| Head Qrs Drewry's Bluff |
| 16 June 1864 |
| |
| His Excy Jeffn Davis |
| President Richmond |
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| Mr. President, |
| For some few days back we
have been only able to get sufficient corn for our animals from day to
day. Any accident to the railroads would cut short our supplies. I
directed Col. Corley to make this representation to the Qr Mr Genl
today: he has returned & says Genl Lawton is doing everything he
can, but cannot provide more than about 2000 bushels {about
7 carloads} per day. We
require 3200 bushels {about 11 carloads} daily for all our animals. I think it is clear
that the railroads are not working energetically & unless some
improvement is made, I do not know what will become of us. I am
therefore obliged to appeal to your Excellency as reluctant as I am to
trespass upon your time & attention. I beg that every exertion may
be made, not only to supply our daily wants, but to lay up something
for future use. Our existence depends upon every ones exerting
themselves at this time to the utmost. |
| I am with great respect |
| Your obt servt. |
| R. E. Lee |
| Genl. |
|