had a good deal of trouble from guerrillas. The request for arms and ammunition and clothing in Saint Louis have not been forwarded, and we have not power to do all we want. I have 1,000 men and I can't arm [them]. I shall start what forces I can raise after the rebels Saturday morning and run them as far as we can. Have written to Colonels Anderson and Forbes to co-operate. I am using all veteran officers I can. We are better off than a few days ago. Harris was captured last week, and the rebels hold high carnival in Monroe Country.

J. T. K. HAYWARD,

Colonel, Commanding.

FIELD OF BATTLE, Near Independence, Mo., October 21, 1864.

Major General H. W. HALLECK,

Chief of Staff:

I have been fighting Price three hours on the Little Blue with my cavalry. We have a strong position fifteen miles in the rear, where I intend to make a stand. Heavy cannonading still going on on both sides. Our men are doing finely.

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

(Same to General Rosecrans.)

INDEPENDENCE, MO., October 21, 1864-2.30 p. m.

Major-General HALLECK,

Chief of Staff:

We have fought Price's army since 10 this morning, near Little Blue, with only my regular volunteers. I am fighting and falling back to avoid flank movements, designing to make another strong stand at Big Blue, where the militia, with artillery, are located in strong position.

S. R. CURTIS,

Major-General.

(Same to General Rosecrans.)

INDEPENDENCE, October 21, 1864. (Received 10.45 a. m.)

Major-General ROSECRANS:

We are fighting the enemy seven miles from this place.

C. S. CHARLOT,

Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.

CAMP NEAR COOK'S STORE, October 21, 1864-1 p. m.

Major General S. R. CURTIS,

Independence:

Our cavalry reached Lexington at 10 o'clock this morning. The infantry will reach this evening and push forward. Rear division left Sedalia yesterday morning. Orders will be sent to push the enemy to the utmost.

W. S. ROSECRANS,

Major-General.