noon
Terse and to the point were the questions and answers exchanged between the military arm of the government and the quarantine authorities of Montana . When the question arose of indemnity to citizens , in case of death to native cattle , a humane chord was touched in the young lieutenant in command , resulting in his asking several questions , to which the `` major-domo '' protested . Once satisfied of the justice of quarantine , the officer , in defense of his action , said : `` Gentlemen , I am under instructions to give these herds , intended for use at Fort Buford , a three days ' escort beyond this quarantine line . I am very much obliged to you all for making so clear the necessity of isolating herds of Texas cattle , and that little or no hardship may attend my orders , you may have until noon to-morrow to drift all native stock west of the Powder River . When these herds encamp for the night , they will receive instructions not to move forward before twelve to-morrow . I find the situation quite different from reports ; nevertheless orders are orders . '' The quarantine guards returned to their camp .