| Headqrs Richmond Va |
| 19 Mch '62 |
| |
| Maj. Gen. T. H. Holmes |
| Comdg &c Fredbg Va |
| |
| Gen., |
| I need not call yr attention to the
mischievous consequences that will arise, & the danger to life &
property that will ensue, by permitting anyone to interfere with the
movements of trains on the R. R. from Fredbg to this place
{Richmond, Fredericksburg & Potomac RR}.
You can understand that these shd be in conformity with fixed & well
known regulations as to time & place. The wants of the Govt at this time
require addl special trains, & the dangers of collision become
multiplied by a deviation from the regular system. All the operations of
the road shd be controlled by the Supt or other authorised officer of
the road, & all orders for transportation of every kind & the movement
of every train shd be directed through him. I understand that last
night, a Major of Militia detained a train 3 hours at Hanover Junction
to await the arrival of his Colo. & 6 men; which hazarded a collision
with any train that might have been on the road. I desire you to stop
all interference of this kind, & to order through the Supt of the road
or controlling officer, such service only as may be required or you deem
necessary for the public interest. |
| I am &c |
| R. E. Lee |
| Genl. Comdg |
|