HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
In the Field, three miles from Railroad Bridge,
July 5, 1864-8 p.m.
Major-General McPHERSON:
GENERAL: I have ordered Schofield over to this road, in rear of the center, preparatory to moving him over to about the mouth of Rottenwood or Roswell Factory according to reports I may receive from General Garrard. I was in hopes you would get control of the ridge commanding Turner’s Ferry before the enemy could get across, but I think it is now too late unless you have gained the ridge described as lying along the Chattahoochee above the mouth of Nickajack. Do not attempt it except it be certain of success or unless you know that some part of Johnston’s army or material is not yet across. My information is that Hood’s and Polk corps are across and that Hardee remains on this side occupying a line of intrenchments from the bridge down to Nickajack. I rather think that the enemy will preserve this order of things until we develop our game. Stoneman will continue to threaten the river between Nickajack and Sweet Water, and you may co-operate and again any substantial advantage you can, but be prepared to move wherever events may call. Hooker should be up nearer to Palmer. Howard’s left is on the Chattahoochee about Pace’s Ferry, where the enemy had a pontoon bridge, which is cut loose and is swung to their bank. I understand he has two pontoon bridges at the railroad bridge. That bridge is still good, and was being very actively used to-day in passing trains. We have the road to within about two miles of the bridge, including Vining’s Station, where Johnston was last night.
I am, &c.,
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General, Commanding.