Ken, as a matter of fact that date is wrong. I have my Great Grandfathers diary when he was serving with the 6th Missouri State Militia Cavalry and was part of that expedition that seized Ft. Smith., he mentions where they camped which is consistant with the periods given. This is additionally confirmed with a diary from the 2nd Kansas Cavalry who was with the 6th MSM at Devils Backbone. Is this Blunts letter? It has that feel.