James G. Blunt to Thos. Moonlight, March 2, 1863

Information having been received at these headquarters of such a character as to leave little doubt that there is an organization in this State for the ostensible object of protecting themselves and loyal persons against the enemies of the Government, but whose real design is to engage in a system of illegitimate and indiscriminate plunder, rendering property, and even life, insecure, and exempting no class of persons from the operation of their piracy, all such persons are therefore notified that ample opportunities are allowed to manifest their zeal for their country and punish her enemies in a legitimate manner and under proper authority, and that it is the determination of the general commanding that all lawlessness shall be suppressed. Peaceable and loyal citizens must and shall be protected in their property and lives, and the offenders, whoever they may be, punished according tolaw. To this end all commanding officers within this district are hereby directedto be vigilant and prompt in detecting such offenders, and aiding the civil officers in causing the arrest of all persons engaged in a violation of the civil law. When the civil authorities have no place of safety to hold such offenders in custody, they will. be received by the commanding officers of Forts Scott and Leavenworth, to be held until demanded for trial.

By order of Brig. Gen. James G. Blunt: