VOLUNTEER TROOPS AT EARNED 



ing that I had but recently been a private soldier, 

 treated me as an equal. Even the major com- 

 manding often consulted me on technical affairs, 

 and offered to use his influence to procure me a 

 commission in the regiment if I would join his 

 command, which kind offer I declined with thanks. 

 I had made up my mind not to bind myself to 

 Uncle Sam again, though — after this wolf hunting 

 campaign — I planned to enter the service as a 

 scout or wagon-master or in some civilian capac- 

 ity that would give me more freedom than as a 

 soldier or officer. 



205 



