My own driver became so shaky that I had to act as driver and cook.

But in due season I reconnoitred the road, and made contracts for repairing some bridges, and for cutting such parts of the road as needed it.

I then returned to Fort Leavenworth, and reported, receiving a fair compensation.

On my way up I met Colonel Sumner's column, returning from their summer scout on the plains, and spent the night with the officers, among whom were Captains Sackett, Sturgis, etc.

Also at Fort Riley I was cordially received and entertained by some old army-friends, among them Major Sedgwick, Captains Totted, Eli Long, etc.
Mrs.Sherman and children arrived out in November, and we spent the winter very comfortably in the house of Thomas Ewing, Jr., on the corner of Third and Pottawottamie Streets.