308 SHERIDAN'S TROOPERS ON THE BORDERS. sense of pleasure inspired by the agreeable and appropriate moment of the General's promotion, with feelings of joy at the refreshing anticipations of a speedy return to civilization, the closing scene of the campaign, and the last stage of our journey, were equally gratifying. At half-past three o'clock in the afternoon, on the sixth of March, unannounced, we drew up on the drive, in front of the quarters, of the commandant at Fort Hays. The next day, Sunday, on the iron highway of Kansas, we sped from the land of the Indian and the buffalo-from the scene of savage war-to the security, peace, and comforts of civilization. Evans and his gallant men had returned from their trying march on the Main Canadian, and the Red, to the comparative comforts of Bascom. Carr and his troopers, from their fearful gallop on the North Canadian, once more enjoyed the hospitable shelter of Lyon. Custer, with the battle-scarred veterans of the seventh, and Crawford, with his rugged and daring volunteers, had given the savages on the head waters of the Red the final blow of the campaign. The seventh was in quarters near Fort Hays. The volunteers, after their rough experience had gone to their homes. Such was the end of the campaign before the close of the spring of 1869. The purposes of war were fully realized. The savages were severely punished. The belief in their security in the winter season was shattered beyond a question, even in their stubborn minds. All the tribes south of the Platte were forced upon their reservations. Thus, by the powerful and efficient aid of Sheridan's Troopers, the wild tribes were made accessible to the generous heart of humanity, and the tempering influences of industry, education, and christianity. THE END. |