B. F. Harrover to Joseph R. West, April 26, 1863

GENERAL:

I have the honor to give you the following account of an affair with the Apache Indians: About 8 o’clock yesterday morning the Indians were reported in large numbers approaching the fort from the north. I immediately started out with twenty men of my own company and five cavalry, accompanied by Asst. Surg. Edward L. Watson, First Infantry California Volunteers, and Lieut. John D. Slocum, Fifth Infantry California Volunteers, Lieutenant Qualey being left in command of the post. On reaching the spring north of the post the Indians were discovered within range, and I ordered my men to fire. The Indians commenced to retreat, but returned our fire. A running fight was kept up for about three hours, during which time I had driven them about four miles. I believe that they lost several in killed and wounded, as I saw several fall. I had one of my company shot through the shoulder, severe, but not dangerous, and one of the cavalry horses was wounded in the breast. The Indians had many guns of large caliber, also several rifle muskets.

respectfully, your obedient servant,