New Undated Website
IN CAMP, Pattersom, June 26, 1864.
Major JAMES WILSON,
Commanding Third Cavalry, Missouri State Militia:
SIR: In obedience to orders of the 24th, I proceeded whit the detachment, 50 men, on scout to Doniphan. Sent a sergeant with 12 men on the Reeves' Station road; with balance took the State road, and halted at a point 15 miles from the town. At 4 a. m. the 25th, started forward without any sign of rebels till within 6 miles of town. Two men were discovered skedaddling for the brush; pursuit made, but they had too much start and escaped. Reports here told us that Johnson with a force of some 300 was in town, others that but a picket force was there.
Reconnoitered, and discovering no appearance of a force charged at a venture, and only got a glimpse of 3 making for the river. Some of the boys went in pursuit, firing a couple of shots after them as they made the brush on the opposite side of the Currant. From all that I have been able to learn of the enemy, Shelby, with (report says) 3,000 to 4,000, is stationed at or near Jacksonport, whit a detachment at Pocahontas. Provisions and forage short. Returned to camp this day. I would respectfully suggest that, for the good of the cause and a terror to the rebels, the next scout be directed to burn the town of Doniphan.
Respectfully,
H. A. RICE,
Captain, Commanding Scout.