The order had not been heard of by me, and certainly not by troops outside of McClernand's command until brought in this way.

I at once wrote to McClernand, directing him to send me a copy of this order.

He did so, and I at once relieved him from the command of the 13th army corps and ordered him back to Springfield, Illinois.

The publication of his order in the press was in violation of War Department orders and also of mine..