Harrison Traphagen writes to his parents from Fort Madrid, noting that they have finally encountered the Rebels. He writes that they left Camp Benton in the afternoon and made their way to Col Hunters Farm where they stayed the night and made rebel corn fly in their wake. Traphagen details that after the Regiment arrived here, they went out for a ride within 200 yards of Rebel guns and were fired upon, although no one was hurt. Traphagen writes that there are approximately 20,000 troops there at present, and more coming. He continues noting that he was on guard last night and witnessed heavy artillery fire on both sides, leading him to believe there will be severe fighting in the next few days. Traphagen concludes by writing that William Boohh will soon be promoted to Second Lieutenant, however he thinks Crain should have been First and Oscar Second Lieutenant.
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