NA, SWR 12/28/1864

Confederate States of America
Quartermaster General's Office
Richmond 28th Dec 1864
 
Hon J. A. Seddon
Secy of War
 
Sir,
   I have had the honor to represent to you on several occasions the necessity imposed on the government to take possession of the "Piedmont Rail Road" running from Danville to Greensboro, owing to the inadequate transportation of army supplies over it. The difficulty arises, in part at best, from the difference in gauge on that Road and the {Richmond &} Danville Road, and the failure of the former in consequence to receive any aid from the latter. I most respectfully ask that you will at once exercise the authority given to the Secretary of War by an "Act to facilitate Government transportation" approved May 1st 1863; and that Major S. R. Chisman be authorized to take possession of said Piedmont Rail Rd in the name of the Secretary of War, and to take such  steps as are pointed out in said Act.
Very respectfully
Yr Obt Servt
A R Lawton
Qr. Mr Genl
 
{on back of document}
To Wpt Secy
   The order must under the perceptions of this can be given -- ??? you plan ??? or propose or ??? in conformity with the Law. {uncertain about most words}
JASeddon
Secy
30 Decr 64

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