May it please your Excellency:
I was honored with yours on the 17th Inst. and as to the six wagons I despatched on the 12th Inst. under the command of Capt. Tarrant, Lieuts. Sumner, and Jones with thirty nine privates including wagoners, but Sir I am informed that nine of the above guard has deserted since. I have this day sent off two wagons with the leather under the command of Capt. Gambell and sixteen privates.
On the ninth Instant I sent expresses to all the officers that I knew of in this State, except those whom I expected Col. Polk to send down as I was told that they were on their march at that time, but as neither officer or soldier has appeared yet from that District, I shall wait a few days longer for their arrival, and if they fail coming, send off what is here. I expect we shall have many resignations as there has been three already to wit, Capt. Walker, and Lieut. Grandy of the 7th also Lieut Sexton of the 6th Regr. Should be glad of your advice how to proceed with those that does not appear. I have the honor to be Sir, your Mo. Ob. huml. servt.