NCA, RRB 1/7/1864

Confederate States, Quartermaster's Department

Railroad Bureau

Richmond Jany 7th 1864
 
Major J. D. Whitfield
Goldsboro N. C.
 
Major,
   Your favor of the 25th Decr recd would have had earlier absence {answer?} but for absence & sickness
   The detention you complain of to great to give cars and engines furnish just ground for a claim to compensation and if you will make your bill out I will try and arrange it for you.
   Our supplies of corn through your state by both lines will be held and detention is already occurring at both Wilmington and Charlotte. If it is possible to move promptly all that comes, do not let it be detained. Your trains ought to keep the lower level clear and with what assistance the Western Rd can give most of it ought to reduce this ??? to bring 150,000 bu monthly.
   Just at present high water has caused an interruption but it is only temporary. My fear is that Mr Sanford {Superintendent, Petersburg RR} will be unable to move all promptly in which event I shall fall back on your desire to remedy.
Very truly
F W Sims
Major & Q. M.
The Augusta rates were advanced about 50 per cent at Macon

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