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matter in search of the true facts and learn in substance as follows: That early yesterday morning a party of Indians numbering 16 attacked and killed Mr. & Mrs. Riggs and carried off two of their daughters, near Cow House Creek, 16 or 18 miles north- west of this place. This family were about midway between their own and another house. A Mr. Lee coming up armed saved two of the Riggs children. In the same neighborhood the Indians killed a young man named Pierce. About 11 a.m. this side of Riggs' they came upon Mr. Charles Cruger, (who was trying to secure his horse from them) chased him some distance and drove off his horses. I am not certain but they also chased another and have not time to learn positively before the mail closes. These facts were only made known here this morning. We at the same learned a party from that neighborhood had gone in pursuit, and as I write a small party is mounting here for the same purpose. I would be one of the members, but from the ab- sence of my horse and the very short notice I have had of their going-not half an hour. I know the stock of Mr. Cruger and regard them as one of the finest selections of American mares in this section, averaging in value probably of $200 each. His loss is reported at 15 mares, though I think he owns about 30. Other depredations have doubtless been committed of which I will advise you as soon as known. Hastily your friend JNO. HENRY BROWN Private When I first heard of this this forenoon very few credited the report, and it was 12 before I was satisfied & not till 2 could I learn what I have written. As I have not time please furnish Major Marshall the data- Will advise you promptly of all that happens- B No. 239 LETTER FROM JOHN HENRY BROWN TO GOVERNOR RUNNELS Belton, March 18, 1859 Dear Governor- Mr. Blackburn, just in from Noland's Creek, (12 m.) 16 miles west of this, informs us that the two Riggs children were recov-
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