Thomas Jefferson to J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War, November 16, 1861

Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War :

DEAR SIR : I inclose herewith a communication from Col. William C.

Young, of Texas, to you, as requested by him; and, being advised of its — . 3

contents, I respectfully request your attention to so much of it as refers to the unoceupied condition of Forts Washita, Arbuckle, and Cobb. A very small garrison at each would protect the public property, but a more imposing force will be necessary to keep the reserve and other neighboring Indians under wholesome restraint, and to keep the peace between the reserve Indians on the one side and the Comanche and Kiowa Indians on the other, which is important to the security of property and peace of the northern frontier of Texas. With much respect,

your obedient servant, –