Grant, Ulysses S. (Ulysses Simpson), 1822-1885 to William Tecumseh Sherman

General Grant, leading operations against Vicksburg, writes to General Sherman the day following the Battle of Champion Hill, and the same day as the Battle of Big Black River Bridge, both Union victories. Informs Sherman, commander of the 15th corps, Army of the Tennessee, "Our bridges here will not be ready to cross before daylight in the morning. Secure a commanding position on the West bank of Black River as soon as you can. If the information you gain after crossing warrants you in believing that you can go immediately into the city do so. If there is any doubt in this matter throw out troops to the left after advancing on to a line with the railroad bridge to open communications with the troops here. We will then move in thru Columns, if roads can be found to move on, and either have Vicksburg or Harris Bluff tomorrow night." Referring to Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston, he states "The enemy have been so terribly beaten yesterday and today that I cannot believe that a stand will be made unless the troops are relying on Johnston arriving with large reinforcement; not that Johnston would attempt to reinforce with anything at his command if he was at all informed of the present condition of things." Written from Headquarters, Department of the Tennessee.