The enemy, however, had taken the initiative.

Just as I landed I met Captain Hillyer of my staff, white with fear, not for his personal safety, but for the safety of the National troops.

He said the enemy had come out of his lines in full force and attacked and scattered McClernand's division, which was in full retreat.

The roads, as I have said, were unfit for making fast time, but I got to my command as soon as possible.

The attack had been made on the National right.