unforth: (Default)
unforth ([personal profile] unforth) wrote2009-08-05 08:11 pm

Dispatches from the Front

My internet is down again, so I'll keep this short - more great buts from the memoir. Confederate French commands 4k to 5k men, surrounds Union Corse, commanding under 2k. Sends thus message:
"I have placed the forces under my command in such positions that you are surrounded, and to avoid a needless effusion of blood I call on you to surrender your forces at once, and unconditionally. ... I have the honor to be, very respectfully yours, S. G. French."

The reply:
"Your communication demanding surrender of my command I acknowledge receipt of, and respectfully reply that we are prepared for the 'needless effusion of blood' whenever it is agreeable to you. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, John M. Corse"

Corse ended up getting shot in the face, but he survived, and his troops forced French's withdrawl.