without water. As Sappers however did not turn up, did not move. Ashe & 4 Scouts sent out W along the line where they were to have worked. East & Scout go E. on trail to Milk R. in case they might have gone on there. Crompton & Scout go back on the trail & lunching place of yesterday. All returned without having found the least trace or clue to the missing men. East saw altogether 13 indians near Milk R. in two bands. Crompton caught sight of one. Fear that the men may have met with foul play from some prowling band.

A large fire of chips going again tonight to lead them in if wandering about.
Occupied reading &c all day about camp.

Immense numbers of buffalo scattered over the plains in all directions, generally in small parties of four to twelve or twenty. In the afternoon three bulls came to within 100 yds of the camp, but turned & fled quickly away when some of men went out towards them. Other parties came very close during the afternoon. Two bulls in particular slowly advanced, stopping a long time & carefully eyeing us between every few steps. Then several of us opened fire. Lodged one bullet or more but without any apparent effect except excelerating the retreat. The buffalo really a very quaint looking animal. The head densely matted with black hair among which the short horns stand up. A long beard also covered with a good coat & looking immensely thick & strong. The hinder quarters & hind legs dwindling rapidly away. When first got into