Note 8 — Chapter IV · Genl. L. S. Ross.—Battle of the Wichita.
Reading edition
—The following letter from Gen. L. S. Ross, touching upon the battle of the Wichita Mountains and the re-capture of “Lizzie Ross,” is here appropriately inserted:
“Waco, Texas, July 12. 1884.
“Mr. James T. DeShields. Dear Sir:—My father could give you reliable data enough to fill a volume. I send you photograph of Cynthia Ann Parker, with notes relating to her on back of photo. On the 28th of October, 1858, I had a battle with the Comanches at Wichita Mts., and there recaptured a little white girl about eight years old, whose parentage, nor indeed any trace of her kindred, was ever found. I adopted, reared, and educated her, giving her the name of Lizzie Ross; the former name being in honor of the young lady—Lizzie Tinsley—to whom I was then engaged and afterwards married—May, 1861.
“Lizzie Ross grew to womanhood, and married a wealthy merchant living near Los Angeles, California, where she now resides. See History of ‘Ross’ Brigade’ by Victor M. Rose, and published by Courier-Journal, for a full and graphic description of the battle and other notable incidents. I could give you many interesting as well as thrilling adventures of self and father’s family with the Indians in the early settlement of the country.
“He can give you more information than any living Texian, touching the Indian character, having been their agent and warm and trusted friend, in whom they had confidence.
“My early life was one of constant danger from their forays, and I was twice in their hands and at their mercy, as well as the other members of my father’s family.
“But I am just now too busy with my farm matters to give you such data as would subserve your purpose.
“Yours truly, L. S. Ross.”