George, I re-read your note. (after a good night's sleep and cup of coffee, haha)
you wrote:
"I do not understand the record you quote as Indigent. What is the source of that fact? I suspect that this was granted to the widow by local authorities who had no idea of his military status which may not have had an effect on her granted relief. "

Now, I understand what you were trying to explain. (They didn't has UPS or the net!). The time frame in between arrest and "desertion" or not available for roll call was not that long. Perhaps, the official in Beaumont that nominated Thomas H Cussen and his wife and children for the Indigent list felt concern for them and did not know about the arrest and "desertion" report. Just one scenario idea and it makes good sense to me.

I still wonder about the story I recently learned - that he was hung by mistake as a cattle thief. Maybe, it could have happened after his "desertion" or not being present for muster call after the arrest. In anyway, my heart is broken for my Great grandfather x2... and especially, his wife of three years dying of yellow fever Sep 1864 in Galveston. Bless the widow that nursed her and her sister that followed from Beaumont and adopted Thomas's two baby boys.

George - thank you again. Your time is valuable. I know all this happened long ago, but it still affects the soul. In fact, all the stories from others touch me too. I am a retired RN and artist, so I am used to healing and caring and being sensitive. Regards, Irin Smith