Henry W. Halleck to E, M. Stanton, June 30, 1862

Hon. E, M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Your telegram of the 28th is just received, but it is so imperfect that parts of it cannot be deciphered till repeated. The object, however, fs understood, and measures will be immediately taken to carry it out. The condition of the river and railroads in Tennessee and the want of rolling-stock will render the movement very slow. Cavalry cannot be sent, and it will be exceedingly difficult to transport artillery with horses and guns. If artillerymen are sent can they be supplied with horses and guns there, or shall I send infantry only? I think under the circumstances the Chattanooga expedition had better be abandoned, or, at least, be diminished; if not, I doubt our ability to hold West Tennessee after detaching so large a force as that called for. I will telegraph more in detail as soon as your telegram is repeated, as I cannot understand parts of it.

H. W. HALLECK,