We have inflicted two successive major defeats on the enemy. If we can move on Vicksburg quickly, we could capture the city in the next few days. I sent orders to Gens. McClernand and McPherson.
BLACK RIVER, MISS., May 18, 1863.
Major General John A. McClernand,
Commanding Thirteenth Army Corps:
Move your corps as early as possible, taking the direct road as far as Mount Albans. From that point reconnoiter well as you advance. If a parallel road can be found within 3 miles of the direct road, take it. No teams will be allowed to cross the river until all the troops are over, except ambulances and ammunition wagons. One brigade will be left to guard the bridge and trains, and to bring the latter over after the troops have all passed.
U. S. GRANT.
BLACK RIVER, MISS., May 18, 1863.
Major General J. B. McPHERSON, Comdg. SEVENTEENTH Army Corps:
Start your columns at the earliest practicable moment. Their road, you being in the center, will be the direct Vicksburg road.
No teams will be allowed to pass over the road until all the troops and artillery have passed, except ammunition wagons and ambulances. One brigade will be left to guard the bridge and wagon trains, and to pass the latter over as soon as all the troops are out of the way.
U. S. GRANT.
The Papers of Ulysses S Grant, Vol 8, p 235-7
O.R., I, xxiv, part 3, p 324