W. M. Weer to Francis J. Herron, April 16, 1863

Maj. Gen. F. J. HERRON, Commanding Army of the Frontier, Rolla, Mo.:

I have had two scouting parties down each side of the river some days. As they sent back no message, I infer from this that they have heard nothing of any enemy. I start another party out this morning to West Plains. Four refugees, after being in the woods some time, arrived here from Searcy County. Last they heard of Marmaduke he was at Batesville. I accordingly concluded, as informed heretofore, that he has moved to Pocahontas. The supply of forage within obtaining distance of here is about given out. I have a forage train now out eight days; have heard from it. The country is so broken between here and the forage region that wagons move slowly. Already a number of companies (independent) are operating on our side in the country south of us. The inhabitants are moving—some north, some south. I have sent for the other brigade to return from neighborhood of Fort cured at Rolla. Under these circumstances, might I not join your headquarters with my command? I could join the other brigade and proceed through a good forage region down the Osage. No rebel army can come north by this point, as there is no forage north of the Crooked Creek country. Grass is well advanced, but it grows too sparsely on the mountains to support a large army; besides, White River can be forded anywhere. I ford it here with my loaded wagons and artillery. The mounted militia and Arkansax troops could make this a rendezvous, and, by being out continually scouting, could subsist themselves and the better watch the movements of the enemy. There are no inhabitants here. The proposition above made is, of course, upon the idea that no movement south could be made before I reached Rolla. I am requested to ask if the men to be furloughed may not visit you in person to obtain your approval. It will nearly consume the time of their furloughs to await starting until your approval reaches ‘hem here. Paymaster has not arrived. News from Little Rock is that Kirby Smith commands the department, Holmes the District of Arkansas, Price that of Missouri. Woman just in from there, seeking the exchange of an officer, her husband, with letter from Holmes on subject, directed to the commander at Springfield, where the husband is confined. She left on the 6th instant. No movement then made.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,