Sam Bowen and Sam Clemens were friends and compatriots of Absolam Grimes famous for his message running and ability to escape from the Federal authorities in St. Louis. Clemens service in the Civil War was the result of his not willing to take the oath when his pilots license came up for renewal in 1861. He, Grimes and Bowen ended up returning to NE MO and enlisted in one of the county volunteer units. Bowen continued in Southern service and describes his service quite well in his autobiography. Clemens went west to live with his brother I believe. I would be willing to take a crack at the cipher. I've a daughter in Lee's Summit shall I have her pick up photocopies or do you prefer to scan and email jrussell@clas.net

John R.