know enough of the correspondent to know if his statements are reliable. Will have the matter looked into and make a further report.

S. D. LEE,

Major-General.

A more recent report gives force 1,500 effective; 1,500 convalescents and artillery for duty.

[SEPTEMBER 2, 1863.-For Johnston to Seddon, in reference to maintenance of communication with Trans-Mississippi Department, see Series I, Vol. XXII, Part II, p. 988.]

MORTON, September 2, 1863.

General S. COOPER,

Richmond:

I respectfully recommend that Major General S. D. Lee's command be extended over the cavalry of West Tennessee.

J. E. JOHNSTON.

GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS,

No. 13. Morton, Miss., September 2, 1863.

The division of the Department of Mississippi and East Louisiana into military districts is hereby abolished, such division being incompatible with the command of the entire cavalry in Mississippi, conferred by the President on Major General S. D. Lee.

By command of General Johnston:

BENJ. S. EWELL,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS,
Morton, Miss., September 2, 1863.

Brigadier-General RUGGLES,

Commanding, Columbus, Miss.:

GENERAL: The receipt of your communication of the 26th ultimo, asking instructions on several points, is hereby acknowledged.

First. In reply I respectfully state that by the abolishment of districts and the appointment of Major-General Lee by the President to the command of all the cavalry in Mississippi all control of the cavalry referred to has been withdrawn from you, except such as may be assigned to your command on detached duty.

Second. The condition of the Second Regiment Alabama Cavalry, and Boyles' battalion is the same as the other cavalry formerly under your command.

Third. You will apply to Major-General Lee for such details as you may require for couriers, scouting, and picket service.

Fourth. The abolishment of districts obviates any necessity for an answer to your fourth inquiry.