Adams, William Wirt (1819-1888) to Jefferson Davis
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02625 Author/Creator: Adams, William Wirt (1819-1888) Place Written: Jackson, Mississippi Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 26 June 1864 Pagination: 3 p. ; docket; 24 x 19 cm. Order a Copy
Confederate General Adams discusses a concentration of Union forces at Natchez, Vicksburg, and Memphis. Expects Davis, President of the Confederate States, to transfer troops from the Trans-Mississippi Department to Jackson, Mississippi. Discusses transporting troops across a river (possibly the Mississippi). Writes "I have ventured to make this suggestion in view of the possible contingencies of our struggle and in the hope that it may possibly assist you in the great labors... of your position."
[excerpt]
From the movements of the Enemy's forces in the Trans-Miss Dept now in progress, and their concentration at Natchez, Vicksburg & Memphis; I think it is evident his intention is to suspend all active operations West of the River, for the moment, and employ his whole force east of it … Thinking it possible in that contingency that you may desire to transfer troops from the Trans Miss Dept to this and might not be assured of its practicability, I would respectfully state that I have good reason to believe that I can readily make such arrangements as will secure the speedy & safe passage of the Miss River. Such is the universal venality of Yankee officials & traders on the River that by the judicious use of one or two hundred bales of cotton I am convinced two or more transports for this service can be secured … I have ventured to make this suggestion in view of the possible contingencies of our struggle and in the hope that it may possibly assist you in the great labors ... of your position…
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