| Savannah, Georgia |
| February 22, 1862 |
| |
| Joseph E. Brown |
| Governor of Georgia |
| |
| Governor, |
| In the present condition of affairs the
connection between the cities of Charleston & Savannah by the
Charleston & Savannah Railroad is very precarious. Should the
force now on this coast be reinforced, an attempt will be made in all
probability to cut the road between the two cities, &, in view of
this contingency, I have the honor to call your attention to the
importance to the defence of the cities of Charleston, Augusta, &
Savannah, as well as to the states of Georgia & South Carolina, of
connecting the Augusta & Savannah Railroad with the Georgia or
South Carolina Railroad at Augusta. I am informed that the Augusta
& Savannah Railroad Company is willing to build the connection at
its own expense, provided they be allowed to take the route which they
would prefer, & which the president of the road, Dr. [Francis T.]
Willis, informs me is but 1/4 mile in distance. And if permission was
given at once, the connection could be completed in one week. I am,
moreover, informed by Dr. Willis that the railroad company will make
connections, taking the route selected by the City Council of Augusta,
more than twice the distance however, if the State of Georgia will
direct it & assume the expense. |
| In the latter case, no doubt the State
would be reimbursed by the Confederate government, but all
considerations of time & expense would seem to recommend that the
former plan be adopted, and I earnestly request that, if there is no
insurmountable objection to its being carried out, that Your
Excellency lend your aid & influence to have it done immediately. |
| I am, &c. |
| R. E. Lee |
| Genl Comdg |
|