Below, the water extended into the woods several hundred yards back from the bank on the east side.

On the west bank Fort Heiman stood on high ground, completely commanding Fort Henry.

The distance from Fort Henry to Donelson is but eleven miles.

The two positions were so important to the enemy, AS HE SAW HIS INTEREST, that it was natural to suppose that reinforcements would come from every quarter from which they could be got.

Prompt action on our part was imperative.
The plan was for the troops and gunboats to start at the same moment.
The troops were to invest the garrison and the gunboats to attack the fort at close quarters.