This opened the way up the Tennessee River to a position on the flank of Columbus, Kentucky, and was followed by the evacuation of that point.
I was in St.Louis on the day the news of the fall of Fort Henry was received.

The newspapers issued "extras," with astonishing head-lines.
It was the first gratifying intelligence after a long winter of inactivity, following a year which, closed with general reverses to our arms.
In walking the principal streets of St.Louis on that occasion, I could easily distinguish the loyal men of my acquaintance from the disloyal, at half a square's distance.

The former were excited with delight; the latter were downcast with sorrow.

The Union men walked rapidly, with, faces "wreathed in smiles;" the Secessionists moved with alternate slow and quick steps, while their countenances expressed all the sad emotions.
The newsboys with the tidings of our success were patronized by the one and repelled by the other.

I saw one of the venders of intelligence enter the store of a noted Secessionist, where he shouted the nature of the news at the highest note of his voice.