| Meridian, Miss., January 16, 1865 |
| |
| Col. E. J. Harvie |
| Inspector-General |
| |
| Sir, |
| Colonel Henry called on me yesterday and
requested a written statement of the capacity of the railroads and
their ability to move troops, as well as the condition of the roads.
I gave him the report, and added a few suggestions. Probably he has
forwarded the report to you. In case he has not, a few lines from me
will do no harm. If the ordnance should be sent to Columbus, it can
be sent from there on boats direct to Montgomery without being
unloaded. This would save a great deal in the way of transportation,
and would save several handlings, and would get it through faster
than it could be sent by railroad. I would also advise that the
boats be ordered to Columbus for it at once. I learn there is now a
fine stage of water in the Bigbee River for boats, and if the boats
were ordered now there would be no danger of the river getting too
low before the boats could get up to Columbus. The hospitals at
Columbus can be sent by boats also to Montgomery. I reported to
Colonel Henry that I thought at least one-third of the men should be
sent via Selma. If you think as I do, please order the
transportation given accordingly, and then when the men arrive here
I will know exactly what men are to go on to Mobile and what men are
to go via Selma. I think we should be able to move from 2,500 to
3,000 men per day, easy. Lieutenant Harvey has not yet arrived; will
tell him when he comes to telegraph to Tupelo to you, and await your
reply before he goes on. |
| Yours, respectfully |
| George Whitfield |
| Major and Quartermaster |
|