BRISTOL, September 5, 1863.

S. COOPER,

Adjutant and Inspector General:

Enemy ran up to Jonesborough last night and occupied with two trains. This morning reached Carter's Depot, Watauga bridge, and demanded surrender of garrison; this refused, and I expect a conflict has ensued. No bridges burned yet. Will hold them to the last. Hope re-enforcements may come to relief soon.

A. E. JACKSON,

Brigadier-General.

MONTGOMERY, September 6, 1863.

General COOPER:

I have just received the following dispatch from General Bragg.

Cannot send him more than the force he asks for. Shall I do so?

CHATTANNOGA, September 6, 1863.

General JOHNSTON:

Hasten a division of infantry to Atlanta if you can spare it only for a few days. It will save that depot and give me time to defeat the enemy's plans.

BRAXTON BRAGG,

J. E. JOHNSTON.

[Indorsement.]

SEPTEMBER 7, 1863.

Your telegram of yesterday is obscure. Send, however, all the force you can spare.

S. C.

MORTON, MISS.,

September 6, 1863.

General BRAGG,

Chattanooga:

Dispatch received and referred to General Johnston at Montgomery. I am under the impression all the troops that can be spared from this department have been sent.

W. J. HARDEE,

Lieutenant-General.

MONTGOMERY, September 6, 1863.

General BRAGG,

Chattanooga:

I can spare no troops without risking Mobile; but if it is to save Atlanta I will send two small brigades for a few days. Reply and tell me the plan to be defeated.

J. E. JOHNSTON.