May 12, 1862 (Monday): Halleck Reigns In Grant

General Henry Halleck

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Monterey, May 12, 1862.

Major-General GRANT,
Commanding, &c.:
    GENERAL: Your position, as second in command of the entire forces here in the field, rendered it proper that you should be relieved from the direct charge of either the right wing or the reserve, both of which are mainly composed of your forces. Orders for movements in the field will be sent direct from these headquarters to commanders of army corps, divisions, brigades, or even regiments, if deemed necessary, and you will have no more cause of complaint on that score than others have.
    I am very much surprised, general, that you should find any cause of complaint in the recent assignment of commands. You have precisely the position to which your rank entitles you. Had I given you the right wing or reserve only it would have been a reduction rather than increase of command, and I could not give you both without placing you in the position you now occupy.
    You certainly will not suspect me of any intention to injure your feelings or reputation or to do you any injustice; if so, you will eventually change your mind on this subject. For the last three months I have done everything in my power to ward off the attacks which were made upon you. If you believe me your friend you will not require explanations; if not, explanations on my part would be of little avail.
    Very respectfully, your obedient servant,


   H. W. HALLECK,
   Major-General.

Official Records, Series I., Vol. 10, Part 2, Page 183.

After Shiloh Halleck chose to limit Grant's role.  While Grant had permitted his troops to be surprised on the opening day at Shiloh, he increased his popularity with the administration as a result of his victory there.  It is not surprising Halleck would perhaps be jealous of the attention shown Grant at a time where the press and politicians took scant notice of his own efforts.