With considerable interest I have read this string of messages with regards to the MSM and its operating outside the boundaries of Missouri. I have studied the workings of the regiments that operated in the western portion of the state to wit, the 6th, 7th, & 8th MSM and now that I have acquired their records can show that in 1863 companies from all three regiments operated outside the border on authority of the Department of Missiouri General orders through thier District headquarters. One example comes to mind, for at least five months three companies of the 6th MSM in rotation with the 8th MSM were stationed at Lewisburg, Ark. Catherwood and his 6th MSM participated in the campaign to seize Ft. Smith under Generl Blunt and the fight at Backbone Mountain. Naturally parts of all the regiments participated in the pursuit of Price in 64.

Having now come into possession of the MSM records I can now proceed with publication of the regimental histories with their company rosters. Sorting out the various political figures as well as the fact that Governor Gamble paid for the MSM through his personal accounts from funds deposited by the federal government seems to opens other lines of questions.