William A. Crafts, Life of Ulysses S. Grant: His Boyhood, Campaigns, and Services, Military and Civil.

[50] though nominally second in command, was practically ignored, and placed in a very awkward and unpleasant position. The misrepresentations of jealousy and ignorance had their effect upon Halleck, and he seemed to believe that Grant had hopelessly failed at Shiloh.¹ The latter was not consulted, and orders were issued by Halleck direct to the corps commanders, instead of being sent through Grant. The spade and pick were now brought into requisition, as if in contrast to the only omission of Grant in taking position at Pittsburg Landing. For weeks the grand army under Halleck was throwing up breastworks, advancing a short distance and again throwing up breastworks, till it had dug its way almost into Corinth, advancing fifteen miles in six weeks. The rebels meanwhile were equally busy in erecting defences at Corinth.

To some able officers, and among them General Grant, it appeared that there was a surer and quicker way of carrying the rebel position, and defeating the rebel army before it escaped. But when Grant ventured to suggest it, Halleck scouted it in an insulting manner. Grant had hitherto borne his disagreeable position with patience and entire subordination, as became a good soldier and a patriotic, unselfish man, trusting that time would bring all things right. But this indignity was almost past bearing. He felt it keenly, and was much depressed; but he showed no insubordination, made no complaints, and sought no sympathy from his fellow-officers,