May 28, 1863, The Charleston Mercury
THE SIEGE OF VICKSBURG.
LATEST OFFICIAL DESPATCHES.
The following despatches, from General PEMBERTON, the commander at Vicksburg, were sent to Jackson, Mississippi, and from thence telegraphed to President DAVIS;
VICKSBURG, May 20. – The enemy assaulted our entrenchments yesterday on our centre and left. They were repulsed with heavy loss. Our loss is small. The enemy’s force is at least sixty thousand.
VICKSBURG, May 21. – The enemy kept up a heavy artillery fire yesterday. Two of our guns were dismounted in the centre; our works, however, were uninjured. Their sharpshooters picked off officers and men all day. Our works were repaired and our guns replaced last night. Our men are encouraged by a report that Gen. JOHNSTON is near with a large army, and are in good spirits.
MAY 21, 2 p.m. – We have had brisk artillery and musketry firing today; also heavy mortar firing from gunboats.
3 o’clock, p.m. – During the past two days transports with troops have gone up the river. Their destination is unknown.
(The Latest.)
RICHMOND, May 27. – A trustworthy private despatch received from Canton, Mississippi, and dated yesterday, says: ‘All is well at Vicksburg. The garrison holds out bravely.’