January 31, 1862-- Part 2: "Runners" for Men?

Meanwhile, Foote telegraphed the Bureau of Ordnance, requesting powder and primers.  He added:  "I am apprehensive  that the Army will not permit the men, as colonels and captains do not readily give their assent.  I am shipping men by 'runners at Chicago and elsewhere.'

"I can move with four armed [armored] and three other gunboats at any moment, and am only waiting for men (with the exception of the Benton) to be ready with all the gunboats."

The Army could not be blamed, as Foote well understood, for reluctance to weaken its units.  They, too, had been given jobs to do and had to present trained, effective units in the hour of need.

--Old B-R'er