76 C 2 ] 
Head Qttaeters, Western. Department, 
Louisville, Ken. Juhj 15th, 1823^ 
Sir: Since addressing you yesterday, on the subject of Governor 
Claj'k*s letter relative to the attack of the Ricara Indians on Gen. 
Ashley's party, I have, on reflection, ordered Capt. Fowie to march 
across the country to Council Bluffs, with a hundred men of the 
detachment of recruits of the 6th regiment. I think the state of 
affairs on the upper Missouri calls for the measure — not that I think 
there is much to be apprehended as to the failure of Col. Leaven- 
worth in the object of his marcli, or of hostile movements on the 
part of other tribes — yet, an early addition of an hundred men to the 
remaining garrison at Council Bluffs will give complete security to 
the post, and the promptness with which they will be marched across 
the country will impress the Indians in that quarter with a just idea 
of our capacity to chastise every outrage they may commit. 
I have directed that the detachment be provided with pack-horse 
transportation, as that mode will greatly facilitate their msvement, 
and be much less expensive than employing wagons. The horses 
may be purchased for 30 to 50 dollars each, and performing the trip 
be on hand as public property. 
Enclosed is a copy of my order to Capt, Fowle, which will give 
you a full knowledge of the measures I have taken. The order will 
reach Capt. Fowle in five or six days. 
It was sent by an oflicer of the 5th regiment, who went in a steam- 
boat that sailed to day for St. Louis, at about which time the de- 
tachment will also reach there. 
I shall pay due attention to every thing relating to affairs on the 
Missouri, and take prompt steps to meet exigencies. For the pre- 
sent, I deem it unnecessary to do more than I have ordered. 
With great respect. Sir, I have the honor to be. 
Your most obedient servant, 
H. ATKINSON, 
Brig. Gen. U. S. Army, coin. W. Department. 
Maj. Gen. Brown, 
Commander in Chief, Washington City. 
A true copy. 
Charles J. Notjrse, Mjutant General, Jiding. 
Head Quarters, Western Department, 
Louisville, July iSth, 1823. 
Sir: In consequence of Col. Leavenwbrth having moved, with 
the principal part of the 6th regiment, against the Ricara Indians, 
