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I replied that when the prisoners were delivered up it would be time enough to talk of peace, and that I would not grant their permission either to take their dead or wounded.
I am assured by Campbell that there is serious depression in the Indian camp, many having been opposed to the war, but driven into the field by the more violent.
He further stated that eight hundred Indians were assembled at the Yellow Medicine, within two miles of the camp, but that the greater part took no part in the fight.
The intention of Little Crow was to attack us last night, but he was overruled by others, who told him if he was a brave man he ought to fight the white man by daylight.
I am fully prepared against night attack, should it be attempted, although I think the lesson received by them today will make them very cautious for the future.
I have already adverted to the courage and skill of Lieut.-Colonel Marshall, and Majors Welch and Bradley, to which I beg leave to add those of the officers and men under their respective commands.
Lieut.-Colonel Averill and Major McLaren were equally prompt in their movements in preparing the Sixth regiment for action, and were both under fire for some time.
Captains Grant and Bromley shared the dangers of the field with Lieut.-Colonel Marshall's command, while Capt. Wilson with his command rendered efficient service.
The other companies of the Sixth regiment were not engaged, having been held in position to defend the rear of the camp, but it was difficult to restrain their ardor, so anxious were officers and men to share with their comrades the perils of the field.
To Lieut.-Colonel Fowler, my A. A.A. G., I have been greatly indebted for aid in all my movements — his military knowledge and ability being invaluable to me, and his assistance in to-day's affair particularly so. To Major Forbes, Messrs. Patch, Greig and McLeod, of my staff, who carried my orders, I must also acknowledge myself under obligations for their activity and zeal; while to Major Brown, also of my staff, though suffering from illness, it would be injustice not to state that he aided me materially by his exertions and his advice.
The medical staff of the several regiments were cool and expert in rendering their professional aid to the wounded.
Assistant Surgeon Seigneuret, attached to my staff, is to be commended for his skill and diligence.
I am very much in want of bread, rations, six-pounder ammunition, and shells for the howitzer, and unless soon supplied I shall be compelled to fall back, which, under present circumstances, would be a calamity, as it would afford time for the escape of the Indians with their captives.
I hope a large body of cavalry is before this on their way to join us. If I had been provided with five hundred of this description of force to-day, I venture the assertion that I could have killed the greater part of the Indians, and brought the campaign to a successful close.
Rev. Mr. Riggs, Chaplain of the expedition, so well known for his knowledge of the character and language of the Indians, has been of great service to me, since he joined my command.
Very respectfully, your ob't servant,
H. H. Sibley, Colonel Commanding.
