20037. Hd'qrs. Camp Date Creek, A.T., November 6th, 1871, Asst. Adjutant General, Department of Arizona, Prescott, A.T. (letter)

Hd’qrs. Camp Date Creek, A.T. November 6th, 1871 Asst. Adjutant General Department of Arizona Prescott, A.T. Sir: A report reached me at 8 o’clock this morning that the stage which left Wickenburg, A.T. for La Paz yesterday was attacked seven miles from the former place. Six of the passengers were Killed and two wounded. From the statement made to me I am led to believe that the attack was made by parties seeking plunder. As evidence of this it is said that the mail bags were cut open and registered letters stolen. Valises and other packages were cut open and a portion of their contents taken. The pockets of the murdered men were turned inside out, while blankets, some of bright colors were not touched, neither were the animals pertaining to the mail coach. I have sent Captain Meinhold with a detachment of his troop to examine into the affair, and the Surgeon of the Post to attend to the wounded. I am Sir, Very respectfully, Your obedient servant, R.F. O’Beirne, Captain 21st Infantry, Commanding Post.