Unknown to C. W. Marsh, January 13, 1863

Col. C. W. MARSH, COLONEL: You are informed by telegraph, doubtless, that I arrived at this post with my command at 8 a. m. to-day. We marched hard, and, I think, made good time. My command does not exceed 400 men, but these are in splendid condition. The poorly mounted and dilapidated were left behind with train. The fight here on the 8th was rather a brilliant and successfal affair on our side. The men behaved nobly. General Brown’s gallantry and management are much eulogized, and I am of opinion it is quite deserved. I saw him this evening. His wound is painfully severe, and full of danger. He is quite cheerful, but greatly concerned about the safety of the post, and the opinion that may be entertained of the defense made. My opinion, deferentially spoken, is that no second attempt on this post will be made by Marmaduke on this raid, and that he will endeavor, with precipitate haste, to extricate himself from the entanglements of your rear. Look out for him to the east. Our desire and purpose is to pursue him. Efforts will be made to form junction with General Warren. His additional force and co-operation will, in our judgment, enable us to loosen them up at Hartville, and compel them to retire into Arkansas at a point where they will necessarily run on to one of the points covered by your disposition of the forces south. The moral effect of this inroad into Missouri will be against us, unless the scoundrels are intercepted and badly crippled. Should he consume and destroy the supplies on the line of his retreat, our pursuit will be unfortunately tardy, and, in my judgment, the greatest good is to be expected from the efforts of the force east of Fayetteville. Touching these things, however, you will oe eee ene by wiser heads. ry respectfull our obedient servant, Rosner a JNU. F. PHILIPS, Oolonel Seventh Missouri State Militia Cavalry.

Hp@Rs. SOUTHWESTERN DISTRICT OF Missouri,