From Fort Leavenworth I returned by steamboat to St.Louis.
In the summer of 1852, my family went to Lancaster, Ohio; but I remained at my post.

Late in the season, it was rumored that I was to be transferred to New Orleans, and in due time I learned the cause.

During a part of the Mexican War, Major Seawell, of the Seventh Infantry, had been acting commissary of subsistence at New Orleans, then the great depot of supplies for the troops in Texas, and of those operating beyond the Rio Grande.

Commissaries at that time were allowed to purchase in open market, and were not restricted to advertising and awarding contracts to the lowest bidders.

It was reported that Major Seawell had purchased largely of the house of Perry Seawell & Co., Mr.Seawell being a relative of his.