Sherman reached Chattanooga on the evening of the
15th, and with Grant inspected the field on the 16th. Sherman's army,
holding the left, was to cross to the south side of the river and assail
Missionary Ridge. Hooker, on the right, was to press through from
Lookout valley into Chattanooga valley. Thomas, in the centre, was to
press forward through the valley and strike the enemy's centre while
his wings were thus fully engaged, or as soon as Hooker's support was
available.

The battle began on the afternoon of October 23. Orchard Knob, in the
centre of the great amphitheatre, was attacked and captured, and became
the Union headquarters. On the 24th Sherman crossed the river and
established his army, on the north end of Missionary Ridge. On the
morning of the same day Hooker assailed Lookout Mountain, and after a
long climbing fight, lasting far into the night, secured his position;
and the enemy, who had occupied the mountain, retreated across the
valley at its upper end to Missionary Ridge. Grant's forces were now in
touch from right to left. Everything so far had gone well.

Early on the next morning Sherman opened the attack. The ridge in his
front was exceedingly favorable for defense, and during the whole night
the enemy had been at work strengthening the position. Sherman's first
assault failed, but he continued pressing the enemy with resolution,
although making little progress. From Grant's place on Orchard Knob he
watched the struggle. At three o'clock he saw Sherman's right repulsed.
Then he gave to Thomas, standing at his side, the order to advance. Six
guns were fired as a signal, and the Army of the Cumberland moved
forward in splendid array to avenge Chickamauga. The immediate purpose
was to carry the rebel rifle pits at the foot of the Ridge. This done,
the soldiers were subjected to a galling fire from the line 800 feet
above them. As by inspiration, they rushed on, climbing as they could,
by aid of rocks and bushes, and using their guns as staves. They reached
the crest and swept it in a mighty fury. It was the decisive action. All
the columns now converged on the distracted foe who fled before them.
Grant galloped to the front with all speed, urging on the pursuit and
exposing himself to every hazard of the fight.

So Chattanooga was added to Grant's lengthening score of brilliant
victories; and again, as at Donelson and at Vicksburg, he had been the
instrument of relieving a tense oppression of anx