Steele, Frederick (1819-1868) to Ulysses S. Grant
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03834 Author/Creator: Steele, Frederick (1819-1868) Place Written: Little Rock, Arkansas Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 10 March 1864 Pagination: 2 p. ; 25.3 x 19.7 cm. Order a Copy
Steele, commander of the Department of Arkansas, writes to Lieutenant General Grant, commander of the Military Division of the Mississippi (just before Grant became commander-in-chief of the United States Army). Corresponded with Generals William Sherman and Nathaniel Banks regarding an expedition against Shreveport, Louisiana. Remarks, "they are both mistaken in regard to the strength of my command and also in regard to the situation of affairs in my Dept." Intends to transmit copies of his correspondence with Banks. Declares, "The forces under Banks will make Kirby Smith run without a battle. From what I can learn through people returning to their houses within my lines, Kirby & all his friends are prepared to leave for parts unknown. I shall move by way of Washington with all my available force to cooperate with Banks." Notes that he cannot spare more than 7000 arms, and expects Holmes (possibly General Theophilus Holmes) to raid the rear of his army. Contains a War Records "Copied" stamp.
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