NEAR PORT GIBSON, May 1, 1863 - 5. 15 p. m.

I still hold my position. I will have to retire under cover of night to other side of Bayou Pierre and await re-enforcements. The bacon is all removed out of Port Gibson. They will not get it.

JNO. S. BOWEN,

Brigadier-General.

Lieutenant-General PEMBERTON.

PORT GIBSON, May 1, 1863 - 5. 30.

I am falling back across Bayou Pierre. I will endeavor to hold that position until re-enforcements arrive. I have had as much meat carried over as I could. The rest will be burned to night, as will the corn stored here. There will be very little to eat here for my own command or the re-enforcements. Want of ammunition is one of the main causes of our retreat. The men did nobly, holding out the whole day against overwhelming odds. The town will be in possession of the enemy in a few hours, and communication cut off.

JNO. S. BOWEN,

Brigadier-General.

Lieutenant-General PEMBERTON.

Vicksburg, May 1, 1863.

Brigadier-General BOWEN, grand Gulf:

The Parrott ammunition has gone via Hankinson's. Six and 12-pounders will be sent at once. I think in unnecessary to keep a whole brigade a the Gulf. They cannot land under your guns. General Loring, with nearly two brigades, has started from Jackson to you. You had better whip them before he reaches you.

J. C. PEMBERTON,

Lieutenant-General, Commanding.

Vicksburg, May 1, 1863.

General John S. BOWEN, port Gibson:

I am hurrying re-enforcements; also ammunition. Endeavor to hold your own until they arrive, though it may be some time, as the distance is great.

J. C. PEMBERTON.

Vicksburg, May 1, 1863 - 4. 50 p. m.

General John S. BOWEN, port Gibson:

A brigade from here will reach you before Loring.

J. C. PEMBERTON,

Lieutenant-General, commanding.

Vicksburg, May 1, 1863 - 7. 30 p. m.

Brigadier General BOWEN, Port Gibson:

Is it not probable that the enemy will himself retire to-night? It is very important, as you know, to retain your present position, if possi-