- : ED. R. S. Canby to Nineteenth Tnfantry, Commanding Department, January 3, 1862

Fort Craig, N. Mex., January 3, 1862.

J. L. DONALDSON, : Maj. and Q. M., Comdg. Mil. Dis. Santa Fé, N. Mex.: MAJOR: The Texan force that entered Alamosa yesterday morning was about 500 men, with two pieces of artillery. The object appears to

have been the surprise of the outposts at that point. Information of

the movement had been received from the Mesilla, and the immediate advance of the Texans was discovered by the advance pickets in season to permit the companies to retire without molestation and without loss

of any kind. Failing in their object, the Texans retired rapidly by the — Char, XL] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.—UNION. __

same road. As soon as satisfied that this movement is not a feint, T shall move (probably this evening or to-morrow) with four companies of infantry, four of cavalry (regulars), and five of volunteers, for the purpose of opposing the reported movement up the Pecos, governing myself in the direction to be taken by information received on the road from the parties now in that direction. I have conclusive information that this movement was intended when _ the Texan troops left San Antonio, and that a co-operating movement up the Canadian was projected, but there is now reason to believe that the Texans failed to raise so large a force as was expeeted, and that the expedition may be suspended for a time. In this case I will establish a reserve camp at or near Las Lunas or Peralta, with sufficient force to act upon either of the lines by which an invasion may be attempted. .

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

– : ED. R. S. CANBY,

Colonel Nineteenth Tnfantry, Commanding Department.