In the spring of 1863, Secretary of War Stanton had been encouraging to Rosecrans, suggesting that a major-generalship in the Regular Army might be his reward for good service. But by July, Stanton had become weary of Rosecrans’ delays. The Army of the Cumberland was at full strength and receiving plenty of supplies, yet Rosecrans still held back. Three days after the Confederate defeat at Gettysburg, Stanton telegraphed Rosecrans: “Lee’s army overthrown; Grant victorious. You and your noble army now have the chance to give the finishing blow to the rebellion. Will you neglect the chance?”