RUGER, Commanding District to (Mail Bismarck.), March 23, 1883

Adjutant-General, Department Dakota, Fort Snelling, Minn.:

Following received:

“Fort Benton, March 22, 1883.

“Large war party Crees fighting herders and Piegans at Kipp’s, on Marias 19th. Stole forty horses, killed nine work cattle, two Piegans, and several horses. Two Crees killed: moving towards Walsh. Can’t you have them intercepted?

“J. G. BAKER & CO.,

“T. C. POWER & BROS., and others.”

Orders were sent on receipt of the above dispatch to Fort Assinnihoine for the cavalry to try to intercept the Crees. The commanding officer at Assinniboine was also directed to communicate as to the matter with the commanding officer at Fort Walsh.