R. F. Maury to Benjamin Alvord, August 8, 1863

Camp No. 33, Camas Prairie, Idaho Ter., August 8, 1863.

GENERAL: The scouting parties sent out on my arrival in this valley have returned. The one (Captain Currey’s) going to Salmon Falls found a few families at that point, mostly without arms or property of any kind and professing great friendship. A ferry has been established there. The owners live there unmolested, and represent the Indians in the vicinity as perfectly harmless. They are poor and depend upon fish for a living. If nothing occurs to prevent, I will cross the river at the falls on my return and give the streams entering on the south of Snake River a thorough search; perhaps, if time and circumstances permit, visit the headwaters of Owyhee and Malheur, meeting my supplies for the return to Walla Walia at Malheur River. The Indians at the falls, two of whom Captain Currey brought in with him, say that most all the Indians—all who were able—have gone east to the buffalo grounds. Very little dependence can be placed upon theic representations. They say they know nothing of any treaty with General Connor. It is to be regretted very much, taking into consideration the present necessities, as well as future prospects, of the Government and these Indians, that the military post had not been established in this valley. I look upon it as a misfortune. With a permanent military establishment in this vicinity, no difficulty would be experienced in collecting and controlling them. I will leave the infantry and sufficient cavalry for scouting purposes in this valley under command of Major Rinearson. I expect to return by the 10th of September, and will be governed by circumstances in future movements, of which I will keep you advised. It is doubtful whether we find any party of hostile Indians. I am inclined to the opinion the immigration to Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, with exception of that to Beaver Head, will be very small. It is time that a large portion of it had reached this point, yet very few, not over 100 wagons, have made their appearance. Notwithstanding that this season was much earlier than last, the immigration consists mostly of families in good health and well supplied. This valley is large enough for a populous county, covered with nutritious grass and well watered, and unquestionably with the advance of mineral discoveries will be thickly settled. Timber of good quality, though not very abundant, at convenient distance on the mountains. The health of the command is excellent, and the animals of the expedition first rate. With the latter we have had no trouble and met with no losses.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,