Yazoo City, which he supposes to be their real object. Logan's brigade has gone in pursuit of this party. General Whitfield reports enemy-cavalry and infantry-advancing on the Brownsville and Lexington road. He is fighting them on the cross-road near Mrs. Turpley's house-force 1,000 cavalry and heavy columns of infantry. Buford has two regiments at Vaughan's Station, one at railroad bridge over Brig Black, the remainder at Grenada-the latter ordered back. General Adams encamped on Pearl River last night, and will be in Canton early to-day. General Featherston's brigade is on the road. Nothing from General Loring yet. General Jackson asked for ammunition; it was sent this morning.

BENJ. S. EWELL,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

MERIDIAN, October 17, 1863.

Major-General LORING,

Canton:

Ector's and McNair's brigades will follow Featherston's, which went to Brandon to-day; therefore you had better not engage in general action until they arrive, but delay the enemy as much as possible. The field transportation of Brandon and Canton will have to be used for all these troops; please arrange it.

J. E. JOHNSTON.

MERIDIAN, October 17, 1863.

Major-General LORING,

Brandon:

The following received from General Johnston:

If the enemy should be in the direction of Brownsville, Adams' shortest route would be from Moore's Ferry, by Calhoun Station. General Loring is far enough forward to direct these movements and fix the point of junction of the troops.

General Featherston's brigade is ordered to join you.

By command of General Johnston:

BENJ. S. EWELL,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

MERIDIAN, October 17, 1863.

Major-General LORING,

Canton:

General Jackson telegraphs:

Enemy have commenced their advance; evidently intend moving on Canton. It will be necessary to have re-enforcements at Canton.

BENJ. S. EWELL,

Assistant Adjutant-General.