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base of the Staked Plains in suitable locations, in lieu of expedition from Sill and Concha. Expeditions with our limited transportation find themselves with only Enough supplies to carry them back, when they reach the present country of the Indians, whereas Commanders at the base of the Staked Plains, with their wants filled, would have short lines of operations, and be able to stir up the Indians continuously.

         If Bascom and Sumner were reoccupied in connection with these cantonments, I believe it would tend towards an early punishment and subjection of the hostile bands.
         The Cheyennes, from all I can learn, will probably when hard pushed, attempt to join their brethren farther North.
         The Quahadoes, Noconees and other Comanches attempt to get into Mexico.  This report is written with as little detail as possible.
                                                   I am Sir, very respectfully
                                           (Sgd) J. W. Davidson
                                                     Lt. Col. 10th Cavalry
                                                     Bvt. Maj. Gen'l. U. S.A.
                                                          Commanding

P. S.

         My march is sketched in double red ink lines on the skeleton map, made under my orders at this post.  Scouts from the Main Column in single lines, and the distance marched was 500 miles.
                                                      (Sgd.)  J. W. Davidson
                                                                  B. M. Gen'l.

4331. D. T.'74. __________________________________________________________________________________________________