| Memphis & Charleston Rail Road Office |
| Memphis, Nov 22nd 1861 |
| |
| Genl L Polk |
| Columbus |
| |
| Dr Sir, |
|
There is a movement on foot I learn, to appoint a Provost
Marshall and place the City under military law. I think the move a
necessity and to protect our people from the villainous now
among us but the person to be appointed is a matter great moment. I
hear Topp spoken of, he will not do, first he will not allow to it
2nd he is not very learned and a majority of the people have not
this sort of Confidence in him that they ought to have, there is a
Certain party here who is for him this reason alone would give his
appointment great importance, from among all my acquaintances I know
of no man who would fill the place so well as F. W. Royster the
???of the Vigilance Committee, he is a gentleman here and merchant,
has been here all his life is firm and will do his duty
honestly. I hope you will appoint him or some other un?? man, Hicks
& Brinkley are gone to Charleston to buy negroes to work Lect Potn
Mines Grumton is now in Arkansas, working these mines. I am trying
to work the Rail Road and rain all the guns I can. I hope you are
fast recovering from your shock, & will be again on duty soon. |
| Your friend |
| Sam Tate
{President, Memphis & Charleston RR} |
|