The events described in this chapter terminated my service in the field
on what is known as the southern and middle plains, embracing all
that portion of the plains south of the Platte river. From and after
the Washita campaign the frontiers of Kansas have enjoyed comparative
peace and immunity from Indian depredations. No general Indian war has
prevailed in that part of the country, nor is it probable that anything
more serious in this way than occasional acts of horse-stealing will
occur hereafter. Many of my friends have expressed surprise that I have
not included in “Life on the Plains” some of the hunting scenes and
adventures which have formed a part of my experience; but I feared the
introduction of this new feature, although probably the pleasantest and
in many respects most interesting of my recollections of border life,
might prolong the series of articles far beyond the length originally
assigned to them. I hope, however, at an early day to relate some of my
experiences with the large game so abundant on the plains, and in this
way fill up a blank in these articles which my friends who are lovers
of sport have not failed to observe.
As I pen these lines, I am in the midst of scenes of bustle and busy
preparation attendant upon the organization and equipment of a large
party for an important exploring expedition, on which I shall start
before these pages reach the publishers’ hands. During my absence I
expect to visit a region of country as yet unseen by human eyes, except
those of the Indian--a country described by the latter as abounding in
game of all varieties, rich in scientific interest, and of surpassing
beauty in natural scenery. Bidding adieu to civilization for the next
few months, I also now take leave of my readers, who I trust, in
accompanying me through my retrospect, have been enabled to gain a true
insight into a cavalryman’s “Life on the Plains.”