Grant had Thomas and engineer William F. Smith prepare an assault plan, but he refused to finalize it until Sherman arrived and inspected the terrain. Sherman initially believed the assigned position could be taken quickly, although his later attacks would prove much less decisive than that confidence suggested. His veteran corps joined Hooker's reinforcements and the Army of the Cumberland around Chattanooga. Bragg's passive siege and divided headquarters had given the Union enough time to assemble this concentration.
Chapter · 52:19-55:00
Sherman's arrival completed Grant's concentration
Grant waited for Sherman to inspect the ground before confirming the assault plan, bringing another veteran corps and senior commander into the converging Union force.