After three weeks of occupation our strength promised to be diminished.

Half of General Lyon's command consisted of "three-months men," whose period of enlistment was drawing to a close.

A portion of these men went to St.Louis, some volunteered to remain as long as the emergency required their presence, and others were kept against their will.

Meantime, General Lyon made the most urgent requests for re-enforcements, and declared he would be compelled to abandon the Southwest if not speedily strengthened.

General Fremont promised to send troops to his assistance.