Adam Badeau, Military history of Ulysses S. Grant from April 1861 to April 1865. Volume 1

‘ [279] ferries, might reach Vicksburg almost simultaneously with myself, or perhaps interpose a heavy force between me and that city. I myself proceeded at once to Vicksburg to prepare for its defence.’ Grant, indeed, could have gone into Vicksburg, that night, if the bridges had not been destroyed. The battle of Black river bridge was over by ten o'clock in the morning. Lawler had received no orders to make his gallant charge; he and his men deserve all the credit of its success.¹ Of course, it greatly facilitated the advance of the national army, entirely uncovering every road to Vicksburg.

Grant at once directed the construction of bridges, for at this place the Big Black is wide and deep, and the rebels had secured at least twelve hours advance, by the destruction of the crossing. He also ordered all the cavalry at his disposal to move out as far as Brownsville, and ascertain if possible the position and intentions of Johnston. During the day, he sent word to Sherman: ‘Secure a commanding position on the west bank of Black river, as soon as you can. If the information you gain after crossing warrants you in believing you can go immediately into the city, do so. If there is any doubt in this matter, throw out troops to the left, after advancing on a line with the railroad bridge, to open your communications with the troops here. We will then move in three columns, if roads can be found to move on, and either have Vicksburg or Haine's bluff to-morrow night. The enemy have been so terribly beaten yesterday and to-day, that I cannot believe that a stand ’