NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 24, 1864-3 p. m.
(Received 9.50 p. m.)
Major General H. W. HALLECK,
Washington, D. C.:
On making up retorts and examining the field, I find the result of Hood’s attack on our left more disastrous to the enemy than I reported. Our loss will not foot up 2,000 killed and wounded, whereas we have found over 1,000 rebels dead, which will make with the usual proportion of wounded, a loss to the enemy of full 7,000. General Garrard has also returned, perfectly successfully, having completely destroyed the two large bridges near Covington, forty miles toward Augusta, brought in 200 prisoners and some good horses, and destroy the public stores at Covington and Conyers, including 2,000 bales of cotton, a locomotive, and a train of cars. Our communications are yet all safe, and the army in good condition in all respects. As soon as my cavalry rests I propose to swing the Army of the Tennessee round by the right rapidly and interpose between Atlanta and Macon, the only line open to the enemy.
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General.
NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 24, 1864-3 p. m.
(Received 10 p. m.)
Major General H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.:
The sudden loss of McPherson was a heavy blow to me. I can hardly replace him, but must have a successor. After thinking over the whole matter, I prefer that Major General O. O. Howard be ordered to command the Army and Department of the Tennessee. If this meets the President’s approval, notify me by telegraph, when I will put him in command, and name others to fill the vacancies created. Logan, as senior-commands the Army of the Tennessee for the present. After we have taken Atlanta I will name officers who merit promotion. In the mean time, I request that the President will not give increased rank to any officer who has gone on leave from sickness, or cause other than wounds in battle.
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General.