| Atlanta April 4th 1864 |
| |
| Col. F. W. Sims |
| |
| Col., |
| In reply to yours of the 30th March with
regard to supplying Johnstons army, from Ala. I am satisfied the
amount of corn is abundant. I have for the last three months been
trying the QM to have those supplied first upon the Roads. So far
there has been but little operation from that quarter. I think the
transportation facilities is sufficient to feed Johns army from
Montgomery. There certainly can be enough of transportation put upon
the Ala. River to bring those supplies to Montgomery. If Col
McMakins assistants would attend to putting supplies on the Roads &
quit interfering with RR transport, There would not be any cause of
complaints. |
| My reason for asking you for a transfer
was because I thought it humiliating to hold the position, when
there was so much interference with my business. If I could be let
alone I would most cheerfully work day & night I suppose to keep up
the efficiency of my department. There has been so much meddling
here that RR officials are becoming disprested & say they do not
know who to obey. All I ask is to be treated with common courtesy &
I will not think any of my duties hard. I think from the kind
treatment I receive from RR officials that I have their confidence.
I have always had their hearty cooperation, when my orders was not
interfered with by other government officers. |
| I am certain there is enough of corn
along the Ala river & the line of Rail Roads running to Selma to
feed Johns army for six months. If the proper authorities will send
some efficient man in that section who will attend to furnishing
sacks. Those supplies will be furnished without the use of local
transpt. The line of RR between Selma & Demopolis is almost fenced
in with corn cribs. |
| I have lastly delivered at Wespoint 15
W&A ft {West Point 15 Western & Atlantic RR
freight} cars also apunces of 40 to the N&C RR
{Nashville & Chattanooga RR} I will go
to Montgomery in few days & advise you further. |
| Your obt Sevt |
| J. M. Hottel |
| Maj & QM |