he had thus far gained. Here about 4 P.M. he had a heavy engagement.
The enemy's advance with sharp artillery and musketry fire was
gallantly met and repulsed. Sherman then made preparations for
the night, posting his command to hold all positions. Howard had
reported with three regiments to him, as he crossed the bridge
which connected him with the main Army of the Cumberland. Howard
leaving these troops with Sherman, then returned to his corps.
When his command was placed on the front to Granger's left in the
afternoon, he connected with Sherman's right. Here Sherman rested
all night, and about midnight received orders from Grant to "attack
the enemy at dawn of day," "that General Thomas would attack in
force early in the day."

While the main attack was progressing under Sherman on the left,
Hooker on the right had been pressing the enemy. On the 23d,
Osterhaus, finding that he could not cross the Tennessee in time
to engage in the movement with Sherman, reported with his division
to Hooker, who was then ordered to take these troops, with Geary's
division and Whittaker's and Grose's brigades of the First Division
of the Fourth Corps under Cruft, and make a strong demonstration on
the northern slope of Lookout Mountain, drawing Bragg's attention
to this point and away from Sherman while crossing the river and
getting into position. Thomas instructed Hooker if he found he
was able to carry the enemy's position here, to do so.

At 4 A.M. of the 24th, Hooker reported his troops in readiness
to begin the movement. As he advanced he found Lookout Creek so
swollen with recent rains that he could not cross without building
a temporary bridge at the main road. He then sent Geary with two
divisions and Whitaker's brigade of Cruft's command up the creek