Colonel McMicken's dispatch of the 19th October shows what the thought he needed in consequence of the increase of the army, and before the battle of Missionary Ridge; his dispatch of the 15th December states what he wanted after the battle.

I would respectfully ask that these dispatches be returned to me.

I am, sir, very respectfully,

A. H. COLE,

Lieutenant Colonel and Insp. General Field Transportation.

DALTON, GA., January 20, 1864.

Brigadier-General BATE,

Commanding Brigade:

SIR: It has been officially communicated to General Johnston that your brigade yesterday offered its services to the Government during the continuance of the war.

He is greatly encouraged by this manifestation of devotion by these soldiers. He regards it as a harbinger of future success. He hopes that the time may soon arrive when their honored State, rescued from the grasp of the invader, will receive them with the welcome, "Well done, thou good and faithful servants."

By command of General Johnston.

Very respectfully, &c.,

BENJ. S. EWELL,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

MERIDIAN, MISS., January 20, 1864.

General S. COOPER,

Adjutant and Inspector General:

General Forrest dispatches from Como to-day as follows:

My scouts report 5,000 cavalry and 4,000 infantry at La Grange, preparing to move on Grenada.

L. POLK,

Lieutenant-General.

RUSSELLVILLE, January 20, 1864.

General S. COOPER:

The enemy is still on the retreat; our cavalry is in pursuit.

J. LONGSTREET,

Lieutenant-General, Commanding.

RICHMOND, VA., January 20, 1864.

General J. LONGSTREET,

Russellville, Tenn.:

Send Corse's brigade immediately to Petersburg, where it is required for an emergency, replacing it if necessary for your safety or communication by some other forces of your command.

S. COOPER,

Adjutant and Inspector General.