Lincoln January 6th 1891.
Rushville. Nebraska.
My Dear General.
As you are a member of my Staff, I have detailed you for special service; the particular nature of which, was made known during our conversation.
You will proceed to the scene of the Indian troubles, and communicate with General Miles.
You will in addition to the special service refered to, please visit the different towns, if time permit, along the line of the Elkhorn Rail-Road, and use your influence to quiet excitement and remove apprehensions upon the part of the people.
Please call upon General Colby, and give him your views as to the probability of the Indians breaking through the cordon of regular troops; your superior knowledge of Indian character and mode of warfare, may enable you to make suggestions of importance.
All Officers and members of the State Troops, and all others, will please extend to you every courtesy.
In testimony whereof,
John M. Thayer,
Governor.
In this campaign against the Indians Buffalo Bill rendered valuable services and was ordered to the command of General Colby of the National Guard of the State of Nebraska, and to report to General Miles, the commander-in-chief.