| Head Qrs. Milt Dist of Fla. |
| Tallahassee, Oct. 21st 1864 |
| |
| Maj. A. B. Noyes |
| Chf of Subsistence |
| |
| Major, |
| It has hitherto been found
impossible to keep the negroes employed in repairing and building
railroads, for the use of the Govt, and on fortifications, from running
away. The principled cause for this is the insufficient rations
furnished them. The Dept. is, I presume, aware of the necessity of
rebuilding the road, destroyed by the enemy, between Baldwin and Lake
City {Florida, Atlantic & Gulf Central RR}
as also, what is called the Live Oak connection between the Savannah &
Gulf R. R., and the Pensacola & Georgia Railroad. This work has lingered
for months, and is now far from completion. To accelerate this work, and
to obviate all cause of complaint, I have ordered that the ration of one
pound of beef, now given to negroes, be doubled, temporarily. Trusting
that the necessity of this action will be recognised by the Commissary
General. |
| I am, Sir, very respty |
| Your obt Servt |
| W. Miller |
| Brig. Genl. Comdg |
|