| Engineer Bureau |
| Richmond, June 4th 1863 |
| |
| Col. Chas. F. M. Garnett |
| Capt. Geo. E. Walker |
| Engr. Corps P. A. C. S. |
| |
| Gentlemen, |
| You have been selected by the
Hon. Secretaries of War and Navy to form a Commission to collect for
the Government the iron rails, and in some instances the rolling stock
and scrap iron of various rail road companies, as set forth in a
report of a special commission appointed by order of the Adjutant and
Inspector General, herewith enclosed. |
| You will endeavor first to
negotiate the purchase of the above material from the Companies on
satisfactory term, introducing the condition of replacing the rails at
the termination of the war in lieu of immediate compensation for them,
whenever practicable. The Chief of the Nitre and Mining Bureau should
be consulted before closing definitely the terms of purchase as it is
very desirable for the Government, that the value of iron, should as
far as practicable be controlled by that Bureau. |
| In the event that negotiations
for purchase fail, you are authorized to impress, but will conform
strictly to the recent Law of impressments. Whenever occasion demands,
you are further authorized to secure all necessary legal assistance,
but will endeavor to fix beforehand a fair compensation for such
services. |
| An early entrance upon the
duties confided to you is earnestly desired, and you are particularly
enjoined to take measures to produce practical results with the least
possible delay; to which end, you are authorized to employ upon
reasonable terms, such agents as may be needed. |
| Very Respectfully |
| Your obt. Servant |
| J. F. Gilmer |
| Col. of Engr. & Chf of Bureau |
| |
| Approved |
| Jas. A. Seddon |
| Secretary of War |
| |
| S. R. Mallory |
| Secretary of War {should
be Secretary of the Navy} |
|