...the less exposed parts of the line, or in reserve, until they had steadied themselves; that Vicksburg was strong and could not be carried by assault; and that Mr. Davis had telegraphed to him to hold Vicksburg at all hazard, adding that if besieged he would be relieved. To all of which General Pemberton replied that my youth and hopes were the parents of my judgment; he himself did not believe our troo...