[93]
Tuesday, December 27.
Waded bayou at four A. M., and marched down on north side of Tennessee, nearly opposite mouth of Flint river, and awaited orders.
The enemy shelled the transports sent to convey my command over but no casualties resulted therefrom.
Signalled General Steedman information of the enemy's strength, etc., at Decatur, obtained from Colonel Prosser.
and one of my staff officers.
Crossed the river and lagoon beyond, and halted to receive rations from the transports at four P. M., as directed by Major-General Steedman.
Soon received orders from him to move up to support Colonel Thompson's division, which had been advanced towards Decatur, and had been engaged during the afternoon in skirmishing with the enemy.
The command was brought up as rapidly as possible, and formed in line on Colonel Thompson's right.
The enemy opened fire with two pieces of artillery.
Some of the shots fell near my line, but without damage.
An advance was ordered, and both divisions moved rapidly on the town.
The enemy ran away before we reached it, taking his two pieces of artillery, and our troops occupied the place.
Marched to the woodland near Decatur, and encamped for the night.