| Engineer Bureau |
| May 8th, 1863 |
| |
| Maj. General S. B. Buckner |
| Commanding &c. Knoxville, Tenn. |
| |
| General, |
| It has been suggested by the
Hon. Sec. of War that 4 miles of R. Rd. iron shall be furnished to the
Va. & Tenn. R. Rd. Co. as promptly as possible, to enable them to
develop the production of salt in the vicinity of Abingdon, Va. and
transport it as fast as manufactured. As efficient supply of salt, as
you are doubtless aware, is a matter of vital importance to the
Confederacy. It has been further decided, that the required amount of
iron shall be taken from the Rogersville Branch {Rogersville
& Jefferson RR}. My object in writing therefore, is to
request that you will assist in every way in your power, Capt. J. A.
Haydon, who has been selected as the Government agent to purchase the
iron if possible, but impress it if necessary -- should there be
occasion. I further respectfully, but earnestly ask, that military
protection be afforded, and also fatigue parties be detailed to assist
in the work of removal. |
| Very Respectfully Yours |
| J. F. Gilmer |
| Col of Engrs & Chf of Bureau |
|