So, what I really need to do it capture Cairo.
I've tried that unsuccessfully, and am pretty concerned about a growing Federal army in Bowling Green, Kentucky which is lead by U.S. Grant. I am trying to build a wall of defense along the Tennessee - Kentucky border because of it. So I'm hesitant to transfer too many troops west to initiate an offensive on Cairo. But, it looks like I need to take a chance here. I'm about two months ahead of the newspaper issues that I have released, so it will be at least Fall before I can do it. I may not be able to do it, I fear, before winter kicks in.
Patrick