I see no prospect of the former, and there are many great, if not insuperable obstacles in the way of the latter.

You are, therefore, requested to inform me with as little delay as possible, as to the condition of your troops and their ability to make the marches and undergo the fatigues necessary to accomplish a successful evacuation." Two of his generals suggested surrender, and the other two practically did the same.

They expressed the opinion that an attempt to evacuate would fail.

Pemberton had previously got a message to Johnston suggesting that he should try to negotiate with me for a release of the garrison with their arms.

Johnston replied that it would be a confession of weakness for him to do so; but he authorized Pemberton to use his name in making such an arrangement.
On the 3d about ten o'clock A.M.white flags appeared on a portion of the rebel works.