|
Wilmington & Weldon Railroad Co.
|
|
President's Office |
| Wilmington, 8th June 1862 |
| |
| Hon. J. W. Randolph |
| Sec. of War |
| |
| Dear Sir, |
| I heard while I was lately in
Richmond that it was contemplated by the Government to establish a new
Bureau of Transportation, the Chief of which would have exclusive
control, subject to orders and restrictions of the War Department, of
all Rail Road & Steamboat transportation for the Government. This
position as Chief of Transportation I formerly held but believing that I
could best advance the interests of the Govt. by giving more attention
to my own road, I resigned and recommended Capt Mason Morfit as my
successor, who has been serving since June. |
| Capt. Morfit was for a long
time under my control, and by his travels and his duties in the Bureau
he has become thoroughly acquainted with the different lines of roads &
their Presidents, which acquaintance is a great desideratum in the
transaction of the duties pertaining to his office. His promotion, with
increased power would be of immense advantage to the Govt., and all the
R. R. without exception would be pleased & gratified at the change. The
appointment of one unacquainted with the Roads and their Officers would
be injurious to the service. The prompt movement of the Troops of late
have reflected much credit on Capt Morfit, and by his friendly
cooperation with all the R. Roads he has won their esteem, honor to
himself & advanced the Govt. interests. |
| As a refugee from Maryland he
deserves position from the Govt., and, as he has so well served it
promotion to the Chief of Transportation, with increased military rank,
would be well conferred & faithfully observed. |
| As a R. R. Prest I
respectfully recommend his promotion, & hope it may be to the interests
of the Confederacy. |
| I have the honor to be |
| Very Respectfully |
| W. S. Ashe |
| p S H deRosset |
|