| Engineer Bureau |
| November 6th, 1862 |
| |
| Hon. Geo. W. Randolph |
| Sec. of War |
| |
| Sir, |
| I have to acknowledge the reference to me
for consideration & report of a contract proposed to be entered
into by A. S. Maxwell on the one hand, and the Confederate States on
the other, for the re-construction of the Decatur and Bean {Bear?}
Creek bridges on the Memphis & Charleston R. Rd.: |
| The contract is very badly drawn up and
the length of bridging, specifically 12,020 feet, evidently erroneous.
The correct length is probably 2,020 feet. Mr. Maxwell's proposition
is to build the bridge as cheaply as possible, demanding 20 per cent
on expenditures for his compensation, with the proviso however, that
the total cost, including his 20 per cent, shall not exceed $75.00 per
lineal foot -- in all 2020 x 75 = $151,500, which is the highest
figure to be attained in any event. |
| The principal objection to the contract is
that it is clearly to Mr. Maxwell's interest to make the cost of
constructing the bridge exactly $126,250 -- neither more nor less, for
if to this maximum amount we add 20 per cent $25,250 for compensation
the total is $151,500. Another objection is that the term
transportation &c of materials is used vaguely. It should be
distinctly specified that this transportation is only river or rail
road transportation, on rivers actually navigated by boats in
Government service, and on roads actually in working order, and
engaged in transportation for the Government. Without such
specifications the word transportation might be made to cover handling
and collecting materials. |
| Still another objection is that while Mr.
Maxwell bids himself to construct the bridges in a fixed time and for
a maximum sum no penalties are attached, and no bonds given. |
| It is therefore respectfully suggested
that a clear contract for a definite sum be fixed upon, and the papers
drawn up by an experienced lawyer; should the General commanding the
Depart. decide the reconstruction of these bridges judicious, in the
present condition of military proposals in that region. In my opinion
the necessary expense should not be drawn home by the Engineer
Appropriation. You may judge by precedent such expenditures properly
belong to the Quarter Master Dept. Should you desire it, an officer of
the Engineer Corps of the Western Dept. will be ordered to examine
into and report upon a suitable contract for re-building these
bridges. Maj. Genl. Saml. Jones' letter of Oct. 20th '62 enclosing
proposed contract with Mr. Maxwell is herewith returned. |
| Very Respectfully Your Obt Svt |
| A. F. Gilmer |
| Col. Eng. |
|