HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
In the Field, July 9, 1864.
General McPHERSON,
Army of the Tennessee:
GENERAL: We now have a good lodgment on the other bank of the river, Schofield at the mouth of Soap Creek and Garrard opposite Roswell. I saw General Dodge to-day en route for Roswell and explained to him the importance of the place, and he understands it fully. He and Garrard can hold it secure whilst we maneuver a little more on our right and give time to collect stores at Marietta, and for Rousseau to get a good offing. We noticed a good deal of flutter in the enemy’s camps to-day, troops and wagons moving rapidly east and north. Johnston sees I threaten Decatur and Stone Mountain, and now is a good time for Stoneman to strike south. I want him if possible to secure a point at Campbellton or below, and strike the West Point road. I do believe he can do it, for Johnston will spread his force so much that it will be weak at all points. I have told Stoneman that if he secures both banks at Campbellton, with its ferry-boats, he may call on you for a brigade to hold it whilst he strikes the railroad. Of course we do not intend to attack the tete-de-pont of the enemy, and unless Johnston supposes I have scattered my force too much he will not venture to sally, and if he does our position is as strong against him as his against us, and I have no apprehensions on that score; therefore, if Stoneman calls for a brigade send it. Keep hammering away all the time, and the moment he lets go of this bank occupy it; but if he holds on, as soon as the time comes we will let him stay on this side and we will go over. With Thomas things are in status quo. Railroad and telegraph all right.
Yours,
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General, Commanding.