I am advised that there are some twelve deserters in hiding in Jackson County. That these men are becoming very formidable, and that the citizens live more or less in terror of them. I am advised that they range through the counties of Jackson, Swain and Macon. I suggest that you see the sheriffs Swain and Macon, and agree upon a number of deputies to be assigned for the work, and at the same time call upon United States Marshal Chas. A. Webb to send some of his deputies to help, and then for you all, that is the three sheriffs and their deputies and the men sent out by Mr. Webb to go out after these deserters. I am sending a copy of this letter to the Sheriff of Swain and to the Sheriff of Macon and to Mr. Webb, and I trust that you gentlemen will all get together at once.