Charles King was a 19th century United States soldier and a distinguished writer. He graduated from West Point in 1866 and served in the Army during the Indian Wars under George Crook. During Philippine-American War, King was placed in command of the 1st Brigade in Henry W. Lawton's division. He led his brigade during the Battle of Manila and sailed for Santa Cruz with Lawton's division. Foes in Ambush tells the story of the half-breed Mexicans and disreputable Americans who hang around the southwest frontier. They plot to ambush an army paymaster. There are great fight scenes, encounters with Indians and a bit of romance all infused with the atmosphere of the old west. .