Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 09.djvu/64

Rh accompanied him on the march, and on the field, and that in compliance with his request he had noted the course of events, and that he is certain that my name, or that of my division was never mentioned by General Johnston in connection with the delay in the march to the position where the line of battle was established preliminary to the battle of Shiloh, on the 5th day of April, 1862." Reference is here made to General William Preston.

I repeat the inquiry—is Ruggles's answer sufficient?

In recurring to Colonel Johnston's narrative we find the additional statement that "his orders (Polk's) were to wait for the passage of Bragg's corps, and to move and form his line in rear of Ruggles's division, which composed Bragg's left wing." *  *   *  "He could not advance or establish his line until this had passed."

"There was doubtless some confusion or mistake of orders in Ruggles's division."

This assumption is entirely unfounded, as the position of my division was in strict conformity with Bragg's orders.

To present the military status at the moment above noted, in the clearest light, I will refer, briefly, to some incidents connected with the previous march.

Attention is invited to the following correspondence connected with the commencement of the march.

", "Army of the Mississippi, "Corinth, April 3d, 1862.

"Major Garner,—I desire to be informed if, by the terms 'entire division,' the first brigade in advance is included, and that the preparation for the morning *   *   *  will include that brigade.

"Very respectfully, "Your obedient servant, "(Signed),, Brigadier General, "Confederate States Army, Commanding Division."

"Note.—Ketchum's battery, belonging to the Second brigade, is with the advance, and Bains's is not ready for field service. ", "Brigadier General."

This letter was written and sent at about 3 o'clock, A. M., April 3d,