| Engineer Bureau July 29th 1863 |
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| Capt. J. A. Haydon Corp. Engrs |
| Knoxville, Tenn. |
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| Captain, |
| I have laid your
letter of the 18th inst (with the accompanying decision of Judge
Welaker, discussing the information in the Case of the Rogersville
Branch RRd {the Rogersville &
Jefferson RR}) stating that a "Bond
of Four hundred thousand dollars is required to be made by the
Government" to abide by & perform the final decree of the
court &c, -- before the Secy of War, who instructs me to say that,
you are authorized to pledge the faith of the Confederate Government
to perform all that is required by the Bond, as described in the
decision of Judge Welaker, but, that the execution of a Bond on the
part of the Govt is unusual. If the Hon. L. C. Hayner advises the
execution of a Bond, however, you are authorized to sign it as an
Agent of the War Dept. You will please to get your council to prepare
the necessary papers; copies of which, you will please to send to this
Bureau. In regard to the I alines at Winter Gap, I wish you to consult
with Maj. Genl. Buckner & if he can give the requisite protection
& assistance, to take steps to prepare & bring into full
operation the works now in existence with additions, if possible.
Animal power might be used for raising the water. The property may be
leased by the Govt, or amt extended with proper consideration to
individuals. |
| Your obdt Sevt |
| J. F. Gilmer |
| Col Engrs & Chf of Bu |
|