| Engineer Bureau |
| January 19th 1864 |
| |
| Doctr Geo. E. Venable |
| Oakley P. O. |
| Mecklenburg Va |
| |
| Sir, |
| Having consulted the Railroad authorities,
I find that it will be impossible to obtain transportation for lumber
by railroad and will not therefore be able to contract with you,
although the terms offered by you are very reasonable. |
| Very Respectfully Your Obt Servt |
| A. L. Rives |
| Lt Col &c &c |
|