Accordingly six more steamers were protected as before, to run the batteries, and were loaded with supplies.

They took twelve barges in tow, loaded also with rations.

On the night of the 22d of April they ran the batteries, five getting through more or less disabled while one was sunk.

About half the barges got through with their needed freight.
When it was first proposed to run the blockade at Vicksburg with river steamers there were but two captains or masters who were willing to accompany their vessels, and but one crew.

Volunteers were called for from the army, men who had had experience in any capacity in navigating the western rivers.