Unit ID: 225941
Page 1.
Camp Quaw Paw near Baxter
Springs on Spring River Aug. 3rd 1862.
Charlie Hutson
Dear Parents:
A mail came into our camp last night from Ft. Scott but none was for me. The latest news we have is a conservative of the 27th which mentions Col. Wees Arrived in Leavenworth but says nothing about the arrest. I cannot understand why Col. Clalomom is not ordered to headquarters he is in command here, the 2 brigades are about 3 miles apart. Col. cloud in command of the first and Lieut. Col. Jewell in command of the 2nd. At present, Col. Cloud is down below looking after the Indians he as the 2nd Kansas and one section of Robb's battery with him. Col. Salomon as a brigade Genl. but he has not received any official information of it yet. Dr. Scott and I mess and camp together we camped near the 2nd brigade we are the only two left of Col. Whess staff. Dr. Scott is senior medical officer of the expedition. Headquarters of the expedition are with the 1st brigade. Last Wednesday Lieut. Rosenthall l left for Leavenworth & Atchison. I let him have a pony to ride up (not my best one) If the pony lasts him through he will send them to who you, Capt. Boyd is still here but not in command of the company
Page 2.
he is waiting to hear weather his resignation has been accepted he talks of starting to Leavenworth in a day or two he has been away from his company for a month without any leave. We have that Gen. Lam will [XX] again. I hope it is true if he comes [XX] we would most likely get rid of Solomon we have no use for such men as Solomon in this country not unless he would go back to Wisconsin a go to making Lager Beer. I am still ordinance officer although I have tried to get back to my company he will not relieve me yet. If we do not get word from Ft. Leavenworth today or tomorrow I shall then give up all hope of seeing Leavenworth soon, we are some seventy miles from Ft. Scott. Not much news to write this time I get a chance to mail a letter. Love to all
From your son
Cyrus Leland Jr
Page 3.
Who is to be the Republican candidate for Gov. Crawford is an old Democrat & cannot very well run on a Republican ticket. Maj "Wm" A. Phillips of the 1st Indian Regiment would stand a good show if the officers & men of the Kansas Regts could have a say as in the matter he is now Col. of the 3rd Indian Regiment he is a good man a very smart man a man of great energy & what is most important and honest man.
Cyrus Leland Jr.
Page 4.
[Illegible]
Page 5.
Illegible]
Page 6.
Leavenworth City-Kansas
Apr. 21st 1863
Before breakfast
Dear Mother,
I arrived here this morning all safe. The stage from Ft. Scott has a full load for today so I will not leave here until tomorrow morning. I saw Mr. Deary and the case last night he told us that he had made out the deed for the land and had given it to Elias before he left Hiawatha. I am not help to think how I put in him while at home I enjoyed myself very well I hope Howard is much better. Direct this at Ft. Scott. Love to all
Affectionately
your son Cyrus Leland Jr.
Page 7.
Cyrus letter
April 20, 1863
Page 8.
Leavenworth City Kans.
April 22, 1863.
Dear Mother,
You see that I am here yet shall probably start for Ft. Scott in the morning's stage. I expect to find out weather I get that appointment as not before I leave here. Genl Ewing is here Capt. price is going to see him about it today. I sent a few lines to you by Mr. Camp. I wrote to you in that, that I have seen Mr. Deary and he told me that the deed was made out before he left Hiawatha. I send you my picture with price it is not a very good one I went to this theater last night with Tennent & Camp. I left a pair of pants up home but no matter. Love to all
Affectionately your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
Pvt C. Leland
Troy Kansas
Ap. 23rd
I start for the regiment this morning. Genl. Ewing will not promise anyone but says he will consider me favorably.
Page 9.
Cyrus letter
April 22, 1863.
Page 10.
Camp Jewell
Near Ft. Scott, Kans
Apr 25th 1863..
Dear Mother,
I reached Ft. Scott last night and came out to camp to day. The boys will arrive here sometime tomorrow. The brigade has orders to march to Houston, Texas Co M we start Monday morning unless we receive other orders we will most likely go near Springfield if we go within a days ride I shall go and see father if possible. Genl Ewing is at Leavenworth a will be here tomorrow or next day. I should not wonder if we were ordered to stay here but then I had rather be with a large army. I may get that appointment him. I will know something about as soon as Genl Ewing arrives if he does not have command of Kansas troops I don't think that I will get it.
If he does I stand a good show for it. I enjoyed my visit to home exceedingly well I don't think that I stand at home enough I did most too much running about. I hope Howard is well before this time. Love to all
Affectionately your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
P.S.Apr 26th no further orders C.L. Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland,
Troy Kansas
Page 11.
Cyrus letter
April 25, 1863
Page 12.
Camp near Clintonville Mo.
Apr. 29th 1863.
Dear Mother,
We are now near thirty miles from Ft. Scott, Col. Burris's commander the brigade. General Ewing has not arrived yet. They look for him tomorrow. We make very short marches we rather expect orders from Genl. Blunt for us to return to Kansas if we do not get there tomorrow. I do not believe that we will get there at all. I have not received any letters from home since I came back, we are just across the 1st County in Missouri we are going nearly East from Ft. Scott. I sent you from Leavenworth a likeness of Price & myself takan together did you get it. How does the pony get along have Col. Tennent moved yet [XX] me what news you got from father I write tol him pretty often when we get a little nearer Springfield I will hear from him often
Love to all
affectionately your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy Kansas
We do not March tomorrow we lay by to muster. Excuse the large envelopes.
Page 13.
Cyrus letter
April 29, 1863.
Page 14.
Camp near Lebano Mo.
May 7, 1863.
Dear Mother,
We reached this place at noon today. This is the town that we came very near moving to some sixr seven years ago.
Just look on the map and see how far the boys (that is most of them) have March since they left Troy. More than half of the days since we left Ft. Scott have been rainy ones and most all the creeks have been up. Considering all these things we have made a very good march so far. I understand that it is just more than forty miles from here to Houston. Genl. Ewing has not overtaken us yet I think he will come through Springfield and reach Houston as soon as we will him. It is fifty miles from here to Springfield we have it reported here that Genl. Hanfees has captured Genl. Lee & six thousand prisoners. I hope it is send direct to me to Rolla Mo via St. Louis, 1st Div. Army of the Frontier. Love to all
Your affectionate son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland
Troy Kans.
Page 15.
Cyrus letter
May 7, 1863.
Page 16.
Confidential
Rolla Mo.
May 24, 1863.
Dear Mother,
I received your [XX] day before yesterday. I was much pleasured to get both of them I have heard that the 13th started for Ft. Scott sometime since. So father may be at home before this time. Three or four days ago general Ewing relieved me from duty with my company and ordered me to duty at his headquarters. He has not announced his staff yet but will in a few days. If he does not appoint me as Aid Dr. Camp I guess will go back to the regiment. Our camp is twenty-seven miles south of this place. The paymaster is there he commenses paying tomorrow I think I'll go back tomorrow providing the Genl. goes. I am the only officer he has with him we are staffing at the Hotel [XX] with him. I will now tell you I have professed to come up Sunday before yesterday while at our camp since received notice that Genl. Solomon & Genl. Herman & Orme would be there by Tuesday [XX] any chance wished him to have
Page 17.
or remain when near [XX] Genl. Ewing started to meet the Gov. & Genl. taking with him three or four officers. (his supposed staff) I included. Well we met them about a mile from camp. Well the service passed of all right. Genl gave a large [XX]. Well yesterday morning the Genl.(Ewing) accompanied the Gov. & Gen up here about five minutes before we started. Genl. Ewing says to me Leland I want you to go up with us [XX] I drive a fine horse we will be payed up to the 1st of May. I write confidential as the head of this letter if I should not get the place that I want on the staff I don't want everybody to know it. So don't say anything about my being detailed yet except to Howard & Gussie. I guess the Genl. would not have detailed me at all if he did not intend to up me. I will write to you in a day or two again. Excuse this ill written letter
Affectionately your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy, Doniphan Co.
Kansas.
Page 18.
Cyrus letter
May 24, 1863.
Page 19.
Planters Haven
St. Louis Mo.
May 28, 1863.
Dear Mother,
I am at St. Louis as you see for the 1st time. I reached here in last evening's train. Genl. Ewing is here we have been paid in full the 1st of May. I send you this morning by US express three hundred $300.00 dollars. I direct it to Howard at Atchison I also send $60 to Mr. Case which Genl. gave me it came to him at St. Joe please tell Mr. Case Mr. Baldwin has sent twenty five to his wife's and thirty to Mrs. Margaret
Page 20.
I have got me a very fine staff uniform. I went to the theater last night with Col. Weir I don't know when I shall return to the Div, probably when Genl. Ewing has. Genl. Ewing has not announced his staff yet but he introduced me as his Aid. I will get my saddle trimmings today. They are still fighting at Wickenburg. I think rather doubtful weather Grant will come out ahead dressed to me in care of Genl. Ewing 1st [XX] Army of Frontier, Rolla Mo.
Your affectionate son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
P. S. Don't you think I change the subject rather [XX] on this page.
Page 21.
Cyrus letter
May 28, 1863.
Page 22.
St. Louis Mo
May 29th/63
Dear Mother,
It is a rainy day here. Genl. Ewing will probably return to the division tomorrow if he does I will accompany him. I bought me a saddle bridal & holsters this morning I gave fifty three dollars for this outfit. Col. Weir has a set of colars for the 10th he is getting the names of the battles that the Regiment has been in inscribed upon them. This city suits me it is quite a city. I went to the St. Louis theater with Genl. Ewing last night and of the plays was
Page 23.
Black Eyed Swear. I saw Genl. McDowell yesterday he is staying at this house. I sent Dr Grant. Grant a copy of a petition recommending him to the Gov. for the position of Surgeon in any of the Kans. Regts. All our officers signed it. Genl. Burris has had his brother-in-law appointed Adjt. of the 10th. The Officers didn't like it they have sent a protest to the Gov. I sent three Hundred dollars to you in name Howard at Atchison yesterday.
Love to all
Cyrus Leland Jr.
Page 24.
Cyrus letter
May 29th 1863.
Page 25.
Rolla Missouri
June 1, 1863.
Dear Mother,
I love St. Louis yesterday morning reached here last night found most all of our officers here. They left for camp this morning. I will go to camp tomorrow. Genl. Ewing has gone to Ohio he will be absent about a week. I had a very good time at St. Louis I found several old Kansas City acquaintances there. Col. Weir has been assigned to duty on Genl. Schofield's staff. We still keep getting good news from Vicksburg. I made the acquaintance of Majr. Pettibone of the 20th Wis Nat. He is a brother of William S. Channey. Pettibone of Portage City. I expect there are several letters for me down at camp. It has been about a week since I was there. Tell Father to direct to me in care of Genl. Ewing 1st Div. Army of Frontier Rolla Mo. I have written to you twice since Johan sent money home but I will write about it once more. I sent $300 to Howard at Atchison I also sent for George Case $60 to his father at St. Joe. Tell all to write often.
Love to all
Your affectionate son
Cyrus Leland
Page 26.
Cyrus letter
June 1, 1863.
Page 27.
Rolla Mo.
June 10 63
Dear Mother,
The Army of the Frontier as been broken up. Genl. Ewing is here he starts for St. Louis and today when he returns he will know where he will be assigned to. He told me this morning that it made no difference where he went or where the 10th was ordered to be would have for me of his Aid if possible. I want you to send me fifty dollars ($50.00) by express to Rolla Mo. Send it as quick as you can conveniently. If you do not receive
Page 28.
this in time to send it by the 15th or 16th inst. you need not send it. Genl. Vandever & Orme with all the infantry of this Army except the infantry of our Division have gone to reinforce Grant. I suppose Father is home I hast
Yours affectionate son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Sarah Leland
Troy Kansas.
Page 29.
Cyrus letter
June 10, 1863.
Page 30.
Rolla Mo.
June 10/63
Dear Mother,
I sent a letter to you this morning by Lieut. Tucker who went to St. Louis with Genl. Ewing. Genl. Ewing received a telegraph dispatch from Genl. Schofield ordering him to St. Louis. In the letter I wrote this morning to you I wish you would send me fifty dollars by US express to Rolla Mo. providing you can send it from Atchison or St. Joe by the 16th or 17th inst. Genl. Ewing told me this morning that wherever he went as the 10th the Regiment was ordered that he intended that I should be
Page 31.
Strickly Confidential
one of his Aides. Dr. Camp he will learn at St. Louis whether we will go to Vicksburg or to Kansas, there is some talk of his having command of the district of Kansas. Col. Weir will come up here in a few days to present the Regiment with a new set of colors. Write me weather you receive the letter that I sent by Tucker to St. Louis this morning, it was dated the 10th the same as this. Love to all
Affectionately your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy Kansas
Page 32.
Cyrus letter
June 10, 1862
Page 33.
Rolla Mo.
June 15/63
Dear Brother,
I received a letter from you a few days ago and was much pleased with your style of writing. You have improved very much in your penmanship lately yet you can improve much more if you will take some pains so to do and I am sure you never will regret the time so occupied. You are already a much better pensman than I am. I sent a letter to mother yesterday, I have written [XX] home most every day for some time, I have not written to Father any lately for I suppose that he may be at home before this time. Today is my birthday I have not heard from Genl. Ewing since he started for Kansas City. I may not get the appointment that I expected yet I have faith and trust
Page 34.
in Providence. As soon as I hear about it that is weather I get it or not I will write to mother.
It is getting to be pretty warm weather down here. I hardly think that we will go to Vicksburg at all nor to the Indian country. If I should get the appointment I wish, I would be stationed at Kansas City.
Love to all
Your Brother
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mr. Howard Leland
Troy, Kansas.
Page 35.
Cyrus letter
June 15, 1863.
Page 36.
Camp at Rolla M0.
June 18, 63.
Dear Mother,
Capt. Price returned from St. Louis is evening. I have not heard from Genl. Ewing since he left here. Col. Weir does not wish to have any of his officers detailed away from the Regiment unless Genl. Schofield will detailed me, which I hardly think likely, I should have to return to my company. So I think that I will return to the company in a few days. Genl. Tothen (Inspector Genl.) Is here to inspect the troops here. Col. Weir is trying to have the Regiment mounted and if Genl. Tothen reports favorably to Genl. Schofield why he will probably make an application to the war Department to have it mounted. Direct to me as 10th K.V. Rolla Mo.
Your affectionate son
Cyrus Leland jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland
Troy Kansas.
Page 37.
Cyrus letter
June 18, 1863
Page 38.
Kansas City, Mo.
June 27, 1863.
Dear Mother,
I arrived here yesterday morning. Genl. Ewing had gone to Olatha he has not returned yet, but will probably this evening. I have been regularly detailed by Genl. Schofield to report to Genl. Ewing at Kansas City the order has been sent to me at Rolla Mo. should you ever receive any letters for me please forward them to me at this place. They received a copy of the order at the Adjt. office here, so there is no mistake about it. I got down to Leavenworth at four oclock PM the day that I left home found Fathr there had a good long talk with him and went to the theater with him. He left for Ft. Scott the next morning. I rode out with him a mile or two towards Lawrence. I saw the Adjt of the 1st Indian he told me that Saxey has not been in any fight and and that he has been droped from the rolls of the Army, so he is everlastingly disgraced. I will write more when I see Genl. Ewing
Page 39.
June 28th.
Genl. Ewing returned last evening. I am to be an Aid De Camp. Price will forward all mail he gets for me to Troy.
I wish you would send me twenty five dollars if you can spare it as well is not. I do not know as I will need it. So do not send it unless you can spare it.
Love to all
Your son
Cyrus Leland Jr..
Page 40.
Cyrus letter
June 27, 1863.
Page 41.
July 27, 1863 [probably June]
I have neglected to send this letter expecting every day to be assigned to duty. I have been assigned to duty this morning asst Prov Marshall [XX] with Maj Plumb [XX] is Provo Marshall of this district.
Genl. Has not announced his aids Dr Camp yet
I will go up to Leavenworth in the morning will return on the 4th or 5th
C.L.
Page 42.
Kansas City Mo.
June 29, 1863.
Dear Mother,
I can hardly tell how long it may be before I can make you all a visite. This headquarter been so near it will take some time before we can get the run of the business. I may go up to Leavenworth in a few days I think the Genl will probably go up there to spend the fourth if he does I will most likely go with him. I sent to you for twenty five dollars I do not wish you to send it unless you can spare it as well or not, for if I go up to Leavenworth I shall be apt
Page 43.
to get my pay up to the first of July. I board now at the Union House have a very good room board is only four dollars per week. There are several lady prisoners at the house they are only allowed the privilege of their rooms. One a young lady as very pretty they are rebels. I wish you would make those good white shirts. Those that I by I [XX] at the prices
Your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland
Troy Kansas.
Page 44.
Cyrus letter
June 29, 1863.
Page 45.
Kansas City Mo.
July 8, 1863.
Dear Mother,
I received some letters from you that Capt. Price forwarded as [XX]. You saw what price wrote me. Are you sure that no one saw the letters but he never would bargain me and it would be serving him a rather poor trick. If I had gone down to [XX] without telling you what I went for you would have thought very strange of me don't you think you would!
Page 46.
Genl. Ewing has just received a dispatch from Genl. Schofield saying that Vicksburg has surrendered and that Lee had been whiped badly. We believe it to be true at any rate Genl. Had a salute fired over it. I spent my fourth at Leavenworth had a good time. I draw my pay up to the 1st of this month. Yesterday I received thirty dollars from you I will send it back by letter soon if I do not get some better way to send it. I received a letter from Father last night dated the 5th inst. Col. Bower stoped here last night. Write often and tell all to write
Love to all
Affectionately your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland
Troy, Kans.
Page 47.
Father has sent a pony horse.
Page 48.
Cyrus letter
July 8, 1863.
Page 49.
Kansas City,Mo
July 11, 1863.
Dear Mother,
I received a letter from Father last night, it was written from Leavenworth City, he is probably at home before this time. I wish it was so that I could go home now. Father wrote that he would call as soon as the came back. It will not be much out of his way to come by here. Put buttons on the shirt I do not wear any studs nor shine buttons fix the wrist bands as you think best? Two shirts will be enough I have four or five now. Have Mr. Crabb been married yet. Love to all
Affectionately your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland
Troy Kansas
Page 50.
Cyrus letter
July 11, 1863.
Page 51.
Kansas City, Mo. July 13, 1863.
Dear Mother,
I wish you would tell Dr. Grant to send me the Patriot direct to this place instead of sending it to the regiment. There is nothing new here. I have not much to do at present. I heard that the 10th had been ordered down the Mississippi. The 11th regiment has been ordered to be mounted. So much for having a big man for the Col. and then to have him promoted to Brig. Genl. The 10th is unlucky in that respect our Col. is always in trouble. I wish you would send me the last two or three back numbers of the Patriot.
Love to all
Your son
Cyrus Leland jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland
Troy, Kansas.
Page 52.
Cyrus letter
July 13, 1863.
Page 53.
Kansas City, Mo.
July 16, 1863.
Dear Mother,
Father stayed over night with me last night, he started to Ft. Scott this morning with Lieut. Lloyd who has an ambulance here he will go through just as quick that way as he would in the stages. I was glad that he came back this way, he is looking well and hearty.
Today I sent you thirty dollars by Express directed to Howard at Atchison, I would have sent you more but I do not know what may happen I might at any time have to return to my Regiment. If you ever get out of money, I'll send you some at any time, it takes but a short time to let me know. Love to all
Your affectionate son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland
Troy, Kansas.
Page 54.
Cyrus letter
July 16, 1863.
Page 55.
Kansas City, Mo.
Aug. 5th, 1863.
Dear Mother,
I got back home last night leave Atchison until Monday afternoon. I succeeded in my business up there very well, I took one prisoner and my detectives found several Gov. horses besides some contraband stock. I may come up in that country again before long. Lieut. Rosenthall returned to this place with me takes it all in all we had a very pleasant trip. Genl. Ewing has gone to St. Louis he will probably be back tomorrow. If I had been here when he left I should have gone with him he intended to take me he expects to find me at Leavenworth. I'll write again tomorrow.
[XX]
Your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland
Troy, Kansas.
Page 56.
Cyrus letter
Aug 5th 1863.
Page 57.
Kansas City, Mo.
Aug. 12th 1863.
Dear Brother,
I have not received the Troy Patriot since I have been here since I left home. I wish you would send me two or three of the back numbers and also see if Dr. Grant is not a going to send me the [XX] and also visit [XX] a while we are having some pretty warm weather down here but then we can afford to lye in the shade most of the time. Rosenthal came back with me he is going out to Westport today to stay as Q.M. I wish that you would send me 9 white cloud chief ones and [XX]. Give my love to all
Your Brother
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mr. Howard Leland
Troy, Kans.
Page 58.
Cyrus letter
Aug. 12, 1863.
Page 59.
Kansas City Mo.
August 16, 1863.
Dear Mother,
I received your letter of the 10th inst. last evening. I have not heard from Father by letter since he left Ft. Scott. Col. Moonlight was here yesterday he told me that father had left Ft. Scott for Ft. Gibson so if they they have kept up steady marching since then they must be near the Arkansas River by this time. I expect to start out into Kansas tomorrow will probably go near Lawrence will not be away more than two or three days, the guard houses for women prisoners fell in a few days since killing five of them none of the guard men were injured. Love to all
Affectionately your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy, Kansas.
Page 60.
Cyrus letter
Aug. 16, 1863.
Page 61.
Kansas City, Mo.
Aug. 10th 1863.
Dear Mother,
Genl.l Ewing returned from St. Louis yesterday morning.
I have not heard from Father but once since I left home. I received a letter from Sarah dated July 28 all well, have you sent my photograph to aunt Eliza. The Union Theater of Leavenworth is now holding forth here. I had quite a good time at Atchison Lieut. Rosenthall was well acquainted there so we called on several founders among them Mr. Graham. I went out a horseback ride with Mrs. Fannie Graham on Sunday. We went to hear Mr. Ryan [XX].
There are some very good people there and I think there are a good many copperheads there. Love to all
Affectionately your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland
Troy, Kans.
Page 62.
Cyrus letter
Aug. 10, 1863.
Page 63.
Kansas City ,Mo.
Aug. 31st 1863.
Dear Mother,
It seems very strange that I cannot hear from you. I have not heard from you since Quantrill's raids. I received a letter from Father dated Ft. Blunt Aug 18th he was well and he expected that they move before long, but did not know which way. Major Honefly & John Hyler came down here yesterday, they went back to Leavenworth this morning. I hear that the 10th Regt. is on its way up because they will know the critical here.
I think it may be near the last of the month before I can come home.
Love to all
Your affectionate son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland
Troy, Kansas.
Page 64.
Cyrus letter
Sept 1, 1863.
Page 65.
Leavenworth City
Sept. 2nd , 1863.
Dear Mother,
Genl. Ewing sent Maj. Phillips and myself up here yesterday to meet Genl. Schofield, we went up to the Ft. last night and met Schofield on the boat there, at three o'clock this morning. He comes down here and will go to Kansas City tomorrow. The people here (some of them) are trying to have Genl. Ewing removed. I hardly think that they will succeed. Yet they may. The Tenth is expected here tomorrow I cannot tell when I see some horses. There is too much going on down here at present
Page 66.
Maj. Hough and John Montague are here. I may send this up my one of them.
Maj. Plumb is sick. It is all wrong about him showing cowardice on that Quantrill chase for I was with him and saw all.. How are you off for money, do you need any.
Love to all
Your affectionate son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mr. C. Leland.
Troy, Kansas.
Page 67.
Cyrus letter
Sept. 2, 1863.
Page 68.
Kansas City, Mo.
Sept. 5, 1863.
Dear Mother,
I wrote you a letter while I was up at Leavenworth and gave it to Maj. Phillips to put in the office there, but he forgot to do it and brought it down here.
Genl. Schofield is here. He has issued an order preventing the militia of either Missouri or Kansas of crossing the state line without permission of the Genl. Comdg. The district. Genl. Schofield & Ewing are going out to Westport this afternoon on a visit of ceremony. I will accompany them.
Eight companies of the 10th are here. Co. F. is at Ft. Leavenworth. Price is in St. Louis. The 10th will be scattered all over the district! [XX] you get another from
Your son to all
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland
Troy Kansas
Page 69.
Cyrus letter
Sept. 5th 1863.
Page 70.
Kansas City, Mo.
Sept 16th 1863.
Dear Mother,
I stayed in Atchison longer than I had expected to. I stopped at Leavenworth to see my company, did not reach here until yesterday.
Maj. Phillips goes to New Mexico. I would probably have gone with him if I had been here when the details were made.
Col.Weir had a brush with the Bushwhackers yesterday, he killed several and captured forty horses.
Love to all
Your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy Kansas
Page 71.
Cyrus letter
Sept. 16th 1863.
Page 72.
Kansas City, Mo.
Sept. 18th, 1863.
Dear Brother,
It has turned quite cold weather down here. How is it up in Doniphan. Tell Mother that I have not had a chance to buy any such peaches as I wished to get, but I think that I will find them in a few days. If I do I will write at least two days before I send them.
Col. Weir came in last night, he has had a brush with bushwhackers, capturing forty horses besides killing several of the reds. Write to me often no matter whether you get any letter from me, write often anyway. Please send my [XX] [XX] patriot of the 10th or 11th inst.
Love to all
Your brother
Cyrus Leland Jr.
I have just received my orders assigning me on the Genls. staff as Aid-de-Camp today from Aug. 2nd/63.
Page 73.
Cyrus letter
Sept 18, 1863.
Page 74.
Kansas City, Mo.
Sept. 23rd, 1863.
Dear Mother,
I have not found any peaches that I thought suitable to ship. There are no country people back in this country to bring any into rmarket. I may find some yet, if I do I will be sure to get them.
I have not heard from Father for a long time. He may be ordered up to Ft. Leavenworth for a witness in Capt. Warren's case. I have more to do now that I have had. [XX] the ast.extra Aid as gone to New Mexico. I have an office to myself and have charge for the clerks, orderlies & musicians.
Love to all, affectionately
Son Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland
Troy Kansas.
P.S.
I have just received two letters from Father one dated Aug. 3rd the other Sept. 9th, all's well. He is acting Brigade 2 [XX] & commissary
C.S. Jr.
Page 75.
Cyrus letter
Sept. 23rd, 1863.
Page 76.
Kansas City. Mo.
Sept. 30th 1863.
Dear Mother,
I have just returned from another trip into Kansas. I went out one hundred miles on the Santa Fe road, was gone just three days & nights pretty good riding, I rode but one horse for the whole trip. I went after a drove of stock that had been stolen by two Lieuts. I found the stock and started it back for the place. While I was out I saw Capt. Loring he saw Father on the 14th inst.
If you wait for me to send you any peaches I am afraid that you will not get any this year. I saw Capt. Bigeby today Price is in St. Louis yet. Nothing new to write today. Love to all
Your affectionate son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy Kansas.
Page 77.
Cyrus letter
Sept 30 1863.
Page 78.
Kansas City, Mo.
Oct. 5, 1863.
Dear Mother,
It has been several days since I received any letters from home, and I don't get the Patriot more than once or twice a month. I should not wonder if therer was a change made in this department before long even if there is it may not affect this district. Should Genl. Ewing be assigned to some other command I would probably go with him. We are getting everything fixed so well for winter that it would be rather hard to leave.
I have not heard from Father since the 14th of last month, then he was well and in good spirits.
Page 79.
We have a dance at the Union House tonight.
I may go up to Leavenworth tomorrow. If I do I can only stay a day or two.
If you want any money write me. I can send you some at any time. Love to all
Your affectionate son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy, Doniphan County,
Kansas.
Page 80.
Cyrus letter
Oct. 5, 1863.
Page 81.
Sedalia Mo.
Oct. 12th, 1863.
Dear Mother,
We are at Sedalia & hear that Genl. Brown is at Boonville and is fighting there. We March again tonight in the direction of Boonville. Col. Weir has poised us.
I am Adj. for the Genl. It keeps me busy and.
Love to all
Your son
Cyrus Leland
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy, Kansas.
P.S. Oct. 16th near Osage River
We overtook the enemy last night and had a bruch with them & drove them they leaving one man killed in the field. It is hardly daylight yet we follow-up today.
C. Leland.
Page 82.
We are a little East Georgetown
Our advance 150 Strong dove the enemy last night, killing & wounding several.
C. L
I don't believe that will will see the Rebels again they are Col. Shelby & Coffee
C. L.
Page 83.
Cyrus letter
Oct 12, 1863.
Page 84.
Camp near Carthage Mo.
Oct 18th 1863 9 PM
Dear Mother,
I have another chance to send you a few lines. A messenger starts for Ft. Scott at 3 o'clock in the morning. We marched yesterday and all last night in all seventy three miles, Coffee's men. The enemy have scattered. I hardly know which way we will march from here, but do not think it will be long before we will reach Ft. Scott. I have not written to Father for a long time. When you write to him tell him for me the amendment we captured this morning had houses & arms. We are pretty well worn out. Love to all
Your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy, Kansas.
Page 85.
Cyrus letter
Oct 18, 1863.
Page 86.
Camp on center Creek Mo.
Eight miles south of Carthage
Oct. 21st 1863.
Dear Mother,
I think I wrote to you from near Carthage telling you about we capturing thirty prisoners.
Today we send back to Ft. Scott our sick & the prisoners we [XX] for rations. We marched this afternoon in the direction of Pea Ridge the enemy are in force near there.
I was in hopes that I could be at home on election day.
The prospect of going North very soon is not any good. Well I hope we will do some good down in this country while we are here.
Love to all
Your son, Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland Jr.
Troy, Kansas.
Page 87.
Cyrus letter
Oct 21st 1863
Page 88.
Ft. Scott Kans.
Oct. 29th, 1863.
Dear Mother,
It has been quite a long time since I have heard from home. I have written to you while in Missouri as most every opportunity. So you must have heard from me rather often. I wrote a letter to father yesterday. A large train leaves here today for Ft. Smith. Southern Kansas has been attached to Genl. Ewing's district. Genl. McNeil relieves Genl. Blunt. We start for Kans. City this morning.
Love to all your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland
Troy, Kansas.
Page 89.
Cyrus letter
Oct 29th, 1863.
Page 90.
Kansas City Mo.
Nov. 4th 1863.
Dear Mother,
I wrote to you last from Ft. Scott when I reached here I found two letters from you. I expect to be paid in a few days then I will send you some money as I could before by borrowing it but I think it will only be a few days before the paymaster will be down here.. We had a very long trip. If I had not been away I should have come up home in order to have been there election day. Write me all the election news. I will write again tomorrow or next day
Love to all your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland
Troy, Kansas.
Page 91.
Cyrus letter
Nov 4, 1863.
Page 92.
Kansas City Mo.
Nov 6th, 1863.
Dear Mother,
I am quite mad at myself for not sending you that money & not waiting for a paymaster. Enclosed you will find ten dollars I will not send the twenty five dollars all at once, and but for safety will send a little at a time. I have just screening Howard's letter of the 1st. I saw by the Patriot the Republican ticket there was some good men on it, yet [XX] but few. Co. F has gone to Ft. Leavenworth. Price left this morning, I think that he will be detailed as President of a court martial, then he will be back here but this Co. will remain at Ft. Leavenworth
Love to all
Your son, Cyrus Leland
To Mrs. C. Leland
Troy, Kansas.
Page 93.
Cyrus letter
1863
Page 94.
Kansas City, Mo.
Nov. 14th, 1863.
Dear Mother,
I received your letter of the 8th inst. was rather glad to hear of Crabb's election. So Howard has sold his pony. I have me a fine mare I got her three or four weeks ago. She is worth one hundred & twenty five dollars, by getting her, it made me a little short of money but at any time you wish any money I can send it to you. I must tell you of a little circumstance in which I was a [XX] somewhat intended at the time. While we were down in Mo. at Neosho the people gave us a dance. There was some of Blunt's scouts there & they got [XX] during the evening. One of them was a little more noisy than the rest. So I put him out of the houes & used him rather roughly in putting him out.
Page 95.
After I had shut the door he fired through it at me, the ball passing over me and very close to Genl. Ewing. I then got a revolver and steped out [XX] as he saw me step out he ran (the scout}. I then commenced firing at the second shot he fell, the ball had jus covered itself in the top of his head just enough to stun him. The folks brought him in and washed his head and he came to his senses. The next morning Genl. discharged him and all of his Ft. Scott scouts and they went back to Ft. Scott.
When we returned to Ft. Scott I saw this chap with his head tied up he told his people at Ft. Scott that he had been bushwhacked in coming up.
Price is to be here today he has been detailed on a court-martial, he will be apt to stay here sometime.
Capt. Jones rooms with Mrs. When price comes we all will room together.
Page 96.
The paymaster is expected down every day. I could get my pay at any time by going to Leavenworth first.
I have attended some very fine dances during the past week one [XX] Wyandotte one at Independence and one here. Shall probably attend one at Olathe next Monday.
I may come home to Thanksgiving and cannot tell at present.
Give my love to all
Your affectionate son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy, Kansas.
P.S. The last time that I had I heard from Father it was through you.
C. L. Jr.
Page 97.
Cyrus letter
Nov. 14, 1863.
Page 98.
Kansas City, Mo.
Nov. 22nd 1863.
Dear Mother,
I received your letter of the 17th inst last night, and I put off answering until today (Sunday). I write to you at least twice a week. But you say you had received but one letter from since I had returned to this plan. You wrote to me saying that you had sold the new house and that Gussie had written me all the particulars she did not say to whom you had sold it nor how much money you received down for it. Do not say anything about what I write to you about Price. He has received permission to go before the examining board at St. Louis to be examined for an officer in one of the Negro regiments.
He intends to start for St. Louis this week. I think that this Board will
Page 99.
give him a good recommendation. Lieut. Whittaker is secretary of the Board. I cannot well come home to spend Thanksgiving, but will try and come up home during the first of next month.
There is quite a good theater here. We have some very pleasant parties here and at the other towns nearby.
What place in Ohio has Julia Irvin gone to. Tell Gussie that I will answer her letter in a day or two.
Love to all
Your affectionate son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy, Kansas.
Page 100.
Cyrus letter
Nov. 22nd, 1863.
Page 101.
Kansas City, Mo.
Nov. 25th 1863.
Dear Brother,
I have just returned from a pleasant ride with Col. Burris and Capt. Jones & Price.
It is getting to be about winter down here. Last night I dreamed of buying a pair of skates, I guess it was on account of Jones getting the clothes off from me.
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving I wish that I could be at home and to spend the day with you all.
I have not received the letter from Father for two months. I am going to send mine (to him) via St. Louis hereafter.
Love to all
Your brother
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mr. Howard Leland
Troy Kansas.
Page 102.
Cyrus letter
Nov. 25th, 1863.
Page 103.
Kansas City, Mo.
Dec. 3rd, 1863.
Dear Mother,
I have been up to Leavenworth and have returned since writing to you last.
I did intend to send a letter to you by Price while I was in Leavenworth but Price started off without seeing me. We are going to have a ball here in memory of Prairie Grove next Monday the 7th.
I do not receive any letters from Father. You have never written me who you sold the house to.
Give my love to all
Your affectionate son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy, Kansas..
Page 104.
Cyrus letter
Dec 3rd, 1863
Page 105.
Confidential Kansas City, Mo.
Dec. 13th 1863.
Dear Mother,
I received your letter telling me how and to whom you sold the house. I think you did very well. She I received a letter from Father dated the 26th or 27th of Nov., he was well and sent you money enough to take up the mortgage, have you received it. I guess you will have some left for winter, unless you make some new instruments. Price has returned he could not pass the examining surgeon on account of so large veins he has on one of his legs.
They were caused by hard marching. It is too bad that after a man in
Page 106.
injures himself in the service that they will not help him to remain in. Well I expect that Price will to serve his time out as a Capt., which of course will keep me where I am . I wish that I could make money but I cannot do it where I am. I may save some but while I am an officer I will be an am not niggardly.
I think your letters are the best written and the neatest I ever see. Price & I think some of spending on Christmas up in Troy if we can get away. I will let you know. It is a very stormy day and a very long one.
Give my love to all
Your affectionate son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy, Kansas.
Page 107.
Cyrus letter
Dec. 13, 1863.
Page 108.
Leavenworth City Kansas,
Dec. 28th 1863.
Dear Mother,
Price Rosenthall and I arrived here all safe this afternoon.
Genl. Ewing was not hear but this evening, Price & I received a dispatch from him ordering us to report to Kans. City by tomorrow. I don't know as this Regiment has left there yet it may be that they wish us there before it leaves in regard to the veterans services.
Price will not gain get into it.
I received my pay for this month today.
Love to all
Affectionately your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland Jr.
Troy, Kansas.
Page 109.
Cyrus letter
Dec. 28, 1863.
Page 110.
Kansas City, Mo.
Jan. 3rd, 1864.
Dear Brother,
The regiment started yesterday for Alton via Sedalia & St. Louis.
I was real sorry to see them go. Price remains for some time on the court-martial.
I received a letter from Father dated the 13th of Nov, he was well then.
I wrote to him today. I enjoyed my visit up home very much, excuse this short letter. Love to all
[XX] Your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy, Kansas.
Page 111.
Cyrus letter
Jan. 3rd 1864.
Page 112.
Kansas City, Mo.
Jan 7th, 1864.
Dear Mother,
At last Genl. Ewing has received official information of the he knew Dept of Kansas . Genl. Custer is to take command of it.
I think that Genl. Ewing will know in a few days what will become of him.
It may be possible that he will will be retained in Genl. Rosecrans department.
This is all my guesswork. Major Phillips and Lieut. Leissuring got in a day or two ago from New Mexico. They had a very hard trip of it.
Page 113.
I wrote a letter to Mr. Quimby yesterday and since Sarah a pamphlet of the Lawrence Massacre
Price is still here. How does Howard like is bay mare. I will send that box as soon as I can, there is no way of sending it at present.
Write soon and let me know what you hear from Father.
Love to all
Your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy, Kansas.
I have not received any letters from you since I left home.
Page 114.
Cyrus letter
Jan. 7th 1864
Page 115.
Kansas City, Mo.
Jan. 10, 1864.
My Dear Mother,
It is Sunday evening and about 9 o'clock.
Price has gone out to see some young lady. I have a touch of the blues or else I am a little homesick.
I have not received any letters from home, since I returned yet I have written you several. I do not got more than two letters a month from Father. So I do not get many letters of late. Genl. Ewing does not know yet where he will be ordered to. I suppose that Genl. Curtis is on his way.
Page 116.
To Leavenworth two take command of the new department. It seems that Genl. Schofield is not to be relieved, if so they are a long time about it.
Ewing may be retained in the Dept. of the Missouri though he would like to go to Grants Army.
Tell Howard that he owes me a letter and I think Gussie does to us to.
If Howard is going to get married, I wish to know it in time to be there.
Love to all
Your Affectionate son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy Kansas.
Page 117.
Cyrus letter
Jan. 10th 1864.
Page 118.
Kansas City, Mo.
Jan. 14th 1864.
Dear Mother,.
I have received your letter of the 5th inst. which is the only one that I have received since my visit up the country. Genl. Ewing as been ordered to report at Leavenworth to Genl. Curtis with his staff, as soon as the 2nd Colorado reaches here, which will be in five or six days, as they are on the way from St. Louis.
I don't know what command Genl. Curtis will give Genl. Ewing, if any. I guess the cold weather is about over with, I hope so any rate. Love to all
Affectionately your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland.
Troy, Kansas.
Page 119.
Cyrus letter
Jan 14th, 1864.
Page 120.
Leavenworth City
Jan 19th , 64.
Dear Mother,
I am here with the Genl. Yet. Will probably return to Kansas City day after tomorrow. I think there is no doubt but that Genl. Ewing will have command of a good district in the department. I wrote to Howard yesterday that is I scratched a few lines to him, the same as I am doing you know. I sent the harness to Atchison. Howard had better get there or some train claims for it. When he goes down to Atchison as there is about that many [XX]. Do not say anything about the harness. Love to all
Your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. C. Leland.
Troy, Kansas.
Page 121.
Cyrus letter
Jan 19th 1864.
Page 122.
Leavenworth City
Jan. 20th 64.
Dear Mother,
We start for Kansas City in the morning that is the Genl. & Staff there is here.
Genl. Ewing will have 2 report back here in five ofr six days. Then I think he will be assigned to this command of some district, I guess it will be this district with headquarters at Ft. Scott, at least this is the way he thinks about it.Genl. Blunt will have the first choice of districts. Say nothing about this to anyone.
Love to all
Affectionately your son, Cyrus's
Cyrus Leland.
I may go to Topeka in the coming few days & see what I can do.
Page 123.
Cyrus letter
Jan 20th 1864.
Page 124.
Strickly Confidential.
Kansas City, Mo.
January 24, 1864.
Dear Mother,
I have written to Father today I received a letter from him dated the 8 inst. I also received two from you and from Howard Gussie & Sarah.
II am making something of an effort to be promoted to major in the 16th. Price is helping me, he don't care for promotion for himself. He wrote several letters for me today. I wrote to Camp about it today. Genl. Ewing as no influence with Gov. Carney, therefore he cannot help me much, if any.
I don't think there is much certainty in my getting it. Yet it may to try. Love to all
Your son
Cyrus Leland Jr.
To Mrs. Cyrus Leland
Troy, Kansas.
We report up to Leavenworth this week though our headquarters will not be there they may be at Ft. Scott or Paola.
Page 125.
Cyrus letter
Jan 24th, 1864.
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