OR, Series 1, Vol. 11, Part 3, Page 598

Petersburg, Va.
June 13, 1862
 
George W. Randolph
Secretary of War
 
   I took all the Norfolk cars I could get; most of my cars were up the road loaded when all the rest were sent for the prisoners. When I ordered them back they were delayed some time by the quartermaster in Lynchburg telling our agent they should not go. The superintendent of the telegraph line said there was not time to fix instruments, or outside operators should not tamper with their wires. The trains of empty cars had to be brought back to carry troops from here and also for Mr. Talcott {Superintendent, Richmond & Danville RR}; as I had a good many of his cars I presume [he] wanted them. I was unwell at the time the movement commenced, and my anxiety that it should go on right put me to bed, where I am still very sick, but I believe the troops have gone as fast and safely as they could go at so short a notice. I did not suppose you were ignorant of the number of troops, but I was ignorant until near the time of the troops starting from Richmond that they were all to go the same day. Mr. Talcott telegraphed me they would start next day. He sent the sick to the Junction. I feel much concerned that you complain of my communicating your movement in the way I have done. I have made no communication except through the telegraph; but perhaps there may be a mistake in that part of the wording of your telegraph. If I erred, it was from my desire to carry the troops as fast and safely as they could go.
H. D. Bird   {Superintendent, South Side RR}

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