NA, RRB 10/16/1863

Richmond Oct. 16th 1863
 
Lieut Col A. L. Rives
Acting Chief Engineer Bureau
 
Col,
   I have, from the very commencement of my duties, felt the need of a commissioned officer as Assistant. I should have to keep this officer most of his time travelling. He would visit the roads of companies asking for iron and rolling stock & report what are the real wants of those companies. He would have to visit distant points to make contracts & negotiations. He might occasionally have to manage a detail of soldiers. He might have disbursements to make. In short there are numerous ways in which he would be useful.
   I have found a gentleman who would suit me in this capacity Mr J M Fairbanks of Florida. I have informed myself well as to his character and capacity. He is a Civil Engineer and has recommendations before you for an appointment in the Engineer Corps.
   I should like for him to receive the appointment of 1st Lieut. and be made Assistant to this Commission.
   I have thought it not improbable that, if, after trial he should give entire satisfaction to the Bureau, he might be found a suitable person as Commissioner. This however could be an after consideration as we want an Assistant in any event.
Very respectfully
Your ob Servt
Chas. F. M. Garnett
Commissioner

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