John A. Platter to Sinclair, August 15, 1863
August 15, 1863. [Col. E. M. McCook :]
CoLoNEL : I write you for instructions concerning some Confederate soldiers that have sent me word that they wish to come in and take the oath. I can’t find them, and wish to know if I shall answer them in the affirmative or not. There are also 3 sick Confederate soldiers near here, that my scouts have found, that are too sick to move. These I have paroled, and will require them to report as soon as they are able.
I sent a scout to Vienna, 10 miles on the Deposit road. Captured ” Confederate soldiers, when they moved on toward Deposit, and 2 miles from Vienna they drove in the rebel pickets after an exchange of afew shots. They returned, it being late and the officer not finks ing his force sufficient to go farther.
I am satisfied there is no force on this side, and think these pickets were to cover a thieving party. I will send a battalion in that [direction] to-morrow.
You will confer a favor by sending a late paper.
your obedient servant,
Colonel Fourth Indiana Cavalry.
P. S.—Shall I retain the prisoners or send them through to you?
McMINNVILLE, August 15, 1863—8.45 p. m.
Assistant Adjutant-General :
General Van Cleve has received orders to be ready to move tomorrow morning, including cavalry. I have only one day's forage
on hand. Can't Galbraith's men come here instead of leaving a