| Eutaw Ala Jan. 19th 1861 |
| |
| R. E. Rodes Esq |
| Chief Engineer &c
{Northeast & Southwest Alabama RR} |
| |
| Dear Sir, |
| There were two or three points
in regard to Derby's final Estimates about which I wish instructions. |
| In regard to the allowance for
wood cut for brick yards; he has almost 200 cords (175 at Warrior & 20
or 25 at Bigbee) cut which is still in the woods and which we are liable
to loose before the work commences again unless it is hauled up and
stacked at the yard. Derby says he is willing to haul it if the Company
will let him have money enough to pay for the hauling but if he does not
haul it he still thinks he ought to be paid for it where it is and the
Co. take the risk, how shall I dispose of it in the Estimate. |
| The trestlework timber which
he got out in the Bigbee Swamp is in the same condition that it was when
cut two years ago, it has been lying on the ground ever since and must
be considerably damaged & some of it lost, unless it is hauled out and
piled properly it will be almost impossible to return an estimate price
at once to the Company and contractor. Derby also is willing to haul
this if the Co. can make the necessary "raise." If it is not hauled out
and properly disposed off a large amount of it will be a dead loss to
Co. or Derby. Please notify me what to do in the premises. |
| Yours respectfully |
| Peyton Randolph |
| Asst. Engr. |
| |
| P. S. How is the military progressing? Our
Company has not yet been ordered out but Halis writes that he is
expecting orders every day, the boys generally show a willingness to go
but, I think, are very much in hopes that Fort Pickens will be taken or
given up before we can get there, in which pious aspiration I am much
inclined to join not wishing to have a sodden and violent end put to my
career by a grape shot or Mine ball. When you have leisure to write I
shall be very glad to hear of your proceedings, and hoping that you &
your command may obtain a maximum of glory and minimum loss. |
| I am Very Truly P. R. |