History of Utah, 1540-1886 - Brigham Young University

500
THE GOVERNMENT IN ARMS.
Before the end of June 1857 the first division of
the army of "Utah was assembled at Fort Leavenworth,
and before the end of July was on its march
to Salt Lake City, Harney remaining meanwhile with
some squadrons of the second dragoons in Kansas,
where trouble was anticipated at the forthcoming
elections in October. In the instructions issued to
the general, it was stated that though the lateness of
the season and the smallness of the force presented
difficulties, if not danger, it was believed that these
obstacles might be overcome by care in its outfit and
prudence in its conduct. No expense was to be spared
that would insure the efficiency, health, and comfort
of the troops; a large discretion was allowed in the
purchase of supplies, and no reasonable limit was placed
as to the number of guides, interpreters, spies, and
laborers to be employed. The men were to be so com-
pletely equipped as to act, for a time, as a self-sustaining
machine, and to be kept well massed and in hand.
Detachments were not to be lightly hazarded, but a
small, though sufficient, force was to move separately
in charge of the more cumbersome part of the convoy,
and in advance of the rest, until overtaken by the main
body, when it was to form the rear-guard. Thus no
precautions were omitted that might serve to insure
the success of the expedition, and it was hoped that
its purpose might be attained without the loss of a
single life.
Meanwhile, events of some importance had transpired
at Washington. The governorship of Utah,
after being refused by several persons, was accepted
in July by Alfred Cumming, who had recently been
superintendent of Indian affairs on the upper Missouri,
in which capacity he had displayed tact and executive
ability. About the same time D. R. Eckles
was appointed chief justice, and John Cradlebaugh
and Charles E. Sinclair, associate judges.
During the month of June, also, a contract granted
to Hiram Kimball, for the carriage of the United