[557]Telegram.
Am here on my way; coming as fast as I can.W. H. C. Whiting, Major-Genl.
Telegram.
Advance a brigade and battery half-way between your lines and Swift Creek to meet us. Will leave Swift Creek, via Pike, at 12 M.
Telegram.
I merely wish to explain my position and condition. Propose leaving to-day, about noon, with part of Colquitt's and Corse's brigades, which arrived yesterday. Martin's and Wise's remain here. Light batteries will follow, as soon as practicable, after arriving.
Telegram.
An order from Secretary of War has just been sent to you by a courier extending your command to include the south side of James River, including Drury's Bluff and its defences.T. Rowland, A. A. G.
Telegram.
You are assigned to the command south of the James River. It is also expected that you will meet any sudden move of the enemy against the city on the north side. Should they cross the river below you I shall immediately send you all the assistance in our power, and you will take the offensive at once. We can draw nothing from above, and our information is that reinforcements will reach the enemy in your front. If you can dislodge him from the Petersburg road, some additional force may reach you from there. The cavalry should certainly come through. Our communications must be restored.
My dear General,—* * * Your impression is undoubtedly correct that you sent me, on the day prior to your engagement at Drury's Bluff, to General Whiting with a copy of your order of battle and special written instructions to him to advance directly towards Drury's Bluff and attack Butler, while you were attacking him in front. I recollect distinctly your emphasizing verbally to me your instructions that he was to march towards the sound of your guns and attack whatever forces he might meet, without regard to their numbers.
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