Grant telegraphed Halleck that he scarcely expected an attack but would be prepared if one came. Read literally, the message reassured his superior while presenting the Confederate threat as unlikely. Halleck had repeatedly tried to remove Grant, and Grant had reason not to invite him down to take command. Deliberate understatement remains a possible interpretation rather than proof, so one official message cannot settle Shiloh's readiness debate.
Notable Point · 46:30-48:16
Grant's telegram does not settle the readiness debate
Grant told Halleck that an attack seemed unlikely but that he was prepared, a message that needs caution because their command relationship was deeply strained.