F. Maury, July 4, 1863

SIR:

I have the honor to report that I arrived at this point with my command this day in fair condition, being the twentieth day out from Fort Lapwai, and distance traveled, according to our calculation, 201 miles. We are now distant from Placerville about twenty-five miles in a northwest direction, having made a detour to the westward from the main trail by passing down the west side of Payette Valley until we reach the ferry across main Payette River, crossing at or near that point. I made this change of route from my original intention in order to avoid the mountain dividing the Payette and Boisé Rivers, which at this point is represented to me as being in a very bad condition, and the grass and water very scarce. I expect to reach Boisé River in four or five days, but at what particular point cannot now precisely state. Have as yet met with no Indians, nor any evidence of their proximity. The health of the command continues good,and the animals in as good condition generally as when we left Lapwai. For a more full report of the command I have the honor to refer you to the accompanying field return for the last ten days of June, which is without alteration this date.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,