20046. Headquarters Department of Arizona, Prescott, November 12th, 1871. Date Creek Camp, Commdg. Officer (letter)

Headquarters Department of Arizona Prescott, November 12th, 1871 Date Creek Camp Commdg. Officer Sir: Referring to the reports of the late attack upon the stage near Wickenburg and the massacre of the passengers, the Department Commander directs me to say that he regrets that suitable Indian guides, trailers, were not sent out with Captain Meinholds Command, and that pursuit was not kept up at any sacrifice to determine definitely whether the perpetrators were Indians or Mexican bandits or both. You will as far as possible remedy the defect by diligent inquiry among the Indians now drawing rations at your post, and by such other investigation as you think necessary to determine that matter definitely, and make report thereon without delay. The importance of a thorough searching investigation of this matter cannot be too earnestly impressed upon you. I am Sir, Very respectfully, Your obd’t. servant, A.H. Nickerson, Captain 23rd Infantry, A.A.C. and A.A.A. Gen’l.