E.D. Townsend to Samuel R. Curtis, April 22, 1863

One of my scouting parties to Talbot’s Ferry reports that Price is moving up the Arkansas River. I can hardly credit this intelligence. I have a number of officers promoted from ranks, and men who need service of a mustering officer. Please inform me if you will send one to Houston, or shall Isend them to Rolla. Paymasters refuse to pay until they are mustered in. Will you also give me the necessary authority to take the paymaster to Houston? Infantry left Forsyth this 6 a. m. Cavalry went south yesterday. All my transportation left here this morning for Houston.

W. M. WEER, Colonel, Commanding.

ROLLA, Mo., April 22, 1863.

Your telegram received. Move your command to Houston withaslittle delay as possible, notifying me of the time you start from Springfield, and of your arrival at Houston. You can communicate with me at Salem from Houston. Keep a strict lookout to the east and south, for Marmaduke’s cavalry will be in front of you. I will regulate the paymaster. Get what quartermaster’s supplies your command needs from Springfield. Reduce baggage, and do not draw any tents. Shelter tents will be sent here and issued to thisarmy. Do not start the battery and transportation until the infantry comes up. It would not be safe.

K. F. J. HERRON, Major-General, Oommanding.

SPECIAL ORDERS, } Wak DEPARTMENT, ADJT. GEN.’S OFFICE, No. 183. ashington, April 22, 1863. * * * * * * * VII. Brig, Gen. Clinton B. Fisk, U. 8. Volunteers, is hereby relieved from duty in the Department of the Tennessee, and will report in person,

Cuar XXXIV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.—UNION.

without delay, to Major-General Uurtis, commanding Department of the Missouri, for duty. * * * * * * a

By order of the Secretary of War: