March 20, 1863-- Part 2: Farragut to Help Grant and Porter

Porter replied to Farragut:  "I would not attempt to run the batteries at Vicksburg if I were you; it won't pay, and you can be of no service up here at this moment.

"Your services at Red River will be a godsend; it is worth to us the loss of the [USS] Mississippi at this moment and it is the severest blow that could be struck at the South.  They obtain all their supplies and ammunition in that way."

Grant floated a coal barge down the river to Farragut, who steamed above Warrenton to meet this vital cargo.

Porter was referring to the loss of the USS Mississippi on March 14, 1863, during operations against Port Hudson.

--Old B-R'er