CHAPTER XXXI.

BATTLE OF CHICKAMAUGA.

Tactical Features--The Battle opened by Direct Attack on the Federals in the Early Morning of September 20--Repeated and Determined Front Assaults--Brigadiers Helm killed and Adams wounded--The Union Commands lay behind Defences--Hood's Brigades surged through the Forest against the Covered Infantry and Artillery--Hood wounded--Longstreet suggests a Plan for Progressive Action--Halting Tactics at High Tide of Success-- The Confederate Left fought a Separate Battle--General Thomas retreats--First Confederate Victory in the West, and one of the Bloodiest Battles of the War--Forces engaged--Losses 445