HDQRS. DETACHMENT EIGHTH MISSOURI STATE MILITIA,
Neosho, Mo., November 10, 1863.

I have the honor to inform you that I arrived here on the evening of the 4th.  My advance had a skirmish with some bushwhackers in this place; my loss was 1 man killed.  We wounded 1 of the rebels; he has since died.  We routed them, and captured most of the plunder they had taken from town.

On the morning of the 6th, I made a scout down on Butler’s Creek.  I had with me 30 of my men and 40 of Captain Richey’s company of the Rangers.  We ran upon a squad of about 30 bushwhackers.  We killed 8 of them upon the ground; the number wounded is not known.  I then returned to camp, not leaving a very strong guard there.  From the reports, I think there are about 200 in squads scattered over the country.  My force is not strong enough to be effective; if I remain here, I would be glad to have more force.  There is a portion of my men on foot, and a portion sick, which leaves but few for duty.  There is forage sufficient for a battalion of cavalry here.  I am too weak to do any scouting and leave a guard that would be safe.  I would be glad to know if I have to stay here.  My rations will be out the 15th of this month; if I stay, I will have to send soon to get them here in time.  I don’t think it safe for so small a force as I have to remain too long at this place.

I am, general, with much respect, your obedient servant,

JAMES J. AKARD,
Capt., Comdg. Detachment Eighth Missouri State Militia Cav.

SOURCE: OR, Series I, Volume 22, Part I, Page 745.

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