| C. S. A. War Deptment |
| Richmond, Nov. 5, 1863 |
| |
| Genl. J. E. Johnston |
| Meridian Miss. |
| |
| Provisions cannot be spared by the
Commissary. The President of Demopolis Railroad {Alabama
& Mississippi Rivers RR} can buy reasonable supplies for
those in his employ as laborers and otherwise and they will be under
the law exempt from impressment. See General Order thirty-one. |
| J. A. Seddon |
| Secy of War |
| |
| Sent by telegram |
|