| Headquarters Army of Northern Virginia |
| January 8, 1864 |
| |
| Hon. James A. Seddon |
| Secretary of War |
| Richmond, Va.
|
|
|
| I take the liberty of inclosing for your
consideration a letter received from Major Richards, of the
quartermaster's department, inclosing one to him from Mr. Whitcomb,
superintendent of the Virginia Central Railroad. Major Richards is
the officer stationed at Gordonsville, charged with the
transportation of supplies over the Central and Orange &
Alexandria Railroads to this army.
|
| When last in Richmond I had a
conversation with Mr. Whitcomb on the subject of transportation over
his road, and was led to believe that this year it would be attended
with no difficulty. He then expected to hire 500 hands on the 1st of
January, which would give him ample labor for all his purposes. It
seems he has been disappointed and anticipates greater trouble in
his operations than ever. The road is now barely able to furnish
limited transportation. If this is diminished it will be impossible
for me to keep the army in its present position, when the railroad
as well as country will be exposed to ravages of the enemy. The
company is able to pay the necessary labor, and it is its duty as
well as interest to do so. I have thought the subject of sufficient
importance to bring it to your attention. |
| I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, |
| R. E. Lee |
| General |
|