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while in pursuit of a rebel force. Lieut. H.D.B. Cutter while riding alone some distance in advance of the main column came upon a party of seven armed rebels who were on a scout watching the movements of the “Federals” known to be in that neighborhood. On discovering Lieut. Cutter they fired a volley at him, wheeled their horses in the road and made off as rapidly as possible, evidently thinking the main column was upon them. Lieut. Cutter was armed with two army revolvers, one of which he drew and charged after the enemy who were mounted on inferior horses. He, riding a fast horse, soon overtook the rear man, whom he shot from his horse and proceeded on, overtaking the men in detail and either killed or wounded all of them. The rebels kept the road and endeavored to reach the main force to give them warning of the approach of the enemy. They, finding themselves pursued, did not have time to ascertain by what force and as they had discharged their guns, their only safety was in flight. The chase continued for four miles before the last man was overtaken. Maj. Drake who [heard?] the volley fired by the enemy, moved forward as rapidly as possible and found the dead and wounded rebels about half a mile apart. No more gallant deed has been performed during this war. Lieut. Cutter came near riding into the camp of the enemy who were only a short distance from where the chase ended. The main force succeeded in making their escape before Maj Drake came up. On the 28th of February our forces had reached the Arkansas line driving before them the forces of Coleman, McBride, and Fairchild who were now concentrated and numbered over one thousand men. The rout and defeat of Coleman at West Plains only a short time before had intimidated the enemy, who now took refuge with overwhelming forces in a swamp near Salem Arkansas. Our men were compelled to dismount and advance on foot. They were supplied with Missouri Mountain Howitzers, which were of immense service. The fight was a spirited one and lasted for several hours when the enemy retreated. Our men were now out of ammunition and forced to return to Salem, which they did by way of West Plains and Houston, taking with them a large number of prisoners, horses, and arms; the loss of the 3d Iowa in the engagement was six men.