14. The Indian bands split up after the Camp Weld Council
The Cheyenne and Arapaho bands split into different groups following the failed negotiations for peace, with Black Kettle and about 250 of his followers moving to Fort Lyon in the autumn. Most of the Dog Soldiers and the Arapaho warriors refused to comply with the demands of the Colorado government. The natives under Black Kettle were moved to an encampment on Big Sandy Creek, about 40 miles from Fort Lyon. Meanwhile, attacks by Dog Soldiers and other roving bands of Arapaho and Cheyenne continued throughout the region. In November, Colonel Chivington moved just over 400 men of the 3rd Colorado Cavalry from Denver to Fort Lyon.
When he arrived at Fort Lyon Chivington, the senior officer present, assumed command of the garrison, including Soule, who was in command of Company D of the 1st Colorado Cavalry. Chivington announced his plans to attack Black Kettle and his followers in their camp with the combined command, and Soule, as well as Lieutenant Joseph Cramer of K Company protested. Chivington threatened to place both men under arrest for disobedience to orders. “Damn any man who sympathizes with Indians”, Chivington reportedly said. “Kill and scalp all, big and little; nits make lice”. In late November Chivington moved against the Cheyenne camp.