NA, DW 6/2/1863

Hd. Qrs. Dep't of the West
Jackson June 2d 1863
 
Armes Cap't H. G.
Ch'f Eng. So. R. R'd.  {Southern (of Mississippi) RR}
Clinton
 
Sir,
   You are requested to come to Jackson at once and take charge and control of the track laying of the Southern Rail Road. The track has not as yet been repaired to the river, which should have been done fully ten days since. Gov't freight is now being hauled and troops compelled to come on foot from Williams Mill. The entire track of the Southern R. Rd is in a wretched condition and if not soon repaired it cannot be used. If you as Chief Engineer of the road will not have the work pushed rapidly forward, we will be compelled to appoint some Gov't Officer to take charge of the Road, and have it speedily repaired and put in order. Genl Johnston has determined that the Road shall be put in good order, and that there shall be no further delay.
  I am informed that the constant presence on the Road of it Chief Engineer is absolutely necessary. The trains are now backing from the present terminus to Lake Station and as yet to all appearances, there has been no move made to put on a Turn Table at the end of the road. The Govt has furnished the Road with all the hands it has asked for, and have granted all the facilities in its power, but still the Road is not in good good running order, which is not the case with other Roads. I again request that you will give this matter your immediate personal attention.
I am Sir Very Respectfully,
Your Obdt Servt,
 
Col. & Inspec. Genl.

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