I haven't seen that book, but I would like to. I have a large library but I'm on SS now (age 73) and can't afford many now. In fact, I've been selling what I have, except for the Civil War books. I'm primarily a genealogist, but do have a strong interest in Missouri in the War.
I'm very familiar with most Guerrilla activity in Vernon County. Bill Marchbanks went to Texas. He married, had kids and died there.
I suspect Connelly was just given bad info about Holt by people he interview. He also said Holt had a store in Vernon that was looted by Jayhawkers.
Holt did own a store, in Clay Co.
Jim