The letter was not a reprimand in direct terms, but it was evidently as much felt as though it had been one.

General Johnston raised another army as rapidly as he could, and fortified or strongly intrenched at Corinth.

He knew the National troops were preparing to attack him in his chosen position.
But he had evidently become so disturbed at the results of his operations that he resolved to strike out in an offensive campaign which would restore all that was lost, and if successful accomplish still more.

We have the authority of his son and biographer for saying that his plan was to attack the forces at Shiloh and crush them; then to cross the Tennessee and destroy the army of Buell, and push the war across the Ohio River.

The design was a bold one; but we have the same authority for saying that in the execution Johnston showed vacillation and indecision.