[Original]
“We are expecting an attack from Johnston. He has been laid up with the wound he received at Seven Pines, and has all the Mississippi forces under him,” Ralph's captain said to him. “Our line of defences is thrown out six or seven miles, so I hear,” answered Ralph. “We are well prepared for them.”
“That is true, but we may look for an attack in our rear. McClernand reports that he has taken two forts, and is in imminent danger, and sends a request for reinforcements at once.”
Ere he finished speaking, the ball was opened vigorously.
[Original]
The river heights were fortified strongly, earthworks rearing their heads for miles, bristling with guns, against which the Union army hurled its strength in vain. Grants purpose was to carry the works by storm, but though splendid courage was shown, and the color-bearers at many points reached the breastworks and planted flags upon them, they proved impregnable.