W. M. E. Moberly to Charles B. Fisk, September 8, 1864

General C. B. FIsK,

GENERAL: The dispositions of my force in accordance with your order has so weakened this post as to render its capture easy, and to meet the exigency I have issued the inclosed order, which I hope will meet your approbation. Captain Cunningham went on duty about noon, and now has his company nearly filled up to the minimum, which renders this post and the Government property here quite safe. I have information that 100 bushwhackers crossed the Missouri River into Carroll County and that squads of them have got in behind the expedition under Major King. Reliable information in my possession is to the effect that Jim Anderson with a large band crossed the Missouri River below here last night, and it may be him that recrossed into Carroll. The expedition of footmen directed in your order started out this morning and have reached their destination ere this. The river cannot be securely guarded, as it is very low and can be crossed at a great many places. The bushmen have been very active in the last few days and have moved about with great rapidity, generally in small squads. Necessary arrangements have been made to protect the other posts in the county. The absence of Captain Stanley’s company weakens my force very much, and should he return it will enable me to cooperate with operations below or re-enforce the footmen, as circumstances may require. As at present situated I can do but little more than guard my posts. I furnished Major King fifty men, and but for the absence of his company could easily have furnished the total number required.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,