Ww. F. Cloud to Samuel R. Curtis, March 22, 1863
Maj. Gen. SAMUEL R. CURTIS, Commanding Department of the Missouri:
An intelligent scout just arrived from Texas reports large bodies of Union men lying out in the bush, anxiously awaiting an advance of the Federal army. There are but two companies of cavalry at Arkadelphia, Ark., and about the same at Centre Point. A force of 700 was concentrating at Roseville, with the intention of attacking Fayetteville.
On the 20th of February a fight occurred at Cad’s Gap between a party of rebels and Union men, called by the rebels outlayers, in which the rebels lost 7 killed; the Union party, 9 killed and 16 taken prisoners, of whom three were hanged.
Most all of the Texas troops were being concentrated at Fort Washita He represents that a majority of the people are of the opinion that the Confederacy has played out, while others are enthusiastic over the expected return of Price.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
Colonel, Commanding.
HpQRs. 8TH AND 9TH DISTS., DEPT. OF THE Missouri,
In the Field, [March 22, 1863.]
I inclose a very singular set of documents, being part of negotiations
entered into by Colonel Harrison. It is needless to add that I have
quashed the thing. So far I have been able to keep very good relations