May 1, 1864, Neosho, Mo.,
Major Milton Burch to Brigadier General John B. Sanborn

NEOSHO, Mo., May 1, 1864.

 Brig. Gen. JOHN B. SANBORN,
Commanding Southwest District of Missouri:

GENERAL: I have the honor to inform you that I have information that there are some 800 to 1,200 rebels on Grand River, near Gilstrop's Ferry. I am inclined to believe the report. The report came from a woman, who says she saw 60 of the rebels. She saw Stand Watie and talked with him, so she says. She says Stand Watie has 400 men. Colonel Pickens has 300, and the balance belong to Cooper. She also says they were looking for Quantrill to join them with 600 men. She says that they intend to attack the train that is now on its way from Fort Scott. She says that they calculate to take my command in out of the wet, but they will have a good time in doing it. I have a small fort very near completed. I can whip a thousand if attacked. I will ascertain the truth of the report. I have sent Captain Ruark, with 20 men, with instructions to go to Gilstrop's Ferry, or near enough to ascertain the truth of the report. When he returns I will report to you immediately.

General, I am, with much respect, your most obedient servant,

 MILTON BURCH,

Major, Comdg. Detachment Eighth Cavalry, M. S. M.

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