of our winter. When possible to secure
them, we prefer Northern wintered cattle, but if they are not available,
and we are compelled to receive Southern ones, they must be of the first
quality in conformation and flesh. It now becomes my duty to say to you
that your beeves are rough, have been over-driven, are tender-footed and
otherwise abused, and, having in view the best interests of the service,
with the concurrence of my associates, I decline them."

The decision was rendered amid breathless silence. Not a word of
exultation escaped one of our party, but the nervous strain rather
intensified.

Mr. Y----, the congressman, made the first move. Quietly alighting from
the vehicle, he held a whispered conversation with his associates, very
composedly turned to the commandant, and said:

"No doubt you are aware that there are higher authorities than the post
commander and quartermaster of Fort Buford. This higher court to which I
refer saw fit to award a contract for five million pounds of beef to be
delivered at this post on foot. Any stipulations inserted or omitted in
that article, the customary usages of the War Department would govern.
If you will kindly look at the original contract, a copy of