After we had marched some distance, _and were getting nearer to the sound of musketry continually_, we were met, I think, by Major Rawlins, Assistant Adjutant General of General Grant, and our direction changed. From my knowledge of the country, after the battle of Monday, I am satisfied that, if we had not changed our direction when we did, we would have gone in behind the left of the rebel army. After the direction of the column was changed, I was ordered by Colonel Thayer to go to the foot of the column, for what purpose I cannot now recollect. I think it was at the instance of General Wallace, to change direction on a shorter route of Wood's brigade, and when going from the foot of the column to the head, to report to my commanding officer, Colonel Thayer. I remember noticing all _three_ of the _Brigades_ in _close column, marching rapidly forward_. Just at dusk we arrived at the valley of a small stream, where the mud was very deep. We met an orderly, there, from the battle-field, who said we could reach General Grant's forces by making great haste, as Berdan's Sharp-shooters were holding the road by which we were to enter. _The column was hurried forward as fast as it was possible for it to move_. We arrived a little after dark, on the right of General Grant's forces, but a few yards in front of the enemy. Not knowing for what particular purpose you wish this communication, I have been precise in details as to time, etc., as it will be remembered by most of the officers of the Second Brigade. I am, sir, your obedient servant, J.A. STRICKLAND, Colonel Commanding Fiftieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. General McGinnis to General Wallace: INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana, February 21, 1868. GENERAL: In reply to your note of this date, I would say, that being in command of the Eleventh Indiana Infantry, I was attached to the First Brigade, Third Division, Army of the Tennessee, commanded by you, and encamped at Crump's Landing, on the morning of the first day of the battle of Pittsburg Landing. At daylight of said day, our command was aroused by heavy and continuous firing from the direction of Pittsburg Landing, which led us to believe that a general battle was being fought. I do not think more than twenty minutes had elapsed from the time that the battle commenced until our whole brigade had received orders to hold ourselves in readiness, (with three days' rations) to march to any point required; and that point all understood from indications would be Pittsburg Landing.