Unknown to P. H. Watson, November 14, 1862
P. H. Watson, Esq., Assistant Secretary of War:
John Riggin, referred to in your dispatch, is my aide. He has given but one order referring to telegraphing, and that was dictated by me. It was that private dispatches might be sent over the wire before 10 a. m., when they did not interfere with military dispatches. Colonel Riggin is assigned the duty of military superintendent of telegraphs within the departmentâa position which interferes with no present arrangement, but is intended solely for my relief. Misrepresentations have been made.
U. S. GRANT. Wak DEPARTMENT, Washington, November 14, 1862. Major-General GRANT, La Grange, Tenn. :
Col. Anson Stager having been appointed by the Secretary of War superintendent of military telegraphs and of the construction and management of all military lines, Colonel Riggin must not interfere. Colonel Stager has appointed deputies believed to be competent, but if they fail in their duties a report of the fact to Colonel Stager will bring a prompt remedy.
P. H. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War.