I think that either Harrisonville, Austin, or Dayton would be a much better place for I and L Squadrons than Johnstown. Independence will not be safe with one squadron.

JAMES H. FORD,

Colonel, Commanding.

WARRENSBURG, MO., May 18, 1864-5.40 p. m.

Colonel J. H. FORD,

Pleasant Hill, Mo.:

There should be at all times a scout from Pleasant Hill in the vicinity of Harrisonville. No necessity for any one leaving the place, as this will afford ample protection. What reason is there to believe, with the country well scouted, Independence cannot be held by the people, assisted by one company of cavalry?

By order of Brigadier-General Brown:

J. H. STEGER,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

KANSAS CITY, MO., May 18, 1864.

(Received 6.30 p. m.)

Captain J. H. STEGER,

Assistant Adjutant-General, Warensburg, Mo.:

Force scouting from Westport, 15 men, dismounted, along Blue. Force scouting form Hickman Mills, 5 scouting south and east. Colonel Ford absent.

E. L. BERTHOUD,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

PLEASANT HILL, MO., May 18, 1864.

(Received 8 a. m., 19th.)

Captain J. H. STEGER,

Assistant Adjutant-General, Warrensburg, Mo.:

Sent scout of 35 men this morning, commanded by Lieutenant Spencer. Fifteen men, dismounted troops, are out on the Grand River and Osage. No scouts from northwest and north yet. I have now 40 men for duty at this place.

T. H. DODD,

Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding.

KANSAS CITY, MO., May 18, 1864.

(Received 10.50 a. m.)

Captain JAMES H. STEGER,

Assistant Adjutant-General, Warrensburg, Mo.:

One sergeant and 10 men on the Big Blue, scouting southeast.

J. C. W. HALL,

Captain, Commanding.

42 R R-VOL XXXIV, PT III