Chief Little Bear, and Drawing Sabers

2/11-2/20/62

Humbolt, Kansas, Feb. 11, 1862. We went through the Indian camp and into the fort, where thirty warriors, with their chief, Little Bear, were about to hold a council with commissioners who had reached there from Washington, D.C., the night before. The Indians were very destitute of clothing and food, having been obliged to abandon almost everything in their flight. Many of their ponies were dying of starvation. After seeing what we wished, we left for camp, thirty-five miles distant, where we arrived at sunset. We heard nothing of the deserters. The weather has been very mild for two days. Slush snow on the ground.

Wednesday and Thursday, 12 and 13th. We laid in camp.

Friday, February 14. I got permission of the captain to practice in the band.

Saturday, 15. I was on guard. Weather mild.

Sabbath, 16th. We had dress parade and inspection. I went out with the band.

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, 17,18, 19th. We laid in camp.

Thursday, 20. I was on guard. We turned in our guns and drew sabers. The weather has been quite cold.