DALTON, February 23, 1864.

His Excellency the PRESIDENT,

Richmond:

General Wheeler reported during the night a Federal army at Ringgold and a body of 10,000 at Red Clay, 14 miles on the Cleveland road. I have therefore suspended the movement ordered by you. Am I right?

J. E. JOHNSTON.

(Similar to Longstreet.)

DALTON, February 24, 1864.

His Excellency the PRESIDENT,

Richmond:

General Polk telegraphs, under date of 22nd instant: "The enemy is moving westward in two columns from the Mobile and Ohio Railroad." General Polk with his infantry, including two of Hardee's brigade, moves this day in pursuit.

J. E. JOHNSTON.

DALTON, February 23, 1864.

General WHEELER:

Are your cavalry observing the column of the enemy reported by you on the Cleveland road? It is all important.

W. W. MACKALL,

Chief of Staff.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TENNESSEE,
Dalton, Ga., February 23, 1864.

Major General JOSEPH WHEELER,

Commanding Cavalry:

GENERAL: When driven back by enemy destroy all bridges in your rear and make the road as impracticable as possible. Offer him every obstruction and difficulty in your power.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

GEORGE WM. BRENT,

Colonel and Assistant Adjutant-General.

DALTON, February 23, 1864.

His Excellency the PRESIDENT:

I have just received the following dispatch from Atlanta: "No troops have yet arrived from Charleston; they are going through by way of Macon and Columbus." Thinking they may be intended for Lieutenant-General Polk I give no orders.

J. E. JOHNSTON.