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138 Series I Volume XXIV-III Serial 38 - Vicksburg Part III

Page 138 Mississippi, WEST TENNESSEE, ETC. Chapter XXXVI.

cause of his neglect to comply with the order in relation to the Seventh Kansas. I have directed him to report on this subject, which he has not yet done. I am unofficially informed that he received the order, and stated that it was one that it was one that should not be issued, and which he would not execute. I have sent for the proofs, and, if it be so, I shall arrest him and forward him to Vicksburg for trial.

I have trouble enough without bothering my soul on questions of rank on telegraphic information of outside people. Until I learn by authority that I am superseded, I shall act under orders already received and known to be valid.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. A. HURLBUT.

[Sub-Inclosure Numbers 1.]

LA GRANGE [March 11, 1863?]

Major-General HURLBUT:

I am authoritatively advised from Washington of my confirmation as major-general, to rank from September 19, 1862. Will you please advise me of date from which you are confirmed?

C. S. HAMILTON.

[Sub-Inclosure Numbers 2.]

HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis, Tenn., March 11, 1863.

Major General C. S. HAMILTON, La Grange:

As I cannot perceive any advantage to the public service, I decline furnishing the information desired.

I command the SIXTEENTH Army Corps by orders from the President.

S. A. HURLBUT.

[Sub-Inclosure Numbers 3.]

LA GRANGE, [March 11, 1863?]

General HURLBUT:

I have no intention to deprive you of the command of the SIXTEENTH Army Corps, but if I am the senior officer, it becomes my duty to assume command of the District of WEST Tennessee, of which I will give you due notice.

C. S. HAMILTON.

[Sub-Inclosure Numbers 4.]

HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis, Tenn., March 11, 1863.

Major General C. S. HAMILTON, La Grange, Tenn.:

I refer you to Special Orders, Numbers 30, Department of the Tennessee, February 7, 1863, and to paragraph of Army Regulations. No question of seniority can arise until commissions come. I warn you very frankly, if you attempt to exercise independent authority, you will at once be arrested and sent to Vicksburg.

S. A. HURLBUT.

[Inclosure Numbers 2.]

LA GRANGE, March 15, 1863.

General U. S. GRANT:

DEAR GENERAL: I do not know whether Hurlbut has furnished you with the information received from time to time through Dodge's and


Page 138 Mississippi, WEST TENNESSEE, ETC. Chapter XXXVI.