Although unclear as to the exact nature of the litigation, this letter from the Leavenworth firm pertained to the taking of depositions in "the case against the steamboat Isabella". The Isabella was a side-wheeler which made regular runs to Sioux City during 1858, and in this case apparently came to the aid of the Kate Howard when ice forced her to "give up her trip".
Kansas Memory
Kansas Historical Society
W.T. Sherman, Thomas Ewing, & McCook, to George B. Parker - p. 3