D. Fergusson to Emil Fritz, December 12, 1861

{Capt. EMIL FRITZ:] CAPTAIN: I have just received your letter of yesterday in regard to the threatened attack on this camp. We are watchful and ready for any attack. Nevertheless, my command is much reduced. I detached, by order from district headquarters, Captain Parvin’s company of infantry to Fort Yuma this morning, and to-day, by the same authority, had to detail a non-commissioned officer and eight privates to proceed as an escort for Lieutenant Davis to Fort Yuma. My command is reduced to two captains, three lieutenants, and 118 non-commissioned officers and privates for duty. Rather a small force for our situation, having twenty secession prisoners to guard. I therefore hereby make requisition upon you for a company of cavalry for temporary duty at this post, and would suggest that you send scouts out to wateh all parties taking trails from the Monte and San Bernardino in this direction. If you feel authorized to send a company—that is, unless your instructions and other causes prevent—I would urge you to send the company at once. There is much going on in this neighborhood to excite suspicion, and too much caution, vigilance, coolness, and discretion cannot be exercised by us all. I an, sir,

very respectfully, your obediént servant,