Joseph R. West to Benjamin Co. Cutler, May 13, 1862

Lieut. BENJAMIN CO. CUTLER, I wish to state officially my reasons for advancing upon Tucson in accordance with permission granted by the colonel commanding the district in official and private letters. It is my opinion that Tucson is the most available point for introducing supplies from Sonora; that none such can be looked for to be taken there until an authorized agent of the United States shall present himself with a sufficient force to protect them; that the infantry of my command will consume no more of our own supplies there than here, and that pasturage for cavalry can be found in that vicinity; that allinformation about the enemy discloses no risk to the command with which I move, nor to the sub-depot at this post under the protection of the troops that will be left here.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,