Dear Bill,

I've read, though I can't remember where, that Van Dorn was involved in the early power struggles for rank and command in Virginia. At his own choice or the choice of others, he was transferred to A.S. Johnston's command in the West. Apparently, he was given a choice to remain immediately under Johnston's command (Army of Mississippi) or go to the Trans-Mississippi and have a more independent command and that he chose the latter.

Is this correct?

Jim