Was there a chance that the forces might merge?
No.
Where were they located?
Between Johnston and Pemberton.
Could Pemberton have avoided them?
Yes
To do so, what time would they have needed to travel?
At night
Where would they need to cross a bridge?
Yes.
Where would they end up returning to?
Johnston
What would they have given up by doing so?
Vicksburg
What date did Sherman depart?
Around noon on the 16th.
Where did he leave from?
Jackson
Which direction did he head?
West.
Where did they stop?
Bolton
What news did he receive there?
Our victory
When did they decide to continue their travels?
Early the next day.
Who was going to meet them?
Blair
With what?
With the pontoon train.
Were they in a hurry?
Yes
Where were the prisoners pardoned?
Jackson
What time did the rear guard finally arrive?
His rear guard did not get in until two A.M. the 17th,