Head Qrs 1st [Indian] Brigade 1st. Div. 1st. A.C. Trans Miss Dept. Scullyville [Skullyville, Choctaw Nation, Indian Territory] 19th Dec 1862 Genl I have to enclose letter from Capt Hawk [Tresevant C. Hawpe] reporting his arrival and requesting that the deserters from his company [31st Texas Cavalry] who are in Texas may be arrested & sent back - also that three of his men who have been detailed to drive teams may be returned to his Company. Capt Hawp is appears has had much trouble & been at very heavy expense in getting up & fitting out his Company and has had many obstacles to contend with. All of which he will be better able to explain to you than I am. I hope the Captain may be allowed to fill up his Company, even if the deserters are not reclaimed. He came in under Gen [Albert] Pikes order, last summer, but I understand you have to have decided, in the case of the Company of Engineers - that all musters prior to octr 10th 1862 were legalized. Such being the case Capt Harps men are clearly in the service & the deserters should be arrested. Shall I order Col [Charles] DeMorse [30th Texas Cavalry] to have it done? This will be handed you by Capt [William] Hart whom I beg leave to introduce. Respectfully Douglas H Cooper Brig Genl Comdg Maj. Genl T. [Thomas] C. Hindman Comd 1st Army Corps Head Qrs near Van Buren Arks.