Unknown to Henry W. Halleck, October 26, 1862
Jackson, Tenn., October 26, 1862.
General H. W. HALLEOK, Washington, D. C.:
You never have suggested to me any plan of operations in this department, and as I do not know anything of those of commanders to my right or left I have none therefore that is not independent of all other forces than those under my immediate command.
As situated now, with no more troops, I can do nothing but defend my positions, and do not feel at liberty to abandon any of them without first consulting you. I would suggest, however, the destruction of the railroads to all points of the compass from Corinth, by the removal of the rails to this place or Columbus, and the opening of the road from Humboldt to Memphis. The Corinth forces I would move to Grand Junction, and add to them the Bolivar forces except a small garrison there. With small re-enforcements at Memphis I think I would be able to move down the Mississippi Central road and cause the evacuation of Vicksburg and to be able to capture or destroy all the boats in the Yazoo River. I am ready, however, to do with all my might whatever you may direct, without criticism.
Cuar. XX1X.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.âUNION. 297
The facts are these: I gave a Mr. Farrington, an undoubted Union citizen of Memphis, permission to ship $7,000 worth of liquor to Memphis, subject to Treasury restrictions. Finding that these stores could not be got out of Saint Louis approved, Farrington asked Colonel Pride, who has never been more than a volunteer aide on my staff, to introduce him. From this has sprung the report. I would respectfully suggest that my permits be good for all articles coming into this department, subject only to Treasury regulations and orders of those above me.
I am now holding New Madrid with detachments from troops of this command, which General Curtis has assumed control over, and coolly informs me that he cannot spare them.
I would respectfully suggest that both banks of the river be under
one command. U. S. GRANT, Major-General.