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his communications with
General Jones at
Pocotaligo; explained his views as to the best method of obstructing, by means of trees and torpedoes, the creeks east of Screven's Ferry; and recommended, at places which he designated, the construction of riflepits and batteries for field-pieces.
He also made it clear that, in case it became necessary to abandon
Savannah, the river should be obstructed as far down as possible, in order to protect the country and railroad from
Charleston to
Augusta, and place either or both beyond the reach of a flank attack.
On the 16th, at 8 A. M., in answer to
General Hardee's telegram of 3.30 P. M. of the previous day, he stated that he must be where most urgently called; that each officer should now bear his own responsibility and do for the best.
He promised, however, to leave that day for
General Jones's headquarters, and immediately afterwards for
Savannah—which he did, reaching the latter place at eleven o'clock at night.
The next day (the 17th) was an eventful day for
Savannah.
General Sherman, elated by the success of his march through
Georgia, addressed the following communication to
General Hardee:
General,—You have doubtless observed from your status at Roseden that sea-going vessels now come through
Ossabaw Sound and up
Ogeechee to the rear of my army, giving me abundant supplies of all kinds, and more especially heavy ordnance, necessary to the reduction of
Savannah.
I have already received guns that can cast heavy and destructive shot as far as the heart of the city.
Also, I have for some days held and controlled every avenue by which the people and garrison of
Savannah can be supplied.
I am therefore justified in demanding the surrender of
Savannah and its dependent forts, and shall wait a reasonable time your answer before opening with heavy ordnance.
Should you entertain the proposition, I am prepared to grant liberal terms to the inhabitants and garrison.
But should I be forced to resort to assault, or to the slower and surer process of starvation, I shall then feel justified in resorting to the harshest measures, and shall make little effort to restrain my army, burning to avenge a great national wrong they attach to
Savannah and other large cities which have been so prominent in dragging our country into civil war. I enclose you a copy of
General Hood's demand for the surrender of the town of
Resaca, Ga., to be used by you for what it is worth.
1
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,