In the heat of battle, after the general was reported dead, Major Samuel D. Sturgis took charge of what had become a defensive operation. Because the enemy had pulled back their troops, he had time to assess the situation. Federals still held the high ground, but the troops were scattered and broken. It was believed the enemy had 20,000 men. The troops were weary and had gone without food for 15 hours. Canteens were dry as the August day grew hotter, ammunition was low, and Sigel's column was missing. Sturgis faced a critical decision: organize the troops and attack the Confederates' right again or retreat to Springfield. He gathered the other officers still on the battlefield for a council of war. The ability to continue defending their position depended on the whereabouts of Sigel's column. Not everyone was willing to concede that Sigel had been whipped, yet everyone realized the need to retreat unless Sigel was found. It had taken a half hour to locate Sturgis and inform him of the general's death. Sturgis later recalled, "The responsibility which rested upon me was duly felt and appreciated."