I was firmly of the same opinion at the time on the ground; and, an entrance effected, we could have brought the whole force on dry ground, and had a base of operations against Vicksburg--though probably, in view of later events, we would have had to stand a siege from Pemberton's army.

After explanations with Blair, I rode to where the men were, who had crossed the bayou, but had not advanced with the others.

I found them to be De Courcey's brigade; of Morgan's division, which General Sherman supposed to be in advance.

In fact, it was the intended support that made the attack.

A correspondence and controversy followed between General Blair and Colonel De Courcey, most of which I have, but nothing came of it.