| C. S. A. War Dept. |
| Richmond, Va Sept 8th, 1864 |
| |
| W. J. Magrath Esq |
| President S. C. R. R. Co. |
| Charleston S. C. |
| |
| Sir, |
| I have received your letter requesting
for the S. C. Rail Road the privilege of using for the export of
produce and importation of materials the interest which that road
has recently bought in certain steamers, free from Government
restriction. |
| In reply I have to say that under the
Laws of Congress and the regulations of the President in pursuance
of it, I do not think the privilege can be granted, but the decision
f the question does not rest with me, but with the Secretary of the
Treasury to whom the application should be addressed. |
| Very Respectfully |
| Your obt svt |
| J. A. Seddon |
| Secretary of War |
|