On October 26, Grant cabled Halleck proposing a move on Vicksburg. (He also complains about leaking information from General Curtis across the river, and asks for a unified command).
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE,
Jackson, Tenn., October 26, 1862.
General H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.:You never have suggested to me any plan of operation in this department, and as I do not know anything of those of commanders to my right or left I have none therefore that is not independent of all other forces than those under my immediate command.
As situated now, with no more troops, I can do nothing but defend my positions, and do not feel at liberty to abandon any of them without first consulting you. I would suggest, however, the destruction of the railroads to all points of the compass from Corinth, by the removal of the rails to this place or Columbus, and the opening of the road from Humboldt to Memphis. The Corinth forces I would move to Grand Junction, and add to them the Bolivar forces except a small garrison there. With small re-enforcements at Memphis I think I would be able to move down the Mississippi Central road and cause the evacuation of Vicksburg and to be able to capture or destroy all the boats in the Yazoo River. I am ready, however, to do with all my might whatever you may direct, without criticism.I see in the papers of Saturday that General Curtis has refused permits to $30,000 worth of liquors which have been authorized to be shipped to Memphis; among it 750 barrels whisky to one of my staff. As no member of my staff has ever been engaged since entering the army in any speculation by which to make a dollar I care nothing for the publication; but as the information could have been derived only from General Curtis’ headquarters I think it a matter requiring explanation. I telegraphed General Curtis for the explanation but he has not replied.
The facts are these: I gave a Mr. Farrington, an undoubted Union citizen of Memphis, permission to ship $7,000 worth of liquor to Memphis, subject to Treasury restrictions. Finding that these stores could not be got out of Saint Louis approved, Farrington asked Colonel Pride, who has never been more than a volunteer aide on my staff, to introduce him. From this has sprung the report. I would respectfully suggest that my permits be good for all articles coming into this departments, subject only to Treasury regulations and orders of those above me.
I am now holding New Madrid with detachments from troops of this command, which General Curtis has assumed control over, and coolly informs me that he cannot spare them.
I would respectfully suggest that both banks of the river be under one command.
U. S. GRANT,
Major-General.
The next day, Halleck replied to Grant and ordered all available Illinois troops sent to him.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, October 27, 1862.
Major-General GRANT, Jackson, Tenn.:The Governor of Illinois has been directed to send you as many troops as possible. General Curtis is begging for re-enforcements to be sent to Helena. Be prepared to concentrate your troops in case of an attack.
For a cartel-ship to receive deserters is a violation of the laws of war.
H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief.*******************************************
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, October 27, 1862.
Major-General WRIGHT, Cincinnati, Ohio:All available troops in Illinois should be immediately sent down the Mississippi, reporting first to General Grant, at Columbus, and if not required there they will proceed to Helena.
H. W. HALLECK,
General-in-Chief.