PATTERSON, MO., March 18, 1865.

Colonel BEVERIDGE,

Pilot Knob:

SIR: Returned from scout last evening, having been as far south as Doniphan. No force at that place nor has there been. Current River prevented my going beyond. Johnson is reported to have ordered his troops to assemble at some point twenty miles south of Doniphan. Believe there is no truth in the report. Certain he would fail if the attempt was made. Unable to bring away the families from the Black River on account of high water.

Respectfully,

JAMES SMITH,

Captain, Commanding Post.

SPECIAL ORDERS,
HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF ROLLA, Numbers 55.
Rolla, Mo., March 18, 1865.

1. The commanding officer Thirteenth Missouri Cavalry Volunteers will detach one company of his command to move, with camp and garrison equipage, to-morrow, the 19th instant, to Salem, Dent County, Mo., and relieve the detachment of Fifth Cavalry Missouri State Militia now stationed at that place. On being relieved by detachment of the Thirteenth Missouri Cavalry Volunteers the commanding officer of detachment Fifth Cavalry Missouri State Militia now stationed at Salem will move with his command, camp and garrison equipage, to Rolla, Mo., and report for orders to his regimental commander.

By order of Colonel John Morrill, commanding:

J. H. STEGER,
Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,

Fort Leavenworth, March 18, 1865.

Major-General BLUNT,

Paola:

I shall be here several days and desire to see You.

G. M. DODGE,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSOURI,
Fort Leavenworth, March 18, 1865.

Colonel FORD,

Fort Riley:

What about Indians west of You? Has regiment of infantry arrived? Will send You a pack train in few days, also horses. Make arrangements to put a post at or near old Fort Atkinson as soon as practicable. How many horses will it take to mount You? Are all the requisitions in? Send in an officer to attend to it. Answer.

G. M. DODGE,

Major-General.