Richd. C. Drum to Francis J. Lippitt, January 16, 1862

Col. FRANCIS J. LIPPI’T, Second Infantry California Volunteers,

SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 12th instant, reporting the arrival of your companies and suggesting plans of operations, and to say in reply, by direction of the general commanding the department, that the proposed plans are generally approved. As it will be impossible to make any effective movement against the Indians until after the waters subside, the general desires you in the meantime to acquaint yourself with the condition of affairs in the district, of which you are expected to keep these headquarters constantly advised. The court requested has been ordered. In consequence of the absence of Captain Ketcham, the men of his company against whom charges have been submitted will not be tried before the court, but reserved for another, which will be ordered on his return to his post.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,