ON WALNUT HILLS, ABOVE
VICKSBURG,
May 19, 1863.
We made a full circuit, entered Jackson first, destroyed an
immense quantity of railroad and Confederate property, and then pushed for this
point which secures the Yazoo and leaves [us] to take Vicksburg. We assaulted
yesterday, but it is very strong. We estimate its present garrison at 15,000 or
more, and Johnston is hovering about with reinforcements. We had a heavy fight
yesterday. Regulars suffered much — Capt. Washington killed, five officers
wounded Charley in the hand. He saved the colors. He is now in the midst of
shells and shot. Hugh is also under fire, and had a hard time yesterday. We
reached the very parapet, but did not enter the works. We are now encircling
the town. I am on the right, McPherson centre, and McClernand left. We are all
in good health and spirits at this moment, and, having reached and secured the
Yazoo, will soon have plenty to eat. I must again go to the front amid the shot
and shells, which follow me but somehow thus far have spared me. Charley's
wound is in the hand, slight, and he now commands the battalion. Keep easy and
trust to luck. This is a death struggle and will be terrible. Thus far success
has crowned our efforts and we are on high ground, on a level with the enemy,
but they are fortified and we must attack, quicker the better. Grant is off to
the left with McClernand who did not push his attack as he should. Bang,
pop, go the guns and muskets, and I must to the front. I have slept on the
ground the last two nights to Hill's1 disgust, and he hangs around
me like a shadow with a canteen. He is very faithful, but came up to me
yesterday under fire with great reluctance!
__________
1 Sherman's body-servant.
SOURCES: M. A. DeWolfe Howe, Editor, Home Letters of
General Sherman, p. 261-2. A full copy of this letter can
be found in the William
T Sherman Family papers (SHR), University of Notre Dame Archives
(UNDA), Notre Dame, IN 46556, Folder CSHR 2/04.
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