Neosho, Mo., May 14, 1864.

SIR: For the information of the commanding general, I have the honor of reporting the operations of a scout made under my immediate command on Grand River, Cowskin, and Spavinaw. I started from this post on the 10th instant with 40 mounted men and 20 men on foot; the men on foot were under the command of Capt. John R. Kelso and Capt. Ozias Ruark. On the third day the infantry returned back to this post. I moved on in the direction of Spavinaw, which point I reached on the night of the 13th.

About 11 o�clock on the night of the 13th I discovered the camp-fires of the enemy, but thinking it might be Colonel Allen�s camp I deferred attacking them till I reconnoitered and ascertained who they were. I still intended to defer the attack till morning but after due deliberation, and having passed some houses with families living there, I knew that they would have a good chance to get information of my whereabouts. I resolved to attack them. I dismounted my men and moved slowly and cautiously to where I thought their picket might be stationed, but found none. I then gave the order to charge which was obeyed promptly; the enemy being some in their beds and some lazily lounging by their fires. When we had thoroughly penetrated their camp there was a general skedaddle, leaving 22 head of horses, 10 stand of arms, saddles, pants, hats, shoes; in fact, everything pertaining to make them comfortable. We only succeeded in killing 2 of the gang; and wounding several more. The squad, 30 in number, came in with Colonel Adair, and belonged to the Second Cherokee Indian Regiment. From my observation and what I could learn, there are about 100 or 150 men all told. I intend starting another party in a few days to ascertain more correctly their numbers and give them a thrashing.

With respect, I remain, your most obedient servant,

MILTON BURCH
Major, Comdg. Batl., Eighth Cav., Missouri State Militia.

SOURCE: OR, Series I, Volume 34, Part I, Pages 921-922.

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