Three partially-printed "The Southern Telegraph Companies" sheets, each approx. 7 1/2 x 5 in., numbered 1-2-3 respectively, recording a telegram to "The President" received at "Richmond" from "J.E. Johnston Genl" at "Jackson." 6 January 1863. (Adhesive residue, toning, small losses).

Decoded message from Johnston states: "Your dispatch of yesterday recd enemy troops & transports reported gone up the River from Millikens bend we hear of no movements in [this direction] by [Genl. Holmes]. grants forces are reported distributed at Memphis Holly Springs & Corinth the country said to be impractible. Genl Bragg reports he has [withdrawn] from [Murfreesboro] shold he [need help] and appear no [danger] in [Mississippi] except by the River could [EK Smith's men return]. The impossibility of my knowledge condition of things in Tennessee shows that I cannot direct both parts of my command at once. I am hoping to hear from Bragg. 172/2326."

Telegram sent following the 31 December 1862- 2 January 1863 Battle of Stones River (Second Battle of Murfreesboro) in which Union forces defeated Confederate forces under General Braxton Bragg.