not be taken by surprise in his march on enemy's rear. I shall probably be at Bovina this evening. Colonel Wirt Adams reports that he drove back the enemy this morning at Dillon's, near Fourteen-Mile Creek.

J. C. PEMBERTON.

Vicksburg, May 12, 1863.

General BOWEN, or General LORING, Bovina:

I have ordered Gregg, with his force at Raymond [about 3,000 men], to advance on rear of enemy if he attacks Big Black Bridge. Should the enemy turn on Gregg, you will advance your whole force and attack him.

J. C. PEMBERTON.

HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, ARMY OF Mississippi, Bovina, May 12, 1863.

Major R. W. MEMMINGER,
Assistant Adjutant-GENERAL:

SIR: I have the honor to report that I have been unable to find or hear of any crossing place on the Big Black below the railroad bridge.

I have been to Mrs. Bachelor's plantation this morning, 3 miles below on this side, where the river can be approached near the Big Pond, but the country opposite, as far down as the mouth of Fourteen-Mile Creek, is represented as an impenetrable jungle, intersected with sloughs and ponds. This information corresponds with what I received while stationed at Smith's. I have sent two staff officers over to examine the east bank, and ascertain definitely everything bearing upon the case.

If the main attack comes against Big Black, it will be necessary to throw a force on my immediate right, behind the levee.

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

JNO. S. BOWEN.

BOVINA, May 12, 1863.

Lieutenant-General PEMBERTON:

The enemy are reported in force at Fourteen-Mile Creek, about 4 miles south of Edwards Depot; Gates is in line to resist their advance. The enemy can approach the opposite bank of Big Black, about 2 miles below the bridge. Nature of country on this side unknown.

JNO. S. BOWEN.

Vicksburg, May 12, 1863.

Brigadier General John S. BOWEN, Bovina:

Send following dispatch at once to General Loring:

Move with two brigades of your DIVISION immediately to the support of General Bowen. He reports enemy at Fourteen-Mile Creek, about 4 miles south of Edwards Depot.

J. C. PEMBERTON.

BOVINA, May 12, 1863.

Lieutenant-General PEMBERTON:

Colonel Gates reports enemy advancing in force-infantry, cavalry, and artillery. He has been fighting them all morning. He sends for