154 The Mississippi Valley in the Civil War

loyal states were for a moment invaded by theenemy, there was one point where the Union linedid not fall back, but every inch of ground onceconquered was firmly held. That point wasCorinth, where Grant remained in command.Grant had so many miles of railroad to guard, andhis force was so much weakened by sending troopsto aid Buell, that it was impossible for him toundertake any extensive operations. His firstactive movement was to send Rosecrans with 9000men and Ord with 8000 to attack Sterling Price ,who was isolated with 14,000 men at the village ofBattle of Iuka, twenty miles southeast of Cor-

luka. inth. They were to attack him on

opposite sides and crush him between them, but asoften happens with such schemes, there was a lackof coordination in the movements. The battle wasprematurely fought between Price and Rosecrans,and although Price retired from the field withheavy loss, he made good his escape and succeededin joining his forces to those of Van Dorn. Itcould hardly be called a victory for the Federals.

With his army thus concentrated, Van Dornnow resolved to inflict such a blow upon Grant aswould compel him to retire down the Tennessee river. His plan was bold but well-considered.Grant’s forces were small for the extent of countryhe was directed to occupy. He had 7000 men at