John M. Schofield to W. F. Geiger, February 27, 1863

Col. W. F. GEIGER, ; ine

Oommanding Third Division, Finley Creek :

COLONEL: It is reported that Marmaduke is in the vicinity of Salem, Ark., with a considerable force of cavalry, perhaps intending to make a raid upon Rolla, or upon our trains along the Rolla and Springfield road. You will please move your division eastward to some point on the headwaters of the Gasconade, Big Piney, or Big North Fork of White River, where forage can be obtained, and from which you can watch the enemy’s movements. Send scouts and spies to Marmaduke’s camp frequently, and endeavor to keep yourself thoroughly informed of his movements. You will act, according to circumstances, to meet any movement he may make, keeping me advised of everything. You may delay your movement until the 1st of March, with a view to the mustering of your command to-morrow, and to allow the commissary train, now on the way, to reach you, unless you have information which indicates the necessity of immediate movement. The train now on the way to join you will not be returned to this post, but will remain with your division until further orders. Please have the animals as well cared for as possible.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,