NA, ENG 7/29/1863

Engineer Bureau July 29th 1863
 
Capt. J. A. Haydon Corp. Engrs
Knoxville, Tenn.
 
Captain, 
   I have laid your letter of the 18th inst (with the accompanying decision of Judge Welaker, discussing the information in the Case of the Rogersville Branch RRd {the Rogersville & Jefferson RR}) stating that a "Bond of Four hundred thousand dollars is required to be made by the Government" to abide by & perform the final decree of the court &c, -- before the Secy of War, who instructs me to say that, you are authorized to pledge the faith of the Confederate Government to perform all that is required by the Bond, as described in the decision of Judge Welaker, but, that the execution of a Bond on the part of the Govt is unusual. If the Hon. L. C. Hayner advises the execution of a Bond, however, you are authorized to sign it as an Agent of the War Dept. You will please to get your council to prepare the necessary papers; copies of which, you will please to send to this Bureau. In regard to the I alines at Winter Gap, I wish you to consult with Maj. Genl. Buckner & if he can give the requisite protection & assistance, to take steps to prepare & bring into full operation the works now in existence with additions, if possible. Animal power might be used for raising the water. The property may be leased by the Govt, or amt extended with proper consideration to individuals.
Your obdt Sevt
J. F. Gilmer
Col Engrs & Chf of Bu

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