Turning to Thomas to inquire what caused the delay, I was surprised to see Thomas J.Wood, one of the division commanders who was to make the charge, standing talking to him.

I spoke to General Wood, asking him why he did not charge as ordered an hour before.

He replied very promptly that this was the first he had heard of it, but that he had been ready all day to move at a moment's notice.

I told him to make the charge at once.

He was off in a moment, and in an incredibly short time loud cheering was heard, and he and Sheridan were driving the enemy's advance before them towards Missionary Ridge.