Office of Chf of Art &c. Dec 21st 1862. Col. I have recieved a Communication, Endorsed "Report of Capt. Reid Comdg: battery at Log town &c" I am Somewhat acquainted the Subject matter, which Genl. [Thomas C.] Hindman desires investigated - And upon Several points Submit the following report Concerning the Condition of the horses. The Condition of the horses, is most likely to have been as represented - A few day's since I addressed you a communication in which I stated that I was advised that the horses of the several batteries "were starving" - As to the matter of collars, I found it impossible to get Collars from the Ordnance office, or Quartermaster department - I therefore gave an order to impress collars - Since the guns were turned over to Captain Reid, Lt. Parker of his battery has had authority to impress collars; this was the only means by which a supply could be obtained, and as only four were needed the least amount of exertion, could have obtained them - Immediately after the battle, [Francis A.] Shoups battery (7 guns) was ordered to this place, for repairs, and remained, I think two days - Workmen in the Employ of the government, worked upon it and it was onely removed from their hands, when repairs practicable had been completed - Respectfully, D. [David] Provence, Col & Chf of Art. 1st Corps T.M.A. To. Col R [Robert]. C. Newton Chf of Staff &c AAGenl

Provence, David. Letter to Robert C. Newton. 21 Dec. 1862. Peter Wellington Alexander Papers, Box 13, Rare Book & Manuscript Library at Columbia University in the City of New York. http://cdm.sos.mo.gov/cdm/singleitem/collection/mack/id/9452/rec/3