| C. S. A. War Dept. |
| Richmond May 27th 1863 |
| |
| Genl. S. G. French |
| Petersburg, Va. (to be forwarded) |
| |
| The engineer engaged in removing the
iron from Seaboard {& Roanoke} Railroad
reports that for want of troops no protection is afforded his
operations, and that he shall be compelled to withdraw. It is
important that this iron be obtained if practicable consistently
with necessary military operations, and I should be pleased if
protection could be afforded. |
| James A. Seddon |
| Secretary of War |
| |
| Sent by telegram |
|