| Engineer Bureau |
| 2 Sept. 1863 |
| |
| Maj. Genl. J. F. Gilmer, Chief Engr Bureau |
| Charleston S. C. |
| |
| General, |
| I find it very difficult if not
impossible, to make satisfactory arrangements for the repair of
damaged shovels, and as various Rail Road companies earnestly ask the privilege
of buying them in their damaged condition, I would like to have your
opinion on the propriety of thus disposing of them. |
| Very Respectfully |
| Your obdt. Servant |
| A. L. Rives |
| Lt. Col. & Actg chf Bu. |
|