| From the Richmond Examiner |
| |
| December 13, 1861 |
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| The Connecting Railroad Link |
| We understand that the
recommendation of President Davis for the construction of a connecting
link of railroad from Greensboro', N. C., to Danville, Va.,
{the Piedmont RR} "as most indispensable
for the successful prosecution of the war," in order to facilitate the
rapid transportation of troops and supplies, and munitions of war, has
been brought to the attention of the North Carolina Convention now in
session. Heretofore the right of way has been obstinately denied by
former North Carolina Legislatures. There is no doubt but it will now be
most cheerfully accorded by the Convention of that State. |
| |
| To the Editor of the Examiner: |
| In your issue of Saturday
last, the above paragraph is found. The expression, "obstinately
denied," though probably not intended, imports a censure upon the
policy of the State of North Carolina in refusing heretofore to
authorise the connection between Greensboro and Danville. Is any such
censure deserved? That State has appropriated some eight millions of
dollars to bring to her own market the trade of Western North Carolina
and Eastern Tennessee. This connection will direct all this trade to the
Richmond market, thereby completely destroying the long cherished policy
of building up her own seaport towns. Would Virginia make any such
sacrifice to promote the prosperity of a rival city? The Pan Handle
controversy is evidence of the policy she would pursue. That you to the
Old North State no more than justice in saying she will make the
sacrifice, as great as it is, if the military necessities of the
Confederate Government requires it. But would not the completion of the
{Roanoke} road from Clarksville to
Keysville answer the military requirement? This connection can be
finished at one-tenth of the expense and one-eighth of the time. In
truth, this connection is nearly done now, and, when finished, for all
war purposes, will do better than the Danville connection. |
| I am, sir, &c |
| Old North State |
|