NA, ENG 12/9A/1863

Engineer Bureau
December 9th 1863
 
Hon James A. Seddon Secy of War
 
Sir,
   The charter granted to the Piedmont RR Co by the State of North Carolina fixes the gauge of the road at four feet eight and a half inches. Unfortunately the supply of rolling stock adapted to that gauge which can under existing circumstances be procured by the Company or the Govt is very small, while on the contrary a fair supply of rolling stock for the five feet gauge is on hand or can be procured.
   As the legislature of the State of North Carolina is now in session, but will shortly adjourn, I respectfully suggest that representation be made (by telegraph) to his Excy Gov Vance, with a view to obtaining from the legislature such a modification of the Charter of the Piedmont RR Co as will furnish the putting down, without further delay of the wide instead of the narrow, as is now being done.
Very Respectfully, Your Obt Servt
A. L. Rives
Lt. Col. & Actg Ch Bu

Home