made careful
inquiries as to just how many Police were in the fight. I could see that
it gave him a shock to learn that the Police had to retire. This was a
new experience for him. He was intensely anxious to learn also--though
he would not allow himself to appear so--just what the Government was
doing."

"And what are the last reports from headquarters? You see I have not
been kept fully in touch. I know that the Commissioner has gone north to
Prince Albert and that General Middleton has taken command of the forces
in the West and has gone North with them from Qu'Appelle, but what
troops he has I have not heard."

"I understand," replied Cameron, "that he has three regiments of
infantry from Toronto and three from Winnipeg, with the Winnipeg Field
Battery. A regiment from Quebec has arrived and one from Montreal and
there are more to follow. The plan of campaign I know nothing about."

"Ah, well," replied the Superintendent, "I know something about the
plan, I believe. There are three objective points, Prince Albert and
Battleford, both of which are now closely besieged, and Edmonton,
which is threatened with a great body of rebel Crees and Salteaux under
leadership of Little Pine and Big Bear. The Police at these points can
hardly be expected to hold out long against the overwhelming numbers
that are besieging them, and I expect that relief columns will be
immediately dispatched. Now, in regard to this district here, do you
know what is being done?"

"Well, General Strange has come in from his ranch and has offered his
services in raising a local force."

"Yes, I was glad to hear that his offer had been accepted and that he
has been appointed to lead an expeditionary force from here to Edmonton.
He is an experienced officer and I am sure will do us fine service.
I hope to see him to-morrow. Now, about the South," continued the
Superintendent, "what about Fort Macleod?"

"The Superintendent there has offered himself and his whole force for
service in the North, but General Middleton, I understand, has asked him
to remain where he is and keep guard in this part of the country."

"Good! I am glad of that. In my judgment this country holds the key. The
Crees I do not fear so much. They are more restless and uncertain, but
God help us if the Blackfeet and the Bloods rise! That is why I called
for volunteers to-night. We cannot afford to be without a strong force
here a single day."

"I gathered that you got some