HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF WEST TENNESSEE,
Savannah, March 21, 1862.
Maj. Gen. H. W.
HALLECK,
Saint Louis, Mo.:
I have just returned
from Pittsburg. The roads back are next to impassable for artillery or baggage
wagons. I have certain information that thirteen trains of cars arrived at
Corinth on the 19th, with twenty cars to each train, all loaded with troops.
This would indicate that Corinth cannot be taken without a general engagement,
which, from your instructions, is to be avoided. This, taken in connection with
the impassable state of the roads, has determined me not to move for the
present without further orders.
The temper of the
rebel troops is such that there is but little doubt but that Corinth will fall
much more easily than Donelson did when we do move. All accounts agree in
saying that the great mass of the rank and file are heartily tired. One thing I
learn, however, is against us: Most of the impressed troops from this State are
being sent to the sea-coast and older soldiers from there.
I do not think as
yet any steps are being taken to interfere with the navigation of the river.
Bands of cavalry are prowling all over West Tennessee collecting men who have
been drafted into the service and such supplies as they can get.
Some 9 or 10 men
made their escape from the cars at Bethel, and came in here yesterday. From
them I learn there are about 400 men at Union City, two regiments of infantry
and probably some cavalry at Humboldt, a force not estimated at Jackson, and
small forces at various points on the road.
Paris and Bethel are
deserted. They think the force at Union City is anxious to be captured.
I have just learned
to-day that your dispatches to me after the taking of Fort Donelson reached
Fort Henry—some of them, at least—but were never sent to me. What has become of
the operator, then, at Fort Henry? I don't know. At present a soldier detailed
from the ranks is filling the station. I have received no mail matter from
below for several days, though boats are arriving constantly. My returns for
the 20th will be ready to mail to-morrow.
U.S. GRANT,
Major-general.
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