| Richmond Oct. 16th 1863 |
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| Lieut Col A. L. Rives |
|
Acting Chief Engineer Bureau
|
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| Col, |
| I have, from the very commencement of my
duties, felt the need of a commissioned officer as Assistant. I
should have to keep this officer most of his time travelling. He
would visit the roads of companies asking for iron and rolling stock
& report what are the real wants of those companies. He would
have to visit distant points to make contracts & negotiations.
He might occasionally have to manage a detail of soldiers. He might
have disbursements to make. In short there are numerous ways in
which he would be useful. |
| I have found a gentleman who would suit
me in this capacity Mr J M Fairbanks of Florida. I have informed
myself well as to his character and capacity. He is a Civil Engineer
and has recommendations before you for an appointment in the
Engineer Corps. |
| I should like for him to receive the
appointment of 1st Lieut. and be made Assistant to this Commission. |
| I have thought it not improbable that,
if, after trial he should give entire satisfaction to the Bureau, he
might be found a suitable person as Commissioner. This however could
be an after consideration as we want an Assistant in any event. |
| Very respectfully |
| Your ob Servt |
| Chas. F. M. Garnett |
| Commissioner |