| Engineer Bureau |
| Oct. 22, 1862 |
| |
| W. D. Whitcomb Esq. |
| Supt. Va. Central RR |
| |
| Dear Sir, |
| Enclosed I send you five copies of a
letter from the Secy. of War, which I believe will answer you purpose
& prevent the draft of slaves for fortifications interfering with
the proper working of your road. |
| Very respy. & truly yours |
| A. L. Rives |
| Asst. to Chf. Eng. |
|