He had disappeared in the Southern wilderness.
But Dick understood.

He had both knowledge and intuition.

Colonel Winchester on his long and daring scout had learned that the Confederate forces in the South were scattered and their leaders in doubt.

Grant, taking a daring offensive and hiding his movements, had put them on the defensive, and there were so many points to defend that they did not know which to choose.

Joe Johnston, just recovered from his wound at Fair Oaks the year before, and a general of the first rank, was coming, but he was not yet here.
Meanwhile Pemberton held the chief command, but he seemed to lack energy and decision.