| Quartermaster General's Department |
| Richmond Oct. 13th 1864 |
| |
| Mr. Saml Tate |
| Demopolis Ala |
| |
| Sir, |
| Your communication of the 28th
ult. with enclosure from Gen. Harris has been received. |
| I am anxious to avail of your
services, having faith in your ability & disposition to execute what you
propose. At the same time, however, I am constrained to modify to some
extent the terms suggested by you. You contemplate delivering the
supplies in Mississippi. That is in the Military Dept. commanded by Lt.
Genl. Taylor & there it is understood that cotton delivered in payment
for Army supplies must be expended on the following basis to it at 50
cts a lb. in payment for supplies delivered at invoice prices with an
addition of 15 pr ct thereon for cost of transportation. The invoices
should be supported by prices current at the date of purchase & in the
locality where the same is made. |
| The annexed statement will
show you the articles most needed. All such suitable for Army use will
be received, at convenient points within our lines by Maj. L. Mims
QMaster Enterprise Miss, or some subordinate designated by him, & will
be paid for in cotton as herein proposed & permission will be granted
from Dept Hd. Qrs to export the cotton beyond our lines. |
| If these terms are acceptable
by you please say so & state also within what time the supplies can be
delivered. Time is important as they are needed for Winter use. |
| A R Lawton QMG |
| |
| List of Supplies to be delivered |
| 1st 50,000 prs of heavy Army shoes
(Bluchers) high quarters assorted in size & cording to enclosed circular
dated Sept 23d '64 from this office |
| 2nd 100,000 yds of 6/4 Grey Army
Cloth 22 to 24 oz pr yd |
| 3rd 50,000 prs of Army Blankets wt: 8
lbs per pair, each Blanket 58x80 inches |
| 4th Stationery, Leather, & Shoe
Makers tools & findings, in such quantities as may be brought in |
| P. S. The above was written prior to the
receipt of your letter of the 6th ins. It is still sent in the hope that
it may lead to something. |