E. D. R. S. Canby to I. LvNDE, June 23, 1861

Santa Fé, N. Mex., June 23, 1861. Maj. I. LvNDE, Seventh Infantr y, Comdg. Southern District, Department of New Mexico, Fort Fillmore, Nu Mex: 3 SIR: The bearer of these communications, Judge John S. Watts, of this city, is thoroughly acquainted with the inhabitants of Mesilla,

Doña Ana County, and will be able to render you valuable assistance in organizing volunteer companies, if you should find it necessary to call for any, or in any event in which you may require his aid. His intimate knowledge of the people in that part of the country will enable him to indicate to you those upon whose fidelity you can rely, and this, at the present juncture, will be a matter of the utmost importance. I have requested him to take charge of these communications, for the reason that I do not feel assured that they would reach you if sent through the post-oflice, and for the same reason a triplicate of the inStructions of the 16th inst.is also sent. My own knowledge of Judge

Watts and his reputation here warrant me in saying that you can rely upon him for any service in which you may require the assistance of an aetive, zealous, and faithful man.

Very respectfully, major, your obedient servant,