Stan, much of the infantry did escape on the last day of fighting, then were ordered to return. They believed they were going to continue to fight right up until their command surrendered them. Forrest attended the officers' meeting and learned about the surrender and as was characteristic of him, protested in blunt language. He took his cavalry with him in the wee hours of the morning, crossing the river in bitter cold weather.

Sun up was a big surprise and bitter disappointment for the remaining troops.