Sir:

I'm not convinced of that. Have you written a lot of critiques or diatribes against Jennison and Lane and Anthony? I doubt it. I agree with you about McCulloch and also most of the high command in the Confederacy wanting to distance themselves from Quantrill. But they all wished to use him also, to the hilt, and especially Price. have you read Price's glowing report of the annihilation of General Blunt's men at Baxter Springs. You ought to before you go too far in talking about Price's wish to distance himself from the guerrillas. Most regular army officers are disconcerted and a bit embarrassed by guerrilla operations. In the case of the Missouri guerrillas, who were killed ALWAYS upon capture, how would you react under the same circustances? Would you use Marquis of Queensbury rules of engagement? Honestly, I doubt it. Forgive me if I'm blunt. I've had a long habit of being honest, and I've never been able to break it.

Don G.