Hold the Hardy house to the last possible moment.

Our whole movement pivots there, and keeping possession until we arrive is of utmost importance.

Hold it at any price.

These are Grant's orders." "Who gave you this ?--it is unsigned." "The colonel, sir, I saw him write it." "And they were ready to leave ?" "They'll not be more than an hour behind, unless something stops them--the whole brigade is coming." I comprehended now--the plan was clear-cut, easily understood.

Taking advantage of the ravine in which to conceal the movement, Grant proposed to throw a brigade, or even a greater force, suddenly upon the enemy's unprotected rear, thus crushing Johnston between two fires.