MERIDIAN, November 19, 1863.

His Excellency the PRESIDENT, Richmond:

Brig. Gen. Wirt Adams is between the Big Black and Natchez, and will assist in selecting crossing-places and otherwise. An officer is sent to him, who will go on to General Smith with information. When the latter is ready the articles will be sent. It would make considerable delay to prepare to cross above. Recommence cipher in each sentence.

J. E. JOHNSTON.

OXFORD, November 19, 1863.

General J. E. JOHNSTON:

Shall I stop purchasing agents having authority from Richmond to exchange cotton with citizens for supplies which come from enemy?

J. R. CHALMERS,

Brigadier-General.

COLUMBUS, November 19, 1863.

General: J. E. JOHNSTON:

I have not been informed that your officers have exceeded orders. I hope the President will authorize you to revoke them. They precipitate the evil they were intended to remedy. The slaves can only be brought out by their masters; fearing our troops they fly to the enemy.

CHARLES CLARK.

MERIDIAN, MISS.,

November 19, 1863.

Brigadier-General JACKSON,

Livingston, via Canton:

Instruct Colonel Ballentine to impress only such slaves of military age as may be in danger of falling into the enemy's power and placed in their ranks.

J. E. JOHNSTON.

MERIDIAN, November 19, 1863.

Brig. Gen. N. B. FORREST, Okolona:

Brigadier-General Jackson reports that his scouts in Washington County report seven large transports, heavily loaded with troops, passed up on the 12th and five on the 13th.

J. E. JOHNSTON.