Collected Works of Abraham Lincoln. Volume 6 [Dec. 13, 1862-Nov. 3, 1863].

Annotation

[1]   ALS, RPB. Rosecrans' telegram from Chattanooga, Tennessee, 5 P.M., September 20, is as follows:

``We have met with a serious disaster, extent not yet ascertained. Enemy overwhelmed us, drove our right, pierced our centre, and scattered them. Thomas who had seven divisions remained intact at last news. [Gordon] Granger with two brigades had gone to support Thomas on the left. Every available reserve was used. . . . Burnside will be notified the state of things at once and you will be informed. Troops from Charleston, Florida, Virginia and all along the seaboard are found among the prisoners. It seems that every available man was thrown against us.'' (DLC-RTL).

His telegram of 9 A.M., September 21, is as follows:

``After two days of the severest fighting I ever witnessed our right and centre were beaten. The left held its position until sunset. Our loss is heavy and our troops worn down. The Enemy received heavy reinforcements Saturday night. Every man of ours was in action Sunday & all but one Brigade on Saturday. Our wounded large compared with the killed. We took prisoners from two divisions of Longstreet. We have no certainty of holding our position here. If Burnside could come immediately it would be well, otherwise he may not be able to join us unless he comes on west side of river.'' (DLC-RTL).

He replied to Lincoln's telegram at 5:40 P.M.:

``Have dispatched daily (Mr. [Charles A.] Dana oftener) to the War Department. I trust you will receive those dispatches. We are now in Chattanooga in line of battle, the enemy threatening our whole front; have pushed to our picket line. Whether they will attack to-day uncertain. General Burnside will be too late to help us. We are about 30,000 brave and determined men; but our fate is in the hands of God, in whom I hope.'' (OR, I, XXX, I, 161).