McClernand's Expedition Page 37

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE TENNESSEE,
Oxford, Miss., December 18, 1862.
Major General JOHN A. McCLERNAND:
GENERAL: I have been directed this moment by telegram from the General-in-Chief of Army to divide the forces of this department into four army corps, one of which is to be commanded by yourself, and that to form a part of the expedition on Vicksburg.*
I have draughted the order and will forward it to you as soon
as printed. The division now commanded by Brigadier General
George W. Morgan and Brigadier General A. J. Smith will
compose all of it that will accompany you on the expedition,
and the divisions of Brigadier General F. Steele and
Brigadier General M. L. Smith will accompany you, and will
be commanded directly by Major General W. T. Sherman, who
will command the army corps of which they are a part. Written
and verbal instructions have been given General Sherman, which
will be turned over to you on your arrival at Memphis.
I hope you will find all the preliminary preparations completed on your arrival and the expedition ready to move.
I will co-operate with the river expedition from here,
commanding this portion of the army in person.
Major-General Hurlbut will have command of the Third Army
Corps, most of which is here with me. He will therefore be
directed to report immediately to these headquarters for
orders.
The instructions now with General Sherman provide for the
garrison of Memphis, and forms part of the Second Army Corps.
The District of Columbus is attached to your command, but for
the present will report direct to these headquarters and will
receive orders direct also.
It is desirable that there should be no delay in starting. If
unforeseen obstacles should be in your way, however, inform me
of it by messengers to Columbus and by telegraph from there.
Also send me a field return of your entire command - that is,
of the river expedition - before starting.
U. S. GRANT,
Major-General.