S. Colgrove to Adjutant-General Scott, November 25, 1862

Having been informed by Adjutant-General Scott that you desired, it possible, that the band of guerrillas, under the command of the notorious Burke, should be captured, on the 24th I planned an expedition to cross the river at night and surround the house (in Shepherdstown) where the band made their headquarters. Through Messrs. Chapline and Grant I had made myself thoroughly acquainted with the place. I detailed Captain Cogswell, of the Second Mas-achusetts, and 75 men for the expedition, who were accompanied by Adjutant.General Scott and three trusty guides. The party crossed the river about 1 mile above Shepherdstown, in boats, at10p.m. By a circuitous route they gained the rear of the town, and surrounded the house and captured the whole party, except one, who was absent. Burke himself undertook to make his escape, but was fired upon and killed. The two young Burkes, Leopold (who is a Jittle less famous for his depredations than Burke him. self), O’Brien, and Hipsley, 5 in number, were taken. Five horses, saddles and bridles, and their arms, were also taken. Papers found upon the person of Burke disclosed the fact that a man by the name of Wrench had been, and still is, engaged in purchasing cloth for the Confederate Army. I senf over to-day and arrested him, and searched his premises, but found nothing. He is also held as a prisoner. I caused the town to be partially searched for arms, but nothing was found, except a few boxes of cartridges, which were brought over to this side.

Last night I also sent Lieutenant Taylor, First Maine Cavalry, across the river at Mercerville, 3 miles above here, with a small force of cavalry. They succeeded in capturing a guerrilla by the name of King, a citizen of the District of Columbia, formerly of the Twelfth Virginia Regiment, but whose time expired in July, and since that time he has been acting as a scout for the rebels. These are his own admissions.

Both expeditions were well conducted, and their object fully accomplished without accident, which speaks well for the officers conducting them.

There is general rejoicing by the loyal citizens here. Burke and his party had become a perfect terror to all law-abiding men. Leopold and Hipsley both dispute the honor of having killed Cookus, at Dam No.4, last week. I would respectfully suggest the propriety of sending the prisoners forward immediately.

Inclosed will be found the report of Captain Scott, which will give the details of the expedition.*

Taclosed will also be found the statement of A. M. Indow, aconscript, who deserted on the —— instant, and whom I sent to your headquarters on the 24th instant.

I have information that the rebel cavalry stationed at Smithfield, Bunker Hill, and Leetown were moved away on Saturday last, which I believe to be true.

Your obedient servant,