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[198] the Arkansas could not follow her. The Arkansas was injured also and her brave captain was twice wounded; but, not being disabled, she steamed on and out into the Mississippi, driving the Tyler and the Queen before her. A few miles above Vicksburg the Arkansas ran into the midst of the Federal fleet. She steamed slowly through the maze of hostile vessels, and the tempest of broadsides, returning them with the utmost steadiness, until she was safely lodged under the guns of Vicksburg. but the day's events were not ended. In the dusk of evening, all of Farragut's fleet accompanied by the ram Sumter stole down the river to finish the plucky Arkansas. but she changed her position as soon as it was dark and the Union vessels had difficulty in finding her. They came down the river amid the roar of cannon, but only one 11-inch shot struck her as the fleet went by, and down the river, and the broadsides from the Arkansas killed five and wounded sixteen of the Union crews. None of Farragut's fleet was ever seen above Vicksburg again. It returned to New Orleans, July 24th. the Arkansas had another fight for her life on July 22d. Commander William D. Porter with the Essex, aided by the Queen of the West, made the attack. The crew of the Arkansas had been reduced by half, but the remainder fought savagely and saved their vessel from destruction. the month of July had not been favorable to the Federal hopes. Farragut had returned to New Orleans. General Williams had gone with him as far as Baton Rouge. Davis now went with his fleet back to Helena. Halleck was succeeded by Grant. Vicksburg entered upon a period of quiet. but this condition was temporary. The city's experience of blood and fire had only begun. During the summer and autumn of 1862, the one thought uppermost in the mind of General Grant was how to gain possession of the stronghold. He was already becoming known for his bull-dog tenacity. In the autumn, two important changes took place, but one day apart. On October 14th, General John C. Pemberton
Review of Reviews. New York. 1912.
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