"Monday, July 22d 1861
I learn this morning that several of Our Company have declined going, and others intend to leave us and join Morgan's Company. Desha won't let them elect the Seargents and Corporals, and in consequence there is considerable dissatisfaction. I suggested to him the prospect of letting the boys elect these officers, and then for him afterward to appoint them, but he seems to be afraid some of his favorites will be left out."
This is from a letter written by L.A. Dickson who became the 8th Arkansas' assisstant surgeon. Technically at this time, Desha was only authorized to raise a company, but he was in the process of obtaining authorization to raise a regiment and I believe acting in preparation for this event.