Assuming it was a patrol from Fort Laramie on routine surveillance, Blade’s first inclination was to let it pass without calling attention to himself. But when he recognized Major Vance at the head of the column, he realized that something serious must have transpired to bring Vance out of the fort. He also noted that Lieutenant Goodman rode with the men and that pack horses carried supplies enough for several days. Some sixth sense warned him that he’d live to regret it if he didn’t intercept the patrol. Digging his heels into Warrior’s sides, he plunged down the incline, meeting the riders as they came around the bend. Surprise, followed closely by relief, crossed Vance’s features when he recognized Blade. He halted the column, waiting for Blade to approach. “Blade, you couldn’t have shown up at a better time!” Vance exclaimed jubilantly. Vance’s words did little to dispel Blade’s premonition of disaster. “What is it, Major? I haven’t heard of any attacks in the area.
