File:Letter signed J.O. Shelby to Col. White, Lex. (Lexington), Mo., September 1, 1861.jpg

Transcription: 1

Col White

Comdg U.S forces at Lex Mo[Lexington, Missouri]

Sir

The last time I had the honor of communicating with you, I addressed you as above (as commander) I labored as you informed me, under a mistake, (not being a commander) allow me to Say I do hope you are the representive of the forces there collated as I am Satisfied you will (in case fate should cast us in your hands) deal with us as prisoners should be dealt with — But to the point — I have to day learned that, you had reached Lexington and had assumed command: But as it is simply a report, and as I have no positive evidence you are there, I have determined to Send a Union man

2

With this communication, fearing that should you be absent, were I to Send one of my own men, he might be detained. Were I Satisfied you were there, I would not hesitate

I have learned that to day one James Hicklin had been arrested, and as I with 50 of my men was at his house on Friday last, and there and then did water my horses, and in no otherwise did partake of his hospitality that from that face was deemed Sufficient cause for Said Hicklin’s arrest; and as I was guilty of taking Said privilege (of watering horses) without his knowledge or consent (for he was absent at the time) I feel as tho’ I had been instrumental in his arrest

3

I hold two of your men (as a matter of course. I know you are not willing to recognize us as beligerent) But as a precedent I refer to the course of Maj Sturgess after the fight at Springfield I now propose if you will consent to the release of Said Hicklin, I will release one McCormack and Thompson, who are now under arrest by my order.

Believing Sir, that you will at least answer my communication, and that you will, be as [word unclear] as possible

I have the honor to remain your obt

Jo O Shelby[Joseph O. Shelby]

Ofr[?] Comdg

[word unclear]

Sept 1 / 61