J. R, West to B. O. Cutler, May 3, 1862

Now ll: f Fort Vancouver, Wash. Ter., May 3, 1862. I. Companies A and E (Smith’s and Gibbs’), Second Infantry California Volunteers, will be held in readiness at a moment’s notice to embark for Fort Humboldt on the steamer by which the companies under the command of Colonel Steinberger will arrive at this post. * * * * * * *

A. CADY, Lieutenant-Colonel Seventh Infantry, Commanding District.

HDQRS. ADVANCE GUARD, California VOLUNTEERS, Pima Villages, May 4, 1862. Lient B. O CUTLER,

LIEUTENANT: I am as yet unable to report upon the supplies for 1roops available at this post with any degree of confidence. Mr. Ammi White, who was taken prisoner by the rebels, was the only person here conversant with the Indian resources. I have as yet only succeeded in eking out daily a supply of forage for the command. I can neither get any stock of forage in advance, nor have the indians yet produced their flourin any but trifling quantities. I am, however, trading under every disadvantage. It is difficult to make this people understand the magnitude of our demands, and further, 1 have nothing but promises to offer them in payment When the manta arrives I shall then understand whether they hold back their wheat and flour from fear of uonpayment, or because they have but limited quantities on hand. The first of the new crop of wheat should begin to come in within a fortnight. Of hay I can get but a mere daily ration. lam negotiating, with what prospect of success it is impossible to tell, for a standing field of wheat, with the intention of feeding it and keeping the grain that comes in for future uses.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,