I have letters for Governor Clark of Missouri, and Governor Reynolds of Illinois; also one to General Atkinson at Jefferson Barracks, detailing my views on the present Indian situation.

These are confidential, and I hesitate to entrust them to the regular mail service.

I had intended sending them down river in charge of a non-commissioned officer, but shall now utilize your services instead--that is, if you are willing to assume their care ?" "Very gladly, of course." "I thought as much.

Each of these is to be delivered in person.
Captain Thockmorton informs me that he will be prepared to depart within an hour.

You can be ready in that time ?" I smiled.
"In much less.