James G. Blunt to S. S. Curtis, September 2, 1864

Maj. S. S. CURTIS, Aide-de-Camp, Department of Kansas :

Mason: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 30th ultimo relative to escort of trains en route to New Mexico, &c. In reference to the 200 wagons which you say will pass west this fall I can only say that so far as the escort is concerned it makes but little difference when they start, so that Iam advised in advance. I will advise, however, that they goin large trains instead of small ones, as in that way it will be easier to protect them. I would also suggest that all teainsters be furnished with arms and ammunition before leaving Fort Leavenworth, as I have no arms here. Teams going on the Santa I°é road should be directed to come this route and report here instead of going to Council Grove.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,