That is very interesting stuff and I think your interpretation is correct. I also agree fully with your closing comments about "image." For some time now I have been convinced that Marmaduke and Shelby (and, of course, Edwards) engaged in a conspiracy beginning in October or November 1862 to enhance the image of the Missouri cavalry contingent in Hindman's army and, not so conincidentally, to make each other look good. I have never found a "smoking gun" but there is plenty of circumstantial evidence.