NEAR ATLANTA, July 12, 1864.

General BRAXTON BRAGG,

Richmond:

The enemy holds several fords from eight to twelve miles above, where he has troops intrenched on this side. Elsewhere everything quiet, except a little occasional skirmishing at long range across the river, and artillery firing by the enemy, principally near railroad, ineffective.

J. E. JOHNSTON.

RICHMOND, July 12, 1864.

(Received 13th.)

General J. E. JOHNSTON:

Your telegram received. You have all the force that can be employed to distribute or guard prisoners; know the condition of the country and prospects of military operations. I must rely on you to advise General Winder as to the proper and practicable action in relation to U. S. prisoners.

JEFFN. DAVIS.

HEADQUARTERS,
July 12, 1864.

Major-General WHEELER,

Commanding Cavalry:

GENERAL: General Johnston directs that you will send to Brigadier-General Jackson, commanding cavalry, Captain Waties' battery of artillery, now with Brigadier-General Ferguson.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

A. P. MASON,

Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE,
July 12, 1864-4.20 p. m.

Major E. S. BURFORD,

Assistant Adjutant-General, Wheeler's Corps:

MAJOR: I am just in receipt of your note of this evening. The enemy are in statu quo in my front. This force is small and chiefly of infantry. Two hundred or 300 mounted men came up the Isham's Ferry road about two hours ago, but after a few shots from my pickets went back. Some scouts who went some days ago with Captain Humber across the Etowah have returned. They killed and wounded 12 Yankees and got their horses. The captain is badly wounded himself.

Respectfully,

JNO. S. WILLIAMS.

P. S.-I will send out my remaining scouts at once.

J. S. W.