William T. Sherman to Cuar. Xxix.] Correspondence, Etc.union. 201, September 4, 1862
Memphis, Tenn., September 4, 1862.
Col. J. CO. KELTON, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Headquarters of the Army:
DEAR COLONEL: Please acknowledge to the major-general commanding the receipt by me of his letter, and convey to him my assurances that I promptly modified my first instructions about cotton so as to conform to his orders. Trade in cotton is now free, but in all else I endeavor so to control it that the enemy shall receive no contraband goods or any aid and comfort. Still I feel sure that the officers of steamboats are sadly tempted by high prices to land salt and other prohibited articles at way points along the river. This, too, in time will be checked.
All seems well here and hereabouts. No large body of the enemy within striking distance. A force of about 2,000 cavalry passed through Grand Junction north last Friday, and fell on a detachment of the Bolivar army at Middleburg, the result of which is doubtless reported to you. As soon as I heard of the movement I dispatched a force to the southeast, by way of diversion, and am satisfied that the enemyâs infantry and artillery fell back in consequence behind the Tallahatchie.
Weather is very hot, country very dry, and dust as bad as possible. I hold my two divisions ready with original complement of transportation for field service. Of course all things must now depend on events in front of Washington and in Kentucky.
The gunboat Eastport and four transports, loaded with prisoners of war, destined for Vicksburg, have been lying before Memphis for two days, but are now steaming up to resume their voyage.
Our fort progresses well, but our guns are not yet mounted. The engineers are now shaping the banquette to receive platforms. I expect Captain Prime from Corinth in two or three days.
with great respect,
Major-General.
Cuar. XXIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.âUNION. 201