H. W. Halleok to Henry W. Halleck, July 2, 1862
July 2, 1862. Major-General HALLECK: As telegraphed last night, Hamilton will reach Rienzi at 8 o’clock this morning. What do you think of the propriety of posting him thus: Left division near Jacinto, covering the Marietta, Fulton, and Bay Springs roads; the right between Jacinto and Rienzi, covering Van Dorn’s old road to Booneville? From these positions there are two roads leading back to this camp, besides the Glendale, Jacinto, and Farming. ton road, which is the best for wagons. It is 6 miles only from near * See Part I, pp. 17-20. Rienzi on the railroad to Jacinto; it would therefore be easy to supply them. The water is good; the roads both south and to their rear offer many strong defensive positions. Their right flank would be secured by Asboth’s positions and the Tuscumbia Bottom, which is wide and very difficult, the Jacinto road having had nine bridges connected by a causeway to make good the road across against a demonstration. Asboth could be supported; in case of anything more serious he could be withdrawn. I shall direct Hamilton to hold his troops near Rienzi and examine the ground with a view to this movement and await your decision. W. S. ROSECRANS, Brigadier-General. PoPE’s HEADQUARTERS, July 2, 1862. Major-General HALLEOK: Colonel Sheridan’s report via Rienzi this morning confirms the repulse of a very strong cavalry force of ten regiments, names of most being given. He followed them 4 miles on the Booneville and Blackland road, along which he found many dead and wounded. Nine of our wounded have been brought to Rienzi. I have sent him a battery and two infantry companies to support it. Should like to know decision about location of the left wing, now coming from Nolin’s to Rienzi. Hamilton has arrived at Rienzi with his’staff. Will it not be better to withdraw that brigade from Hatchie Crossing ? W. S. ROSECRANS, Brigadier-General. CoRINTH, July 2, 1862. Major-General ROSECRANS: Your proposed disposition of Hamilton’s division is approved, if the roads and water prove satisfactory on examination.
H. W. HALLEOK,