John Moneil to John W. Davidson, April 20, 1863

Brig. Gen. J. W. DAVIDSON, Commanding Saint Louis District of Missouri:

GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose you report of Major [Hiram M.] Hiller of his expedition into Arkansas.*

All probably was accomplished by that expedition that could have been done, but it is easy to see the depressing effect that the mutinous spirit displayed at Chalk Bluff must have had on thecommand. IT have have directed inquiries, but may not be able to report evidence suficient for conviction before a court, although abundant for our moral conviction of their guilt. Examination as to military capability before a proper board would rid the service of these self-emasculated gentry, who desire to circumscribe their service of their country by State lines.

I shall move a reconnaissance in force toward Doniphan to-night, under command of Colonel La Grange, who, with a truly honorable spirit of enterprise, desires the assignment to that duty. Due care has been had to keep us advised of what is doing within the enemy’s lines.

The First Wisconsin are encamped 4 miles on the other side of the Castor, where I can hold them for any move. I have commenced works of defense, plans of which I will forward as soon as I can get copies, and have been felling timber and making abatis.

I shall keep fully in view, in every move I make, the importance of covering and protecting Ironton, by falling back on Patterson, if necessary. In doing this, I will afford what protection I can to Cape Girardeau, and at the same time seek to harass and cut off the communications of the enemy. I pray you not to be apprehensive about my keeping my little force compact and in hand. If you hear of my allowing enterprising moves by detachment, be sure I aw proceeding on well. founded information of the enemy’s weakness in that quarter, and I shall endeavor not to sacrifice the chance of a victory over an army by minor enterprises, however tempting the opportunity.

I am still keeping 40 wagons here loaded with commissary supplies. I left Major Crane at the Cape, and expected him here yesterday. I rey this delay, as we might have been paid while waiting, and no

ime lost.

We succeeded in capturing the quartermaster of Colonel Kitchen yesterday, and also received a prisoner from Captain Hulse, at Chalk Hiutt, whom papers, captured with him, denote to be a lieutenant in the rebel army.

We have captured 2 men who were engaged in taking our couriers oa me Ironton route. One cf them, in attempting to escape, was shot

All communication by telegraph has been cut off for three days. I hope to have it right soon.

Y have the honor to be,

your obedient servant,