I want to get your views about what ought to be done, and what can be done.  If you capture the garrison of Savannah, it certainly will compel Lee to detach from Richmond, or give us nearly the whole South.  My own opinion is that Lee is averse to going out of Virginia, and if the cause of the South is lost he wants Richmond to be the last place surrendered.  If he has such views, it may be well to indulge him until we get every thing else in our hands.

Congratulating you and the army again upon the splendid results of your campaign, the like of which is not read of in past history, I subscribe myself, more than ever, if possible, your friend,

U. S. Grant, Lieutenant-General.

Headquarters of the army
city point, Virginia, December 26, 1864.

Major-General W. T. Sherman, Savannah, Georgia.

General:  Your very interesting letter of the 22d inst., brought by Major Grey of General Foster’s staff; is fast at hand.  As the major starts back at once, I can do no more at present than simply acknowledge its receipt.  The capture of Savannah, with all its immense stores, must tell upon the people of the South.  All well here.  Yours truly,

U. S. Grant, Lieutenant-General.

Headquarters military division of the Mississippi
Savannah, Georgia, December 24, 1864.

Lieutenant-General U. S. Grant, City Point, Virginia.

General:  Your letter of December 18th is just received.  I feel very much gratified at receiving the handsome commendation you pay my army.  I will, in general orders, convey to the officers and men the substance of your note.

I am also pleased that you have modified your former orders, for I feared that the transportation by sea would very much disturb the unity and morale of my army, now so perfect.

The occupation of Savannah, which I have heretofore reported, completes the first part of our game, and fulfills a great part of your instructions; and we are now engaged in dismantling the rebel forts which bear upon the sea-channels, and transferring the heavy ordnance and ammunition to Fort Pulaski and Hilton Head, where they can be more easily guarded than if left in the city.

The rebel inner lines are well adapted to our purpose, and with slight modifications can be held by a comparatively small force; and in about ten days I expect to be ready to sally forth again.  I feel no doubt whatever as to our future plans.  I have thought them over so long and well that they appear as clear as daylight.  I left Augusta untouched on purpose, because the enemy will be in doubt as to my objective point, after we cross the Savannah River, whether it be Augusta or Charleston, and will naturally divide his forces.  I will then move either on Branchville