While transcribing a number of unpublished I.H.G. documents I encountered a document written in the hand of Colonel W. A. Phillips. The document is a circular written to the men of the Brigade who were about to depart on the expedition south of the Arkansas during February 1864.

The first part of the document instructs his men on how to shoot, when to shoot and not to straggle, warning them that it was through straggling that they have lost most of their casualties. Phillips further instructs his men not to shoot prisoners but he does not ask them to to take prisoners.

Of considerable interest is mention of murders of IHG family members to which Phillips gives specific locations. I quote the last paragraph of that document for the general reaction of readers of this board and discussion.

"I ask you to make your footsteps severe and terrible. We have offered peace too long and our offer has been insulted. The time has now come when you are to remember the author of all your suffereings. Those who started a needless and wicked war. Who drove you from your homes. Who robbed you of your property, ----- Standby me faithfully. We will soon have peace. Watch over each other to keep each other right, and to be ready to strike a terrible blow on those who murdered your wives and little ones by the Red Fork, along the Verdigris or by Dave Vanns Cow Pens. Do not be afraid. We have always beaten them We will surely win. May God go with us.'

Wm. A. Phillips

Immediate questions come to mind: The who, what & when did these events occurr. From the tenor of the document these were recent events and meant to incite the men to seek retribution.