Sherman, commanding an expeditionary Army, writes to Colonel Hammond as his forces approach Jackson, Mississippi. Possibly referring to Generals John Grubb Parke (Union) and Frederick Steele, writes "Your note is received I dont want Parke to keep a line connected with Steele or Pearl River. I want him to move up as close to the parapet as possible and hold it in force with a line of pickets connecting with Steele. All operations to the left to be made by Detachments sent for a special purpose. We must hook up that RRoad & telegraph at once- next operate against the Railroad across the River- break... any temporary bridge erected since we were here- to this End I want a daring Reconnaissance to the left. The Enemy is and will be sensitive on that point. Tell Genl Parke that General Steele will extend his line of pickets..." Mentions Colonel [Russing?].